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Ask LINDA

Woman’s vet, Linda Simon, answers your pet problems

MY YORKIE HAS BEEN DIAGNOSED WITH CUSHING’S – WHAT IS IT?

Cushing’s disease, or hyperadrenocorticism, is rarely seen in pet cats but is diagnosed quite frequently in dogs that are middle-aged or older. Certain breeds are aff ected more often, such as the Yorkshire terrier, poodle and dachshund. Basically, Cushing’s is the overproduction of the stress hormone cortisol. It’s typically caused by a benign growth within the pituitary gland of the brain. Less often, there’s a tumour of the adrenal gland. A fi nal potential cause would be a reaction to prolonged corticosteroid medication. Raised cortisol levels result in a dog that is excessively thirsty and always hungry. Dogs may also develop fur and skin complaints and a pot belly, and many will begin to pant excessively. Signs can come on slowly, so it is not always obvious to an owner that their dog is unwell. These symptoms are not unique to Cushing’s disease, so it’s important to run tests before assuming a diagnosis. Initially, vets will do some basic blood and urine work, followed by more specifi c blood tests for confi rmation. Once a diagnosis has been reached, treatment can begin. The vast majority are managed with daily tablets that get the disease under control quickly. Regular check-ups and blood tests ensure dogs are responding well. Treatment is lifelong, and most dogs go on to live relatively normal lives.

Are gerbils a good pet for children? G erbils are fascinating creatures that make wonderful pets for children and adults alike. Not only are they intelligent and curious, many enjoy interacting with people and can form very close bonds with them. Unlike hamsters, they do not have cheek pouches, so they will hoard their food instead. In the wild, they would keep these stores in various locations within their burrows. As these little ones originated in the desert (in places such as Mongolia and Algeria) they can withstand quite warm weather and have adapted to produce less urine, in order to store water. Gerbils are very sociable –they enjoy the companionship of other gerbils, and would naturally live in large groups of 10 or more. In act, keeping a gerbil lone is not advised, nd all should live with t least one friend. These little creatures make wonderful pets ‘GERBILS ARE VERY SOCIABLE’

Certain dog breeds are more likely to develop the disease

ARE RAWHIDE TREATS SAFE TO GIVE MY COCKER SPANIEL?

R

awhide bones and treats are made from the hide of animals such as cows and horses, fl avoured to

make them more appealing. They can

help keep teeth clean and provide

hours of chewing contentment. While

many dogs will go their whole life

eating rawhide without experiencing

any issues, this is not always the case.

Some dogs may experience choking,

a gut impaction or constipation,

especially if they bite the chew up into

PHOTOS: GETTY large pieces and swallow them whole. It’s advised that chewing is supervised to ensure dogs are gnawing on the treats rather than eating big bits. For sensitive dogs that get upset stomachs, it’s best to steer clear altogether.

Expert solutions for your sex and relationship dilemmas Ask SUSAN

Our height diff erence is a problem Q My new partner is a strapping 6ft 2in, I’m a tiny 5ft 1in. This wasn’t a problem at fi rst as we were simply cuddling. But now we’re getting down to the serious business of intercourse, the only really easy sexual position is side by side, and we’re getting bored with that. Can you suggest other moves to help us bridge the gap? Susan says A Hop on top! Whether you face him or have your back to him, your height won’t be an issue. Or, lie with your pelvis at the edge of the bed while he kneels or stands. Be a little adventurous and sit on a stool or counter with your legs round his waist.

CAN MEN FAKE AN ORGASM? Q I’ve noticed that my boyfriend doesn’t seem to be ejaculating when he climaxes. At least, there’s no liquid when he comes, though all the other signs are there that he’s enjoying himself. Is there something wrong – or is he faking it?

Susan says A Research suggests that 58% of men have faked orgasm at some time, usually because they feel embarrassed about taking a long time to climax. But your man could be ill, or a medication he’s taking could be aff ecting his sperm. So have an honest discussion about it. If he’s faking it, reassure him that he doesn’t need to do that to impress you. If he’s not faking, encourage him to see his GP.

How can I give her a great massage? Q We have a truly wonderful relationship both in bed and out. But my girlfriend keeps talking about how her last partner used to give her a relaxing massage before they had sex. I want to oblige, but I’ve never even tried massage, and am nervous that I won’t match up to what she’s had before. I’d be really grateful for any tips on how I can learn to massage brilliantly.

Susan says A There are lots of YouTube videos on delivering massage. So watch one together, with your girlfriend telling you which moves she’d prefer and which she wouldn’t like. Then get her to massage you, so you experience the style she prefers. When your turn comes to deliver, begin with a few ‘rehearsals’ that don’t lead on to sex, so you can get her feedback. Finally, try out various moves even if they’re diff erent to what she’s used to. With time, you’ll be even better than he was!

HAVE WE MISSED THE BOAT? Q My husband and I met through our local church, and agreed that because of our religious beliefs, we wouldn’t make love before getting married. Neither of us are youngsters; we’ve both been widowed for a while, and so we were nervous. On our wedding night we talked and cuddled, but then went to sleep. Now, eight months later, we love each other more than ever but still haven’t had sex. Is it too late to start?

Susan says A It’s never too late. Begin slowly –hold hands, kiss, snuggle up and become comfortable with simple physical closeness. Then talk things through, share your fears, regain your confi dence. But also, don’t think you absolutely must make love. Create a marriage that’s right for you, happy and fulfi lled whether with passion or without. Sex is not compulsory.

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THREE DAYS OF VALENTINE’S FUN

For 72 hours before Valentine’s, agree with your partner not to have intercourse. Then make those three days a real tease –leading to a glorious sex session.

12 February Today, send each other naughty text messages and leave post-it notes saying what you’ll do to each other on 14th. At night, talk dirty and spin fantasies. But no body contact is allowed –not even in bed.

13 February Today, touch and kiss but nothing more. At night give each other a naked massage, or perhaps shower together but with no genital contact. Then watch a movie that turns you both on.

14 February Today is the day! Firstly, each of you specifi es your three favourite sexual activities. Then take it in turns to deliver those to each other, with the end result being an amazing climax for both of you.