Mycotoxins
Unfortunately, our furry friends aren’t as fussy as we are when it comes to food. Over the years owners have reported their pets eating anything from socks and rocks to mouldy food and rotting rubbish. But did you know there are certain kinds of fungi and mould that are harmful for our best mates? Mould […]
Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome (BOAS)
Pugs, Frenchies, Dogue de Bordeaux, Bulldogs, Bostons, Boxers, Persians… these are just some of the breeds that are part of what we call “brachycephalicsâ€. What this means is that they all have shortened snouts to give them that distinctive look so many find adorable! Unfortunately, this can come with some very unfortunate side effects which […]
Whelping
Frequently asked questions and answers How do I prepare myy dog for breeding? Questions to ask yourself first: Are all of her vaccinations, worming and flea control needs up to date? Do I have potential homes for the puppies/kittens? What will I do if I can’t find homes for all of them? Have I researched […]
Toys for Puppies and Dogs
When dogs are left at home alone for extended periods with lack of stimulation and exercise, they quickly get bored. Bored dogs can become destructive – as an attempt to amuse themselves, and as a behavioural problem. Providing your dog with toys can help prevent destructive behaviour, such as digging and chewing objects in your […]
Rat Bait
Caution with rat baits If you are trying to control rats, you need to do so with a little thought. Naturally you will want to ensure the safety of your children, pets and wildlife in your area. In addition, I hope that you would want to dispatch the rats as quickly and humanely as possible. […]
Puppy Toilet Training
Toilet training your new puppy When you think about it, it’s amazing that any pet learns house training manners at all. When your pet’s bowels say ‘Now!’, your pet has to put into motion several complex thought patterns; where to go, how to get there, and how to let its owner know if it needs […]
Puppy Training
You can train your pup to be a star pupil by using consistent commands and rewards for good behaviour, known as positive reinforcement. Punishment or reprimands may be required in some situations, but are best avoided by good training by the owner. Early socialisation, puppy pre-school, then ongoing obedience lessons will give you a wonderful, […]
Puppy Pointers
Night frights with new pups and getting some sleep, how do you do it? Do you ‘tough love’ the pup and force it to stay in the laundry or outside or do you ‘spoil the pup’ and let it sleep inside, knowing that’s not what you really want? Let’s look at it from the pup’s […]
Parvovirus
No dog or puppy should ever have to suffer this terrible debilitating disease. Get your puppies vaccinated at 6-8 weeks again at 12 weeks and then, which is just as important, followed up with their boosters. If you are buying a new puppy and it is over 8 weeks old ask for the first vaccination […]
Constipation
Constipation is when your dog has infrequent and difficult defecation, that is, having trouble doing his ‘twos’!. If constipation progresses to the point where no defecation occurs, this is referred to as constipation and, if left unattended, can be life threatening. There are many causes of constipation, and although initial treatment with enemas is often […]