Companion Life - Spring 2021

FREE PLEASE TAKE A COPY

SPRING 2021

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In this issue

> Understanding separation anxiety in dogs > Top tips for pet owners at Springtime > Q&A with TV Vet Dr Scott Miller > Preventing tick bites in dogs > Rabbit behaviour

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EDITOR’S COMMENT I’m delighted to present the Spring 2021 edition of Companion Life Magazine. Companion Life is a FREE magazine, which aims to offer pet owners information, news and advice. In this issue we look at separation anxiety in dogs and tips to help.

We also offer advice to pet owners for Spring with pets. As well as the latest news, we speak to TV Vet Dr Scott Miller about getting a puppy.

Feel free to get in touch with any features, news, pet products or even pictures of your own pets.

Laura Evans Editor

Companion Life Companion Life is a Free Magazine providing news, information, tips and advice for pet owners across the UK. Circulation: 30,000 copies of Companion Life are distributed to veterinary practices across the UK.

NEWS

Over a third of dog owners admit their pooch is overweight, study reveals

Of the 2,000 dog owners surveyed, 18% said their dog had put on weight due to extra treats, whilst 12% said their dog had put on weight as a result of going on less walks, which can be attributed to those who have been shielding.

A new study from Natural Instinct reveals that nearly half of dog owners have overindulged their pooches since the start of the pandemic.

Increased time at home has led to giving dogs extra treats, with 44% of respondents revealing they have fed their dog more treats every week, and 14% have been spoiling their dog daily.

The research shows that French Bulldog owners are the most likely to feed extra treats (70%), while owners of Springer Spaniels (52%) are the least likely to dish out tasty rewards.

provide care and rehabilitation for them prior to finding them new homes.

In January 2021, Dogs Trust rescued one Dachshund, two Labrador and two Springer Spaniel puppies who were all found hidden in a small cat carrier in the back of a van. The puppies were seized by the authorities at the Port of Dover, after being illegally transported into Britain from Eastern Europe before being cared for by Dogs Trust through the Pilot Scheme.

Editor: Laura Evans.

Editorial: editor@companionlife.co.uk Advertising/artwork: advertising@companionlife.co.uk

@CompanionLifeUK facebook.com/CompanionLifeMag instagram.com/companionlifemag

The club will be hosted by a vet and animal behaviourist and will include a weigh in, support on feeding, diet and fitness advice for members, and more.

Vet Richard Doyle of Wylie Vets alongside other canine experts, will be hosting free online sessions as part of the launch of the Natural Instinct ‘Fitness Furst’ diet club, for those looking for support and advice. To sign up pet owners should email fitnessfurst@naturalinstinct.com

Dogs Trust rescues 1,500th smuggled puppy through pilot scheme

Contact details: Companion Life, Barn 3, Somerford Business Court, Holmes Chapel Road, Congleton, Cheshire. CW12 4SN www.companionlife.co.uk

Companion Life is part of ‘WITH Marketing Ltd’, The contents within Companion Life is fully protected by copyright and none of the editorial or photographic matter may be reproduced in any form without prior consent of Companion Life. Every care is taken in the preparation of this magazine, but Companion Life, its distributors and WITH Marketing Ltd cannot be held responsible for the claims of advertisers nor for the accuracy of the contents, or any consequence thereof.

In a bid to help curb dog obesity this Spring, Natural Instinct is launching the ‘Fitness Furst’ Diet Club to provide expert opinion and advice to owners whose dogs need to ‘shred those extra doggy pounds’.

Dogs Trust is demanding the government to take urgent action to end puppy smuggling after rescuing the 1,500th smuggled puppy through its Puppy Pilot Scheme.

In just five years, Dogs Trust has rescued 1,500 puppies who were being illegally imported across UK borders, many in terrible conditions, with a potential street value of more than £3 million.

The Puppy Pilot Scheme was set up in 2015 to aid the interception of illegally imported puppies by APHA (Animal and Plant Health Agency) at the ports and

Paula Boyden, Veterinary Director at Dogs Trust said: “The 1500th puppy rehomed through the Puppy Pilot is a bittersweet milestone for us to reach. The scheme was originally set up on a trial basis in 2015, because there were not sufficient resources to care for the puppies being seized at the border. Five years on the need for our services is greater than ever as the demand for dogs during lockdown has further exacerbated the problem, and unfortunately, we know that the dogs we care for are just a small proportion of those that make it into the country illegally.

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nutravet launch Omega-3 joint support for cats and dogs

Omega-3s from fish oils, which have been scientifically proven to aid joint mobility by supporting the natural systems that control inflammation and helping aid blood flow to the joints.

Nutravet has introduced a new Omega-3 joint supplement to its veterinary exclusive range for cats and dogs.

Launched in addition to the highly successful Nutraquin+, Nutraquin includes high purity Omega-3s, meaning it’s ideal for milder cases. The benefits are generally noticeable within six weeks. Nutraquin contains a formula of high purity, refined

Commenting on the introduction of Nutraquin with Omega-3, Matthew Shaw, Managing Director at Nutravet said: “The Nutraquin range has been supporting pet’s joints for over 10 years and is the number one veterinary exclusive joint support product for dogs and cats in the UK & Ireland. The new Omega-3 product offers pet owners high strength fast acting support for dogs and cats while they grow” You can find your local authorised Nutraquin stockists at: www.nutravet.co.uk/nutraquin

Crufts 2021 is cancelled The Kennel Club has announced with deep regret that they have decided to cancel Crufts 2021, which was due to take place from 15 – 18 July.

This is owing to ongoing uncertainty due to the Covid-19 pandemic and in consideration for the health and safety of all its volunteers, judges, exhibitors, sponsors, trade stand holders, visitors and staff.

For many months, ongoing discussions have been taking place with the NEC and other parties in trying to find a way forward in making it possible to run this year’s show in a Covid-secure way.

Tom Mather, Crufts Chairman, said: “We are very disappointed that we have had to cancel Crufts for the first time since 1954, in what would have been its 130th anniversary year, and it is a decision we have not taken lightly. We have tried desperately hard to make this year’s show happen, including the decision we took last November to postpone the event to July. However, of course this was before we were hit by the devastating second wave of the pandemic. We look forward to welcoming everyone back to Crufts next year in its full glory from 10 – 13 March 2022.”

Forthglade launch limited edition recipe Forthglade has launched an extra special birthday meal to celebrate fifty years of making tasty recipes for canine companions.

The new-limited edition, Sardines & Haddock with Potato and Broccoli meal is made with fish landed in Devon and guaranteed to set tails wagging. Containing 75% Devon fish and packed full of vitamins, minerals and botanicals, the new recipe offers a great source of protein, nutrients and natural oils. The complete meal is free from junk or fillers and contains all the goodness a dog needs to stay happy and

healthy. It’s also grain free. The Sardines and Haddock meal is suitable for dogs aged 1 years plus and will be available in convenient 395g trays (RRP £1.45) or as a case of 7 trays (RRP £10.95). The new recipe will be stocked in all leading supermarkets, pet shops, online retailers and forthglade.com.

NEWS SNIPPETS The UK’s animal welfare bodies and veterinary professionals are calling for an end to the horrific and cruel canine trade of ear cropping.

Following an increase in demand for dogs with cropped ears, and a rise in celebrities and social media sites glamourising the trade, enough is enough.

The ‘trend’ to crop a dog’s ears is barbaric – it impacts the dogs health, behaviour and welfare. It is an incredibly tortuous and painful procedure for the dog. It is an unnecessary, agonizing mutilation with no welfare benefit or medical reasoning. The practice involves cutting off part of the ear flap, often without aesthesia or pain relief. The e-petition has now received 60,000 signatures – the aim is to achieve 100,000 to ensure this issue is considered for debate in Parliament and the legal loopholes are amended.

Animal charity, Mayhew has created a brand-new online advice hub with information and tips to help get ready to welcome a new cat or dog.

For over 135 years, Mayhew’s team of in-house experts have been there for dogs, cats and communities in need and the hub is aimed at being a ‘one stop shop’ for pet owners and prospective pet owners across the country.

For the first time, the years of veterinary, behavioural and legal advice and the breadth of Mayhew’s expertise will be fully searchable in one dedicated space, making it easier than ever for animal lovers to find an answer to any question they may have. www.themayhew.org

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ARTICLE

Understanding

SEPARATION ANXIETY IN DOGS Stress and anxiety in dogs can be caused by a number of reasons, including being left home alone. Being separated from their owner is one of the most common reasons for dogs to become anxious. We all love our dogs and enjoy nothing more than spending time with them. However much we’d like to spend 24 hours a day with our four-legged friends, it’s not possible.

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Separation anxiety in dogs describes a condition which a dog exhibits distress and behaviour problems when separated from its owner. Separation anxiety typically manifests within minutes of departure of the owner and it is not fully understood why some dogs suffer from this and other don’t. Some dogs if left home alone for a few hours can become nervous and this can be shown in a variety of ways. This includes, trembling, whining, destruction of property and sometimes aggression.

There are a number of reasons why your dog may have separation anxiety which include: • • • •

Lack of training Lack of socialisation Changes in the home/environment Fears about something inside the home

Dogs who have been in rescue or have been rehomed several times can sometimes struggle with being left, especially in the first few weeks of being rehomed. This is probably due to a variety of factors, including stress experienced while in kennels and learning to adapt to their new home.

Tips to help with separation anxiety Prepare in advance Get your dog used to you not being around by leaving the room for a while. Either close the door or use a stair gate. Build up the time you stay away and always return with a treat. Make sure other family members know to give them space to get them used to time alone.

Start a routine Start getting your pet into a routine for when you have to leave them. Get ready for work and leave your dog in one room as you go into another. Leave them with enough to keep them busy and keep checking on them to make sure they’re not getting stressed. Getting them used to this routine will help to reduce stress when you have to eventually leave the home. Reward good behaviour when you return to them.

Distractions Make sure that your dog has enough toys to play with, which would be a great distraction whilst you’re out.

Stuffed toys with treats are a good way to keep them busy and happy during the time you are away. You could also leave the TV or radio on for background noise.

Exercise Before you leave them alone, make sure your dog has had enough exercise. If you are going to be leaving them for a number of hours, take them for a long walk before doing so. This will help to get rid of excess energy and they may sleep whilst you’re out.

Safe zone Create a safe zone or den for your dog to retreat to if they are feeling extra

anxious. You could leave a jumper or t-shirt with your smell on for your dog, which is familiar to them. This will help to comfort them while you are gone.

Don’t discipline bad behaviour If your pet has misbehaved whilst you are out and caused damage or toileted in the house, don’t discipline them on your return as this could cause further anxiety. It could also lead to your dog worrying about your return home.

Pet proof your home If you don’t want your dog to have the run of the house whilst you are out, be sure to close doors and block off areas you don’t want them to go. Be sure to check the area/room they will be in for any hazards to be sure they are safe whilst on their own.

Ask someone to check on them If possible, ask a friend or family member to stop by and check on your dog, even if it’s for 10 minutes to allow them to go to the toilet outside.

Try natural supplements A range of natural pet health supplements are available from vets or pet shops to help reduce stress for your pet. Nutracalm from Nutravet is a natural fast acting supplement for reducing stress & anxiety.

If you are worried about your pet’s behaviour or health in general, you should speak to your vet who will be able to offer the best advice dependant on your pet’s age and breed.

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ADVICE

TOP TIPS for pet owners during Springtime As we step into a new season and the weather gets warmer and days get lighter, your cat or dog will be able to enjoy more time outside, in the garden and on walks.

Pets love nothing more than basking in the sun, exploring new smells and sights in the garden or on walks, however as with most seasons, Spring can come with a number of challenges and hazards to look out for.

During this time of year, it’s important to keep an eye on pets to ensure they stay safe and prevent any unwanted trips to the vets. Here are some tips to follow to help keep your pet safe and healthy during the Spring season: Cold water

Despite the weather being slightly milder, the water in lakes and streams will still be too cold for your pet. Don’t let your dog jump in, as the shock of the cold water could cause them to freeze up and struggle to swim or cause them to develop hypothermia.

Spring-cleaning

Be aware of household cleaning products and don’t leave them lying around the house for your pet to get. Commercial cleaning products, almost without exception, contain chemicals that are toxic to your dog or cat. To prevent any problems for your pet, you could try switching to non-toxic household cleaning products.

Vaccinations

Make sure that your pet’s vaccinations are up-todate to safeguard them

from Parvo or any other contagious diseases.

Warmer weather and more contact with other pets could encourage these types of diseases to spread, so be sure to keep your dog protected.

Allergies

Just like you, your pet may need support for dry, itchy or sensitive skin, which could be caused by grass, pollen or even plants. To prevent your pet from scratching all through Spring, speak to your vet early to lessen the severity and give early relief.

Grooming

Brush your cat and dog regularly to remove any excess hair that they will start to shed. This will also help to keep your pet’s coat free from dirt and distribute natural skin oils that help to make their coat shiny. Grooming your pet will also give you an opportunity to look out for fleas and ticks and

maintain a healthy coat and skin for your pet. It will also help to prevent fur balls from building up in your cat’s stomach from over-grooming.

immediately.

Flea prevention

Fleas can be an all year round problem for pets and owners, especially during cooler months in centrally heated homes.

Clean feet It’s important to keep During spring walks the weather might not always up-to-date with your pets be dry and with rain comes flea treatment throughout warmer months, especially mud. After your dog has been for a walk, be sure to as pets venture outside clean their paws to prevent more. the mud from drying and getting stuck between Exercise their toes and in their fur. If your dog has been particularly inactive during the winter season, make Garden hazards Be aware of hazards in the sure you ease them back garden for your pet. This into their exercise routine.

Start off slow to help includes slug pellets, as they are toxic to your pet rebuild muscle tone and could cause illness if before engaging in strenuous outdoor swallowed. Some spring activities. flowers are also toxic to pets and if swallowed If you’re worried about could cause your pet to your pet at any time, become unwell. These speak to your vet who is include, daffodils, tulips and crocuses. If you think best placed to mointor their health. that your cat or dog has eaten any of these, you should contact your vet

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PRODUCT SPOTLIGHT

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If you would like your product featured in a future edition please get in touch editor@companionlife.co.uk

In this edition, we highlight some pet products that we think our readers will love...

Skinner’s Field & Trial – hand baked dog treats Prices from £1.49 for a single 90g pouch Skinner’s Field & Trial Treats are hand-baked by real bakers, wholesome and full of goodness, all British-made with locally sourced ingredients where possible. The ingredients also come from a supplier who shares Skinner’s ethos and values for good nutrition, so you know your hard-working dog is only getting the good stuff. The range is ideal for motivating and rewarding your dog whilst supporting their health and wellbeing, in 100% recyclable, plastic free and compostable packaging.

Nutramega – for healthy skin and a glossy coat Prices from £15.99 for a box of 45 gel capsules.

Maintaining optimum skin and coat health for your pet is essential to ensure they lead a happy and healthy life. Nutramega has been specifically formulated to support the animal’s natural systems that control inflammation, in an easy to administer high strength gel capsule. Nutramega contains high quality Omega-3 fatty acids and Vitamin E, which naturally calms sensitive skin, soothes dry, flaky skin and reduces itching and scratching.

Scrumbles Softies - training treats Prices from £2.60 Scrumbles Softies Training Treats are the ultimutt guilt-free dog treat.

Perfect for using as a training reward, they’re baked to a soft texture to be easily broken apart and chewed.

True to all of Scrumbles range, the treats contain the tummy-soothing slippery elm for gut health and pretty poos. They’re also baked in eco-ovens in the UK and served in compostable bags to tread lightly on our planet.

Available in Plant Powered or Chicken & Duck flavour. www.scrumbles.co.uk

www.nutravet.co.uk/nutramega

www.skinners.co.uk

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ARTICLE

Preventing tick bites & Lyme Disease in dogs

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Spring is nearly here and summer close behind. Apart from wonderful sunny days, relaxing walks in the countryside, fields and forests, there is a hidden danger lurking in these idyllic places for your dogs, cats and yourself.

Ticks are a tiny enermy, just 3-5 mm in size, but can lead to major problems in pets and humans alike, here Dr Margit Gabriele Muller, leading vet and author details…

What is a tick?

Ticks are tiny blood parasites. In the UK and Europe, hard ticks, from the species Ixodes Ricinus, are mainly found. They are brown, black and reddish in colour. They suck blood from their hosts and can range from a pinpoint size up to 3-5mm once they have fully fed on blood. As they have eight legs, ticks belong to the arachnids, the family of spiders. Ticks require a host such as a pet or human to be able to multiply.

Where are ticks found?

Ticks are commonly found in areas with grass, leaf piles, shrubs, underbrush, trees, and in the wilderness.

In the UK, ticks are found all over the country, but the high-risk areas include Southern England and the Scottish Highlands.

How do ticks get transmitted?

Ticks are active when the temperatures start to rise.

They search for a potential warm-blooded victim as soon as the temperature is above 4ºC. They either lie in wait in grass or leaves to climb up the legs of their victim or fall from branches.

They love to bite their host in warm and moist body areas.

Bites are usually painless and therefore often go unnoticed. After ticks bite, they stay attached to the host’s body until they are

soaked full in blood. Once they have finished feeding, which might take up to 10 days, the ticks have reached their full size and detach themselves and simply fall off.

How to check for ticks?

It’s essential to check your pet’s skin after outdoor walks. In dogs and cats, it is advisable to run your hands down the pet’s body to see if you can feel small lumps, especially in the neck, ears, head, and feet.

How can you remove ticks?

You can buy special tick removal forceps in veterinary practices or in pet shops. It is important to grab the tick as close to the skin as possible and to pull straight upwards. The pressure on the forceps should be distributed evenly without bending, twisting or tearing the tick.

Recommended things like putting oil on the tick are not suitable and should not be performed.

After removing the tick, you must check that no parts of the head or mouth are left inside the skin as all parts must be removed completely. The bite must then be cleaned with either disinfectant or soap and water. The tick should be disposed properly by drenching it in alcohol and putting it in a sealed container.

What are the symptoms of Lyme disease and tick infestation in dogs and cats?

Dogs are more affected than cats. Symptoms usually develop within a week but can sometimes appear even months or years later and often no symptoms appear at all.

Symptoms include fever, lack of appetite, tiredness and lameness. The heart, kidneys, joints, and nervous system can also be affected. Although ticks bite as single parasites, if a In humans, long sleeves and dog or cat have lots of bites it can possibly lead to trousers that cover the anemia. A tick paralysis can arms and legs completely also occur which causes are a good way to avoid wobbling of the legs, heavy any skin contact for the ticks. Insect repellents with breathing, vomiting and salivation. at least 20% DEET (diethyltoluamide) that are Dr Margit Gabriele Muller’s used on the rest of the visible skin are a good way book Your Pet, Your Pill: 101 Inspirational Stories to deter these blood About How Pets Lead You parasites. to A Happy, Healthy and Successful Life is now What is Lyme Disease?

Black legged ticks from the available on Amazon. species Iodex that are infected with the bacteria Borrelia burgdorferi can spread Lyme Disease to humans. Moreover, ticks can also transmit other kind of infectious diseases such as Babesiosis, Ehrlichiosis and tularemia to pets and humans alike. Laboratory tests such as blood tests can be used to detect the presence of antibodies to Lyme disease.

How can ticks be prevented?

In dogs and cats, the best and most effective tick prevention is the year-long monthly treatment with a pipette of a special topical tick and flea prevention treatment. This is administered directly on the skin in the neck area. It is also advisable to avoid high risk areas and to not to go on adventures in deep scrubs and wilderness and to stay in the centre of pathways.

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Q&A

Q&A

With Dr Scott Miller

TV Vet & Barking Heads human ambassador

Australian born vet and author, Dr Scott is the resident Vet on ITV show, This Morning, giving advice to viewers in the studio and presenting live and recorded animal items from all around the UK and internationally. Natural pet-food brand, Barking Heads recently welcomed Dr Scott as their in-house expert and two-legged brand ambassador.

Here he answers our questions about what to consider before getting a puppy and when to introduce a natural diet…

What’s your favourite thing about dogs and why do you think they make such great companions?

Dogs are a constant source of unconditional love, and in these uncertain times they have been a saviour for many. Our canines are always happy to see us, want to drag us out on walks and are keen to keep us company even when we aren’t feeling great, having the special gift of being entertaining and joyful companions no matter what might be happening around them.

Why do you think we have seen an increase in puppy buying during each lockdown?

Many people are working from home at the moment, seeing lockdown as the opportunity to bring a new canine companion into their lives and enjoy the love and companionship they bring.

The concern is when life returns to normal and will new pet parents have time for their new furry family member at that point and how will pets react to not having their beloved owner around 24/7.

What should people consider before getting a puppy?

The four things to consider before getting a puppy include the COST of owning a puppy (not just the purchase price, but also vet bills, good quality food etc), TIME (do you have enough time to spend with and train your puppy), your HOME (is it suitable for a puppy, and if so what breed) and ENERGY levels (be sure to research the breed you choose to ensure that they don’t need more exercise then you are honestly willing or able to provide).

When should you first introduce your puppy to a natural diet?

Puppy’s like babies have sensitive stomachs but need a completely balanced diets to grow strong and healthy, so it’s always best to keep protein sources consistent for the formative stages of their life. Adult dogs enjoy trying different types of meat protein and other foods, but this should always be done slowly, carefully and with caution to ensure any diet is completely balanced, monitoring your pooch’s daily bowel movements to ensure a change in food is not causing gastro-intestinal

upset. Many pet parents are interested in reducing the meat protein content of their diets for their own health and the health of the planet, and consider doing the same when it comes to feeding their beloved pooch. That’s why Barking Heads have developed the amazing and completely balanced Plant Powered Pooches, to support pet parents who want to safely share an occasional ‘Meat Free Monday’ with their dog.

How important is good nutrition for your puppy/ dog?

Good nutrition is of utmost important for your dog. ‘You are what you eat’ also applies to our canine companions, and with great strides made to improve the quality of canine diets and nutrition has come a massive improvement in dogs health and longevity, surely what every pet parent wants for their pooch.

What are your top 3 tips for keeping your dog in general good heath?

1. Good quality food…you can’t expect your dog to be healthy, happy and contented without the great love of their life, food.

Barking Heads put so much love and science into their

diets that it shows in the incredible health and vitality of dogs that eat it.

2. Exercise is so important for a dog as they expel energy, investigate the local area and socialise with other canines and people, keeping them healthy both of mind and body.

3. Having a good relationship with your vet…

Vets are animal lovers who are dedicated to the health and wellbeing of animals, so developing a strong and trusting relationship with your vet is crucial to ensure your dog gets the best care and treatment when they need it.

What is your favourite thing about working with animals?

They all have their own distinctive personalities, come in all shapes, sizes and colours and are a source of constant inspiration and love.

For more information on Barking Heads and their natural pet food and treat range, visit www. barkingheads.co.uk.

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ADVICE FROM THE EXPERT

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Rabbit Behaviour

By Emma Purnell, RVN Cert.Nut.

Rabbits are unlike our cat If a rabbit is alert they will and dog pets, they are a also have their ears raised, prey species which means but less directional and their body language and more directly upwards to behaviour can be very scan for any predators. different and seem unusual. Their ears can move They are quiet animals so separately, they can fix one reading their body ear on a specific sound and language and ear position continue to scan with the can give us an insight into other. They often sit in a how they feel. more alert posture, legs An interested rabbit will underneath the body ready generally have ears up and to run away from danger if tilted towards anything needed. There will be more they are listening to. tension in the body and this Relaxed rabbits sitting can be seen. It is often seen generally hold their ears at if they are introduced to a around 45 degrees to their new area. If you are seeing body but can lie them flat this regularly in your rabbit along their back, the key is it is worth making sure they that their body will remain have areas within their relaxed. Lop eared rabbits environment where they cannot lift their ears but can feel safe and try to find you can see the rotation at out the reason they feel the base. If sitting at rest anxious. They may they can be in any position ‘periscope’, standing up on from legs tucked under their back legs to increase them but with their posture their field of vision and relaxed. A very relaxed and their nose may twitch more feeling safe rabbit will rapidly as they take in any extend legs out either smells. behind them or even just lie Animals in pain have flat out on their sides – this certain behaviours we can ‘dead bunny flop’ can look look out for but they can be pretty scary if you find fairly subtle, as a prey them like this but they will animal showing weakness behave as normal if disturbed. This extension of can risk them being their back legs is important, pre-dated. If they have rabbits are prey species and stomach pain they will often press their stomach into the by doing this they are floor, often with their legs a putting themselves in a position where it will take little further behind than some time to get up. They normal to allow for the stomach pressing. Being must feel safe to do this. hunched, reduction in Rabbits will sometimes exploring and exercising, present themselves to an owner or another rabbit by tooth grinding and any changes to eating, lowering their chest and grooming or toileting can lying their head on the also be signs of an issue. If floor. This is done to get the owner or other rabbit you see any of these signs to groom them and is often you should see a vet immediately. the rabbit higher in the Very scared or aggressive hierarchy that will do this – the more submissive rabbit rabbits will lie their ears flat in a similar position to very will groom the more relaxed rabbits, making it dominant.

important to view the body language as a whole. Unlike a relaxed rabbit, the scared or aggressive rabbit will be very tense, make themselves look as small as possible, have all 4 legs tight underneath them ready to attack or run away and will be low to the ground. A rabbit likely to attack will raise and stiffen its tail, a common response if cornered and they feel they have no other option.

If your rabbit is showing fearful behaviours then it is important they have a safe place to feel secure. A dark, quiet shelter for them to be able to run into can make them feel more secure, this is particularly important in outside runs as they are often made of mesh, making the rabbit feel very exposed. Shelters should have at least two exits, stopping them from feeling trapped. Handling should be minimal, most rabbits are not keen on being picked up at the best of times and handling a frightened rabbit will likely lead to you being scratched or bitten. If you must pick them up and move them, using a towel to ensure they are safe and secure and to protect yourself

from injury is advised.

Avoid approaching them

from above, approach them from the side where they are less likely to be

surprised and lash out. Be aware they may kick out

and if not handled properly

they can do serious damage to their spine – this can be fatal.

Rabbits can make

wonderful pets, but a good understanding of their

behaviour and how to make them feel secure is essential to ensure they are as happy as we can make them.

Emma qualified as a Veterinary Nurse in 2008 and works for Nutravet (UK) Ltd. She has a BSc in Zoology with Animal Ecology and an MSc in Ecology, helping to fuel her interest in more exotic species. She has a particular love of small furries and has a grade A distinction in Canine and Feline Clinical Nutrition (CertNut).

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