When it comes to getting a dog, many people choose to save a life and adopt from a rescue centre. Others prefer to obtain a puppy direct from a breeder, due to worries about the health or behaviour of a rescue dog. Having adopted a rescue dog ourselves, we can assure you that it was one of the best decisions we have ever made.
As well as having a vast array of ages and breeds to choose from, those who adopt a dog from a rescue centre receive the added benefit of knowing their new companion has been fully examined and vaccinated by a vet, neutered, given parasitic control and behaviourally assessed. There may even be a short history offered about the dog’s previous background. Dogs often end up in rescue centres because of behavioural issues stemming from a lack of training in their previous home. However, many may already be obedient and housetrained and have been given up purely because their owners no longer wanted them. Whatever the reason for the dog being in there, don't let it stop you, you can teach an old dog new tricks! With patience and positive, reward-based training, any problems will soon improve. Remember, professional help is also always available should you require additional support. It is important to prepare properly for the arrival of your new rescue dog into your home. All the members of the household must be prepared to follow the same consistent routines and requests for the dog, and give him time to adapt to his new surroundings during this stressful time. It is a good idea to begin praising him for any appropriate behaviour, utilise Adaptil™ products, and to create a safe haven; a comfy place of his own that is associated with purely positive experiences and where he isn’t bothered by anyone. Finally, provision of food-dispensing toys and other chews will occupy and enrich your dog, whilst offering valuable mental stimulation.© At some stage in their life, it is inevitable that all dogs will encounter situations that they find challenging and stressful. Some of the most common of these situations include exposure to new environments, fireworks, or simply being separated from their owner. If left unaddressed, your dog’s welfare may begin to suffer, and the likelihood of anxiety-related behavioural difficulties occurring will be increased.
If you feel that your dog is not coping well with certain situations, the first step on the road to recovery is to speak to your vet who can offer valuable advice, and if required, refer you to a suitably qualified behaviourist. We are very fortunate, as a lot of local vets choose to refer their clients directly to us for help with their dogs’ behaviour problems. When seeking a successful long-term resolution to any anxiety-related problem, it is important to realise that behavioural modification techniques form the foundation of the overall treatment programme. However, these techniques can also be complemented through the provision of certain products that your vet can advise you on. One popular product that is often used to assist dogs in coping during stressful periods is ‘Adaptil™’. This non-sedative pheromone has been scientifically proven to help alleviate anxiety and works by replicating the canine appeasing pheromone that a lactating bitch naturally releases to comfort and reassure her puppies. In dogs of any age, Adaptil™ allows situations to be perceived more positively and supports dogs to be more responsive to behavioural therapy and training. Crucially, it must never be considered as an alternative to meeting required dog welfare standards. Adaptil™ is available in several forms, including a collar, spray, and plug in diffuser. We are often asked for advice from dog owners on the best books to read about dogs. In this day and age, with such a vast array of easily accessible information regarding our canine friends, we understand how difficult it is for dog owners to feel truly confident in what they read.
Fortunately, there are many excellent books on dog behaviour and training that we are happy to recommend. With Christmas just around the corner, the following gift ideas may come in useful for those loved ones who wish to learn more about their canine companion. A past UK bestseller, ‘In Defence of Dogs: Why dogs need our understanding’ by John Bradshaw is a great place to start. This book is based on scientific fact and examines carefully what is currently considered to be true about dogs, including where they originated and why they behave as they do. The text also explains to the reader why dogs cannot be considered as domesticated wolves, and thus lends itself to a much more relaxed and healthy human-canine relationship. A similarly great read is, ‘Dominance in Dogs. Fact or Fiction?’ by Barry Eaton. This short book helps to dispel the dominance myth that is unfortunately still so prevalent amongst some. Having trained dogs for nearly two decades, including guide dogs for the blind, we are very aware of the impact that human behaviour can have on the dogs we choose to spend our lives with. In order for both parties to get the most from our close relationship, clear communication is vital, and two of the best books on this topic are, ‘The other end of the Leash’ by Patricia McConnell and ‘The Culture Clash’ by Jean Donaldson. Finally, for those who want to learn specifically about the nuts and bolts of dog training, ‘Don’t shoot the dog: The new art of teaching and training’ by Karen Pryor provides a fantastic starting point. This book highlight the principles and power of positive reinforcement in an easy to read, light-hearted manner.© As the firework period draws closer, here is some helpful advice to get you and your dog through one of the most difficult times of the year.
A past survey highlighted that as many as 50% of all dogs will experience stress as a result of the sudden loud bangs and unusual hissing sounds emitted by fireworks. All owners are advised to prepare for the firework period in order to avoid unnecessary suffering and prevent the development of undesirable behaviours in their dogs. Here are some useful tips:
It is important to consider all pets during this time, and further advice can be found by visiting the RSPCA website. |