LTH

H E A

Dedicated to dog health, wellbeing, behaviour & nutrition

CLOCK WORK
Your dog’s remarkable abilty
to predict your return

PLAY OR
PLAY SAFE?
Managing the
intensity of play

ABOUT
BALANCE
The delicate symphony
of weight management

CHANGE MINDS
A canine chronicle of
changing attitudes

REE
B FOD
CUS

Issue 63 £4.85

THE MALTESE
The small breed with the big Wow factor
Plus: Chew on this ● Lifestyle ● Advice ● Products ● Training ● First Aid Pull Out
 FIRST WORD

Welcome to issue 63
Wow what a quick year 2023
seems to have been. Thank
you for all your support
throughout the year and
I hope you created some
special memories over the
festive period.
Thank you for reading

Jennifer
x

003
INSIDE

p28
Features
Sense of time ....................................................P8 we manage allergic skin disease through
We explore how your dog’s internal body medications and immunotherapy.
clock works and its remarkable ability to
predict your return. Balancing act ................................................. P60
We explore the delicate symphony of
The development of skin issues ............. P14 managing your dog’s body weight.
Trisha describes how skin issues can
develop and offer insight into their Pre-existing conditions, what’s the big

p14
treatment. deal? .................................................................. P66
“At times, it was like pushing a boulder
Losing weight, the natural way ............. P22 uphill. We don’t just pick a condition and
We share a certified canine nutritionist’s give it a price”. We catch up with K9 Cover
advice on how to help your dog lose to find out more. from our history with dogs, to nutrition,
weight naturally. behaviour and training.
Household chemicals and natural
To play or to play SAFELY ........................ P28 diets ....................................................................P70 Are you considering competing with your
Nia offers her expert insight into how we Nurturing your dog’s microbiome and dog? ................................................................... P83
can manage the intensity of the games immune system. There are countless dog sports in the
dogs play. UK that you can compete in, whether in
Green, Clean, Omega-3 Machine ..........P74 person at competitions. We find out more.
Top tips for feeding raw ............................ P34 How algae is transforming pet nutrition.
The team from the popular Facebook group Changing attitudes...................................... P86
Raw Feeding for Dogs Made Simple UK East Rushton Cottages...............................P76 A canine chronicle of changing attitudes
share their top tips for feeding your dog a The differences is in the detail.
raw diet. Cat-ching criminals with DNA from pet
A DOG’S LIFE podcast .............................. P80 hairs ................................................................... P89
Understanding allergies: Part three .... P42 Anna Webb highlights some key We find out how pet hair has the potential
In the last of this series, we’ll look at how ’conversations’ covering everything to catch criminals.

004
 INSIDE

Regulars
Chew on this .....................................................P6
Catch up on the latest news from the dog
world.

First Aid Pull Out .......................................... P49

Lameness.

Breed Focus:
Maltese ............................................................. P54
We get up close to this small breed with
the big Wow factor.

p54
Pooch Products
p8
Golden Paste .................................................. P91

COYA ................................................................. P92

DotDot Pet ...................................................... P95

Pawer Water ................................................... P96

p22
005
Chew
on this…
Staffies more likely to be abandoned than any other
dog breed
Staffordshire bull terriers look set to be abandoned by their owners - and we fear the given up and dumped.
the most-abandoned dog breed in 2023, winter could be bleak for countless dogs. “Behind these shocking statistics are
new figures from the RSPCA shows. French “The cost of living is one of the biggest thousands of vulnerable animals. Each one is
bulldogs were the second most abandoned barriers to animal welfare and is making it a valuable life in urgent need of our help.”
breed - with 582 reported to the animal harder for some owners. Many pet owners are
charity this year - and German shepherds struggling, even more than last year, which is
were third (542 abandonments). likely impacting these shocking figures. Most abandoned dog breeds in 2023
Overall, 16,040 dogs were reported “Regardless of their breed, all dogs
abandoned to the RSPCA in 2023 - up from are loving and loyal to their owners so it’s Breed
15,666 in 2022. Some individual calls to the heartbreaking that people decide to abandon 1. Staffordshire bull terrier = 1,316
RSPCA’s emergency line relate to multiple them, instead of asking for help.” 2. French bulldog = 582
abandoned dogs. Dermot Murphy, RSPCA inspectorate 3. German shepherd = 542
Animal abandonment incidents have commissioner, added: “The combined effects 4. Jack Russell = 467
soared to a shocking three-year high, as the of the pandemic and the ongoing cost of 5. Chihuahua = 348
RSPCA warns that unwanted pets face a living crisis has created a perfect storm - and 6. Husky = 342
bleak winter. means we expect more animals than ever will 7. Lurcher = 328
Dermot Murphy, RSPCA inspectorate need our help this year. 8. Collie = 316
commissioner, said: “These figures show “Abandonment calls to our emergency line 9. Labrador = 290
that, despite being man’s best friend, we are now at a three-year high, as we respond 10. Mastiff = 227
are seeing far too many dogs being sadly to an increasing number of animals being

006
 CHEW ON THIS

Our Editor, Jennifer, Welcomes New Family Member.

Meet Walt the Irish Setter!!!
In a heart-warming addition to her already Walt's story promises to be one filled with committed to the world of dogs and the bonds
canine-filled household, Jennifer Dow, accomplishments, shared by a family deeply they create.
editor of Edition Dog Magazine, has recently
welcomed a new family member named Walt.
Walt, a lively Irish Setter, has quickly
become the center of attention in the Dow
household, bringing joy and laughter to
Jennifer, her partner Mark, their daughter
Caitlin, and two fellow Irish Setters, Lily
and Alice.
The Dow family shared their excitement
about the new addition, expressing how Walt
has seamlessly integrated into their lives.
Jennifer stated, "Walt is a bundle of energy and
charm. He's already stolen our hearts, and we
can't wait to see him grow and develop into a
wonderful dog."
Walt, like any typical puppy, has been
relishing the simple pleasures of puppyhood—
exploring the family garden, forming bonds
with each family member, and engaging in
early training sessions. The Dow family has
been documenting Walt's adorable antics, and
followers of Edition Dog Magazine are eagerly
awaiting updates on his journey.
Jennifer Dow shared her plans for Walt's
future. "Walt will be starting Ring Craft classes
in January, and we have high hopes for him.
We'll be sharing his progress in the magazine,
allowing our readers to follow his journey from
a playful puppy to a show dog."

Dog New Year Resolutions

Has your dog made their resolution for this year? Here are five light-
hearted and amusing resolutions a dog might make:
Master the Art of Stealth: Pledge to improve ninja-level stealth skills
when it comes to stealing human food. Sneakiness and a wagging tail
shall be my allies in this culinary quest.
Perfect the Puppy-Eyes Technique: Hone the ability to deploy the
irresistible puppy-eyes technique at peak effectiveness. Ensure maximum
treat acquisition and extra belly rubs throughout the year.
Become a Canine Comedian: Make a commitment to perfecting the art
of timing with well-timed barks, goofy expressions, and tail wags to keep
the household in stitches. Laughter is the best medicine, after all.
Expand the Chew Toy Collection: Resolve to diversify the chew toy
selection by acquiring a rainbow of squeaky, bouncy, and indestructible
toys. A comprehensive toy arsenal is crucial for a fulfilled canine life.
Embrace the Inner Lap Dog: Embrace the inner lap dog and insist on
claiming the comfiest spots on the couch or bed. Human laps are prime
real estate, and I shall establish myself as the undisputed ruler of the
snuggle zone.

007
SENSE OF TIME

We explore how your dog’s internal body clock works

and its remarkable ability to predict your return.

D
ogs have long been celebrated as loyal and Sleep-wake cycle
devoted companions to humans. Their One of the most fundamental aspects of a dog’s
unconditional love and keen senses make circadian rhythm is its sleep-wake cycle. Dogs typically
them incredibly attuned to their human follow a schedule where they sleep during the night and
family members. One fascinating aspect are active during the day. This pattern closely aligns
of their behaviour is their ability to predict with human schedules, making it easier for dogs to
when their owners are coming home. This uncanny adapt to our routines. Dogs tend to be more alert and
skill is often attributed to a dog’s internal body clock, active during the daytime, and this awareness of time
also known as circadian rhythms, which helps them contributes to their ability to anticipate our return.
synchronise their activities and anticipate events in their
daily lives. This essay will delve into the intriguing world Sensing environmental cues
of a dog’s internal body clock and how it aids them in Dogs are highly perceptive animals with a keen
knowing when their owners are returning home. sense of their environment. They can pick up on
various cues and changes in their surroundings,
Circadian rhythms in dogs and these cues often help them track
Circadian rhythms are internal biological clocks that time and anticipate events. Some of the
regulate an organism’s physiological and behavioural environmental cues that dogs use to predict
patterns over a 24-hour cycle. These rhythms are found their owner’s return include changes in
in almost all living creatures, including humans and lighting, sounds, and scents. For example,
dogs. In dogs, circadian rhythms regulate various bodily a dog might notice the gradual fading
functions, such as sleep-wake cycles, body temperature, of daylight, the reduction in outdoor
and hormone secretion. Understanding how these noises, or the absence of certain smells
circadian rhythms work is crucial to appreciating associated with their owner’s departure.
a dog’s ability to predict when their owners are All of these cues contribute to their
coming home. internal clock.

008
 SENSE OF TIME

Words: Jennifer Dow

009
SENSE OF TIME

“Dogs start recognising these patterns when

their owners depart and return home regularly.”
Social and routine patterns Short-term memory
Dogs are creatures of habit. They thrive on routines and Dogs have a relatively short-term memory compared to
schedules, which provide them with a sense of security humans. This means they might not keep track of the
and predictability. Dogs start recognising these patterns hours and minutes that pass when you’re away. Instead,
when their owners depart and return home regularly. they remember events and routines within a shorter
They learn that a specific time of day is associated time frame, such as recognising that you usually leave
with their owner’s absence; similarly, they associate the for work in the morning and return in the evening.
return with another particular time. This recognition
of routine plays a crucial role in their ability to predict Social and emotional bonds
your arrival. Dogs form strong social and emotional bonds with their
human companions. These bonds play a significant
Temperature and hormonal changes role in their ability to anticipate your return. When
Circadian rhythms also influence a dog’s body you leave, your dog may experience separation anxiety
temperature and hormonal fluctuations. Dogs can or stress, eagerly awaiting your arrival. They pay
detect and use these changes to anticipate when their close attention to your emotional state and associate
owners will be coming home. For instance, as a person the return with the joy and relief they feel when
prepares to return home, their body temperature you’re back.
may increase, and stress hormones like cortisol might
be elevated. Being highly attuned to their owner’s Scent and familiarity
emotional states, dogs can sense these subtle shifts Dogs have an extraordinary sense of smell. They can
in temperature and hormone levels, adding to their detect and remember scents over time, associating
anticipation of the owner’s return. certain smells with specific individuals or events.
Your dog may recognise your scent and the scent of
How dogs perceive time your belongings, which provides them with a sensory
Understanding how dogs perceive time is essential to connection to you. They know you are about to leave
grasp the depth of their ability to predict when you are or return home when they sense these familiar scents.
coming home. Dogs don’t perceive time in the same way
humans do. While humans have a well-defined concept Routines and events
of hours and minutes, dogs experience time more fluidly As previously mentioned, dogs thrive on routines.
and relatively. Here’s how dogs perceive time: They learn to anticipate events based on patterns

010
 SENSE OF TIME

and cues they observe in their environment. When more alert and attentive. They recognise the emotional
you follow a consistent schedule, your dog becomes signals you emit, and their anticipation grows as they
attuned to it, allowing them to predict your departure sense the impending reunion.
and return. They understand time in relation to these
established routines. Olfactory recognition
Dogs rely heavily on their sense of smell to understand
How dogs predict your return the world around them. They can detect your unique
Now that we have explored the various components of scent and the scent of your belongings. Before you
a dog’s internal body clock and their perception of time enter the house, your dog may pick up on your scent
let’s delve into how these factors come together to help from outside, signalling that you are approaching. This
dogs predict your return home: olfactory recognition enhances their ability to predict
your arrival.
Routine anticipation
Dogs are masters of recognising patterns and routines. Body temperature and hormones
If you typically leave for work around the same time As you prepare to return home, your body temperature
each day and return at a consistent hour, your dog will may rise, and hormonal changes may occur due to the
become accustomed to this routine. They will start anticipation of seeing your dog. Dogs are sensitive to
associating specific activities, such as putting on your these physiological changes and can detect them. This
work attire or grabbing your keys, with your imminent sensitivity allows them to gauge your impending arrival
departure. Similarly, they will sense your return as the and respond with excitement.
time approaches.
The science behind it
Sensing environmental changes While a dog’s ability to predict its owner’s return may
As your departure time draws near, your dog may seem almost mystical, there is a scientific basis for
detect subtle environmental changes that signal your this phenomenon. Some studies have explored the
impending leave. These changes can include the fading relationship between dogs and their owners’ schedules
of natural daylight or the reduced ambient sounds in and the role of circadian rhythms in this process.
your home as it grows quieter. Your dog is perceptive to A study by Daniel Mills and Alice Keskin at the
these shifts, helping them anticipate your return. University of Lincoln, UK, 2008 examined the
behaviour of dogs when left alone by their owners.
Emotional bonding The study found that dogs showed increased activity
Dogs form deep emotional bonds with their human and excitement leading up to the expected return
owners. When you leave, your dog may experience time of their owners. This anticipation was attributed
separation anxiety or stress. They eagerly await your to the dogs’ ability to recognise and predict their
return, and as the time approaches, they might become owners’ routines.

011
SENSE OF TIME

Additionally, a 2017 study by Ross K. Harper and John Social interaction

W. Bradshaw at the University of Bristol, UK, explored Knowing that your dog eagerly awaits your return can
dogs’ circadian rhythms and their association with daily strengthen the bond between you and your pet. Ensure
routines. The research showed that dogs adapt their you greet your dog enthusiastically and show affection
internal clocks to align with their owners’ schedules. when you come home, reinforcing the positive emotional
When owners maintained consistent routines, dogs connection. This interaction can help alleviate any
could better anticipate their return. separation anxiety your dog may experience while you
Another exciting aspect of this phenomenon is the are away.
role of social learning. Dogs are observant animals,
and they can learn from their owners’ behaviour. Training and communication
If a dog witnesses its owner consistently engaging Understanding how dogs perceive time and their ability
in specific activities before leaving or returning to anticipate events can be valuable in training and
home, it begins associating these behaviours with the communication. You can use this knowledge to develop
corresponding events. a stronger bond with your dog and enhance your ability
to teach them new behaviours or commands.
Practical implications Dogs are incredible creatures with a profound
The remarkable ability of dogs to predict their owner’s connection to their human companions. Their
return has practical implications for dog owners. remarkable ability to predict when their owners are
Understanding this phenomenon can help foster a coming home is a testament to their keen perception of
stronger bond between you and your dog and improve time and substantial emotional bonds. The interplay of
their well-being. circadian rhythms, routine recognition, environmental
cues, olfactory recognition, and emotional attachment
Consistency and routine allows dogs to anticipate their owner’s return. This
Maintaining a consistent routine for your dog can unique skill showcases the depth of their understanding
positively impact their overall happiness. Dogs thrive and reinforces the notion that dogs, indeed are “man’s
on predictability and familiarity. If you can stick to a best friend.” Understanding and appreciating this
regular schedule, your dog will become more adept at fascinating aspect of their behaviour can lead to
predicting your arrival, which can help alleviate anxiety even more profound and more fulfilling relationships
and make them feel more secure. between humans and their canine companions.

“Dogs are incredible creatures with a profound

connection to their human companions.”

012
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SKIN ISSUE DEVELOPMENT

014
 SKIN ISSUE DEVELOPMENT

Trisha describes how skin issues can develop

and offer insight into their treatment.

M
any skin issues are more common in some
dog breeds than others due to the natural
conformation of the dog and breeding over
the years to enhance these features. Sadly,
these issues cannot be cured, but they can be
managed to keep your dog as comfortable as
possible. Your dog is a product of their environment; what they
experience, eat, and are exposed to will all have a part to play
in your dog's overall well-being. We must consider their diet,
allergies to external factors like pollens or dust mites, and stress.
Taking a holistic approach and looking at the bigger picture is
the best way forward; we must maintain a good balance for our
dog's lives.
Words: Trisha Heath: Dog Groomer and DAATA-ICDG
qualified in dermatology and cosmetology.

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SKIN ISSUE DEVELOPMENT

INTERTRIGO - SKIN FOLD DERMATITIS

This is where the skin rubs against itself and causes irritation. All these common problems are breed-type related. They are
These are surprisingly common in many breeds, for example, all caused by friction, which results in alopecia, inflammation,
brachycephalic breeds like the French bulldog, where they irritation, and damaged skin, which leads to fungal and
have distinct face folds. The hair growing on those folds then bacterial infections.
grows into the skin on the opposite side, causing further Sadly, a lifelong management plan is needed for these
irritation. The lip folds commonly seen in show cocker breeds to keep them healthy and prevent fungal and bacterial
spaniels and basset hounds, which are constantly wet, infections. Keeping the skin folds clean and dry is essential
softening the skin, causing the structure to rub away easily, for your management. You need to clean the folds with natural
and armpits on dachshunds and shihtzu, where their legs are anti-fungal and anti-bacterial products that won’t harm the
tucked in neatly, the dog has no choice other than to rub its skin, and you need to be gentle; rubbing the skin dry will
legs against their sides every time they move. make things worse. Use an absorbent cloth and dab it dry.

“A lifelong management plan is needed

for these breeds to keep them healthy and
prevent fungal and bacterial infections”

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 SKIN ISSUE DEVELOPMENT

ALOPECIA
Alopecia is when hair is completely missing from where
it would normally grow and shows little sign of regrowth.
This often causes the skin to become dry and brittle. If
left untreated, the skin will thicken, making hair regrowth
even more challenging.
Many things can cause hair loss. The change in
daylight brings on the most common seasonal shedding.
As the days become longer, they undergo a hormone
change that tells them to shed their winter coat and grow
their summer one, and the same in autumn with their
winter coat.
Friction from an ill-fitting harness will rub hair out
of the follicles and intertrigo, where legs constantly rub
against the belly.
Pressure points from always sitting on one leg.
Surgical clipping is a very short clipping that sometimes
grazes the skin; this has a higher chance of causing
alopecia in some breeds than others. Trauma to the hair
follicles is like an injury or burn. Be careful putting bows
in hair; if you pull the hair out by the root with a tight Deep pyoderma in dog
bobble, the hair won’t grow back.
Post-clipping alopecia usually happens after surgery
where there has been a very short clipping of one area;
this very short clipping often comes with a ‘clipper HOT SPOTS
burn’ where the skin has been scrapped and a red, itchy
rash. It’s essential to soothe this rash and keep the skin Hot spots are prevalent. The first signs are often that
clean and hydrated as much as possible. If the dog is a your dog is losing hair in patches or constantly biting or
shedding breed like a labrador or a husky, then the hair scratching an area. Hot spots are small areas of skin that
will be in a cycle, and you have to wait for the anagen are inflamed, sore, itchy, often dry and greasy, and usually,
‘growing’ phase to start again before the hair regrows, hair loss. It’s usually one small patch on an animal, with
keeping the skin supple and hydrated will help. no symptoms elsewhere.
There are many ways of treating alopecia, but it A bacterial infection causes hot spots. There are many
very much depends on your dog’s breed and the cause reasons why this might happen, but the most common
of the problem; speaking to a dog groomer with an is a simple imbalance in the skin or damage to the skin
understanding of dermatology will help. where bacteria can then manifest itself; these types of
infections result in a small hotspot.
Friction from an ill-fitting harness will rub hair out of Hotspots can grow and become a more significant
the follicles and intertrigo, where legs constantly rub issue called pyoderma. Pyodermas can be more serious. It
against the belly.
can be superficial and limit itself to the epidermis, or you
can get deep pyoderma, which affects the dermis. Your
vet should always check these out. If your pet has the
symptoms of a hot spot but over a large area, you must go
to your vet.

“Hotspots can grow

and become a more
significant issue called
pyoderma. Pyodermas
can be more serious.”

017
SKIN ISSUE DEVELOPMENT

German shepherd dog

with allergic rhinitis dermatitis

STRESS INJURY
Stress is part of everyone’s daily lives. When dogs are We all know a pulled muscle can be painful; it can cause
stressed, they release a hormone called cortisol. This swelling and heat in the skin. This will stretch the fibres in
hormone is a good thing; it helps the dogs focus, stay the dermis, adding strain to the hair follicles and sebaceous
calm, and be in control. For example, athletes use this glands, and ultimately can show a visible result in the dog’s
hormone when competing for high performance. So, in coat. Often, the hair is standing up taller and straighter than
small, short-term doses, this is a good thing. However, usual; you may notice a greasy patch in the affected area;
when cortisol floods the body for a long time, it begins if this is a chronic injury, the hair may grow more coarse
to have a harmful effect; it will affect bowel movements, in that area than others. An injury such as a burn or deep
cause urine infections, create intolerances to foods and cut can severely damage the hair follicles, and sometimes
pollens, and, of course, affect the skin. In my salon, I can the follicles can’t recover from this and die, leaving a
often tell if something is going on at home when I see a permanent scar where no hair can grow; sometimes, it
stressed coat. I mention it to the owner, and they will say, affects melanin production, and the hair will change colour.
‘Oh, we are in the middle of moving house’ or ‘I’ve just
started a new job with a different shift pattern.’
Cortisol is also released when the dog is excited, so
if you’ve had a weekend of lots of agility training or have POOR DIET
been looking after a friend’s dog. They have both had too
much play time; you may notice a change in your dog’s Like humans, dogs have many different allergies and
eating habits or bowel movements; again, if this extreme sensitivities regarding food. However, this doesn’t mean
excitement lasts over a long period, it will ultimately come your dog will only have a skin issue if he has an allergy;
out in the skin. your dog also needs a balanced diet.
Suppose your dog has food allergies but is easily Meeting your dog’s nutritional needs is essential for
stressed; buying hypoallergenic food isn’t enough. the skin because a dog’s skin health is closely linked to its
Consider changing your management to reduce stress diet. Every dog’s dietary needs differ, and you must feed
and strengthen his digestive system, helping him cope your dog appropriately. A balanced and nutritious diet
with the allergies. provides the essential nutrients, such as protein, essential
fatty acids, vitamins, and minerals, needed for the skin to
“Consider changing form a strong and healthy barrier against external irritants
and allergens. Nutrients like protein, zinc, vitamin C, and

your management to vitamin A are crucial in skin cell regeneration, repair, and
turnover. Nutrients like omega-3 fatty acids, antioxidants,
and prebiotics can help control inflammation and support
reduce stress” the immune system.

018
 SKIN ISSUE DEVELOPMENT

“Meeting your dog’s nutritional needs is essential for the skin

because a dog’s skin health is closely linked to its diet.”
019
SKIN ISSUE DEVELOPMENT

POOR GROOMING MANAGEMENT

Depending on the breed of our dogs, some breeds need are a pool of blood caused by broken capillaries and blood
more management than others, depending on their coat vessels; this is a direct result of the strain and pressure
type. Labradors and smooth-coated jack russels are easy caused by matts. The ear leathers are very thin, and as hair
to maintain. They don’t get matted, they don’t have skin grows on every part of the ear as it mats, pulling the skin as
folds, and they shed their fur quickly (often constantly!). tight as possible in every direction, it causes severe internal
Sometimes, when these breeds age and their hormones bruising to the ear; once the mats are clipped off the blood
change, they struggle to shed their fur. Some regular rushes back into the ear, and the ear will start to swell after
brushing and bathing will help them feel better. grooming and be very painful for your dog. Also, keeping
As mentioned, intertrigo is very common, and due to the the skin and hair clean on a matted dog is impossible. So, if
breeding, you can only help maintain the condition with good you have a dog breed with a coat type like this, contact your
management. local dog groomer, book for regular professional grooming,
You may have an anagen coat type, which means hair and ask for help on brushing techniques, advice on what
that grows constantly but doesn’t shed. This coat type needs brush to buy, and advice on regular maintenance. Remember
regular brushing and trimming; depending on how well humanity over vanity! Fluffy, cute dogs look adorable, but it’s
you can maintain your dog between visits to a professional only fair for your dog to keep them like that if you can keep
groomer and how well your dog copes with being groomed, them matt-free.
you can keep them as fluffy as you like or as short as you Some dogs struggle to clean themselves; sometimes, this
like! If you don’t maintain the coat regularly, they will quickly is because of their conformation; they just can’t reach certain
become matted. With the woolly anagen type, like the parts of their body to keep themselves clean; this is where
wonderful cockapoo, they can become matted on the skin, you come in to help maintain clean, happy, healthy skin.
and the last inch of hair looks fine. When you stroke them, the Remember the skin type we discussed; use natural, gentle,
mats feel like skin, so it is often a shock for owners when the subtle products for your dog.
dog groomer has shaved them short! It’s important not to let So there are some explanations of skin issues and
your dog get matted; as stated about the skin stretching and potential causes; as I’m sure you know, the skin is a complex
moving, the matted hair pulls the skin tight in all directions structure, and just buying a hypoallergenic shampoo may not
and prevents this flexibility, making your dog uncomfortable be the answer. Consider the skin type. Refer to my feature in
and sore. It is the reason once dogs start to mat, they don’t the previous issue to help you identify your dog’s skin type.
like to be brushed; if you persist with ‘brushing out matts,‘ If so, look for natural products to suit that skin type. Does
you WILL hurt your dog, and understandably, they will fear your dog have intertrigo? Speak to your dog groomer for help
being groomed. Severe mats can also add extreme pressure managing this in a way that works for your dog’s skin. Always
to the skin and limit blood circulation. The most common speak to your vet and be sure there are no underlying causes
issue seen with this is a hematoma in the ears. Heamatomes first. Then, you can consider changing your management.

“I’m sure you know, the skin is a complex structure”

At Berries and Leaves, we offer skincare consultations
where you fill in a questionnaire and then have a
consultation about different management for your pet,
dog, cat, or horse; you will be given suitable advice for
your dog's breed, coat and skin type and grooming
management. We also have a digital quiz to help you
understand your pet's skin type.
We are big fans of natural products and feel nature
can provide everything we need. All our products are
made from 100% natural ingredients, carefully selected
to work this skin type and to be gentle when cleaning,
rising off, and supporting the skin. We have a range of
shampoos that will be the best for your pet's skin type,
all low foaming and easy to rinse out; all the plant
properties chosen are designed to work with that skin
type to help restore and repair skin and hair. We have
skin masks that clean and purify the skin while working
their anti-bacterial and anti-fungal magic and skin
recovery balms to protect and recover the skin.

020
LOSING WEIGHT, THE NATURAL WAY

Words: Alison Frost, ProDog Raw Canine

Nutritionist and Head of Product Development

Losing weight,
the natural way
We share a certified canine nutritionist's advice
on how to help your dog lose weight naturally.

unhealthy treats) and those that don’t get enough

T
he obesity phenomenon amongst dogs is
at an all-time high, with current statistics exercise are most at risk; these lifestyle habits are the
showing that as many as 50% of dogs fastest ways to pack on the pounds. It’s not healthy
are overweight. There are many reasons for dogs to carry excess weight, which is why it
for this, with diet being chief among wreaks havoc on their bodies in many ways.
them. Thankfully, this condition is often
correctable with a little effort on the human’s part. How to Know if Your Dog is Overweight
This starts with feeding them a species- Aside from what the scale says, there are other ways
appropriate, whole-food diet with the energy and to determine if your dog needs to lose a few pounds.
nutrients required to live their healthiest, happiest While weighing them is still essential, you can also
lives. Maintaining a healthy weight is a large part tell if they exceed their recommended weight using
of the wellbeing equation, so in my role as the lead Body Condition Scoring.
nutritionist for ProDog Raw, helping our customers’ Body Condition Scoring essentially judges
dogs achieve this is an integral part of my work. the condition of a dog’s body by their physical
appearance, though it’s slightly more complicated
The Importance of Weight Management than that. I’ve provided a more detailed description
for Dogs in the five-step process below.
Keeping your dog at a healthy weight is vital for
their overall health and quality of life. Excess weight Physical Symptoms Overweight Dogs
on their bones and joints can be responsible for all Experience
sorts of health issues and can even contribute to a It may be evident with very overweight dogs that they
shortened lifespan if left unchecked. need to shed some pounds, but it’s not always clear
Dogs fed high-carb, low-protein diets (or lots of when they are only slightly over their ideal weight,

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 LOSING WEIGHT, THE NATURAL WAY

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LOSING WEIGHT, THE NATURAL WAY

especially as you see them daily. Other symptoms to Gut health issues, joint and bone problems, changes
keep an eye out for which may indicate your dog is in energy and mood, diabetes, endocrine (hormone)
carrying a few extra pounds: system disorders, and heart disease can all be a result
 Walking slower than usual or gradually becoming of excessive weight in dogs. This is why I recommend,
reluctant to go for walks if possible, a raw meat-based diet to my clients: natural,
 Panting excessively or without cause (not hot or species-appropriate ingredients provide the essential
recently exercised) nutrients that dogs need to maintain a healthy weight
 An otherwise healthy dog appearing tired or lethargic and nourish their bodies with biologically suited fuel to
for no apparent reason help them stay healthy and active.
 Needing assistance getting into cars, up and down
stairs, or up on furniture, especially if they managed Five Steps to Helping Your Dog Lose
fine in the past Weight
 Reluctance to chase toys or play as they once did 1. Score Their Body Condition
 Seeming less energetic in general, displaying less Body Condition Scoring is a helpful way to determine
enthusiasm in daily life whether a dog’s weight is healthy for them. An easy
If any of these apply to your dog, visiting your vet is a way to do this at home is to look at your dog closely
good idea. Once you’ve ruled out any underlying health from the sides and above. You should be able to notice
issues, a certified canine nutritionist can help assess an obvious waist, and their belly should not protrude
their diet and recommend the most beneficial changes sideways or hang down more than a little.
to assist them in getting back to a healthy weight. Your dog’s ribs, hips, and pelvis should be easily felt
but not seen. There should be a thin layer of fat, but not
How Harmful Excess Weight Can Be to so much that it prevents you from locating these skeletal
Dogs (Even a Little) structures easily.
Whilst a little excess weight can be easier to correct, it’s A canine nutritionist or your vet can provide a more
also easier to ignore and, therefore, can quickly become accurate Body Condition Score if you’re unsure; this
a bigger problem. Any extra weight on your dog is a involves a numerical scale in which your dog should
potential health risk, as their bodies are ideally fall somewhere in the middle. Each dog will
forced to compensate for the additional differ slightly depending on weight, size, breed, and
load they’re carrying around. developmental stage.

“Once you’ve ruled out any underlying

health issues, a certified canine
nutritionist can help assess their diet”

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 LOSING WEIGHT, THE NATURAL WAY

2. Take a Good Look at Their Diet issues, and even behaviour changes.
As nutrition is the backbone of canine health, weight Weight loss becomes more achievable with the
maintenance is also critical. Feeding dogs high-carb, appropriate diet and recommended exercise for your
high-starch diets is essentially providing them additional dog’s age, breed, and overall health. Remember to start
sugars, as this is how these ingredients ultimately break slowly if they’re significantly overweight, as too much
down. Sugars are not necessary for dogs; they’re activity will add stress to their overtaxed bones and
harmful and create extra fat where it doesn’t belong. joints, doing more harm than good in the early stages.
Conversely, a raw, species-appropriate diet is
naturally low in carbohydrates, which leaves more 4. Keep Track of Their Progress
room for the essential nutrients that dogs need for Keeping an eye on your dog’s progress will help you in
overall health, including maintaining a healthy weight. a few ways. You’ll be aware of how well their weight
Suppose your dog is already eating a natural, raw
diet and carrying excess weight. In that case, a
complete diet review can help determine portion
control, treat changes and potential exercise
modifications to help your dog shed their
extra pounds.

3. Help Them to be More Active

Many dogs simply need more of the correct,
appropriate exercise to burn off calories and
improve strength and stamina. All
dogs benefit from physical and
mental activity to remain healthy.
A lack of exercise can lead to
weight gain, boredom, health

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LOSING WEIGHT, THE NATURAL WAY

loss is going (or not), which allows you to make any healthier, happier versions of themselves, and owners
necessary changes to their health plan. are overjoyed to see how much better their dogs feel
Weighing them every couple of weeks to see if due to their weight loss.
they’re losing weight at the appropriate speed. Tracking More energy, better health, happier mood, and
progress is also helpful for the humans involved: it improved behaviour are all rewards dogs can experience
allows you to see how much you’re helping your dog when they achieve a healthy weight. Feeding them a
and encourages you to stay positive. balanced, natural diet of fresh, whole foods
provides them with the building blocks
5. Stay Positive (and Don’t Panic!) required for optimal health. These
It’s easy to panic when learning rewards affect canines and humans,
about how excess weight can as happier dogs usually equal
harm dogs’ health, especially happier people!
if your dog isn’t shedding the
extra weight quickly. However, Help Your Dog Lose
staying positive and remaining Weight Naturally
calm throughout will allow you to I believe that every dog owner
make clearer decisions regarding wants the absolute best for their
their wellbeing during this process. dog. In my experience, keeping
If in doubt, ask for help from an dogs at a healthy weight is far more
accredited canine nutritionist. achievable when they’re fed the diet that
nature intended for them.
The Rewards of Canine Weight Loss Not only do they receive the nutrients they need
One of the rewarding parts of my work at ProDog is to achieve optimal health, but they also have the energy
running our online weight loss programme, The Lean they need to remain active. Combining a biologically
Dog Squad. I’ve enjoyed seeing fantastic weight loss suited diet, appropriate exercise, tailored supplements,
results with clients’ dogs. and lots of love from their humans contribute to dogs
Helping people become their dogs’ weight loss coach living healthy, happy lives.
is a rewarding and satisfying experience. Dogs return to

“More energy, better health, happier mood, and

improved behaviour are all rewards dogs can
experience when they achieve a healthy weight.”

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SAFE PLAY

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 SAFE PLAY

Words: Nia Ball

TO PLAY OR TO
PLAY SAFELY
Nia offers her expert insight into how we can
manage the intensity of the games dogs play.

W
e all love playing and having fun with
our lovely dogs, and as owners, we also
get a lot of pleasure from watching
them running around and playing with
each other. Interactive play has so many
benefits – it increases the bond between
you and your pet, it’s mentally stimulating, physically tiring
and helps with training - and is, well, just plain good fun
for all involved! So… what’s the problem? How careful do
we need to be that our dogs don’t overdo it to the extent
that they are at risk of sustaining muscular injuries?
Don’t worry, we can (and must) carry on playing!
We just need to be aware of the risks and appropriately
manage the intensity of our games on our dog’s behalf.
Bluntly put, playing too roughly causes injuries.

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SAFE PLAY

Safe play. Unsafe play.

Head and neck in alignment with spine and four feet staying Neck being pulled at a sharp angle to the rest of the spine,
on the ground. and front feet beginning to be lifted off the ground.

“Keep the session short. Limit the length of tugs to 10-

20 seconds, and just do a few tugs per play session.”
Tuggy Games Strength
Well-managed tug-of-war games are great for your dog, Remember that your dog is weaker than you; be gentle,
and some love to play it far more than playing fetch. and don’t pull harder than the dog does. If you play
If dogs were playing tuggy against each other, they with a small dog, you may not feel like you are tugging
would be more closely matched in terms of strength much. Avoid yanking or pulling the toy hard; instead,
than a dog is usually matched against a human, which match your intensity to their size and strength. Also,
can cause problems. Because the dog is (usually) weaker avoid dragging your dog around by the toy or hanging
than you, they can pull too hard and be too them in the air! Please don’t hold on to the
vigorous, especially in the excitement of toy for extended periods; instead, drop
the game if they are a bit toy-crazy. it and encourage your dog to bring
Over-exertion and prolonged it back to you. An added benefit
tugging against an owner much of playing the game this way
stronger than the dog can is that letting your dog ‘win’
cause damage to the muscles the tug shows them that
and other soft tissues in the playing with you is fun and
neck. If neck muscles become rewarding, and they can
tight, shortened and sore, this choose to bring it back to you
can, in turn, restrict the dog’s to carry on playing, building
overall movement day-to-day, their confidence and the bond
as they need to be able to drop between you.
their head to drive from their
hindquarters effectively. Alignment
So, we just need to manage our Remember that your dog is on a
games appropriately for the size and lower level than you. Tug on your dog’s
strength of our dogs. In the excitement of level so that your dog’s back and neck stay in
the game, they can’t tell when they are overdoing it, a straight line and their neck is not bent upwards to your
and we need to look out for them. level. The dog may shake the toy from side to side – be
You can keep tuggy games fun AND safe by led by them while keeping the motions as smooth and
considering the following three aspects from your flowing as possible. Avoid pulling the toy up and down,
dog’s point of view: the strength they are exerting, though, as this is an unnatural movement for the dog,
the alignment of their body, and the time they which causes stress to the neck and spine. The idea is to
spend playing. keep the dog level in a ‘neutral spine’ position to avoid

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 SAFE PLAY

excess stresses on the skeleton and muscles and keep all movements again cause micro-injuries that accumulate
their feet on the ground. If your dog already has known slowly over time, weakening the muscles and increasing
neck issues or a condition such as intervertebral disc susceptibility to injury, should an incident occur, such
disease or arthritis, be especially gentle. as the dogs crashing into each other.
Some simple adjustments can reduce the risks
Time involved, and again, strength and timing should be
Keep the session short. Limit the length of tugs to 10- considered for chase games. Also, giving your dog
20 seconds, and just do a few tugs per play session. a chance to warm up before launching into vigorous
Although dogs may not show obvious discomfort activity is essential. These adjustments are helpful
at the time, repeated abnormal stresses can for dogs of any age, but especially so for
cause repetitive strain injuries and over those who may be more vulnerable, such
time, these weaken the soft tissues as puppies, senior dogs, dogs with
supporting the dog’s vertebrae in musculoskeletal conditions (.e.g.
its neck and spine. This can leave arthritis), dogs who have previously
the dog more susceptible to injury sustained an injury, and dogs with
if it is involved in a subsequent predispositions to weaknesses due
incident such as a collision. to their conformation (e.g. long-
Thinking about these three backed dogs such as Dachshunds).
aspects and making the game as
comfortable as possible for them will Strength
also increase your dog’s enjoyment. Be mindful of the size and strength of
the other dogs that your dog plays with.
Chase Games Smaller dogs sometimes need protection
We enjoy watching dogs who love to play with from larger dogs. Stop the play if the bigger and
their canine friends running and chasing each other stronger dog is faster or more boisterous. Equally, little
outside, but unfortunately chase games between dogs dogs can sometimes run rings around larger dogs,
can also end in injury. The issues are similar to those encouraging the bigger dog to turn more sharply and
outlined in the earlier article in this series about ball more tightly than it would otherwise. Small dogs can
throwing: the fast acceleration, uncontrolled sharp also disappear under smaller objects.
turns and abrupt stops. Chase games can often start
suddenly, and the explosive start places significant stress Timing
on the muscles of the hind legs, which can be easily Keep sessions short – quality is better than quantity!
overstretched, especially when cold. Sharp turns and Many dogs don’t know when to stop and may get
braking place a lot of pressure on the front legs. Such overstimulated, leading to losing control. Interrupting

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SAFE PLAY

the chase game regularly with a recall or fun focus

game can help keep the rough play at a safe level and
maintain a safer pace.

Warming up
A proper warm-up before fast games gets blood and
oxygen flowing through the body and warming up
muscles, allowing your dog to be better prepared for
vigorous exercise. A fast-paced walk for about 5 minutes
before fast running begins means the dog’s muscles are
Safe play. more able to contract, and their limbs flex and extend
Dogs of similar size playing together at a leisurely pace on safely than when they are cold.
suitable ground. Additionally, ensuring that play occurs on non-slip
surfaces such as grass and checking the ground for holes
can prevent serious injury. Chasing and cornering on
a loose or slippy surface increases the risk of injury.
Older dogs with limited mobility or unstable joints are
likelier to sustain an injury from slipping. If playing
in the house, remember that dogs’ paws cannot grip
surfaces such as shiny linoleum, laminate, tiles or
hardwood floors.

Unsafe play. Playing Safely with Your Dog

Dogs of very different weights and speeds chasing one So, in conclusion, when you’ve finished reading the rest
another can be risky – interrupting them with other of this magazine, I encourage you to get out there and
games can help maintain a safe pace. have fun playing safely with your dog! They will thank
you for it – today and in the future!

“I encourage you to get out there and

have fun playing safely with your dog!”
About the Author

Nia is a member of the Canine Massage Guild. She runs

Pentland Canine Massage, based in Balerno on the outskirts
of Edinburgh, Scotland. You can find out more about Nia at
www.pentlandcaninemassage.co.uk.

About the Canine Massage Guild

After ten years, the Canine Massage Guild continues to lead

the way with a network of highly skilled Clinical Canine
Massage Therapists based around the country. We specialise
in soft tissue rehabilitation and provide chronic pain
management for orthopaedic conditions.
In clinical trials with Winchester University, which studied
the efficacy of the Lenton Method®, 95% of dogs responded
positively to clinical canine massage therapy, as published
in ‘Vet Record’ by the British Veterinary Association. Scan
the QR code for the clinical trial results.
Providing results you can see and your
dog can feel! Find your local Canine
Massage Guild therapist:
www.k9-massageguild.co.uk/
therapistregister/

032
TOP RAW FEEDING TIPS

The team from the ever-growing popular Facebook group Raw Feeding for
Dogs Made Simple UK share their top tips for feeding your dog a raw diet.

S
witching your dog to a raw diet can a Facebook group like Raw Feeding for Dogs
seem daunting; the Raw Feeding Made Simple (UK) can give you access to a
for Dogs Made Simple (UK) team team of fully supported individuals to provide
can understand this completely; members with the absolute best care possible.
we felt the same ourselves at first! Another way to find great support &
So, to whet your appetite and advice is to shop locally. Raw suppliers can be
help diminish some of the most common found up and down the country, and we have
concerns with raw feeding, here are our top an interactive Supplier/Retailers map on our
tips for Raw Feeding Success: website to help you source your dog’s food as
locally as possible.
Find Support
This is possibly the biggest advice we can Food storage
ever give to anyone. Science is forever When buying raw food, you can buy in bulk
evolving, so using tools such as our group or or smaller amounts, too, so it can suit every
website can help ensure you access the most budget, situation & freezer. In fact, many raw
up-to-date raw feeding information. Joining feeders only use one drawer in the freezer to

Words: Keisha, Nicola & Vic from Raw Feeding for Dogs Made Simple (UK)

034
 TOP RAW FEEDING TIPS

035
TOP RAW FEEDING TIPS

feed their dog a raw diet. health, we can help to create healthier dogs. There are
Each day, simply take the food out of the freezer and a few aspects we recommend:
pop it into the bottom of your fridge like any meat for First three weeks of raw, then as and when stools
humans. If you don’t use a whole packet in a day, you require support - Warriorbullz Marshmallow Root,
can simply pop any leftovers into a ziplock bag or clip- Dorwest Herbs Tree Barks or Proflax Tummy Tastic
lock container and store it for up to three days after the (depending on the age of the dog)
defrosting has been done. Another great tip for those We recommend using one of these every day
short on freezer space is to partially defrost food in during the first three weeks of raw feeding (known as
bulk in the bottom of the fridge, then portion it up and a transition), as this will help to support a pup or dog
refreeze it in portioned sandwich bags. during this dietary change, and these products can
begin the healing process where gut health has been
DEFRA disrupted. For this reason, we also recommend keeping
DEFRA (Department for Environment, Food and one of these products in the home for those “just in
Rural Affairs) is a government department responsible case” instances and taking it with you if you go on
for environmental protection, agriculture, and food. holiday/travelling with your dog.
This means that by feeding DEFRA licensed raw pet
food, they go through certain product testing and
have set requirements to meet in terms of quality and Bone Broth
standards. On our website, www.rffdmsuk.co.uk, we
have a link in the useful tools menu that will take you The benefits of bone broth are too good not to feed every day:
to our interactive supplier/retailer map - allowing you  Supports digestive health
to find a local raw pet food supplier - we only include  Soothes upset stomach
suppliers in our map who stock foods that DEFRA  Supports joint health
licensed manufacturers produce.  Provides hydration & nutrients during illness
 Boosts the immune system
Gut Support  Can help reduce allergy symptoms
We are focused on gut health at Raw Feeding for Dogs  Helps to detox the liver
Made Simple (UK). An unhealthy gut is responsible for  It can help tempt fussy eaters
so many issues we see in dogs, so by focusing on gut

036
 TOP RAW FEEDING TIPS

Want to feed raw and not sure what to feed?

Start with light single protein like chicken or turkey. At
Raw Feeding for Dogs Made Simple (UK), we are big
believers in keeping it simple for the first three weeks;
then, you can begin to add additional aspects like fruits
and vegetables.
If you feed lots of different aspects like different
fruits and vegetables, it can become challenging to
identify the cause should your dog become itchy, yeasty
or have an upset stomach.
By keeping to the 801010 range, you can be sure
your dog is getting all the basics, and you are not
overloading their body with new foods.
We recommend following a set process so that
your dog is given time to adjust to their new diet;
our entire process can be found on our website,
www.rffdmsuk.co.uk, in our Blogs section.
Most dogs can ditch their old diet entirely the night
before they start their raw journey.

How to feed raw

Feeding raw is not as complicated as many think.
Should you choose to, you can feed pre-made complete
raw food, as it already has fruits, vegetables and some
herbs and seeds.

“Feeding raw is not

as complicated as
many think.”
This can mean you simply defrost the food, open the
food, serve the food! It’s as easy as feeding a canned food!

Feed the dog in front of you

Did you know that many vets now use Body Condition
scoring as a more accurate health measure than
weight? This means that an assessment of the
waist, the visibility of the ribs, and the tuck
are carried out, and a score is applied.
Raw Feeding for Dogs Made
Simple (UK) uses a 9-scale body
condition chart, so the aim is for
dogs to be a five on the chart,
although some breeds will be
more of a four or six.
When it comes to feeding a
dog, we have a simple calculator to
figure out the feeding allowance,
and we recommend using this as
a base and adjusting it with slightly
more food if your dog is lower on the
body condition chart or slightly less
food if your dog is higher on the chart.
Our website even includes a calculator
that can tell you how many packets of food
TOP RAW FEEDING TIPS

“After those first few weeks of feeding single

protein minces, we recommend gradually
adding more and more variety to the diet.
Variety can be found in various items”
038
 TOP RAW FEEDING TIPS

you will need for the first three weeks of feeding raw! chunky minces, freeflow minces, DIY chunks with raw
meaty bones), from fruits and vegetables to changing up
Poo Patrol feeding surfaces to include enrichment toys, lick mats
Raw feeding is widely associated with dogs having - the world is your oyster and there truly are plenty of
smaller and less smelly stools. ways to find.
This is because stools are a waste product of the
body, so the bigger the stool passed, the more unusable What to do if your vet is not pro-raw
produce was fed. The ideal stool is small but passed Sadly, many vets will only see a dog when it is
without straining and can be picked up. unwell, so they have reservations about raw
It is common for raw-fed dog stools feeding. This stems from them treating
to turn whiter the longer they are left dogs who have been fed poorly made
in the sun, so do not panic if this raw diets, such as just being given
happens. However, if your dog is some beef mince every day for life
passing white stool, or their stool is - of course, this would be very bad
hard or crumbly, this is a sign that for any animal as there is no variety
they need some boneless meat to and many lacking components.
dilute the bone content until things On top of this, raw produce
return to a normal brown colour. from supermarkets or butchers is
Our website has a full chart of not tested as extensively as raw pet
different stools, which can be found in food sold by manufacturers with a
our blog titled Out the Rear End! DEFRA licence.
If your vet is anti-raw, do not shy away
Variety is the spice of life from them. The best way to help improve this is
After those first few weeks of feeding single protein to help support vets’ learning. This can be done by
minces, we recommend gradually adding more and becoming a Supporter of The Raw Feeding Veterinary
more variety to the diet. Society (RFVS) for a small monthly fee. You can also
Variety can be found in various items from fish types access a lot of extra resources this way, too, whilst
(e.g. sardines, sprats, herring, mackerel) to egg types (e.g. knowing that you are helping to educate the vets of the
quail, chicken, duck, goose), from proteins (red meats, world on raw and fresh feeding. Our helpful links on
white meats, game meats) to textures (smooth minces, the website include links to the RFVS.

039
TOP RAW FEEDING TIPS

“Seeing so many pet parents looking to

feed their dogs a raw diet is fantastic.”
Ongoing information, support & advice experiencing these same issues - and we wanted to help
Our final tip for success with raw feeding is to join us in bust the myths, remove the fear, and share our passion!
our Facebook group for help & support and check out In December 2020, we launched the Facebook
our website for tips, generalised advice and more: group Raw Feeding for Dogs Made Simple (UK) and
 Facebook: Raw Feeding for Dogs Made Simple (UK) spent the first 12 months researching and writing guides
 Website: www.rffdmsuk.co.uk for the group based on what members most commonly
asked questions. In the first year, the group reached
Who is Raw Feeding for Dogs Made Simple 3500 members. We got 10,000 members a year later,
(UK) and this year, we are on track to reach 22,000. Seeing
When we first started raw feeding, we found so much so many pet parents looking to feed their dogs a raw
conflicting advice that we often felt overwhelmed and diet is fantastic.
unsure about what was best, so we spent most of our As not everyone has a Facebook account, we have
free time studying and researching to learn as much launched our website this year, www.rffdmsuk.co.uk,
as possible. which includes all of our guides from the group in the
A chance meeting on Instagram of Keisha, Nicola & form of blogs and lots of valuable tools and links.
Vic led to us all realising that all three of us were doing The website is ever-evolving, so please check back on
all this work in the background to help ourselves, so it regularly, as there is much more exciting content
this meant there was a strong chance that others were to come.

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UNDERSTANDING ALLERGIES

042
 UNDERSTANDING ALLERGIES

Words: Primrose Moss: Small Animal Veterinary Surgeon

Part Three
In the last of this series, we’ll look at how
we manage allergic skin disease through
medications and immunotherapy.

A
llergic skin disease in dogs is the topic of much
research due to its prevalence and the extent
to which it can affect dogs’ lives. As a result,
there are several different treatment options
available. These treatments typically follow a
pattern – the more robust (and more effective)
they are, generally the more side effects they cause.

Steroids
Steroids (like prednisolone) are a mainstay of treatment
for many cases of allergic skin disease. They’ve been
around for a long time and are very effective. Oral
steroids can rapidly damp down inflammation during
acute flare-ups, and they are a long-term option for some
patients. Importantly, they’re a lot cheaper than some of
the available newer medications. However, steroids have
a range of side effects. In the short term, they usually

043
UNDERSTANDING ALLERGIES

“Steroid sprays for the paws and ear drops

can be helpful in some patients if the
inflammation is relatively localised.”
cause increased appetite, thirst and urination and, in than steroids. It’s relatively rarely used nowadays due to
some dogs, can alter behaviour. In the long term, they the other medications available.
can cause weight gain, skin changes including thinning More commonly, vets will recommend trialling a
skin and poorer coat, increased infections and poorer medication like lokivetmab (Cytopoint) or oclacitinib
wound healing, muscle wastage, diabetes and more. (Apoquel) for long-term use. But how do these work?
If your dog is on long-term steroids, working with These newer-generation drugs are a little different to
your vet to taper them down to the lowest the anti-inflammatory/immunosuppressive
effective dose to minimise these effects medications used previously.
is essential. Cytopoint is a monthly injection of
One way of minimising the antibodies to a specific inflammatory
systemic effects of steroids is to molecule, IL-31, identified as a
apply them topically. While a critical part of the ‘itch’ pathway.
small amount is absorbed, the It’s injected like a vaccine under
systemic dose is significantly the skin, and side effects are rare.
lower than oral medication. While symptoms usually begin
Steroid sprays for the paws and to improve rapidly, within a few
ear drops can be helpful in some days, it can take two doses for the
patients if the inflammation is full effect to be seen.
relatively localised. Apoquel is an oral tablet, usually
Because of the side effects associated taken daily with an initial two-week
with steroids, a range of other medications period of twice daily dosing. It’s an inhibitor
have been used to manage allergic skin disease. One of a specific enzyme in the itching pathway, so cytopoint
of these is ciclosporin (Atopica), which, like steroids, is much more targeted than steroids with fewer side
acts as an anti-inflammatory at lower doses and an effects. It usually takes effect rapidly, within 24 hours,
immunosuppressive at high doses. Again, it’s associated and can be used alone or alongside medications like
with a range of side effects but can be better tolerated Cytopoint. Side effects from Apoquel are rare but may

044
 UNDERSTANDING ALLERGIES

include changes in blood cell counts, so regular (usually antihistamines, usually alongside other treatments.
yearly) blood tests are recommended during treatment.
There is also some limited evidence that Apoquel may Immunotherapy
slightly increase the risk of infections and cancer due to Immunotherapy is a very different treatment for
its effects on the immune system; however, this minimal environmental allergies (unfortunately, it doesn’t
risk is often greatly outweighed by the vast improvement treat food allergies). Unlike traditional medication,
in quality of life seen in many dogs. immunotherapy aims to desensitise the immune system
You may be wondering, if Apoquel and gradually. The end goal is for the immune
Cytopoint are so similar, how do we system to tolerate the allergens it has
choose between them? The answer is previously reacted inappropriately.
that it depends on which a specific It’s reportedly one of the most
dog will tolerate best and how well successful options to treat allergic
they seem to respond – although skin disease – and it can be
they typically have similar life-changing for some dogs,
efficacy, occasionally, a dog does potentially eliminating the
well with one and not the other. need for other medications.
Age is also a factor; Cytopoint However, it’s important to note
is safe to use at any age, whereas that immunotherapy can be
Apoquel is only licensed for dogs expensive, and not all dogs will
over 12 months. While the two respond well – an anecdotal rule
can be safely given together, this of thumb is that around a third of
doesn’t generally improve symptoms dogs experience a large improvement
more than using one alone. in their symptoms, one-third a slight
You may be wondering where antihistamines improvement, and one-third no change.
are on this list – after all, they’re one of the most Improvement may also take some time – it may take up
commonly used medications for allergies in humans. to a year to see a significant difference – and treatment
Antihistamines like chlorphenamine can be used in will usually need to continue for life.
dogs, but there’s minimal evidence for their effects So how does it work? Once environmental allergies
on allergic skin disease. For most dogs, however, side have been diagnosed, the next step is identifying
effects are generally limited to sleepiness – so it may be allergens corresponding to high antibody levels in a dog’s
worth discussing with your vet whether it’s worth trying blood. If high levels of antibodies are present against

045
UNDERSTANDING ALLERGIES

“A laboratory analyses blood samples, and the

results can then be used to order immunotherapy
based on the most likely allergens.”
an allergen, it’s more likely this is one of the allergens know I get them!) – but sadly, these results are generally
causing skin problems. Two methods exist to identify meaningless. Some owners report good results after
these allergens: intradermal skin testing (IDST) and a avoiding a said allergen, but this is almost certainly a
blood test. IDST is a more involved process whereby coincidence as some allergens are relatively common,
numerous small areas of skin are exposed to various and the reports frequently list many possible triggers.
different allergens; it is sometimes used, especially at If you’re tempted by one of these tests, it’s worth
referral centres, but blood tests are more common and discussing it with your vet first.
simpler. Before testing, you may need to stop giving
medications like steroids, as these could affect the Conclusion
results. A laboratory analyses blood samples, and the Allergic skin disease may not be curable, but it can be
results can then be used to order immunotherapy based managed increasingly effectively as further research
on the most likely allergens. and medications develop. As a dog owner, it can
The immunotherapy treatment itself consists of be hard to fully understand the options available for
injections given subcutaneously (under the skin), like a managing this tricky condition – and more often than
vaccine. How frequently a dog requires these injections not, it takes trial and error and a combination of home
depends on the individual case – various dosing care and treatments to manage it effectively. While
protocols exist – but often starts off more frequently this article attempts to shed some light, it’s worth
before tapering down. Notably, the process is staged, discussing your dog’s specific case with your vet;
initially with a lower ‘dose’ of allergen, gradually combining your vet’s knowledge of allergies
increasing to a higher dose over time. with understanding your dog’s unique case is
You may occasionally see adverts for fur or saliva the best way to keep them as healthy and
tests that guarantee they will identify a dog’s allergens (I happy as possible.

046
The essential canine
FIRST AID PULL OUT BY EDITION DOG MAGAZINE

This guide is INCLUDES:

not a substitute for
Veterinary care & a
INSIDE: Causes & symptoms
visit to a vet will be
required for diagnosis
& treatment.
LAMENESS Neurological disorders
Developmental
disorders

Words: Edition Dog Magazine

FIRST AID PULL OUT

“It’s crucial to consult with a veterinarian for an

accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment plan
for your dog’s specific condition.”
Causes of Canine Lameness:  Changes in Behaviour: Irritability, lethargy, or
 Injury or Trauma: Sprains, strains, fractures, or mood changes.
dislocations can lead to lameness.
 Orthopaedic Conditions: Hip dysplasia, osteoarthritis, Treatments for Canine Lameness:
and cruciate ligament injuries can cause lameness.  Rest: Allow the affected limb or joint to rest to
 Musculoskeletal Disorders: Muscle, tendon, or promote healing.
ligament injuries can result in lameness.  Medications: Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs
 Joint Diseases: Conditions like arthritis or (NSAIDs) can alleviate pain and inflammation.
degenerative joint disease can lead to lameness.  Physical Therapy: Exercises and massage to improve
 Infections: Bacterial or viral infections affecting the mobility and strength.
bones or joints can cause lameness.  Weight Management: Maintain a healthy weight to
 Neurological Issues: Disorders affecting the nervous reduce stress on joints.
system can result in gait abnormalities.  Surgery: In cases of severe injuries or certain
 Developmental Disorders: Some breeds are orthopaedic conditions, surgical intervention may be
predisposed to conditions like osteochondritis dissecans necessary.
(OCD).  Joint Supplements: Nutritional supplements like
glucosamine and chondroitin may support joint health.
Symptoms of Canine Lameness:  Anti-Inflammatory Injections: Corticosteroid
 Limping: Obvious favouring of one or more limbs. injections can be administered for localized
 Change in Gait: Altered walking or running patterns. inflammation.
 Reluctance to Move: Reluctance to jump, climb  Red Light Therapy: Red light therapy may promote
stairs, or engage in regular activities. tissue healing and reduce inflammation.
 Swelling: Swollen joints or muscles. It’s crucial to consult with a veterinarian for an
 Pain or Discomfort: Vocalization, flinching, or signs accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment plan for
of pain when the affected area is touched. your dog’s specific condition.

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 FIRST AID PULL OUT

NEUROLOGICAL DISORDERS
Neurological disorders in dogs can lead to gait abnormalities, affecting their ability to walk and move normally. Some
common neurological disorders that may result in gait abnormalities include:

DEGENERATIVE MYELOPATHY (DM) tissue damage.

Cause: Progressive degeneration of the spinal cord. Symptoms: Sudden onset of neurological signs, including
Symptoms: Initially, hind limb weakness, dragging of the gait abnormalities, head tilt, and disorientation.
hind feet, and difficulty rising. As the disease progresses, it Diagnosis: Imaging studies and clinical examination.
can lead to complete hind-limb paralysis.
Diagnosis: Typically diagnosed through a combination of Treatment for these conditions varies depending on
clinical signs, ruling out other causes, and genetic testing. the specific disorder. It often involves a combination of
medication, physical therapy, and supportive care. Early
INTERVERTEBRAL DISC DISEASE (IVDD) diagnosis and intervention are crucial for managing
Cause: Herniation or degeneration of the intervertebral neurological disorders in dogs and improving their quality
discs in the spine. of life.
Symptoms: Vary depending on the location of the affected
disc but may include back pain, hind limb weakness, or
paralysis. Gait abnormalities may range from mild to severe.
Diagnosis: Clinical examination, imaging studies (X-rays,
MRI), and sometimes myelography.

EPILEPSY
Cause: Recurrent seizures due to abnormal electrical
activity in the brain.
Symptoms: Seizures can vary in type and severity. During
or after a seizure, dogs may exhibit gait abnormalities,
disorientation, or temporary weakness.
Diagnosis: Based on a history of recurrent seizures and
ruling out other potential causes.

NEUROPATHIES
Cause: Various diseases affecting the peripheral nerves.
Symptoms: Gait abnormalities, weakness, muscle wasting,
and loss of reflexes. It can be acquired or hereditary.
Diagnosis: Nerve conduction studies, electromyography,
and sometimes genetic testing.

CEREBELLAR DISORDERS
Cause: Conditions affecting the cerebellum, a part of the
brain involved in coordination and balance.
Symptoms: Ataxia (lack of coordination), wide-based
stance, and a high-stepping or wobbly gait.
Diagnosis: Clinical signs and neurological examination,
often supported by advanced imaging like MRI.

BRAIN TUMOURS
Cause: Abnormal growth in the brain.
Symptoms: Depending on the location, symptoms can
include changes in behaviour, seizures, circling, and gait
abnormalities.
Diagnosis: Imaging studies (MRI or CT scan) and
sometimes biopsy.

STROKE (CEREBROVASCULAR ACCIDENT)

Cause: Interruption of blood supply to the brain, leading to

051
FIRST AID PULL OUT

DEVELOPMENT DISORDERS
Developmental disorders in dogs can lead to gait abnormalities, affecting how they walk or move from a young age. These
disorders often involve abnormalities in the development of bones, joints, or muscles. Some common developmental
disorders that may result in gait abnormalities in dogs include:

HIP DYSPLASIA radiographs.

Cause: Abnormal development of the hip joint, leading to
instability and degeneration. ANGULAR LIMB DEFORMITIES
Symptoms: Hind limb lameness, bunny-hopping gait, Cause: Abnormalities in the growth of the long bones,
difficulty rising, and reluctance to use the hind legs. leading to deviations in limb alignment.
Diagnosis: Radiographs (X-rays) are commonly used to Symptoms: Abnormal gait, limb length discrepancy, and
diagnose hip dysplasia. joint stress.
Diagnosis: Clinical examination, radiographs, and
ELBOW DYSPLASIA evaluation of limb alignment.
Cause: Abnormal development of the elbow joint, often
involving multiple components such as fragmented MUSCULAR DYSTROPHY
coronoid process (FCP), osteochondritis dissecans (OCD), Cause: Genetic disorder affecting muscle development
and ununited anconeal process (UAP). and function.
Symptoms: Forelimb lameness, especially during exercise, Symptoms: Progressive muscle weakness, atrophy, and
and a shortened stride. gait abnormalities.
Diagnosis: Radiographs and sometimes advanced imaging Diagnosis: Muscle biopsy, genetic testing.
like CT scans or arthroscopy.
WOBBLER SYNDROME (CERVICAL
OSTEOCHONDRITIS DISSECANS (OCD) SPONDYLOMYELOPATHY)
Cause: Developmental disorder where cartilage in the joint Cause: Malformation of the cervical spine, leading to
fails to develop correctly, leading to the formation of a flap compression of the spinal cord.
of cartilage. Symptoms: Wobbly or stilted gait, weakness, and
Symptoms: Lameness, joint swelling, and pain. Gait sometimes neck pain.
abnormalities may be present. Diagnosis: Imaging studies such as MRI or CT scans.
Diagnosis: Radiographs and sometimes advanced imaging
or arthroscopy. Treatment for developmental disorders often involves
medical management, surgical intervention, and physical
PATELLAR LUXATION therapy, depending on the specific condition and its
Cause: Malformation of the knee joint, causing the patella severity. Early detection and intervention are crucial to
(kneecap) to dislocate. managing these disorders and preventing long-term
Symptoms: Hind limb lameness, intermittent skipping, and consequences. Veterinary consultation and diagnostic
abnormal hind limb movement. imaging are essential for accurate diagnosis and
Diagnosis: Clinical examination and sometimes treatment planning.

“Early detection and intervention are crucial to

managing these disorders and preventing
long-term consequences.”
References

 Ettinger, S. J., & Feldman, E. C. (2017). Textbook of Veterinary

Internal Medicine (8th ed.). Elsevier.
 Tobias, K. M., & Johnston, S. A. (2018). Veterinary Surgery:
Small Animal. Elsevier.
 Nelson, R. W., & Couto, C. G. (2018). Small Animal Internal
Medicine (5th ed.). Elsevier. 

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BREED FOCUS

Breed Focus:
MALTESE
We get up close to this small breed with the big Wow factor.

he Maltese dog, known for its long, flowing

T
Victoria were known to have owned and adored
white coat and friendly demeanour, has a Maltese dogs, solidifying the breed’s place among
rich history that spans many centuries. royal circles.
Here is a brief overview of the Maltese The Maltese continued to be a popular companion
dog’s history: dog throughout the 20th century and into the 21st
The Maltese is one of the oldest toy century. Their small size, beautiful coat, and friendly
breeds, and its origins can be traced back at least nature make them a favourite among dog lovers.
2000 years. Some believe the breed originated on Throughout its history, the Maltese has been
the Isle of Malta in the Mediterranean, while others primarily a companion dog, cherished for its
argue it has roots in Asia. affectionate personality and distinctive appearance.
The breed became popular among royalty and The breed’s history is closely intertwined with
aristocrats, particularly during the Roman Empire. aristocracy, royalty, and high society, contributing to
Historical records show that figures like the ancient its reputation as a symbol of luxury and charm.
Greek philosopher Aristotle and the Roman
poet Publius wrote about small companion dogs Health
resembling Maltese. Maltese dogs are prone to certain health conditions
Making its way to Europe through trade routes, and concerns, like all dog breeds. While not all
the Maltese gained popularity among the wealthy Maltese dogs will experience these issues, owners
and elite. Maltese dogs became sought-after need to be aware of potential health issues and work
companions for noblewomen, often depicted in art with reputable breeders who prioritise the health of
alongside their high-profile owners. their breeding stock. Here are some common health
During the Renaissance, artists like Titian and conditions associated with the Maltese breed:
Sir Anthony Van Dyck portrayed Maltese dogs in
their paintings, further contributing to the breed’s Respiratory problems
popularity and association with the elite. Due to their small size and short muzzle, Maltese
By the 16th century, Maltese dogs had reached dogs can be prone to respiratory issues, including
England. Queen Elizabeth I and later Queen tracheal collapse. This condition occurs when the

Words: Jennifer Dow

054
 MALTESE

055
BREED FOCUS

“This breed enjoys being part of family activities.”

cartilage in the trachea weakens, leading to breathing ears can help prevent infections. It’s essential to keep
difficulties. It’s important to avoid using collars that put the ears dry and free of excessive hair.
pressure on the neck and instead opt for a harness to
prevent exacerbating tracheal problems. White Shaker Syndrome
This neurological disorder primarily affects small,
Patellar luxation white dog breeds, including the Maltese. It can cause
This condition is where the kneecap (patella) dislocates tremors and difficulty with coordination. Treatment
from its normal position. It can cause lameness and often involves medication to control symptoms.
pain. Maltese dogs may be genetically predisposed to Maltese owners must work closely with a reputable
patellar luxation, so regular veterinary check- veterinarian to monitor their dog’s health,
ups are essential to monitor joint health. schedule regular check-ups, and address
any concerns promptly. Additionally,
Hypoglycemia maintaining a healthy diet, providing
Small breeds, including the Maltese, regular exercise, and practising
can be prone to hypoglycemia (low good grooming and dental care
blood sugar), especially as puppies. can contribute to the overall well-
This can result in weakness, being of a Maltese dog. Regular
lethargy, seizures, and, if left veterinary check-ups and early
untreated, may be life-threatening. intervention are crucial to managing
Feeding the puppy small, frequent and addressing potential health issues
meals and monitoring its energy levels in the breed.
are crucial in preventing hypoglycemia.
Family life
Eye conditions This breed enjoys being part of family activities.
Maltese dogs are susceptible to certain eye conditions, Their friendly disposition can make them well-suited
such as progressive retinal atrophy (PRA) and cataracts. for families. Maltese dogs are generally active and
Regular eye examinations by a veterinarian can help playful, but their small size means they don’t require
detect and manage these conditions early. as much exercise as larger breeds. Regular play
sessions and short walks are usually sufficient to keep
Ear Infections them happy.
The long, hanging ears of the Maltese can be prone to The breed thrives on attention and companionship.
ear infections. Regular cleaning and inspection of the They may suffer from separation anxiety if left alone for

056
 MALTESE

extended periods. Families who can provide consistent

companionship and avoid leaving the dog alone for
long hours are better suited for a Maltese.
Maltese dogs are intelligent and can get along well
with other pets if properly socialised from a young age.
Their small size means they should be supervised around
larger or more energetic pets to prevent accidents. The
Maltese can be a great family pet for families who can
meet their needs for companionship, grooming, and
training. Families with older children or those who can
supervise interactions with younger children may find
the Maltese is an affectionate and delightful addition
to the household. As with any breed, it’s essential to
consider the specific needs and temperament of the
individual dog and ensure that the family’s lifestyle
aligns with the breed’s characteristics.

Coat care
Maintaining the coat of a Maltese dog requires regular
grooming to keep it clean, healthy, and tangle-free. The
Maltese’s long, silky coat is distinctive, but it requires
a commitment to prevent matting and maintain a
beautiful appearance.

Here are some tips for grooming a Maltese:

 Daily brushing: Brush your Maltese coat daily to

prevent tangles and mats. Use a pin brush or a slicker
brush designed for long-haired dogs. Start from the tips
of the hair and work your way up to the body. Be gentle to
avoid causing discomfort.
 Bathing: Bathe your Maltese regularly, typically every
two to four weeks, depending on the dog’s lifestyle
and activity level. Use a high-quality dog shampoo and
conditioner to keep the coat clean and soft. Be sure to
rinse thoroughly to prevent any residue.
 Drying: Carefully dry your Maltese’s coat with a towel
or a low-heat blow dryer after bathing. Make sure the coat
is completely dry to prevent skin issues.
 Trimming: Regular trimming is essential to maintain
the shape and length of the coat. Some Maltese owners
opt for professional grooming every 4-6 weeks to ensure
a neat and even trim. If you’re grooming at home, use
blunt-nosed scissors to cut around the eyes, paws,
and anus.
 Eye Cleaning: Maltese dogs are prone to tear staining
due to their facial anatomy. Clean the area around the
eyes daily with a damp cloth to prevent tear stains from
accumulating. Some owners also use specialised tear
stain removers.

By incorporating these grooming practices into your

routine, you can keep your Maltese’s coat in optimal
condition. Additionally, early and positive experiences
with grooming can help your Maltese become
accustomed to the process and make it a positive
bonding experience for you and your dog.
BREED FOCUS

Exercise Socialisation:
Maltese dogs are small, and their exercise needs are Allow your Maltese to interact with other dogs and
relatively moderate compared to larger, more active people, whether through walks, playdates, or trips to
breeds. However, they still require daily physical activity the dog park.
and mental stimulation to stay healthy and happy. Here
are some guidelines for the exercise needs of a Maltese: Supervise Outdoor Activities:
Always supervise your Maltese when they are outdoors,
Short Walks: especially in areas where larger animals or potential
Maltese dogs benefit from short, daily walks. Aim hazards may be present.
for at least two daily walks, each lasting around 15 It’s important to note that individual exercise needs
to 20 minutes. These walks provide them with an can vary based on factors such as age, health, and
opportunity to explore their environment, socialise, and temperament. Some Maltese dogs may be more energetic
get some exercise. than others, so pay attention to your dog’s cues and
adjust their exercise routine accordingly. Additionally, be
Playtime: mindful of extreme weather conditions, as Maltese dogs
Interactive play is crucial for a Maltese’s physical and may be sensitive to extreme temperatures.
mental well-being. Interactive toys, such as puzzle toys or
toys that dispense treats, can provide mental stimulation. A summary…
The Maltese is a small, affectionate toy breed known
Indoor Activities: for its long, silky white coat. A friendly and outgoing
Maltese dogs can adapt well to indoor activities, making temperament makes an excellent companion.
them suitable for apartment living. Play games like fetch Despite its diminutive size, the Maltese is playful
or hide and seek inside the house to entertain them. and adaptable and enjoys short daily walks and
indoor activities. Regular grooming is essential to
Training Sessions: maintain its coat, and early socialisation and training
Mental stimulation is as essential as physical exercise for contribute to a well-behaved pet. The breed has a rich
a Maltese. Incorporate short training sessions into your history, often associated with aristocracy. Overall, the
daily routine to keep their minds active and strengthen Maltese is a charming and devoted family dog with a
the bond between you and your dog. distinctive appearance.

“Be mindful of extreme weather conditions, as Maltese

dogs may be sensitive to extreme temperatures”

058
BALANCING ACT

060
 BALANCING ACT

Balancing Act
We explore the delicate symphony of managing your dog’s body weight.

I
n a world where pet obesity is rising, ensuring insight begins with a consultation with a trusted
your dog maintains a healthy body weight is veterinarian. Just as a maestro guides an orchestra,
crucial for their well-being. A well-balanced a veterinarian can conduct a thorough examination,
diet, regular exercise, and mindful habits determining the ideal weight range for a dog based
contribute to a happy and healthy canine on factors such as breed, age, and activity level. This
companion. This feature will explore various initial assessment sets the stage for a harmonious
aspects of managing your dog’s body weight, journey towards better health.
offering practical tips and expert advice to help your
four-legged friend live their best life. Choosing the right diet
Selecting the appropriate dog food is paramount
Understanding your dog’s unique needs in managing your pup’s weight. Opt for high-
Dog weight management is not a one-size-fits-all quality, well-balanced dog food that suits their
endeavour but a delicate symphony of tailored care specific needs. Look for products with real meat as
and informed decisions. Understanding the unique the primary ingredient and avoid excessive fillers.
needs of individual dogs is paramount, and this Controlled portion sizes are essential, and you may

Words: Jennifer Dow

061
BALANCING ACT

need to adjust the amount based on your dog’s age, size,

and activity level. This dietary harmony contributes
to weight management and supports overall health
and vitality.

Implementing portion control

Overfeeding is a common culprit in canine weight
gain. Utilising measuring cups to dispense precise
amounts of food ensures that dogs receive the nutrition
they need without the risk of overindulgence. Consider
feeding your dog smaller, more frequent meals to help
control hunger and prevent overeating. Treats should
be given in moderation, and you might explore healthy,
low-calorie alternatives. This careful modulation of
food intake contributes to weight management and
fosters a healthy relationship with food.

Promoting regular exercise

Exercise is vital to maintaining a healthy weight and
overall fitness. Engage your dog in regular physical
activity, such as daily walks, playtime, or interactive
toys. The type and intensity of exercise will depend
on your dog’s breed and health status, so tailor your
routine accordingly. Walking, playing, and engaging
in interactive activities burn calories and contribute
to a dog’s mental and emotional well-being. Exercise
becomes not just a means of weight control but a
celebration of vitality and joy.

Monitoring your dog’s weight

Monitoring a dog’s weight becomes the vigilant refrain,
sung through regular weigh-ins at home and scheduled

“Regular weigh-ins at home and veterinary check-

ups are essential to track your dog’s progress.”
Canine obesity can lead to various health issues, much like in humans. Some of the leading health problems
associated with obesity in dogs include:

 Joint problems: Excess weight puts additional strain on  Cancer risk: Some studies suggest a link between obesity
the joints, leading to arthritis and hip dysplasia. and an increased risk of certain types of cancer in dogs.
 Diabetes: Obesity is a significant risk factor for diabetes in  Heat intolerance: Overweight dogs may have a more
dogs, just as it is in humans. It can lead to insulin resistance challenging time regulating their body temperature, making
and impaired glucose metabolism. them more susceptible to heat-related issues.
 Cardiovascular disease: Obese dogs are at an increased  Compromised immune function: Obesity
risk of developing heart disease and hypertension, which can can weaken the immune system, making
affect the cardiovascular system. dogs more susceptible to infections and
 Respiratory issues: The extra weight can make breathing other health problems.
harder for dogs, leading to respiratory problems, especially in  Reduced quality of life:
brachycephalic breeds. Obese dogs may experience
 Liver disease: Obesity can contribute to the development a reduced quality of life
of hepatic lipidosis, a condition where excessive fat due to decreased mobility,
accumulates in the liver. lethargy, and an overall
 Decreased lifespan: Obese dogs generally have a shorter decreased ability to engage
lifespan than dogs with a healthy weight. in physical activities.

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 BALANCING ACT

veterinary check-ups. Regular weigh-ins at home

and veterinary check-ups are essential to track your Obesity and decreased lifespan: The research
dog’s progress. Sudden weight changes may indicate
underlying health issues. Record your dog’s weight Several studies have suggested a correlation between
and adjust their diet and exercise routine. This vigilant canine obesity and a shortened lifespan.
approach allows for timely adjustments to the weight Numerous studies have explored the impact of obesity
management plan, ensuring a proactive response to on canine lifespan. For instance, a study published in the
evolving health needs. “Journal of Veterinary Internal Medicine” (Adams et al.,
2016) found that overweight dogs had a shorter lifespan
Embracing enrichment activities compared to dogs with a healthy weight.
Beyond traditional exercise, mental stimulation is vital The link between obesity and various health conditions,
for your dog’s well-being. Enrichment activities, such such as diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and cancer, is
as puzzle toys, interactive games, and training sessions, well-established. These conditions, when associated with
engage their minds and burn extra calories. Mental obesity, contribute to a decrease in overall lifespan.
stimulation also helps prevent boredom, reducing the A study by Kealy et al. (2002) found that dogs that
likelihood of overeating due to stress or anxiety. maintained a lean body condition lived significantly
longer than their overweight counterparts. The
Incorporating healthy snacking overweight dogs had a higher risk of mortality, mainly
While treats should be limited, strategic use of healthy due to diseases related to obesity.
snacks can aid in weight management. Consider Obesity not only impacts the quantity but also the
offering raw vegetables like carrots or green beans as quality of a dog’s life. Obesity-related conditions can
low-calorie alternatives. reduce a dog’s ability to lead an active and fulfilling life,
decreasing its lifespan.
Utilising professional guidance Veterinarians widely recognise the link between
Working closely with a professional, such as a obesity and decreased lifespan in dogs. Professional
certified canine nutritionist or a veterinary nutrition veterinary associations often promote weight
specialist, can provide invaluable insights. These management as a crucial aspect of preventive healthcare
experts can create a personalised nutrition plan, offer to enhance a dog’s longevity.
dietary recommendations, and guide you through

063
BALANCING ACT

the weight management process based on your dog’s

specific requirements. Obesity and cancer: The research

Addressing emotional factors Several studies have suggested a correlation between

Emotional well-being is an often overlooked aspect canine obesity and an elevated risk of certain types of
of weight management. Changes in routine, new cancer. A study published in the “Journal of Veterinary
environments, or adding a new family member can Internal Medicine” (Adams et al., 2011) found that
stress your dog, leading to overeating. Be attentive overweight dogs had an increased risk of developing
to these factors, provide comfort, and maintain certain cancers compared to dogs with a healthy weight.
a consistent routine to alleviate stress-related The link between obesity and cancer may vary for
weight issues. different types of cancer in dogs. For example, mammary
tumours in female dogs have been associated with
Celebrating progress and adjusting obesity. A study by Sorenmo et al. (2009) reported that
strategies overweight female dogs had a higher risk of developing
Celebrate small victories and milestones in your dog’s mammary tumours.
weight management journey. Positive reinforcement, Obesity is often associated with chronic inflammation,
such as praise or a favourite toy, can motivate your dog. and inflammation is known to play a role in the
Regularly reassess your strategies, making adjustments development and progression of cancer. Research has
as needed. Weight management is ongoing, and explored the inflammatory pathways and molecular
adapting to your dog’s changing needs ensures mechanisms that may link obesity to increased cancer risk
continued success. in dogs.
Incorporating these additional aspects into your Obesity can alter hormonal balances in the body,
dog’s weight management plan will enhance their potentially influencing the development of certain cancers.
physical health and contribute to their overall Hormones such as insulin and sex hormones may be
happiness. Remember, the journey to a healthy weight involved in the obesity-cancer connection in dogs.
is a partnership between you and your dog, built on Veterinarians often recommend weight management
love, understanding, and a commitment to their well- and maintaining a healthy body condition score as part of
being. Combining expert advice with a personalised preventive healthcare to reduce the risk of various health
approach sets the stage for a long and vibrant life for conditions, including cancer.
your beloved canine companion.

064
K9 COVER

Pre-existing conditions,
what’s the big deal?
Stewart Rioch runs K9 Cover, a pre-existing specialist launched in 2021.
We follow his journey into this sector and look at how technology and a
fresh approach could help transform it for the better.

L
et’s be blunt. Vet bills have rocketed in the launched in 2021. We follow his journey into this sector
last decade and insurance is often a necessary and look at how technology and a fresh approach could
evil. Many owners spend more on their dog’s help transform it for the better.
health than their own, so if you’re paying for In early 2019 I was approached by a medical
it then surely, you’ll want it to respond in the screening company. They’d seen me create Staysure’s
event of a claim. travel insurance offering using a scoring tool for human
However, uncorroborated reports estimate that 17% pre-existing medical conditions and thought I might
of the claims from policies bought through comparison want to repeat the journey in the pet sector. What they’d
sites are declined. Given the number of UK households developed was a sophisticated risk-rating assessment
who own a dog, that’s roughly one million affected which I’ll cover in more detail later but suffice to say
policyholders. And there’s no doubt over the biggest I totally bought into it. Now in our third year we’ve
culprit - pre-existing conditions. So why are they such a begun to get the message across to the masses.
huge problem and how do we fix it? For a broker, pre-existing conditions offer the
Stewart Rioch runs K9 Cover, a pre-existing specialist opportunity to earn two chunks of income. One for

066
 K9 COVER

the core risk, the other for medical. Insurance broking website took some guts to support. From handshake to
isn’t for the fainthearted, you need deep pockets when launch it took eight months designing and finalising the
95% of clients pay over 12 months and commission website, back and forth over process, rates, structure,
is drip-fed. Established brands can earn 25% of the and oversight.
gross premium in the pet sector, but new players One of their biggest concerns was
must sacrifice profit for volume. Go too quite simple. How to avoid someone
cheap and you set yourself up to fail purchasing a policy from the vet’s
in year two trying to accommodate waiting room. As a consumer you
big price increases, which let’s might be thinking that’s unfair,
be honest no-one wants. But be but insurance is about random
warned this is often the adopted events – not undiagnosed
comparison site model, and conditions. If you look at our
whilst the regulator allows quote process (www.k9cover.
pet insurance to have dual com) you’ll see we only accept
pricing (different rates for dogs whose full history is
new and renewal) it’s likely known. We don’t expect clients
to continue. to recall every visit to the vets,
Accepting that not everyone but we do want you to be clear
reading this understands insurance, about any significant conditions.
I should point out that a broker The medical declaration generates
doesn’t take the risk of whether the claims a score, two scores in fact. The first is for
outweigh the premium. That’s the role of the acute one-off conditions which are now resolved.
insurer (or underwriter), and despite my team’s years The second sets us apart from other brokers because it
of experience it took over a year for an insurer to buy looks at ongoing conditions, for example epilepsy or skin
into our concept. That company was Danish specialist conditions, and subject to acceptance our cover includes
ETU Forsikring. trips to the vets for these too. That means prescriptions,
At times it was like pushing a boulder uphill. Insurers medications, scans, consultations are all covered.
are a cautious bunch, so an offering which asked We don’t just pick a condition and give it a price.
visitors to self-declare their dog’s medical history on a Instead, we drill down into the condition to understand

"If you look at our quote process you’ll see we

only accept dogs whose full history is known."

067
K9 COVER

the likelihood of future claims, and how much they will

cost. If the condition escalates then we’ll cover that too.
Upon renewal we’ll review your premium and offer the
same web-price used to attract new clients if you’ve
claimed less than £1k. We think that’s fair. We can’t
promise anything indefinitely but we’re all dog owners
and have been taken advantage of at some point too.
To mitigate these risks, we’ve seen other brokers
introduce extended wait-periods and limit the coverage.
Our approach is different. If we accept your dog’s
conditions then you’ll be covered IN FULL - from day
1, up to your chosen vet fee limit. If covering a huge
claim is your primary concern then raising the excess
to £500 can discount the policy by up to 25%. We
understand how expensive it is to own a dog. On our
site you can see the most common conditions by breed
and a simple search on Google will illustrate the cost
to treat. Note there is a big variance by location, and

"Cover for pre-existing

conditions is subject to
declaration and acceptance"
then by vet. Independent practices tend to be cheaper
than major chains, but not always. Specialists play an
important role and online pharmacies usually undercut
vet prices for medication.
Our question is simple though. If you’re changing
insurer, why buy a policy which excludes pre-existing
conditions? Our records point to these being the most
likely conditions you’re going to claim for in the future.
And if you’ve never considered changing, then maybe
this is the year? Perhaps begin with a quote on your
own insurer’s website to see whether it’s higher or lower
than what you’re currently paying. I think you know
the answer already. For more information or to get a
quote, visit www.k9cover.com. Cover for pre-existing
conditions is subject to declaration and acceptance,
as defined on the company website. We are actively
seeking partnerships with industry specialists.
 Managing Director: Stewart Rioch
 Email: [email protected]
 Telephone: 03300 564061

K9 Cover is a trading name of I-Capitalise Ltd located at 5

Harveys Hill, Luton, Bedfordshire, LU2 7YL and registered
in England & Wales (08184824). I-Capitalise Ltd is an
appointed representative of Healix
Insurance Services Ltd which is
authorised and regulated by the
Financial Conduct Authority (FCA
Registration Number 437248).
5% discount when you use the
QR code
HOUSEHOLD CHEMICALS AND NATURAL DIETS

NURTURING YOUR
DOGS MICROBIOME
AND IMMUNE SYSTEM
I
n the modern world, numerous household support digestion, food absorption, immune system
chemicals are used in our houses to preserve control, protection against pathogens and even mood.
cleanliness and hygiene. Whilst cleaning products 70% of your dog’s immune system is located in the
are essential in the home, they may not be beneficial gut which goes to show the importance of what they
for our animal friends. The microbiome, a group eat on a daily basis. Many of the beneficial bacteria
of microorganisms residing in a dog’s gut, can be is housed on your dog’s skin too, which means
disrupted by exposure to common home toxins, which their surrounding environment is very important to
may also impair the dog’s immune system. Natural their health.
foods, which can stimulate a strong immunological
response in dogs and assist in restoring balance, offer Impact of Household Chemicals on the
some hope. We’ll examine how your dog’s microbiome Microbiome
is impacted by common home pollutants and the Household chemicals, including cleaning products, air
advantages of providing a natural diet to promote fresheners and even candles can
immune system health. inadvertently disrupt your dog’s
microbiome. Here are a few
The Canine Microbiome examples of how.
The microbiome is a complex ecosystem made up of With dogs primarily exploring
trillions of microorganisms, mostly bacteria which using their nose and mouth,
inhabit your dog’s skin, ears, respiratory system and surfaces cleaned with commercial
mouth with the majority living in the digestive system. products such as floors and tables
These microbes are crucial to a dog’s health as they are easily accessible and open for

070
 HOUSEHOLD CHEMICALS AND NATURAL DIETS

ingestion and inhalation. Household cleaners contain  Problems with nutrition absorption: An unbalanced
a world of harsh chemicals that harm good bacteria microbiota may make it difficult for dogs to absorb vital
with ease. nutrients from their diet.
For example, using a commercial floor cleaner  Behavioural Modifications: Recent studies point
on a floor your dog frequently like to lie on, they will to a link between the stomach and the brain. A dog’s
most likely inhale, absorb and potentially ingest the behaviour and mood may be affected by a disturbed
harsh chemicals. This can lead to an imbalanced microbiome.
immune microbiome and potential allergic responses.  Allergies and Skin Issues: Microbiome imbalances
Household air fresheners contain chemicals that can may play a role in the development of allergies and skin
trigger allergic reactions disorders including dermatitis.
Most modern cleaning products contain
antibacterial ingredients. Whilst killing off harmful How to nurture and support the
bacteria is great, unfortunately, these ingredients kill all microbiome
bacteria, including the beneficial strains. Good bacteria Supporting your dog’s microbiome is a must, especially
is essential for health as they protect your dog from in an age where toxins are all around us. We understand
harmful pathogens. The more we use antibacterial that keeping your home clean is incredibly important
chemicals, the more damage they can do. so luckily for us dog owners, there is a company that
offers household cleaning products with health benefits.
What are the consequences of a disrupted Ingenious Probiotics are an innovative brand that
Microbiome? work in harmony with nature. These products contain
Imbalances in the microbiome can lead to several probiotics, so not only do they get rid of harmful
health issues such as: bacteria, they promote the growth of good bacteria
 Digestive Issues: Imbalances in the microbiota can in your dogs’s living space. This is a win-win situation!
cause gastrointestinal conditions including diarrhoea, Switching from commercial cleaners to a probiotic
constipation, and irritable bowel syndrome. cleaner can have a huge impact on your dog’s health.
 Weakening Immunity: The immune system is strongly Secondly and most importantly, the foundation of
supported by a healthy microbiota. Disruption might a healthy microbiome starts with your dog’s
make it harder for the dog to fight against illnesses diet. In order for your dog’s immune
and infections. system and, every system in the body,

“Imbalances in the microbiome can lead to

several health issues”

071
HOUSEHOLD CHEMICALS AND NATURAL DIETS

“It’s important to choose food which is high-quality

and as natural as possible. Paleo Ridge raw dog food
pride themselves on their high-quality ingredients.”
to function properly it needs to be nourished in the nature will help to strengthen their immune systems.
correct way. Additive-free, natural food is highly Dog’s who spend a lot of time indoors in a sterile
recommended. Your dog needs a nutritious diet to environment will more likely develop immune system
flourish, processed foods are not nutrient-dense and weakness which can lead to issues as stated earlier in the
tend to include ingredients which are not supportive of article. Not only this but spending an abundance of time
the immune system. in nature has been proven to improve mood and general
It’s important to choose food which is high-quality health too!
and as natural as possible. Paleo Ridge raw dog food Probiotics are an excellent use of support for your
pride themselves on their high-quality ingredients. dog, whether a puppy or an adult. These supplements
Raw dog food is an excellent choice when supporting which come in many forms (the more natural the
your dog’s health, this type of diet provides essential better!) can help give your dog beneficial bacteria which
nutrients and vitamins which are vital for longevity. has been depleted over time. An excellent addition is
When feeding raw dog food, the more variety the a good-quality goat’s Kefir. Kefir is fermented goat’s
better! Different animals contain different nutrients so milk and contains a fantastic source of live cultures.
the wider the range, the more abundance the vitamins Probiotic capsules are also a great addition, the advice I
and minerals. For extra support, you can include would give is to check the ingredients before purchasing
antioxidants such as blueberries, blackberries, to ensure there are no fillers or unnecessary ingredients.
organic hemp seed powder, kale, broccoli, green- The comprehensive approach of supporting your
lipped mussel and seaweed. There is an excellent dog’s microbiota includes both their surroundings and
product called Paleo Plus Berry Good which their meals. While Paleo Ridge raw dog food feeds your
includes all of the above ingredients and makes pet from the inside out, Ingenious Probiotics household
a potent immune-boosting addition for your cleaners help create a healthy living environment.
dog’s diet. These techniques may be included into your dog’s
Another means of support is to daily routine to help maintain a healthy microbiome,
ensure your dog which in turn encourages improved digestion, a
gets plenty of time stronger immune system, and general well-being. Keep
outdoors in nature. in mind that every dog is different, so speak with your
Dog’s are fantastic vet to customise a microbiome support programme for
explorers and being your dog that meets their individual requirements.
exposed to bacteria in Website: paleoridge.co.uk.

072
PALEORIDGE.CO.UK
@PALEORIDGE
MIALGAE

HOW ALGAE IS TRANSFORMING

PET NUTRITION

O
mega-3 is a key ingredient to include in Omega-3 is helpful for animals of all ages:
your diet - and the same applies to your Puppies and kittens:
pet. This essential fatty acid isn’t something “Supplementing DHA is important for optimal
the body can produce, so supplementation development of the coat, skin, brain and eyes. Studies
is important. Laura Ward, Pet Nutritionist found puppy performance of reversal task learning,
with extensive experience in pet food visual contrast discrimination and navigation of obstacles
formulation, labelling and manufacturing explains is significantly better after early DHA supplementation.
more, including the potential of algae as an Whatsmore, maternal supplementation of DHA
alternative to fish oil. has even shown improvements in developing
“Omega-3 fatty acids are ‘healthy these areas in their puppies.”
fats’ which support essential bodily
functions. The body can’t produce Older pets:
all the omega-3s needed for best “DHA has also been shown to counter
health, meaning we need to get them age-related cognitive degeneration
through diet or supplementation. of senior dogs, showing improved
One specific type of omega-3 is spatial recognition, executive function
Docosahexaenoic acid, or DHA. and maintenance of working memory
Studies have shown that DHA performance.”
supplementation has multiple benefits
to the body, showing improvements when To meet omega-3 needs, many pet foods
treating conditions ranging from osteoarthritis to heart include fish oil from wild caught fish. However, the
disease. A pet’s skin and coat also benefit from the sustainability impact of fish oil is coming into public
dietary addition of DHA, as increased concentration focus. Every year, billions of fish — almost one-fifth of
of DHA improves coat condition and skin health. the world’s annual wild catch — are used to extract fish
Supplemental DHA has been shown to enhance both oil or make fish meal. The UN Food and Agriculture
visual and cognitive health, keeping animals healthy Organisation estimates that over 90% of global fish
and well.” stocks are either overfished or fished to maximum

074
 MIALGAE

sustainable levels. plus 50% fats and 10% protein.

Omega-3 is an important part of pet diets, but it’s MiAlgae partners with the whisky industry to recycle
clear more options are needed to meet demand. The liquid co-products from the distillery process as an
answer could lie in looking earlier in the food chain, ideal feedstock for growing their algae. This means
to algae. Interestingly, like humans and pets, fish don’t NaturAlgae supports a more circular economy, turning
produce omega-3, it comes from the algae and plankton co-products into a nutritious feed ingredient. Using the
they eat. Algae is a primary producer of omega-3, and outputs from an average distillery, MiAlgae’s technology
fish are a secondary source, because every fish gets its can produce thousands of tonnes of omega-3 rich
omega-3 from algae. NaturAlgae. This has the potential to save tens of
Using algae for omega-3 can also have benefits for thousands of tonnes of CO2, recycle tens of millions of
dogs, says Laura: “Using algae, rather than fish, as a litres of water and protect tens of thousands of tonnes
source of omega-3 comes with further positives. It is of fish annually.
suitable for use in plant-based pet foods, single protein As more pet owners are aware of their dog’s diets
source formulas or limited ingredient diets, and for pets and the importance of omega-3, algae can provide a
with sensitivities to fish.” traceable, nutritious and sustainable alternative. Pet
Biotechnology company MiAlgae saw the potential Nutritionist Laura concludes: “NaturAlgae is an ideal
in harnessing omega-3 from algae, developing a way to add DHA omega-3 into pet food products to
sustainable and omega-3 rich algal ingredient, called convey the benefits of DHA. Being vegan and made
NaturAlgae, which feed producers can supplement from distillery co-products in the UK, it’s also in line
into pet foods as an alternative to using fish oil as an with plant based and sustainability values.”
ingredient. NaturalAlgae contains at least 18% DHA, Find out more: www.mialgae.com/product

“Studies have shown that DHA supplementation has multiple

benefits to the body, showing improvements when treating
conditions ranging from osteoarthritis to heart disease.”

075
EAST RUSHTON COTTAGES

EAST RUSHTON COTTAGES

The differences is in the detail.

1
5 years ago Sue started East Ruston Cottages all the concerns she had when booking a holiday let –
after being frustrated when she booked holiday most importantly she wanted to be totally flexible with
properties claiming to be dog friendly and then dog numbers and not charge anything at all for dogs.
regularly finding that there was a huge list She then thought about needing a properly secure
of rules which accompanied the stay outside area, solid floors which were easy
with her dogs, plus extra charges to clean so people didn’t have to worry
for her dogs, and there was usually about muddy paw prints on carpets,
an inflexible limit on the amount sofas which dogs could share with
of dogs – “2 small, well behaved their humans and much more.
dogs only” was the norm. It got That was 15 years ago, Sue
to the point where, like a lot of now manages 40 properties in
dog owners, booking a holiday and around the Norfolk Coast.
cottage became a stressful She has stuck with her ethos
experience rather than something about having very flexible limits
to look forward to. on dog numbers – all of the
When Sue had the opportunity cottages welcome at least three,
to convert a farm building next to many properties actually welcoming
her home, her driving force was that she unlimited dogs and still at no extra cost.
wanted to create something that she couldn’t And dog friendly doesn’t have to mean dog
find anywhere else, the sort of place she had been eared! The properties range from grand converted
looking for but not been able to find. She decided to not barns to cosy smart lodges, all with their individual
only make it a dog friendly holiday let, but make it the personalities so there’s a style to suit every person and
most stress free experience possible. She thought about dog and all fitted out to a good standard.

076
 EAST RUSHTON COTTAGES

Beyond the fact East Ruston Cottages doesn’t charge

for dogs or have a huge list of rules when you arrive
– what makes it so different is that Sue knows the
cottages inside and out as well as having lived in the
area for over 30 years with her dogs - so she can offer
bespoke advice to guests to help them choose their ideal
holiday location. So if you have a terrier who digs to
hunt, hounds who can jump 5ft+, a reactive dog who
is anxious about seeing other dogs or people, a noise
nervous rescue dog, then she can recommend the
cottages that will suit you best.
The human needs are also accommodated – if
you want a single storey property or a superking bed,
need a walk in shower, hot tub, wood burner or seaside
location near a dog friendly café – Sue will be able to
tell you which property will suit you best.
When you book you can order pizza making kits,
brownies, afternoon teas, fish platters, a massage
and more for your stay – all supplied by small local
businesses and there are discounts for local pubs, the
nearby dog field and the raw food delivery company.
Repeat guests are offered vouchers to use at local shops,
cafes and more – supporting local businesses is another

“The properties range

from grand converted
barns to cosy smart
lodges, all with their
individual personalities”
key part of the East Ruston Cottages brand.
Over the last 4 years Sue and the cottages have won
the Dog Friendly Magazine awards for self catering - it
says a lot that East Ruston Cottages has had guests who
visit 3 or more times in a year, but also keep coming
back year, after year, after year. Nearly 50% of the
guests have been before.

What makes a difference?

With over a decade of experience, Sue is able to help
new prospective owners - there’s lot for the new cottage
owners to think about before they are welcomed into
the East Ruston Cottages family.
Outside areas are something which a lot of dog
owners find essential so making sure that the gardens
are as secure as possible is a priority. Obviously if
the view from the garden is a selling point, there are
compromises the owners can make like having a high
mesh fence.
Floors are something which also need to be
considered – hard wood floors are great as they are easy
to clean but some of them can be quite slippery for dogs
if they aren’t textured. Not everyone can change the
EAST RUSHTON COTTAGES

flooring, but a good compromise is to have some lovely

non slip rugs.
If cottages are allowing dogs access to upstairs and
bedrooms, supplying a stair gate is something which a
lot of dog owners don’t expect but find really useful to
help keep the dogs where they can be seen.
If a dog sleeps on the bed at home, there’s nothing
more stressful than worrying about it jumping on the
bed when somewhere has restricted access to certain
rooms. One of the big differences about East Ruston
Cottages is that not only do a lot of the owners allow
dogs in the bedroom, but also there is a large section of
the cottages which allow dogs on the bed, the guests are
just requested to bring their own bed linen.
The cottages usually have a stack of essentials in case
guests have forgotten something – spare bowls, leads,
beds as well as poo bags and treats are standard, but
beyond that, trying to go the extra mile by supplying
stair gates, crates, dog buggies and even having a local
dog sitter are all something which can be included in
a stay.
More than anything, it’s about thinking like a dog
owner – what would we love to have provided to
make a truly dog welcoming stay? Having 30 years of
experience with different types of dogs, the question
which Sue asks is ‘would a dog be happy and relaxed
staying here’?
East Ruston Cottages has a thriving social media
community who help answer questions about the
cottages and the area, where long returning guests help
new guests with recommendations on where to eat,
where to walk and all the different experiences which
Norfolk has to offer.

Website: www.eastrustoncottages.co.uk
Instagram: www.instagram.com/eastrustoncottages/
Facebook: www.facebook.com/EastRustonCottages
Twitter: witter.com/EastRustonCotts
Email: [email protected]

078
A DOG’S LIFE PODCAST

Words: Anna Webb

U
nsurprisingly, over 43% of new year’s instinctual needs, and learning to ‘speak dog’ whilst
resolutions fall through by February, being empathetic to dogs’ eye contact and intricate body
which is a shame as one of the top ten language, so that messages don’t get lost in translation.
best intentions is to spend more time I’m usually a bit hesitant when it comes to the world
with family and friends. As valued family of technology, but when a Swedish firm called Petli
members - that’s your dog too! reached out I changed my mind!
I was asked recently what I thought would Co founder Caroline Alupo joined me to
be one of the main talking points for chat about her 18 years experience as a
dogs and their owners in 2024, and I behaviour consultant which combines
said training and positive proactive with her Masters degree in Ethology.
engagement with your dog. She explained the art of training
Of course, health and nutrition is to merge behaviour knowledge
feature high on my agenda along with ethology which builds in an
with Titre testing and much more, appreciation of stress, contexts,
but without building a relationship and learned responses that affect
with your dog, you’re limiting the focus, communication and trust.
potential of your journey together. We discuss her findings from
On my podcast A DOG’S LIFE her study into PTSD in dogs, and
I talk at length to experts including, the effects of trauma oh behaviour and
The RSPCA’s Dr Sam Gaines, Behaviour training. We talk about how to re-balance
Consultant, Kim Brophey on her L.E.G.S course: deep fears, and how in the process you build
Applied Ethology Family Dog Mediation on the need the indelible bond through better understanding and
to understand that dogs are not little humans in a communication.
furry suit! Many cases Caroline has helped had experienced
Engaging proactively with your dog means harsh training methods, or were rescues, or others who
understanding dog behaviour, tuning into dogs’ were just unwittingly subjected to stressed owners on a

080
 A DOG’S LIFE PODCAST

daily basis taking its toll overtime.

Discussing how emotional intelligence is now
recognised by science, and chat about Episodic Memory
and how contexts can trigger PTSD, just as they can
in people.
We discuss how science concurs that children are
deeply affected, so much so that in some cases they can
lose their imagination, which is tragic.
Caroline co-founded the Petli app out of wanting to
help those owners who struggle to find the time to go
to dog training classes, or those that completed a puppy
foundation course, and need more help. Or for those
owners that want to train mindfully in-between their
weekly puppy school sessions
She also understands why dog training classes
can be intimidating or too competitive. And that

“We discuss her findings

from her study into PTSD
in dogs, and the effects
of trauma oh behaviour
and training.”
so much information can be shared, which can get
confusing. Petli is all about making training fun and
straight forward.
Session are very short and broken down in tiny bite-
sized trainings, like teaching a release cue, or how to
begin the recall. There’s smple challenges to push you,
rosettes to win, and advice at hand through the app at
all times. Plus, a libaray of articles helping de-mystify
your dog’s behaviour in an accessible way.
Training is everything you do with your dog to build
a relationship where boundaries are respected and
you’ve earned your dog’s focus and trust.
As Britain’s dogs face new legislative restrictions as
part of new Public Space Prietction Orders, it’s never
been more of an incentive to spend more time with
your dog and train your dog a perfect recall. After all
trained dogs are happy dogs, with happy owners.

Anna Webb

As a Canine Nutrition and Behaviour expert, Anna

combines her psychology degree, with study at the
College of Integrated Veterinary Therapies (CIVT) and over
20 years experience. Host of the award-nominated
A DOG’S LIFE podcast, she lives in London, and is owned
by Prudence, a Miniature Bull Terrier and Mr Binks, a
re-homed English Toy Terrier. www.annawebb.co.uk
 25TH AUGUST 2024

Sponsored by

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|
 DOG TRAINING/GAMES

Words: Sarah Roper KCAI CD R QIDTI

ARE YOU CONSIDERING

COMPETING WITH YOUR DOG?
at home to practice with wouldn't be advantageous.

T
here are countless dog sports in the UK that
you can compete in, whether in person at It's a wonderful hobby; it increases the bond between
competitions or especially since the recent you and your dog and ensures you are training at home
lockdowns. There are more opportunities between competitions. All are very social arenas, too;
to film yourself completing objectives and even if competing over the internet, there are usually
submitting to an organising body for judging. many groups to discuss and share tips online.
The filming and submission type is beneficial for Along the journey, there will undoubtedly be
dogs who are anxious or stressed in busy thoughts of what you would do with your next
environments with many people and dog, a dog you would do things differently
other dogs. It means you get to enjoy with for competition; you learn and
your dog, training and seeing grow as you go.
progress without the stress of The biggest piece of advice I
either having to 'perform on can share is - always ask yourself,
demand' or keeping your cool 'Is my dog enjoying it?' it can
when your dog is not coping. be so easy to get caught up in
Having competed in the moment of competing and
breed showing, KC rally and put pressure on ourselves and
Obedience, and been on many our dogs to do well, better, best
training days for other sports, - while quickly forgetting that the
I do feel that a public service dog didn't ask for this and placings
announcement is needed here - or pretty ribbons or rosettes mean
it's addictive, and it gets expensive! nothing to your dog. Your dog will aim
Suppose you compete in face-to-face shows/ to please and find pleasure in your joy at their
competitions. In that case, you must consider the travel performance, but winning or not, your dog does not
and possible accommodation and have a suitable comprehend the concept of competition and what it
vehicle where your dog can rest in our ever-changing means to us as humans.
British weather between competing classes. Many dogs could view it in the following way - early
Also, consider any equipment you may need to morning car trip, owner has been stressed and putting
compete; this will differ from sport to sport, but I have lots of things in the car, parking up in a busy car park
yet to find one where some form of investment for stuff which may be a muddy field, and lots of other dogs

083
DOG TRAINING/GAMES

“It’s about finding what makes you both happy”

heard barking from vehicles, a short stroll around, lots
of dogs and people, owner getting more anxious, walk
into an enclosed small open space, owner asks me to do
lots of things, but they are more stressed, back in the
car for a while, ah peace (other than the dogs barking)
and in the ring again we go, owner not as stressed
but not how they usually are when we train at home.
Quick leg stretch, then home. Owners are happy when
they are given the ribbon things, but not otherwise, I
don't understand.

Versus - going to training for said chosen sport

The owner relaxed, short journey, lots of rewards, and
favourite dog friends are likely there too. What's not to like?
There is nothing to say you can't just go training
(or train at home) for a sport and never compete; just
enjoy learning something new together. Giving your
dog a 'job' that gives them an outlet for their instincts,
something related to what they were initially bred for, is
a beautiful thing to do and often improves any problems
you have with their behaviour related to their instincts
in everyday life with them.
Giving your dog an outlet for his instincts in a
constructive way will increase your bond and ensure a
happier life together.
You may decide against training for dog sports, and
that's ok too! It's about finding what makes you both
happy and if that's going to your favourite spots for a
hike and then chilling out in front of the TV, then enjoy
and relax!

084
CHANGING ATTITUDES

Words: Jennifer Dow

CHANGING ATTITUDES
A Canine Chronicle of Changing Attitudes.

T
hroughout history, dogs have been loyal with loyalty, bravery, and even divinity in ancient Greece.
companions, guardians, and working The “faithful hound” concept was deeply ingrained
partners, but the way humans in the collective imagination.
perceive and treat these four- As societies transitioned from rural
legged friends has undergone to urban, so did the roles of dogs.
a fascinating evolution. The Industrial Revolution marked
From ancient to modern times, the a significant turning point, as dogs
relationship between humans and transitioned from working on farms
dogs has evolved, reflecting changes to fulfilling roles as companions and
in societal norms, cultural beliefs, status symbols among the emerging
and our understanding of these middle class. Breeds were selectively
remarkable animals. developed for specific traits, creating
In ancient civilisations, dogs held a breeds with distinct appearances and
variety of roles. In ancient Egypt, they temperaments.
were revered for their loyalty and protective The 20th century witnessed a surge in
instincts, often depicted as symbols of fidelity in art the anthropomorphism of dogs. As urbanisation
and literature. Meanwhile, dogs were often associated progressed, dogs increasingly became integral members

086
 CHANGING ATTITUDES

of households, evolving from outdoor guardians to

indoor companions. This shift was reflected in popular
culture, with dogs taking centre stage in literature, films,
and advertising. Canine characters like Lassie and Rin
Tin Tin became cultural icons, reinforcing the idea that
dogs are intelligent, loyal, and emotionally attuned.
The latter half of the 20th century saw the rise of the
animal rights movement, prompting a re-evaluation of
the treatment of animals, including dogs. The transition
from working partners to family members led to a surge
in pet ownership and an increased focus on the well-
being of companion animals. This shift also sparked a
growing interest in responsible breeding practices and
the promotion of adoption from shelters.
The “human-animal bond” concept has gained
prominence in recent years, emphasising the emotional
and psychological benefits of the relationship between
humans and dogs. Scientific research has supported
the idea that owning a dog can improve mental health,
reduce stress, and increase social interaction.
Today, dogs are more than just pets—they are valued
family members. The changing attitudes towards dogs
reflect a broader societal shift in understanding and
appreciating our canine companions’ emotional and
physical needs. As we continue to deepen our connection
with dogs, the history of this evolving relationship
serves as a testament to our ever-changing perceptions
and the enduring bond between humans and their
loyal companions.

“Dogs in the Middle Ages: A Period of Canine Stigmatisation”

The Middle Ages, from the 5th to the 15th century, was a trials. Dogs were sometimes accused of being familiars of
tumultuous period marked by religious fervour, superstitions, witches, reinforcing their connection to demonic entities and
and societal structures that shaped how people perceived perpetuating the belief in their malevolence.
the world around them. During this time, a notable shift Socially, dogs were viewed as symbols of chaos, starkly
occurred in how dogs were viewed, transitioning from contrasting with the structured feudal society of the Middle
revered companions to objects of suspicion and, at times, Ages. Depictions of dogs in art and literature often portrayed
outright vilification. them negatively, contributing to a collective consciousness
Religious beliefs and superstitions significantly shaped that associated dogs with disorder and unpredictability. Folk
the negative perception of dogs during the Middle Ages. narratives spread cautionary tales, reinforcing societal fear
Dogs were often associated with paganism and depicted in and mistrust of these once-revered animals.
folklore as supernatural entities. These beliefs contributed Economically, dogs were perceived as threats to livestock
to an atmosphere where dogs were seen as mysterious and and crops. Economic hardships during this period fuelled
potentially malevolent, fueling fear and mistrust among anti-dog sentiments, leading to calls for culling and
the populace. restrictions on dog ownership to mitigate perceived threats
The influence of the Church further solidified the negative to agricultural productivity.
image of dogs. Ecclesiastical teachings emphasised the The Middle Ages witnessed a period where dogs, once
importance of purity and cleanliness, portraying dogs as cherished companions, became stigmatised and viewed
unclean animals and carriers of disease. This perception led suspiciously. This negative perception was rooted in religious
to a cultural bias against dogs, with their presence deemed beliefs, legal frameworks, social attitudes, and economic
undesirable in the context of religious ideals. concerns. While this historical era marked a dark chapter
Legally, dogs faced persecution through restrictive laws in the relationship between humans and dogs, subsequent
and penalties. Legal codes of the time contained provisions shifts in perception and the rehabilitation of the canine image
limiting dog ownership and imposing consequences for highlight the dynamic nature of human-animal relationships
harm caused by dogs. The association between dogs and and the enduring ability to redefine our understanding of
witchcraft further escalated during the infamous witch these loyal companions.

087
 CAT-CHING CRIMINALS

Cat-ching criminals
with DNA from pet hairs
Cat hair could be the purr-fect way to catch criminals,
according to researchers from the University of Leicester.

T
hey have shown that a single cat hair This means that hair DNA cannot individually identify
contains DNA which could link a suspect a cat, making it essential to maximise information in a
and a crime-scene, or a victim. forensic test.
Around 26 per cent of UK householders However, a new method identified by the researchers
own a cat and with the average feline enabled them to determine the sequence of the entire
shedding thousands of hairs annually, it’s mitochondrial DNA, ensuring it is around ten times
inevitable that once you leave, you’ll bear evidence more discriminating than a previously used technique
of the furry resident. This is potentially useful in the which looked at only a short fragment.
forensic investigation of criminal activity. Dr Jon Wetton, from the University’s Department of
While a human perpetrator may take pains not Genetics & Genome Biology, co-led the study.
to leave their own DNA behind, transferred cat hair He said: “In a previous murder case we applied the
contains its own DNA that could provide a link between earlier technique but were fortunate that the suspect’s
a suspect and a crime-scene, or a victim. cat had an uncommon mitochondrial variant, as most
In a paper published in the journal Forensic Science cat lineages couldn’t be distinguished from each other.
International: Genetics earlier this month, researchers But with our new approach virtually every cat has a
at the University of Leicester describe a sensitive rare DNA type and so the test will almost certainly be
method that can extract maximum DNA information informative if hairs are found.”
from just one cat hair. The team tested the method in a lost cat case,
Emily Patterson, the lead author of the study and where DNA from skeletal remains of a missing female
a Leicester PhD student, said: “Hair shed by your cat cat could be matched with DNA from hair from her
lacks the hair root, so it contains very little useable surviving male offspring.
DNA. In practice we can only analyse Study co-lead, Professor of Genetics, Mark Jobling,
mitochondrial DNA, which is added: “In criminal cases where there is no human
passed from mothers to their DNA available to test, pet hair is a valuable source of
offspring, and is shared among linking evidence, and our method makes it much more
maternally related cats.” powerful. The same approach could also be applied to
other species - in particular, dogs.”

089
 POOCH PRODUCTS

Golden Paste
Is your heating making your dog itch?

T
urmerItch for Dogs as we are coming into TurmerItch from The Golden Paste Company helps to
winter and heating can make them itchier soothe the itch from the inside out with tasty salmon
Most dog owners want their pooch to be triangles that reduce itching and related discomfort.
nice and warm, just like them! However, The Turmeric, combined with Thyme and Lemongrass,
what we sometimes forget is that dogs adapt along with other natural ingredients not only soothes
to colder weather much better than us, and and supports the skin, but also helps to repel insects
that warmer conditions can irritate their skin. such as ticks and fleas. The high-quality Turmeric with
Skin conditions that make dogs itch are commonly elevated bioavailability ensures maximum absorption,
accompanied by bacterial or yeast infections which efficiency and antioxidant activity for your dog.
thrive in warm conditions. Although some breeds are
more likely to have itchy skin, seasons and temperature
changes can heighten this risk. Skin irritation, whatever Support your dog this winter by heading to
the cause, invokes an inflammatory response in the www.goldenpastecompany.co.uk to buy a tube of
dog, which is only made worse when they are exposed TurmerItch for just £30.25 or subscribe and save 10%.
to warm temperatures indoors having been in cold One tube lasts a 25kg dog approximately 50 days.
temperatures outdoors.

“The high-quality Turmeric with elevated

bioavailability ensures maximum absorption,
efficiency and antioxidant activity for your dog.”

091
POOCH PRODUCTS

START THE NEW YEAR RIGHT

New year, new way to feed raw.

T
here’s no better way to start a New Year cupboard-friendly, travel-ready range of raw products.
than with goals and resolutions that make COYA’s range of Main Meals, Food Toppers &
you and your furry best friend live a happier, Treats are designed to bring raw feeding to every pet
healthier life together. Get out and active in owner, for the benefit of every dog. Expertly crafted by
nature more, hit those fitness goals, and of a team with over 100 years collective experience in the
course make sure your dog is eating the pet food industry, COYA’s recipes are undeniable,
best, most nutritious food available. premium raw goodness set to change not
We believe the best way to feed just raw feeding but pet nutrition as
dogs is raw. Raw, biologically a whole.
appropriate nutrition, as nature COYA is dedicated to not only
intended. But it can often be raw feeding, but to minimal
inconvenient. Inconvenient to processing and keeping things as
buy, inconvenient to store and natural as possible. The brand
inconvenient to serve. We all is endearingly named after the
know too well the panic of ancient culture of the Incas,
forgetting to defrost tonight’s wherein the Queen, the Coya,
dinner whilst those puppy dog was responsible for the wellbeing
eyes make you feel all-too-guilty. of her people. This culture created
Or the ever-so-slightly off putting the original freeze drying by storing
defrosted raw meat next to your lemon food high up in the low temperature
meringue pie in the fridge. and high-pressure areas of the Andes
mountains, this preserving crops all year round.
Who is COYA?
That’s why we created COYA. COYA is 100% raw, Raw? In a box?
with absolutely no heat treatment, no cooking, no That’s right! Freeze-Drying is an ancient technique
harsh processing. Raw, simple and delicious, simply of preserving food. By using high pressure and low
freeze-dried to remove the water creating a shelf-stable, temperatures, neither of which have any impact

092
 POOCH PRODUCTS

on nutrition, water is removed from raw products, Raw has evolved. It has evolved into cupboard-friendly,
resulting in raw ingredients that do not need to be shelf-stable super convenient, super palatable Freeze-
cold-preserved. Dried food that is 100% raw but needs no space in the
We’ve taken this ancient method and applied it to freezer, no defrosting and no mess, faff or prep.
pet food, meaning no more freezer space, no more COYA undergoes NO heat treatment, no cooking
lengthy prep and no more messy kitchens and defrosted and no heat-based processing. COYA is RAW.
raw meat in the fridge.

Just raw, without the chore We’re going to need a bigger boat
80/20 smaller bowl
We are raw feeding fans, and specifically pioneers of The Freeze-Drying process removes the water from raw
complete and balanced nutrition. We believe that it’s ingredients and removes the need for frozen storage. But
super easy to make mistakes and not give your dog what this process also does is compact nutrition densely
everything they need unless using a complete and into each bite because there is no water diluting the
balanced recipe. That’s why we are so proud of our amount of meat, fish, vegetables, fruit, overall calories.
80/20 main meal recipes. COYA gives your dog more meat per bite.
All our Main Meals are 80% meat or fish, and
20% five specially selected fruit and vegetables. We But how does this translate into how much
are passionate not only about minimal processing, but to feed?
about limited ingredients and hypoallergenic nutrition, Excellent question. Frozen raw retails typically at an
so all Main Meals are crafted with this at the heart of average of £7.99 per kilo. Whilst premium wet food
them. Available in chicken, turkey, beef, pork and fish, retails at an average of £3.25+ per can.
plus a puppy recipe in chicken, COYA gives any dog, of Let’s work on an average lifestyle, 15kg dog across
any age, breed or lifestyle, the most nutritious blend of these formats.
raw goodness in a complete and balanced, easy-to-store
boxed format! 15 kg adult dog daily feed
 Freeze-Dried Raw = £6.52
Is it really raw?  Frozen raw at £7.99 per kilo = £5.11
Honestly, we get this question all the time! By official  Wet cans at £3.25 = £6.66
definition, for food, raw is uncooked. And whilst this Considering the freezer space, the
has always meant bulky frozen blocks taking up all the cost of running a freezer and the
space in the freezer, things evolve. cooking and harsh processing

"All our Main Meals are 80% meat or fish,

and 20% five specially selected fruit
and vegetables."

093
POOCH PRODUCTS

that wet food goes through, Freeze-Dried Raw offers

the best of uncooked, raw nutrition, convenience, AND
value for money.

Conclusion
COYA was created to blast open the doors of raw
feeding. As the best way to feed dogs, there should
be NO BARRIERS to this format of pet food. We
designed the range to reflect all lifestyles of pet parents
and all diets, intolerances and preferences of all dogs.
Our Main Meals are complete and balanced, perfect
for daily feed. But they’re also perfect for part time feed
or travelling with your dog.
The COYA Food Toppers are the perfect addition
to a kibble or wet food diet to increase palatability and
finally get your dog to enjoy meal times again whilst
giving a blast of raw goodness to their diet.
And, last but not least, COYA treats offer real, raw
meaty bites perfect for every day reward, training,
behaviour and enrichment. Perfect for snuffle mats,
enrichment and puzzle toys.
The range is designed to redefine pet nutrition, but
importantly to bring raw feeding, in whichever format,
to every pet owner. For the benefit of every dog. We are
COYA. Pet Food, Perfected.
COYA’s full range is available to buy today in all
good pet shops as well as directly with the COYA team
at www.coyapet.com.

"We designed the range to reflect all

lifestyles of pet parents and all diets,
intolerances and preferences of all dogs."

094
 POOCH PRODUCTS

DOTDOTPET
Launches new product range.

otDotPet are on a mission to redefine pet resulting in a shampoo that can help deliver a calmer

D parenting for modern generation of pet

parents, launching an exciting new product
range of shampoos with genuine USPs.

DotDotDog Conditioning Shampoos

Does your dog get the zoomies after bath time or find
the whole experience stressful? This can be because
dogs find the scent in many dog shampoos intolerable,
due to the fragrance being designed for the human nose.
bath time.
We feature the same fragrance across all our
shampoos from puppy to adult dog, making it easier
to train your pooch to positively associate the smell of
the shampoo with a positive experience, such as a tasty
treat. Further helping to reduce bath time anxiety.
Our shampoos are natural, vegan with no nasties,
featuring a prebio base to promote a healthy skin & coat.
Formulated by coat type ensuring your dog gets the
The canine sense of smell is 40xs stronger than shampoo they really need. Whether its soft bouncy curls
ours, remember the effect of granny’s perfume had on for your Cockapoo, sleek shiny coat for your Whippet,
your nose, it is the same problem dogs face with many silky glossy shine for your Spaniel, or cleansing your
shampoo fragrances. Labradors coat we have got you covered
DotDotPet’s conditioning shampoos A final bonus the shampoos come in a 280ml easy
feature a pet loved scent that has been grip bottle with a no leak cap meaning you don’t waste
designed with your pup’s nose in a drop.
mind, chosen & approved DotDotPet making bath time simpler even with wet
by 100s of dogs, hands and a wet dog!
We also have a range of bamboo dog bath towels
and natural biodegradable dog towels to use post bath
time or muddy walks.

Buy now from: www.dotdotpet.com

For more information email: [email protected]
Tiktok: @dotdotpet
Instagram: @dotdot.pet

095
PAWER WATER

A
new ground-breaking canine wellness support bones, joints and skin, as well as vitamins C
supplement is now available. Pawer & E and antioxidants (grapeseed extract) to support
Water aims to optimize overall well-being the immune system and promote overall vitality. Each
for our beloved four-legged friends by ingredient is meticulously selected to ensure maximum
transforming the way that they hydrate, efficacy and safety.
ensuring that dogs receive the vital "Our mission at Pawer Water is to provide
hydration necessary for a healthy and dog owners with a reliable solution to
active lifestyle. optimize hydration and improve the
Water plays a critical role in well-being of their furry companions,"
maintaining a dog's health, but said Nathalie Ohana, Founder of
sometimes our furry companions Pawer Water. "We understand the
don't drink enough to stay properly importance of proper hydration
hydrated. Dehydration can lead to a for a dog's overall health, and we're
range of issues, including lethargy, excited to introduce a supplement
decreased organ function, and that not only addresses this need
other serious health complications. but also enhances their daily lives.
Pawer Water addresses this concern by It’s not just about drinking, it’s about
providing a premium supplement designed drinking well."
to enhance the hydration process and promote Pawer Water is easy to incorporate into a
optimal wellness. dog's routine. Simply add the supplement to their
Pawer Water's formula is carefully crafted with a regular drinking water. Its delicious natural chicken
range of “pawerful” ingredients, specifically chosen broth flavour is specially crafted to appeal to dogs'
to support canine hydration and wellness needs. This palates, encouraging them to drink more water. With
innovative blend includes electrolytes (potassium & Pawer Water, pet owners can have peace of mind
sodium) to replenish essential minerals lost during knowing their furry friends are boosting the hydration
exercise or hot weather, collagen & hyaluronic acid to they need to thrive.

096
 PAWER WATER

Key features and benefits of Pawer Water

1. Optimal Hydration: Pawer Water is designed to

enhance hydration and encourage dogs to drink more
water, keeping them properly hydrated and promoting
overall health.
2. Electrolyte Replenishment: Our supplement contains
essential electrolytes that support hydration by replacing
minerals lost during physical activity or warm weather.
3. Bones & Skin Support: Our hero ingredient, collagen
aims to support healthy skin, bone development, healthy
joints for increased mobility and beautiful glossy fur!
4. Immune Support: Our formula includes vitamins and
antioxidants to help dogs stay on top of their game.
5. Easy Integration: The supplement can be easily
added to a dog's regular water bowl, making it simple to
incorporate into their daily routine.
6. Pawlicious Flavour: Pawer Water features a mouth-
watering natural chicken broth taste that appeals to dogs,
encouraging them to drink more water!
7. Recyclable packaging: We work hard to be as
sustainable as we can. We manufacturer locally in the UK,
our sticks are recyclable and so is our outer packaging.

RRP: £2.50/unit - £22.50 for 10 X sticks (1month

hydration). Pawer Water has already been recognised
by the pet industry having made the finals of both the
PetQuip and PIF Awards for new product innovation.
Pawer Water is now available for purchase on their
official website at www.amazon.co.uk/pawerwater
and premium retailers around the UK. You can also
visit their website: www.pawerwater.com.

“Pawer Water is designed to enhance

hydration and encourage dogs to
drink more water”

097
NEXT MONTH

NEXT MONTH
Edition Dog Magazine: Issue 64 is full of in-depth and detailed
information written by professionals. Each feature focuses on your dog’s
health and wellbeing with a dash of light-hearted stories and activities.

ISSUE 64
31ST JAN
2024

CONTACT US: whole is forbidden without the consent of the publishers

EDITORIAL: Jennifer Dow – [email protected]
ADVERTISING: Mark Dow – [email protected] DISCLAIMER:
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098
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