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Dogs Practical, dependable advice for all dog lovers

MONTHLY ‘DOG’ MARTIN CLUNES

and his Buckham Fair furry friends

CRUNCH TIME

16 PAGES

your

questions answered by our experts November 2017 £3.99

No quibble with kibble

SNIFFING OUT LOST SOULS Dogs who rescue people

TIME TO BRUSH UP?

‘Pawtrait’ masterclass

WALES SPOTTING!

Dog-friendly Pembrokeshire beaches

POCKET MONEY-SAVING IDEA Turn cast-offs into toys

SUE WILLIAMS WALKS THE LINE to get a reliable recall

Can we match you with the perfect pet?

THE DOG FINDER

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ROCKET SCIENCE What to do when it’s banging

22/09/2017 15:05

#WhoNeedsWho

Benji and Juno are part of our little pack It didn’t take long for this adorable doggie duo to find a wonderful new home with Glenn and Shaun in North West London. Glenn said: “One Sunday, on the way to dinner at a friend’s, we called into Battersea. Five hours and one cancelled dinner party later, we brought home two perfect, loving dogs. They’ve given us a new perspective on life and make us laugh every day. We, in turn, have provided a safe and loving home. They’ve adopted us, really, as much as we’ve adopted them.”

Meet your new best friend at

battersea.org.uk

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November 2017

It’s hard to believe we’re already into autumn. Not only is this one of my favourite times of year, but pets seem to love it too. With the cooler temperatures, our dogs have much more energy again, and they really seem to relish their walks in the woods or park, with all the new and interesting autumnal smells. There’s nothing they like better than sniffing and snuffling through a big pile of fallen leaves and chasing them as they scatter everywhere. Even a horse I used to ride would always make a beeline for the dried leaves in the gutter, apparently enjoying the sound and feel of them as he kicked his way through! But autumn also brings its problems – particularly for those of us with dogs who hate the light flashes, loud bangs, high-pitched screeches, and general unpredictability of bonfire night. These days it’s no longer over in a flash (sorry…); Guy Fawkes night often gets combined with Halloween into a week-long event, and, depending on where you live, it might be topped by Eid and Diwali, and tailed by the bangs and whizzes of Christmas and New Year. It’s a wonder our pets aren’t nervous wrecks for weeks on end. It’s no joke trying to keep one anxious dog calm

Get in touch

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EDITOR Gill Shaw gill.s@dogsmonthly.co.uk

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at home, so imagine what it must be like for the tireless volunteers at the country’s rescue centres, particularly those based in urban areas, attempting to keep several dozen dogs quiet and relaxed in their kennels and doing their best to stop one dog setting off a chain reaction among the others. So, for our fireworks special (see p10), we asked several rehoming charities for their top tips for bonfire night, and to suggest some products that might help. If there are any other methods, ideas, or remedies you’ve found helpful over the years, or if you simply want to share your experiences of firework fears, do get in touch. Email gill.s@dogsmonthly.co.uk or write to us at the address below, and you could win a Tuffies bed for your dog to snuggle into. Until next month…

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CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Graham Smith DD. +44 (0) 1276 485 439 graham@petsubjects.co.uk

Gill Shaw, Editor

© 2017 Dogs Monthly/Pet Subjects Ltd All rights reserved by Pet Subjects Ltd. Reproduction in part or whole is forbidden without the consent of the publishers Unsolicited material: Although we do our best to take care of material submitted, Dogs Monthly cannot be held responsible for its safety. Contributors should retain a copy of what they send, and it’s advisable not to send precious originals. We regret that, due to the volume of mail received, not all correspondence can be acknowledged or answered personally.

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Personal views expressed in articles and letters are those of the contributor and not necessarily those of the publishers. We reserve the right to delete from any article material which we consider could lead to any breach of the law of libel. While we do not knowingly include erroneous information, the responsibility for accuracy lies with those who submitted the material.

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We reserve the right to refuse or alter adverts at our discretion. We expect all advertisers to provide an acceptable standard of service. Failure to do so will result in a refusal of future advertising. Dogs Monthly is published by Pet Subjects Ltd Printed in the UK by Warners (Midlands) plc. Distributed by Marketforce (UK) Ltd, 2nd Floor, 5 Churchill Place, Canary Wharf, London E14 5HU. Tel: 020 3148 3300; www.marketforce.co.uk ISSN 0266-7970

COVER DOG: Iris, a Golden Retriever, was one of our cover-dog runners-up at DogFest 2017. Owner Heather Shirley from Nuneaton, Warwickshire. COVER PHOTO: Penelope Malby, www.penelopemalbyphotography.co.uk CONTRIBUTORS THIS ISSUE: Bernard Bale, Debbie Bridges, John Burns, Anna Cherry, Tim Couzens, Kirsten Dillon, James Farrell, Graham Finch, Sue Gilmore, Claire Horton-Bussey, Nick Jones, Bill Lambert, Alison Logan, Trish Mahon, Yvonne Mackender, Paul Manktelow, Catherine Pickles, Rachael Sharpe, Stuart Simons, Emma Taylor, Sue Williams. SPECIAL THANKS TO: Gayle Eason, Luise Janniche, Faye Neal Photography. Keep your paw on the pulse with the latest news at www.dogsmonthly.co.uk Become a fan at facebook.com/ DogsMonthly

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Dogs MONTHLY

COMPETITION TERMS & CONDITIONS: The editor’s decision is final and no correspondence will be entered into. No cash alternative prize is available. Competition winners are picked at random. Sorry, prizes are restricted to UK entrants only and are not transferable. Dogs Monthly reserves the right to cancel a competition at any stage if, in its opinion, this is deemed necessary, or if circumstances arise outside its control. If third party companies fail to provide prizes, Dogs Monthly will not provide them or be held responsible. Dogs Monthly, its directors, employees or agents will not be held responsible for any injury caused by a product supplied by a third party. Dogs Monthly reserves the right to disqualify any entries that breach these rules. To obtain a list of competition winners, please send a request in writing, with an SAE, at least seven days after the competition closing date. Sorry, prizes, giveaways and subscription gifts are restricted to the UK only.

November 2017 | 3

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November 2017

Contents

Training &behaviour

K9 Queries ● Our FREE service for readers! Your canine problems solved. Starts on p79

Breeds &profiles

Health &welfare ● 10 Firework frenzy Top tips from rescue centres on how to cope with bonfire night.

● 68 Dog finder Our panel of experts suggest possible doggie matches for reader Chris.

● 16 Channel your inner artist Step-by-step guide to creating a portrait of your dog.

38 Painful truths When the kindest and most sensible decision may be to rehome your dog…

● 22 The seekers Staffordshire Search and Rescue’s vital volunteers.

42 Let’s play! Turn essential training into one big game.

● 58 Crunch time Feeding a dry food diet.

46 Secret diary of a dog trainer Our undercover trainer reveals the truth of their trade.

Regular features

● 32 ‘Dog’ Martin Actor Martin Clunes on loving dogs, loving life, and founding Buckham Fair. ● 34 Natural born winners Meet the rescue dogs competing at this year’s Buckham Fair show.

4 | November 2017

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Silken Windhound

● 28 Coast with the most A dog-friendly holiday in Pembrokeshire.

● 50 Ready, steady, recall Teach a sound recall away from other dogs.

● 56 Make a tough turtle toy New life for old jeans. 66 Book club Dog titles reviewed and copies to win!

76 “Our stunning girl” Meet our next nominees for the HiLife ‘Best friends’ Trophy 2017 – and find out how you and your dog could be next.

6 Dogs Now Latest dog news. 64 Mailbox This month’s postbag. 54 Subscribe to Dogs Monthly... ...and get a free Mikki grooming kit for your dog. 98 Tail end Molly’s latest exploits.

Border Collie

Dogs &people

●●●●●● = on the cover

Our promise to you...

Every month we will bring you down-toearth, practical advice and ideas that are achievable now and relevant to you and your dog. www.dogsmonthly.co.uk

22/09/2017 15:07

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News

Dogs now

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Find out what’s happening in the canine world

Dyed dogs

Photo © Julia Claxton

“A magical day”

6 | November 2017

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PUP AID As a dog is meant to share your life for at least a decade, you’d think a potential puppy buyer would give the matter much thought before taking a puppy home – certainly far more than they might give to buying a new pair of shoes. Sadly, damning research by the Kennel Club (KC) shows this isn’t the case, and impulsive puppy buying is a widespread problem. Of those people interviewed by the KC for its survey, 20 per cent admitted they spent no time at all researching their puppy, while only eight per cent said they would buy a pair of shoes completely on impulse. This careless attitude towards puppy buying is a gold mine to puppy farmers and smugglers, who take full advantage, keeping the terrible conditions in which puppies are bred hidden behind a reassuring facade of third-party sellers, such as pet shops and websites. Pup Aid was created to change this sad state of affairs by raising awareness about puppy farming, and the annual event it holds each September in Primrose Hill, London, has grown year on year. “It was a magical day,” says Pup Aid’s founder, TV vet Marc Abraham, about this year’s event. “This is the sixth Pup Aid in Primrose Hill, and the biggest and best of all of them so far. There were so many people having a good time with their dogs and so many celebrities, like Peter Egan and Sue Perkins, willing to lend their faces and voices to the victims of this cruel business. Our sponsors were amazing too, allowing us to keep this event free for everybody.” It was a fun day out for humans and dogs alike, but Pup Aid’s mission couldn’t be more serious. “We’ll keep working tirelessly to arm potential puppy buyers with the knowledge they need to avoid fuelling puppy farming – and, most of all, we’ll keep lobbying to make it illegal to sell puppies through a third party,” says Marc. “They are the front behind which puppy farmers can hide their cruelty. Taking them out of the equation would deal a terrible blow to their business, and it would be the first step to wiping it out entirely.”

Peter Egan (centre) and Sir Tony Robinson (right) were among the celebrity supporters at Pup Aid on 2 September.

POLLUTION Stray dogs on the streets of Navi Mumbai in western India have been spotted wandering around with light blue fur. Animal welfare activists claim the blue tint is linked to companies dumping industrial waste into a nearby river where the animals drink and swim. Animal protection officers have urged officials to take action against companies dumping chemicals into the Kasadi River, which has already been deemed unfit for human consumption. Local activist Aarti Chauhan has filed a complaint with the Maharashtra Pollution Control Board (MPCB). “It was shocking to see how the dogs’ white fur had turned completely blue,” he said. “We have spotted five such dogs here and have asked the pollution control board to act against such industries.” MPCB officials say it is illegal to release dyes into the water and they are investigating the matter. The officer in charge said a notice has been issued to the company concerned, and reports suggest it has since been closed down. An animal welfare agency managed to capture one of the dogs and wash off some of the blue dye. The group concluded the animal seemed otherwise unharmed. The case is reminiscent of that of a green cat who appeared in the Black Sea resort of Varna in Bulgaria three years ago. The cat had been sleeping at night on an abandoned heap of green paint. www.dogsmonthly.co.uk

22/09/17 11:31

Snippets

Worrying link ANIMAL CRUELTY A report released by the Centre for Crime Prevention is calling on the government to review the length of prison sentences for animal cruelty, highlighting the link between cruelty to animals and other offences, including violence against people. According to the report, since 2005 there were 13,835 offences committed by those who had “a previous conviction or caution for animal cruelty offences”. This includes 1,437 violent offences, including 16 murders; 202 sexual offences; 97 cases of cruelty or neglect against children; 175 robberies and 5,557 thefts. Three out of four criminals convicted of animal cruelty offences already had at least one previous conviction or caution; about half had at least four previous convictions or cautions, and one in four had 10. The Centre for Crime Prevention recommends the creation of a register of animal cruelty offenders so that repeat offenders can be better monitored. A statement issued by the organisation says, “This report from the Centre for Crime Prevention reveals that those convicted of cruelty to animals in recent years had in the vast majority of cases already been convicted of other offences. They went on to commit crimes including robbery, theft, the rape and neglect of children, and murder. “Despite the seriousness of animal cruelty offences and the evidence of strong links to other crimes, serious penalties are vanishingly rare, with more than 92 per cent of those found guilty avoiding prison.” The report makes several recommendations – the main one being a toughening of penalties for animal cruelty. It echoes the views of Battersea Dogs and Cats Home, which earlier this year called for an increase in the maximum sentence for animal cruelty offences to five years, as opposed to the current six months. Battersea’s chief executive, Claire Horton, said, “We need to recognise that animal cruelty can escalate into even more serious offences, and so we must give our courts the powers to sentence accordingly. I would urge more organisations to support Battersea’s call for five-year sentences for animal cruelty, so the punishment really does fit the crime.” Campaigners were thrilled by the recent Scottish government announcement that it intends to introduce tougher sentences for animal abusers, increasing the maximum prison sentence for the worst cases of animal cruelty to five years. The current limit is only one year, one of the lowest in Europe – but still twice the amount of time the worst offenders can receive in England and Wales.

As Hurricane Harvey battered Texas, many fled their flooding homes with their pets to seek shelter. However, when the Parker family found a room at a Holiday Inn Express, they were told their dogs were not allowed inside, hurricane or no. The dogs had to spend two nights in the family’s car before the Parkers located more suitable accomodation elsewhere. A Holiday Inn Express spokesperson has since apologised to the family, saying they have made donations towards helping pets affected by the hurricane, and would look into what happened.

Meg drops in BLUE CROSS Staff and dogs at the Blue Cross Suffolk rescue centre near Ipswich recently welcomed author Meg Rosoff to meet some of their rescue dogs, including Dudley McTavish, a seven-year-old Jack Russell Terrier cross named after the canine star of Meg’s latest book. Meg is a prolific and successful writer: her first novel, How I Live Now, won the Guardian Children’s Fiction Prize and the Printz Award in the US, and her six subsequent novels have been awarded or shortlisted for various awards. Good Dog McTavish is the tale of a special rescue dog who becomes the rescuer when his new family finds itself going through a rough spot. Meg donated royalties from the tale to Blue Cross. Clare Williamson, supervisor at the Blue Cross Suffolk centre, said, “Pets change our lives in so many ways, just as Meg’s latest book shows. We are delighted to welcome Meg to meet the little namesake McTavish in our care, and show her how her wonderful support helps our pets in need. “Paws crossed our own little wonder rescue dog will have his own family to look after, just like in the wonderful story that is supporting us.”

〈

If you love both Halloween and dogs, head to the ‘Halloween Howl’ at Priory Park in Reigate, Surrey, on Sunday 29 October. The sponsored 3km or 5km dog walk will raise money for The Children’s Trust charity, which helps children with brain injuries. Two- and four-legged participants can also take part in the costume competition, and a post-walk dog show. Entry costs £15 and there is a minimum sponsorship target of £50. To register, visit www.thechildrens trust.org.uk/halloween-howl-walk-2017 www.dogsmonthly.co.uk

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November 2017 | 7

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News

Snippets

Purple Poppy Campaign

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FUNDRAISING When Murphy, a Siberian Husky, went missing (most likely stolen), in December 2014, his family launched a huge social media campaign to find him, and Murphy was happily reunited with his family three months later. However, that wasn’t the end of the story. In June 2016, Murphy’s Army became a registered charity that helps reunite stolen and lost animals with their owners and raises awareness about pet theft. Now Murphy’s Army has launched the Purple Poppy Campaign, encouraging members of the public to remember animals lost in the line of duty, and ensure that their loyalty and courage is not forgotten. Andy Smith, founder of Murphy’s Army, says, “As an animal charity, we strongly believe that animals lost while serving should be remembered. We want to acknowledge the sacrifices that they have made, and continue to make, and ensure they are not forgotten.” The campaign, which has gained the support of celebrities such as David Essex (above left), Arlene Philips (above right), Ben Fogle and Will Mellor, has so far raised nearly £2,500. The funds raised will go to Fireside K9, a new charity that helps retired police dogs in West Yorkshire enjoy their golden years. The choice was inspired by Police Dog Finn, who was stabbed whilst on duty, but lived on to inspire a fight for better legal protection for police dogs. Purple poppies – for yourself or for your dog’s collar – cost £3 (including p&p) from www.murphysarmy.org

Chihuahua fest! WORLD RECORD Over 900 of the world's tiniest dogs gathered in August at Gerrards Cross, Buckinghamshire, for the second Fest of Chihuahua – the biggest-ever gathering of Chihuahuas in the UK. But these little dogs weren’t just there to look cute; they had gathered with their owners to smash the Guinness World Record for the world’s largest ‘doga’ (dog yoga) session, led by doga trainer Mahny and her dog, Robbie, who appeared on Britain’s Got Talent. Organiser of the event, Haus of Chihuahua, is confident that with over 300 doghuman pairs participating, they have broken the previous record of 275 set in China, and are awaiting an official response from Guinness World Records. Fest of Chihuahua founder Rachel Louise Monk said, “As a nation we are known for being dog crazy. Chihuahuas are rapidly becoming one of the country’s most popular breeds because of the huge character they carry in their tiny frames. Giving them their own festival just seemed a natural thing to do and we can’t wait until our Christmas event.” 8 | November 2017

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Duncan Lou Who, the twolegged Boxer, has defied many odds in his life. Born with fused back legs that eventually had to be removed, he now gallops around on only his front legs in an amazing balancing act. He now has another achievement: surviving a serious car crash on a road trip from Yellowstone National Park to Island Park, and a night alone in an area inhabited by wolves and bears. The twolegged wonder was found the next day, three miles from the site of the crash, with only a few cuts.

Digging with Dogs ACTIVITIES Both gardening and spending time with dogs have been proven to be beneficial for many people, including those with dementia, so why not bring the two together? Dogs Trust Ilfracombe and Age UK Devon have joined forces to launch Digging with Dogs, a gardening project aimed at people living with early-stage dementia and their carers. Launched this summer, the project allows people with dementia to spend time with homeless dogs while gardening at Dogs Trust’s rehoming centre in West Down. Sonya Webb, a community activities coordinator at Age UK Devon, said, “Gardening and dog walking provide a unique opportunity for people living with dementia to help them stay active in later life, and provide them with the social benefit of meeting new people and sharing an activity with others.” With designated ‘dementia friends’ staff to assist, participants have enjoyed both the gardening activities and the dogs’ company. They have contributed to creating hanging baskets and a sensory garden for the dogs to enjoy as they wait for their forever homes. Elise Watson, rehoming centre manager at Dogs Trust Ilfracombe, said, “We are delighted to be able to work together with Age UK Devon in this way. It was really important to us that we were able to support the new volunteers as best as possible, so we now have staff who are able to better understand dementia and what it might be like to live with it, meaning they can be more empathetic to those taking part.”

www.dogsmonthly.co.uk

22/09/17 11:32

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0800 612 4655 25/09/2017 16:50

Health &welfare

Firework frenzy Once just a single evening, ‘bonfire night’ now seems to last days or weeks, causing huge amounts of stress to dogs and owners alike. We asked the experts for their tried and tested methods of keeping pets calm…

ovember is approaching, and with it the dreaded fireworks season. Some dogs are unfazed by the sudden bangs, high-pitched whooshes and blinding flashes going off after dark, but many others are downright terrified. Reactions may vary – some pets 10 | November 2017

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start trembling and refuse to move, others bolt off or begin to search for a hiding place – and the experience isn’t only stressful for dogs. Every year, owners reach their wits’ end, looking for ways to soothe their pets. It’s often a greater challenge if you own several pets – after all, it only takes one

terrified animal to rile the rest – but what’s it like when you have dozens of dogs to look after? Dogs Monthly asked some of the UK’s major animal welfare charities to share their secrets, and tell us what steps they take in order to keep the dogs in their care as calm and comfortable as possible… www.dogsmonthly.co.uk

22/09/2017 09:32

Mayhew recommends…

〉

plug-in and collar 〈 Adaptil www.adaptil.com/uk

〈 ThunderShirt www.thundershirt.co.uk

〉

Activity toys www.purrfectlyyappy.com/ collections/dog-toys

Corgi. Photo posed by models

Tanya Madden, Mayhew deputy head of animal welfare

e try to keep the dogs at our home calm by turning their TVs on in their kennels to drown out the bright lights and loud noises of the fireworks outside. We give them plenty of activity balls, toys and chews as a distraction, too. We also use Pet Remedy sprays, Adaptil plug-ins, and Adaptil collars to destress them, and we add a few drops of lavender oil to pouches hanging in the kennels. These sprays release calming pheromones into the air to help comfort and reassure the dogs in our care. We also have ThunderShirts, which help to calm the dogs. www.dogsmonthly.co.uk

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Pet Remedy spray and plug-in www.petremedy.co.uk

〉 November 2017 | 11

22/09/2017 09:33

Photo © Dogs Trust

〈

We make sure the dogs are well exercised and have had a toilet break before the fireworks tend to start. We also feed them before the celebrations begin, as they might not want to eat anything if they become unsettled and stressed. We advise all owners to make sure their pet is microchipped, as this will give you a greater chance of being reunited should they escape in panic. Mayhew’s Community Vet Clinic offers a low-cost microchipping service; please get in touch with us to book an appointment.

Josie Cox, Dogs Trust vet

housands of families will be enjoying annual fireworks displays on and around Guy Fawkes night, but as 5 November approaches, dog owners will be preparing for one of the most stressful times of year. Dogs don’t understand that fireworks are part of our celebrations; for them they are sudden, unpredictable, bright and very loud, so it’s not surprising that so many become scared. Dogs Trust does its best every day of the year to keep dogs relaxed, but it’s particularly difficult when fireworks start, 12 | November 2017

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so it’s important we understand each dog to know how best to help them. For some dogs, this might be building dens where they feel safe, playing classical music to mask the sounds, or being with people. Although a fear of fireworks is very common in dogs, their reactions can vary. Some might want to hide, and if that’s the case, we recommend creating a safe enclosed area – a ‘den’ – in the home where they can retreat. Others will go to their owners for reassurance, and will benefit from sitting close by and having a stroke or a cuddle – whatever they are used to and enjoy. As fireworks are let off in neighbourhoods, not just at publicised public displays that can be prepared for, Dogs Trust advises that whilst there is a risk of them being set off: Walk your dog only in daylight hours, perhaps skipping the evening walk, and doing additional play and training inside. Try not to leave your dog alone when there is a risk of fireworks. Close the curtains and leave the TV or radio on. Seek advice from your vet – dogs with severe fears can be prescribed medication to reduce anxiety.

• • • •

your dog comes to you for • Ifreassurance during fireworks, it

•

is fine to give him attention for now, but you need to teach him a different way of coping in the future, to avoid him being more scared if fireworks go off when you’re not at home. If you have a confident canine who doesn’t appear concerned, it’s still a good idea to engage him in activities like simple training involving his favourite toy or treat, or perhaps give him a food activity toy to keep him distracted from the loud noises. Plan ahead for next year! If your dog is frightened, then start teaching him that the sound of fireworks are nothing to be scared of by gradually associating the noise with something nice.

Creating a safe den at home which your dog can retreat to, closing the curtains and putting the radio or TV on, and giving him a food activity toy will all help to distract your dog from fireworks and help him to feel safe

Rebecca Ashman, PDSA vet

hile there is little we can do to avoid fireworks at this time of year, there are steps that owners can take to help their pet cope with fireworks season. Clear signs that your pet is afraid and upset can include trembling and shaking, excessive barking, pacing and panting, hiding behind furniture and being www.dogsmonthly.co.uk

22/09/2017 09:33

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25/09/2017 19:01

Illustration by Kevin Brockbank

Battersea Dogs and Cats Home’s top tips

〈 unusually clingy. He may also refuse to eat, try to run away, or soil in the house. When pets hear fireworks, many prefer to hide in the corner of a room, or under a bed. Create a comfortable den in a hidden space, such as a wardrobe or cupboard, padded with pillows and blankets to help soundproof it, so your pet will have a secure and safe environment when it’s needed. Keeping the TV or radio on can also help mask the noise, and make sure all windows and cat flaps are closed. Building the den in advance gives pets time to get used to the space. Praise and reward him when he uses it, as this creates a positive connection, but don’t force him to use it if he’s found a preferred spot of his own. Reward any calm behaviour. If your dog needs your reassurance to feel safe, continue to comfort him. If you know in advance that your dog is worried by fireworks, speak to your vet or vet nurse for advice on a desensitisation programme. For more information from PDSA, visit www.goo.gl/6aQEse c 14 | November 2017

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Clear signs that your pet is afraid and upset can include trembling and shaking, excessive barking, pacing and panting, hiding behind furniture and being unusually clingy

Make sure your dog is microchipped – an up-to-date microchip and a collar and tag gives you the best chance of being reunited should he run off.

Escape-proof your house – keep doors and windows shut, and block off any dangerous or unsuitable areas your dog may get into.

Create a hiding place – a safe den for him to take refuge in. If he normally hides in a specific place, make sure he has access to this area and encourage him to use it with treats and toys. A table draped with a blanket makes an ideal place to hide. If your dog is accustomed to using a crate, cover it and leave it open with blankets inside.

Do not shut your dog in – it’s very important not to shut your dog in a confined area, as he could injure himself trying to escape. Allow access to all safe areas of the house.

Draw the curtains – to block out any sudden bursts of light. Keeping lights on in some rooms and leaving other rooms in darkness will enable your pet to choose where he feels safe.

Put on some music – to reduce the impact of the sudden sound of fireworks. Music with strong beats and basslines is ideal when played at a level your dog is happy with.

Walk your dog while it’s still light, and if he needs to be taken out again, try to wait until the fireworks have finished.

Act normally around your pets – dogs are very perceptive, and if they notice you’re behaving unusually (like following them around or being overly affectionate), they will sense something is up!

Let accidents go – if your dog becomes destructive, or goes to the toilet in the house, it is likely to be due to stress, and getting angry will only aggravate the situation. The best thing to do is ignore this for the night, tthen seek advice from a behaviourist or trainer.

Buy him a treat – wherever your dog decides to settle for the night, a long-lasting chew or toy can be a great distraction from the noise going on outside. There are also products on the market that can help pets cope with stressful events.

If your dog still suffers from anxiety during fireworks, it’s best to seek advice from a behaviourist or trainer, who can help with desensitising your dog to noises and flashes. Do not wait until near the event, however, as this process can take some time. www.dogsmonthly.co.uk

22/09/2017 09:34

win

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Dogs &people

Channel your inner artist

16 | November 2017

ART Nov.indd 16

www.dogsmonthly.co.uk

22/09/17 11:19

Dogs in art

Ever wanted to make a portrait of your dog? Our step-by-step tutorial by artist LISA ANN WATKINS shows you how to create fur using watercolour pencils STEP ONE I took around 200 photos of this dog on my tablet. I can take several hundred pictures of my subject in the hope that half a dozen will stand out. In this case, there was one strong head shot, but I also wanted to revisit this pose, as it totally captured the spirit of a spaniel at work. You can use other pictures as support references if you wish to.

Lisa used…

sheet of white • 1Clairefontaine Pastelmat

•

• • • •

paper (to fit a 12in x 16in portrait) Faber Castell Albrecht Durer Watercolour Pencils in black, white, caput mortuum, dark sepia, Payne’s grey, burnt ochre, dark indigo, cool grey I, cool grey II, Prussian blue, warm grey III and terracotta Craft knife Pencil sharpener Water brush or watercolour brush Glassine paper (to lean on to prevent smudging when working)

STEP TWO I am using Faber Castell Albrecht Durer pencils, both wet and dry, and I chose a Pastelmat as a support in white. Usually I would choose a cool shade, but as this is a tutorial, I went for white. The Pastelmat takes all the abuse I can throw at it – up to 20 layers of pencil and washes of water – with no buckling, but it’s quite hard to source, so you could use a heavyweight watercolour paper or sanded paper instead. To begin, I transfer the line image to the support, sketching in with a Payne’s grey pencil.

STEP THREE I tend to put the first bout of foundation colours down quite quickly, going with my initial feel for the underlying layers of fur. Sometimes I can use over 60 different colours, but I’ve limited the palette for this piece. Start with the black to fill the darkest www.dogsmonthly.co.uk

ART Nov.indd 17

of shapes in the fur, working from top to bottom. Next add the Prussian blue and dark indigo and then the caput mortuum colours. Use very light layers of pigment, preferably with the side of the pencil nib. Less is more with watercolour

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pencils. Lastly, use cool grey II to soften the lightest areas, going over the other colours where needed. For the eye colour, use the terracotta for foundation, then burnt ochre, and a touch of caput mortuum around the edges. November 2017 | 17

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STEP FIVE While the image is still wet, go back in with the pencils, especially the black, to add more intense pigment to the areas that need it. Go in with the white pencil in the lightest areas. Once you’re happy with your initial under-painting, allow to dry, preferably overnight.

STEP FOUR The placement of the initial pigment should mean that at this point all you need to do is add water. Start from the top and work your way down. Try to do the lightest parts first, wiping off any excess pigment on a tissue, and then sweep the wet nib over the darker areas. Try to work quickly but methodically.

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About Lisa

STEP SIX Now I can start building the dry layers to create the fur texture. Using the same colours as the foundation layers (black, dark indigo, caput mortuum, Prussian blue and cool grey II), I begin to work in the direction of the fur, always keeping in mind the contour of the ears and the bone structure. There will be several more workings over the whole portrait, so they’re not worked to completion yet. With sharp pencils, take a little time to zoom in, and define the eyes at this point – a touch of Prussian blue in the highlight gives the impression of a reflected sky.

Lisa Ann Watkins graduated from Cheltenham School of Art in 1992 with a degree in fashion and textiles, but after working in costume and bridal design, she left the creative industry. It wasn’t until 2012 that she picked up a pencil again and drew her first dog, a black German Shepherd Dog. Since then, Lisa has drawn hundreds of dogs, including collie cross Bob from The Supervet, and an award-winning portrait of a French Bulldog called Stella. In every portrait, she not only captures the likeness, but also the traits that make that animal unique, whether it’s a cheeky look or a favourite pastime. Lisa grew up in a dog-owning household and currently shares her home in Gloucestershire with five rescue dogs. She’s always been inspired by her love of animals, and has now discovered that her artistic talents can be used to support a cause close to her heart. “I’ve always tried to support rescues, but have not always been able to donate financially, so when I discovered I could portray anything furry through art, I was even more excited. I’d found a way to not only give something back, but also to give animals a voice.” After working as a professional artist and establishing her business Animal Art by LAW, Lisa realised many of her fans wanted to learn to draw just like her, so she began to hold workshops where she could pass on her skills and techniques. 18 | November 2017

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“Teaching seems to have become the next step for me, despite my fear when starting out. Rediscovering my creative side meant a final way out of my spiralling depression, so I know just how healthy it is for people to find time for their art. I want to do everything that I can to encourage that.” Lisa’s UK workshops proved so popular that she was invited to teach in three US cities recently, and a second US tour is on the cards for 2018.

www.dogsmonthly.co.uk

22/09/17 11:20

MADE IN GERMANY

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STEP SEVEN Start to repeat step 6 in finer detail. Starting across the top of the head, you can begin to feel the animal coming to life. I work from dark to light at this stage, and will then repeat the process in the next layers. Keep your waterbrush to hand if you want to intensify small areas as you work. I use it sporadically to increase the contrast in specific areas, such as under the left ear, under the eyelids, and so on.

Lisa’s top tips

laying down the watercolour pigment, use very light • When layers. The pigment is so vibrant once the water is added

• • • • •

that you don’t need much. Test before working on the main piece, and if you use a different brand of watercolour pencils to the ones I’ve used here, look online for a coloured pencil conversion chart. The further you get into the piece, the sharper your pencils need to be. On the final layers, you need to keep them super sharp, but they can be blunt for the first layers. The portrait doesn’t need to match the reference photo exactly. Try to inject some character into your subject. Once you think the piece is finished, take away the reference photo and see if the lighting is balanced. Adjust if needed. Ensure the under-painting is totally dry before attempting the dry layers, otherwise the pencil will just slip over the surface. Have fun and don’t rush!

STEP EIGHT Now you can see the dog beginning to become more refined and have depth, shape and texture. As you work the light hitting the curls of fur, always keep in mind the bone structure under the fur, and the different textures between the ears and the muzzle. Use the same formula to continue down through the body. Map in the darkest shapes first. Then pick out the blue, the red and the highlights. It is imperative that you start to keep your pencil sharper now.

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STEP NINE I have left the muzzle until last. You can wet the nib of the white pencil now and stipple effect on to the highlighted part of the nose. This intensifies the white in the dots. You can do the same with the black here too.

STEP TEN I decided to add in a quick background to set the piece off. I used PanPastels to add in some colour, and a few dry watercolour pencils to create some texture and grass at the front. This is a personal choice, and if you do add a background, then the edges of the dog will need to be reworked to ensure there’s no halo of pastel around them. 20 | November 2017

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STEP ELEVEN For the final step, I now rework the whole portrait from top to bottom, using a couple of methods. I zoom in to each area of the reference photo on my tablet so I can work on the detail, but then every few minutes I zoom out and flick my eyes between the screen and the drawing. It’s something I was taught called ‘spot the difference’. You can also squint at the piece to see if you’ve created enough contrast. Once I’m happy that all of the pencil layers are in place, my last task is to remove them – well, just a little! I use a craft knife, and following the direction of the fur, I scrape through the pigment over the whole animal. This adds extra texture and depth to the fur. I then usually leave the portrait to one side for a couple of days, and come back to it to see if anything obvious needs tweaking. c

Find out more

• www.facebook.com/AnimalArtbyLAW • www.animalartbylaw.co.uk www.dogsmonthly.co.uk

22/09/17 11:20

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25/09/2017 17:21

Dogs &people

The seekers For the love of dog

CATHERINE PICKLES meets the volunteers who drop everything, at a momentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s notice, to harness up their highly trained dogs and search for the lost and missing

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t is Saturday evening at about 6pm. Jim Rudman, an environmental health officer from Staffordshire, is at home with his family. It is cold and dark outside and he is glad to be tucked up indoors with his wife, two young children and his dog, Jake. Jim’s children are noisily deciding what to watch on TV, and his wife is about to step into the shower. Jim is in the middle of peeling potatoes for their evening meal when a familiar buzzing and beeping from his belt changes not only his evening’s plans but that of his family as well. Only Jake, a chocolate Labrador, will be spending any time with Jim tonight, and his family, after a few snatched kisses goodnight and hurried goodbyes, have no idea when he will return.

Team effort

Left: Jim Rudman and his dog Jake on a search. Above right: Often the search is for those who are distressed, elderly or confused. Below: Rob Messenger and his dog Penny.

In Newcastle Under Lyme, Rob Messenger, who has just returned from a quick trip to the shops, stops his car, flings his bags into the hall and wakes Penny, his fiveyear-old dog, from her snooze on the sofa. The words ‘Shall we go?’ cue incessant barking and jumping from the Border Collie. Returning to his car, remembering to pick up Penny’s harness and jacket en route, Rob and Penny are in a hurry: they are on a ‘shout’ and time is of the essence.

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Heading to a rural location, Rob and Jim, along with team leader Dave Barley and his dog Red, join a host of other volunteers who are all members of

Staffordshire Search and Rescue Team (SSART), who have been called on by the police to help search for a missing person. Dave Barley, a postman and SSART’s dog team section leader, explains, “Everyone who is missing is vulnerable to the cold and tiredness. Occasionally, these are people who have taken longer to return from planned walking activities; more often it is searching for people who are distressed, elderly or confused. This isn’t a glamorous job. We’re often searching through dense undergrowth, muddy ditches or large areas of farmland, but we do it because we’re highly trained and we do make a difference to people’s lives. I’d like to think that if a loved one of mine was missing, someone would offer to help.” For Jim, the nature of their searches and the satisfaction he gets from the work is full of contrasts.

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I heard a member of the missing person’s family say to a young child, ‘Don’t worry – that man and his special dog will find Grandpa.’ I remember thinking, ‘Oh, Christ! No pressure then!’ We found him, thankfully

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“It’s exhilarating, sobering and exhausting all at the same time! Watching Jake work an area is so rewarding, but it can be a mix of emotions if you locate someone, particularly if they have died. Working an area whilst trying to identify what the wind is doing can also tax your brain. On the one hand, it’s intensely satisfying and rewarding, but the sad fact is that we’re often either looking for a deceased person or someone in extreme distress, and that means that you need a level of maturity to be able to process it all, go back to your day job and then turn out again. We are all highly trained and we work as a team, so that makes a huge difference.”

Work stress

Rob Messenger, who works with Penny, agrees. “There is a lot of pressure. I remember my second operational deployment to a missing elderly man with dementia. When I arrived and got the dog out of the car, I heard a member of the missing person’s family say to a young child, ‘Don’t worry – that man and his special dog will find Grandpa.’ I remember thinking, ‘Oh, Christ! No pressure then!’ We found him, thankfully. “Penny, of course, is blissfully ignorant to the mental torment that I am under. She is totally focused on her favourite toy, ‘Monkey’, a Kong Wubba tug toy. Her steadfast determinedness to get her toy is what drives her to hunt for human scent, and so long as she finds a human, regardless of 24 | November 2017

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〈 whether it is our missing person or not, she gets ‘Monkey’. After all, she doesn’t get briefed with a description of the missing person.” Qualifying to be a dog handler for a search and rescue team is neither quick nor easy. Mick Dunthorne, who works in the energy supply industry, has been a member of the team since 2012. Before he could train as a dog handler, he first had to train as a regular search technician and then qualify as a team leader before he was considered for training as a handler. After four years and a number of additional qualifications in navigation, first aid, rope skills and searching, Dexter joined Mick’s family in the winter of 2016 and he is at the early stages of his training. “There are many types of search dogs used in a search and rescue situation and as Staffordshire had three air-scenting dogs already, I wanted to add a further capability

Top: Mick Dunthorne and his dog Dexter. Above: Dexter, who is training to be a trailing dog.

to the team, so decided I wanted to pursue training with Dexter as a trailing dog. “Trailing dogs follow the smell of a specific person, so Dexter’s skills should complement the air-scenting dogs well. Even if a full trail cannot be followed, a direction of travel will hopefully be established to help the search planners direct our volunteer resources in the most likely areas to search for the missing person.” Before Dexter can become fully operational, he will need to complete his bronze, silver and gold awards in the Kennel Club Good Citizen Dog Scheme, as well as the National Search and Rescue Dog Association (NSARDA) tests. Passing the tests isn’t easy, as Jim recalls. “Jake and I flew through his bronze, silver and gold Kennel Club certificates early on and he showed great potential for becoming a search dog. We then www.dogsmonthly.co.uk

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This continues until we both arrive at the missing person where he gets rewarded with his favourite toy.”

Team bonding

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had to pass an NSARDA obedience test, which he did at 18 months old. It took a lot of dedication to build him up to a 10-minute stay, five minutes of which had to be out of sight of me. Then we had a slightly surprising hiccup with his stock test. That meant we needed a few more months of dedicated training to become confident that he would not worry sheep off-lead. “At the age of two, Jake and I became a trainee SAR dog and handler, and then we qualified about 18 months later as a novice

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SAR dog and handler. Finally, in April this year we passed our upgrade assessment and became fully qualified. “As an air-scenting dog, Jake is trained to pick up on any human scent. While it is not completely understood what the dogs are picking up on, we know that humans tend to shed around 40,000 skin cells every minute and these get caught in the wind and blow across the search area in a cone shape away from the missing person. When Jake’s nose enters this cone, we see a distinct ‘strike’ as his body language changes and he turns into the cone and then runs towards the missing person. “Picking up the human scent at up to 500m away under the right conditions means that Jake arrives at the missing person long before I do. Once he has found what he is looking for, he will return to me and indicate the find with a bark. At this indication I give Jake a ‘show me’ command and he runs back to the missing person. If I am still far away – and usually I am! – Jake will return to me and repeat the indication.

Weekly training sessions for both dogs and handlers mean that the team has a strong bond. Dave, the team leader, is responsible for organising these. “We’re a team, but friends as well. And we have to support each other’s training. We have dog support members who work alongside the dog handlers to help them navigate to the area we have been asked to search or to administer any first aid, for example, whilst the dog is rewarded for finding someone. We also have dogsbodies: people who hide from our dogs on a regular basis during training, and we can’t train without these wonderful people. It’s a real team effort.” Being involved in search and rescue is intense, but for Dave, and the rest of the team, his passion and commitment to helping others starts and finishes with the relationship he has with his dog. “It’s magical! The bond that I have with Red is unique; we understand each other and what has to be done to rescue someone. As soon as my pager goes off and I start getting kitted out, Red begins pacing around and when I get his search jacket, he knows we are going to search. We have such a strong bond, which makes for a great team. You can’t get a better feeling than that.” c

About the author Catherine Pickles is a full-time family carer, a blogger, journalist, author and a regular foster carer for Hounds First Sighthound Rescue. The human author behind the hilarious Worzel Wooface series, she lives in Southwold with her husband Mike, two nearly grown-up children, Worzel the Lurcher and five cats.

Above and below left: Dave, the team leader, and his dog Red at a demonstration.

Find out more

To get involved with your local Search and Rescue Dog Association: Visit www.nsarda.org.uk You will need to be between the age of 18 and 70 Physically fit enough to work in demanding locations Able to volunteer your time and attend weekly training sessions.

• • • •

Alternatively, all search and rescue teams need support from non-operational members. You can find out more about the work of Staffordshire Search and Rescue Team at www. staffordshirelowlandrescue.org or follow them on Facebook at www.facebook.com/ staffordshiresearchandrescue www.dogsmonthly.co.uk

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25/09/2017 17:44

Dogs &people

Coast with the most

Pembrokeshire promises waggy tails for its furry visitors. Would Benji and Madi give the south-west Wales county the paws-up for dog-friendliness? Their travel companion, CLAIRE HORTON-BUSSEY, reports…

igures released this year reveal that UK pet owners spend £2.1billion per year on holiday care for their dogs. Sometimes, care is needed because the holiday is unsuitable for a dog to tag along on, but for UK breaks, it’s often because pet owners don’t believe they can enjoy something that is truly pet-friendly. Let’s face it – dogfriendly properties of old didn’t have the best of reputations, and in high season, beaches are often closed to our four-legged friends. But luckily, the tourist industry is wising up to this lucrative market. My eyes were certainly opened when I took my family – hubby Emyr, two kids (Katie 14 and Alys 7), Lurcher Benji and collie cross Madi – to Pembrokeshire in August. Packing takes forever with two children – and once I added in

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the dogs’ essentials (and nonessentials!), I was very glad we had a roofbox. Two dog beds, bedding for their car journey, extra towels, harnesses, leads, cuddly toys, travel water bottles, bowls, food, Kongs, Frisbees, balls, treats and chews… Dogs don’t travel light! One survey I found (Frontline 2013), said 55 per cent of owners felt it was harder work to take a pet on holiday than it is travelling with a baby. While packing, I did wonder if I agreed with the 55 per cent, but once you have the right property and location, there’s no reason why a dog-friendly family break can’t be truly relaxing. Planning is key. Once I’d booked the perfect property, thanks to Cottages.com (www. cottages.com/inspire-andexplore/iloveyouk), I pored over maps of the surrounding area.

In the weeks leading up to the holiday, I was a frequent visitor to the Visit Pembrokeshire website, which has a section dedicated to dog-friendly beaches. Most helpfully, there are downloadable maps, showing restricted areas for different beaches. The choice for the dog walker is astounding. The website explains, “All of Pembrokeshire’s beaches, over 50, welcome dogs. You can choose from wide expanses of golden sand, such as Marloes, or secluded bays, such as Broad Haven South.” But what about the summer months? This is often the time when beaches stop allowing dogs. Surprisingly, only two of Pembrokeshire’s 50 beaches have full dog restrictions (Whitesands and Tenby North). Coppett Hall has a voluntary dog restriction, but the rest permit dogs all www.dogsmonthly.co.uk

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〉 year round. Some of the more popular bathing beaches (Poppit Sands, Newgale, Broad Haven, Dale, Lydstep, Tenby South, Saundersfoot and Amroth) have dog-restricted areas, but still with oodles of space for four-legged beach frolickers. Anyone with a reactive dog will know that planning is especially important to avoid stressful or unpredictable situations. Benji has been dog-reactive to certain dogs in the past, and so we muzzle him in busy public areas just for peace of mind (you can

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Main image: Benji enjoys the view from Precipe. Top left: Benji enjoys the pub garden at Amroth. Top right: Dressing up at Carew Castle. Above: Carew Mill walk. Below: Madi at the seaside at Amroth.

never stop the occasional offlead dog approaching...). Some of the beaches we visited were bustling with lots of dogs – which was heaven for me and ultrasociable Madi, but would have been overwhelming to Benji, and so he went off with Emyr, who is equally antisocial, to enjoy a boys’ coastal walk instead.

Amroth

Amroth is a small village, seven miles from Tenby, with a halfmile flat, sandy beach. It’s popular with walkers, as it’s the start (or end!) of the 186-mile Pembrokeshire Coastal Path. There’s ample parking right by the beach and plenty of room for dogs to run full pelt on the sand in pursuit of seagulls. Approaching dogs could be spotted in the distance easily, meaning we could put Benji on the lead and work on his distract/ focus training, to keep him calm and happy. At low tide, stumps from an ancient petrified forest can be seen – apparently dating back to the last ice age. After a good run about, we

crossed the road to the dogfriendly New Inn. We settled at a pub bench in the garden where both Madi and Benji snoozed at our feet after first checking for any dropped food… Bingo! Madi found half a fishfinger – which was easily the highlight of the entire holiday for her!

Carew Castle and Tidal Mill

Carew Castle is a dog-friendly attraction, so we took Madi along so she could brush up on some of her Welsh history. This year the castle was awarded Best Dog-Friendly Day Out by Pembrokeshire Tourism. From Carew Castle, there’s a walk around the 23-acre millpond to the Tidal Mill, where we had a much-needed cuppa and cake at the cafe right next to it. Alas, there were no fishfingers by the outdoor benches, but Madi did hoover up a few cake crumbs. We carried on the walk, to Carew Cheriton church, through meadowland and cropfields to stretch the dogs’ legs before returning to the car. November 2017 | 29

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〉 Dale & St Ann’s Head

Dale is a cwtchy village nestled in the heart of the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park. A popular spot for kayaking, sailing, paddleboarding and other water activities, there are plenty of amenities for visitors – parking, public loos, a cafe, and a pub (The Griffin) famed for its seafood. We walked the half-mile across the head of the peninsula to West Dale, which was quieter and had a beautiful beach. While the kids cartwheeled on the sand, made castles, rock-pooled, and paddled in the sea, I read a good book and Emyr took the dogs for a walk around the coastal path of St Ann’s Head. It’s an area famed for its wildlife, with the islands Skomer and Skokholm just a short boat-trip away, but no dolphins or porpoises were spotted on this occasion. For history buffs, Dale is where Henry Tudor landed on 7 August 1485 with 55 ships and 4,000 men, before travelling through west Wales, garnering support, 30 | November 2017

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and defeating Richard III at the battle of Bosworth a couple of weeks later.

Manorbier

‘The pleasantest spot in Wales’ wrote Welsh churchman Geraldus Cambrensis in 1146 – and I won’t disagree! The castle (which is

dog-friendly) and church are opposite sides of a valley that leads to a sandy bay. It was doggie heaven when we visited – well, for sociable dogs! Madi had a wonderful time, playing with poodles, spaniels,

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restaurant, and dogs accompanied their owners at the outside tables.

Pendine Sands

Pendine is big. Very big. Seven miles big, in fact, and so perfect for dog-reactive dogs! Famous for being the site of various land-speed records, there is a nearby Museum of Speed for those interested, but it isn’t dogfriendly, giving assistance-dog access only. Pendine is actually in Carmarthenshire, by the way, but was still local to us, and what’s a border between friends?

Home for the week

Our base for the week was the lovely Foxes Walk, booked through Cottages.com There were many dog-friendly properties to choose from (www. cottages.com/inspire-andexplore/iloveyouk), which was refreshing, and we couldn’t have chosen better than Foxes Walk,

two miles outside the chic market town of Narberth. Half a mile up a private farm track, it was incredibly peaceful. There were farm tracks to walk the dogs in the two acres of farmland, tiled and wooden floors (no carpets to worry about pawprints), and a front and back garden. A former farm building, Foxes Walk had been converted to a high standard and had everything we needed for a relaxing, comfortable stay – even wifi, much to the kids’ relief! Pembrokeshire is definitely an area we’ll return to with the dogs, as there were so many more beaches and walks that we didn’t get the chance to explore. Dogs were truly welcome – which made our break so much more enjoyable. The only downside was a bit of wet Welsh weather, but when you have a dog-reactive dog, there’s nothing like a spot of rain to clear a beach – and then we could have it all to ourselves! Bliss! c

Find out more

Opposite top left: St Ann’s lighthouse. Opposite top right and centre left: stunning views from the Manorbier coastal path. Oppostire inset: Madi paddling at Manorbier Beach. Opposite bottom: the dogs enjoy a rest at St David’s Head. Above: Presipe, a beautiful secluded cove near Manorbier.

collies, terriers, Greyhounds and Whippets. She nosed around the rockpools with the kids, almost got her nose grabbed by a crab, and then had a snooze while we waited for Benji to return from his three-mile coastal walk around the Manorbier headland. Just around the coast from Manorbier is Presipe, a secluded cove, which was deserted on our visit.

• •

St David’s Head

Another coastal path walk! The 4.5mile circular walk from Whitesands to St David’s Head was very busy with walkers, but it became quieter as the walk progressed. There were beautiful views across to Strumble Head and lots of wild ponies, so on-lead walks only are advised. The loos as Whitesands cost 20p per visit – so take some change! Parking, too, was costly at £5 – not so bad if you’re staying all day, but extravagant for a dog walk. If visiting the cathedral town of St David’s the nearby Oriel Y Parc is worth a visit. The art gallery and visitor centre has a wonderful

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Property: Foxes Walk, Templeton, Narberth, Pembrokeshire Property reference: CC631025 Contact: www.cottages.com / 0345 498 6900 Price: £374 for seven nights’ self-catered accommodation, based on arrival on 17 November 2017. Sleeps four in two bedrooms. Allows two pets (no extra charge) www.cottages.com/pet-friendly-cottages www.cottages.com/inspire-and-explore/dog-friendly

Cottages.com has over 20,000 properties across the UK, Ireland, France and Italy. For more inspiration and ideas on where to visit with kids and dog in tow, visit www.cottages.com/inspire-andexplore/iloveyouk Visit Pembrokeshire •www.visitpembrokeshire.com/holidays-and-breaks/dog-friendlyholidays/dog-friendly-beaches/

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25/09/17 12:01

Dogs &people

‘Dog’ Martin

Actor and animal lover Martin Clunes, founder of Buckham Fair, just can’t get enough of his beloved dogs, writes BERNARD BALE

here’s something about dogs that many people find irresistible, but few people love dogs – and most other animals – more than one of TV’s most popular actors and presenters, Martin Clunes. “Yes, it’s true, I think dogs are brilliant!” says Martin, who has starred in such TV hits as Doc Martin and Men Behaving Badly. “There are very few animals I don’t like – and I’ve had the great privilege of getting close to many animals, both domestic and wild – but there’s definitely something special about dogs. They are such good fun, they are there for you if you’re a bit fed up or not feeling well – and, well, they’re great companions. “I’m not just saying that because

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I provided the voice for Kipper the Dog – if anyone still remembers that! I consider my dogs to be among my very best friends.” There is no question he means it, too. Martin lives in Dorset with his partner, TV producer Philippa Braithwaite and their teenage daughter, Emily. All three share a love of animals, especially their dogs, cats and horses. “Having a human family is something very special to me, because I lost my father when I was quite young and ended up in boarding school, which I hated. So my family means everything, but there’s also something wonderful about having a family of animals; they are such great characters and fit in well with the rest of us.

“I have always liked having animals around. One of the few good memories of my schooldays was being put in charge of the school animals, which even included sheep. Spending time with them made my day. “Now we have an extended family of animals, and probably the closest to us are the dogs – though we wouldn’t admit that to the cats, horses, chickens and other members of the family. We always have several of everything, and that includes the dogs.” Martin’s current canine friends include Labradors, Jack Russell Terriers and Cocker Spaniels. One particular Cocker Spaniel was very special to him, and he has a painting of her as a constant reminder. www.dogsmonthly.co.uk

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Main image: Down with the dogs at Buckham Fair.

To see more images from Buckham Fair 2017 go to www.fayeneal photography. co.uk/buckhamfair-2017

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would be fun for the community, and perhaps help a few charities too. I wanted a funfair of course, and we got one. We also wanted a gymkhana, and we got that – but we also just had to have a family fun dog show. We got that too, and now Buckham Fair is an annual event we all look forward to. “We try to help local charities as much as possible, but the real fun is the dog show. By keeping it just for fun, everyone has a great time, and that includes the dogs. Everywhere you look you see tails wagging and canine smiles.” Martin is also keen on helping selected animal charities, including the PDSA. “I really feel that people should try pets on before they commit to their care. You wouldn’t make any other expensive investment without knowing exactly what’s

involved, would you? PDSA’s work encouraging responsible pet care echoes my thoughts too. There would be many more happy and wanted pets if people did their homework. But, of course, pets are always bound to surprise you, and that is part of their appeal. “There’s nothing better when you slump into an armchair after a busy day and just want to put your feet up, than when one of your dogs comes and slumps alongside you. It’s like having a cuddly toy who really loves you! Then you find there’s another dog nodding off with his head on your foot, and then yet another dog comes and licks your hand to say that he likes you. “That’s the joy of having canine friends. When you’re with your dogs, the world is a far better place.” c

Photos © Faye Neal Photography (www.fayenealphotography.co.uk)

Right: Martin with a contender at this year’s show.

“Mary Elisabeth was her name. She came to us when she was three months old, and she didn’t have a lot going for her. She was totally deaf and had problems with her joints. We wanted to give her as good a life as possible, and she was great company. She became quite famous and appeared on three Radio Times covers, as well as on television on This Morning, GMTV, Loose Women and The Paul O’Grady Show twice, by special request. “I am still saddened when I remember how she died. I was away filming, and Philippa and Emily joined me for a few days. We had builders working on the property at the time, and sadly, just as the builders were adding their final touches, one of their vehicles ran over her. We were all devastated. “The book on dogs I wrote, A Dog’s Life, was a kind of tribute to Mary, and she still has a special place in our hearts.” That book wasn’t Martin’s only work involving dogs. Martin Clunes: A Man And His Dogs was broadcast by ITV a few years ago, and became a very popular DVD. “I just totally enjoy working with dogs – and other animals, of course. I am an actor and I’m enjoying my career, but one of the best bits is that I’ve been asked to present a number of animal programmes. What a privilege! I have enjoyed every one of them, and I hope there will be more. “Animals are not just about TV work, though. There’s nothing better than sitting at my desk at home and looking down to find one of the dogs at my feet, or going out to get some fresh air and having the dogs playing about around us. I’m fortunate that we have some land, so the dogs can have a wander. We even stage our own dog shows. “I grew up in Wimbledon near the common, and I used to love it when the funfair came to stay. It was a bit scary, because the people who ran the rides and sideshows were a bit of a law unto themselves, but it always looked exciting and colourful – an atmosphere all of its own. “When we came here to our home in Dorset, we decided to try to organise something that

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Dogs &people

Natural born winners Life can be a challenge for rehomed dogs, but their courage and adaptability are celebrated each August at Buckham Fair, as DEBBIE BRIDGES discovers when she steps into the ring with her own rescue dog, Ula Main image: The six winners with judges; volunteers and Martin Clunes.

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or those of us who share our lives with rescued or rehomed dogs, there are few things we enjoy more than a chance to tell their stories, particularly to others who’ve been there, done that, and got the tear-stained T-shirt. Swapping tales of our individual highs and lows is a tonic in itself, but it’s the achievements of our wonderful dogs that really gets us going.

Personally, I have no difficulty going from nought to 60 on the subject of my Romanian rescue dog’s troubled past, taking in a range of emotions on the way to a dewy-eyed account of her ultimate triumph. Push the button marked ‘Ula’s Story’ and you’ll get the works, including the major setback she suffered following an unprovoked attack by another dog, which some

regular readers of the magazine might remember (Dogs Monthly April 2017).

It’s good to talk

Four strangers bearing clipboards have just pushed that button, and I’ve launched into what I hope is a concise narrative, starting with the anxious creature we first met, touching on the attack that shattered her new-found confidence, and ending with her calm demeanour at today’s show bearing testament to her incredible courage. By the looks on their faces, I think I’ve probably treated the four kindly judges to an impassioned but incoherent babble! www.dogsmonthly.co.uk

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photo © nickywoodsphotography.com photo © monique nerman photo © monique nerman

Ula and I are taking part in the Buckham Fair Best Rescue/ Rehomed championships, and if ever there was a case of every one of the competitors being a champion, this has to be it. Ninety dogs have come through qualifying rounds held around the West Country over the last few months, in a competition that is

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Top right: At the registration desk Helen Freeman, and Natalie Slade, assisted by Millylily and Otto. Above right: Martin Clunes gives Debbbie her ‘Finalist’ rosette. Below: Debbie and Ula.

much more than a beauty contest, and character is every bit as important as a shiny coat. Good condition is significant (with allowances made for the newly rehomed), but the judges are also interested in the difficulties dogs have faced, and the difference they make to the lives of those around them. Just being among the heroic hounds lining up for today’s final feels like success, and for Ula and I the main objective is simply to enjoy the occasion. With expectations hovering around the zero mark, we’re undaunted by the presence of two hotshot celebrity canines – King Tommy and Fleur – both of whom went all the way to the final of the Scruffts Family Crossbreed Dog of the Year competition at Crufts in March. “This is Tommy’s last competition,” says his owner, Monique Nerman. “He’s done so much to prove rescue dogs

can accomplish anything, but at eight-and-a-half, it’s time to hang up his show collar. It would be fantastic to be placed today and go out on a high!”

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Annual event

Now in its ninth year, Buckham Fair is hosted by actor Martin Clunes and his wife Philippa at their Dorset farm, with the aim of raising funds for local charities. Supported by a dedicated committee, sponsorship from local companies, and a small army of volunteers, the event has grown year on year, and in 2016 over 15,000 visitors attended the fair, raising £90,000 for Weldmar Hospicecare Trust. This year, all proceeds are going to the Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance. Every one of the finalists is being interviewed by the four judges, and to minimise waiting around, we’ve been split into groups, each of which has been allocated a half-hour slot in the November 2017 | 35

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photos © Nick Mallett

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bestie. Never mind rosettes – there’s nothing to beat a display of relaxed playfulness from a once-traumatised dog! To my left is a diminutive, apricot-coloured dog who has blossomed since arriving in this country from Cyprus in a move that surprised his new family almost as much as it must have surprised him… “Sparkie was one of several puppies found in a cardboard box,” his owner Joy Hennessy explains. “They were lucky to be taken to Cyprus Dog Rescue who found homes for them in the UK, but on the night they were due to fly, Sparkie’s adoptive family pulled out, meaning there’d be no one to meet him at Heathrow. By coincidence, my husband was going to the airport the next morning. We offered to pick Sparkie up and take him home – and the rest is history!” Joy says Sparkie’s arrival brought an injection of life to the whole family who were grieving after the death of her mum – particularly their elderly dog, Bruce, who’d been her mum’s constant companion. “Even Sparkie’s name was perfect,” says Joy. “He brought a much-needed spark of life into our family, and the fun and laughter back into our lives.” And judging by the joyful way he’s investigating everything and

Above left: Ula (centre) sizes up the celebrity canines, King Tommy (left) and Fleur. Above right: Inappropriate behaviour in the ring! Below left: Joy Hennessy and Sparkie wait to go into the main ring for the parade of finalists and awards. Below right: Ula schmoozes the judges.

everyone within reach, I’d say Joy’s name is equally apt!

Awards time

By the time we meet again for the parade of Best Rescue/Rehomed qualifiers and presentation of awards in the main ring, the promising blue skies of the morning have been replaced by a uniform grey, a chilly wind’s got up and squalls of rain are blowing in. But it would take more than an unseasonal soaking to dampen the spirits of those assembled, both inside the ring and pressing in on all sides to see who’ll be in the final line-up of 10, from which one champion will be selected, and prizes awarded down to sixth place. And the person who looks to be in the highest spirits is our

photos © Nick Mallett

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ring. The 11am shift is a friendly affair, and when we’re not busy weeping on the judges, we’re occupying our time by getting to know our immediate neighbours. On my right is a young Border Collie who, I’m told, bounced from one unsuitable home to another in the first few months of his life. Now an enthusiastic walking companion and agility star, he’s also an amiable chap and I’m delighted to see Ula misbehaving abominably at her end of the lead, in an attempt to get a game going with her new

www.dogsmonthly.co.uk

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www.dogsmonthly.co.uk

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About the author Debbie Bridges is a freelance writer. She lives in Devon where she spends her free time exploring every inch of the countryside in the company of her Romanian rescue dog Ula.

photo © nickywoodsphotography.com

genial and irrepressible host, Martin Clunes. While the judges are deliberating, he makes an energetic circuit of the entire ring, handing out red ‘Finalist’ rosettes and goodie bags all round, shaking hands and (clearly relishing this bit) making a fuss of every dog, before taking centre stage to call 10 dogs forwards for the final judging, and then announcing the winners. King Tommy is in the top 10. He and Monique join the select group in the centre of the ring and I swear she’s holding her breath, so it’s a relief when their sixth place is announced – any higher up the rankings and we’d have been calling the St John Ambulance! First prize goes to Tracey Ison and her blind sighthound, Scout, who stands calmly beside her as she tearfully accepts the red winner’s sash. Once the congratulations have died down and the cameras stop clicking, it isn’t difficult to catch up with the pair. Still looking shell-shocked, Tracey has tottered only as far as the exit, where husband Paul, and their two Whippets, Misty and Sparky, are waiting. Tracey tells me Scout was a mange-ridden stray with kennel cough when he was picked up at barely four months old. “His vision was obviously badly impaired, and it was thought he might also be deaf,” she says. “The rescue centre would have put him to sleep if he’d been both blind and deaf, but he responded to someone tapping on the floor and that saved his life.” Veterinary nurse Tracey knew there would be mega challenges ahead when she brought Scout home, but she promised they’d face them head on and together. And that’s exactly what they’ve done, making Tracey and Paul as courageous in their decision to take on a small dog with big problems as Scout has been in overcoming them. “He’s achieved the Kennel Club Good Citizen Dog Scheme bronze award, and become a Pets As Therapy dog,” says Tracey proudly.

“He’s climbed mountains, swum in the sea, and has loads more on his bucket list!” Scout sticks closely to Tracey’s side, frequently tilting his pink nose towards her. He’s a singularlooking dog, his coat a mixture of flecked ginger and snowy white patches. His eyes are mismatched – the left one small and sunken, and the right large and milky blue. He focuses instantly on the hand I stretch towards him, resting

his chin gently in my palm and fixing me in a gaze which, though unseeing, seems to give so much. “That’s a little bit of Scouty love!” Tracey laughs, and I wonder if that’s what melted the judges’ hearts, just as it’s melting mine. It might look like an outstanding win for Scout today, but maybe he’s simply notching up one more victory; after all, he’s been winning against the odds from the moment he was born! c

Top left: Tracey and husband Paul with Scout, Misty and Sparky. Below left: Tracey with blind sighthound Scout.

Find out more

find out more about Buckham Fair, including details of dates and venues of • To qualifiers for the Best Rescue/Rehomed championships, go to buckhamfair.co.uk story is told in Tracey Ison’s book For the love of Scout: Promises to a • Scout’s small dog, which was reviewed in our Dogs Monthly Book Club last issue. It’s published by Hubble & Hattie and available from amazon.co.uk

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Training &behaviour

Painful truths We all want happy-ever-afters, but sometimes that just isnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t achievable, writes behaviourist YVONNE MACKENDER

German Shepherd Dog. Posed by a model

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worked with Prince, a five-year-old German Shepherd Dog, when he was first imported into this country three years ago. He was aggressive towards the vet and was fighting regularly with the family’s other dog, a male Labrador of a similar age, called Bruno. I had previously carried out a full Emra (emotion, mood and reinforcement assessment) analysis of both dogs. I’d examined their daily needs based on their breed/type, and had made an assessment of the underlying mood state as well as the emotional state of both dogs immediately before, during and after a fight, and for Prince at the vet’s. The family were fully committed to the programme we had put together, which followed the Esta protocol (emotional systems therapeutic application), which is used alongside Emra by members of the Coape Association of Applied Pet Behaviourists and Trainers and is based on the core emotional states as identified by neuroscientist Jaak Panksepp. Devising a programme that allowed us to avoid the negative emotional states of fear, panic and rage, and promoting seeking behaviour, care and play had enabled us to change Prince’s perception of the vet’s and improved his emotional state so that he was happy to visit the clinic. We also taught him how to communicate that he was OK with a given procedure, or that he was uncomfortable and needed a break. Giving him these choices resulted in a dog that didn’t just tolerate his visits to the vet’s; he started to enjoy them. The situation with Prince and Bruno was not as easily resolved. Prince, being the bigger and stronger dog, had defeated Bruno on a number of occasions and I had made the assessment that he was actually enjoying the conflict and would actively seek out Bruno and attack him. My assessment of Bruno was that he was living in fear of Prince. The couple lived in a large farmhouse with two back doors each opening into a separate area of securely fenced garden. One door opened from the kitchen, the other opened from a snug. The house

Prince, being the bigger and stronger dog, had defeated Bruno on a number of occasions and I had made the assessment that he was actually enjoying the conflict and would actively seek out Bruno and attack him. My assessment of Bruno was that he was living in fear of Prince

had the added bonus that there were two other rooms between the kitchen and snug, which served as an area of no-man’s land. The family already spent an equal amount of time in either the kitchen or snug, so both dogs had regular company in their separate area. Having three doors between these two rooms indoors and an area of garden from each room (which were separated by a paved patio area), meant the family were able to completely segregate the dogs from one another to prevent further fights from breaking out. A good 18 months after my initial contact with the family, they emailed me again to say that they were downsizing and they wanted me to view their new house before they moved in, to see if I could find a way for the dogs to live separately. The new property was modern and open plan, with just two large rooms downstairs, plus a utility room that had the only door into the large wrap-around garden. A door off the kitchen led into the utility room and into the garden, and an internal door opened into a large living room with an open staircase to the upstairs of the property. There was no way of securely separating the dogs, or even having a timeshare arrangement in the core of the house. Even if one dog lived in the utility room and one in the living area, they would both need access to the garden – and that was via the utility room, which was not really big enough for either dog to live in. Even using leads to move them from one room to another, and using crates as an alternative to the rooms they currently had, meant the dogs would see each other several times a day, which was always going to trigger the aggressive display from Prince and the fearful behaviour (which served to reinforce Prince) from Bruno.

〉

Five freedoms

It was with a heavy heart that I had to sit down with the family and explain the meaning and potential implications of the Animal Welfare Act 2006. This act places a responsibility on the owners of companion animals to ensure that their pets are not subject to unnecessary suffering. The RSPCA devised the ‘five freedoms’, suggesting that in order to be spared unnecessary suffering, our pets should live in: Freedom from hunger or thirst, by providing ready access to fresh water and a diet to maintain full health and vigour Freedom from discomfort by providing an appropriate environment, including shelter and a comfortable resting area Freedom to express (most) normal behaviour by providing sufficient space, proper facilities and company of the animal’s own kind Freedom from pain, injury or disease, by prevention or rapid diagnosis and treatment Freedom from fear and distress, by ensuring conditions and treatment that avoid mental suffering.

• • • • •

The final two freedoms were crucial to this case. In the previous home, Prince and Bruno had lived completely separate lives and all five conditions were www.dogsmonthly.co.uk

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Labrador. Photo posed by models

A  

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Yvonne Mackender DipCABT (RQF Level 6) started studying with Coape in 1993 and has a wealth of experience in many aspects of animal welfare, training and behaviour. Yvonne now runs a small boarding kennels just outside Ely, Cambridgeshire, with her husband Charlie, where their philosophy is that every dog’s stay will be as relaxed and enjoyable as possible. They employ a basic psychological approach to achieve this and one that goes far beyond a simple duty of care for their clients’ dogs. Yvonne also runs On-Cue at Cloverleigh Dog Training and Behaviour Centre, which helps all dogs in a range of disciplines including Puppy Lifeskills, Talking Dogs Rally, and as a FitPaws Master Trainer and Certified Canine Fitness Trainer with the University of Tennessee. www.cloverleigh .co.uk

For your nearest behaviour practitioner www.capbt.co.uk For your nearest APDT-UK trainer www.apdt.co.uk

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easily met. But the layout of the new home meant it would be difficult to prevent a fight breaking out, and it would be impossible for Bruno’s life to be free from fear and distress, as whichever room he was in, he would hear Prince just the other side of it. Plus, both dogs would need to enter the garden through the kitchen, so they would potentially see each other several times a day.

Difficult decision

The Animal Welfare Act also places a duty on anyone to take action to prevent unnecessary suffering and states that if unnecessary suffering occurs as a result of a person’s actions, or failure to act, then that person who acted – as well as anyone failing to act – could be guilty of an offence. In other words, if any one of us witnesses a person harming a companion animal, we have a legal duty to intervene. Whether that be by calling the police or RSPCA, or by rescuing the animal, is for the individual concerned to decide, but turning a blind eye and doing nothing is not a legal defence. I could reasonably foresee that if these two dogs moved into this new house, one or both would suffer – and that suffering was, in my opinion, unnecessary. So I had to tell this lovely couple, who had worked so hard with me and their dogs in the past, that they needed to rehome one of their pets. The act makes reference to a ‘suitably qualified person’, and specifically mentions a behaviourist, which means that I could not say that I didn’t understand the act, or the implications of it, if a client fails to take my advice. I am in a difficult position whereby if I fail to make a report to the

authorities for them to intervene and the animals suffer as a result, I could find myself in serious trouble. The outcome was not what any behaviourist wants in any case they take, but I had a good rapport with the family, and my knowledge of the relevant legislation meant that I could explain to them how they could so easily fall foul of the law and implicate me in doing so. We were lucky, as part of the reason the family were downsizing was that their eldest daughter was getting married, and she and her husband-to-be were in a position to have Bruno live with them. But we do sometimes get cases where we have to recommend rehoming and the family are faced with putting a beloved pet into a rehoming centre. We have to be honest with the clients, especially where we can reasonably predict a serious situation occurring if they don’t take our professional advice. c

The Centre of Applied Pet Ethology (Coape) has been the leading educational provider in companion animal behaviour therapy for over 20 years. Membership of the Coape Association of Applied Pet Behaviourists and Trainers (CAPBT) is open to graduates of the Coape Diploma programme. CAPBT members assess an animal’s behaviour using the Emra (emotional, mood, reinforcement assessment) technique as taught by Coape. Members apply this unique technique in a variety of disciplines, from cat feeding to clinical behaviour. www.dogsmonthly.co.uk

22/09/2017 10:07

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25/09/2017 17:56

Training &behaviour

Let’s play! Just like children, dogs learn best when we make training so much fun that it all becomes just one big game, says SUE GILMORE

“B

all!” The magic word to my dog that means it’s time to run, chase, jump, catch, and take it back for me to throw again. His body language says it all. This is fun! Look at me! I can catch the ball! What’s more, he does a ‘lap of honour’. Such is his pleasure at catching the ball that his feelings of satisfaction, fulfilment and enjoyment are plain for all to see. Just watch any dog in the park playing ball and you can learn much about the animal’s relationship with their owner –

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if there is respect and if there is a willingness to please. Games can be fast and furious, or intricate and mentally demanding for dogs. Playing ‘fetch’ fulfils many of our dog’s needs. The prey drive is satisfied by chasing the ball and catching it, and a sense of achievement comes from having possession of a high-value item (the ball, albeit temporarily), and the interplay with the owner when the ball is released ready to be thrown again. Dogs are social animals and enjoy interacting with their

owners, especially when both are having fun. Play behaviours arise during puppyhood, with littermates from as young as three weeks old wrestling together, rolling over, nipping, biting, yapping, sparring on their back legs and chasing each other. It is clear that play helps dogs to learn social skills, awareness of their own strengths and weaknesses, and bite inhibition – all of which will be useful throughout their lives. Of course, all of these skills can be found in aggressive behaviour, too, but puppies learn to give

Dogs are social animals and enjoy interacting with their owners, especially when both are having fun

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Staffordshire Bull Terrier. Photo posed by models

〉

an introduction to their chosen playmate to indicate that they want to play and not fight for real. When the dog’s tail end is held high, with his back legs extending upwards and the forelegs pressed into the ground, his face is also expressing that he wants to play – maybe he’s even ‘smiling’. Who could resist that invitation to play? I admit I would find it difficult!

Play & learn

I love playing with dogs, but what they may not realise is that I am actually training them as I do so. It is without doubt the best way www.dogsmonthly.co.uk

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to teach new, good habits and immediate responses. As with any game, there must be rules; just imagine playing rugby or football without rules! No one would be surprised if there were serious injuries, or worse. So, have it in mind what you want to achieve when you start to play with your dog, and you should be pleasantly surprised at his response. Here’s one game you can try: you’ll need a high-value item that your dog really loves, such as a tuggy or a ball on a rope, plus a flowerpot.

Get your dog engaged with the toy, but always keep hold of one end of it. Give your dog the signal to release the toy – use a verbal command, such as “Leave”, “Drop” or “Give”, together with a hand signal, which could be holding your hand out under the dog’s mouth, or bringing your hand above his head as if you want him to sit. So now you have taught him to watch your body language and to listen to you. So far, so good. Now give your dog a “Stay” command, and take a few paces towards the flowerpot, which

Playing with your dog is without doubt the best way to teach new, good habits and immediate responses

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Staffordshire Bull Terrier. Photo posed by models

〈 you have previously placed in position. It can either be upside down, in which case you can place the toy on the upturned pot so that your dog can see it, or you can stand it the right way up and put the toy into the pot. Walk back to stand beside your dog. Give him a “Watch” command to get eye contact, then indicate with your arm towards the pot and say “Fetch”. You may have to walk to the pot with him for the first few times, especially if you have put the toy inside, out of sight, but dogs soon get the idea of what is required if it is to their advantage. When the dog brings the toy back, say “Leave” (or your preferred command), and offer your hand for him to put it into your palm. Now, for all this hard work, there has to be a high-value reward, so you could play tug, or even throw the ball for your dog to retrieve. The more you play this game, the more you can expect your dog to learn, and the more variations you can incorporate. Why not give a “Down” or “Sit” command as your dog approaches the flowerpot, just before he retrieves the item? Or you could teach him to “Sit” or “Down” halfway back, especially if you regularly extend the distance you stand away from the flowerpot. The options and opportunities are endless. 44 | November 2017

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So, just this one game has taught or reinforced six commands: watch, sit, stay, down, fetch, and leave. In fact, you can teach endless behaviours to dogs provided you make the game fun and rewarding. I always take the toy back and put it out of sight once the game is over, so that when I next play, I know where the toy is – and so does my dog… Quite often he will go to where it’s kept and indicate that he wants to play. Sometimes I’m agreeable, sometimes not. Remember that the ball is in your court – literally! – and it’s important that your rules are respected.

Live chat

Have you noticed how much we talk to our dogs when we’re playing with them? Most of the time they just enjoy the noise; it seems to add to the atmosphere of playtime, and it also spurs them on. Our phrases and choice of words tend to be repetitive; quite similar to the way in which we talk to children. I often notice that much of my verbal communication is rhetorical, and I answer my own questions! Yes, we dog owners can appear to be mad at times, but we have a lot of fun, don’t we? We all play with our dogs in different ways, but there is no better way to train a dog than

through play. It is mentally and physically stimulating. Learning new skills takes time, so any new technique has to be honed, and if you find that your dog is not responding as you expect, take a moment to examine what you are doing or saying, or even how you are speaking to your dog. Our body language needs to be in harmony with our words, and we have to have a positive mindset if we are to get the expected outcome of any training. Take, for example, the owner who wants to compete at agility, and trains her dog to weave. The dog does it perfectly. Twice. Then, being so thrilled at the dog’s performance, she sends him through the weave a third time. This may well introduce doubt into the dog’s mind that what he has done is not quite right, or has not pleased his owner, so he tries something else; maybe he misses out a few of the poles. The golden rule when training dogs through play is to know when to stop the game. Always end on a good note. Training a dog is straightforward if you stick to your programme and objectives, but if you find yourself feeling frustrated, finish the game, put the toy away, and relax. There is always another day to play and get the rewards of time spent with your best friend. c

About the author Sue Gilmore MA BSc (Hons) is the political adviser to the Pet Education, Training and Behaviour Council (PETbc), and is a professional dog trainer, behaviourist and dog photographer. She runs the Essex Dog Academy and Gilmores Dog Photography.

www.dogsmonthly.co.uk

22/09/2017 10:09

䄀琀䜀攀渀琀氀攀眀攀戀攀氀椀攀瘀攀礀漀甀爀搀漀最搀攀猀攀爀瘀攀猀昀漀漀搀琀栀愀琀ᤠ猀愀猀挀氀漀猀攀琀漀琀栀攀椀爀渀愀琀甀爀愀氀搀椀攀琀愀猀瀀漀猀猀椀戀氀攀⸀ 䄀最攀渀琀氀攀爀攀洀椀渀搀攀爀漀昀氀椀昀攀椀渀琀栀攀眀椀氀搀℀ 吀栀攀漀渀氀礀洀攀愀琀甀猀攀搀椀渀琀栀椀猀瀀爀漀搀甀挀琀 ⠀瀀爀漀琀攀椀渀愀渀搀昀愀琀⤀ 椀猀眀栀椀琀攀昀椀猀栀℀ 匀甀椀琀愀戀氀攀昀漀爀搀漀最猀眀椀琀栀愀瘀攀爀礀猀攀渀猀椀琀椀瘀攀猀琀漀洀愀挀栀⸀ 倀氀甀猀漀甀爀渀攀眀最攀渀琀氀攀昀椀猀栀搀漀最昀漀漀搀椀猀愀渀攀砀挀椀琀椀渀最愀搀搀椀琀椀漀渀琀漀漀甀爀挀漀氀搀瀀爀攀猀猀攀搀爀愀渀最攀猀瀀攀挀椀愀氀氀礀昀漀爀礀漀甀爀挀愀渀椀渀攀⸀

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25/09/2017 17:53

Training &behaviour

Secret diary of a dog trainer At difficult times in our lives, our wonderful pets often help us pull through. Well, some of them do…

About the author Our dog trainer tells tales from her casebook, with some hairraising stories. A fictionalised account of real-life events. Event details, names and places have been changed to protect anonymity.

46 | November 2017

Secret Diary.indd 46

specific advice that can save an awful lot of trial and error. Nothing, however, can replace the little bits of input that a dog needs each day. No matter how small the effort, even just five short practice sessions a day can quickly build up into hundreds of training successes.

Time to train

So it was with Kirsten and Dottie. Her mum had set aside money for the dog’s ongoing care, and being too ill to teach the Cockapoo herself, had asked her daughter to take over. What with hospital visits and then hospice care, the little dog had spent time in kennels already, but now time had passed. It was time to train Dottie. The cause of Kirsten’s distress was unusual. Usually, an owner will complain heavily about their dog’s lack of progress, but this was the furthest issue from Kirsten’s mind, as Dottie was a fast learner and keen to listen to the 18-year-old. Their walks were filled with training and practice as they followed their route around the village. The problem lay with Dottie’s feline companion. Kirsten kept saying how much her mum adored the cat, and described how she would lie on her mother’s specially adjustable hospital bed as the poorly lady grew more frail. “It’s as if she was keeping

Illustration by Kevin Brockbank

“I

am so tired of it!” said the girl, flopping down on to her sofa. Her Cockapoo, Dottie, jumped up next to her and, sensing her young owner’s obvious distress, began burrowing under her arms to reach her face. Kirsten laughed as the desperate little dog licked her face, attempting to get closer by inserting a tongue into her mouth. “Ugh, Dottie!” she exclaimed in horror, “that touched my teeth!” I smiled and lifted my notepad by way of suggestion. “Shall we get this plan finalised?” I said, wishing to straighten out the next stages of Dottie’s training sessions. I was seeing Dottie for five sessions in a row, weekly. She didn’t have any problems that were risky, and they couldn’t really be described as behaviour issues, but she needed a lot of guidance. Kirsten had taken on Dottie now that her mum had died and was hoping to do the best for her new charge. Alone in the house now, with all the nurses and doctors gone, the little dog was keeping Kirsten very busy. Sometimes, intensive training helps support owners so that they can get on to the right track. Controversially, I have always thought there are shortcuts to dog training, in that a professional can give you

Mum going,” said Kirsten as we discussed it. “Mum always said she’d come back as a cat. I reckon all Meg’s mischief is my mum trying to keep me busy!” She laughed, covering her mouth as if speaking it aloud was somehow giving her thought a truth it didn’t otherwise deserve. Meg, a tortoiseshell and white female with enormously long, white whiskers, had taken to accompanying Kirsten and Dottie on their walks. At first it was a case of the cat just following them www.dogsmonthly.co.uk

22/09/2017 10:10

〉

to the end of the street, then returning to the front garden to await their return. This had now extended to the cat pursuing them around their whole route, about 20 feet behind, which took the family group past the busy main street. Walks had become a juggling effort between dog and cat training, as Kirsten attempted to shut the cat in before leaving. Only this morning, as I arrived for our session, I saw her and her neighbour attempting to shoo www.dogsmonthly.co.uk

Secret Diary.indd 47

Meg back indoors, only for her to run out and dive underneath my parked car, where she crouched frustratingly out of reach. The neighbour had laughed and shrugged. “Yesterday Meg just lay in front of my drive and refused to move!” the man said. “I beeped at her, but she just rolled over and showed me her tummy. I got out to move her and she let me stroke her head, then she made a grab for me. I don’t think she liked me touching her belly!”

At this, Meg strolled out from under the car and approached us all, crossing to Dottie and rubbing her face across the little dog’s chin. Her tail kinked at the top, and with her extravagant white whiskers twitching, she circled back and forth, butting her head up and under Dottie’s face as the dog stood patiently. “Ah, Meg!” said Kirsten, scooping the little cat into her arms and depositing her inside the house. The neighbour watched after November 2017 | 47

22/09/2017 10:10

her sympathetically and spoke quietly. “She’s on her own, you know. She’s doing really well, considering.” He was referring to Kirsten. I wondered what I would have done in her situation, then put the thoughts firmly out of my head. Now wasn’t the time to get upset, but I resolved to support her efforts as much as I could.

Making progress

〈

Our lesson continued with Meg watching us from the window. Dottie was coming on well with heelwork and sitting at kerbs. I managed to stop Kirsten bending over quite so much by laughingly suggesting that since her dog has a neck, she could give Dottie practice on how to use it. I explained that dogs can look up perfectly well; we don’t need to bend to their level. Kirsten giggled and promised she would remember. As soon as Kirsten straightened up, Dottie followed her lead better than before. I cheered them both on, delighted at their obvious bond. Kirsten had been through such a lot recently. Her house still bore the remnants of her mum’s illness, and the walking frame and hospital bed were still waiting for collection by the occupational therapy team. Kirsten said she was doing fine though, and her mum had been ill for a long time. Even so, I wondered how she was coping alone in the house each day. Dottie really had been a support. We arrived back at the house following the training session, and Dottie slurped her way through a bowl of water as Kirsten complained about Meg. “She’s started following me wherever I go!” Kirsten said woefully. As if on cue, Meg padded gently into the room, stood directly in front of us and mewed sharply. Kirsten sighed and stood. “Time for your biscuits!” she said, then cursed as the cat jumped up to stroke her white-whiskered cheek along her hand as the food bag came down. Biscuits scattered everywhere. The next week’s lesson came round quickly, and Meg the cat 48 | November 2017

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accompanied us on our walk. This time we were working on recall. I held Dottie’s lead, and Kirsten ran away from her, calling her. Dottie was released and off she ran, pelting back to her owner with obvious delight. We reversed the game, with me calling the little dog and running away. Back and forth Dottie ran. “One last time!” I called to Kirsten, releasing the little dog once more. Off she went, and suddenly, there was Meg, racing

her canine chum back to Kirsten, tail high and back end bouncing. Meg became a feature of every training session after this. Kirsten had even tried to put her on a harness and lead to stop her meandering into the road, but Meg wasn’t keen. She lay on the floor and refused to move. That Friday as I arrived, once again Kirsten and her neighbour were out in the road. “Please can you help? Meg has vanished. I haven’t seen her all www.dogsmonthly.co.uk

22/09/2017 10:11

Illustration by Kevin Brockbank

day,” said Kirsten frantically. My first instinct was not to worry, because cats often go missing, but Meg was different and would rarely wander far. Kirsten pushed her hands through her long hair anxiously. “She came with us last night when Dottie and I went to the pub, and I haven’t seen her since,” she explained, calling the cat’s name repeatedly in varying tones. The pub wasn’t far, but it wasn’t on their normal walk route. www.dogsmonthly.co.uk

Secret Diary.indd 49

“Fetch Dottie,” I instructed. We crossed the road and walked towards The White Horse, which stood proudly on the corner, a beautiful whitewashed building. Next door, some builders looked across, amused, as we called Meg’s name again and again. A portly chap on the building site wandered over in curiosity, as Kirsten explained her predicament. He nodded in amusement “Little cat? Great big white whiskers on her face?” he stated baldly. Kirsten stopped speaking and nodded. As she did so, an exclamation came from the site. A young, muscular builder was attempting to wheel a barrow. Under the wheel, refusing to move, and rolling on her back in invitation, was Meg. He gently nudged the cat in an effort to shift her, but Meg wasn’t going to comply. Kirsten called her, and the cat leapt up and ran to us. Dottie licked her delightedly. The young man came over. “She’s been pestering me all day,” he laughed in amazement, as he watched the dog and cat sniff and rub against each other, round and round in circles. He bent to stroke Dottie, but Meg shoved the dog aside, pushing her head forcefully onto his hand. He laughed and looked up at Kirsten, smiling broadly. Kirsten blushed and scooped up the errant kitty, thanking them hurriedly. We missed the next week’s lesson, as Kirsten was travelling, but we reconvened the following week. As with all training, it’s important to assess progress and refine what we are asking the dog to do. As Dottie was doing so well with most of her tasks, I decided we would work on greeting people calmly, something the little pooch wasn’t good at. She tended to become over-excited and put her paws up. Little dogs often escape training for this problem, since people always insist they don’t mind about it. However, no matter what size the dog, it’s essential they learn that greetings involve all four feet on the floor. As I stepped outside to ring

the doorbell and re-enter the house, pretending to be a visitor in order to help train Dottie, the young builder appeared round the corner, clutching a sagging bundle. He was out of breath and his eyes looked panicked. “The cat!” he said, “Hurt. She was just lying in the road. A car.” I yelled for Kirsten and speeddialled the vet as I realised the bundle in his arms was Meg.

Birthday treat

A few days later, it was my longsuffering husband Andrew’s birthday, and I had promised him we would go out for a meal to avoid the usual ramshackle dinners we somehow managed to assemble at home. The kids were with their grandparents for the week, and it was unusual to have an evening to ourselves. He was a big fan of basic grub, as he called it, and his happiest moments were spent peering over the top of a mountain of pie and chips. I recognised the pub exterior as we drove up – The White Horse. I wondered vaguely if their food might be a little too gourmet for Andrew’s tastes, but this was his choice and my treat, so I stayed quiet. We wandered in and ordered some drinks, admiring the newly renovated interior. Andrew picked up a menu and I watched his face as he scanned it for something straightforward. A voice cheerfully called my name from the corner seating area nearby. I turned to see Kirsten leaning round the wall, and waving madly to catch my eye, with Dottie next to her on the settle. The little dog wagged her tail furiously as I walked towards them. “Ooh! Well done, Dottie!” I exclaimed, as she kept all four feet firmly down as I approached. “Impressive self-control!” I was delighted at Kirsten’s successes with this charming little dog. A male voice laughed as I spoke. As I rounded the corner, there was the young builder, beaming with pride as he sat holding Kirsten’s hand. And from underneath their table, a familiar tortoiseshell and whitewhiskered face jumped forward to rub affectionately against my extended hand. c November 2017 | 49

22/09/2017 10:11

Training &behaviour

Ready, steady, recall

A foolproof recall away from other dogs is one of the most important – and most challenging – things you can teach your young dog, top trainer SUE WILLIAMS explains

s dog owners, we have a duty to ensure our dog is under control and well trained, but we also have an obligation to respect others, including our fellow dog owners. This is particularly important when allowing a dog freedom off-lead. When you’re out in the countryside and you see a dog on a lead, it is essential to realise that there’s normally a good reason for that. It could be because of an injury and a need to restrict the dog’s movement, or it might be because the dog doesn’t like other dogs. Whatever the reason, to the owner whose dog is on-lead, it’s likely to be stressful and annoying if a loose dog tears up to them without warning. It is therefore essential to show people respect and consideration by ensuring that if you let your dog off-lead, he has a sound recall away from other dogs. The recall is one of the most challenging exercises to 50 | November 2017

Sue Williams Nov.indd 50

teach a dog. Success relies on a combination of good training and having the correct relationship with your dog. If either element is weak, then once the distraction level increases, so does the likelihood of you losing control. Once off-lead, your dog has the freedom and power to make a choice – should I return as I’ve been taught, or should I do what’s more exciting, and run to see another dog? So how do you train and prepare so you have a 100 per cent reliable recall?

Teenage phase

In last month’s article, I explained how I’ve taken my Labrador Taggie’s loose-lead training from the practice field to the real world. This month we’ll look at how you can successfully achieve the same transition with recall training. My dogs are no different from anyone else’s; they’re full of fun, they love to play, and they weren’t born pre-programmed to

understand or obey commands. Taggie is an adolescent, and, like most teenagers, she’s testing the boundaries as she matures to adulthood. This is a critical time for training, and requires lots of patience and understanding. When a dog reaches this teenage phase, it can be hard for the owner, as the dog may look physically mature and adultlike, yet crucially, they are still mentally immature and have lots to learn. Unfortunately, this is the most common age for unwanted dogs to be handed in to rescue centres, as some owners don’t realise this and simply can’t cope. To make things even tougher, it’s not uncommon during this stage of a dog’s life for them to take a dip in their training, which results in a normally responsive pup becoming one who suddenly isn’t! Taggie is no exception. For her, a friendly Labrador, other dogs mean fun, so the temptation to ignore my recall command www.dogsmonthly.co.uk

22/09/17 11:33

Training with toys When training, I like to create a situation where my dog will choose to do what I ask because he finds it more fun and rewarding than the alternative. So here, I’m using games to encourage and motivate Taggie to want to stay around me, rather than rush over to the other dog. During the initial stages, I decide to use a long line as an aid. This enables me to ensure Taggie can’t make a mistake, which keeps our training positive. For additional security, keep hold of the long line. This is the safe way to hold it. I then play an exciting game with her toy.

〉 is high. To test a dog’s off-lead control and responsiveness, I set up a scenario that allows me to assess the dog under safe, controlled conditions. Here I am with Taggie, helped by Sky, my Border Collie, and Daisy, a member of my team at the training centre. As you can see, despite my efforts to recall Taggie, she simply can’t resist running to greet Sky. This assessment provided me with valuable information about where I’m up to with Taggie’s training. It showed me that I need to continue with her training before I can let her run completely free in a public area. If I hadn’t tested her recall under these controlled conditions, I wouldn’t have known it needed more work until she ran over to an unknown dog – which could have been disastrous if the other dog was aggressive. You can replicate this test in a safe area by enlisting the help of a friend with a sociable dog. www.dogsmonthly.co.uk

Sue Williams Nov.indd 51

Once Taggie is engaged, I introduce Sky as a distraction and continue playing the game.

As Taggie progresses, I start to throw the toy towards Sky.

November 2017 | 51

22/09/17 11:33

About the author Sue Williams BSc is the chairwoman of the Guild of Dog Trainers and a member of the Canine and Feline Behaviour Association, and specialises in dog training and behaviour modification. Sue is passionate about teaching using methods based on understanding and communication. She runs The Canine Centre in North Wales.

Training with food I also played a similar game using food treats, which I threw for Taggie as a reward for a good recall. She soon realised that in order to get a treat, she needed to return to me! This proved a very successful method for Taggie, as being a Labrador, she’s rather greedy…

Another useful exercise was to train Taggie to walk off-lead with me, without her needing to say hello to Sky as we passed. For each success, I rewarded her with her favourite treats, so she learned what I wanted pretty quickly.

〉

With regular, consistent training, Taggie soon progressed to the stage where I didn’t need to use a long line any more. She is now much more responsive to my recall commands, even when her best buddy Sky is around! c 52 | November 2017

Sue Williams Nov.indd 52

www.dogsmonthly.co.uk

22/09/17 11:34

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We urgently need your help to look after the hundreds of dogs and cats that arrive at Mayhew’s animal home in desperate need each year. Can you help us?

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13/06/2017 16:26

25/09/2017 18:24

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22/09/2017 08:49

䄀一䜀䔀䰀匀䌀伀䌀伀䨀伀伀倀䔀䐀䨀저䄀一倀䄀圀䈀䄀䈀夀倀伀圀䐀䔀刀䴀䤀䰀䰀䤀伀一䄀䤀刀䔀䈀䤀䜀䈀伀匀匀䤀匀匀夀䴀ᤠ夀䄀倀倀䤀䔀

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p055_DogsMonthlyNov17.indd 64

25/09/2017 18:20

Dogs &people

Tough turtle toy Canine crafts

Your dog will love RACHAEL SHARPE’s robust denim toy – made from an old pair of jeans!

You will need...

• An old pair of jeans • Scrap cardboard • Pen • Scissors • Tough needle and thread • Sewing pins • Cushion stuffing • Dog toy squeaker (optional). Step 1

Body basics

Cut the back pockets from the jeans and trim, so they’re nice and neat with no excess fabric visible.

Play safe

As with all toys (whether bought or homemade) inspect your denim turtle regularly for signs of fraying and damage. At the first signs of it looking the worse for wear, throw away and replace. 56 | November 2017

Crafts Nov.indd 56

22/09/17 14:18

Step 2

Head & legs

Place one of the pockets on to the piece of cardboard. Now draw your turtle a head and legs – the point of the pocket will be the turtle’s tail. Choose which front and back legs you like best.

A  

Step 3

Seams

Draw around the pocket, then take it away and draw a second outline around your head and leg shapes, adding on 2cm all round – this is your seam allowance.

Rachael Sharpe is a freelance journalist, who loves both dogs and crafting. She lives in Devon with her husband, Tom, and rescue Staffordshire Bull Terrier, Poppy. Find out more at www. rachaelsharpe. com

Step 4

Templates

Cut out the head and leg templates from the card. Now use the templates to mark out two heads, four front legs and four back legs on the reverse side of the denim.

Step 5

Cut & pair

Cut out all the pieces. Now pair them up and pin together, ready for sewing. For now, just pop a single pin in the middle of the pockets.

Step 6

Sew

Top tip

The tighter your stitches, the tougher the toy!

Sew together the two head shapes and then all the legs, using a tight, neat up-and-over stitch. Leave the straight edges open for stuffing. Stuff the pieces and then sew to close up the gaps.

Step 7

All together

To assemble your turtle, pin the stuffed head and legs to the top and bottom of the pocket. Use a tight up-and-over stitch to bind the body all the way round, switching to running stitch when you hit a leg or the head. Leave an inch of the body open for stuffing. www.dogsmonthly.co.uk

Crafts Nov.indd 57

Step 8

Top turtle

Stuff the pocket body of your turtle, adding a squeaker in the middle if you want, and then sew up the gap. Hand over to your pooch – and let the friendship commence! November July 2017| 57

22/09/17 14:18

Health &welfare

〉

Crunch time

Crossbreed. Photo posed by a model

Food for thought

In the second part of our series on the different types of dog food available, we look at probably the most popular option for many owners – dry food…

ry dog food – or kibble as it’s often called – is the food of choice for many dog owners. It’s palatable, adaptable, good value and, above all, convenient. Its low moisture content – estimated to be less than 10 per cent, compared to wet food which can be more than 60 per cent water – means it can be fed in smaller quantities, so it’s generally more economical per serving. Dry food is easier to store and to measure out, which aids portion control (essential for dieting dogs!), and it doesn’t require refrigeration after opening. This means it can be particularly useful if your dog likes to leave his food and come back

58 | November 2017

Feeding Dry.indd 58

to it later, or if you enjoy travelling and camping with your dog. In terms of choice, the variety of dry foods seems almost endless, with a huge range of options to suit a dog’s individual life stage, activity levels, and specific needs and health requirements. Grain-free foods, for example, can be useful for dogs with certain digestive problems, and some claim that dry diets can have a positive impact on a dog’s oral health by helping prevent a build-up of plaque and tartar. Dry food and wet food have been in competition from the early days of commercial pet food, but until World War II, wet food generally had the edge. Dry www.dogsmonthly.co.uk

22/09/2017 10:13

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25/09/2017 18:29

Crossbreed. Photo posed by a model

food (‘biscuits’) was often seen as a supplementary food, rather than a dog’s entire diet, but this began to change in the 1950s with the introduction of new processing methods for ‘complete’ dry foods.

How it’s made

〈

The most common manufacturing method for dry dog food is extrusion. This involves cooking the food at high temperatures under high pressure, but cold-pressed food – which produces complete foods at much lower temperatures – is increasing in popularity and becoming more readily available. Vet Anna Cherry, Dogs Monthly’s ‘K9 Queries’ nutritionist, says, “Extrusion was first introduced in the 1950s, and involves finely grounding up the dried raw ingredients into a powder. Water and steam are then injected into the mixture so it forms a paste or dough. The dough then undergoes ‘extrusion’ and is heated to around 100°C before being cut into the kibble shapes. The kibble is then cooled and dried to remove most of the moisture content. “Due to the high temperature, however, the nutrients, natural flavours and fats of the raw ingredients can be degraded, making dry food less palatable. Spraying the kibble with fats and vitamins once it’s cooled helps redress this. “Cold-pressed food has been around for decades in mainland Europe, but has only quite recently become more widely available in the UK. Raw ingredients, such as meat, cooked grains, and coldpressed oils and herbs, are ground up and mixed together. The mixture is then cold-pressed for only a few seconds at around 40°C. The end product is a dense pellet that is naturally highly palatable because more of the nutrients, including meat fibres and aromas, have been preserved.

〉

Owner’s view

Bear, Sqwidget & Eric

Sarah Towers considered both raw and dry diets for her three dogs, but decided that dry was a diet that suited all three. She owns Sqwidget, a sevenyear-old Rottweiler-Staffordshire Bull Terrier cross, Eric, a four-year-old Dogue de Bordeaux, and crossbreed puppy Bear, aged seven months.

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Says Sarah, “I feed dry to ensure the dogs have all the nutrients and supplements they require. I did debate raw, but one of my dogs doesn’t like uncooked meat, and it doesn’t seem right doing two and not the other. We have tried various dry foods to get to one we are now very happy with. “Two of my boys are foodies! It’s the only time my Rottie cross gets excited, and he insists on walking with me to the pantry to get his food, carrying and squeaking a toy. The only time he does this is at mealtimes and since being on this food. The Dogue de Bordeaux is soft, and at the start of his meal he has to be fork-fed, but he will leave his bowl shining clean.” Sarah describes the food she uses as good quality and grain free, which has proved beneficial in more ways than one, including easy storage, no wastage, less mess, and her dogs also appear to defecate less. She’s also noticed other changes in her dogs since she switched foods. “The Dogue de Bordeaux did have a few bald patches – a problem I understand they are prone to – and the Rottie cross had a very dull coat. This food seems to have corrected both. “I’ve not discovered any negatives. The size of the bags the food can be purchased in may be difficult for people with only one dog, but with three dogs, big bags are very handy.” www.dogsmonthly.co.uk

22/09/2017 10:13

Cold pressed natural dry dog food

find out more at www.forthglade.com info@forthglade.com

Hypo-allergenic

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Chicken with brown rice & Duck with brown rice

Available in 6kg & 12kg bags

www.forthglade.com

25/09/2017 18:31

The lower moisture content means your dog will need to drink more, so it’s essential that he always has access to fresh, clean water

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Feeding dry

Dry food may not have the strict storage requirements of raw or wet food, but to prevent the destruction of essential vitamins and oxidation of fats, the Pet Food Manufacturers’ Association (PFMA) suggests that dry food needs to be stored in a cool, dry environment. It’s also important to remember that although you can leave out dry food for longer, the palatability will decrease over time. The lower moisture content means your dog will need to drink more, so it’s essential that he always has access to fresh, clean water. The ‘1+1 rule’, where you provide one bowl of water per dog, plus one extra bowl, is a good one to follow. If your dog is a fussy eater, or disinterested in dry food, some people recommend adding a little warm water or dog-friendly gravy to the dry food to help entice him. You could also mix the dry food with some wet food; however, this isn’t advised over the long term, and you should gently wean your dog off the wet food if you’re intending to eventually feed dry only. c 62 | November 2017

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Cold-pressed food Pet food manufacturer Forthglade has been producing wet dog food since the early 1970s, but recently launched its first dry food for dogs. It’s made using the cold-pressed method, where the food is gently pressed at low temperatures. This is said to help retain flavour, aroma, vitamins and nutritional value. Manufacturers claim this type of dry food is easier for dogs to digest, as it gently breaks down in a dog’s stomach without absorbing water.

Bernese Mountain Dog. Photo posed by a model

“It has a slightly higher water content than extruded dry food, but the lower processing temperatures mean it has a shorter shelf life – around six months compared to 12 months for extruded foods.” With so many different varieties of dry food to choose from, it’s important to remember that the quality of ingredients can vary drastically, and it really can be a case of ‘you get what you pay for’.

Gerard Lovell, joint managing director of Forthglade, explains, “People are gradually becoming more familiar with coldpressing for human foods, be it with juices, coffees or oils, so it’s a natural step for this production process to be adapted to develop high-quality nutritionally balanced meals for our four-legged friends. Cold-pressing preserves the nutritional integrity of all the ingredients used, so the health benefits of the brown rice, natural vitamins, enzymes and proteins are not lost within the cooking process.” As with all new diets, it’s important to introduce your dog to the food gradually; Forthglade recommends a period of five days. For tailored advice about feeding your dog, speak to your vet. If you’re interested in trying cold-pressed food, Forthglade offers a 300g trial-sized tub for 99p. Visit www.forthglade.com www.dogsmonthly.co.uk

22/09/2017 10:13

FEEDING YOUR DOG NATURALLY Dog Food - Dry/Kibble United Kingdom 2017 - 18

“Brand of the Year” is used under license from World Branding Forum CIC

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Fuel their adventure... discover more at www.pero-online.co.uk

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25/09/2017 18:17

Readers’ letters

Mailbox

We love to hear from you! Email gill.s@dogsmonthly.co.uk with ‘Mailbox’ in the subject line, or write to Mailbox, Dogs Monthly, The Old Print House, 62 High Street, Chobham, Surrey GU24 8AA

S tar letter!

Bonnie by name…

64 | November 2017

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Our star letter wins a Tuffies Durasoft Mattress Bed Tuffies are strong, waterproof, warm and durable, with a futon-type mattress. Simply wipe them down to clean.

H For more information about the range, including the chew-proof Tuffies Dog Bed, call 0845 652 6028 or visit www.tuffies.co.uk

Painful choice

Dachshund, photo posed by a model

This is our lovely West Highland White Terrier, Bonnie, who came into our lives 10 years ago. We already had a male West Highland White Terrier named Dougal, who was a few years older, when we saw an advertisement on a website from a family who couldn’t cope with the eight-week-old Westie puppy someone had given them. They complained that the puppy was nipping the toes of their young children, barking at night, and going to the toilet on the floor. We contacted them and explained this is normal puppy behaviour, and she would grow out of it with a little bit of training, but they were adamant that they wanted her rehomed. We were happy to take her, and she got on great with Dougal. A few years later, Dougal unfortunately got diabetes and partially lost his sight. Bonnie helped him by leading him around the garden and the house, making sure he didn’t bump into anything. Sadly, we lost Dougal when he was 12, after three years with diabetes. Bonnie is a wonderful dog. She is so clever, loving and cheeky. Even at the age of 10, she still loves learning tricks, especially if it’s for a nice, tasty reward. We are so glad she came into our lives. Roisin Antill, via email

Would you choose a man over your beloved dog? Some friends of mine have adopted a beautiful Dachshund named Hugo from a rescue centre. Hugo is six years old, a gentle sensitive soul with no aggression. His story shocked me; I couldn’t believe someone could abandon their dog on the whim of another person. Hugo had belonged to a single lady, who had bought him as an eight-week-old puppy. The rescue centre said he was well cared for and obviously loved his owner. When he came in to the centre, he refused to eat for nearly a week and had been pining for her. The lady told the staff at the centre that she had met a man, and they had been going out together for a year. He had asked her to marry him, but on condition she rehomed Hugo. Her excuse was: she wanted to marry him and he didn’t like dogs, so Hugo had to go, as she wasn’t going to let a dog ruin her life. How could she? Surely, she could see that any man who imposed such a condition did not love her sufficiently to accept a harmless little dog that she’d had for six years. I can only think she must have been desperate to marry. Hugo has settled well, though sometimes he gazes round as if he is looking for someone. He is greatly loved by the retired couple who have adopted him. Could you choose a man over your beloved dog? I couldn’t. Sheila Bowen-Colthurst, via email www.dogsmonthly.co.uk

25/09/2017 19:41

Extending leads should be used with extreme care.

West Highland White Terrier, photo posed by a model

Handle with care

I have become increasingly frustrated over the years with the irresponsible use of extending dog leads. I often hear complaints about them, and how dangerous they can be, but as a professional dog walker, I have used them for years without any problems. They are great for dogs who are not allowed off the lead for whatever reason, as it gives them a bit more freedom than a short lead. However, you need to obey the golden rules for responsible use, which are: ●● Never, ever, use an unlocked extending lead when walking along a pavement. There is insufficient control, and a dog can easily run into the road in front of an oncoming car. A lead stretching across the pavement can also cause problems for pedestrians. Only extend the lead in an open space, such as a field. ●● Buy the tape variety rather than the cord type. The cord type can cause serious injury if it becomes wrapped round your leg and the dog decides to pull or run. ●● Check regularly for wear and tear. If the lead snaps while extended, it will recoil extremely quickly, resulting in injury caused by the trigger hook hitting your arm, hand or even face at speed. If the lead no longer recoils properly, or keeps catching, then it’s time to invest in a new one. ●● When stopping to clean up after your dog in an open space, shorten the lead, and make sure it is locked. It is very easy for a dog to catch sight of another dog, and to start running without you noticing, then reach the end of the lead, and either pull you over, pull your shoulder out of joint, or cause you to let go of the lead, which then hits the dog at full speed. ●● Look where you’re going and concentrate on what you’re doing. All too often, I see owners playing with their mobile phones, with a dog trailing behind on an unlocked extending lead, and the owner oblivious to what the dog is doing or where he is wandering. I recently watched a young girl, messing with her phone, cross a road and continue walking, oblivious to the fact that her dog had stopped for a sniff and was still on the opposite side of the road. It’s no wonder these leads get a bad reputation, but it needn’t be the case with just a bit of common sense. Carolyn Burry, via email www.dogsmonthly.co.uk

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Dogs &people

Book Club Reviews

Welcome to the Dogs Monthly Book Club with our pick of the latest releases – and five copies of each book up for grabs in our giveaway! Dog on Tour Maggie Scorer Self-published

n the June 2016 issue of Dogs Monthly, we had a glimpse of what it would be like to cycle 5,000 miles around the British coastline with just a four-legged friend for company. Now, Maggie Scorer has compiled the memories of her trip, along with many photographs, in her book Dog on Tour. After Maggie turned 65, she decided now was the time to do something truly challenging – a six-month trip around England, Scotland and Wales, with her bike and trailer, and her Golden Retriever, Oscar. On a wet and windy day in March 2015, the pair set off from Aldeburgh in Suffolk on a 26-week adventure. The book is divided into diary-like entries,

The Dogs of Avalon Laura Schenone W W Norton

aura Schenone, a dogphobic New York writer, is coerced into adopting an Irish Lurcher with a sad and mysterious past. Laura’s fascination with Lily, a ‘perfect primal predator’, yet a loving pet, leads her to try to trace her dog’s roots across the pond. At its heart, The Dogs of Avalon is the story of one incredible woman, Marion Fitzgibbon, who eventually rose to become the head of the Irish Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ISPCA). Born and brought up surrounded by the rural poverty of post-war Ireland, Marion came of age in a community that saw animals only in terms of their ability to work – pets were “for the wealthy, or the British”. The suffering she witnesses ends up fuelling a lifelong passion for justice – literally, for helping the underdog.

Marion soon fails to strike a balance between being a housewife and mother, and a lady who goes out in the evenings to feed the strays congregating in Limerick shop doorways. The animals take over. But Marion and her friends and supporters are in way over their heads. There is no money and plenty of ignorance. There are some heartbreaking stories relayed in this book, from a starving circus bear to a freezing donkey, but it’s when the Greyhound racing industry is addressed that things take a real turn. Protected by vast power and wealth, the ‘dog men’, the racing board and the tracks have wielded huge influence in Ireland for decades. In pursuit of a single champion, thousands upon thousands of www.dogsmonthly.co.uk

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covering each week of their journey, complete with photos and a small map, so you can follow the route as they go. If you were considering doing a similar trip, or you find this book inspires you to give it a go, Maggie has removed a lot of the guesswork by including a section on what to take, including tools and clothing and, of course, Oscar’s essentials – most importantly his food, which was delivered en route every 10 days! Determined Maggie wasn’t just doing this epic cycle ride for herself, but also to raise money and awareness for causes close to her heart – Sands (Stillbirth and Neonatal Deaths) and LLR (Bloodwise), a leading charity researching all types of blood cancers. A percentage of sales of the book will go to these good causes. Despite battling typical British weather, Maggie and Oscar finished their mission, raising £25,000 for charity and amassing a fan base of supporters along the way.

Greyhounds are easily and unashamedly disposed of. The Dogs of Avalon documents how the tide began to turn against the Greyhound racing industry, both in Ireland and on the international stage, and how this fight continues today. In a wider context, it’s a book that questions our relationship with all animals, from marine parks to factory farming. Where do we draw the line of what is acceptable – and how do we change it? This is a fascinating history of how individuals can make a real difference to animals’ lives.

Giveaway

Win one of our featured books!

We have five copies of each book to give away to Dogs Monthly readers. To enter, email competition@ dogsmonthly.co.uk with the name of the book you would like receive in the subject line. Please remember to include your name and full address. Alternatively, post your name, address and chosen book to November Book Club, Dogs Monthly, The Old Print House, 62 High Street, Chobham, Surrey GU24 8AA. Entries close 27 October 2017 after which 10 winners will be chosen at random. www.dogsmonthly.co.uk

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Dog finder

Meet the wannabe do Name: Chris Rasdale Address: Gloucester

Find my dog!

If you would li ke our panel of experts to h el your perfect so p you find ulmate, email claire@petsub jects.co.uk wit h ‘Find my Dog’ in the subject line, or write to Dogs Monthly at the address on page 3.

Our experts want to help guide you to your canine soulmate. He could be a rescue dog, a puppy, or even a rescue puppy. If you want to be featured in this section, contact us and we will try our very best to match you with the best friend that has your name and details just waiting to be etched on his collar...

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Who lives in the household? Just me Are you planning to have children, grandchildren, or other regular visiting children in the future? No Do you have a preference for a male or female dog? I’d marginally prefer a male, but either would be fine Are you willing to look at any age of dog? I’d consider a puppy or a dog up to around three years old; I’d also consider a rescue dog What other pets are in the household? None What is the maximum amount of time the dog would be regularly left alone? I don’t work at the moment, so I’m home ever y day and can come and go as I please. My intention is to take a dog out with me as often as possible, and to never leave it home alone for more than four hours. Once I start working, this will only be part-time (a few hours a day). Since I’ll be self-employed, my working hours will be entirely within my control. Any short stretches of days that I couldn’t take my dog out for a walk would usually be covered by a professional dog walking service that I know. However, I expect that having to use the dog walker would be very rare. If I have to go out for the day and the dog couldn’t go with me, I’d use a dog-boarding/day-care service. For extended holidays, I plan to only ever go places where I could take my dog with me. Although I’m not working at the moment, the cost of pet insurance, pet food, regular health-checks, other occasional vet bills and dog-related expenses aren’t an issue of concern.

www.dogsmonthly.co.uk

22/09/2017 09:25

be dog owner... Describe your home: One-bed ground-f loor flat How big is your garden? No garden, but I have a 38ft x 9ft balcony that has a 4ft-high brick wall. Although it’s a ground-f loor flat, it has a car park directly underneath, so over the balcony wall there’s a drop of about 15-20ft – on to grass. How big is your car? I don’t have a car at the moment, so my dog would be travelling on the bus or in a taxi with me for the foreseeable future. This isn’t a problem, as I live in the town centre and the bus stops are within easy ll reach. I’ll be getting a five-door sma t. poin e som at ck hba family hatc Have you owned dogs before? No

What would you like out of dog ownership? Companionship. I especially need a dog that’s easy to handle on-leash and would be happy to go for just one decent walk per day. My dog would then usually have to be content to just laze around with me while I read a book or watch TV, or have a bit of indoor fetch or tug play. I wouldn’t want a dog that has endless reserves of energy and is bouncing off the walls all the time. So I guess it would have to be quite w adaptable. I’d like a dog that can sho y fairl and ited spir affection but is also t ldn’ wou I . ded independently min want a total couch potato or a dog I that’s very aloof. On the other hand, ally tinu con be to t wan I’d k don’t thin pinned down and showered with constant doggie kisses either – but occasionally is always nice! I prefer dogs that have short or mediumlength hair. I particularly like small breeds that look like miniaturised versions of big breeds – but that’s not essential. Are there any breeds you dislike? Any breed of dog that drools all the time! I’m also not really interested in a very small dog – like the Chihuahua, or a dog that looks excessively delicate t (except the Whippet). I also wouldn’ at – lic pha hyce brac ’s that want a dog least not debilitatingly so.

www.dogsmonthly.co.uk

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What breeds/types do you have on your shortlist? Beagle, French Bulldog, Boston Terrier, Schipperke, Swedish Vallhund, Whippet, Miniature Schnauzer, Staffordshire Bull Terrier, the smaller Poodles and the Alaskan Klee Kai. I’d also consider getting a mongrel or mixed breed. I like dogs that are friendly but seem quite laid-back and get on with most dogs and people. I’d also rather my dog wasn’t overly skittish. As a first-time dog owner, this would worry me insofar as the dog being safe around very young children, or adults who don’t know how to approach a dog properly. How much exercise will you realistically give every day? One walk a day – definitely of at least one hour in length, but frequently two hours or more. Usually at least half an hour of that time would be spent running free off-leash in a completely enclosed cricket ground – often with other dogs. I want a dog that’ll be happy to go out in any weather – except very icy and slippery conditions. Would a dog that required a lot of grooming put you off? Yes. I wouldn’t want to have to do more than brush my dog once a day – maybe twice occasionally if absolutely necessar y. Plus the occasional shower when required. Would a dog that needed professional grooming be a problem? Yes. I wouldn’t want the extra expense. Would a dog that shed hair be a nuisance? Not necessarily, as long as brushing the dog once or twice a day at least prevented horrible amounts of dog hair on the furniture and carpets. I realise a little bit of hair is only to be expected.

ThIn as e K soci en atio ne n w l C ith lub

Is there any other information that would be useful for our advisers? My need for an easily physically manageable dog is because I have a mobility limitation (spina bifida) that affects my ability to stand still and balanced unaided for more than a few seconds at a time, the way I walk, the speed at which I walk, and the distance I can walk in one go. I don’t need a wheelchair or a mobility scooter, but I do use a walking stick when out walking. I walk at about half the speed of any other reasonably fit middle-aged bloke. Spina bifida isn’t degenerative, but it does mean that I expend a lot more energy than most people do while walking, so I have to pace myself. There would probably be the odd day – maybe once a week or a fortnight – when I’d need to forego the dog walk so I can rest and recharge my batteries. My dog would therefore need to be able to handle that without going berserk with pent-up energy! However, having recently made a point of walking some of my neighbours’ dogs on a regular basis, and also doing some dog walking at an animal shelter in order to ensure that I could handle walking a dog for at least an hour ever y day, I know that I can, quite easily. I’m confident that I’m able to handle the ongoing responsibility.

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November 2017 | 69

22/09/2017 09:25

Dog C finder Trish Mahon Owner/head trainer at www.doginthehouse.co.uk

hris rightly lists companionship as a quality that draws us to dog ownership. The human/canine bond has been proven to be hugely beneficial to the human end of the lead. We are also looking at exciting developments in training companion dogs to do many skills that are helpful to their owners, who, like Chris, may require the assistance of a cane for walking. How about having the TV remote retrieved, or your phone? Post delivered to your lap? No problem! For a dog owner who will need an occasional recharge day, teaching brain games and skills a dog can use indoors would be hugely beneficial. We know that dogs will relax and settle better having spent some time brain training, and the benefits will

ThIn as e K soci en atio ne n w also be an increased bond with l C ith your dog. lub Chris could look at a breed rescue for a young dog who is past the toilet training stage, provided the rescue has a good idea about the dog’s temperament. If he chooses to go for a puppy, finding a reputable breeder who has evidence of health tests is essential. Booking several one-to-one sessions with a trainer/behaviourist to achieve a well-socialised dog would be beneficial for this first-time dog owner. As Chris anticipates a return to part-time work soon, preparing his dog for this separation and the arrival of a dog walker would be important training skills. For Chris and his dog, the golden nugget of their training will be a rock-solid recall.

Trish’s suggestions... Cairn Terrier

Cairn Terrier & Staffordshire Bull Terrier. Photo by Tim Rose (www.timrosephotography.co.uk)

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The Cairn Terrier makes a terrific companion and is also a good choice for a novice dog owner. Grooming requirements are minimal; brushing out twice a week would suffice. This breed is quick to learn, adaptable and outgoing. A little on the smaller size of the breeds Chris looked at, the Cairn Terrier would be easy to manage without a garden, provided he has a good walk, and he would cope well with outings on public transport.

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Staffordshire Bull Terrier

The Staffie is robust, sociable and, with training, would cope well with ‘down time’. He can be high energy or happy to relax when you are. He has a well-deserved reputation for good interactions with strangers when training is in place and this would be an important quality in a dog for Chris. Grooming is minimal, though the breed does shed. As Chris has wisely spent time dog walking at a rescue in preparation for

taking on a dog, he may like to look at a Staffie rescue for a dog past the puppy stage of training.

Whippet

A rescue Whippet is worth considering. The breed’s grooming needs would be met with weekly brushing, but they do appreciate a warm coat for winter outings. As temperament is affected by many factors, including heredity, training and socialisation, a good breed rescue could point you in the direction of a

resilient example of the breed. The Whippet is a lovely breed for sofa sharing, and his energy needs would be met by the time Chris has available. A rescue organisation may require an extension of the fencing height on the balcony, as the breed will chase first and think later. Careful guided introductions to what they will encounter in everyday life will ensure a confident dog.

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www.dogsmonthly.co.uk

22/09/2017 09:26

GIVING FRENCH BULLDOGS THE CHANCE TO LIVE A HEALTHY AND FULFILLED LIFE French Bulldog Saviours is a non-proďŹ t making rescue charity run entirely by volenteers who rescue, rehabilitate and rehome french bulldogs throughout the uk. We strive to give advice and help to anyone who owns or is thinking of owning one of these amazing dogs

Registered charity number - 1163829 french.bulldog.saviours@gmail.com Lindsey - 07714579474 - 01924 520143

frenchbulldogsaviours.org

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25/09/2017 19:07

Dog C finder Bill Lambert Kennel Club’s health and breeder services manager

Norfolk Terrier, German Spitz & Norwich Terrier. Photos by Tim Rose (www.timrosephotography.co.uk)

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hris is at a good time to consider getting a dog; he is currently not working and so would be around at home to help settle in his new dog. Dogs were domesticated thousands of years ago as man’s best friend and it sounds like a dog would make a

perfect companion for Chris and fit in well with his lifestyle. Chris has suggested a good selection of pedigree breeds to consider. He would rather stay away from brachycephalic (short-faced) breeds so we would suggest that he doesn’t consider the

Do your homework

that resulted in ongoing veterinary treatment or death. It is for these reasons that the Kennel Club holds Puppy Awareness Week every September and also recommends that future puppy buyers look at its Assured Breeder Scheme to find a breeder. The scheme sets standards and inspects the premises of dog breeders (the Kennel Club has UKAS accreditation to certify breeders on the scheme, meaning it is robust and impartial). Of course, Chris might also like to consider a rescue dog as his new companion and the Kennel Club has a list of breed rescue clubs on its website. For information on breed rescue and the Assured Breeder Scheme, visit the Kennel Club website at www.thekennelclub.org.uk

Whenever someone is buying a puppy, it is very important to carry out research first. The Kennel Club recently conducted a survey for Puppy Awareness Week, which found that one in five people admit that they spent no time researching where to buy their puppy at all, compared to less than one in ten who are prepared to spontaneously buy shoes! Our survey also showed that more than a third of people admit they are clueless about how to find a reputable breeder and are therefore vulnerable to the scams that should ring alarm bells. More than one in three fail to see the puppy with his mum – a classic sign of a puppy farmer – and more than two in five of those said their puppy suffered from serious health problems in the first six months, including problems

French Bulldog or the Boston Terrier. All the other breeds he mentions are possibilities and others that he might also like to consider include the Dachshund, Border Terrier, German Spitz, Welsh Corgi, Bichon Frise or one of the short-legged terriers, such as a Norfolk or Norwich.

Train timetable

As with any new dog owner, it will be very important for Chris to train his new arrival and make sure, from an early age, that he gives his puppy the necessary socialisation. Training a dog is an obligation, and not just something that needs to be done when problems occur. The Kennel Club runs the Good Citizen Dog Scheme, which is open to all dogs, regardless of age or breed, and has four levels – from Puppy Foundation, which teaches basic training skills and socialisation, to the gold award, which is the highest level. The scheme is nationwide with clubs all over the UK. More information can be found at www.thekennel club.org.uk

www.dogsmonthly.co.uk

22/09/2017 09:26

Chris mentions that he has a balcony with a four-foot wall, so he should avoid an active breed that can jump. The breeds suggested are not known to be ‘jumpers’, but this is something that Chris should discuss with the breeder.

I Dr Jane Tyson Scientific officer at the RSPCA

Discover Dogs

On 21 and 22 October, the Kennel Club will be holding Discover Dogs at ExCeL in London. Perhaps Chris might like to consider a day out to visit the event, which sees over 200 breeds of dogs at the show, with breed experts who can tell you all about the breeds and offer really good advice. In addition, there are representatives from breed rescues and demos by the Good Citizen Dog Scheme, not to mention many fun competitions, dog and animal charities, and over 100 trade stands, selling everything and anything for dogs. It’s the perfect place for any potential dog owner to find out more about the wonderful world of dogs and what is involved in owning one. Visit www.discoverdogs.org.uk

t sounds like Chris has given lots of consideration to owning a dog, and the fact he’s been voluntarily dog walking in preparation is a really responsible thing to do. I’m certain that when he finds the right dog, it will really enrich both their lives. The fact that he is open to lots of different dogs is going to make his search for a perfect

ThIn as e K soci en atio ne n w pooch much l C ith easier. While all lub dogs need regular exercise and Chris is well prepared to provide daily walks, there are some individuals who will be content with a bit less exercise than others, which would fit in with Chris’s lifestyle and the odd day when he may not be up to as much exercise. We have tried to find the most suitable RSPCA rescue dogs here...

Jane’s suggestions... Smartie

12-year-old male Parson Jack Russell Terrier RSPCA Bath Dogs & Cats Home 01225 787321 Smartie is a friendly chap, looking to be someone’s companion. He loves being outside, having a sniff, and also curled up in his bed. He’d be comfortable in an adult-only household and likes company – in fact, he’d prefer to have someone with him most of the time, which would be ideal for Chris’s lifestyle. However, Smartie isn’t demanding – he takes a little fuss once settled and will join you on the sofa for a snooze. A fab older chap, looking for a fellow explorer, gardener, potterer, he’s young at heart and likes playing games and with his toys.

Lottie

12 year-old female Staffordshire Bull Terrier RSPCA Basingstoke & Andover Branch 01256 353209 Golden girl Lottie is the sweetest dog with lots of love to give. Despite her age, she has no health issues and is by no means a doddery old lady. She’s had a bit of a sad past, as her owner became too poorly to care for her and her companion, so the pair came to be us to be rehomed. Sadly, Lottie’s companion dog became really poorly and was put to sleep, so Lottie is ready for a fresh start to get on with her own life. Lottie would be happy to go on nice, calm walks with Chris before coming back home to a comfy bed – she’d soon become Chris’s best friend! She’d be happy with whatever exercise Chris could offer, and would have to be the only pet in a household with no children, so Chris could offer the ideal home.

Bluebell

One-year-old female crossbreed RSPCA Brighton 01273 554218 Bluebell is a sweet, friendly girl, who can be a little shy until she knows you, but she should have no problem at all bonding in a single-person household and will show plenty of love once she is settled. She walks nicely on the lead and is calm with other dogs, making her a perfect walking companion for Chris. She likes a few select toys, but doesn’t go mad, and is a good girl to groom when needed. This lovely young dog would be happy in Chris’s calm household, and although she gets worried by loud noises, with some further training and encouragement she will no doubt make a really super, rewarding companion. www.dogsmonthly.co.uk

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Dog finder James Farrell Veterinary surgeon

Whippet. Photo by Tim Rose (www.timrosephotography.co.uk) & Silken Windhound

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ven though you are a first-time dog owner, you have very sensibly volunteered with dogs, so you have a realistic view of how one will fit into your life and how you will cope. You also seem to have done some research. A few of the more unusual, relatively unknown breeds pop up on your potential list. If you are avoiding brachycephalic breeds, then that would cut out the French Bulldog and Boston Terrier. Also, some breeds, like the Alaskan Klee Kai, will need more space than a large balcony and certainly more grooming than a quick brush, as they have the thick, insulating coat of their larger counterparts. If you are going to socialise your dog as thoroughly as you are planning, then most of your listed breeds, temperament-wise, would suit. A large problem with the more standoffish or excitable breeds is inadequate socialisation as a pup. If you rehome an older dog, that is something you would need to be aware of.

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Lancashire Heeler

One breed that seems to fit in with a lot of what you want in a dog is the Lancashire Heeler, a smart little working dog, bred to do the same work as the Swedish Vallhund. The black and tan coat is short and easily managed; they are outgoing, active dogs who also love company. Health-wise the Kennel Club ask Assured Breeders to eye test under the BVA scheme and also to DNA test for primary lens luxation (where the eyes lens falls into the wrong position and can cause blindness and pain). The DNA test for collie eye anomaly (a problem with the development of the retina) is also recommended. Many small breeds, like the Heeler, can suffer with patella luxation (where the kneecap slips out of position and the dog skips along). As for looking like a mini version of a larger breed, if you squint a bit, you could convince yourself that a Heeler is a tiny Rottweiler!

Schipperke

The Schipperke is another small herding type (possibly a mini Belgian Shepherd or a barge ratter – the breed origins are not fully clear). He is, however, a spirited, outgoing dog who loves to be with people. There is a DNA test for mucopolysaccharidosis type IIIB, a condition that causes sugar molecules in the body to build up. The condition sounds mild, but it actually interferes with cell function and can cause problems in the brain, affecting movement and co-ordination. LeggCalve-Perthes disease, a degenerative condition affecting the hip joint, has also been mentioned in this breed.

Silken Windhound

As you mention liking smaller versions of big breeds, there is also the Silken Windhound, bred to look like a mini Borzoi. Its background is in Whippets and it is a relatively new breed.

Whippet

Finally, you mention the Whippet, a lovely wellknown breed. It would suit all your requirements. Many do feel the cold and enjoy their home comforts, but don’t forget that this is a breed with working roots and it is still as much a working dog as it ever was. Health-wise the KC has no recommended health tests but there is mention of deafness in some dogs with large white patches, and also eye luxation and autoimmune haemolytic anaemia.

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22/09/2017 09:27

Rescue choice

Kirsten Dillon Dog trainer and behaviourist

think it is fantastic that Chris has identified his wants and needs while being realistic, something that will ensure his best chance of successful dog ownership. Importantly, he has admitted that there may be brief periods when the dog cannot be walked, which, with the right breed, is not a problem at all with sufficient mental stimulation.

I think an adolescent or slightly older rescue dog will fit in here perfectly, as opposed to a very young puppy. If a rescue is considered, I would always recommend a Staffordshire Bull Terrier. Chris will be able to see the actual size of the dog and be provided with a report on its temperament, personality and preferences, all of which will help him make a well-informed decision. He can also decide if he feels comfortable around the dog, allowing him to consider his physical disability and whatever limitations that may bring. Additionally, toilet training should be in place, which is a consideration when you live in a flat (even with a balcony). It will also be easier to ascertain whether the dog is an athletic escapee too, because if it is, a four-foot wall won’t contain it. Either way, I would advise that the height is extended with fencing regardless.

Kooikerhondje. Photo by Tim Rose (www.timrosephotography.co.uk)

Kooikerhondje

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Dog Finder.indd 75

If we are looking at puppies, I would recommend the Kooikerhondje – a breed that fits in with every one of Chris’s preferences. A spaniel type that originated in the Netherlands,

Kooikers are medium-sized, friendly, gentle dogs. They can live without large gardens and a varied 60-minute daily walk is usually enough. Their coat care is minimal and they are not heavy shedders (a brush twice a week should be sufficient with more attention in spring and autumn when shedding can increase). A Kooiker would also be the perfect choice to train in assistance tasks, such as turning lights on and off, picking up dropped items, and fetching things like the telephone. They love training and it comes naturally to them. Because of their size and calm personalities, public transport and taxi travel wouldn’t be a problem.

Two Minis

From Chris’s shortlist, I like the Miniature Schnauzer and Miniature Poodle. Both breeds fit his criteria well and again, have proven track records as sociable, trainable dogs. Both are used as assistance dogs with huge success. Whichever breed is chosen, it is important to research the breeder carefully, meet the puppy’s mother, and always ensure the breed specific health checks have been carried out.

ThIn as e K soci en atio n n Find el C with lub my dog!

If you would lik e our panel of experts to help you find your perfect soulm ate, email claire @ petsubjects.co .uk with ‘Find my Dog’ in the su bject line, or write to Dogs M onthly at the address on page 3.

Update! Having read the advice, Chris says, “I’ve decided that I’ll be more inclined to go for a breed of perhaps the toy kind that doesn’t need so much exercise – maybe even a Chihuahua! Not a very manly dog, I know, but if it’s the right dog for you – then why not? “Either that or one of the slightly bigger and heavier, but lazier breeds – that still need a daily walk but wouldn’t be so fast on their feet. And importantly, would be much less unpredictably skittish around people and other dogs. “I realise that dogs with ‘smushed-in’ faces and bulgy eyes have their own set of health concerns, but lots of people have them, so on balance, in spite of what I originally said on my form, I actually would be prepared to take one on and be vigilant to its issues.”

〉

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Dogs &people

“Our stunning girl” A staff member from Heart Welfare came to visit us for a home-check, informed us about her full assessment and brought more photographs. After looking through all her pictures, that beautiful innocent face just stole our hearts. We couldn’t envisage why this poor girl had been given up by her original family, and were desperate to find out more about her story. Trixie’s statement said that she had been used for breeding multiple times, to the extent that the vet had told her owners she was unable to carry any more litters, and if she did, she might not survive. In other words, she had been used as a breeding machine, and this was why she had been given up. Her story broke our hearts and we agreed to foster her for a minimum four-week placement, and give her a loving chance.

Moving in

T he Trophy 201 7

Best friends

Matthew drove to pick Trixie up – a tiring nine-hour round trip, but she was good as gold on the journey home. When they arrived, we introduced her to our other dog, Oscar, a three-year-old Siberian HuskyAlaskan Malamute cross, and were so pleased at the way they responded to each other. We then carefully introduced her to our 20-month-old daughter Matilda and again, Trixie was just lovely with her. After only two days, Trixie had settled in well with the whole family, and it gave us such a lovely warm feeling inside to know that we were able to provide a welcoming foster home for her. Trixie is a very gentle girl, with a deeply nurturing manner, which could be due to the number of litters she had to endure during the early years of her life. She is caring and loving towards Matilda, and

Meet MATTHEW NEEDHAM, his partner KAYTE FLYNN and TRIXIE – our next nominees for the HiLife ‘Best friends’ Trophy 2017

rixie came into our lives when a friend of ours introduced us to Heart Welfare (Husky Education Aid Rescue Team) as potential fosterers. The rescue contacted us with details of an eightyear-old Siberian Husky who needed a foster home – there was just a short description of her situation and a picture – but before we even had a chance to read about her, we fell in love with her sweet little face and could see her gentle personality shining through her gleaming eyes.

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www.dogsmonthly.co.uk

22/09/17 11:28

The HiL ife ‘Best friends’ Trophy What does your dog mean to you? Tell us about him, and the bond you share, and you could be our ‘Best friends’ champions of 2017!

Pets win prizes

they’ve achieved a strong bond that continues to grow. They often curl up together on the couch for a snooze and it’s so lovely to see. Trixie is very polite and well mannered, and listens intently to commands. She settled in brilliantly with Oscar, and they love to go on adventures together, exploring lots of exciting new smells, then relax and sleep on the sofa – unsurprisingly, sleeping is a favourite hobby they both share! It wasn’t long before we came to the conclusion that we couldn’t abandon Trixie, and asked Heart Welfare if we could adopt her. We’re so happy that we’ve been able to provide this stunning girl with her forever home; a home where she can be loved and treasured after all she’s been through.

Loving life

Trixie loves her walks. As soon as she hears the jingle of the harnesses and leads, she sits by the front door, waiting patiently to go outside – but if you take just a second too long to get ready, she’ll let out a gentle howl to remind you she’s waiting! Matthew has recently started bikejoring with Oscar and Trixie, which they both love. Trixie is up front – the leader – as she can run for Britain. She just keeps going, and is never distracted by anything when she runs. Oscar, on the other hand, is more of a follower, which works perfectly – basically, he chases her, but she’s just too fast for him so she always stays ahead. It makes the hobby enjoyable for all three of them – they are great team workers! We just can’t imagine our family without Trixie now. She has fulfilled our lives in so many ways. c

Each month, the dogs featured in ‘Best friends’ will receive four 1.5kg bags of HiLife FEED ME! This range is nutritionally balanced and contains all the goodness of dry foods, but is softer, meatier and tastier. Its popular varieties contain high-quality meat ingredients and no artificial colours or flavours. Those featured also win three jars of HiLife Special Care Daily Dental Chews. These help reduce tartar buildup, control plaque and maintain strong teeth, healthy gums and fresher breath.

Overall winner

At the end of the series, Dogs Monthly readers will be invited to vote for the ‘Best friends’ they think most deserve to win the HiLife Trophy. Voting will commence following publication of the last featured entry in the April 2018 issue. The overall winner will receive the HiLife Trophy to keep for life, engraved with their name and their dog’s, plus a six-month supply of the HiLife dog food of their choice (up to a value of £300).

About HiLife

The HiLife brand of high-quality dog foods is owned by family-run Town & Country Petfoods Ltd, based in Leicestershire. To discover more about the nutritious range of HiLife dog food, find the brand on Facebook at HiLifeDog, follow it on twitter @HiLifeDog or visit www.hilifepet.co.uk

How to enter

Send us your story (between 500 and 800 words), along with a selection of good-quality images that include at least one picture of you and your dog together. Email bestfriends@dogsmonthly.co.uk with ‘HiLife Best Friends’ in the subject line, or post your entry to HiLife Best Friends, Dogs Monthly, The Old Print House, 62 High Street, Chobham, Surrey GU24 8AA.

• Digital pictures should be saved as hi-

res jpegs (min 300dpi) and at as large a file size as possible – ideally, each image should be at least 2mb. If you’re taking new pictures, set your camera to its highest quality setting, so that it captures the most pixels it’s capable of.

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HiLife Best Friends Nov.indd 77

Rules of entry

• From the entries received, 12 •

• If you’re entering by post, send clear, good •

quality prints only, not photocopies, and enclose an SAE if you’d like them returned. Nominations will be accepted until 28 February 2018, but the sooner you enter, the more chance you have of being featured one month!

•

will be chosen. Nominees will be featured in each issue from May 2017 to April 2018. The overall winner receives the HiLife Trophy and can choose from the range of HiLife dog food to the prize value of £300. They can make their choice from the HiLife website, or speak to a HiLife representative about the various options. Employees of Pet Subjects Ltd and Town & Country Petfoods Ltd are not eligible for entry.

November 2017| 77

22/09/17 11:29

IS YOUR PET READY FOR FIREWORK SEASON? Try: Higher Nature Pets Calm Perfect for when pets are feeling anxious Theanine increases feelings of calm Tryptophan helps reduce anxiety Added magnesium, a natural relaxant Easy dose powder, just mix with meals.

For further information please call Freephone 0800 458 4747 or visit www.highernature.com 50p from every pack sold in the UK is donated to Blue Cross for Pets. Registered as a charity in England and Wales (224392) and in Scotland (SC040154)

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Life-changing Education Courses in

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18/11/13 09:51:51

25/09/2017 19:12

Your canine problems solved

Queries

Dogs Monthly has teamed up with the UK’s leading experts in all canine fields to offer you professional advice for FREE! If you have a specific problem or just want some general advice, please get in touch. Email gill.s@dogsmonthly.co.uk with ‘K9 Queries’ in the subject line, or write to K9 Queries, Dogs Monthly, The Old Print House, 62 High St, Chobham, Surrey GU24 8AA

Inside this issue...

80 Veterinary & complementary therapies Maintaining a dog’s target weight, heart murmurs, dietary indiscretion, colloidal silver, and what to do if your dog has a seizure. Plus pest control in winter, tail injuries, the dangers of xylitol, and “How will my old dog cope with an operation?” 86 Behaviour & training Marking territory, communication issues, and ways to calm noisy dogs and children. Plus dogs that pull, eating faeces, stressful vet visits, and “Why is my puppy so nervous about meeting people?” 92 General care & advice Grooming a Labrador, stained feet, itches and food intolerance, and what to feed on bonfire night. Plus eating too fast, grooming anxiety, crate training a puppy, and “When will I know when she’s about to give birth?” ● Any views or advice given here should not be taken as a substitute for medical advice, treatment or training, especially if you are aware your pet has a specific medical or behavioural complaint. When complementary therapies are mentioned, please seek the advice of a specialist vet regarding dosage, use and suitability for your pet. The authors cannot be held responsible for applications of any of the recommendations, advice or opinions contained therein. If you have any reason to be concerned about your pet’s well-being, please consult your vet or dog trainer.

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Ask the experts... Tim Couzens BVetMed, MRCVS, VetMFHom, CertVetAC runs a referral centre for complementary veterinary medicine near Lewes in East Sussex, offering homeopathy, acupuncture, herbal medicine and other therapies.

Nick Jones MA is a member of the Canine and Feline Behaviour Association. A canine behaviour specialist, Nick takes pride in resolving issues that owners are experiencing with their dogs. These can range from puppy visits to cases of aggression.

Graham Finch BVSc, CertVD, MRCVS treats ailments in dogs, cats and other family pets. He has a particular interest in patients with skin diseases. He is currently owned by a Labrador, a Cocker, a “scruffy” Border Terrier, plus two cats.

James Farrell BVetMed, CertSAS, MRCVS has been a vet for 18 years and has worked for the PDSA as well as in private practice. He now works as a visiting referral veterinary surgeon across the Peak District, performing orthopaedic, soft tissue and keyhole procedures.

Stuart Simons is vice chair of the British Dog Groomers’ Association, director of grooming for the Pet Industry Federation, and a Master Groomer for the National Association of Professional Creative Groomers. He owns Groom Dog City, a leading grooming salon in London.

Sue Gilmore MA BSc (Hons) is the political adviser to the Pet Education, Training and Behaviour Council (PETbc), and is a professional dog trainer, behaviourist and photographer. She runs the Essex Dog Academy and Gilmores Dog Photography.

Kirsten Dillon A.DIP CBM is a qualified dog trainer and behaviourist at KD Canine Specialist. She lives in Surrey with her husband and children, Louis the French Bulldog, David Meowie the Maine Coone cat, and Nope, a tarantula.

Sue Williams BSc is chair of the Guild of Dog Trainers and a member of the Canine and Feline Behaviour Association. She specialises in dog training and behaviour using methods based on understanding and communication. She runs The Canine Centre.

Paul Manktelow BVMS MSc GP Cert DMS MRCVS regularly appears on our TV screens as a leading vet. Paul is also principal veterinary surgeon at the UK’s largest veterinary charity PDSA and is the founder of the pet health website vitalpethealth.co.uk

Anna Cherry BSc, BVSc, MRCVS graduated from Liverpool Vet School in 2006. She has worked in small animal practice, and has set up and run her own mobile vet service. She has a special interest in both canine nutrition and internal medicine, and lives with her Golden Retriever Chester, and partner Ed.

Alison Logan MA, VetMB, MRCVS has worked in smallanimal practice since qualifying as a vet in 1989. She enjoys consulting and has a special interest in internal medicine. She has also written for various magazines, books and professional publications.

John Burns is a veterinary surgeon, qualified acupuncturist and the owner of Burns Pet Nutrition. For nearly 40 years he has been promoting the concept of wholefoods as a way of managing health problems in pets. He also enjoys live music and cycling.

K9 Queries is sponsored by

November 2017 | 79

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Veterinary & Complementary Therapies

Labrador. Posed by a model

Queries

Maintaining target weight 10-year-old Labrador Retriever, Ellen, enrolled with my Q My vet practice’s weight management clinic two years ago,

weighing 40kg. She achieved her target of 30kg earlier this year and looks fantastic. However, when I called in at the practice to weigh Ellen recently, I found that she has started putting on weight again – not very much, but I really don’t want her to put on any more. I am feeding her the same amount of the same food that I’ve been feeding since she reached her target weight, and I have checked with all the family that no one is giving her extras. What can have gone wrong? ALISON LOGAN ADVISES... You seem certain that Ellen is still eating the same amount of food. You’ve not changed the food, and no bad habits with titbits or other

extras have crept back in. I would therefore suspect that Ellen’s energy output has decreased, so she’s not burning off the food she is eating in

Shed the pounds in 2017!

GB Burns Original Chicken & Brown Rice Composition : Brown Rice (67%), Chicken Meal (20%), Oats, Peas, Chicken Oil, Sunflower Oil, Seaweed, Vitamins & Minerals.

GB Burns Original

Chicken & Brown Rice

Composition : Brown Rice (67%), Chicken Meal (20%), Oats, Peas, Chicken Oil, Sunflower Oil, Seaweed, Vitamins & Minerals.

Nutritional Additives : Vit A 25,000 iu/kg, Vit D3 2,000 iu/Kg, Vit E 100 iu/Kg, Calcium Iodate Anhydrous 1.5mg/kg, Cupric Sulphate Pentahydrate 55mg/kg, Sodium Selenite 0.6 mg/kg, Ferrous Sulphate Monohydrate 160mg/kg, Manganous Sulphate Monohydrate 100mg/kg, Zinc Sulphate Monohydrate 130mg/kg

Analytical Constituents : Crude Protein 18.5%, Crude Oils & Fats 7.5%, Crude Fibre 2.2%, Crude Ash 6%, Copper 18mg/kg, Sodium 0.13%, Calcium 1.15%, Phosphorus 0.70%, Magnesium 0.10%, Potassium 0.32%, Sulphur 0.27%, Chloride 0.20%, Essential Fatty Acids 2.09%. Nutritional Additives : Vit A 25,000 iu/kg, Vit D3 2,000 iu/Kg, Vit E 100 iu/Kg, Calcium Iodate Anhydrous 1.5mg/kg, Cupric Sulphate Pentahydrate 55mg/kg, Sodium Selenite 0.6 mg/kg, Ferrous Sulphate Monohydrate 160mg/kg, Manganous Sulphate Monohydrate 100mg/kg, Zinc Sulphate Monohydrate 130mg/kg

I Burns Original Pollo e Riso Integrale Ingredienti : Riso integrale (67%), farina di pollo (20%), avena, piselli, olio di pollo, olio di semi di girasole, alghe marine, vitamine e minerali.

I Burns Original

Tenori analitici : Proteine grezze 18,5%, olii e grassi grezzi 7,5%, fibre grezze 2,2%, ceneri gregge 6%, rame 18mg/kg, sodio 0,13%, calcio 1,15%, fosforo 0,70%, magnesio 0,10%, acidi grassi essenziali 2,09%, potassio 0,32%, zolfo 0,27%, cloruro 0,20%.

Pollo e Riso Integrale

life lthy g hea a lon

Additivi Nutrizionali : Vit A 25,000 UI/kg, Vit D3 2,000 UI/kg, Vit E 100 UI/kg, iodato di calcio anidro 1,5 mg/kg, selenito di sodio 0,6 mg/kg, solfato di ferro monoidrato 160mg/kg, solfato rameico pentaidrato 55mg/kg, solfato manganoso monoidrato 100mg/kg, solfato di zinco monoidrato 130mg/kg.

F Burns Original Poulet et Riz complet

for trition al nu Natur

Composition : Riz complet (67%), Farine de poulet (20%), Petits pois, Huile de poulet, Huile de tournesol, Algues, Vitamines et Minéraux.

F Burns Original

Constituants Analytiques : Protéines Brutes 18,5%, Matières Grasses Brutes 7,5%, Fibres Brutes 2,2%, Cendres Brutes 6%, Cuivre 18mg/kg, Sodium 0,13%, Calcium 1,15%, Phosphore 0,70%, Magnésium 0,10%, Acides gras essentiels 2,09%, Potassium 0,32%, Soufre 0,27%, Chlorure 0,20%.

Poulet et Riz complet

Composition : Riz complet (67%), Farine de poulet (20%), Petits pois, Huile de poulet, Huile de tournesol, Algues, Vitamines et Minéraux.

Additifs Nutritionnels : Vit A 25,000 UI/kg, Vit D3 2,000 UI/kg, Vit E 100 UI/kg, Iodate de Calcium Anhydre 1,5 mg/kg, Sélénite de Sodium 0,6 mg/kg, Sulfate Ferreux Monohydraté 160mg/kg, Sulfate de Cuivre Pentahydraté 55mg/kg, Sulfate Manganeux Monohydraté 100mg/kg, Sulfate de Zinc Monohydraté 130mg/kg

D Burns Original Huhn & Brauner Reis Ein Komplettfutter für ausgewachsene und ältere Hunde aller Rassen.

D Burns Original

Inhaltsstoffe : Brauner Reis (67%), Hühnermehl (20%), Hafer, Erbsen, Hühneröl, Sonnenblumenöl, Seetang, Vitamine & Mineralstoffe.

Huhn & Brauner Reis

Burns food is intended to ensure good health in all ages and breeds of adult dogs. This variety is also approved as a DIETETIC FOOD for the nutritional management of:

The reduction of ingredient and nutrient intolerances. The support of skin function in case of dermatosis and excessive loss of hair.

The regulation of lipid metabolism in case of hyperlipidaemia.

The compensation for maldigestion.

The support of liver function in case of chronic liver insufficiency.

lthy g hea a lon

Suitable for the support of renal function in case of chronic renal insufficiency and reduction of struvite stone recurrence if fed in conjunction with Burns Hypo - Allergenic Mixer.

for rition l nut Natura

The regulation of lipid metabolism in case of hyperlipidaemia.

life

The support of liver function in case of chronic liver insufficiency. Suitable for the support of renal function in case of chronic renal insufficiency and reduction of struvite stone recurrence if fed in conjunction with Burns Hypo - Allergenic Mixer.

Please contact our nutritionists for more information.

Our team of nutrition experts can help you get the best results from Burns. Whether you need in-depth advice on managing specific health problems or simply fine tuning feeding amounts, Burns has the experience and knowledge to help.

Email : info@burnspet.co.uk

Inhaltsstoffe : Brauner Reis (67%), Hühnermehl (20%), Hafer, Erbsen, Hühneröl, Sonnenblumenöl, Seetang, Vitamine & Mineralstoffe. Analytische Bestandteile : Rohprotein 18,5%, Rohöle und -fette 7,5%, Rohfaser 2,2%, Rohasche 6%, Kupfer 18mg/kg, Natrium 0,13%, Kalzium 1,15%, Phosphor 0,70%, Magnesium 0,10%, essenzielle Fettsäuren 2,09%, Kalium 0,32%, Schwefel 0,27%, Chlorid 0,20%. Zusatzstoffe : Vit. A 25,000 IE/kg, Vit. D3 2,000 IE/kg, Vit. E 100 IE/kg, Calciumjodat wasserfrei 1,5 mg/kg, Natriumselenit 0,6 mg/kg, Eisensulfat Monohydrat 160mg/kg, Kupfersulfat Pentahydrat 55mg/kg, Mangansulfat Monohydrat 100mg/kg, Zinksulfat Monohydrat 130mg/kg.

Nutrition Helpline : 0800 083 66 96

Email : info@burnspet.co.uk

We recommend that a Veterinary Surgeon’s opinion be sought on how to best manage the above conditions.

E Burns Original de pollo y arroz integral E Burns Original

Ingredientes: Arroz integral (67%), pasta de pollo (20%), guisantes, avena, grasa de pollo, aceite de girasol, algas marinas, vitaminas y minerales.

gr/giorno. g/jour. g/Tag. g/día Anziano. Senior. Älterer Hund. Senior

20 - 40g 40 - 80g 80 - 160g 160 - 240g 240 - 320g 320 - 400g

Get in touch, we’d love to hear from you...

Email : info@burnspet.co.uk www.burnspet.co.uk burnspet.co.uk/facebook burnspet.co.uk/twitter burnspet.co.uk/youtube Burns Pet Nutrition Ltd, Ferry Rd, Kidwelly, Carmarthenshire, SA17 5EJ

80 | November 2017

K9Q Vet.indd 80

de pollo y arroz integral

FREE PET NUTRITION HELPLINE: 0800 083 66 96

Ingredientes: Arroz integral (67%), pasta de pollo (20%), guisantes, avena, grasa de pollo, aceite de girasol, algas marinas, vitaminas y minerales.

All Breeds. All Breeds. PO-ALLERGENIC • NATURAL • VITAMINS • GOODNESS • HYPO-ALLERGENIC PO-ALLERGENIC • NATURAL • VITAMINS • GOODNESSAdult • Senior LERGENIC • NATURAL • VITAMINS • GOODNESS • HYPO-ALLERGENIC Adult • •Senior LERGENIC NATURAL • VITAMINS • GOODNESS NATURAL • VITAMINS • GOODNESS • HYPO-ALLERGENIC • NATURAL IC • NATURAL • VITAMINS • GOODNESS • HYPO-ALLERGENIC VITAMINS • GOODNESS • HYPO-ALLERGENIC • NATURAL URAL • VITAMINS • GOODNESS • HYPO-ALLERGENIC Chicken & Oats Chicken & Oats VITAMINS • AGOODNESS • HYPO-ALLERGENIC • NATURAL • VITAMINS great source of soluble fibre making it ideal for overweight dogs VITAMINS • GOODNESS • HYPO-ALLERGENIC A great source of soluble fibre making it ideal for overweight dogs Low Glycaemic Index making it ideal for diabetic dogs GOODNESS • HYPO-ALLERGENIC • NATURAL • VITAMINS Low• Glycaemic Index making it ideal for diabetic dogs MINS GOODNESS • HYPO-ALLERGENIC •GOODNESS NATURAL Contains everything needed for health & wellbeing and nothing else! Contains everything needed for healthGet & wellbeing nothing • HYPO-ALLERGENIC • NATURAL • VITAMINS • GOODNESS in touch,and we’d love toelse! hear from you... GOODNESS • HYPO-ALLERGENIC • NATURAL HYPO-ALLERGENIC GOODNESS NESS HYPO-ALLERGENIC HYPO-ALLERGENIC 5060084770294 HYPO-ALLERGENIC PO-ALLERGENIC HYPO-ALLERGENIC Healthy Hypo-Allergenic Healthy Naturally Higher in PO-ALLERGENIC Healthy Hypo-Allergenic Healthy Naturally Higher in Skin & Coat & Complete Digestion Delicious Natural Fibre Skin & Coat & Complete Digestion Delicious Natural Fibre LERGENIC • NATURAL • VITAMINS • GOODNESS • HYPO-ALLERGENIC LERGENIC • NATURAL • VITAMINS • GOODNESS Análisis del producto: Proteínas 18,5%, Grasas 7,5%, Fibra 2,2%, Ceniza 6%, Cobre 18mg/kg, Sodio 0,13%, Calcio 1,15%, Fósforo 0,7%, Magnesio 0,1%, Ácidos grasos esenciales 2,09%, Potasio 0,32%, Sulfitos 0,27%, Sales 0,2%.

Aditivos Nutricionales: Vit A 25,000 ui/kg, Vit D3 2,000 ui/kg, Vit E 100 ui/kg, Yodato de cálcico anhidro 1,5mg/kg, Selenito de sodio 0,6mg/kg, Sulfato ferroso monohidratado 160mg/kg, Sulfato cúprico pentahidratado 55mg/kg, Sulfato manganoso monohidratado 100mg/kg, Sulfato de zinc monohidratado 130mg/kg.

WEIGHT CONTROL + Indicazioni per l’uso. Rations quotidiennes approximatives. Tägliche Futtermenge. Indicaciones para la alimentación.

gr/giorno. g/jour. g/Tag. g/día

Anziano. Senior. Älterer Hund. Senior

20 - 40g 40 - 80g 80 - 160g 160 - 240g 240 - 320g 320 - 400g

WEIGHT CONTROL+

Email : info@burnspet.co.uk www.burnspet.co.uk burnspet.co.uk/facebook burnspet.co.uk/twitter burnspet.co.uk/youtube Burns Pet Nutrition Ltd, Ferry Rd, Kidwelly, Carmarthenshire, SA17 5EJ

15kg

150

SCAN ME

Indicazioni per l’uso. Rations quotidiennes approximatives. Tägliche Futtermenge. Indicaciones para la alimentación.

SCAN ME

Análisis del producto: Proteínas 18,5%, Grasas 7,5%, Fibra 2,2%, Ceniza 6%, Cobre 18mg/kg, Sodio 0,13%, Calcio 1,15%, Fósforo 0,7%, Magnesio 0,1%, Ácidos grasos esenciales 2,09%, Potasio 0,32%, Sulfitos 0,27%, Sales 0,2%. Aditivos Nutricionales: Vit A 25,000 ui/kg, Vit D3 2,000 ui/kg, Vit E 100 ui/kg, Yodato de cálcico anhidro 1,5mg/kg, Selenito de sodio 0,6mg/kg, Sulfato ferroso monohidratado 160mg/kg, Sulfato cúprico pentahidratado 55mg/kg, Sulfato manganoso monohidratado 100mg/kg, Sulfato de zinc monohidratado 130mg/kg.

Burns Weight Control+ has been designed to help dogs reach and maintain a healthy weight. High in fibre and naturally delicious, it’s ideal for overweight dogs.

Please contact our nutritionists for more information.

Nutrition Helpline : 0800 083 66 96

Ein Komplettfutter für ausgewachsene und ältere Hunde aller Rassen.

Analytische Bestandteile : Rohprotein 18,5%, Rohöle und -fette 7,5%, Rohfaser 2,2%, Rohasche 6%, Kupfer 18mg/kg, Natrium 0,13%, Kalzium 1,15%, Phosphor 0,70%, Magnesium 0,10%, essenzielle Fettsäuren 2,09%, Kalium 0,32%, Schwefel 0,27%, Chlorid 0,20%. Zusatzstoffe : Vit. A 25,000 IE/kg, Vit. D3 2,000 IE/kg, Vit. E 100 IE/kg, Calciumjodat wasserfrei 1,5 mg/kg, Natriumselenit 0,6 mg/kg, Eisensulfat Monohydrat 160mg/kg, Kupfersulfat Pentahydrat 55mg/kg, Mangansulfat Monohydrat 100mg/kg, Zinksulfat Monohydrat 130mg/kg.

Burns food is intended to ensure good health in all ages and breeds of adult dogs. This variety is also approved as a DIETETIC FOOD for the nutritional management of:

The compensation for maldigestion.

Ingredienti : Riso integrale (67%), farina di pollo (20%), avena, piselli, olio di pollo, olio di semi di girasole, alghe marine, vitamine e minerali.

the same way that she was earlier in the year. At this time of year, the back door is probably no longer left open, providing free access to the garden, even if just for a mooch. Dog walks may be shorter because daylight hours are shorter, and you may be put off from walking as far as you normally do by cold, wet and windy weather. At weekends in the summer, Ellen was probably more active outside while you were in the garden, and she may have had longer or more frequent walks if you weren’t at work. It is not unusual to see our successful canine slimmers slide back a little as summer gives way to autumn and winter. It is, however, important to recognise that it is happening, and to do something about it. Ideally, increasing the exercise, if possible, will help, but walking in the dark is never a pleasant pastime. Cutting back the amount of food fed is the alternative approach, but you may need to bulk it out with greens so that Ellen still feels full. A change to a lower-calorie diet may be needed, so I would suggest that you make an appointment at your vet practice’s weight clinic. The veterinary nurse will weigh and measure Ellen and advise on whether a change in diet is needed. Simply addressing the question of exercise may be suggested initially, with a return appointment in two to four weeks to weigh Ellen again, and perhaps look at her diet at that point, if the weight isn’t coming off or is still going up. Have you thought about hydrotherapy? There are not many Labrador Retrievers who don’t like swimming! This is a non-weightbearing form of exercise that Ellen should enjoy, and it would help keep the weight gain at bay. Please don’t lose heart. You and Ellen have done really well, and it’s invariably easiest to slim a dog; much harder to keep them at their target weight once reached – particularly as the days shorten and the weather deteriorates.

7.5kg

meals*

•

Developed by Veterinary Surgeon

BVMS MRCVS

7.5kg

meals*

www.dogsmonthly.co.uk

22/09/2017 09:58

Winter pest control three-year-old Border Collie is very itchy, particularly over Q My her rear end where her fur has gone quite patchy and the skin is

very red. I thought I saw something move, but I don’t think it could have been a flea, as it’s the wrong time of year. I do treat her for fleas in the warmer part of the year, from March to September, but then I give her a six-month break, as there are no fleas about in the colder weather. I do the same with my cat, who has gone very bald underneath, but otherwise looks fine. Do you have any suggestions about what is going on? ALISON LOGAN ADVISES... The signs you describe on your dog and cat sound very much like the result of having fleas. I absolutely take your point that fleas do not like cold weather, but it’s not always cold in our houses, or down rabbit burrows and so on! We switch on heating in winter, and may also set up a moist environment through airing washing in the house, which is ideal for fleas who will thrive whatever the time of year, given half a chance. I am afraid that by stopping flea treatment on your pets, you have given fleas a huge opportunity. Flea control is a yearround necessity when you own dogs and cats. There is nothing worse than a home with a flea problem, and particularly in the run-

up to Christmas and New Year when you may well be having visitors, and perhaps guests staying over. In addition, you could inadvertently take fleas on your clothing from your home to other people’s houses – what a thought!

〉 Border Collie. Posed by a model

Heart murmur six-year-old Cavalier King Charles Spaniel Q My has recently been diagnosed with a heart murmur. Should I be worried about this?

GRAHAM FINCH ADVISES... I’m sorry to hear that. However, this is not always a condition we need to do something about. Heart murmurs are often detected in dogs as they age, and may sometimes, but not always, go on to develop into heart disease. Without wanting to alarm you, this is definitely

GB Burns Original Chicken & Brown Rice Composition : Brown Rice (67%), Chicken Meal (20%), Oats, Peas, Chicken Oil, Sunflower Oil, Seaweed, Vitamins & Minerals.

Burns food is intended to ensure good health in all ages and breeds of adult dogs. This variety is also approved as a DIETETIC FOOD for the nutritional management of:

The reduction of ingredient and nutrient intolerances.

I Burns Original Pollo e Riso Integrale GB Burns Original Chicken & Brown Rice

GB Burns Original Chicken & Brown Rice

I Burns Original Pollo e Riso Integrale

Composition : Riz complet (67%), Farine de poulet (20%), Petits pois, Huile de poulet, Huile de tournesol, Algues, Vitamines et Minéraux.Burns food is intended to ensure good health in all ages and breeds Constituants Analytiques : Protéines Brutes 18,5%, Matières Grasses Brutes 7,5%, Fibres Brutes forSodium the nutritional management of: 2,2%, Cendres Brutes 6%, Cuivre 18mg/kg, 0,13%, Calcium 1,15%, Phosphore 0,70%, Magnésium 0,10%, Acides gras essentiels 2,09%, Potassium 0,32%, Soufre 0,27%, Chlorure 0,20%.

F Burns Original Poulet et Riz complet

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D Burns Original Huhn & Brauner Reis

Inhaltsstoffe : Brauner Reis (67%), Hühnermehl (20%), Hafer, Erbsen, Hühneröl, Sonnenblumenöl, Seetang, Vitamine & Mineralstoffe.

Zusatzstoffe : Vit. A 25,000 IE/kg, Vit. D3 2,000 IE/kg, Vit. E 100 IE/kg, Calciumjodat wasserfrei 1,5 mg/kg, Natriumselenit 0,6 mg/kg, Eisensulfat Monohydrat 160mg/kg, Kupfersulfat Pentahydrat 55mg/kg, Mangansulfat Monohydrat 100mg/kg, Zinksulfat Monohydrat 130mg/kg.

www.dogsmonthly.co.uk

K9Q Vet.indd 81

healthy

life

The support of liver function in case of chronic liver insufficiency.

Suitable for the support of renal function in case of chronic renal insufficiency and reduction of struvite stone recurrence if fed in conjunction with Burns Hypo - Allergenic Mixer.

Nutrition Helpline : 0800 083 66 96

Email : info@burnspet.co.uk

Please contact our nutritionists for more information.

We recommend that a Veterinary Surgeon’s opinion be sought on how to best manage the above conditions.

Nutrition Helpline : 0800 083 66 96

Email : info@burnspet.co.uk

Indicazioni per l’uso. Rations quotidiennes approximatives. Tägliche Futtermenge. Indicaciones para la alimentación.

All Breeds. NATURAL • VITAMINS • GOODNESS • Adult • Senior • VITAMINS • GOODNESS • HYPO-ALLERGENIC We recommend that a Veterinary Surgeon’s opinion be sought on how to best manage the above conditions.

Indicazioni per l’uso. Rations quotidiennes approximatives. Tägliche Futtermenge. Indicaciones para la alimentación.

ORIGINAL

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Anziano. Senior. Älterer Hund. Senior

20 - 40g 40 - 80g 80 - 160g 160 - 240g 240 - 320g 320 - 400g

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Anziano. Senior. Älterer Hund. Senior

ORIGINAL 20 - 40g 40 - 80g 80 - 160g 160 - 240g 240 - 320g 320 - 400g

ORIGINAL• •

•

Email : info@burnspet.co.uk www.burnspet.co.uk burnspet.co.uk/facebook burnspet.co.uk/twitter burnspet.co.uk/youtube

•

Burns Pet Nutrition Ltd, Ferry Rd, Kidwelly, Carmarthenshire, SA17 5EJ

2kg

•

HYPO-ALLERGENIC meals*

7.5kg

SCAN ME

Anziano. Senior. Älterer Hund. Senior

20 - 40g 40 - 80g 80 - 160g 160 - 240g 240 - 320g 320 - 400g

SCAN ME

Get in touch, we’d love to hear from you...

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Nutrition Helpline : 0800 083 66 96

Email : info@burnspet.co.uk

E Burns Original de pollo y arroz integral Ingredientes: Arroz integral (67%), pasta de pollo (20%), guisantes, avena, grasa de pollo, aceite de girasol, algas marinas, vitaminas y minerales.

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Our team of nutrition experts can help you get the best results from polloWhether (20%), guisantes, avena, grasa de on pollo, aceite specific health Ingredientes: Arroz integral (67%), pasta de Burns. you need in-depth advice managing de girasol, algas marinas, vitaminas y minerales. problems or simply fine tuning feeding amounts, Burns has the experience and knowledge to help. Análisis del producto: Proteínas 18,5%, Grasas 7,5%, Fibra 2,2%, Ceniza 6%, Cobre 18mg/kg, Sodio 0,13%, Calcio 1,15%, Fósforo 0,7%, Magnesio 0,1%, Ácidos grasos esenciales 2,09%, Potasio 0,32%, Sulfitos 0,27%, Sales 0,2%.

The regulation of lipid metabolism in case of hyperlipidaemia.

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All Breeds. VITAMINS GOODNESS HYPO-ALLERGENIC All Breeds. NATURAL • VITAMINS • GOODNESS • HYPO-ALLERGENIC Adult • Senior GOODNESS HYPO-ALLERGENIC NATURAL PO-ALLERGENIC • NATURAL • VITAMINS • GOODNESS • • VITAMINS • GOODNESS NATURAL • HYPO-ALLERGENIC Chicken & Brown Rice Adult LERGENIC • NATURAL • VITAMINS • GOODNESS • VITAMINS HYPO-ALLERGENIC GOODNESS • GOODNESS • HYPO-ALLERGENIC • HYPO-ALLERGENIC NATURAL Made using highly digestible premium ingredients NATURAL • VITAMINS • GOODNESS • HYPO-ALLERGENIC GOODNESS • H HYPO-ALLERGENIC YPO-ALLERGENIC NATURAL Naturally helps•maintain healthy skin, coat & digestion HYPO-ALLERGENIC NATURAL VITAMINS Fish & Brown Rice • VITAMINS • GOODNESS • HYPO-ALLERGENIC • NATURAL Contains everything needed for health & wellbeing and nothing else! GOODNESS • HYPO-ALLERGENIC • NATURAL • VITAMINS Lamb & Brown Rice Get inMade we’d lovedigestible to hear premium from you... using highly ingredients HYPO-ALLERGENIC NATURAL VITAMINS VITAMINS • GOODNESS • HYPO-ALLERGENIC •touch, NATURAL Naturally helps maintain healthy skin, coat & digestion Made using highly digestible premium ingredients HYPO-ALLERGENIC • NATURAL • VITAMINS Contains everything needed for health & wellbeing and nothing else! Naturally helps healthy skin, coat & digestion Get inmaintain touch,•we’d love to hear from you... • GOODNESS HYPO-ALLERGENIC • NATURAL • VITAMINS HYPO-ALLERGENIC • NATURAL • VITAMINS • GOODNESS Contains everything needed for health & wellbeing and nothing else! GOODNESS • HYPO-ALLERGENIC • NATURAL • VITAMINS GOODNESS • HYPO-ALLERGENIC GOODNESS HYPO-ALLERGENIC Hypo-Allergenic Healthy Healthy Naturally Recommended by HYPO-ALLERGENIC GOODNESS & Complete Skin & Coat Digestion Delicious Behaviourists HYPO-ALLERGENIC Hypo-Allergenic Healthy Healthy Naturally Recommended by PO-ALLERGENIC • Digestion Healthy Healthy Naturally Hypo-Allergenic Skin & Coat Recommended by & Complete Delicious Behaviourists VITAMINS GOODNESS HYPO-ALLERGENIC Skin & Coat Digestion Delicious & Complete Behaviourists NATURAL • VITAMINS • GOODNESS • HYPO-ALLERGENIC LERGENIC • NATURAL • VITAMINS • GOODNESS • HYPO-ALLERGENIC

Ingredientes: Arroz integral (67%), pasta de pollo (20%), guisantes, avena, grasa de pollo, aceite de girasol, algas marinas, vitaminas y minerales.

Indicazioni per l’uso. Rations quotidiennes approximatives. Tägliche Futtermenge. Indicaciones para la alimentación.

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contact our nutritionists for more information. E Burns Original de polloPlease y arroz integral

E Burns Original de pollo y arroz integral

Additifs Nutritionnels : Vit A 25,000 UI/kg, Vit D3 2,000 UI/kg, Vit E 100 UI/kg, Iodate de Calcium reduction of ingredient and nutrient Anhydre 1,5 mg/kg, Sélénite de Sodium 0,6The mg/kg, Sulfate Ferreux Monohydraté 160mg/kg,intolerances. Sulfate de Cuivre Pentahydraté 55mg/kg, Sulfate Manganeux Monohydraté 100mg/kg, Sulfate de

Zinc Monohydraté 130mg/kg The support of skin function in case of dermatosis and excessive loss of hair. D Burns Original Huhn & Brauner Reis The compensation for maldigestion. Ein Komplettfutter für ausgewachsene und ältere Hunde aller Rassen. The regulation lipid metabolism in case (20%), Hafer, of Erbsen, Hühneröl, Inhaltsstoffe : Brauner Reis (67%), Hühnermehl Sonnenblumenöl, Seetang, Vitamine & Mineralstoffe. of hyperlipidaemia.

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of adult dogs. This variety is also approved as a DIETETIC FOOD

Ein Komplettfutter für ausgewachsene und ältere Hunde aller Rassen.

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Burns food is intended to ensure good health in all ages and breeds of adult dogs. This variety is also approved as a DIETETIC FOOD for the nutritional management of:

Ingredienti : Riso integrale (67%), farina di pollo (20%), avena, piselli, olio di pollo, olio di semi di girasole, alghe marine, vitamine e minerali.

The compensation for maldigestion.

F Burns Original Poulet et Riz complet

I Burns Original Pollo e Riso Integrale

Composition : Brown Rice (67%), Chicken Meal (20%), Oats, Peas, Chicken Oil, Sunflower Oil, Seaweed, Vitamins & Minerals.

The support of skin function in case of dermatosis and excessive loss of hair.

Ingredienti : Riso integrale (67%), farina di pollo (20%), avena, piselli, olio di pollo, olio di semi di girasole, alghe marine, vitamine e minerali.

Composition : Brown Rice (67%), Chicken Meal (20%), Oats, Peas, Chicken Oil, Sunflower Oil, Seaweed, Vitamins & Minerals.

Never give fleas a chance. Treat all your pets all year round. You will probably also need to treat everywhere in your house, as well as other places where you and your pets go, such as the car, caravan, garage and so on, if you are to be sure of having a flea-free festive holiday.

meals*

•

15kg

Searching for natural dog food? Burns Original is an award-winning dry dog food range that uses natural ingredients to offer pets a healthy and happy life. Try all 3 varieties.

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•

something you should check out further, as there has been a recent, very large study that has shown early treatment of heart disease, where structural heart changes are found to be present, is very beneficial, significantly increasing both quality of life and longevity. Such changes are not always found with heart murmurs, but I would strongly recommend you get your companion checked. Tests would involve a chest X-ray, blood tests, and/or ultrasound to see if your dog’s heart is larger than it should be. Your vet will be happy to chat through things with you.

•

Developed by Veterinary Surgeon

BVMS MRCVS

150 meals*

November 2017 | 81

22/09/2017 09:58

Veterinary & Complementary Therapies

Queries Cocker Spaniel. Posed by a model

Dangers of xylitol into the house to find Q Iancame opened packet of chewing gum that I think my dog may have chewed. Is this something I should worry about?

〈 Rug chewer 10-month-old spaniel recently chewed up the corner Q My of a rug and ate some of it. The next day he had diarrhoea with some blood in it. He seems absolutely fine now, but will this have done him any permanent damage?

GRAHAM FINCH ADVISES... It is amazing what puppies will eat, and it is very common to see both vomiting and diarrhoea in puppies and dogs following what we vets call ‘dietary indiscretion’. It is often the case that materials such as carpet, old food, fox poo (you name it, they’ll have eaten it!) irrirate the gut, which then responds to protect itself in the form of vomiting and diarrhoea. If large or solid objects are ingested, they may well cause an obstruction in the gut, but it is unusual (although not impossible) for diarrhoea to occur in such cases. Generally, the effects of eating peculiar things are transient and resolve quickly, so I suspect that if your companion appears to be well now, there will be no further effects (until the next time, of course…). As always, please make an appointment to see your vet if you are at all worried.

GB Burns Original Chicken & Brown Rice Composition : Brown Rice (67%), Chicken Meal (20%), Oats, Peas, Chicken Oil, Sunflower Oil, Seaweed, Vitamins & Minerals.

Burns food is intended to ensure good health in all ages and breeds of adult dogs. This variety is also approved as a DIETETIC FOOD for the nutritional management of:

GB Burns Original Chicken & Brown Rice Composition : Brown Rice (67%), Chicken Meal (20%), Oats, Peas, Chicken Oil, Sunflower Oil, Seaweed, Vitamins & Minerals.

Ingredienti : Riso integrale (67%), farina di pollo (20%), avena, piselli, olio di pollo, olio di semi di girasole, alghe marine, vitamine e minerali.

GB Burns Original

I Burns Original

I Burns Original Pollo e Riso Integrale

Chicken & Brown Rice

Composition : Brown Rice (67%), Chicken Meal (20%), Oats, Peas, Chicken Oil, Sunflower Oil, Seaweed, Vitamins & Minerals.

F Burns Poulet et Riz complet for Original the nutritional management of:

Composition : Riz complet (67%), Farine de poulet (20%), Petits pois, Huile de poulet, Huile de tournesol, Algues, Vitamines et Minéraux. The reduction of ingredient and nutrient intolerances.

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Pollo e Riso Integrale

Ingredienti : Riso integrale (67%), farina di pollo (20%), avena, piselli, olio di pollo, olio di semi di girasole, alghe marine, vitamine e minerali. Tenori analitici : Proteine grezze 18,5%, olii e grassi grezzi 7,5%, fibre grezze 2,2%, ceneri gregge 6%, rame 18mg/kg, sodio 0,13%, calcio 1,15%, fosforo 0,70%, magnesio 0,10%, acidi grassi essenziali 2,09%, potassio 0,32%, zolfo 0,27%, cloruro 0,20%. Additivi Nutrizionali : Vit A 25,000 UI/kg, Vit D3 2,000 UI/kg, Vit E 100 UI/kg, iodato di calcio anidro 1,5 mg/kg, selenito di sodio 0,6 mg/kg, solfato di ferro monoidrato 160mg/kg, solfato rameico pentaidrato 55mg/kg, solfato manganoso monoidrato 100mg/kg, solfato di zinco monoidrato 130mg/kg.

F Burns Original

Poulet et Riz complet

Composition : Riz complet (67%), Farine de poulet (20%), Petits pois, Huile de poulet, Huile de tournesol, Algues, Vitamines et Minéraux. Constituants Analytiques : Protéines Brutes 18,5%, Matières Grasses Brutes 7,5%, Fibres Brutes 2,2%, Cendres Brutes 6%, Cuivre 18mg/kg, Sodium 0,13%, Calcium 1,15%, Phosphore 0,70%, Magnésium 0,10%, Acides gras essentiels 2,09%, Potassium 0,32%, Soufre 0,27%, Chlorure 0,20%. Additifs Nutritionnels : Vit A 25,000 UI/kg, Vit D3 2,000 UI/kg, Vit E 100 UI/kg, Iodate de Calcium Anhydre 1,5 mg/kg, Sélénite de Sodium 0,6 mg/kg, Sulfate Ferreux Monohydraté 160mg/kg, Sulfate de Cuivre Pentahydraté 55mg/kg, Sulfate Manganeux Monohydraté 100mg/kg, Sulfate de Zinc Monohydraté 130mg/kg

D Burns Original

Huhn & Brauner Reis

Ein Komplettfutter für ausgewachsene und ältere Hunde aller Rassen.

F Burns Original Poulet et Riz complet

Additifs Nutritionnels : Vit A 25,000 UI/kg, Vit D3 2,000 UI/kg, Vit E 100 UI/kg, Iodate de Calcium Anhydre 1,5 mg/kg,The Sélénite de Sodium 0,6 mg/kg, Sulfate Ferreux Monohydraté 160mg/kg, compensation for maldigestion. Sulfate de Cuivre Pentahydraté 55mg/kg, Sulfate Manganeux Monohydraté 100mg/kg, Sulfate de Zinc Monohydraté 130mg/kg

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The of liverund function in casealler of chronic Ein Komplettfutter fürsupport ausgewachsene ältere Hunde Rassen. liver insufficiency. Inhaltsstoffe : Brauner Reis (67%), Hühnermehl (20%), Hafer, Erbsen, Hühneröl, Sonnenblumenöl, Seetang, Vitamine & Mineralstoffe.

Hypo Allergenic 25,000 IE/kg, Vit.- D3 2,000 IE/kg, Mixer. Vit. E 100 IE/kg, Calciumjodat wasserfrei 1,5 Zusatzstoffe : Vit. ABurns mg/kg, Natriumselenit 0,6 mg/kg, Eisensulfat Monohydratfor 160mg/kg, Kupfersulfat Pentahydrat Please contact our nutritionists more information. 55mg/kg, Mangansulfat Monohydrat 100mg/kg, Zinksulfat Monohydrat 130mg/kg.

Email : info@burnspet.co.uk

Nutrition Helpline : 0800 083 66 96

We recommend that a Veterinary Surgeon’s opinion be sought on how to best manage the above conditions.

Email : info@burnspet.co.uk

Our team of nutrition experts can help you get the best results from Burns. Whether you need in-depth advice on managing specific health

E Burnsproblems Original de pollo y arrozfeeding integral or simply fine tuning amounts, Burns has the

The regulation of lipid metabolism in case of hyperlipidaemia.

We recommend that a Veterinary Surgeon’s opinion be sought on how to best manage the above conditions.

experience and knowledge to help.

Nutrition Helpline : 0800 083 66 96

Ingredientes: Arroz integral (67%), pasta de pollo (20%), guisantes, avena, grasa de pollo, aceite de girasol, algas marinas, vitaminas y minerales.

Email : info@burnspet.co.uk

E Burns Original de pollo y arroz integral

Ingredientes: Arroz integral (67%), pasta de pollo (20%), guisantes, avena, grasa de pollo, aceite de girasol, algas marinas, vitaminas y minerales.

We recommend that a Veterinary Surgeon’s opinion be sought on how to best

manage above conditions. Vitthe A 25,000 ui/kg, Vit D3 2,000 ui/kg, Vit E 100 ui/kg, Yodato de cálcico Aditivos Nutricionales: anhidro 1,5mg/kg, Selenito de sodio 0,6mg/kg, Sulfato ferroso monohidratado 160mg/kg, Sulfato cúprico pentahidratado 55mg/kg, Sulfato manganoso monohidratado 100mg/kg, Sulfato de zinc monohidratado 130mg/kg.

All Breeds. PO-ALLERGENIC • NATURAL • VITAMINS • GOODNESS • HYPO-ALLERGENIC Senior NATURAL • VITAMINS • GOODNESS • HYPO-ALLERGENIC NATURAL • VITAMINS • GOODNESS • HYPO-ALLERGENIC All Breeds. Adult VITAMINS • GOODNESS • HYPO-ALLERGENIC • VITAMINS • GOODNESS • HYPO-ALLERGENIC PO-ALLERGENIC • NATURAL • VITAMINS • GOODNESS • HYPO-ALLERGENIC Adult • Senior VITAMINS • GOODNESS • HYPO-ALLERGENIC • • GOODNESS • HYPO-ALLERGENIC • NATURAL VITAMINS LERGENIC • NATURAL • VITAMINS • GOODNESS • HYPO-ALLERGENIC Duck & Brown Rice GOODNESS • HYPO-ALLERGENIC • NATURAL • GOODNESS • HYPO-ALLERGENIC • NATURAL NATURAL • VITAMINS • GOODNESS • HYPO-ALLERGENIC • Novel protein for dogs with intolerances to everyday ingredients Pork & Potato Naturally helps healthy skin, coat & digestion GOODNESS • HYPO-ALLERGENIC • NATURAL • VITAMINS GOODNESS • HYPO-ALLERGENIC • NATURAL • maintain VITAMINS VITAMINS • GOODNESS • HYPO-ALLERGENIC • NATURAL Novel protein for dogs with intolerances to everyday ingredients Contains everything needed for health & wellbeing and nothing else! Duck & Brown Rice Get touch, we’d skin, love coat to hear from you... Naturally helps maintain healthy & digestion VITAMINS • Novel GOODNESS • HYPO-ALLERGENIC • NATURAL •inVITAMINS HYPO-ALLERGENIC • NATURAL • VITAMINS HYPO-ALLERGENIC • NATURAL • VITAMINS protein for dogs with intolerances to everyday ingredients Get in touch, we’d love to hear from you... Contains everything needed for health & wellbeing and nothing else! Naturally helps maintain healthy skin, coat & digestion GOODNESS • HYPO-ALLERGENIC • NATURAL • VITAMINS HYPO-ALLERGENIC • NATURAL • VITAMINS • GOODNESS Contains everything needed for health & wellbeing and nothing else! Get in touch, we’d love to hear from you... GOODNESS • HYPO-ALLERGENIC • NATURAL • VITAMINS • GOODNESS GOODNESS HYPO-ALLERGENIC GOODNESS Hypo-Allergenic Healthy Naturally Novel HYPO-ALLERGENIC HYPO-ALLERGENIC HYPO-ALLERGENIC & Complete Digestion Delicious Protein HYPO-ALLERGENIC Healthy HYPO-ALLERGENIC Hypo-Allergenic Healthy Naturally Novel NATURAL • VITAMINS • GOODNESS • HYPO-ALLERGENIC PO-ALLERGENIC Healthy Healthy Naturally Hypo-Allergenic Novel Skin & Coat & Complete Delicious Digestion Protein Skin & Coat Digestion Delicious & Complete Protein • VITAMINS • GOODNESS • HYPO-ALLERGENIC LERGENIC • NATURAL • VITAMINS • GOODNESS • HYPO-ALLERGENIC Análisis del producto: Proteínas 18,5%, Grasas 7,5%, Fibra 2,2%, Ceniza 6%, Cobre 18mg/kg, Sodio 0,13%, Calcio 1,15%, Fósforo 0,7%, Magnesio 0,1%, Ácidos grasos esenciales 2,09%, Potasio 0,32%, Sulfitos 0,27%, Sales 0,2%.

de pollo y arroz integral

Indicazioni per l’uso. Rations quotidiennes approximatives. Tägliche Futtermenge. Indicaciones para la alimentación.

gr/giorno. g/jour. g/Tag. g/día

Anziano. Senior. Älterer Hund. Senior

20 - 40g 40 - 80g 80 - 160g 160 - 240g 240 - 320g 320 - 400g

82 | November 2017

K9Q Vet.indd 82

SENSITIVE + gr/giorno. g/jour. g/Tag. g/día

Indicazioni per l’uso. Rations quotidiennes approximatives. Tägliche Futtermenge. Indicaciones para la alimentación.

SENSITIVE + gr/giorno. g/jour. g/Tag. g/día

Anziano. Senior. Älterer Hund. Senior

20 - 40g 40 - 80g 80 - 160g 160 - 240g 240 - 320g 320 - 400g

Anziano. Senior. Älterer Hund. Senior

20 - 40g 40 - 80g 80 - 160g 160 - 240g 240 - 320g 320 - 400g

SCAN ME

Burns Pet Nutrition Ltd, Ferry Rd, Kidwelly, Carmarthenshire, SA17 5EJ

7.5kg

meals*

7.5kg

HYPO-ALLERGENIC

7.5kg

Burns Sensitive+ contains novel protein which may be beneficial to dogs with food intolerances. Choose from Duck & Rice or Pork & Potato.

FREE PET NUTRITION HELPLINE: 0800 083 66 96

SENSITIVE +

Email : info@burnspet.co.uk www.burnspet.co.uk burnspet.co.uk/facebook burnspet.co.uk/twitter burnspet.co.uk/youtube

Email : info@burnspet.co.uk www.burnspet.co.uk burnspet.co.uk/facebook burnspet.co.uk/twitter burnspet.co.uk/youtube Burns Pet Nutrition Ltd, Ferry Rd, Kidwelly, Carmarthenshire, SA17 5EJ

Indicazioni per l’uso. Rations quotidiennes approximatives. Tägliche Futtermenge. Indicaciones para la alimentación.

SCAN ME

E Burns Original

Ingredientes: Arroz integral (67%), pasta de pollo (20%), guisantes, avena, grasa de pollo, aceite de girasol, algas marinas, vitaminas y minerales.

Does your dog suffer from food intolerances?

Nutrition Helpline : 0800 083 66 96

Suitable for the support of renal function in case of

Analytische Bestandteile : Rohprotein 18,5%, Rohöle und -fette 7,5%, Rohfaser 2,2%, Rohasche chronic and reduction of struvite stone 6%, Kupfer 18mg/kg, Natriumrenal 0,13%, insufficiency Kalzium 1,15%, Phosphor 0,70%, Magnesium 0,10%, essenzielle Fettsäuren 2,09%, Kalium 0,32%, 0,27%, Chlorid recurrence if fed in Schwefel conjunction with 0,20%.

Ein Komplettfutter für ausgewachsene und ältere Hunde aller Rassen.

recurrence if fed in conjunction with Burns Hypo - Allergenic Mixer.

D Burns Original Huhn & Brauner Reis

life

The support of skin function in case of dermatosis and excessive loss of hair.

life The compensation for maldigestion. hy life althy he healt The regulation of lipid metabolism in case lon longg of hyperlipidaemia. for for aa The support of liver function in case of chronic liver ion trit trition insufficiency.nu al nu tur tural Suitable for the support of renal function in case of Na Na chronic renal insufficiency and reduction of struvite stone

Burns food is intended to ensure good health in all ages and breeds of adult dogs. This variety is also approved as a DIETETIC FOOD

The compensation for maldigestion.

The reduction of ingredient and nutrient intolerances. The support of skin function in case of dermatosis and excessive loss of hair.

Ingredienti : Riso integrale (67%), farina di pollo (20%), avena, piselli, olio di pollo, olio di semi di girasole, alghe marine, vitamine e minerali.

The reduction of ingredient and nutrient intolerances.

Burns food is intended to ensure good health in all ages and breeds of adult dogs. This variety is also approved as a DIETETIC FOOD for the nutritional management of:

I Burns Original Pollo e Riso Integrale

PAUL MANKTELOW ADVISES... Most chewing gum contains xylitol, which is a highly poisonous substance for dogs. It is a sweetening agent that can also be found in human toothpaste, chewable vitamins, certain sweets (particularly mints), and some processed cakes. Different products contain different quantities; however, xylitol is more toxic to dogs than chocolate, so even small amounts can be potentially fatal. If you are suspicious that your dog may have eaten anything containing xylitol, you should contact your vet immediately. Symptoms of xylitol poisoning usually develop within 30 minutes of eating, although they can take up to 12 hours. It affects the liver and lowers blood sugar levels dramatically, so signs can include vomiting, feeling wobbly or unable to stand, and collapse. These can develop into tremors, seizures, or eventually a coma state if left untreated. If caught quickly enough, within the first few hours, your vet can use medication to stimulate your dog to vomit; however, they often also need fluids and sugar supplementation as support. If dogs can be treated before any signs develop, they can make a full recovery. However, if signs of liver failure appear, or your dog goes into a coma, the chances become slimmer. The best way to keep your dog safe is by adopting strict preventative measures. Make sure you keep all hazards, especially anything containing xylitol, locked well away from inquisitive noses.

15kg

Developed by Veterinary Surgeon

BVMS MRCVS

150 meals*

meals*

www.dogsmonthly.co.uk

22/09/2017 09:58

Colloidal silver TIM COUZENS ADVISES... a Q Recently, Colloidal silver products are relative friend told me that she has been using colloidal silver to treat minor health problems in her dogs with some success. I am thinking of adding this to my doggie first-aid kit, so I would be interested to know what you think about silver products. Are they safe, how do they work, and what type of products would you recommend?

newcomers to the pet health market, but the use of silver in medicine is nothing new. The earliest uses of silver used in a medicinal context date back to Persian and Greek times, and long before antibiotics existed it was used to fight infections – for example, during the First World War. Colloidal forms of silver have existed since the 1880s. Basically, these are very small particles of silver suspended in water, reducing any toxicity, yet improving its beneficial effects on health. In its colloidal form, silver has antibacterial, antiviral and antifungal properties, and works by disrupting the enzyme system

these organisms need to survive, as well as preventing them from receiving oxygen. You will generally see colloidal silver marketed in two strengths for use in pets: 10ppm (parts per million) and 20ppm as clear solutions for both topical and internal use. It has been incorporated into eye drops (often with MSM/methylsulfonylmethane), ear drops (along with essential oils), shampoo, gels and creams, as well as sprays for topical use on the skin and for use on the gums to help with problems such as gingivitis. The great thing about colloidal silver is its lack of toxicity, even if the dog licks it off. It is safe to use on problems such as hot spots, dermatitis and eczema, ringworm and infected wounds.

“How will my old dog cope with an operation?” am really worried about my 15-year-old Q Icrossbreed spaniel who is quite frail now. He has a large warty-type growth on his back that just keeps bleeding. Our vet has advised that it is removed, but as my dog is so old now, I am wondering about how he will cope with the operation.

Crossbreed. Posed by a model

GRAHAM FINCH ADVISES... I’m sorry to hear this, and I can really appreciate how you feel. The reassuring news is that modern anaesthetics – and sedative drugs – are very safe. You have not mentioned talking to your vet about this, but it may just be possible to remove the mass under sedation, rather than a full anaesthetic. That being said, some risk is associated with any procedure, but age alone is not necessarily a risk factor. There are various approaches to mitigating any risk. In our practice we recommend a blood sample as a wellness check prior to any sedation or anaesthesia in animals older than eight. We also place the patient on IV fluids during the procedure itself to help maintain blood pressure and ensure hydration. I feel sure your vet will be happy to chat this through with you and they will take every care to ensure your companion is operated on as safely as possible. Once these lumps start bleeding, I agree with your vet that the best option is surgical removal, so I wish your chap well and I hope he makes a speedy recovery.

〉

Healthy treats for your canine friend! Help your dog to shed the puppy fat with Weight Control Treats or reward them with easily digestible Kelties. Healthy snacks for every pooch.

www.burnspet.co.uk Developed by Veterinary Surgeon

www.dogsmonthly.co.uk

K9Q Vet.indd 83

BVMS MRCVS

November 2017 | 83

22/09/2017 09:59

Veterinary & Complementary Therapies

Queries

〈

Frightening seizure A seizure occurs due to abnormal have a two-year-old Q ILabrador activity in the brain. Usually your who had a seizure

Labrador, posed by a model

last night, which was very scary to see, and then another in the early hours. She is OK today, but I am terrified it is going to happen again. What should I do?

dog will not be aware of what is going on, or of their surroundings. They often start paddling or twitching, and can fall to one side. They may start drooling or chomping their teeth, and sometimes they urinate or defecate during a seizure, without knowing what they’ve done. The best ways of managing these episodes are by supporting your dog until the seizure has finished. This should be done by ensuring that the head is protected with cushions or blankets so that he cannot hurt himself; dimming the lights and removing any loud noises as far as possible so that the dog is not over stimulated. Try to keep him cool by using a fan or damp towel underneath him, as overheating is very common. Most seizures will last anywhere from one to three minutes, although

PAUL MANKTELOW ADVISES... When you see a seizure, it can be very frightening. The most important thing to remember is not to panic. They are not uncommon; however, if your dog has more than one seizure over a relatively short period of time, there are several different causes that should be considered. These include certain infections, high body temperatures due to weather or diseases, eating toxic substances (such as chocolate), or canine epilepsy. Epilepsy is relatively common in dogs aged between six months and six years old, and can often only be diagnosed by ruling out other causes.

Shed the pounds in 2017!

GB Burns Original Chicken & Brown Rice Composition : Brown Rice (67%), Chicken Meal (20%), Oats, Peas, Chicken Oil, Sunflower Oil, Seaweed, Vitamins & Minerals.

GB Burns Original

Chicken & Brown Rice

Composition : Brown Rice (67%), Chicken Meal (20%), Oats, Peas, Chicken Oil, Sunflower Oil, Seaweed, Vitamins & Minerals.

I Burns Original Pollo e Riso Integrale Ingredienti : Riso integrale (67%), farina di pollo (20%), avena, piselli, olio di pollo, olio di semi di girasole, alghe marine, vitamine e minerali.

I Burns Original

Pollo e Riso Integrale

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F Burns Original Poulet et Riz complet

for trition al nu Natur

Composition : Riz complet (67%), Farine de poulet (20%), Petits pois, Huile de poulet, Huile de tournesol, Algues, Vitamines et Minéraux.

F Burns Original

Poulet et Riz complet

Composition : Riz complet (67%), Farine de poulet (20%), Petits pois, Huile de poulet, Huile de tournesol, Algues, Vitamines et Minéraux.

D Burns Original Huhn & Brauner Reis Ein Komplettfutter für ausgewachsene und ältere Hunde aller Rassen.

D Burns Original

Inhaltsstoffe : Brauner Reis (67%), Hühnermehl (20%), Hafer, Erbsen, Hühneröl, Sonnenblumenöl, Seetang, Vitamine & Mineralstoffe.

Huhn & Brauner Reis

Burns food is intended to ensure good health in all ages and breeds of adult dogs. This variety is also approved as a DIETETIC FOOD for the nutritional management of:

The reduction of ingredient and nutrient intolerances. The support of skin function in case of dermatosis and excessive loss of hair.

The regulation of lipid metabolism in case of hyperlipidaemia.

The compensation for maldigestion.

The support of liver function in case of chronic liver insufficiency.

lthy g hea a lon

Suitable for the support of renal function in case of chronic renal insufficiency and reduction of struvite stone recurrence if fed in conjunction with Burns Hypo - Allergenic Mixer.

for rition l nut Natura

The regulation of lipid metabolism in case of hyperlipidaemia.

life

Please contact our nutritionists for more information.

Email : info@burnspet.co.uk

Nutrition Helpline : 0800 083 66 96

Email : info@burnspet.co.uk

We recommend that a Veterinary Surgeon’s opinion be sought on how to best manage the above conditions.

E Burns Original de pollo y arroz integral E Burns Original

Ingredientes: Arroz integral (67%), pasta de pollo (20%), guisantes, avena, grasa de pollo, aceite de girasol, algas marinas, vitaminas y minerales.

gr/giorno. g/jour. g/Tag. g/día Anziano. Senior. Älterer Hund. Senior

20 - 40g 40 - 80g 80 - 160g 160 - 240g 240 - 320g 320 - 400g

Get in touch, we’d love to hear from you...

Email : info@burnspet.co.uk www.burnspet.co.uk burnspet.co.uk/facebook burnspet.co.uk/twitter burnspet.co.uk/youtube Burns Pet Nutrition Ltd, Ferry Rd, Kidwelly, Carmarthenshire, SA17 5EJ

84 | November 2017

K9Q Vet.indd 84

de pollo y arroz integral

FREE PET NUTRITION HELPLINE: 0800 083 66 96

Ingredientes: Arroz integral (67%), pasta de pollo (20%), guisantes, avena, grasa de pollo, aceite de girasol, algas marinas, vitaminas y minerales.

WEIGHT CONTROL + Indicazioni per l’uso. Rations quotidiennes approximatives. Tägliche Futtermenge. Indicaciones para la alimentación.

gr/giorno. g/jour. g/Tag. g/día

Anziano. Senior. Älterer Hund. Senior

20 - 40g 40 - 80g 80 - 160g 160 - 240g 240 - 320g 320 - 400g

WEIGHT CONTROL+

Email : info@burnspet.co.uk www.burnspet.co.uk burnspet.co.uk/facebook burnspet.co.uk/twitter burnspet.co.uk/youtube Burns Pet Nutrition Ltd, Ferry Rd, Kidwelly, Carmarthenshire, SA17 5EJ

15kg

150

SCAN ME

Indicazioni per l’uso. Rations quotidiennes approximatives. Tägliche Futtermenge. Indicaciones para la alimentación.

SCAN ME

Burns Weight Control+ has been designed to help dogs reach and maintain a healthy weight. High in fibre and naturally delicious, it’s ideal for overweight dogs.

Please contact our nutritionists for more information.

Nutrition Helpline : 0800 083 66 96

Ein Komplettfutter für ausgewachsene und ältere Hunde aller Rassen.

Burns food is intended to ensure good health in all ages and breeds of adult dogs. This variety is also approved as a DIETETIC FOOD for the nutritional management of:

The compensation for maldigestion.

Ingredienti : Riso integrale (67%), farina di pollo (20%), avena, piselli, olio di pollo, olio di semi di girasole, alghe marine, vitamine e minerali.

to those watching anxiously, it often feels a lot longer. It is a good idea to make a note of the time when a seizure starts. If it is over in less than five minutes, sit with the dog and allow him to recover quietly before visiting your vet. It is much better for your dog if he feels more stable and alert before having to go on a journey. If your dog does not come out of the seizure within five minutes, or has repeated seizures very close together, it is more important that you visit your vet straightaway. It’s a good idea to contact them first so that they can prepare for your arrival. If you can, it is also extremely beneficial to your vet to video a seizure, so that the veterinary team can make the most accurate diagnosis. Seizures in dogs can appear very similar to seizures in humans, and can be scary to see. Remember not to panic, and to speak to your vet about any further questions you may have.

7.5kg

meals*

•

Developed by Veterinary Surgeon

BVMS MRCVS

7.5kg

meals*

www.dogsmonthly.co.uk

22/09/2017 09:59

Irish Wolfhound. Posed by a model

Tail trauma have an Irish Wolfhound who cut the end of her tail. It Q Iscabbed over, but when she wags it, she makes it bleed

again. The vet has recommended amputating the tip, but we really don’t want to do that, as we think if the tail end can just heal, it will be OK. Also, we are worried the ‘new’ tip won’t heal either. She is three years old and we had no problems before the first incident.

GB Burns Original Chicken & Brown Rice Composition : Brown Rice (67%), Chicken Meal (20%), Oats, Peas, Chicken Oil, Sunflower Oil, Seaweed, Vitamins & Minerals.

Burns food is intended to ensure good health in all ages and breeds of adult dogs. This variety is also approved as a DIETETIC FOOD for the nutritional management of:

The reduction of ingredient and nutrient intolerances.

I Burns Original Pollo e Riso Integrale GB Burns Original Chicken & Brown Rice

GB Burns Original Chicken & Brown Rice

I Burns Original Pollo e Riso Integrale

F Burns Original Poulet et Riz complet

D Burns Original Huhn & Brauner Reis

for rition l nut Natura

D Burns Original Huhn & Brauner Reis

Inhaltsstoffe : Brauner Reis (67%), Hühnermehl (20%), Hafer, Erbsen, Hühneröl, Sonnenblumenöl, Seetang, Vitamine & Mineralstoffe.

www.dogsmonthly.co.uk

K9Q Vet.indd 85

healthy

life

The support of liver function in case of chronic liver insufficiency.

Suitable for the support of renal function in case of chronic renal insufficiency and reduction of struvite stone recurrence if fed in conjunction with Burns Hypo - Allergenic Mixer.

Nutrition Helpline : 0800 083 66 96

Email : info@burnspet.co.uk

Please contact our nutritionists for more information.

We recommend that a Veterinary Surgeon’s opinion be sought on how to best manage the above conditions.

Nutrition Helpline : 0800 083 66 96

Email : info@burnspet.co.uk

Indicazioni per l’uso. Rations quotidiennes approximatives. Tägliche Futtermenge. Indicaciones para la alimentación.

ORIGINAL

gr/giorno. g/jour. g/Tag. g/día

Anziano. Senior. Älterer Hund. Senior

20 - 40g 40 - 80g 80 - 160g 160 - 240g 240 - 320g 320 - 400g

gr/giorno. g/jour. g/Tag. g/día

Anziano. Senior. Älterer Hund. Senior

ORIGINAL 20 - 40g 40 - 80g 80 - 160g 160 - 240g 240 - 320g 320 - 400g

ORIGINAL• •

•

Email : info@burnspet.co.uk www.burnspet.co.uk burnspet.co.uk/facebook burnspet.co.uk/twitter burnspet.co.uk/youtube

•

Burns Pet Nutrition Ltd, Ferry Rd, Kidwelly, Carmarthenshire, SA17 5EJ

2kg

•

HYPO-ALLERGENIC meals*

7.5kg

SCAN ME

Anziano. Senior. Älterer Hund. Senior

20 - 40g 40 - 80g 80 - 160g 160 - 240g 240 - 320g 320 - 400g

SCAN ME

Get in touch, we’d love to hear from you...

long

Nutrition Helpline : 0800 083 66 96

Email : info@burnspet.co.uk

E Burns Original de pollo y arroz integral Ingredientes: Arroz integral (67%), pasta de pollo (20%), guisantes, avena, grasa de pollo, aceite de girasol, algas marinas, vitaminas y minerales.

SCAN ME

gr/giorno. g/jour. g/Tag. g/día

for a

The regulation of lipid metabolism in case of hyperlipidaemia.

life

Ingredientes: Arroz integral (67%), pasta de pollo (20%), guisantes, avena, grasa de pollo, aceite de girasol, algas marinas, vitaminas y minerales.

Indicazioni per l’uso. Rations quotidiennes approximatives. Tägliche Futtermenge. Indicaciones para la alimentación.

rition

Nat

essenzielle Fettsäuren 2,09%, Kalium 0,32%,insufficiency. Schwefel 0,27%, Chlorid 0,20%.

contact our nutritionists for more information. E Burns Original de polloPlease y arroz integral

E Burns Original de pollo y arroz integral

Burns Pet Nutrition Ltd, Ferry Rd, Kidwelly, Carmarthenshire, SA17 5EJ

a long

of adult dogs. This variety is also approved as a DIETETIC FOOD

Ein Komplettfutter für ausgewachsene und ältere Hunde aller Rassen.

Email : info@burnspet.co.uk www.burnspet.co.uk burnspet.co.uk/facebook burnspet.co.uk/twitter burnspet.co.uk/youtube

healthy

F Burns Original Poulet et Riz complet

Burns food is intended to ensure good health in all ages and breeds of adult dogs. This variety is also approved as a DIETETIC FOOD for the nutritional management of:

Ingredienti : Riso integrale (67%), farina di pollo (20%), avena, piselli, olio di pollo, olio di semi di girasole, alghe marine, vitamine e minerali.

The compensation for maldigestion.

F Burns Original Poulet et Riz complet

I Burns Original Pollo e Riso Integrale

Composition : Brown Rice (67%), Chicken Meal (20%), Oats, Peas, Chicken Oil, Sunflower Oil, Seaweed, Vitamins & Minerals.

The support of skin function in case of dermatosis and excessive loss of hair.

Ingredienti : Riso integrale (67%), farina di pollo (20%), avena, piselli, olio di pollo, olio di semi di girasole, alghe marine, vitamine e minerali.

Composition : Brown Rice (67%), Chicken Meal (20%), Oats, Peas, Chicken Oil, Sunflower Oil, Seaweed, Vitamins & Minerals.

meals*

•

15kg

〉

Searching for natural dog food? Burns Original is an award-winning dry dog food range that uses natural ingredients to offer pets a healthy and happy life. Try all 3 varieties.

www.burnspet.co.uk

•

JAMES FARRELL ADVISES... Without actually seeing the damage for myself, it is hard to give a proper second opinion; however, there are a few general things to consider with this type of injury. Dogs with long, ‘whippy-type’ tails can be prone to this sort of incident, and yes, once damage has occurred, healing can be slow and full of setbacks due to the ease with which the originally injury site can be knocked. Long term, ongoing damage can mean that the original skin becomes too scarred to heal properly or heal well, so sometimes the best option can be to remove the scarred part and start again with fresh, healthy skin that stands a better chance of healing fully. There are a few ways to protect an injury on the tail tip, either the original damage or the operation site after amputation. Some vets use a large, plastic, single syringe case with the base cut off (there are even custom-made tail-tip protectors available now), so that when it is threaded on to the tail and fastened, it provides protection around the wound while leaving it open to the air. For particularly happy dogs, determined to wag, the tail can also be hobbled to a hind leg, preventing excessive swinging. This is not painful, but dogs will usually only tolerate it for a certain length of time, and often ‘wag it loose’, or free it from its mooring by chewing through the dressing material. If you are determined not to lose the tail tip, then this is an option you can try, but if the tissue is already excessively scarred, it may not work very well. Do talk to your vet about your concerns. I am sure they can reassure you that they are only planning to remove the minimum amount of tail to resolve the problem fully. Sometimes, however, a significant portion of tail does need to be removed to get back to healthy skin with a good blood supply, so that the surgical wound heals well. Otherwise, you end up with a similar problem and have to start all over again. If you do reach the point where her tail is fully healed and she hurts it again, then the ‘syringe case/hobbling’ methods might well allow it to heal immediately, rather than having a repeat of the problems you’ve had this time.

•

Developed by Veterinary Surgeon

BVMS MRCVS

150 meals*

November 2017 | 85

22/09/2017 10:00

Behaviour & Training

Queries Galgo. Posed by a model

KIRSTEN DILLON ADVISES...

〈

Marking territory have six dogs – an elderly Lurcher, a 10-year-old Q Iex-racing Greyhound, and four Galgos (three

female and one male). I had the Lurcher and the Greyhound (both male), and two of the Galgas (female Galgos) when I brought in Tobi, an eight-year-old Galgo, in March this year. Being male, he weed up just about everything in the house the first few days. It took lots of hard work getting him to ‘go’ outdoors, but we gave him heaps of praise when he performed outside. I thought we’d cracked it; we still had a wee from him indoors now and again, but he was 99 per cent better. I then brought in Sophie, another Galga, and the weeing began to increase again. We went back to basics and things are slowly improving, but Tobi is still weeing more indoors than he was before Sophie arrived. Tobi has also begun to bring poo into the house. This is something he’s occasionally done since coming here. I’ve managed to stop him from eating it by picking up straightaway, but sometimes one of the other dogs will poo in the garden and if Tobi finds that before I do, he brings it inside like a trophy. Could you please give me some advice and tell me if I’m doing something wrong?

GB Burns Original Chicken & Brown Rice Composition : Brown Rice (67%), Chicken Meal (20%), Oats, Peas, Chicken Oil, Sunflower Oil, Seaweed, Vitamins & Minerals.

Burns food is intended to ensure good health in all ages and breeds of adult dogs. This variety is also approved as a DIETETIC FOOD for the nutritional management of:

GB Burns Original Chicken & Brown Rice Composition : Brown Rice (67%), Chicken Meal (20%), Oats, Peas, Chicken Oil, Sunflower Oil, Seaweed, Vitamins & Minerals.

Ingredienti : Riso integrale (67%), farina di pollo (20%), avena, piselli, olio di pollo, olio di semi di girasole, alghe marine, vitamine e minerali.

GB Burns Original

I Burns Original

I Burns Original Pollo e Riso Integrale

Chicken & Brown Rice

Composition : Brown Rice (67%), Chicken Meal (20%), Oats, Peas, Chicken Oil, Sunflower Oil, Seaweed, Vitamins & Minerals.

F Burns Poulet et Riz complet for Original the nutritional management of:

Composition : Riz complet (67%), Farine de poulet (20%), Petits pois, Huile de poulet, Huile de tournesol, Algues, Vitamines et Minéraux. The reduction of ingredient and nutrient intolerances.

y life health long for a The regulation of lipid metabolism trition in case of hyperlipidaemia. al nu Natur

Pollo e Riso Integrale

F Burns Original

Poulet et Riz complet

D Burns Original

Huhn & Brauner Reis

Ein Komplettfutter für ausgewachsene und ältere Hunde aller Rassen.

F Burns Original Poulet et Riz complet

lthy g hea a lon

for rition l nut Natura

D Burns Original Huhn & Brauner Reis

Please contact our nutritionists for more information.

Email : info@burnspet.co.uk

Nutrition Helpline : 0800 083 66 96

We recommend that a Veterinary Surgeon’s opinion be sought on how to best manage the above conditions.

Email : info@burnspet.co.uk

Our team of nutrition experts can help you get the best results from Burns. Whether you need in-depth advice on managing specific health

E Burnsproblems Original de pollo y arrozfeeding integral or simply fine tuning amounts, Burns has the

The regulation of lipid metabolism in case of hyperlipidaemia.

We recommend that a Veterinary Surgeon’s opinion be sought on how to best manage the above conditions.

experience and knowledge to help.

Nutrition Helpline : 0800 083 66 96

Ingredientes: Arroz integral (67%), pasta de pollo (20%), guisantes, avena, grasa de pollo, aceite de girasol, algas marinas, vitaminas y minerales.

Email : info@burnspet.co.uk

E Burns Original de pollo y arroz integral

Ingredientes: Arroz integral (67%), pasta de pollo (20%), guisantes, avena, grasa de pollo, aceite de girasol, algas marinas, vitaminas y minerales.

We recommend that a Veterinary Surgeon’s opinion be sought on how to best

de pollo y arroz integral

Indicazioni per l’uso. Rations quotidiennes approximatives. Tägliche Futtermenge. Indicaciones para la alimentación.

gr/giorno. g/jour. g/Tag. g/día

Anziano. Senior. Älterer Hund. Senior

20 - 40g 40 - 80g 80 - 160g 160 - 240g 240 - 320g 320 - 400g

86 | November 2017

K9Q Behaviour.indd 86

SENSITIVE + gr/giorno. g/jour. g/Tag. g/día

Indicazioni per l’uso. Rations quotidiennes approximatives. Tägliche Futtermenge. Indicaciones para la alimentación.

SENSITIVE + gr/giorno. g/jour. g/Tag. g/día

Anziano. Senior. Älterer Hund. Senior

20 - 40g 40 - 80g 80 - 160g 160 - 240g 240 - 320g 320 - 400g

Anziano. Senior. Älterer Hund. Senior

20 - 40g 40 - 80g 80 - 160g 160 - 240g 240 - 320g 320 - 400g

SCAN ME

Burns Pet Nutrition Ltd, Ferry Rd, Kidwelly, Carmarthenshire, SA17 5EJ

7.5kg

meals*

7.5kg

HYPO-ALLERGENIC

7.5kg

• • • • • •

Patience and sensitivity is the key to success with sighthounds such as Galgos, but I’m sure you already know that. I wish you all the best.

Does your dog suffer from food intolerances? Burns Sensitive+ contains novel protein which may be beneficial to dogs with food intolerances. Choose from Duck & Rice or Pork & Potato.

FREE PET NUTRITION HELPLINE: 0800 083 66 96

SENSITIVE +

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Email : info@burnspet.co.uk www.burnspet.co.uk burnspet.co.uk/facebook burnspet.co.uk/twitter burnspet.co.uk/youtube Burns Pet Nutrition Ltd, Ferry Rd, Kidwelly, Carmarthenshire, SA17 5EJ

Indicazioni per l’uso. Rations quotidiennes approximatives. Tägliche Futtermenge. Indicaciones para la alimentación.

SCAN ME

E Burns Original

Ingredientes: Arroz integral (67%), pasta de pollo (20%), guisantes, avena, grasa de pollo, aceite de girasol, algas marinas, vitaminas y minerales.

•

Nutrition Helpline : 0800 083 66 96

Suitable for the support of renal function in case of

Ein Komplettfutter für ausgewachsene und ältere Hunde aller Rassen.

recurrence if fed in conjunction with Burns Hypo - Allergenic Mixer.

D Burns Original Huhn & Brauner Reis

life

The support of skin function in case of dermatosis and excessive loss of hair.

Burns food is intended to ensure good health in all ages and breeds of adult dogs. This variety is also approved as a DIETETIC FOOD

The compensation for maldigestion.

The reduction of ingredient and nutrient intolerances. The support of skin function in case of dermatosis and excessive loss of hair.

Ingredienti : Riso integrale (67%), farina di pollo (20%), avena, piselli, olio di pollo, olio di semi di girasole, alghe marine, vitamine e minerali.

The reduction of ingredient and nutrient intolerances.

Burns food is intended to ensure good health in all ages and breeds of adult dogs. This variety is also approved as a DIETETIC FOOD for the nutritional management of:

I Burns Original Pollo e Riso Integrale

I don’t think you are doing anything wrong. In fact, I applaud your patience and kindness in taking on these rescue dogs! From your description, I feel safe in making a few assumptions and saying that Tobi’s unwanted elimination and poo-centred behaviours are him marking resources. If he has been semi-feral, or roamed the streets at all, this behaviour could be his way of claiming either ‘territory’, ‘possessions’ and/ or sorting out hierarchy within the home in a way that makes sense to him. Urine and faeces contain pheromones – chemical messages that convey information (age, gender, health and reproductive status) about the dog doing the marking, plus in Tobi’s case, ownership. There may also be a slight anxiety component, as the dynamic changed with Sophie’s arrival. However, it is a common behaviour, and especially prevalent in multi-dog homes where competition for space, food and human interaction is fiercer. If Tobi hasn’t had a recent vet check – and isn’t castrated – then you will need to do both as soon as you can. At eight years old, there is a slight chance of age-related issues and an unneutered male will mark more. You have already made great progress, so continue what you have been doing, plus taking the following steps that may further improve the situation: Remove high-value resources that encourage competitive marking, and do not allow the dog or dogs who scent-mark to roam freely throughout the home Prevent access to favourite marking spots by restricting Tobi to a dog-proofed room or crate when you are unable to actively supervise him Avoid competitive or vigorous play indoors, as excess activity may encourage urination If you catch him about to mark, interrupt the behaviour with a clap and immediately direct him to something more positive, or take him outside You can also help him to succeed by walking him in new and different areas; this will encourage him to mark outside, rather than in the home Sticking to your toilet-training schedule as rigidly as possible will certainly help speed the process along Use a specially made product for cleaning up – one that breaks down biological fluids, or a 10:1 solution of biological washing powder and water in a spray bottle. This helps with remarking in the same spot.

15kg

Developed by Veterinary Surgeon

BVMS MRCVS

150 meals*

meals*

www.dogsmonthly.co.uk

22/09/2017 09:52

“Why is my puppy so nervous about meeting people?” the breeder. It has been shown that people to give him a treat and pet have a lovely 13-week-old Q ICockapoo puppies who are brought up in a him, but keep these encounters short puppy, but he is showing signs of nervousness in public. He trembles and backs away from people as they approach. What can you advise?

NICK JONES ADVISES... You don’t say how old your puppy was when you got him, but I’m asking the question because this tends to be one of the key elements in creating a confident, well-balanced puppy. The ideal age to acquire a puppy is eight weeks, so that you can gradually expose him to all of the things he is likely to experience in his normal daily life with you. This process is known as socialisation and habituation, and the sooner you are able to begin this, the better, as puppies are in a much more receptive state at this young age. Another element is how he is reared in those first eight weeks with

home, with all the comings and goings of family life, and being exposed to various domestic sounds, are more confident and relaxed than puppies reared, for example, in secluded sheds at the bottom of a garden. Seeing the puppies with their mother is also important, so that you can assess whether she is a sociable, wellbalanced dog herself. Don’t worry, however. All is by no means lost, but you need to make your puppy’s socialisation the strongest of priorities now. I would encourage you to continue taking your dog to those locations you feel he can cope with, and make a point of exposing him to these places in a positive way, with plenty of highvalue food to reward calm behaviour and an eye on increasing the intensity as he begins to settle down. Allow

and positive, and don’t let the event become too intense for him. If you haven’t already, I would also enrol in a good puppy class with a trainer who uses only kind, force-free, reward-based methods, and teaches in a small group of no more than six puppies. Explain the problems you’re having, and I’m sure the trainer will be more than happy to offer further advice. Thirteen weeks is still very young, and you will have many ongoing opportunities to introduce your puppy to the world. While socialisation is a relatively straightforward process, you could try researching the subject online for ideas on places to go and how to proceed. It can also be helpful to keep a diary and a ‘ticklist’ of the things he’s encountered, so that you can monitor your progress.

〉

Cockapoo. Posed by a model

Healthy treats for your canine friend! Help your dog to shed the puppy fat with Weight Control Treats or reward them with easily digestible Kelties. Healthy snacks for every pooch.

www.burnspet.co.uk Developed by Veterinary Surgeon

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K9Q Behaviour.indd 87

BVMS MRCVS

November 2017 | 87

22/09/2017 09:53

Behaviour & Training

Queries

Barking dogs, screaming kids… have two young children and Q Itwo terriers. They are all full of

energy and seem to wind each other up. When the children scream, the dogs respond by rushing about and barking, and the din can be unbearable. Sometimes I’m desperate for just a few minutes’ peace! I suffer from stress and bought the dogs to give my children an interest. SUE GILMORE ADVISES... Suffering from stress is tough enough without having hyperactive children and dogs in the home, so here is something you can try: Reading to children has a calming effect. They become engaged in the story and concentrate on the narrative. There are now quite a number of ‘read to dogs’ projects operating in UK schools, and several animal rescue centres in the US have recruited children to read to the dogs in their care to calm them and help them to relax. Kennels are generally noisy places where the dogs bark for attention throughout the day, often because they are simply bored. Our primary means of communication is verbal; our voice conveys thoughts, feelings and a whole host of information depending on what we say and how we say it. Not only that, we put a good deal of energy into how we communicate, which our dogs pick up. Try saying something sad, then say the same sentence with excitement, and then as a question. Observe the reaction your dog gives you. They try so hard to understand us. Suggest that when you read to your children, they each sit and stroke a dog, so that you all interact and enjoy the story together. Then encourage your children to read to the dogs themselves. Dogs are so in tune with the tones of our voices, and sensitive to what we say and how we say it, even if they don’t have a perfect understanding of what each word means. It has to be worth a try, and storytelling will hopefully help your children build a strong bond with their dogs. Then, perhaps, everyone can live happily ever after!

Jack Russell Terrier. Posed by models

〈

Shed the pounds in 2017!

GB Burns Original Chicken & Brown Rice Composition : Brown Rice (67%), Chicken Meal (20%), Oats, Peas, Chicken Oil, Sunflower Oil, Seaweed, Vitamins & Minerals.

GB Burns Original

Chicken & Brown Rice

Composition : Brown Rice (67%), Chicken Meal (20%), Oats, Peas, Chicken Oil, Sunflower Oil, Seaweed, Vitamins & Minerals.

I Burns Original Pollo e Riso Integrale Ingredienti : Riso integrale (67%), farina di pollo (20%), avena, piselli, olio di pollo, olio di semi di girasole, alghe marine, vitamine e minerali.

I Burns Original

Pollo e Riso Integrale

life lthy g hea a lon

F Burns Original Poulet et Riz complet

for trition al nu Natur

Composition : Riz complet (67%), Farine de poulet (20%), Petits pois, Huile de poulet, Huile de tournesol, Algues, Vitamines et Minéraux.

F Burns Original

Poulet et Riz complet

Composition : Riz complet (67%), Farine de poulet (20%), Petits pois, Huile de poulet, Huile de tournesol, Algues, Vitamines et Minéraux.

D Burns Original Huhn & Brauner Reis Ein Komplettfutter für ausgewachsene und ältere Hunde aller Rassen.

D Burns Original

Inhaltsstoffe : Brauner Reis (67%), Hühnermehl (20%), Hafer, Erbsen, Hühneröl, Sonnenblumenöl, Seetang, Vitamine & Mineralstoffe.

Huhn & Brauner Reis

Burns food is intended to ensure good health in all ages and breeds of adult dogs. This variety is also approved as a DIETETIC FOOD for the nutritional management of:

The reduction of ingredient and nutrient intolerances. The support of skin function in case of dermatosis and excessive loss of hair.

The regulation of lipid metabolism in case of hyperlipidaemia.

The compensation for maldigestion.

The support of liver function in case of chronic liver insufficiency.

lthy g hea a lon

Suitable for the support of renal function in case of chronic renal insufficiency and reduction of struvite stone recurrence if fed in conjunction with Burns Hypo - Allergenic Mixer.

for rition l nut Natura

The regulation of lipid metabolism in case of hyperlipidaemia.

life

Please contact our nutritionists for more information.

Email : info@burnspet.co.uk

Nutrition Helpline : 0800 083 66 96

Email : info@burnspet.co.uk

We recommend that a Veterinary Surgeon’s opinion be sought on how to best manage the above conditions.

E Burns Original de pollo y arroz integral E Burns Original

Ingredientes: Arroz integral (67%), pasta de pollo (20%), guisantes, avena, grasa de pollo, aceite de girasol, algas marinas, vitaminas y minerales.

gr/giorno. g/jour. g/Tag. g/día Anziano. Senior. Älterer Hund. Senior

20 - 40g 40 - 80g 80 - 160g 160 - 240g 240 - 320g 320 - 400g

Get in touch, we’d love to hear from you...

Email : info@burnspet.co.uk www.burnspet.co.uk burnspet.co.uk/facebook burnspet.co.uk/twitter burnspet.co.uk/youtube Burns Pet Nutrition Ltd, Ferry Rd, Kidwelly, Carmarthenshire, SA17 5EJ

88 | November 2017

K9Q Behaviour.indd 88

de pollo y arroz integral

FREE PET NUTRITION HELPLINE: 0800 083 66 96

Ingredientes: Arroz integral (67%), pasta de pollo (20%), guisantes, avena, grasa de pollo, aceite de girasol, algas marinas, vitaminas y minerales.

WEIGHT CONTROL + Indicazioni per l’uso. Rations quotidiennes approximatives. Tägliche Futtermenge. Indicaciones para la alimentación.

gr/giorno. g/jour. g/Tag. g/día

Anziano. Senior. Älterer Hund. Senior

20 - 40g 40 - 80g 80 - 160g 160 - 240g 240 - 320g 320 - 400g

WEIGHT CONTROL+

Email : info@burnspet.co.uk www.burnspet.co.uk burnspet.co.uk/facebook burnspet.co.uk/twitter burnspet.co.uk/youtube Burns Pet Nutrition Ltd, Ferry Rd, Kidwelly, Carmarthenshire, SA17 5EJ

15kg

150

SCAN ME

Indicazioni per l’uso. Rations quotidiennes approximatives. Tägliche Futtermenge. Indicaciones para la alimentación.

SCAN ME

Burns Weight Control+ has been designed to help dogs reach and maintain a healthy weight. High in fibre and naturally delicious, it’s ideal for overweight dogs.

Please contact our nutritionists for more information.

Nutrition Helpline : 0800 083 66 96

Ein Komplettfutter für ausgewachsene und ältere Hunde aller Rassen.

Burns food is intended to ensure good health in all ages and breeds of adult dogs. This variety is also approved as a DIETETIC FOOD for the nutritional management of:

The compensation for maldigestion.

Ingredienti : Riso integrale (67%), farina di pollo (20%), avena, piselli, olio di pollo, olio di semi di girasole, alghe marine, vitamine e minerali.

7.5kg

meals*

•

Developed by Veterinary Surgeon

BVMS MRCVS

7.5kg

meals*

www.dogsmonthly.co.uk

22/09/2017 09:55

Faecal attraction four-year-old Labrador is to compensate for this through eating Q My faeces – known as coprophagia. always trying to eat dog poo on walks in the park. He never eats his own, but is always on the lookout for other dogs’ poo, whether he’s on or off the lead. This habit has made him sick a few times, and I find the whole thing disgusting. Please help!

When in open spaces, you will need to be able to watch your Labrador like a hawk, and so a long training line (30-50ft) will help ensure that you can guide his physical location and behaviour during each outing. You may also find a muzzle useful (the Baskerville type allows a dog to pant and drink as normal), but if your dog is not used to wearing a muzzle, you will need to gradually introduce this at home over a period of about a week or two. Make sure your dog pays attention to you throughout every walk, but don’t indulge in his game of ‘find the poo’ by being overly focused on this to the exclusion of everything else. Try to develop his recall away from all sorts of distractions, not just poo, by randomly recalling him throughout

〉

Labrador. Posed by a model

NICK JONES ADVISES... First, you need to make sure your dog is being fed a high-quality diet – the best you can afford – and one that is free from artificial additives, colourings, flavourings and preservatives. Try to avoid cheap fillers, such as wheat and corn, and avoid the cheaper supermarket brands, as they tend to be cheap for a reason. Addressing his diet can cover the element that he may be lacking certain nutrients and is being driven

the walk, and rewarding him when he comes back. When he does approach a pile of something he seems overly interested in, call your dog back to you, using the recall command, and if he doesn’t respond immediately, use the long line to reinforce this – effectively reeling him in – and reward him once he reaches your feet. You can also issue a clear and firm ‘Leave it’ command if he gets too close to the poo for your liking. Now, I have seen some dogs – even when wearing a muzzle – attempt to eat poo as if it’s going out of fashion, so if this problem persists, you might need to seek professional advice from an experienced behaviour consultant. A vet check-up would be a good idea too, as you have already mentioned he has been sick several times, and the habit can have a negative effect on a dog’s health.

GB Burns Original Chicken & Brown Rice Composition : Brown Rice (67%), Chicken Meal (20%), Oats, Peas, Chicken Oil, Sunflower Oil, Seaweed, Vitamins & Minerals.

Burns food is intended to ensure good health in all ages and breeds of adult dogs. This variety is also approved as a DIETETIC FOOD for the nutritional management of:

The reduction of ingredient and nutrient intolerances.

I Burns Original Pollo e Riso Integrale GB Burns Original Chicken & Brown Rice

GB Burns Original Chicken & Brown Rice

I Burns Original Pollo e Riso Integrale

F Burns Original Poulet et Riz complet

D Burns Original Huhn & Brauner Reis

for rition l nut Natura

D Burns Original Huhn & Brauner Reis

Inhaltsstoffe : Brauner Reis (67%), Hühnermehl (20%), Hafer, Erbsen, Hühneröl, Sonnenblumenöl, Seetang, Vitamine & Mineralstoffe.

www.dogsmonthly.co.uk

K9Q Behaviour.indd 89

healthy

life

The support of liver function in case of chronic liver insufficiency.

Suitable for the support of renal function in case of chronic renal insufficiency and reduction of struvite stone recurrence if fed in conjunction with Burns Hypo - Allergenic Mixer.

Nutrition Helpline : 0800 083 66 96

Email : info@burnspet.co.uk

Please contact our nutritionists for more information.

We recommend that a Veterinary Surgeon’s opinion be sought on how to best manage the above conditions.

Nutrition Helpline : 0800 083 66 96

Email : info@burnspet.co.uk

Indicazioni per l’uso. Rations quotidiennes approximatives. Tägliche Futtermenge. Indicaciones para la alimentación.

ORIGINAL

gr/giorno. g/jour. g/Tag. g/día

Anziano. Senior. Älterer Hund. Senior

20 - 40g 40 - 80g 80 - 160g 160 - 240g 240 - 320g 320 - 400g

gr/giorno. g/jour. g/Tag. g/día

Anziano. Senior. Älterer Hund. Senior

ORIGINAL 20 - 40g 40 - 80g 80 - 160g 160 - 240g 240 - 320g 320 - 400g

ORIGINAL• •

•

Email : info@burnspet.co.uk www.burnspet.co.uk burnspet.co.uk/facebook burnspet.co.uk/twitter burnspet.co.uk/youtube

•

Burns Pet Nutrition Ltd, Ferry Rd, Kidwelly, Carmarthenshire, SA17 5EJ

2kg

•

HYPO-ALLERGENIC meals*

7.5kg

SCAN ME

Anziano. Senior. Älterer Hund. Senior

20 - 40g 40 - 80g 80 - 160g 160 - 240g 240 - 320g 320 - 400g

SCAN ME

Get in touch, we’d love to hear from you...

long

Nutrition Helpline : 0800 083 66 96

Email : info@burnspet.co.uk

E Burns Original de pollo y arroz integral Ingredientes: Arroz integral (67%), pasta de pollo (20%), guisantes, avena, grasa de pollo, aceite de girasol, algas marinas, vitaminas y minerales.

SCAN ME

gr/giorno. g/jour. g/Tag. g/día

for a

The regulation of lipid metabolism in case of hyperlipidaemia.

life

Ingredientes: Arroz integral (67%), pasta de pollo (20%), guisantes, avena, grasa de pollo, aceite de girasol, algas marinas, vitaminas y minerales.

Indicazioni per l’uso. Rations quotidiennes approximatives. Tägliche Futtermenge. Indicaciones para la alimentación.

rition

Nat

essenzielle Fettsäuren 2,09%, Kalium 0,32%,insufficiency. Schwefel 0,27%, Chlorid 0,20%.

contact our nutritionists for more information. E Burns Original de polloPlease y arroz integral

E Burns Original de pollo y arroz integral

Burns Pet Nutrition Ltd, Ferry Rd, Kidwelly, Carmarthenshire, SA17 5EJ

a long

of adult dogs. This variety is also approved as a DIETETIC FOOD

Ein Komplettfutter für ausgewachsene und ältere Hunde aller Rassen.

Email : info@burnspet.co.uk www.burnspet.co.uk burnspet.co.uk/facebook burnspet.co.uk/twitter burnspet.co.uk/youtube

healthy

F Burns Original Poulet et Riz complet

Burns food is intended to ensure good health in all ages and breeds of adult dogs. This variety is also approved as a DIETETIC FOOD for the nutritional management of:

Ingredienti : Riso integrale (67%), farina di pollo (20%), avena, piselli, olio di pollo, olio di semi di girasole, alghe marine, vitamine e minerali.

The compensation for maldigestion.

F Burns Original Poulet et Riz complet

I Burns Original Pollo e Riso Integrale

Composition : Brown Rice (67%), Chicken Meal (20%), Oats, Peas, Chicken Oil, Sunflower Oil, Seaweed, Vitamins & Minerals.

The support of skin function in case of dermatosis and excessive loss of hair.

Ingredienti : Riso integrale (67%), farina di pollo (20%), avena, piselli, olio di pollo, olio di semi di girasole, alghe marine, vitamine e minerali.

Composition : Brown Rice (67%), Chicken Meal (20%), Oats, Peas, Chicken Oil, Sunflower Oil, Seaweed, Vitamins & Minerals.

meals*

•

15kg

www.burnspet.co.uk

•

Searching for natural dog food? Burns Original is an award-winning dry dog food range that uses natural ingredients to offer pets a healthy and happy life. Try all 3 varieties.

•

Developed by Veterinary Surgeon

BVMS MRCVS

150 meals*

November 2017 | 89

22/09/2017 09:56

Behaviour & Training

Cocker Spaniel. Posed by a model

Queries

should be included on a young dog’s socialisation list, and most practices will welcome brief drop-in visits from puppies and their owners, which finish positively with a fuss or a treat from the receptionist. However, it is never too late to improve an older dog’s association towards trips to the vet, and these are just some of the things you might like to consider doing to improve his levels of stress: Go along to be weighed (the dog that is!), receive a special treat and leave. Treats should be very high-value, such as liver cake, and a tub can be kept aside just for your dog. Your dog should be given a warm reception by staff, but not too excessive, so as to avoid peaks of emotion. Ask if you can drop off a stuffed Kong at your vet’s (or perhaps they can keep one frozen in a bag for you), and then pop by to allow him to work on it, either in the waiting room, if this is sensible, or in an empty consulting room. Leave when you feel the session has served its purpose. Ask a member of your family to go to the practice first, so that as you bring

• •

〈

Stress at the surgery three-year-old spaniel is NICK JONES ADVISES... Q My Due to the nature of a dog’s showing stress when we take him to the vet, and the practice has asked me to use a muzzle on him next time we go because he tried to snap at the vet nurse. Otherwise he is a good boy, free from behaviour problems. What can we do to make the experience easier for him?

experiences at the veterinary surgery, and the procedures that may need to be carried out, some dogs can come away with anxiety and fear-based emotions that stay with them until the next visit. Ideally, the vet practice is a place that

Communication problems When you talk to your dog, I am sure been the proud owner Q Iofhave you use sentences, which have so many a three-year-old rescue dog for nearly a year. The problem I have is that she looks at me as if I am mad at times and does not understand what I am telling her. I get quite frustrated and wonder where I am going wrong. Please can you give me a bit of guidance as to what I can do?

other words that can mask the trigger word your dog is waiting for. Most people train their dogs to ‘sit’, ‘come’, ‘stay’, and so on, but we often confuse them by adding words that mean nothing to any dog. This is especially the case if the dog doesn’t do what he’s told first time – then we tend to repeat the instruction, but add in even more unnecessary words! Or, if we’ve had a trying day and we’re stressed, we just expect our dogs to automatically know what to do and how to behave. Having had your rescue dog for a relatively short period, she has many

SUE GILMORE ADVISES... This is a question I am often asked at training classes, so don’t think your dog is doing it on purpose! The best advice I can give you is to ‘keep it simple’.

GB Burns Original Chicken & Brown Rice Composition : Brown Rice (67%), Chicken Meal (20%), Oats, Peas, Chicken Oil, Sunflower Oil, Seaweed, Vitamins & Minerals.

Burns food is intended to ensure good health in all ages and breeds of adult dogs. This variety is also approved as a DIETETIC FOOD for the nutritional management of:

GB Burns Original Chicken & Brown Rice Composition : Brown Rice (67%), Chicken Meal (20%), Oats, Peas, Chicken Oil, Sunflower Oil, Seaweed, Vitamins & Minerals.

Ingredienti : Riso integrale (67%), farina di pollo (20%), avena, piselli, olio di pollo, olio di semi di girasole, alghe marine, vitamine e minerali.

GB Burns Original

I Burns Original

I Burns Original Pollo e Riso Integrale

Chicken & Brown Rice

Composition : Brown Rice (67%), Chicken Meal (20%), Oats, Peas, Chicken Oil, Sunflower Oil, Seaweed, Vitamins & Minerals.

F Burns Poulet et Riz complet for Original the nutritional management of:

Composition : Riz complet (67%), Farine de poulet (20%), Petits pois, Huile de poulet, Huile de tournesol, Algues, Vitamines et Minéraux. The reduction of ingredient and nutrient intolerances.

y life health long for a The regulation of lipid metabolism trition in case of hyperlipidaemia. al nu Natur

Pollo e Riso Integrale

F Burns Original

Poulet et Riz complet

D Burns Original

Huhn & Brauner Reis

Ein Komplettfutter für ausgewachsene und ältere Hunde aller Rassen.

F Burns Original Poulet et Riz complet

lthy g hea a lon

for rition l nut Natura

D Burns Original Huhn & Brauner Reis

Please contact our nutritionists for more information.

Email : info@burnspet.co.uk

Nutrition Helpline : 0800 083 66 96

We recommend that a Veterinary Surgeon’s opinion be sought on how to best manage the above conditions.

Email : info@burnspet.co.uk

Our team of nutrition experts can help you get the best results from Burns. Whether you need in-depth advice on managing specific health

E Burnsproblems Original de pollo y arrozfeeding integral or simply fine tuning amounts, Burns has the

The regulation of lipid metabolism in case of hyperlipidaemia.

We recommend that a Veterinary Surgeon’s opinion be sought on how to best manage the above conditions.

experience and knowledge to help.

Nutrition Helpline : 0800 083 66 96

Ingredientes: Arroz integral (67%), pasta de pollo (20%), guisantes, avena, grasa de pollo, aceite de girasol, algas marinas, vitaminas y minerales.

Email : info@burnspet.co.uk

E Burns Original de pollo y arroz integral

Ingredientes: Arroz integral (67%), pasta de pollo (20%), guisantes, avena, grasa de pollo, aceite de girasol, algas marinas, vitaminas y minerales.

We recommend that a Veterinary Surgeon’s opinion be sought on how to best

de pollo y arroz integral

Indicazioni per l’uso. Rations quotidiennes approximatives. Tägliche Futtermenge. Indicaciones para la alimentación.

gr/giorno. g/jour. g/Tag. g/día

Anziano. Senior. Älterer Hund. Senior

20 - 40g 40 - 80g 80 - 160g 160 - 240g 240 - 320g 320 - 400g

90 | November 2017

K9Q Behaviour.indd 90

SENSITIVE + gr/giorno. g/jour. g/Tag. g/día

Indicazioni per l’uso. Rations quotidiennes approximatives. Tägliche Futtermenge. Indicaciones para la alimentación.

SENSITIVE + gr/giorno. g/jour. g/Tag. g/día

Anziano. Senior. Älterer Hund. Senior

20 - 40g 40 - 80g 80 - 160g 160 - 240g 240 - 320g 320 - 400g

Anziano. Senior. Älterer Hund. Senior

20 - 40g 40 - 80g 80 - 160g 160 - 240g 240 - 320g 320 - 400g

SCAN ME

Burns Pet Nutrition Ltd, Ferry Rd, Kidwelly, Carmarthenshire, SA17 5EJ

7.5kg

meals*

7.5kg

HYPO-ALLERGENIC

7.5kg

years ahead of her in which she will learn your specific mannerisms, gestures, body language, and many other signals that give her the cue to act. Say, for instance, you pick up your car keys, phone and then put on your dog walking shoes; I am quite sure she will be ready and waiting to have her lead clipped on just as soon as you’re set to go. One thing is for sure: your dog is very unlikely to appear awkward when there is something in whatever you’re saying or about to do that is to her benefit. Take a few moments to listen to how you speak to your dog. Is your voice

Does your dog suffer from food intolerances? Burns Sensitive+ contains novel protein which may be beneficial to dogs with food intolerances. Choose from Duck & Rice or Pork & Potato.

FREE PET NUTRITION HELPLINE: 0800 083 66 96

SENSITIVE +

Email : info@burnspet.co.uk www.burnspet.co.uk burnspet.co.uk/facebook burnspet.co.uk/twitter burnspet.co.uk/youtube

Email : info@burnspet.co.uk www.burnspet.co.uk burnspet.co.uk/facebook burnspet.co.uk/twitter burnspet.co.uk/youtube Burns Pet Nutrition Ltd, Ferry Rd, Kidwelly, Carmarthenshire, SA17 5EJ

Indicazioni per l’uso. Rations quotidiennes approximatives. Tägliche Futtermenge. Indicaciones para la alimentación.

SCAN ME

E Burns Original

Ingredientes: Arroz integral (67%), pasta de pollo (20%), guisantes, avena, grasa de pollo, aceite de girasol, algas marinas, vitaminas y minerales.

•

Nutrition Helpline : 0800 083 66 96

Suitable for the support of renal function in case of

Ein Komplettfutter für ausgewachsene und ältere Hunde aller Rassen.

recurrence if fed in conjunction with Burns Hypo - Allergenic Mixer.

D Burns Original Huhn & Brauner Reis

life

The support of skin function in case of dermatosis and excessive loss of hair.

Burns food is intended to ensure good health in all ages and breeds of adult dogs. This variety is also approved as a DIETETIC FOOD

The compensation for maldigestion.

The reduction of ingredient and nutrient intolerances. The support of skin function in case of dermatosis and excessive loss of hair.

Ingredienti : Riso integrale (67%), farina di pollo (20%), avena, piselli, olio di pollo, olio di semi di girasole, alghe marine, vitamine e minerali.

The reduction of ingredient and nutrient intolerances.

Burns food is intended to ensure good health in all ages and breeds of adult dogs. This variety is also approved as a DIETETIC FOOD for the nutritional management of:

I Burns Original Pollo e Riso Integrale

•

15kg

Developed by Veterinary Surgeon

BVMS MRCVS

150 meals*

meals*

www.dogsmonthly.co.uk

22/09/2017 09:56

your dog into the consulting room, he unexpectedly sees someone he knows, who will give him a warm but calm greeting and high-value food. Try to carry out some of these suggestions twice a week or more if possible. This way you will build a lot of positive feeling around the vet experience. Sometimes, a mobile vet service might be an option, as you will be breaking the association with an environment in which he becomes stressed, and this could make all the difference. For regular and small procedures, this could be a valid way forwards but, of course, it’s not entirely solving the problem, as there will invariably be times he needs to visit the practice for more involved treatment, or in an emergency. Remember that a dog should never be pinned down or restricted in order for a vet or nurse to carry out a basic procedure, such as ear cleaning or body inspections. If this is proving necessary, I would advise you to contact an experienced canine behaviourist, who can advise on a proper desensitisation programme for your dog.

Rottweiler-Labrador-bull breed mix – and although he is good-natured and lovely in the home, he is very powerful. At first we used a normal collar and lead, but he got away from us several times (once he pulled me over, breaking my wrist), so we switched to a body harness. My husband finds this easier, but I am still having problems, and it’s almost as if he knows that I can’t hold him when he decides to set off. Usually this is because he’s seen another dog he wants to go to, or something he wants to chase. He just forgets what he’s doing and pulls like a train. Please help, as I’m getting more and more nervous about walking him in case I injure myself again, or he gets loose and hurts himself.

KIRSTEN DILLON ADVISES... Having owned a huge bull type myself, I fully understand your problem. Let’s first discuss training, as this is the key to the issue. Please employ a good, force-free trainer to help you with one or two private lessons specific to both you and your dog’s individual needs. The stress here being on ‘force free’. You will never be able to hold your dog by strength alone, and any equipment that controls him will only do so because it is punitive (unpleasant or painful). Please don’t use choke chains, prong collars or electric collars, and only visit a head collar as a very last resort. He needs to learn manners around dogs he wants to greet, and a good recall command so that you can safely let him off the lead. I always advise the use of a strong front and back attachment harness, coupled with a double-ended training lead. The lead attaches at the back of the harness, and also at the front where the dog’s chest is. This means that if he pulls or lunges, you can have the lead in two hands (a bit like reins) and bring him to the side, using his own forward momentum to turn him to the side. I strongly recommend the Perfect Fit Harness from www.dog-games.co.uk, as it is incredibly comfortable and safe for big dogs. Some people may tell you that harnesses increase pulling. Yes, they may facilitate the pulling motion (think sled dogs). However, their purpose is to protect the dog’s neck and spine, while allowing you to have control – not to hurt. As I said, it is training, not equipment, that stops pulling.

〉

Crossbreed. Posed by a model

bright and positive, or flatter and more monotone, which she may find less easy to understand? When you speak to her, raise the tone of your voice (not the volume!) so that you sound exciting and fun. Many people find it difficult to motivate their dog, but if you put a little more energy into every occasion that you communicate with her, she will respond and do everything she can to please you. It goes without saying that every time she does please you, she should be praised, stroked and made to feel good. In other words, there has to be something in it for her, and you are the person to give that something.

Pulling power can you give me some advice on how to safely walk Q Please our very strong dog? He is a rescue dog – thought to be a

Healthy treats for your canine friend! Help your dog to shed the puppy fat with Weight Control Treats or reward them with easily digestible Kelties. Healthy snacks for every pooch.

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K9Q Behaviour.indd 91

BVMS MRCVS

November 2017 | 91

22/09/2017 09:57

General Care & Advice

Queries Labradoodle, posed by a model. Photo by Tim Rose (www.timrosephotography.co.uk)

gagging, choking, and sometimes even vomiting. There is also the concern that eating rapidly can be linked to bloat; this is when the stomach fills with gas and becomes painfully distended and, in some cases, can become twisted. This is a serious and potentially life-threatening condition that requires immediate veterinary attention and sometimes surgery. From a nutritional perspective, dogs that inhale their food often do so without even stopping to chew it. Chewing is an important part of the digestive process and failing to do this can lead to a reduction in the amount of essential nutrients that can be absorbed from the food. So, taking steps to slow Susie’s eating is really important, but thankfully there are lots of fun, easy ways to do it: Try a ‘slow feeder’ style bowl; there are plenty to choose from. The aim of these bowls is to make it trickier for Susie to access all of her food at once, by using compartments, gullies and odd shapes. Not only will this slow down her eating, but it’s also a good mental workout, too. Alternatively, put a toy in her bowl, such as a large ball (ensure it’s one she can’t choke on). This will also help to stop her eating her food in one go. Try feeding her meals from an activity feeder toy. There are lots of different puzzles and ball toys that you can fill with her dry kibble, and others, such as Kongs, that you can stuff with wet food. This will not only stop her from guzzling her dinner but will also satisfy her natural urge to scavenge. You can use these indoors or out in the garden. Set up a ‘doggie treasure hunt’ and hide her dry kibble around your home and garden. She will love the challenge of having to forage for her food. Feeding her smaller, but more frequent, meals will also help optimise her digestion and reduce the risk of bloat.

•

〈

• •

Eating too fast have an 18-month-old Q ILabradoodle called Susie,

who goes crazy around mealtimes. As soon as I put her bowl on the floor, she eats like she’s starving! She has done this since she was a pup, and I am concerned it’s not improving. Is there anything I can do to slow her down?

•

ANNA CHERRY ADVISES... This a very common problem that we often see in dogs, and I know many readers will be nodding sympathetically. Unfortunately, eating too fast is not just a harmless habit; it can have serious health consequences. Guzzling down their food in a matter of seconds can place dogs at risk of

•

Good luck. I hope this will help Susie and she will relish her new, fun mealtimes!

GB Burns Original

Chicken & Brown Rice

Composition : Brown Rice (67%), Chicken Meal (20%), Oats, Peas, Chicken Oil, Sunflower Oil, Seaweed, Vitamins & Minerals.

I Burns Original Pollo e Riso Integrale

I Burns Original

Pollo e Riso Integrale

life lthy g hea a lon

F Burns Original Poulet et Riz complet

for trition al nu Natur

Composition : Riz complet (67%), Farine de poulet (20%), Petits pois, Huile de poulet, Huile de tournesol, Algues, Vitamines et Minéraux.

F Burns Original

Poulet et Riz complet

Composition : Riz complet (67%), Farine de poulet (20%), Petits pois, Huile de poulet, Huile de tournesol, Algues, Vitamines et Minéraux.

D Burns Original Huhn & Brauner Reis Ein Komplettfutter für ausgewachsene und ältere Hunde aller Rassen.

D Burns Original

Inhaltsstoffe : Brauner Reis (67%), Hühnermehl (20%), Hafer, Erbsen, Hühneröl, Sonnenblumenöl, Seetang, Vitamine & Mineralstoffe.

Huhn & Brauner Reis

Burns food is intended to ensure good health in all ages and breeds of adult dogs. This variety is also approved as a DIETETIC FOOD for the nutritional management of:

The reduction of ingredient and nutrient intolerances. The support of skin function in case of dermatosis and excessive loss of hair.

The regulation of lipid metabolism in case of hyperlipidaemia.

The compensation for maldigestion.

The support of liver function in case of chronic liver insufficiency.

lthy g hea a lon

Suitable for the support of renal function in case of chronic renal insufficiency and reduction of struvite stone recurrence if fed in conjunction with Burns Hypo - Allergenic Mixer.

for rition l nut Natura

The regulation of lipid metabolism in case of hyperlipidaemia.

life

Please contact our nutritionists for more information.

Email : info@burnspet.co.uk

Nutrition Helpline : 0800 083 66 96

Email : info@burnspet.co.uk

We recommend that a Veterinary Surgeon’s opinion be sought on how to best manage the above conditions.

E Burns Original de pollo y arroz integral E Burns Original

Ingredientes: Arroz integral (67%), pasta de pollo (20%), guisantes, avena, grasa de pollo, aceite de girasol, algas marinas, vitaminas y minerales.

gr/giorno. g/jour. g/Tag. g/día Anziano. Senior. Älterer Hund. Senior

20 - 40g 40 - 80g 80 - 160g 160 - 240g 240 - 320g 320 - 400g

Get in touch, we’d love to hear from you...

Email : info@burnspet.co.uk www.burnspet.co.uk burnspet.co.uk/facebook burnspet.co.uk/twitter burnspet.co.uk/youtube Burns Pet Nutrition Ltd, Ferry Rd, Kidwelly, Carmarthenshire, SA17 5EJ

92 | November 2017

K9Q General.indd 92

Burns Weight Control+ has been designed to help dogs reach and maintain a healthy weight. High in fibre and naturally delicious, it’s ideal for overweight dogs.

de pollo y arroz integral

FREE PET NUTRITION HELPLINE: 0800 083 66 96

Ingredientes: Arroz integral (67%), pasta de pollo (20%), guisantes, avena, grasa de pollo, aceite de girasol, algas marinas, vitaminas y minerales.

WEIGHT CONTROL + Indicazioni per l’uso. Rations quotidiennes approximatives. Tägliche Futtermenge. Indicaciones para la alimentación.

gr/giorno. g/jour. g/Tag. g/día

Anziano. Senior. Älterer Hund. Senior

20 - 40g 40 - 80g 80 - 160g 160 - 240g 240 - 320g 320 - 400g

WEIGHT CONTROL+

Email : info@burnspet.co.uk www.burnspet.co.uk burnspet.co.uk/facebook burnspet.co.uk/twitter burnspet.co.uk/youtube Burns Pet Nutrition Ltd, Ferry Rd, Kidwelly, Carmarthenshire, SA17 5EJ

15kg

150

SCAN ME

Indicazioni per l’uso. Rations quotidiennes approximatives. Tägliche Futtermenge. Indicaciones para la alimentación.

SCAN ME

STUART SIMONS ADVISES... Staining is a real problem for the Bichon Frise. Because they are white, any staining shows up easily. The staining can also be a little smelly, depending on what’s causing it – yeast infections, for example, can sometimes cause this type of problem, but a vet can give you more info on that. Because so many things can contribute to staining, it would be impossible for me to pinpoint exactly why it is occurring. First consult your vet to make absolutely sure there is no underlying health issue. Once this has been confirmed, I would start ruling out things your dog may be allergic to. The brown staining is usually caused by saliva and appears due to excessive licking. In fact, you will probably find the staining wherever there is moisture. I would check under the eyes, as well as around her vagina. My Bichon gets this problem during spring and summer, and she has an issue with pollen and grass seeds. Once September comes round, it miraculously disappears. There are lots of products on the market to help with staining, and your groomer can give you advice on which they recommend once your vet has ruled out anything more sinister. To find a professional groomer in your area, go to www.the groomersspotlight.com

Please contact our nutritionists for more information.

Nutrition Helpline : 0800 083 66 96

Ein Komplettfutter für ausgewachsene und ältere Hunde aller Rassen.

Burns food is intended to ensure good health in all ages and breeds of adult dogs. This variety is also approved as a DIETETIC FOOD for the nutritional management of:

The compensation for maldigestion.

Ingredienti : Riso integrale (67%), farina di pollo (20%), avena, piselli, olio di pollo, olio di semi di girasole, alghe marine, vitamine e minerali.

staining on her feet. I don’t think it’s grass stains, as it’s more browny/grey than green. How do I get rid of this, and is there anything I can do to prevent it, or at least stop it getting any worse?

Shed the pounds in 2017!

GB Burns Original Chicken & Brown Rice Composition : Brown Rice (67%), Chicken Meal (20%), Oats, Peas, Chicken Oil, Sunflower Oil, Seaweed, Vitamins & Minerals.

Ingredienti : Riso integrale (67%), farina di pollo (20%), avena, piselli, olio di pollo, olio di semi di girasole, alghe marine, vitamine e minerali.

Stained feet two-year-old Bichon Q My Frise cross has awful

7.5kg

meals*

•

Developed by Veterinary Surgeon

BVMS MRCVS

7.5kg

meals*

www.dogsmonthly.co.uk

22/09/2017 09:49

“How will I know when she’s about to give birth?” for large litters to arrive early. Also, and so that you can step in to help if bitch is due to have Q My be prepared – most pups are born need be, or contact a vet as required. puppies soon. I am very excited and want to be there for the birth, but I’m worried I might miss it. Is there any way of knowing when she is likely to give birth, or could it be any time around her due date?

overnight. I let my girls sleep in the bedroom so I ensure they wake me up when something starts happening! It is essential to monitor whelping to ensure everything runs smoothly,

Whelping is always a special, magical time and I always feel privileged to watch new life entering the world. You definitely don’t want to miss it!

SUE WILLIAMS ADVISES... All bitches are different; however, many give clues prior to whelping. If you know your bitch well and have a good relationship with her, these will be pretty apparent. I can usually tell up to three days before. Whelping consists of two phases, and the first can last as long as several days. It is during this time that your bitch is likely to show changes in her behaviour, such as nesting, going off her food, and sometimes vomiting. In addition, you may notice physical changes, including the production of milk and a change in her shape, which you will often hear breeders refer to as a bitch ‘dropping’. As whelping becomes imminent, most bitches frantically nest-build, dig, pant, and are generally really restless. Contractions are easily seen as each puppy begins to make its journey into the world. I always like to monitor pregnant bitches closely for a good week before the due date, as it is common

〉

Food intolerance & itchy skin may be worth a try, as food allergies Old English Sheepdog Q My or intolerances are a common cause of often gets hair in and around

his eyes. He also seems to be very itchy. I cut the hair around his eyes regularly. What else can I do? JOHN BURNS ADVISES... It depends on what is causing him to itch – is it seasonal or year-round? If it is year-round, then a change of diet

itchy skin. It is also worth considering the treats he is having, as many contain ingredients that can cause reactions. Overfeeding is a common cause of itchy skin too, as extra waste products in the body can make dogs itch, so check his feeding amounts and adjust accordingly.

GB Burns Original Chicken & Brown Rice Composition : Brown Rice (67%), Chicken Meal (20%), Oats, Peas, Chicken Oil, Sunflower Oil, Seaweed, Vitamins & Minerals.

Burns food is intended to ensure good health in all ages and breeds of adult dogs. This variety is also approved as a DIETETIC FOOD for the nutritional management of:

The reduction of ingredient and nutrient intolerances.

I Burns Original Pollo e Riso Integrale GB Burns Original Chicken & Brown Rice

GB Burns Original Chicken & Brown Rice

I Burns Original Pollo e Riso Integrale

F Burns Original Poulet et Riz complet

D Burns Original Huhn & Brauner Reis

for rition l nut Natura

D Burns Original Huhn & Brauner Reis

Inhaltsstoffe : Brauner Reis (67%), Hühnermehl (20%), Hafer, Erbsen, Hühneröl, Sonnenblumenöl, Seetang, Vitamine & Mineralstoffe.

www.dogsmonthly.co.uk

K9Q General.indd 93

healthy

life

The support of liver function in case of chronic liver insufficiency.

Suitable for the support of renal function in case of chronic renal insufficiency and reduction of struvite stone recurrence if fed in conjunction with Burns Hypo - Allergenic Mixer.

Nutrition Helpline : 0800 083 66 96

Email : info@burnspet.co.uk

Please contact our nutritionists for more information.

We recommend that a Veterinary Surgeon’s opinion be sought on how to best manage the above conditions.

Nutrition Helpline : 0800 083 66 96

Email : info@burnspet.co.uk

Indicazioni per l’uso. Rations quotidiennes approximatives. Tägliche Futtermenge. Indicaciones para la alimentación.

ORIGINAL

gr/giorno. g/jour. g/Tag. g/día

Anziano. Senior. Älterer Hund. Senior

20 - 40g 40 - 80g 80 - 160g 160 - 240g 240 - 320g 320 - 400g

gr/giorno. g/jour. g/Tag. g/día

Anziano. Senior. Älterer Hund. Senior

ORIGINAL 20 - 40g 40 - 80g 80 - 160g 160 - 240g 240 - 320g 320 - 400g

ORIGINAL• •

•

Email : info@burnspet.co.uk www.burnspet.co.uk burnspet.co.uk/facebook burnspet.co.uk/twitter burnspet.co.uk/youtube

•

Burns Pet Nutrition Ltd, Ferry Rd, Kidwelly, Carmarthenshire, SA17 5EJ

2kg

•

HYPO-ALLERGENIC meals*

7.5kg

SCAN ME

Anziano. Senior. Älterer Hund. Senior

20 - 40g 40 - 80g 80 - 160g 160 - 240g 240 - 320g 320 - 400g

SCAN ME

Get in touch, we’d love to hear from you...

long

Nutrition Helpline : 0800 083 66 96

Email : info@burnspet.co.uk

E Burns Original de pollo y arroz integral Ingredientes: Arroz integral (67%), pasta de pollo (20%), guisantes, avena, grasa de pollo, aceite de girasol, algas marinas, vitaminas y minerales.

SCAN ME

gr/giorno. g/jour. g/Tag. g/día

for a

The regulation of lipid metabolism in case of hyperlipidaemia.

life

Ingredientes: Arroz integral (67%), pasta de pollo (20%), guisantes, avena, grasa de pollo, aceite de girasol, algas marinas, vitaminas y minerales.

Indicazioni per l’uso. Rations quotidiennes approximatives. Tägliche Futtermenge. Indicaciones para la alimentación.

rition

Nat

essenzielle Fettsäuren 2,09%, Kalium 0,32%,insufficiency. Schwefel 0,27%, Chlorid 0,20%.

contact our nutritionists for more information. E Burns Original de polloPlease y arroz integral

E Burns Original de pollo y arroz integral

Burns Pet Nutrition Ltd, Ferry Rd, Kidwelly, Carmarthenshire, SA17 5EJ

a long

of adult dogs. This variety is also approved as a DIETETIC FOOD

Ein Komplettfutter für ausgewachsene und ältere Hunde aller Rassen.

Email : info@burnspet.co.uk www.burnspet.co.uk burnspet.co.uk/facebook burnspet.co.uk/twitter burnspet.co.uk/youtube

healthy

F Burns Original Poulet et Riz complet

Burns food is intended to ensure good health in all ages and breeds of adult dogs. This variety is also approved as a DIETETIC FOOD for the nutritional management of:

Ingredienti : Riso integrale (67%), farina di pollo (20%), avena, piselli, olio di pollo, olio di semi di girasole, alghe marine, vitamine e minerali.

The compensation for maldigestion.

F Burns Original Poulet et Riz complet

I Burns Original Pollo e Riso Integrale

Composition : Brown Rice (67%), Chicken Meal (20%), Oats, Peas, Chicken Oil, Sunflower Oil, Seaweed, Vitamins & Minerals.

The support of skin function in case of dermatosis and excessive loss of hair.

Ingredienti : Riso integrale (67%), farina di pollo (20%), avena, piselli, olio di pollo, olio di semi di girasole, alghe marine, vitamine e minerali.

Composition : Brown Rice (67%), Chicken Meal (20%), Oats, Peas, Chicken Oil, Sunflower Oil, Seaweed, Vitamins & Minerals.

meals*

•

15kg

Searching for natural dog food? Burns Original is an award-winning dry dog food range that uses natural ingredients to offer pets a healthy and happy life. Try all 3 varieties.

www.burnspet.co.uk

•

If you think the problem may be environmental, it can be helpful to use a baby wipe after a walk to remove any pollen from the skin, and it is also worth checking the cleaning products and washing powders you use for his bedding. A good dog groomer will be able to advise you further on the hair that gets stuck in the eyes.

•

Developed by Veterinary Surgeon

BVMS MRCVS

150 meals*

November 2017 | 93

22/09/2017 09:49

General Care & Advice

Cosmo, a Lurcher. Posed by a model. Photo by Tim Rose (www.timrosephotography.co.uk)

Queries Living with a Labrador Q

My black Labrador puppy is seven months old. He is my first dog, and I’m just grooming him with a Zoom Groom. Is this OK, or should I be using something else? I’ve not noticed massive amounts of hair coming out, but when will he start to moult properly? People at my puppy class say I will know about it when he does…

〈

STUART SIMONS ADVISES... It sounds to me as if you are doing everything correctly. A nice bath, brush and de-shed is all that this dog will need. To get him used to it so early is absolutely the best thing that you could have done. Some adult Labradors shed very little, and others drop absolutely loads of undercoat. You don’t generally know until it happens. If you have a heavy-shedding dog, then there are a number of tools that you can use. A Zoom Groom is great, but you might also consider a Furminator or a Coat King. Please make sure that you use these tools carefully, as they can be quite harsh if pressed too hard into the body. Nothing compares to a regular professional groom, though. A salon’s high-velocity dryers can remove a lot more undercoat than you can achieve at home. Also, make sure you have a really good vacuum cleaner!

Bonfire night menu dog gets quite agitated on bonfire night, and last year he Q My went right off his food and wouldn’t eat at all. Should I feed

him something different, like chicken, that he might find tastier, or do you have any other advice about feeding that might be worth trying? JOHN BURNS ADVISES... It might be worth trying home-cooking during this period. Fish can be good for dogs that are anxious, as it is high in tryptophan and leads to an increase in the calming hormone serotonin being produced in the dog’s brain. Oats are also high in tryptophan, so a small amount of porridge may also help. If you change his diet to add these in, I would recommend that you do it as soon as possible, so that he gets used to the food before bonfire night. If you find something he really likes, you could fill a Kong with it, which will also help to distract him. It may also be worth having a chat with your vet or dog trainer about other ways to calm him down over bonfire night.

GB Burns Original Chicken & Brown Rice Composition : Brown Rice (67%), Chicken Meal (20%), Oats, Peas, Chicken Oil, Sunflower Oil, Seaweed, Vitamins & Minerals.

Burns food is intended to ensure good health in all ages and breeds of adult dogs. This variety is also approved as a DIETETIC FOOD for the nutritional management of:

GB Burns Original Chicken & Brown Rice Composition : Brown Rice (67%), Chicken Meal (20%), Oats, Peas, Chicken Oil, Sunflower Oil, Seaweed, Vitamins & Minerals.

Ingredienti : Riso integrale (67%), farina di pollo (20%), avena, piselli, olio di pollo, olio di semi di girasole, alghe marine, vitamine e minerali.

GB Burns Original

I Burns Original

I Burns Original Pollo e Riso Integrale

Chicken & Brown Rice

Composition : Brown Rice (67%), Chicken Meal (20%), Oats, Peas, Chicken Oil, Sunflower Oil, Seaweed, Vitamins & Minerals.

F Burns Poulet et Riz complet for Original the nutritional management of:

Composition : Riz complet (67%), Farine de poulet (20%), Petits pois, Huile de poulet, Huile de tournesol, Algues, Vitamines et Minéraux. The reduction of ingredient and nutrient intolerances.

y life health long for a The regulation of lipid metabolism trition in case of hyperlipidaemia. al nu Natur

Pollo e Riso Integrale

F Burns Original

Poulet et Riz complet

D Burns Original

Huhn & Brauner Reis

Ein Komplettfutter für ausgewachsene und ältere Hunde aller Rassen.

F Burns Original Poulet et Riz complet

lthy g hea a lon

for rition l nut Natura

D Burns Original Huhn & Brauner Reis

Please contact our nutritionists for more information.

Email : info@burnspet.co.uk

Nutrition Helpline : 0800 083 66 96

We recommend that a Veterinary Surgeon’s opinion be sought on how to best manage the above conditions.

Email : info@burnspet.co.uk

Our team of nutrition experts can help you get the best results from Burns. Whether you need in-depth advice on managing specific health

E Burnsproblems Original de pollo y arrozfeeding integral or simply fine tuning amounts, Burns has the

The regulation of lipid metabolism in case of hyperlipidaemia.

We recommend that a Veterinary Surgeon’s opinion be sought on how to best manage the above conditions.

experience and knowledge to help.

Nutrition Helpline : 0800 083 66 96

Ingredientes: Arroz integral (67%), pasta de pollo (20%), guisantes, avena, grasa de pollo, aceite de girasol, algas marinas, vitaminas y minerales.

Email : info@burnspet.co.uk

E Burns Original de pollo y arroz integral

Ingredientes: Arroz integral (67%), pasta de pollo (20%), guisantes, avena, grasa de pollo, aceite de girasol, algas marinas, vitaminas y minerales.

We recommend that a Veterinary Surgeon’s opinion be sought on how to best

de pollo y arroz integral

Indicazioni per l’uso. Rations quotidiennes approximatives. Tägliche Futtermenge. Indicaciones para la alimentación.

gr/giorno. g/jour. g/Tag. g/día

Anziano. Senior. Älterer Hund. Senior

20 - 40g 40 - 80g 80 - 160g 160 - 240g 240 - 320g 320 - 400g

94 | November 2017

K9Q General.indd 94

SENSITIVE + gr/giorno. g/jour. g/Tag. g/día

Indicazioni per l’uso. Rations quotidiennes approximatives. Tägliche Futtermenge. Indicaciones para la alimentación.

SENSITIVE + gr/giorno. g/jour. g/Tag. g/día

Anziano. Senior. Älterer Hund. Senior

20 - 40g 40 - 80g 80 - 160g 160 - 240g 240 - 320g 320 - 400g

Anziano. Senior. Älterer Hund. Senior

20 - 40g 40 - 80g 80 - 160g 160 - 240g 240 - 320g 320 - 400g

SCAN ME

Burns Pet Nutrition Ltd, Ferry Rd, Kidwelly, Carmarthenshire, SA17 5EJ

7.5kg

meals*

7.5kg

HYPO-ALLERGENIC

7.5kg

Burns Sensitive+ contains novel protein which may be beneficial to dogs with food intolerances. Choose from Duck & Rice or Pork & Potato.

FREE PET NUTRITION HELPLINE: 0800 083 66 96

SENSITIVE +

Email : info@burnspet.co.uk www.burnspet.co.uk burnspet.co.uk/facebook burnspet.co.uk/twitter burnspet.co.uk/youtube

Email : info@burnspet.co.uk www.burnspet.co.uk burnspet.co.uk/facebook burnspet.co.uk/twitter burnspet.co.uk/youtube Burns Pet Nutrition Ltd, Ferry Rd, Kidwelly, Carmarthenshire, SA17 5EJ

Indicazioni per l’uso. Rations quotidiennes approximatives. Tägliche Futtermenge. Indicaciones para la alimentación.

SCAN ME

E Burns Original

Ingredientes: Arroz integral (67%), pasta de pollo (20%), guisantes, avena, grasa de pollo, aceite de girasol, algas marinas, vitaminas y minerales.

Does your dog suffer from food intolerances?

Nutrition Helpline : 0800 083 66 96

Suitable for the support of renal function in case of

Ein Komplettfutter für ausgewachsene und ältere Hunde aller Rassen.

recurrence if fed in conjunction with Burns Hypo - Allergenic Mixer.

D Burns Original Huhn & Brauner Reis

life

The support of skin function in case of dermatosis and excessive loss of hair.

Burns food is intended to ensure good health in all ages and breeds of adult dogs. This variety is also approved as a DIETETIC FOOD

The compensation for maldigestion.

The reduction of ingredient and nutrient intolerances. The support of skin function in case of dermatosis and excessive loss of hair.

Ingredienti : Riso integrale (67%), farina di pollo (20%), avena, piselli, olio di pollo, olio di semi di girasole, alghe marine, vitamine e minerali.

The reduction of ingredient and nutrient intolerances.

Burns food is intended to ensure good health in all ages and breeds of adult dogs. This variety is also approved as a DIETETIC FOOD for the nutritional management of:

I Burns Original Pollo e Riso Integrale

15kg

Developed by Veterinary Surgeon

BVMS MRCVS

150 meals*

meals*

www.dogsmonthly.co.uk

22/09/2017 09:50

Crate training a puppy crate. Of course, as you point out, a Cockapoo puppy, is Q Hugo, a problem does arise in the initial going to be joining our family shortly. We have decided to use a crate for night-time and for periods during the day when we can’t watch him. I have read about how we need to get him used to the crate first, before actually leaving him in it, but when should we begin this process and what do we do in the meantime?

SUE WILLIAMS ADVISES... It is fantastic that you have done your homework and have a plan in place about how to teach Hugo to love his

stages while you are implementing the gradual training. Personally, I use a crate immediately. It helps me to teach a puppy how to cope when he’s alone. I like to start teaching this from the start, as if you leave it till later, the result is likely to be an overly clingy pup who falls apart when left alone. This can lead to major behavioural issues, such as separation anxiety. Obviously, it is critical to ensure the puppy doesn’t get stressed, so you need to monitor him closely. Make sure the crate is located in a suitable

position and that you make it cosy inside with nice bedding and safe toys. I find that covering the top of the crate with a cloth or blanket helps to settle the pup and make him feel more secure. Young puppies need to sleep a lot, so I plan the crate time to coincide with when they are tired, as this means they are more likely to settle and fall asleep quickly. Combining this approach with positive reinforcement methods to acclimatise the puppy to the crate works really well and results in a happy, confident pup who loves spending time in his ‘den’.

Grooming anxiety new rescue dog is a medium-sized crossbreed Q Our with quite a shaggy coat. He will stand quite

happily to be stroked and groomed until we get anywhere near his back end. Then he whips round, very agitated indeed, and although he’s not snapped at us yet, I think he might do if we didn’t stop. I’m guessing he has had some kind of bad experience in the past. Would it better to take him to a grooming parlour and let them try? I’m worried the groomer might muzzle him, though, and then that could make him even worse.

Crossbreed. Posed by a model

STUART SIMONS ADVISES... There could be many reasons why your new rescue dog is behaving in this way. Personally, before you go any further, I would advise a vet visit to rule out any spinal, leg, gland or other internal issues. Once your pet has been given a clean bill of health, a professional groomer should be able to help you with his groom. Obviously, if it hurts, they will stop. No good groomer will force a dog to go through pain for vanity’s sake. They should instead advise another vet visit. If, however, the problem is psychological, then a little careful handling and gentle coaxing should work wonders. The more your dog visits the groomer, or is groomed at home and gets rewarded, the more he will become desensitised to the process. You could contact a reputable, qualified behaviourist to help you. If he does try to bite, then a groomer has every right to protect themselves from a stressed, biting dog. A muzzle is effective protection and shouldn’t make the problem worse, provided the groomer is using correct handling techniques.

Healthy treats for your canine friend! Help your dog to shed the puppy fat with Weight Control Treats or reward them with easily digestible Kelties. Healthy snacks for every pooch.

www.burnspet.co.uk Developed by Veterinary Surgeon

www.dogsmonthly.co.uk

K9Q General.indd 95

BVMS MRCVS

November 2017 | 95

22/09/2017 09:50

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25/09/2017 19:33

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25/09/2017 19:40

Tail end

Pest control

About the author

From the dog’s mouth…

Eavesdropping MOLLY hears something she wishes she hadn’t…

oday has been a stressful and unenjoyable day, readers. It started well enough, with a peaceful amble and sniff around the garden while the humans enacted their usual frenzied morning routine of rushing around the house, shouting about things they could not find, drinking coffee, spilling cereal on the floor (no complaints from me there – I appreciate an extra snack in the morning) and general manic activity. But by 9am the front door had banged closed repeatedly, and I was left in peace to enjoy my morning nap. At some point, I was woken by the telephone ringing, and I raised my head to listen to any message that was left. I realise this makes me sound somewhat nosy, but I do like to be well informed. For example, if an invitation to a party is extended, I can start to think about my own plans for the day while the humans are out. If a new item is ready for collection from a shop, I can assess its relevance to my own life. So, as usual, I cocked my head to one side and listened carefully. And this, readers, is what I heard: “Hi, Andy from Humane Pest Control Remedies here. Just returning your call.” Sleepy puzzlement instantly gave way to acute pangs of anxiety. What control remedies? Control 98 |November 2017

Tail End Nov.indd 98

of what? Suddenly the definition of the word ‘pest’ assumed an allconsuming significance. Memories came flooding back unbidden of other contexts in which I had had heard that word. “Molly has been such a pest today, she snatched a box of tissues and shredded them all over the garden”; “Molly, you pest, don’t you dare!”; “Mummy, she has taken my trainers again, and now they’re covered in her slobber! She is such a pest.” I sat up, swallowed nervously and tried to steady my breathing, which had become rather shallow and rapid. I was not entirely sure what a ‘control remedy’ would entail, but it did not sound fun. Viewed in the light of a worst-case scenario situation, it sounded potentially very bad indeed. But surely, I reasoned with myself, I was a much-loved pet. Surely all my playful antics were just that. Nothing for anyone to get seriously upset about. But then I happened to glance around and take in the deep scratch marks on the sofa (I had got a bit carried away when in a nesting mood last summer…). I observed the many objects that are now stored on top of the fridge because of my repeated successes in dragging them from work surfaces. I looked at the mess around my food bowls and the clumps of my hair dotted around

the corners of the room, and my nerve crumbled. I passed an utterly miserable few hours, my friends, in which my emotions swung from anxiety to anger, and back through to anxiety before I settled to work on plans as to how I would become a reformed character from the moment the humans returned to the house. I would become the most perfectly behaved Airedale Terrier the world has ever seen. And Andy and his control remedies would be dismissed back to whatever appalling dimension of the universe they had emerged from to cause me such grave upset. That evening I waited on tenterhooks for someone to press the play button on the answering machine. Finally, after what felt like an eternity, my mistress listened to the message that had ruined my day. And do you know what she did on hearing it? She wrinkled her nose in confusion, muttered, “That’s weird, wrong number I guess,” and wandered off. A wrong number? Well, as the humans say, I was in need of a stiff drink… whatever that is. I suppose the only positive I can salvage from the whole sorry debacle is that my plans to become the Airedale Terrier of my owners’ dreams can be firmly consigned to the scrapheap where they belong. c

Molly Taylor is widely regarded as the outstanding Airedale Terrier of her generation. She has lived with her family, who are first-time dog owners, since she was a puppy and although she has taught them all they know, they still have a long way to go. Molly enjoys sleeping, eating and country walks, and has an honours degree in kitchen bin raiding.

www.dogsmonthly.co.uk

22/09/17 11:34

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REF: DOGS

25/09/2017 17:11

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25/09/2017 19:04