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  • Fat Dogs Are Not Funny, Says Celebrity Vet

    Fat Dogs Are Not Funny, Says Celebrity Vet

    Videos celebrating overweight dogs have been viewed over 90MILLION times on TikTok, research by VetChef reveals.

    The study by the fresh pet food platform, highlights how widespread the worrying content is across all major social media platforms.

    On Facebook, Instagram and Reddit alone, VetChef has discovered there are ONE MILLION members or followers of groups devoted to overweight dogs.

    Fat breeds getting the wrong sort of attention

    Breeds which feature most in these groups are some of the UK’s most popular including pitbulls, frenchies, pugs, terriers and beagles.
    On TikTok, videos are shared using hashtags including: #chonkydogs, #fatdog, and #chubbypuppy.

    The term “chonky” has come to be used by many social media users to show their approval of overweight dogs. It first came into use in 2016 in a Twitter group called ‘Chonky Animals’.

    VetChef founder and pet nutrition expert Dr Joe Inglis comments:

    “While it is always a delight to see the joy pets bring, it is worrying that the trend of normalising and glorifying pets that are actually clinically overweight is on the rise.

    “The scale of content celebrating overweight dogs on social media is simply breathtaking – with clips hailing so-called ‘chonky’ canines viewed over 90million times on TikTok.

    “The unfortunate reality is that overweight pets are likely to have a lower quality of life, as they are more likely to develop serious health conditions such as diabetes, osteoarthritis and cancer.

    “The breeds that seem to be most commonly featured across social media also already have a number of hereditary health problems, which are likely to only be exacerbated by being overweight.

    Joe adds: “In the UK, obesity is one of the leading, ongoing health issues we face with our pets, with 50% of pets now being classed as overweight.

    “We can all be guilty of ‘fat blindness’ when it comes to our pets, especially over the past year when a lot of us have spent more time at home with our canine companions.

    “But our pets rely solely on us as their owners to keep them as fit, healthy and happy as possible, so it is our responsibility to ensure they are getting the right amount of daily exercise, fed a fresh diet that caters to their individual needs and to recognise when they are actually at an unhealthy weight.

    “At VetChef we are committed to helping pet parents do the very best for their animals by helping to feed them a diet of all-fresh, natural produce through a bespoke recipe plan.

    “These meals are all tailored to each individual animal’s needs, and are even designed to help with weight management, as they include the right amount of calories the pet needs based on their weight and body condition, which can then help them lose weight if necessary. The taste and texture of homemade recipes are also better than processed foods, so will help make a diet regime much more enjoyable for the dog.

    “As part of our mission for healthier, natural diets for our pets, we’re now calling on all pet owners to avoid celebrating their overweight animals – and instead celebrate them looking fit and healthy.”

    On Facebook one of the most popular groups celebrating overweight dogs is named The Galactic Empire Of Chonky Woofers. Only a year old it already has over 16,000 members.

    On Instagram there are over 40,000 posts with the hashtag #chonkyboi.

    #fatdog is the most popular TikTok hashtag with 72million views, followed by #chubbydog (10m) with #fatdogs (4.4m) in third.
    VetChef is the brainchild of veterinary surgeon Joe Inglis who is a familiar face on the nation’s TV screens thanks to his appearances on The One Show and This Morning.

    The free VetChef recipe app plans your dog’s recipes, and Buddy, the new VetChef pet food maker does all the hard work. The site also offers a variety of supplements, including an obesity supplement, K905, which contains L-carnitine that helps promote the conversion of fat into muscle.

    The platform can also help with tackling pet obesity, as it allows owners to feed exactly the right level of calories their dog needs to achieve their ideal weight, as well as helping manage many chronic health conditions such as skin and digestive problems.

    The Biggest Fat Pet TikTok Hashtags

    Rank

    		 Hashtag Views
    1. #fatdog 71.7million
    2. #chubbydog 10million
    3. #fatdogs 4.4million
    4. #fatpuppy 1.9million
    5. #chubbypuppy 1.4million
    6. #fatdoggo 693,000
    7. #chunkydog 295,000
    8. #chonkydogs 109,000
    9. #chunkydogs 90,000
    10. #fatpupper 67,000

  • Dog Owners Warned As Millions Of Pets Suffer Poisoning Harm

    Dog owners need to be aware of a silent killer, often found in their own home, as 7.1 million cats and dogs have fallen ill after digesting something toxic, with one in nine pets poisoned last year. Over a quarter of dog owners (4.6 million people) and a fifth of cat owners (2.5 million) believe their pet has fallen ill after consuming something poisonous according to the study by Direct Line Pet Insurance.

    Dog poisoning research: key findings

    • On average vets treat 323 dogs and 56 cats for poisoning every day across the UK
    • One in six (17 per cent) poisoned dog and cat owners believe their pet was poisoned deliberately
    • Claims data reveals Labradors, Cocker Spaniels and Poodle crossbreeds to be the three dog breeds most commonly poisoned over the last two years
    • 4.6 million dog owners and 2.5 million cat owners believe their pet fell ill after consuming something poisonous, with one in nine pets being poisoned last year
    • On average vets treat 323 dogs and 56 cats for poisoning every day across the UK
    • One in six (17 per cent) poisoned dog and cat owners believe their pet was poisoned deliberately
    • Claims data reveals Labradors, Cocker Spaniels and Poodle crossbreeds to be the three dog breeds most commonly poisoned over the last two years

    Dogs getting seriously ill by poisoning

    The study revealed that three in four dogs (69 per cent or 3.2 million) that were poisoned became so unwell that they had to be taken to the vet and 342,000 (seven per cent) died as a result. More than three quarters (71 per cent or 1.8 million) of poisoned cats also had to be taken to the vet and 237,000 (nine per cent) subsequently died.

    Vets estimate that nearly 120,000 dogs were treated for food or substance poisoning last year, equating to 323 dogs every day. Over 20,400 cats were treated in 2020 for poisoning – that’s 52 cats poisoned per day. Sadly, vets claim that these high levels of poisoning have remained consistent for the past three years with no indication of cases declining.

    Deliberate poisoning of dogs and cats

    Worryingly, half of dog and cat owners (49 per cent) whose pets were poisoned suspect it was done deliberately, with one in six (17 per cent) being certain that the poisoning was with intent. Family members are the main suspected culprits (17 per cent), closely followed by strangers (16 per cent) and neighbours (15 per cent).

    Where dogs are being poisoned

    The most common place that pet owners suspect their pet was poisoned is while on a walk with either them or a friend or family member (26 per cent).

    This is followed by the garden (16 per cent) and while outside with a paid walker (15 per cent). Pets consuming something poisonous at home while supervised (eight per cent) and at home alone (seven per cent) complete the top five most common locations.

    The vast majority (91 per cent) of pet insurance claims for poisonings are made for dogs. The dog breeds that have been most affected by poisoning over the past two years are Labradors (13 per cent), Cocker Spaniels (six per cent) and Poodle crossbreeds (three per cent). Golden Retrievers (three per cent) and Spaniel crossbreeds (three per cent) complete the top five.

    Chocolate, grapes and onions: a common danger

    Chocolate is listed as a main cause of dog poisoning by 91 per cent of vets. A further 54 per cent say grapes are a leading issue, while 51 per cent say medication can be a major source of poisoning.

    One in seven (14 per cent) identified onions and 10 per cent said household items. In contrast, the main causes for cat poisoning are from outside the home.

    More than half (54 per cent) of vets claim wildlife is one of the main causes of cat poisoning, with 40 per cent specifying lilies and 33 per cent saying plants and foliage were large contributors. Rat poison (29 per cent) and mouldy foods (17 per cent) were also listed as being very dangerous.

    Most common causes of pet poisoning identified by vets

    Dogs Cats
    Chocolate 91 per cent Wildlife 54 per cent
    Grapes 54 per cent Lilies 40 per cent
    Medication 51 per cent Plants/foliage 33 per cent
    Onions 14 per cent Rat poison 29 per cent
    Household items 10 per cent Mouldy food 17 per cent
    Plants 4 per cent Rotten foods 16 per cent
    Mouldy foods 3 per cent Cheese 13 per cent

    (Data source: Direct Line Pet Insurance 2021)

    January is the worst month for poisoning claims for both cats and dogs, with a fifth (19 per cent) of all poisoning-related claims in 2020 taking place in January – amounting to nearly 2,000 claims, or 62 every single day.

    Madeline Pike, Veterinary Nurse for Direct Line Pet Insurance, said:

    “Pets are part of the family and seeing your dog or cat unwell is a pet owner’s worst nightmare, especially if you suspect it is due to someone else being careless, whether accidentally or deliberately.

    Beware of foods that are poisonous to dogs

    “There are many foods and substances that are harmful to animals and it is important for owners to educate themselves and those around them about these. To minimise the risk of your pet eating something that could make them ill, there are some precautions you can take at home. Make sure to keep food locked away, secure your bins and remind guests not to leave food out.

    “If any pet owners are concerned that their cat or dog may have consumed something poisonous, vets have identified the most common symptoms to look out for including; tremors, excessive panting, high heart rate and sickness/diarrhoea.

    “Direct Line pet insurance customers receive 24/7 access to a vet via PawSquad with live chat or video calling. You can use the service for free, from the comfort of your own home and get any questions directly answered by a vet.”

  • New Research Reveals Some Bizarre British Dog Owner Habits

    New Research Reveals Some Bizarre British Dog Owner Habits

    Do nearly 1m British dog owners take a shower with their dogs? Did you know that 27% of dog owners admit to letting their pet lick their plate after they’re finished with it? Or that 33% of owners leave the TV or radio on for their dog when they are left alone?

    The findings come from a study carried out by Mira Showers and reveal that British dog owners have some ‘interesting’ habits!

    Top level findings include:

    • Over 1.6 million dog owners kiss their pet on the lips
    • 2.4 million people would take a day off work to look after their poorly dog
    • Almost 5 million dog owners kiss their pet good night
    • A third of those with a furry family member regularly give them a massage (33%)

    From letting them lick their face to even bathing their dog at the same time as they have a bath, the research reveals more habits of dog owners across the nation (including some eyebrow-raising special privileges):

    British dog owner habits

    Habit/Special Treatment % of dog owners who admit to doing this
    Regularly giving them treats 61%
    Letting them on the sofa 57%
    Speaking to them in funny, unusual or high-pitched voices 46%
    Letting them on their bed 44%
    Feeding them human food 42%
    Getting up earlier than they would if they didn’t have a dog to feed them and walk them 38%
    Kissing them goodbye or goodnight 36%
    Letting them lick their hands 35%
    Leaving music, radio or the TV on for them when they’re alone 33%
    Massaging them 33%
    Confiding in them or telling them personal things 29%
    Leaving the heating on for them if it’s cold 28%
    Letting them lick their face 27%
    Letting them lick their plate or cup after they’ve finished with it 27%
    Letting them in their bed 25%
    Taking time off work to look after their dog if they’re poorly 18%
    Kissing them on the lips 12%
    Letting their dog eat at the dinner table with them 6%
    Showering their dog at the same time as they have a shower 6%
    Bathing their dog at the same time as they have a bath 4%

    Women love to spoil their dogs

    It’s the women among dog owners who spoil their dogs the most with all the above, though more men than women said they’d let their dogs eat dinner at the table with them.

    When it comes to the most spoilt breeds, the likes of Cockapoos (and other Poodle crosses), Lurchers and mixed breeds take the lead, over-indexing on 15 of the above special privileges. Close behind are dogs in the Hound Group, meaning breeds such as Beagles, Dachshunds, Greyhounds, Whippets and Rhodesian Ridgebacks are allowed to eat dinner at the table with their owners, plus get showered or bathed at the same time as their owners more than any other breed group.

    Button - A Sheepadoodle

    Which cities love to treat their dogs the most?

    Owners in Belfast and Nottingham come out on top with treating their dog to these things; both cities pamper their pet with at least five of these special privileges more than any other UK city.

    Dog owners in Leeds let their dog on their bed more than anywhere else (53%), while owners in Plymouth dramatically over-index on showering with their dog at the same time (15%).

    Matt Herbert-Sandell, Digital Communications Manager at Mira Showers, said:

    “Nationwide, our survey found that an estimated 822,000 dog owners shower with their dog; talk about multitasking! A dual shower is a perfect solution for dog owners who need some extra flexibility and multitasking power to help them groom their dogs at home.

    The fixed rainfall shower head gives the owners a fantastic showering experience for themselves, while the handheld shower head is ideal for manoeuvring around a mucky pup!

    Our survey also found that 2 in 5 owners wish they knew more hacks to make showering their dogs at home much easier, so we enlisted experts to help.”

    The best way to groom dogs at home

    Animal charity, Wood Green, and professional grooming experts at Purplebone, offer these at-home grooming tips:

      • The water temperature should be lukewarm. Being able to comfortably run the water over your forearm is a sign the temperature is exactly right.
      • Avoid getting water down the ear canal, as this can lead to infections. Be mindful of their eyes too, as shampoo can sting, just like it does with humans.
      • Always use a shampoo made specifically for dogs and never human shampoo because natural ph. levels are different and can cause skin problems as a result if the wrong product is used. The team at Purplebone said: “A handheld shower is what we always use in our professional grooming parlours, because you can soak all areas of the dog to apply the shampoo first, then use it to thoroughly remove any excess residue of shampoo and conditioner.”
      • There will always be some dogs that love water, and some that just tolerate it. If you can make it as pleasant as you can through praise and treats, it will be a much more relaxed experience. Ness Croft-Taylor, Veterinary Surgery Manager and qualified dog groomer at Wood Green, said: “It’s beneficial to have a handheld shower to regulate the flow, so if your dog is timid you can introduce the water gradually.”

    Mira Showers monitored six Instagram image hashtags relevant to dogs being groomed at home (including #puppybath, #dogbath, #muckypup, #puppybathtime, #dogbathtime and #doginshower) and assigned them to a panel of dog lovers to identify Instagram’s cutest bath-time dogs, some of which are shown above. Permission to publish these photos beyond embedding them has been granted by the Instagram account holders.

      1. Harvey, Shetland Sheepdog, https://www.instagram.com/p/CIMNp7tHN-k/ (Dorset, UK)
      2. Chai, Toy Poodle, https://www.instagram.com/p/CIJtTFZJtxo/  (London, UK)
      3. Mabel, Cavapoo, https://www.instagram.com/p/CHcTvXJpCwz/ (Essex, UK)
      4. Pacho, Italian Greyhound, https://www.instagram.com/p/CH4-d1gBeVQ/ (Manchester, UK)
      5. Winnie, Miniature Goldendoodle, https://www.instagram.com/p/CHqStDtJgFz/ (North Carolina, USA)
      6. Picasso, Dachshund, https://www.instagram.com/p/CIKs6n8HItL/ (Bangkok, Thailand)
      7. Button, Sheepadoodle, https://www.instagram.com/p/B6-2_2mhN5a/ (Michigan, USA)
      8. Maggie, Cocker Spaniel, https://www.instagram.com/p/CCqWDFRFS0p/?igshid=10xt8ndh48mgu (Northampton, UK)
      9. Coconut, King Charles Cavalier Spaniel, https://www.instagram.com/p/CIIYdvqAFbQ/ (Singapore)
      10. Penny, Miniature Goldendoodle, https://www.instagram.com/p/CHVvR8JpiLN/
      11. Mortimer, Scottish Deerhound, https://www.instagram.com/p/CIJnE-nhHxD/ (Milwaukee, Wisconsin)
      12. Tormi, Jack Russell, https://www.instagram.com/p/CHksfK0DYUM/ (Estonia)

    Related: The top dog ownership trends you need to know about this year

  • Predicting The Next US President by Dog T-Shirts

    Every election, millions are spent polling Americans to predict the future president but there’s one sure way that’s far less expensive and perhaps more accurate.

    Just look at who man’s best friend is supporting during election time.

    “We’ve been manufacturing popular dog election T-shirts and other gear since 2008 and we’ve been able to accurately predict the next President every time,” said Mirage Pet Products owner Stephanie Davis.

    Owners can get their pooches ready for the political season with doggy ties, toys, T-shirts, bandanas, harnesses, collars, and even dresses supporting either Biden, Trump, the Democrats, or the Republican party. All political dog products are made in the U.S.

    Mirage Pet Products manufactures about 100,000 original products such as dog and cat collars, pet apparel, leashes, toys and all sorts of fun stuff for pets. They sell to stores on every continent except Antarctica.

    The family-owned American business has been operating for six generations.

    “My great-great-grandparents all the way to my kids have worked here. My grandparents started working here as teenagers when it was a belt manufacturing facility. One day a customer came in and asked if they could put crystals in a dog collar like they did for belts,” said Davis.

    When the original owner retired, her grandparents bought the company. Ever since, the company has been growing and she attributes the success to her loyal employees and customers.

    “We treat our staff well. That’s a lesson that I learned from my grandparents. It makes a huge difference in the success or failure of a business. We are as flexible as we can be. We pay them as much as we can. For both our employees and customers, we listen and value their feedback in how the company runs. Most of our best ideas have come from our customers and staff.

    “We enjoy what we do. Most of our revenue comes from small independent businesses. Our core base is the mom and pop shops – we love working with them. It’s rewarding to work with a family to put food on the table and make dreams happen,” said Davis.

    Her business has been affected just like any other business during the pandemic except with a double whammy. They were also recovering from a devastating fire last year when the pandemic hit. So, they really understand the hardships that their partners are going through.

    “We’ve got several different projects in the works to try and help pet stores that are re-opening. A lot of times customers will call saying here’s our situation and we’ll do our best to help them,” said Davis.

    Davies believes her company has a leg up on the competition because they’re small and able to change quickly to customer needs. Being the manufacturer as opposed to a middle-man, allows them to change quickly if someone needs something different or if things need to be improved.

    During these COVID times, a lot of animal charities, pet rescue and animal shelter organizations have lost important funding opportunities. Dinners and live events that were so crucial are not happening because of pandemic gathering restrictions.

  • How Crucial Was Your Dog to Your Happiness During Lockdown?

    According to a new study, 8 in 10 dog owners said their pet was extremely important to their mental wellbeing during the UK’s lockdown and believe their dogs were largely happy, some did admit that their dog wasn’t his usual self as a result of being indoors for longer periods of time with the whole family.

    The findings have been shared by natural pet treat brand Pet Munchies, which also learnt half of dog owners made sure their dog had extra play sessions, 4 in 10 dog owners took more walks and almost a third chose to keep their dogs stimulated and occupied at home by teaching them new tricks!


    Natasha and Toto / Photo Credit: Natasha Wise

    Natasha Wise is a three-time world agility champion. She explains the benefit to a dog’s mental wellbeing from having stimulation, such as learning a new skill to get the mind whirring, during unusual times like these.

    “Stimulation focuses a dog’s brain on the desired game and reduces stress, anxiety, and associated unwanted behaviours. As a result, through mental stimulation, dogs become happier resulting in calmness and settling around the home after a period of stimulation.

    “The best training tip I can give is to find out what makes your dog tick and include that in your teaching as a reward you know your dog will love. My dogs have a particular favourite brand, Pet Munchies, they’re very versatile and my dogs love them so I always have them to hand.”

    So, This Is How Dogs Spent Lockdown Is It? 2
    Natasha’s dog Toto in training / Photo Credit: Natasha Wise

    The most popular tricks taught by dog owners include playing hide and seek, sit/stay, roll over and giving a paw on command. Some ambitious owners admitted that they taught their dog to tidy their toys up behind themselves, to fetch the TV remote and even to read!

    And to reward their pets for learning fun, and sometimes practical, new skills, dog owners treated their dogs to their favourite food and treats, lavished hugs, kisses and affection on their clever dogs and a few lucky dogs were even gifted new toys.

    Dog trainer Cat Donald had to temporarily close her business during the lockdown. She told K9 Magazine that she decided to teach her two-year-old Labrador Retriever, Skye, a new trick that she could use every day – to fetch her lead.

    “Without Skye, lockdown would have been much harder to get through, she’s made it a bearable experience and the bond with my dog has definitely grown for the better,” says Cat.


    Cat Donald and Skye / Photo Credit: Cat Donald

    Ryan O’Meara shared this piece of advice to help dog owners help their dogs to beat post-lockdown blues:

    “For dogs that have gotten used to the specific routine of having their owners around, it may be jarring for them when it suddenly and abruptly ends.

    “Dogs love being with their family, so less time spent with their owners can make them sad. Re-establishing routine is the key component for making sure our dogs don’t suffer the post-lockdown blues.”

  • So, This Is How Dogs Spent Lockdown Is It?

    So, This Is How Dogs Spent Lockdown Is It?

    A new study by Pet Munchies has revealed how the UK’s dogs spent lockdown – and it’s very sweet, except more dogs than ever will now be hiding from their owners – and some dogs will now even be tidying up behind themselves! Is your dog one of them?

    According to the natural pet treat brand, 8 in 10 pet owners said that their dogs were very important for their mental wellbeing during the lockdown and admitted that without their pets for company, it would have been a very different experience.

    However, while 77 per cent of dog owners believe that their dogs were very happy during the lockdown, not all were so sure and 8 per cent admitted that their dogs were not their usual selves, putting this down to having to spend longer periods of time indoors and more time with the whole family at home2, something that under usual circumstances, would be limited for dogs to experience due to members of the family leaving home to go to school or work.

    Former professional dog trainer Ryan O’Meara explained why this might impact on a dog’s happiness:

    “Dogs are happiest and most content when they are in a routine. When dogs are used to days following specific patterns – wake up, breakfast, walk, kids leave to go to school, and so on, it can be something to overcome when patterns of behaviour change because it’s a shift to what they knew to be their family’s routine.”


    Ryan training his two dogs, Chloe and Mia / Photo Credit: Ryan O’Meara

    How dog owners attempted to make lockdown fun for their pets

    In a bid to repay dogs for their crucial role to their happiness, half of pet parents admitted that they spent more time playing with their dogs at home, while 4 in 10 took in more walks and almost a third (29 per cent) decided to keep their dog’s brains stimulated by teaching their dog new skills with a third (31 per cent) declaring they’ve taught their dog one-two new tricks.

    The most popular tricks taught by dog owners include playing hide and seek, sit/stay, roll over and giving a paw on command. Some ambitious owners admitted that they taught their dog to tidy their toys up behind themselves3, to fetch the TV remote and even to read!

    And to reward their pets for learning fun, and sometimes practical, new skills, 72 per cent of dog owners treated their dogs to their favourite food and treats, 66 per cent lavished hugs, kisses and affection on their clever dogs and 11 per cent of owners gifted their dogs new toys.

    UK dog owners taught their dogs these fun games & tricks during lockdown

    • Hide and seek
    • Sit/stay
    • Give paw
    • Roll over
    • Tidying up (putting toys away)
    • Fetch keys/TV remote
    • Learning to read

    Source: Pet Munchies

    Other popular brain puzzles and activities favoured by dogs and their owners included learning how to fetch their lead, fetching specific toys and learning agility, one of the UK’s most popular dog sports.

    Natasha Wise is a three-time world agility champion. She explains the benefit to a dog’s mental wellbeing from having stimulation, such as learning a new skill to get the mind whirring, during unusual times like these.


    Natasha’s dog Toto in training / Photo Credit: Natasha Wise

    “Stimulation focuses a dog’s brain on the desired game and reduces stress, anxiety, and associated unwanted behaviours. As a result, through mental stimulation, dogs become happier resulting in calmness and settling around the home after a period of stimulation.

    “The best training tip I can give is to find out what makes your dog tick and include that in your teaching as a reward you know your dog will love. My dogs have a particular favourite brand, Pet Munchies, they’re very versatile and my dogs love them so I always have them to hand.”

    Ryan O’Meara shared this final piece of advice to help dog owners help their dogs to beat post-lockdown blues:

    “For dogs that have gotten used to the specific routine of having their owners around, it may be jarring for them when it suddenly and abruptly ends.

    “Dogs love being with their family, so less time spent with their owners can make them sad. Re-establishing routine is the key component for making sure our dogs don’t suffer the post-lockdown blues.”

  • Pet Owners Believe Dogs Crucial to Mental Wellbeing During Lockdown

    Pet Owners Believe Dogs Crucial to Mental Wellbeing During Lockdown

    A new study has revealed how the UK’s dogs spent lockdown – and it’s very sweet, except more dogs than ever will now be hiding from their owners – and some dogs will now even be tidying up behind themselves!

    According to new research by natural pet treat brand Pet Munchies, dog owners said that without their pets for company, it would have been a very different experience, with  8 in 10 pet owners said that their dogs were very important for their mental wellbeing during the lockdown.


    Toto in training / Photo Credit: Natasha Wise

    However, while 77 per cent of dog owners believe that their dogs were very happy during the lockdown, not all were so sure and 8 per cent admitted that their dogs were not their usual selves, putting this down to having to spend longer periods of time indoors and more time with the whole family at home2, something that under usual circumstances, would be limited for dogs to experience due to members of the family leaving home to go to school or work.

    Former professional dog trainer Ryan O’Meara explained why this might impact on a dog’s happiness:

    “Dogs are happiest and most content when they are in a routine. When dogs are used to days following specific patterns – wake up, breakfast, walk, kids leave to go to school, and so on, it can be something to overcome when patterns of behaviour change because it’s a shift to what they knew to be their family’s routine.”


    Ryan whistle training his two dogs, Chloe and Mia / Photo Credit: Ryan O’Meara

    How dog owners attempted to make lockdown fun for their pets

    In a bid to repay dogs for their crucial role to their happiness, half of pet parents admitted that they spent more time playing with their dogs at home, while 4 in 10 took in more walks and almost a third (29 per cent) decided to keep their dog’s brains stimulated by teaching their dog new skills with a third (31 per cent) declaring they’ve taught their dog one-two new tricks.

    The most popular tricks taught by dog owners include playing hide and seek, sit/stay, roll over and giving a paw on command. Some ambitious owners admitted that they taught their dog to tidy their toys up behind themselves3, to fetch the TV remote and even to read!

    And to reward their pets for learning fun, and sometimes practical, new skills, 72 per cent of dog owners treated their dogs to their favourite food and treats, 66 per cent lavished hugs, kisses and affection on their clever dogs and 11 per cent of owners gifted their dogs’ new toys.

    Most popular dog tricks/games taught by owners in lockdown

    1. Hide and seek
    2. Sit/stay
    3. Give paw
    4. Roll over
    5. Tidying up (putting toys away)
    6. Fetch keys/TV remote
    7. Learning to read

    Source: Pet Munchies

    Other popular brain puzzles and activities favoured by dogs and their owners included learning how to fetch their lead, fetching specific toys and learning agility, one of the UK’s most popular dog sports.

    Natasha Wise, pictured below, is a three-time world agility champion. She explains the benefit to a dog’s mental wellbeing from having stimulation, such as learning a new skill to get the mind whirring, during unusual times like these.


    Natasha and Toto / Photo Credit: Natasha Wise

    “Stimulation focuses a dog’s brain on the desired game and reduces stress, anxiety, and associated unwanted behaviours. As a result, through mental stimulation, dogs become happier resulting in calmness and settling around the home after a period of stimulation.

    “The best training tip I can give is to find out what makes your dog tick and include that in your teaching as a reward you know your dog will love. My dogs have a particular favourite brand, Pet Munchies, they’re very versatile and my dogs love them so I always have them to hand.”

    Ryan O’Meara shared this final piece of advice to help dog owners help their dogs to beat post-lockdown blues:

    “For dogs that have gotten used to the specific routine of having their owners around, it may be jarring for them when it suddenly and abruptly ends.

    “Dogs love being with their family, so less time spent with their owners can make them sad. Re-establishing routine is the key component for making sure our dogs don’t suffer the post-lockdown blues.”

  • How Long Do You Feed A Dog Puppy Food? (12 Best Experts Say This)

    As often as we’re asked how long do you feed a dog puppy food, it’s quite remarkable how many people are genuinely worried about moving their puppy to adult food either too soon or too late.

    You should feed a puppy on puppy food while they’re younger than 12-months, but the transition process can start earlier.

    Your dog is a puppy for as long as you want them to be. Nobody is going to tell you different. But in the interests of answering this specific question of how long do you feed a dog puppy food the appropriate time to stop feeding puppy specific food is no later than 12-months old.

    how long do you feed a dog puppy food

    Why?

    Because in purely simplistic terms, at 12-months old your puppy is technically an adult.

    Let’s break down the puppy to adult dog process.

    As you can see, puppy growth stages can seem like a flash before our eyes.

    Puppy development – the baby to the teenager to the adult dog

    Puppy (young)

    Adorable. Surprisingly obedient. Love to be around you. Often bolder than you’d expect. Sleeps a lot.

    Puppy (16 weeks)

    Personality developing. More cautious about certain scenarios. A little more mischievous. Willing to explore more. Sleeps a lot.

    Puppy (6 months)

    A little less obedient. High energy. Sleeps far less. More interested in food. More demanding and in pursuit of mental stimulation.

    Puppy (6 months to 12 months)

    Personality shining through like a beacon. Sometimes obedient, sometimes wilfully challenges instructions that you know for certain the pup understands.

    Physically very active, but prone to exhausting themselves quickly in short bursts.

    At 12-months old your dog’s needs are different, particularly their nutritional requirements.

    Summary: How long do you feed a dog puppy food

    With all this info in mind, it’s important to recognise the different energy levels of an young adult dog vs the different calorie needs of a growing puppy.

    Puppy foods are designed specifically to help them grow.

    Adult dog foods are designed to help an adult maintain and thrive.

    If you’d like to learn more about the dog growth stages, from puppy to adult – download this free eBook

    Free Book (useful for all dog owners)

    If you’d like to learn more about dog growth stages, from puppy to adult – download this free eBook

    Remember the pet food you give to your puppy should be based on various factors.

    1. Nowadays there are foods for large breeds, toy breeds and various breed specific foods.
    2. Always feed your puppy with the highest quality food you can afford. You never get the chance to have that vital first 12 months of your dog’s development back again.
    3. Switch from puppy food to adult dog food at or before 12-months old
    4. A puppy’s mother s milk helps them develop for the first weeks of their lives, after that it’s entirely down to us!
    5. High quality dog food isn’t always the most expensive dog food (do research for reviews)
    6. Decide how many times a day you want to feed your dog when they’re an adult and slowly transition to that feeding regime
    7. At 12- months of age your puppy is technically an adult dog
    8. Puppies grow fast. Really fast.
    9. Your puppy may reach maturity (physically) many years earlier than they reach maturity mentally
    10. Feed your dog based on their age, breed type and lifestyle at all times – factoring whether they’re a small, medium or large breed
    11. Keep a close eye on body condition throughout your dog’s life
    12. Develop a strong relationship with your vet. Yes, vet bills can be expensive – but the more often your vet sees your dog, the better they’ll get to know them. If your vet sees your dog for regular checkups, your vet bills will be lower in the long run

    Dog nutrition experts views on when to switch from puppy to adult dog food

    • Both small and medium breed puppies are considered adult at about one year of age, so your dog’s birthday indicates when to switch from puppy food.
    • In terms of a puppy’s diet, puppy food generally contains more protein content than adult dog food in order to sustain this new growth at a faster rate.
    • Why transition from puppy food to adult dog food? When your puppy is growing, he needs more nutrients and calories than an adult dog, which is why puppy foods have higher levels of protein and fat to support growth, as well as nutrients like DHA, an omega fatty acid found in mother’s milk.
    • When should I switch from puppy food to adult dog food? Once puppies have reached 90% of their expected adult weight, they should switch from a growth diet to one that’s suitable for maintenance.
    • If you have a large breed dog, talk to your vet first, as they may recommend keeping them on their puppy food a few months longer to ensure they get the proper calories to grow to their full adult form.
    • Making the transition from puppy to adult food at an appropriate time is important because there is a major shift in regards to the caloric needs and nutrition requirements of your puppy as she approaches maturity.
    • When Should You Make the Switch? There are a number of “rules” out there regarding when to make the switch from puppy food to adult dog food, and recommendations vary depending on your dog’s breed size.
    • Rich puppy food can quickly lead to excessive weight gain for adult dogs, so the transition is important.
    • switching from puppy food to adult food, how long do you feed a dog puppy food Puppies of any size or shape are just about guaranteed to be adorable.
    • switching from puppy food to adult food, how long do you feed a dog puppy food Nutrition / Pet Diet Tips.
    • Since obesity is the most common nutrition-based issue for canines, it’s crucial adult dogs no longer eat puppy food, which can also cause orthopedic problems in older dogs.
    • Spaying or neutering usually occurs at this age as well, lowering your dog’s need for increased energy; hence a reason to switch from puppy to adult dog food.
    • The transition from puppy food to adult food is an important time in your dog’s life.
    • When it’s time to stop feeding puppy food, you want to transition to adult dog food gradually.
    • switching from puppy food to adult food, how long do you feed a dog puppy food Nutrition & Feeding.
    • Puppy food should also be higher in calories than adult food to compensate for the energy puppies expend by growing and playing.
    • switching from puppy food to adult food, how long do you feed a dog puppy food Compare Breeds Compare up to 5 different breeds side by side.
    • Puppy food is very high in calories and nutritional supplements so you want to switch to adult food once your puppy begins to approach maturity.
    • switching from puppy food to adult food, how long do you feed a dog puppy food Unfortunately, there’s no set answer for when to stop feeding puppy food.
    • As a general rule, dogs that are less than one year of age are considered puppies, and it is important during that year that they are being fed puppy formula pet food.
    • Our experts can help you determine when it’s time to make the switch from puppy food to adult dog food.
    • switching from puppy food to adult food, how long do you feed a dog puppy food When to Switch to Adult Dog Food.
    • If your dog starts skipping meals or picking at food he would otherwise devour, it might mean he’s ready to switch from a puppy to an adult diet.
    • When making the switch to adult food, do it slowly over the course of one to two weeks by gradually mixing in increasing amounts of the adult food with decreasing amounts of her puppy food to minimize gastric upset.
    • So, the main difference between puppy food and adult food is in the protein and fat content, as well as the calorie density.
    • But if you have a puppy nearing one year of age, do you know when to switch to adult dog food? A veterinarian is always a good resource.
    • Mix a small amount of the adult food with your dog’s favorite puppy formula and slowly increase the amount over a week, while decreasing the puppy food.
    • After deciding it is time to switch your puppy to adult dog food, it’s time to consider how you will go about it.
    • In order to fuel your puppy’s healthy growth and development, you need to make sure that his nutritional needs are being met and the best way to do that is with a high-quality puppy food .
    • Continuing to feed puppy food past the point of maturity could result in weight gain, which can lead to other health problems.
    • switching from puppy food to adult food, how long do you feed a dog puppy food Your request has been blocked by one or more security restrictions.
    • switching from puppy food to adult food, how long do you feed a dog puppy food Your request has been blocked by one or more security restrictions.
    • But how do you know when to switch to an adult recipe and how do you make the transition? Unless you understand the difference between puppy food and adult dog food , you may not see why it is necessary to make the switch at all.
    • You should switch to an adult dog food when your puppy is anywhere from 18 months to 24 months old.
    • When switching from puppy food to adult food , you should make the switch gradually over a period of a few days.
    Show More..
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    Some further reading on how long to keep a puppy on puppy food (expert sources)

    Puppy feeding fundamentals American Kennel Club
    How long do dogs eat puppy food? — age, transition & methods Breeding Business
    Puppy Food Types, Feeding Schedule, and Nutrition WebMD
    When Should You Switch from Puppy to Adult Dog Food | petmd PetMD
    How long should i feed my dog puppy food? Dog Food Guide
    Puppy feeding guidelines | schedule & tips | cesar’s way Cesar’s Way
    When to switch to adult dog food Purina
    Is Your Puppy Ready for Adult Dog Food? | Douglas Feed & Pet Supply –
    Granite Bay, CA    		 Douglas Feed
    When to Switch to Adult Dog Food: Dog Food at Different Life Stages Pet Central by Chewy
    Is your puppy ready for adult dog food? IAMS
    Puppy feeding fundamentals American Kennel Club
    When To Switch A Puppy To Adult Food – caninejournal.com CanineJournal.com
    When to switch to adult dog food Eukanuba
    How Do I Switch or Transition Foods for My Dog? | Hill’s Pet Hill’s Pet Nutrition
    Switching to adult food from puppy food | cesar’s way Cesar’s Way

  • How Much Should I Feed My Dog? (22 Top Expert Tips)

    When I got my very first puppy one of the first questions I needed to answer was, how much should I feed my dog? Now, having cared for many dogs and been involved in dog ownership for multiple decades, guess what – I still ask the same question, only slightly modified: how much should I feed this particular dog, right now.

    how much should I feed my dog
    Know your dog’s healthy, optimum weight

    Novice dog owners and experienced dog owners will face this conundrum on a regular basis.

    The answer is, you feed your dog according to the following rules:

    1. Your dog’s age
    2. Your dog’s breed / type
    3. Your dog’s current weight
    4. Your dog’s current activity level
    5. Your dog’s specific ability to handle different types of food

    How much food does a dog really need?

    It seems not many a day goes by where we’re not hearing more about the rise and rise of obesity. Sadly, our pets are also widening around the girth.

    It is of course easy to control the amount of food your dog is eating and it is essential that you gauge your dog’s weight on a regular basis to ensure that it doesn’t get obese.

    Health problems from overfeeding dogs

    There are an increasing number of dogs suffering from this disease and in most cases this could have been avoided through the correct nutrition and monitoring the amount of food the dog has been eating.

    Having a dog with diabetes will necessitate the injection of insulin or in some cases taking of pills to assist in the maintenance of the correct sugar levels in their blood.

    Obviously this involves additional expense and inconvenience and there is also a danger that should the insulin level be incorrect your pet could die. All of this from simply giving them too much food? You bet!

    Dog feeding guidelines: how much food should me dog be eating?

    It makes sense then that your dog should only eat what is good for it and in quantities that won’t result in it developing health problems later in life.

    Feeding guidelines on dog food can be a good starting point when assessing how much dog food is the right amount, but as Dr Lowe told K9 Magazine:

    “feeding guidelines on dog food packaging are extremely useful but should serve as a starting point only when assessing the right amount of food in your dog’s daily diet.”

    Working dogs will need more food for the energy that they will expend in the course of the day but a dog that lays around the house all day and doesn’t get any exercise will not need to eat the same portions of food.

    You should weigh your dog on a regular basis and see whether it is gaining or losing weight and adjust the amount of food it is eating accordingly.

    You know, it’s quite incredible the amount of people who have literally no idea how much their dog weighs or indeed any idea of how much they should weigh. Simply getting to grips with this information can literally extend your dog’s life, in some cases for a considerable amount of time.

    Many experts argue that there has been a general decline in the general health of dogs that correlates with the widespread introduction of certain types of processed dog foods.

    Many of these low quality dog foods offer very little nutritional value but it is their convenience and the fact that they have added flavours that ensure our pets get delight in eating them that have increased the sales and popularity of this food. Understanding your dog’s specific nutritional requirements, again, can add years to their life.

    Free dog weight chart

    Bad diets for dogs have tragic consequences

    Just as we might like to eat foods that contain sugar, which is detrimental to our health, our dogs also like to eat these low value foods because they taste so good – in many cases, with dogs being such scavengers, they’ll simply beg for ANY food that’s potentially on offer. It is entirely in our control not to harm their health by giving in to their longing expressions! So if you’re wondering how much should I feed my dog of sugary snacks…the answer is (if possible) zero!

    Can I feed my dog table scraps?

    If our diet is bad, often our dog’s is too. Don’t believe me?

    A study by K9 Magazine showed that 98% of dog owners had fed their pets with scraps from their own tables at one time or another.

    Dogs can eat table scraps, of course, but it’s a simple formula to calculate that if our own diet is not healthy and we’re sharing that with our dogs then – our bad food = dogs sharing in our own poor diet!

    But therein lies another problem with many of the foods that we eat, unsuitable for dog consumption.

    Many people are finding good results in preparing their own dog food using only those ingredients that will enhance the health of the dog but don’t discount the range of high quality diets that are available in prepared form. Don’t for a second assume they’re all bad because nothing could be further from the truth.

    Good quality dog nutrition is available in the form of commercially prepared foods, canned dog food, raw dog food and even tailor-made dog food. The quality isn’t the main issue here if you’re asking yourself how much should I feed my dog, but over (or under) feeding will have a detrimental effect on your dog in multiple ways. It can and most likely will lead to them having a shorter lifespan.

    What the experts say about how much you should feed your dog:

    Here we’ve summarised a series of tips from credible dog nutrition sources to help you answer the question how much should I feed my dog:

    1. Naturally, smaller dogs need less food than larger ones, but what exactly is the perfect number? First, it’s important to have an accurate handle on how much your dog weighs and whether their body size is considered small, medium, or large.
    2. Young pups and senior dogs have very different needs – puppies need food for their growing bodies while adult dogs’ diets should be focused on maintaining their health.
    3. One of the best ways to keep dogs healthy is to feed them the right amount of a high-quality dog food. Feeding a lot more of a low quality food doesn’t compensate for nutritional deficiencies.
    4. For more on diagnosing an overweight dog, see this dog weight chart.
    5. If you are feeding a different brand, please consult the calorie information on-pack and adjust the amount of food accordingly to meet your dog’s recommended daily calories. Many people make the mistake of switching dog food brands and assuming they can feed the same volume of dog food. That can have big consequences.
    6. To determine how much food to feed your dog, you should start by knowing your dog’s estimated adult weight. Weighing your dog is the key to knowing how much to feed them.
    7. The value of feeding your dog a high-quality food is huge. Poor quality foods produce more waste, can cause digestive problems and often end up being more expensive (because to satisfy your dog you will need to feed him comparatively more).
    8. If you have an adult dog that maintains normal activity levels and doesn’t need special nutrition, check out pet food company Purina’s Dog Chow guide below to see how much food to feed your dog.
    9. It is also not ideal to feed your dog cat food as, since it is designed for cats, it doesn’t have the right balance of vitamins and minerals for dogs.
    10. A healthy feeding schedule and diet will ensure your dog is getting all of the proper nutrients they need from their food. (see: how often should I feed my dog?)
    11. It’s not just a matter of food quantity, so another question is, “How many calories should my dog eat?” There is a dog feeding calculator by weight available in the links below if you’re wondering exactly how much I should feed my dog.
    12. If you are using a commercial dog food, feed your dog the amount printed on the bag that fits with your dog’s ideal weight. This is so, so important. (see how to read dog food labels)
    13. Thinking about feeding raw dog food? (see Raw dog food for beginners)
    14. Since puppies are growing rapidly, they need more food than adult dogs in some cases (whacky, but true)
    15. Not all dogs can or need to eat the amount recommended by the food manufacturers. Speak with your vet if your dog is following the manufacturers guidelines but is either gaining or losing weight.
    16. Does the amount to be fed in the feeding guidelines pertain to each meal or the daily amount of how much I should feed my dog? How accurate are the feeding guidelines on my dog food label? The manufacturers’ recommended feeding guidelines are a starting point but your dog is your dog, so you’ll need to adjust accordingly.
    17. Too little food each day can cause dogs to be deficient in vital nutrients that help keep dogs healthy.
    18. Puppies need a high-energy food and because they are growing so fast they’ll require a food with more protein and calcium to help build a healthy adult dog, and more calorie-heavy fats to load them up with fuel.
    19. Dogs that gulp their food down too quickly tend to take in large amounts of air whilst eating which can cause stomach and digestive system upset. (beware the dangers of bloat in dogs)
    20. Even though puppies grow quickly, it’s important to keep caloric intake and food amount consistent from four to twelve months of age.
    21. Older dogs usually require lower caloric intake and may get heavy eating the same food they were eating in their younger years.
    22. Most adult dogs should eat two meals a day, and puppies often require three or more feedings, so you’ll need to divide the amount in the table by the number of meals you are offering.

    How Much Should I Feed My Dog – Sources

    How Much To Feed Your Dog | Prudent Pet Insurance Prudent Pet Insurance
    How Much Should Dogs Eat? | Calculate How Much to Feed Your Dog | PetMD PetMD
    How Often Should You Feed Your Dog? American Kennel Club
    Dog Feeding Guide Purina
    How Much Food Should You Feed Your Dog? | Dog Food Advisor MedicAnimal
    Dog Food Calculator by Breed & Weight | JustFoodForDogs JustDogFood
    Dog Feeding Time: How Much and How Often? WebMD
    Do You Know How Much You Should Feed Your Dog? Central California SPCA, Fresno, CA
    10 FAQ’s about dog feeding guidelines | Dry Dog Food | Dog Food |
    MedicAnimal.com    		 MedicAnimal
    Dog Feeding Guidelines Purina
  • Best Pet Treat Camera For Older Dogs

    Best Pet Treat Camera For Older Dogs

    We test a lot of pet tech. We’re lucky that way. So when we tell you what we think is the best pet treat camera for older dogs, it comes from a place of experience. We’ve tried loads.

    New research recently revealed that we spend the most on our dogs when they are puppies or in their senior years, which makes sense really.

    When our dogs are young, we try to find out what our puppies like/dislike to make them happy – and of course, the teething stage means we have to replace beds, toys, and more, multiple times, and when a dog enters their senior years, I think we’re more determined than ever to make each day special.

    Or that’s how I see it.

    Our oldest dog is 14 now and over the last couple of years, her mobility has slowed her down, her teeth and gums are more sensitive so hard chews are not really a suitable treat option any more and she’s never been one to play.

    But she loves food and when we first got her a Furbo pet treat camera, it changed her life.

    Here’s why.

    It brings unpredictability and variety to her day.

    She never knows when the jingle to let her know treats are being dispensed might ring out, so she is more alert because heaven forbid another dog gets any.

    When we’re away from home, it makes us feel like we’re never too far away from being connected with her. Something that’s more important than ever these days.

    The Furbo app, which you use to dispense treats, is simple to use and works off wifi.

    Furbo treat camera app

    The app also lets you save your memories, letting you take videos and photos, and gives you the option to personalise what your dog hears when treats are dispensed.

    Furbo treat camera two-way microphone (works even for older dogs)

    The two-way mic and speaker also means you can talk to them while away from home. They can hear you and you can hear them.

    It keeps her active and engaged.

    Over the last six months, like many older dogs, her hearing has started to fade and she relies on my other dogs to let her know when they hear my personalised ‘who wants a biscuit?’ jingle.

    Summary – the Furbo pet treat camera is perfect for older dogs (and younger ones too)

    However, even though she no longer hears like she once did, her desire to get to the dog camera for the treats before anyone else is still as strong as ever – and she will barge anyone out of her way if need be (she’s always been focused and single-minded).

    The concept of a dog treat cam may seem like a novelty in some ways, but quite honestly, we wouldn’t be without one. It has without a doubt made my dog’s days brighter.

    Want a Furbo pet treat camera for your dog?

    Get One Here
  • MCT Oil Could Help Dogs With Hard to Treat Epilepsy, New Study Reveals

    MCT Oil Could Help Dogs With Hard to Treat Epilepsy, New Study Reveals

    Epilepsy is the most common canine neurological disorder and it is estimated that four in 100 dogs will suffer from the condition and it can affect dogs in different ways.

    Some of the most common dog breeds affected by epilepsy include German Shepherds, Beagles, Golden Retrievers, Border Collies, Cavalier King Charles Spaniels, Dachshunds, Border Terriers, English Springer Spaniels and Labrador Retrievers.

    New research conducted by the Royal Veterinary College (RVC), funded by The American Kennel Club Canine Health Foundation (AKC CHF), has tested the effects of an oil supplement on seizure frequency in dogs with drug-resistant epilepsy, with very encouraging results.

    The RVC say their research shows that small changes to the diets of dogs with hard-to-treat epilepsy has the potential to reduce the number of seizures and improve the quality of life for affected dogs and their owners.

    Epilepsy is the most common long-term neurological condition in dogs and can be very distressing for both dogs and their owners. Current treatments focus on managing the condition and reducing how often seizures occur. However, despite treatment with appropriate anti-seizure medication, approximately one-third of dogs continue to experience frequent seizures. This has significant impacts on their behaviour and cognitive functions and can also make dogs prone to anxiety.

    Helping develop new treatment strategies to reduce epileptic seizures and improve the overall welfare of dogs, a team of researchers, led by veterinarians Professor Holger Volk and Dr Benjamin Andreas Berk, alongside canine behaviour and welfare scientist Dr Rowena Packer, at the RVC, tested the effects of an oil supplement on seizure frequency in dogs with drug-resistant epilepsy.

    Previous research by the RVC had shown that the oil, which contains a specific type of fat known as medium-chain triglycerides, or MCTs, could have beneficial effects when included within a dry kibble diet. During this study, the oil was added as a supplement to a dog’s existing diet to determine if the same benefits could be achieved. The oil was tested in a rigorous clinical trial during which 28 dogs received the MCT oil for three months and a placebo oil for three months. Both owners and investigators were blind to which oil dogs were receiving during each phase.

    Overall, dogs had significantly fewer seizures during the MCT phase compared the placebo phase, and an improved owner-reported quality of life. New therapies are urgently needed to improve the quality of life of affected dogs and their owners and the results of this study offer a promising addition to other methods commonly used to treat canine epilepsy.

    Dr Rowena Packer, BBSRC Research Fellow at the Royal Veterinary College, said:

    “Epilepsy is often a challenging and distressing condition for dog owners to manage, particularly when dogs don’t respond to anti-seizure medications in the way their owner and vet might have expected or hoped. Historically, diet has not been considered a key part of epilepsy management, but along with other recent findings, these results indicate that nutrition likely plays an important role in seizure control.

    “Our novel findings indicate that a relatively small change to the diet of dogs’ with hard-to-treat epilepsy can potentially reduce the number of seizures they have, while also improving their medication side effects and overall quality of life. MCT oil offers a promising addition to the wider epilepsy management tool-kit.”

    Dog epilepsy seizure triggers

    Canine epilepsy seizures are stressful for both the dog and owner and can appear unpredictable and uncontrollable.

    Dr Sarah Finnegan, a PhD student at the RVC studied the behaviour and environment of dogs to identify seizure triggers to help dog owners spot signs that their dog might be about to have a seizure.

    Here are some of the most common triggers and signs dog owners reported before a dog had an epileptic seizure:

    • Nearly two thirds of owners reported pre-seizure changes in their dog (65 per cent), most commonly stating clinginess, excessive energy, and unsettled sleep.

      These signs varied between dogs, with other common changes including clumsiness, excessive panting, becoming withdrawn or quiet, and lacking energy.

    • Nearly half of owners (43 per cent) also reported seizure triggers, which commonly involved stress, food and excitement.

      A wide range of other triggers were reported by owners including loud noises, fireworks, storms, household products (cleaning products and air freshener), and preventative healthcare including flea and worming products and vaccinations.

    • Over half of owners (60%) believed they were able to predict an upcoming seizure in their dog by using a combination of pre-seizure changes and recognising triggers.

      Nearly half of these owners were able to do so 30 minutes or more before the seizure commenced.

    Dr Rowena Packer, BBSRC Research Fellow and research lead in canine epilepsy at the RVC, said:

    “It was fascinating to discover how in-tune many owners of dogs with epilepsy are with subtle changes in their dog’s behaviour before seizures. Many of our findings echo what is seen in human epilepsy patients and add evidence to support the presence of prodromal pre-seizure periods in dogs as well as people. Collecting further objective data to confirm these findings and explore ways to proactively utilise this period for seizure management are of priority for future research.

    “This study also highlights how crucial it is that owners of dogs with epilepsy keep good records, not just of their dog’s seizures, but also of changes in behaviour and exposure to potential triggers, to gain a better picture of patterns in their dog’s seizure activity. The RVC Pet Epilepsy Tracker app allows owners to keep records, that can also be shared electronically with their vet and with RVC for further research.”

  • Simple Tips to Help Your Dog Live Longer

    It’s now a well-established fact that being a dog owner helps you live a longer, healthier, happier life.

    So with that in mind, here are 20 great tips that will keep both you and your dog in the peak of health… Doga! All the benefits of Yoga, suppleness, flexibility and muscle toning and dogs can join in too.

    Take your dog with you on that journey for internal peace. You can both hold the ‘mountain’, ‘lotus’ or ‘cobra’ position, but don’t forget to warm up first. An excellent work out for both human and dog is a good old ‘tug-o-war’. Although usually spontaneous, a five-minute session will burn off as many calories as a brisk fifteen-minute walk. Use an old rag or t-shirt and go for it.

    It is best if you crouch down to start with to avoid bending the back improperly. Your dog will love this one, but make sure you win, or you could be saddled with a very cocky young pup! Short and often beats once a day. Walking the dog should never be a chore. Frequent, shorter walks are often more beneficial to you both than one long stroll a day.

    Want more tips on how to extend your dog’s life?
    Our friends at K9 Magazine have produced 100 tips on how to help your dog live a longer, happier, healthier life. If you’d like to get expert insight in to ways you can help your dog to live longer:

    Learn More ⇢

    Bringing your heart rate up regularly increases cardiovascular fitness. A two-minute jog completed by a five-minute stroll four times a day will get results pretty sharpish. Make minor diet adjustments. Replacing fizzy drinks with cordial will benefit a weight loss programme. Small changes that do not overhaul your lifestyle are easier to stick to. Changing an overweight dog’s portion size beats re-designing his whole diet plan.

    Worming your pet is important all year round, however, for one hookworm, in particular, Uncinaria stenocephala, there is a sharp rise from July to September. In heavily infested pups, it can have nasty results such as diarrhoea, anorexia and lethargy. By worming every three months your pet will be protected.

    Camp it up. A camping trip with your dog is fun and can offer lots of opportunity for exercise. It will give him a whole new world to sniff and the exercise happens without you even noticing. Let him do all the work. If you are looking for an easy ride, but want your dog to get a work out get a Frisbee. All you need to do is toss the thing and he will (hopefully) bring it straight back. This will provide an excellent aerobic work out for him that will also relieve any boredom. If possible, incorporate water into the activity. Toss the Frisbee into the pond or lake (it will float) and let him swim for it.

    BARF. A diet based around raw meat and bones is a superb and very natural diet for a dog that could use a little more protein. Although it may not sound it, this diet is very healthy and suits all breeds of dog. Not sure about raw? Not to worry, you can delve into the subject and read raw dog food pros and cons here to help you decide if a raw diet is right for your dog.

    Hide his toys. If you have a lazy dog, a good way to encourage exercise is to move his toys whenever you go upstairs. If he is loafing about downstairs make sure, the next time you go up the stairs that you take his favourite toy with you. It may only be a small amount, but any exercise is better than none.

    This can also be practised at mealtimes. To avoid a soaking. Long-haired breeds require frequent grooming. When showering or bathing your dog, always wait until the very end to wash the head. You will notice that your dog will only ‘shake out’ when his head gets wet. For supple joints, both of you should eat fish once a week.

    It is high in potassium and low in sodium. Coldwater fish such as trout and salmon are both excellent for joints. Older dogs will benefit from the presence of fish in the diet. For a healthy coat. Give your dog a daily dose of Safflower, Corn, Soybean or Cotton Seed Oil in their food (1 teaspoon) this really helps them to have a great looking coat and reduces hair loss. Now you can style your hair in that shiny coat. In the summertime.

    Make sure nobody suffers from sunburn by being generous with the sunscreen. Even the dog should get some factor 12 on his nose. To keep him cool and burn free, a damp t-shirt will do him no fashion favours, but will keep him comfortable. Water, water everywhere. An oldie but a goodie. Water is never bad for you, but it is especially good for the bipedal during the summer months. Six pints a day (not all at once) re-hydrate the skin and flush out many of your body’s impurities. It is always good for the dog to have a fresh water supply, as an over-excited dog can become dehydrated very quickly.

    Regular checkups. A great way to judge a dog’s inner health is by the state of his coat. A full, glossy coat spells a healthy, well looked after dog. But a comprehensive check up by you can be a huge help. You will be able to find any suspicious lumps, be able to tell if he is under or over weight (a thick coat can conceal this) and is a great way to bond with your dog. Once you get used to your dog, you are more likely to spot any alarming changes later on in life.

    Back of the net! Former West Ham United star John Harley is famous amongst his football pals for training with his dog. You too can have a kick about with your mates and get the dog involved. He will love chasing the ball around at your feet and capitalizing on any schoolboy errors you may make defensively!

    For the more dedicated sports person. Ed Moses, the world’s most successful 400m hurdles runner is making a return to athletics at the age of 48. He trained for the comeback specifically with his dog. You can do the same. Anything athletic will or at least should, appeal to a healthy dog. He will try and join you, but he will never defeat you, because you are the champ, aren’t you? Laps of a track are always good for endurance.

    A winning smile can be achieved through regular brushing, and not much else. Despite what people might have you believe, biscuits or chews do not replace a good tooth brushing. To clean teeth sufficiently, there needs to be brushing action. Even he protests, get that brush working on those canine chompers.

    Take a dip. Quite possibly the most beneficial exercise going. This works for all muscle groups. The resistance pressure of the water is dictated by how fast you want to go, and if you get tired get Rover to pull you along with his tail, he’ll love it. Most dogs love a good splash about, you’ll spot the ones that don’t.

    Get in line. If you stick to all of the above you both should be feeling pretty good by the end of the summer. This is when you take that last risk before winter comes round again. Get the skates on. Roller skating or in-line skating is a great way to burn fat, get around faster and provided you can stay vertical, it is a great way for you and your dog to have a good laugh on the park. Watch out for those posing so-and-sos who just want to whip by and make you feel slow.

  • Can Dogs Take Human Painkillers?

    One of the biggest search terms that brings people to this site is ‘can dogs take human painkillers?’. The actual article that this leads people to is a news item about a company that has developed painkillers for dogs. I wanted to put up this post to definitively answer the specific question that (a lot of) people are asking about whether they can actually give their dog human painkillers.

    Can Dogs Have Human Painkillers?

    The short and very important answer ‘can I give my dog human pain killers?’ is a resounding no!

    No, no and thrice no. Don’t do it, don’t consider it.

    It is absolutely horrendous for any dog lover to see their dog suffering with any kind of pain.

    We know and appreciate that dogs can’t talk and can’t be specific with us about where their pain might be or even how bad it is.

    But, we know our dogs and we do know when they’re in pain so – it would seem – often times owners will turn to the Internet and research whether it would be OK to slip them a paracetamol or other human manufactured pain management drug.

    Sadly, dogs have come to serious harm and death as a result of being given medicine that was not developed with their specific needs in mind. And sometimes the suffering resulting from such (an honest) error can be excruciating for the dog and obviously very, very traumatic for the dog’s owner.

    There is – and I appreciate this might be the boring response – only one responsible response to a dog in pain and that is to call in the professionals. You can, of course, manage your dog’s health on a day to day basis. For example, there are now dog health tracker apps to help dog owners monitor the day to day well-being of their pet.

    Dogs in pain should be seen by a vet who will be able to both identify the underlying cause and prescribe the most effective pain management solution.

    The sooner the dog can be seen and treated, the faster the issue can be brought under control.

    So, no matter how tempting it may be – be warned: giving dogs human pain killers can kill them and can actually cause much, much worse suffering for the animal.

    Breakthrough on Painkillers for Dogs

    A pharmaceutical company focused on pet health has announced it is to market the first canine pain management product delivered in a transmucosal mist form. Abbott (NYSE:ABT) announced today they have partnered with Velcera, Inc to bring to market the product – currently in clinical trials – which combines the proven pain medication meloxicam, a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) with Velcera’s patented Promist technology, and has been globally licensed for pain management in dogs.

    “Abbott Animal Health is dedicated to bringing high quality and innovative treatments to veterinarians and their clients,” said Lynn Bromstedt, divisional vice president, Abbott Animal Health. “This revolutionary pain management product will be a great addition to Abbott’s existing animal health portfolio and could make medication compliance easier for pet owners.”

    Promist technology delivers the active ingredient through a fine mist to the inside cheek or oral cavity of the animal, where it is quickly absorbed through the mucous membranes of the mouth. Studies show the product is bioequivalent with oral liquid formulations, and bioavailability can be as much as ten times that of a tablet formulation, depending on the active ingredient.

    In addition to convenience for pet owners, Promist(TM) technology has several other advantages such as increased dosing confidence, faster absorption than delivery with a tablet or liquid and less concern with food interactions.

    “Being able to partner with a trusted company like Abbott on a product of this nature is a testament to the importance of this technology,” said Dennis Steadman, chief executive officer, Velcera. “This agreement will help bring this new treatment method to market for the benefit of pets and pet owners.”

    The product will expand Abbott Animal Health’s core focus areas, which currently include products in the areas of diabetes, anesthesia, wound care and fluid therapy, in addition to a recently announced partnership for one of the first cancer medicines designed specifically for dogs.

    Under the terms of the agreement, both parties have committed to consider future product developments and registrations using the Promist technology.

    The news of advancements in pain management for dogs is one sure to be warmly welcomed by owners. The issue of what pain medicine can be used on dogs is one of the most popular dog related search terms online. Analytic data suggests many dog owners turn to the web first to ask questions such as ‘can I give paracetamol to my dog?’ and other related terms. If you suspect your dog is in pain it is an absolute must to consult with a vet and never, ever attempt to give a dog human painkillers.

  • Shenzen Bans Consumption of Dogs, Cats & Wildlife, Which Cities Will Follow?

    Shenzen Bans Consumption of Dogs, Cats & Wildlife, Which Cities Will Follow?

    China’s city of Shenzhen has just passed a ground-breaking law to ban the consumption and production of dog and cat meat, the first city in China to do so. The ban has been welcomed by long-time anti-dog meat trade campaigners Humane Society International as a watershed moment in efforts to ban the trade across China.

    The food safety legislation (Shenzhen Special Economic Region Regulation on a Comprehensive Ban on the Consumption of Wild Animals) proposed in February by Shenzhen legislators, comes into effect on 1st May.

    A dog rescued from a Yulin slaughterhouse, pictured at a rescue shelter in North China / Photo Credit: HSI

    Unlike the temporary ban on wildlife markets and consumption passed by the national government, Shenzhen’s ban is a permanent prohibition on the consumption, breeding, and sale of wildlife such as snakes, lizards, and other wild animals for human consumption, with heavy fines of up 150,000 yuan.

    Although advanced in response to the coronavirus outbreak, an unrelated ban on the consumption of “pet” animals was also included in acknowledgement of their status as companion animals. In announcing the ban, a spokesperson for the Shenzhen government said “… dogs and cats as pets have established a much closer relationship with humans than all other animals, and banning the consumption of dogs and cats and other pets is a common practice in developed countries and in Hong Kong and Taiwan. This ban also responds to the demand and spirit of human civilization.”

    To further underpin that, the law clarifies those species permitted to be consumed (pig, cattle, sheep, rabbit, chicken etc, with dogs and cats noticeably absent). Therefore from May 1, the sale of cats and dogs for human consumption will now be banned in restaurants and stores throughout Shenzhen, and sale of live cats and dogs for consumption will be banned in markets.

    Dr Peter Li, China policy specialist for animal protection charity Humane Society International, welcomed the news, saying: “With Shenzhen taking the historic decision to become mainland China’s first city to ban dog and cat meat consumption, this really could be a watershed moment in efforts to end this brutal trade that kills an estimated 10 million dogs and 4 million cats in China every year.

    The majority of these companion animals are stolen from people’s back yards or snatched from the streets, and are spirited away on the backs of trucks to be beaten to death in slaughterhouses and restaurants across China.

    Shenzhen is China’s fifth largest city so although the dog meat trade is fairly small there compared with the rest of the province, its true significance is that it could inspire a domino effect with other cities following suit. Most people in China don’t eat dog or cat meat, and there is considerable opposition to the trade particularly among younger Chinese.

    Although World Health Organisation advice is clear that dogs and cats pose no known coronavirus threat whatsoever, it’s no surprise that attention is turning to this trade at this time because it undoubtedly poses a huge human health risk for other diseases such as rabies, as well as causing immense animal suffering.”

    Dr Teresa M. Telecky, vice president of the wildlife department for Humane Society International, said: “Shenzhen is the first city in the world to take the lessons learned from this pandemic seriously and make the changes needed to avoid another pandemic. People around the world are suffering the impact of this pandemic because of one thing: the wildlife trade. Shenzhen’s bold steps to stop this trade and wildlife consumption is a model for governments around the world to emulate. We urge all governments to follow suit by banning wildlife trade, transport and consumption for any purpose.”

    UPDATE APRIL 2020

    The city of Zhuhai in Guangdong province has become the second city in mainland China to ban the consumption of dog and cat meat, and of wildlife.

    Zhuhai’s ban comes after China’s Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs publicly stated that dogs are companion animals and not “livestock”. The Standing Committee of the People’s Congress of Zhuhai Municipality stated that lawmakers must adhere to China’s livestock “white list” of animals for human consumption.

    Other cities in mainland China are believed to be considering bans.

  • Warning Over Dog Sickness Bug Spreading the UK

    Warning Over Dog Sickness Bug Spreading the UK

    Dog owners are being asked to remain vigilant as gastroenteritis spreads the UK.

    The dog sickness bug has already been reported by vets in Gloucestershire, Derbyshire, Lancashire and Oxfordshire.

    Gastroenteritis is the inflammation of the stomach and intestines and dogs can catch from bacteria, viruses, such as parvovirus, parasites, medications, or even new food. According to the Blue Cross, underlying health problems such as liver or kidney disease can also cause gastroenteritis and are more likely to affect older dogs and cats.

    The most common signs of gastroenteritis in dogs often involve abdominal discomfort alongside pale gums, loss of appetite, low energy, vomiting and diarrhoea (if bloody this indicates a more aggressive form of gastroenteritis called haemorrhagic gastroenteritis).

    Vomiting and diarrhoea can result in dehydration, which if left untreated can be very serious.

    Dogs usually recover within a few days, but it is especially important to seek advice for very young or elderly dogs quickly. If you spot any of these signs, speak with your vet to share symptoms and put a treatment plan in place.

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