Dog

Summer weather advice If you're planning to be out and about with your dog this summer, it's important to know how to make sure you dog stays happy and healthy.  Here are our six steps to a safe summer: Plan your walkies Walk your dog in the early morning or late in the evening when temperatures are cooler so they will be at reduced risk of heatstroke – be particularly careful if your dog is unfit, obese or suffers from breathing difficulties. Do the Seven Second Test Tarmac can get very hot in the sun – check it with your hand before letting your dog walk on it so they do not burn their paws. Try the 'seven-second test'; if it's too hot for your hand, it's too hot for your dog's paws. Check dogs are welcome If you're planning a day out, check whether dogs are welcome at the visitor attractions you plan to visit. Some public parks and beaches may have   Public Space Protection Orders or Dog Control Orders   in place over summer, so ...

How to find a good dog walker Dogs need daily exercise to keep them fit and healthy. At times, your schedule may not give you the time you need to exercise your dog, so you may be thinking about using professional dog walking services. More dog owners are using professional dog walking services but nearly 60% of owners have no contract or legal agreement in place. Our advice will help you to find a good dog walker so you can ensure your dog is in safe hands. What to look for in a good dog walker When a professional dog walker is caring for your dog, they are legally responsible for them, so it’s important that your dog walker understands what this means. If you are searching for a dog walker, here’s the key requirements to look for: What training do they have? Ideally this should include up-to-date evidence-based knowledge of dog behaviour and dog handling. Dog walkers should also have canine first aid certificates and carry a canine first aid kit with them on walks. ...