Dogs are man’s best friend according to our proverb, and we would agree!  Coming in all shapes and sizes, they ask for nothing more than love, food and exercise from us. Different breeds of dogs are prone to different medical conditions. For example, dogs with short noses may have difficulty breathing or snore a lot, whilst large dogs may suffer with hip and spinal pain.

Whatever the breed you have, we are sure that you love your pet just as much as they love you! If you are thinking about getting a dog for the first time, we recommend contacting us for a chat about which breeds might suit your lifestyle.

In all cases, there are a few essential nuggets below to help you keep your best friend in best order.

 

1. A complete dog food is essential for your pet’s health and well-being.

 

Wet or dry food is acceptable: if using wet food, you will need to brush your pet’s teeth frequently. If using dry food, remember that it will expand in your pet’s stomach! Avoid feeding large volumes in any single meal and always make sure fresh water is available. We recommend Royal Canin and Hills but many brands are acceptable – just make sure it suits your companion.  Some dogs may prefer meals, some may prefer to graze: either is fine!

 

2. Food bowls must be provided in the interest of hygiene.

They must be kept clean between meals to prevent build-up of bacteria and moulds that can be detrimental to your pet’s health.

 

3. Fresh water must be available at all times.

Ensure that the bowl is cleaned regularly to avoid the build-up of debris and bacteria.  Some dogs may prefer to drink from garden water sources e.g. puddles and ponds. If your dog prefers this, ensure no algae is growing in these areas, or try leaving the water bowl out for 48 hours before changing the water. Tap water has added fluoride to help with our dental health, but it can be an unpleasant taste for our canine companions! Fluoride breaks down readily and will be almost gone after 24 hours of leaving water to stand.

 

4. A comfortable bed should be provided

This should be one that can be easily washed, ideally at a high temperature (for those unfortunate occasions when your pet is ill).  Try to avoid sharing a bed with your dog! Although it can be warm and comfortable for you both, bedrooms are very dusty places. If you or your pet suffers with asthma or allergies, you will be best off sleeping in separate rooms.

 

5. All dogs are legally required to wear a collar with an identification tag and to have a microchip implanted.

The identification tag should include your pet’s name, a contact number and address.  Try to avoid adding too much personal information (this can be used by less moral people holding pets to ransom)! The microchip contains a code for a number.  When scanned, this number gives access to your personal information, kept by the microchip company. This information will only be accessed by authorized persons i.e. your vet, a rescue centre or the police.

 

6. Many dogs will walk very well at heel, but it is a good idea to keep a lead or harness to hand!

You may need firmer control of your pet at times, for example, to pull them away from a less friendly dog.  If your companion weighs less than 12kg, please always use a harness. Pulling on a lead attached to the collar or neck will inflict a small whiplash injury each time, even with very light pressure.

 

7. If your pet will be travelling by car, please ensure that they comply with the law during these times.

A car harness can be purchased that allows them to wear a seatbelt, or if travelling in the boot of the car, a dog guard must be fitted to prevent your friend from being propelled over the top of the seats and through the windscreen in the event of an accident.  Alternatively a car crate may be used.

 

8. Regular health care: your dog will need vaccinations every year and will receive a full health check at this time.

However, we recommend six monthly check-ups – particularly in our older companions or those with on-going conditions – as a minimum to keep up-to-date with your pet’s health.  Ensure that you bring your pet in whenever a problem presents itself – we wouldn’t wait to go to the doctor ourselves, and would dread to make our children wait, so please apply the same thought process to your loving friend!

 

9. Doggie toothbrush and toothpaste:

It is essential to brush your pet’s teeth on a daily basis to keep their mouth free from disease and pain.  Many dogs tolerate this well if introduced to this from a young age.  Be prepared for dental treatment as needed, which could be on an annual or even six-monthly basis if your pet is not amenable to having its teeth brushed or has an on-going condition!

 

10. Regular exercise:

Obesity is a clinical condition that falls well and truly within the remit of the five freedoms.  If you are unable to walk your pet, please make provisions for somebody else to exercise him or her for you.  Dogs should be walked at least twice a day, at a brisk pace, for at least 20 minutes each time.  Of course, different breeds have different exercise requirements and this is only a guideline – for more detailed information on a specific breed, please feel free to contact us.

Standing and chatting to your friends whilst the dogs play together is enjoyable and an important part of your dog’s socialization, but frequently does not provide them with enough exercise.  If they are running around constantly at high speed, this is fine, but few of us have dogs that amuse themselves for so long!  They want to play with you, their companions, as well as their canine friends.  Throwing a ball (of suitable size) or other toy (no sticks or jagged items, please) can provide ample exercise for your pet and gives them more bonding time with you.

Please also remember to bring poo bags out with you and to use the provided bins, unless you are fortunate enough to walk in an area without fouling restrictions.

 

11. Be prepared to deal with any emotional problems your pet may demonstrate.

Frequently encountered examples include fear of thunder or fireworks.  There are many strategies for dealing with these things, including clothing items, calming medications and sedatives. Please contact us for advice if you are worried about your pet.