Rehoming - Mel
Rehabilitation - Ann
Veterinary - Shaun
Questions and Answers
Have you ever wondered, "why does my dog or cat do that?" Our panel of experts answer some of the most common questions about cats and dogs.
Shaun says...
"Remember, if you are really worried about your pet, take him to the vet. There can be medical reasons behind some behaviour issues, so it's best to get the vet to check."
Baby Come Back!
I am having problems when outside, my dog just will not come back to me, What can I do?
It is very important to have as much control as possible over your dog, especially when outside. You always need to have your eyes and ears open as you never know what you are going to come across. By keeping your dog under control you will ensure he doesn't come up against things that could be a threat to him, or be a problem to other people or animals.
There are many reasons why dogs will not come back to their owners when called. Some owners will tell their dogs off when they eventually come back, therefore a dog will not want to come back for fear of being punished. Other dogs just have great fun chasing squirrels and playing with other dogs so they do not want the fun to end.
Begin in a controlled environment where there are no distractions, always use the same recall command such as 'here' or 'come' and never sound angry. Try calling your dogs name to get him to come to you. When he does come to you give him a treat or play a game. If he does not come to you then he doesn't get the reward.
When your dog has learnt to come to you when you call his name you can then add the recall command. Again, if he does not come then do not reward him. Once your dog has learnt to respond to the recall command try introducing a few distractions. Take him outside on a long lead and see if he will still come to you.
When you are confident that your dog has learnt recall, go to the park and let your dog off in a controlled environment. You could possibly go out with another dog owner who has a good recall. Recall both dogs and reward the one who comes back first. Remember keep training fun!
Bedding in
I have just got my first cat. What is the best way to settle her into my home?
Once you have got your new cat home she will need to settle in and adjust to her new environment in her own time. She will need to establish herself and get used to all the new sounds and smells.
Allow your cat to build her confidence up in one room at first, rather than letting her roam and hide around your whole house or flat. Put her food and water in the room and place a litter box nearby. Quietly enter the room on regular intervals, sit across the room and wait and be patient. If your cat wants affection she will come to you. Some cats will crave affection but others want to be left alone, so do not force your attentions on her.
If you allow your cat to come round in her own time everything will work out fine. Some cats will take days and others will take weeks or months. The length of time that your cat takes to adapt depends on the her temperament and past experiences. If there are no other cats in the home then your cat should establish herself within a week to ten days, but it can take months.
Old faithful
I have just taken on an older dog, is there any advice that you can give me?
You should firstly take into account that a lot of older dogs would have been with one owner until being re-homed. They will have to adjust to a new home with new people and this will take time. Pacing and panting are often signs of an unsettled older dog. This should pass in time. Let your older dog settle in gradually and do not expect too much to soon.
Knowing how much exercise to give an older does vary depending on how active they are for their age. Therefore it is best that you take your dog on several shorter walks in a day rather than one or two long ones to avoid risk of injury. Lack of exercise in older dogs can lead to obesity.
When taking on an elderly dog you should be aware that with old age comes intolerance! Therefore consider whether or not the older dog can tolerate a younger playmate! With regards to cats you should not be fooled by the dear old dog that plods along as they may still have the capability to chase and harass any cat, so be aware.
A standard diet is unlikely to suit every older dog. Many of the conditions of old age can be treated, or at least be controlled by correct diet. When you have taken on an older dog make an appointment with their vet and discuss the best diet for your dog.
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