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Dogs and Autumn

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Saying goodbye to Summer doesn’t necessarily mean saying goodbye to clear skies, sunshine or even seasonal allergies! With Autumn also comes cooler days, darker mornings/evenings and lovely changing landscapes – all which can disrupt you and your dog’s routine. Here are some handy tips and tricks for tackling the new season with your dog!

Daylight – Autumn means less daylight and therefore darker mornings and evenings. This will likely mean that your daily dog walks take place in darkness which can be a safety hazard for both you and your dog. If possible, stay in well lit areas so you can see where you’re walking and if needed, take a torch to highlight paths. Reflective materials will keep you and your dog visible to cars – reflective jackets, collars and flashing lights are all available for a reasonable price and I’ve even used a cat bell on my dog’s collar so I can hear her in the dark! This is particularly handy for dogs with dark coats like mine. Also watch out for broken class and tree roots – I have tripped over a fair few roots myself when out walking during a dark morning!

Cooler Weather – As it’s getting colder in the mornings and evenings, this can affect how you choose to groom your dog. Long hair will be better in keeping your dog warm as opposed to a close trimmed coat during the warmer seasons. It may be an idea to invest in dog clothing such as a coat if your dog is comfortable with it. There are even coats available for long haired dogs (who have shorter legs) that wrap right around the body! This is ideal for keeping your dog’s coat clean too.

Allergies – Often when summer ends, allergies can crop up considerably due to the harvest months and change of season. Look out for any unusual skin conditions and breathing issues such as coughing or snorting. Seek Veterinary guidance if needed as many allergies can be remedied by antihistamines (these work really well for my dog who often develops irritating skin conditions/scratching).

Exercise – You may find that it’s difficult to get out and about with your dog due to bad weather conditions. If you worry that you’re dog isn’t getting enough exercise then please see more of our blog for how to exercise your dog during a spell of bad weather. Keeping your dog active and healthy during the winter months is essential so if an indoor obstacle course needs to be set up then it should be. Even in the cold and bad weather, you’re dog still needs exercise!

Halloween Treats – Needless to say, dogs should not be given any sweeties or chocolate during this season – even if it is Halloween! Keep your dog’s food to meat and veg and make sure they drink plenty of water. When out with your dog, also beware of rotting twigs/leaves which they might pick up. Upset tummies aren’t pleasant for either party!

 

 

A Few Simple Rules for Pregnant Dog Owners

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Bringing home a baby can be especially daunting when you have a pet. Once the object of your affection, a dog can be deeply unsettled by the arrival of a newborn who steals away your attention!

DO Prepare in advance

Start making changes in your dog’s routine when you’re pregnant, at least 6 months before the baby is due to arrive.

Change your routine – this means everything from the time of walks to feeding times.

Walk your dog erratically and feed your dog inside and outside.

Scatter food in the garden for him/her to find.

Your dog should not see his bowl as the only food source.

This prevents your dog  getting defensive if your baby goes near its food bowl.

Stop hand feeding your dog if you’re guilty of this.

Your dog may try to take food from your baby’s hand.

Stop any excessive jumping well before the baby arrives.

Remember … Dogs learn by association and repetition.

DO set boundaries 

  • Ignore your dog at times and particularly  – don’t respond to their attention seeking behaviours.
  • They definitely won’t have your attention when you have a baby to look after!
  • Praise and make a fuss of your dog when he/she isn’t making a noise or demanding anything.
  • Play at your command – if your dog wants to play then don’t indulge him/her.
  • Only instigate play when you have the time.
  • Set boundaries – places like sofas should be off limits to your dog.
  • You probably won’t want them jumping around places where your baby might be.
  • Let the whole family know the rules and stick to them.
  • Invest in a crate –it provides a comfortable place for your dog to sleep in and retreat to.
  • It’s especially useful in the first few months when you will have constant visitors.
  • The increase in activity can overwhelm many dogs.
  • Secure your garden. Your dog can happily play in the garden when you have to deal with the baby.

The Baby’s Arrival

  • Arrival – ideally  have someone else carry the baby into the house.
  • Remember, to your dog the size of his pack has just increased. To him the baby is like a new puppy arriving.
  • The vast majority of dogs accept a new baby easily BUT your dog is not a little human and has canine instincts.
  • NEVER bend down and let the dog sniff the baby.
  • NEVER leave a baby and dog unattended.
  • The shrill cry of a baby can over-excite a dog. Be ready to correct any unwanted behaviour.
  • When you sit down with the baby make sure your dog is kept on the ground.
  • This is not a time to have your dog up on the sofa with you.
  • Introduce the two – proceed with caution and be wary of how your dog might act.

Spring Has Sprung (Well almost!)

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Scottish Outdoor Access Code: What you need to know

For most dog owners, springtime means spending more time outside and exploring the countryside or city parks with their favourite companion. However, some people may not be aware of the Scottish Outdoor Access Code which highlights your rights and responsibilities as a dog owner.

The main points of the country code are as follows:

  •  Don’t take your dog into a field where there are lambs, calves or other young animals.
  •  Don’t take your dog into a field of vegetables and fruit.
  •  Keep your dog on a short lead or under close control in: –

A. Fields where there are cows and horses.
B. Fields where there are sheep.
C. Areas where ground-nesting birds are breeding and rearing their young.
D. Near Reservoirs and stream intakes.
E. Near Recreational areas and other public places.

  • Always clean up after your dog in any public open place.

Did you know…

  • Cows can get very aggressive when protecting their calves.
  • A dog running loose in a field of pregnant animals or mothers with their young will cause immense stress to the animals.
  • A farmer can have the right to shoot your dog.
  • If possible try to avoid walking through fields with cattle during breeding season.
  • If you have to cross a field make sure your dog is on a lead and under control. Give the animals distance and walk slowly and calmly.
  • An excited or barking dog can spook livestock particularly if they are pregnant or with their young.
  • Diseases can spread from leftover faeces to your dog and other animals.
  • Diseases can be transmitted from fields containing fruit and vegetables to your dog.

Remember

  • Keep your dog under close control – Particularly in Spring, with the arrival of new calves and lambs, dogs chasing farm animals can cause considerable upset. A pregnant ewe can miscarry or a newborn lamb may become separated from its mother and rejected upon its return.
  •  Cattle can act aggressively and risk injury and distress to themselves and others if provoked. If possible, avoid taking your dog through these fields with young farm animals or, alternatively, have them on a short lead to keep them close at hand.
  • Avoid disturbing ground-nesting birds – They can be found in areas such as moorland, forests, grassland and shores. It is very important that these nests remain undisturbed as an adult bird can abandon its young altogether if forced off the nest. Listen out for alarm calls and look out for birds circulating the area to best minimise disturbance.
  • Working breed dogs – These dogs are most likely to cause disturbances of birds and farm animals as they characteristically love to run through the undergrowth sniffing everything as they go. Typical dogs can include springer/cocker spaniels, labradors and of course labradoodles and many terrier types. I just avoid these areas with my working cocker spaniel during breeding season. Usually the larger country parks put up notices to remind walkers.
  • Breeding season can last from March through to June.

6 Surprising Dog Facts

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We sometimes like to think we know everything about our pets but occasionally a fact crops up that takes us by surprise! Here are a few surprising facts you might not already know:

  1. Dogs can be scared of extreme weather because of their acute hearing – Ever wondered why your dog doesn’t like to go out in heavy rain? It isn’t because they mind getting wet (although they possibly  do), it’s because the sound of raindrops is far greater to their sensitive ears than it is to ours. A dogs hearing is 10 times more acute than ours. Ever noticed your dog start to pace and whine long before you hear the clap of thunder? Your dog will know a storm is coming well before you do. Be firm when going outside in bad weather – your dog will mirror your body language and if you have nothing to fear, then neither will they.
  2. A dog uses its wet nose  to suss out the direction of scents–   Healthy dogs generally have a cold wet nose. If your dog’s nose consistently becomes dry and warm then it could be a sign of poor ventilation in the house, sunburn or a skin disorder (if scabbed or flaking). An occasional dry nose is not an issue but if it  persists then it may be wise to seek veterinary guidance.
  3. Dog’s don’t sweat – Unlike humans, dog’s do not have sweat pores on their skin although they do have them on their paw pads (which is why paws should be cleaned and dried). As a result, if they’re warm then they’ll pant to cool down.
  4. Myth of black and white – It’s a myth that your dog can only see in black or white. It’s largely believed that dogs can see in shades of blue, grey and yellow-green. Regardless, your dog might not see in colour but it can however see and scent in the dark!  Unlike us who need to rely on torches and reflective clothing in the winter months!
  5. Dream Dogs!  – It is absolutely true that dogs dream just as we do! You can usually tell when they’re dreaming if they’re twitching or whimpering however DON’T wake them. It’s important not to disturb dogs when they’re sleeping, eating or feeling unwell. Keep your distance and give them space.  It’s advisable to  teach young children not to disturb a dog in these circumstances as a dog will react completely differently to a human when caught off guard.
  6. Old Dogs and New Tricks – Dogs, like humans, can be taught new things at any age so even older dogs can benefit from training! Again like us it’s harder but certainly  possible to change bad habits but it  can take more  time and a great deal of  patience. It’s so much easier to establish a firm training schedule from the beginning.

A Few Fun New Year’s Resolutions for You and Your Dog

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The New Year is a great time to make new goals for yourself but it can also be useful to make some for your dog. Fitness, diet and grooming are all important aspects of everyday life and if you got a new puppy for Christmas then some simple goals can make all the difference in the quality of your dog’s life (and your own!).

Goals can be easier if you’ve got the support (or responsibility) of someone else – in this case, your dog! Be firm and committed to the goals you set. A new dog, or any dog for that matter, can be hard work but if good habits begin to fall by the wayside then simply start over again! Don’t be discouraged as you’ll have a happier, healthier dog if you establish and maintain a few simple goals.

New Year’s Resolution #1 – Fitness

It’s a classic goal for the New Year that nearly everyone sets so why not make it a resolution for your dog too? Aim to go at least one half-hour walk a day if you don’t already and, if possible, let your dog run around off-leash given the area is secure and you have him/her under close control.

Depending on the breed of your dog, it may need more exercise than you think. Do a bit of research – does it need lots of exercise or is it a smaller dog suited to regular leisurely-paced walks? Is your dog older and can’t walk too briskly due to arthritis? Or is it a new puppy under 6 months who isn’t yet able to be walked or over-exercised due to soft bones and developing legs? Make sure your dog’s fitness goals are tailored to suit its health and age.

New Year’s Resolution #2 – Diet

We’ve all said it before: ‘This year I’ll eat more healthily’. But how long does it last? Balance and moderation is the key to keeping a good diet but establishing some new habits is a good way to start.

Dogs, like humans, can get fed up eating the same thing every day. Would you fancy sitting down to a plate of dried kibble every day?…Well neither does your dog. Try to vary your dogs diet. Add lots of crunchy vegetables like carrots, beans, broccoli, even cauliflower florets if your dog likes them. You can also give your dog bits of fruit like apple, pear, banana etc. but avoid grapes and obviously remove any core and stones. Cut up bits of raw veg and fruit and stuff into a Kong type toy where your dog can have lots of fun trying to get the food out.  Fruit and veg are great appetite fillers and in moderation will not put on weight unlike most shop bought treats.

There is nothing wrong with some of your non-processed scraps but make it a resolution to scrape them into his bowl and in this way you will not encourage begging.

New Year’s Resolution #3 – Grooming

Look good, feel good is a motto you hear time and time again. It’s definitely important to take care of yourself but it’s equally important to look after your dog.

Spend time brushing your dog with a high quality brush to remove casting fur. If you have a long-haired breed then you may want to keep their coat trimmed so it’s cooler in summer and warmer for winter. A groomer can take care of this for you if you don’t feel comfortable trimming tricky areas like around the eyes and most will also clip your dog’s nails which can be troublesome if you’re unsure how to do it yourself. As for tear stains then gently apply cotton wool dipped in warm water to soften and remove the stains.

New Year’s Resolution #4 – Quality Time

A lot of owners simply don’t spend enough time with their pets. It’s crucial to your dog’s wellbeing that you spend at LEAST 15 minutes a day playing with them and 15 minutes working on training. If you don’t, then troublesome behaviours can develop such as incessant chewing, barking and destruction.

Set aside a short time each day to play a memory game with your dog like hide and seek or ‘find the treat’. Ball games are excellent but just watch your dog does not become so fixated on the ball he ends up training you to play when he wants!! If you use a toy such as a tug-o-war rope only play if you can be sure you win! Praise your dog when it gets it right. Spending time with your dog helps to establish your authority as owner while mentally challenging your dog so it’s more familiar with your commands. Sticking to a regular routine like this will be mentally stimulating, fun and encourage obedience.

Track Your Progress!

Try to stick to these simple New Year’s resolutions by using a calendar to tick off the days you’ve exercised or the appointments you’ve made for groomers/vets. Does your dog’s coat seem shinier? It’s probably the great diet. Is your dog happy and obedient? Then you’ve made the effort to find time to spend  some quality time with your dog. Persevere and commit to small goals like these to ensure you and your dog are at your happiest and healthiest!

 

 

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