Your Dog October 2022

This month the clocks go back and as the days get shorter it can become more of a challenge fitting in your dog walks and ensuring they are interesting and enriching for your pet. Of course, that’s not the only reason why walking the dog can be difficult — you or your pet may have health issues, your dog may have had a frightening experience on a walk and need a break, or he may benefit from a day off to recharge his batteries. In our lead feature this month (page 10) Julie Hill explains that you don’t need to beat yourself up about it if you decide to take the odd day off — the key is to come up with alternatives that will engage your dog’s brain and…

GENERATION PUP MARKS NEW MILESTONE The UK’s largest canine welfare charity has added the 6,000th puppy to a ground-breaking scientific study designed to improve dog welfare for future generations. Golden Retriever puppy Maddie is the latest recruit to Generation Pup, Dogs Trust’s first-of-its-kind research project that follows dogs through the key stages of their lives. Nine-week-old Maddie lives in Hampshire with her owner, Jan Kiley, and her new ‘fur-siblings’, nine-year-old Labrador X Golden Retriever Georgie, six-year-old Dalmatian Alfie, and Cally the cat. Jan, who found out about the innovative study through Dogs Trust’s social media, explained: “Maddie has settled in really well — it feels as though she has been here forever! Working for Dogs for Autism, I wanted a pup with a good temperament who can be an ‘ambassadog’…

SERVICE LAUNCHED TO HELP CRACK DOWN ON PUPPY FARMERS Trading Standards Wales has joined forces with Crimestoppers to enable the public to anonymously report illegal puppy breeding. It’s hoped people will provide information that can be used to identify and tackle puppy farmers in Wales and prevent animals suffering purely for profit. Carmarthenshire has emerged as having the highest number of enquiries from members of the public concerned about illegal puppy farms. Figures rose from 149 enquiries in 2020 to 221 last year. ● Concerns can be reported by calling Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or visiting www.crimestoppers-uk.org OWNING A DOG MAY HELP COMBAT DEBILITATING DISEASE Dogs might help protect children from developing Crohn’s disease later in life, according to a study by the University of Toronto in association with…

“We tend to have it in our minds that dogs need at least two walks a day and for some dogs this is great, but for others it can be too much.” Sometimes, a walk is difficult due to the weather, your own health, or that of your dog, and many dogs might benefit emotionally and physically from a day off. But taking a day off from walking doesn’t mean putting your feet up, instead you should give your dog some mental stimulation. Brain work is more tiring for a dog than physical exercise alone, and studies have shown that mental stimulation can help slow the aging process. Here, five experts offer some exciting suggestions for entertaining and engaging with your dog on a non-walking day. DID YOU KNOW? Spending…

Dog owners with pets who are very worried by fireworks may be keen to find a ‘get away from it all’ type holiday where they can escape scary loud noises and flashing lights. This month we feature a selection of dog-friendly accommodation to help kickstart your search for a future firework-free holiday for you and your dog. Carmarthenshire, South Wales BRECHFA FOREST BARNS If you like the idea of staying in one of three dog-friendly mountain top retreats in the heart of rural Carmarthenshire, South Wales, then the award-winning Brechfa Forest Barns with their secure, private gardens could be perfect for you. The beautiful accommodation boasts breathtaking views over three counties, and you can walk directly from your door to explore trails through a magical forest, or visit one of…

Most people believe the best way to introduce themselves to an unknown dog is to offer their out-stretched hand for the dog to sniff, but for a nervous dog this can be overwhelming and frightening, sometimes even confrontational. Through my work I meet numerous shy dogs who appreciate being given space and time to get to know me. Over the years I have developed ways to build trust quickly and effectively, which leaves the choice to connect firmly in the dog’s court. I use a combination of my body position, the dog’s own language, and patience. The dog makes first contact. THE DOG’S POINT OF VIEW Dogs aren’t humans; most of us invite touch, hugging friends and family, and although dogs can enjoy physical petting, it’s not to the same…