United Kingdom

The Staffy Problem

I'm not sure that the British can be called the nation of animal lovers anymore. For anyone that lives in an inner city area they will be aware of the increasing number of staffy type dogs being owned by young men. This in itself is not a problem. The problem comes when you witness that these dogs are not pets, they are status symbols. They are therefore expected to behave in an aggressive manner towards other people or other dogs. They are usually non neutered and therefore subject to being used for breeding. Their unfortunate offspring are then sold from the back of a pub to live an equally unpleasant existence as a weapon.

Of course we need the government to act and thankfully animal charities are working hard to try and get enforcement of compulsary neutering for pit bulls and better control of any dog used for security rather than a pet. Sadly the sickening act of organised dog fighting is also happening throughout the country not just in Northern Ireland as the Panorama programme highlighted last year.

What can we do? Take the opportunity to try and educate anyone owning a dog of the importance of neutering and micro chipping. Make people aware that dog theft is on the increase and your dog is less likely to be stolen if they are neutered and micro chipped.

Do not be afraid to muzzle your dog in public. If you have any doubts at all most dogs will happily wear a muzzle. Mine did for many years whilst we made sure we knew he was trustworthy. I would rather that than risk him biting another dog or a child or having to be destroyed because of any such behaviour.

     
The British are of course known as a nation of animal lovers so we hope that wherever we travel in the UK we are unlikely to see cruelty and neglect, although sadly of course it does happen. However, maybe this site gives us the opportunity to raise awareness of cruelty by kindness.

Weight Problems
It is well documented that as people become bigger so too are our animals falling victim to being over fed. As with people this has a negative impact on welfare.
As in humans dramatic weight gain in our pets brings a range of health problems, from breathing difficulties to diabetes.
One of the biggest ailments that our canine friends suffer from is the painful and debilitating disease osteoarthritis. It is well documented that one of the most effective ways of controlling pain and discomfort in arthritis is by ensuring dogs are not overweight.
Weight can also lead to problems such as heart disease and just generally compromises the quality of life of our pets.

Speak to your Veterinary Surgeon about good quality diets that are available for your pets. Also ensure that dogs are exercised regularly and consistently. Taking an overweight dog for a long walk at the weekends and not at all during the week is not good.
If you want to give your dog treats try giving raw carrot rather than very fattening treats which are also bad for their teeth.  

Old Age
“Old Age” is another classic “disease” that our pets suffer from. There are many, many limping dogs who struggle to go on their daily walks with their owners and whenever I see one I ask myself the question “Would you allow your elderly relative to suffer like that?”
If your dog is one of these please take them to the vet. We are incredibly lucky in that we have some fantastic, safe pain killers for arthritic dogs that can allow them to have a good quality of life into their senior years alongside a sensible exercise regime and weight control.
Also, remember, you wouldn’t expect your Gran to play frisby!

If you are concerned that your dog may be suffering from osteoarthritis please download our questionnaire, complete and take to your Veterinary Surgeon who can advise you on the best care and pain relief for your pet. ***

Squeaky Toys
We have all seen the terrible news in the media where children have been killed by dogs and it is probably fair to say that it is wise never to trust an animal alone in a room with small children. However, after talking to a veterinary nurse with an interest in behaviour she raised a very valid point. Why are we giving our dogs squeaky toys to play with? In the mind of a dog it is reasonable to suggest that the game with the squeaky toy which involves pulling, throwing and tearing bears much similarity to the small creature in the pram that makes a squeaking noise. Common sense isn’t it but how many of us have given our dogs squeaky toys and then maybe not been happy when they have caught a rabbit?

Breeding
If you have decided that you want a pet and have no intentions on showing it or any reason to have a pedigree then please go to a rescue home before a breeder. There are thousands of unwanted animals in this country. Please always consider a rescue animal before going to an animal that has been bred for financial gain. Rescue pets are so rewarding and so incredibly grateful.
Batersea dogs home www.dogshome.org
The Blue Cross www.bluecross.org.uk
National canine Defence League

Greyhounds
There are thousands of ex racing greyhounds who desperately want homes and contrary to common myth they don’t need much exercise. They tend to be rather lazy dogs who really just want a warm bed and lots of love. Perfect for someone who wants a companion but maybe hasn’t got the time for long walks. They normally only race for 2 to 3 years, so most of their life can be given to being your friend.
The Walthamstow Owners and welfare association have built their won rehoming kennels in Waltham Abbey, Essex. The Association was started in 2001 by owners who love the sport and also care for their dogs. Their finances are all received from voluntary donations.
If you are looking for a dog and you think a greyhound could be your ideal friend please have a look at their website.
www.wsretiredgreyhounds.co.uk

Neutering
The idea that a bitch should have a litter of puppies before she is neutered is a myth. Also, that having your male dog neutered will “spoil his personality”
Once you have decided on your pet please be responsible and ensure that it is neutered in order that you don’t add to the huge population of unwanted pets. If you take an animal from a rescue home it will already be neutered. There is nothing unkind about neutering. Our Veterinary Surgeons do a fantastic job and pets usually bounce home on the same day without a care in the world. Neutering can also have many health benefits in later years in preventing animals having complications. Remember that if you have a pet you must ensure that you have the finances to look after its welfare properly. There isn’t an NHS for pets.

Reasons for neutering your pet;

Unneutered dogs are more likely to roam, and get lost with the potential for ending up in a road accident, which could kill or injure the dog

Unneutered dogs can have behaviour problems, such as aggression, house soiling and not obeying commands

Dogs that can obviously breed are more likely to be stolen

Unneutered male dogs are the ones most likely to bite a human

Neutering your dog will prevent cancer of the testicles and many prostate problems

Unneutered dogs are more likely to attack or be attacked by other dogs

A female dog that roams can end up getting pregnant, leading to unwanted litters that may never find homes

Can prevent unsociable behaviour such as mounting cushions and visitors legs.