Q: My old dog suffers from hip dysplasia, and mornings are really tough for him. Are there any exercises we can do with him that will help him? A: This is a painful condition which causes an instability in the hip joints, and often results in arthritis later on in the dog’s life. Most dogs […]
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Here is something to keep your cat entertained and moving at the same time. Research shows that in addition to helping to prevent weight gain, physical exercise increases muscle tone and strengthens and improves joint flexibility, digestion and circulation in cats. On the emotional side, a mentally stimulated cat is less likely to develop depression
Let’s face it, cats are nothing like dogs. They’re not people pleasers and they will only do something if and when they feel like doing it. In most cases, they will do something if there is something in it for them and it suits their mood at that moment. This means that teaching kitty something
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Q: What should I do if I pick up a baby bird in the park? A: If at all possible, place the baby back in his nest. If the bird is already a fledgling (can fly a bit) and the area is safe, leave him where you found him. The adults are most likely around,
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The excitement of getting a new puppy often clouds people’s judgement, and unethical breeders and scammers take advantage of this emotional moment. But think carefully before you commit yourself to a specific puppy. First make sure that you can take care of the dog for the next 12 to 15 years. Then, ensure that you
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Sneaky cat Dear Patches, My doggy brain just cannot comprehend how our cat, Tenacious, operates. Sometimes, he sneaks up on me while I’m minding my own business – like peacefully chewing my toy – and then he pounces on me as if I’m giant prey. I get such a fright and then my heart starts
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Q: I have had two budgies in a cage for almost two years and they used to get along so well. Lately, the one budgie has been ‘attacking’ the other one for no apparent reason. Why is this happening? Should I separate them? A: There are a number of possible reasons for this behaviour. Firstly,
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It is a personal preference whether you allow your dog on the bed or not. But think about reinforcement for a second – sleeping on the bed is comfortable, it smells like his people, he’s close to his people, perhaps he gets cuddles on the bed too. Sleeping in his own bed simply does not
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Medical doctors are quick to point out that obesity in humans is unhealthy and serious. They follow their narrative with a myriad of diseases, conditions and added risks for those carrying excess weight. The risks are real. The diseases can be deadly. Whether we heed the advice or not, is up to us… While many
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Holiday nightmare Dear Patches, What’s more interesting than finding travel bags on the bed? Getting inside and scrambling, kneading and unpacking the neatly folded clothing inside. I make sure that the softer fabrics are in one corner, knead the T-shirts into one heap and create a soft pillow for my kitty head. When Mom comes
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Not much is as comforting as getting into bed at the end of the day or even taking a nap during the day. Most dogs share the same sentiment and love curling up in their beds for a relaxing snooze. But are you aware that the same comforting bed and bedding can cause your dog
What’s hiding in your dog’s bed? Read More »
Q: Our four-year-old Dachshund, Alice, has started to poo in the lounge in the middle of the night. She goes out into the garden before bedtime, so we can’t understand this new behaviour. Help please! We don’t discipline her as, when it is discovered, it is hours after the act. A: I am glad to
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