{"id": "6896ae4da7b1-0", "text": "Owning and caring for a dog \nis very rewarding, but it is a \nbig responsibility and a      \nlong -term commitment in \nterms of care and cost.  \n \nTypically, dogs live for around \n14-16 years, but many may \nlive for longer, and some \nbreeds for less.  \n \nThere is no single \u2018perfect \u2019 way to \ncare for all dogs because every dog \nand every situation is different.  \n \nIt\u2019s up to you how you look after \nyour dog, but you must take        \nreasonable steps to ensure that \nyou meet all their needs.  \n \nDo you know the five key things \nyour dog needs to lead a healthy \nand happy life?  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n They are called the five animal     \nwelfare freedoms and the law         \nrequires you to provide these for \nall of your pets.  \n \n1. A safe & comfortable       \nenvironment - give them    \na safe, clean and suitable \nplace to live.  \n2. A suitable diet  & fresh    \nwater  - feed them the \nright food for their age, \nhealth status and lifestyle.  \n3. The ability to express   \nnormal behaviour   \n4. A stress and fear free life  \n5. Good health care - keep \nyour pet in good health                         \nand seek veterinary       \nattention if they \u2019re ill or    \ninjured.            \n2", "source": "Caring-for-your-dog-leaflet-PDF.pdf"}
{"id": "b94eda590197-0", "text": "There are a few simple ways to \nkeep your dog happy, safe and \nhealthy at home.  \n \n1.1 A cosy bed to sleep in  \n \nDog beds come in many different \nshapes and sizes. Round or oval \nbeds with a side are great for  \nwhen your dogs wants to curl up,   \nwhereas mattress beds can be \ngood for lying flat.  \n \nIt\u2019s important to make sure you       \nprovide the right size bed for your \ndog. It should be large enough for \nhim to lie down comfortably and \nstretch out his legs if he wants to.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \nEach dog will have their              \npreferences but it is always best to \ngive him a couple of options in \ndifferent locations - that way you \ncan be sure he will always be    \ncomfy and won \u2019t put continuous \npressure on any joints. Dogs need \ntheir rest so make sure he is left \nalone when sleeping.  Dog crates  \n \nDog crates are a great way to  \ncreate a safe den for your new \ndog as well as having somewhere \nto put your dog securely for a few \nhours if needed.  \nA dog crate needs to be big \nenough for your puppy or dog    \nto stand up and turn around in  \ncomfortably.  \n \nDogs hate to go to the toilet in \ntheir own bed, so a crate is a \ngreat toilet -training aid, in those \nfirst few weeks when your puppy \nor dog is adjusting to their new \nroutine.  \n \nYou can also use a crate to \ntransport your dog safely in your \nvehicle.  \n  1. Safe & comfortable environment  \n3", "source": "Caring-for-your-dog-leaflet-PDF.pdf"}
{"id": "43a1930b6db0-0", "text": "1.2 Keeping dogs inside or \noutside  \n \nWe always advise against keeping \ndogs outside because it can be very \ndifficult to meet their needs.  \nLiving in a cold or wet place with no \ncomfort, company or affection can \ncause a dog to suffer and may lead \nto illness.  \n \n \nDogs are sociable animals and need \nto be around you and your family \nso should be kept indoors, with  \naccess outdoors to go to the toilet \nand play in the garden/yard.  1.3 Access outside to go to \nthe toilet  \n \nOn average,  dogs need to go  \noutside at least 3 to 5 times per \nday to have the opportunity to       \nrelieve themselves.  \n \nWe recommend that adult  dogs \ngo no more than 4 -6 hours       \nbetween trips  outdoors during \nthe day and evening.  \n \nAs soon as you get up in the \nmorning you will need to let your \ndog outside to relieve himself. \nYour dog should not be expected \nto hold himself for more than 7 -8 \nhours overnight.  \n \nPuppies wont be able to hold \nthemselves for more than a few \nhours at a time so you will need \nto get up during the night to let \nthem out.  \n \nSenior dogs will also find it more \ndifficult to hold themselves as \nthey get older.  \n   4", "source": "Caring-for-your-dog-leaflet-PDF.pdf"}
{"id": "5c8fb10e1003-0", "text": "1.4 Safety from poisonous \nplants, household items  \nand other dangers  \n \nThere is an endless list of plants \nthat are poisonous to dogs. It is \nbest to keep an eye on your dog \nwhen he is out, and avoid letting \nhim chew on anything.  \n \n \nIf you see your dog chewing a \nplant, distract him with his             \nfavourite toy, as chasing him and \nshouting can convert plant    \nchewing into a dangerous game.  \n \nAzalea, daffodils, dieffenbachia, \nrhododendron, sago palm and \nyew are among the more toxic \nplants encountered.  \n \nHorse chestnut twigs, leaves, and \nconkers can also be poisonous.  \n \n Chemical Poisons  \n \nKeep all cleaning and garden     \nchemicals safely shut away, and \nkeep your dog out of the way \nwhen using them.  \n \nAlways keep your dog away from \ndomestic products such as paint, \nand varnish removers, household \ncleaning products, rust remover, \nglue and fire extinguisher          \nchemicals as they can all cause   \npoisoning.  \n \nThe fumes from products such     \nas varnish and paint remover can   \nalso be dangerous, so don \u2019t let \nyour dog in the room when you  \nare using them, and wait until the \nfumes have dispersed before \nletting him back in.   \n \nSome types of weed killers (those \ncontaining paraquat) are extremely \ndangerous for pets and humans \nalike.  \n5", "source": "Caring-for-your-dog-leaflet-PDF.pdf"}
{"id": "97bf72b73a3f-0", "text": "Antifreeze is extremely    \ntoxic \u2013 store and dispose   \nof it safely.  \n  \nRat and mice poisons are        \nanother hazard for dogs \u2013 both \nthrough eating the bait, and \nfrom eating poisoned rodents. \nMany of these poisons are       \ncoloured for easy identification, \nso if you have seen the bait, \nmake a note of the colour.  \n \nSlug pellets particularly those        \ncontaining metaldehyde are            \npoisonous.  \n \nEither use a non -toxic form of     \nslug control, or cover treated      \nareas with chicken wire so that \npets cannot get to them.  \n \nNemaslug and Growing Success \nslug killer are safer alternatives.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Certain human foods are    \npoisonous to dogs  \n\uf0b7 Chocolate, coffee and caffeine.  \n\uf0b7 Macadamia nuts.  \n\uf0b7 Grapes, raisins and currants.  \n\uf0b7 Onion, garlic and chives.  \n\uf0b7 Alcohol.  \nThere are more but these are \nthe most common.  \nMake sure these are kept out \nof reach at all times.  \nMedications  \n \nMedications that treat human \nmedical conditions can make pets \nvery sick. Never give your pet any \nmedication, including over -the-\ncounter medications, unless    \ndirected by your vet.  \n \nAs a rule, all medicines should be \ntightly closed and stored securely \nand away from pets.  \n6", "source": "Caring-for-your-dog-leaflet-PDF.pdf"}
{"id": "e17d46a07231-0", "text": "Puppies need more calories     \nbecause they have so much \ngrowing to do and senior dogs \nneed fewer calories as they are \nless active.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \nTo ensure your dog gets all the          \nnutrients they need you will need \nto feed them wet or dry          \ncommercially made dog food.  \n \nThere \u2019s a wide range of products \nnow available, in either dry or \nwet form, but whatever prepared \nfood you choose, always read the \nmanufacturer \u2019s instructions.  \n \nFeed your dog every day,        \npreferably splitting the daily     \nration into several small meals \nthroughout the day (unless      \nadvised otherwise by your vet).  \n \n2. Healthy diet  \n \nYour dog needs a well -balanced \ndiet to stay fit and healthy as well \nas access to clean drinking water \nat all times.  \n \nHow much your dog needs to eat \nwill depend on things such as age, \nhow active they are and their   \ngeneral health.  \n \nIf they eat more or less food than \nnecessary, they will become          \noverweight/underweight and may \nsuffer.  \n \nDogs of different ages have     \ndifferent nutritional requirements. \nOne of the best ways of ensuring \nyour dog has the right nutrients is \nto feed it according to its \u2018life \nstage \u2019.  \n \nPuppy  \nAdult  \nSenior  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n7", "source": "Caring-for-your-dog-leaflet-PDF.pdf"}
{"id": "8f766c102240-0", "text": "Treats are a nice surprise for your \ndog but they should be given in  \nmoderation or he may pile on the \npounds!  \n \nTry to stick to dog food treats  \nrather than leftovers or raw \nmeat, although a little bit of    \nwell cooked fresh chicken or fish \nis okay.  \n \nYou can also give your dog \nhealthy treats such as carrot \nsticks and celery.  Food should be placed in an area \nwhere the dog feels safe.  \n \nIf you have more than one dog \nfeed them far away from each   \nother - even if they are good \nfriends. This will stop them \neating each others food and  \nprevent any arguments or food \nguarding behaviour developing.  \n \nAlways ask your vet for advice  \non what and how much to feed \nyour dog, and once you \u2019ve found \na balanced diet which suits \nthem, stick to it.  \n   \nIf you decide to change the dogs \ndiet, you will need to change it \ngradually over 5 -7 days by     \nmixing the new food in with the \nold.  \n \nChanging diets suddenly can lead \nto upset stomachs.  \n \nAsk your vet for advice if you \nneed to change your dog \u2019s diet \ndue to their age or health     \nproblems.  \n \nIf your dog eats dry food, using     \nfeeding balls to give some, or all, \nof your dog \u2019s daily food ration \ncan help to lessen boredom and      \nprovides some exercise.  \n \n \n \n8", "source": "Caring-for-your-dog-leaflet-PDF.pdf"}
{"id": "4f86b64efae0-0", "text": "If your dog stops eating  \n \n\uf0b7 Try offering a range of      \ndifferent wet and dry foods at \ndifferent times - making sure \nyou introduce new foods \nslowly.  \n \n\uf0b7 Try offering wet food at room \ntemperature rather than \nstraight from the fridge - in \ngeneral, dogs prefer this.  \n \n\uf0b7 Try tempting a fussy dog by    \nwarming food up a little to         \nincrease the aroma - make  \nsure it is not too hot!  \n \n\uf0b7 Try sitting down with your \ndog, stroking him to try and \nencourage him to eat.  \n \nMost importantly get him \nchecked by your vet as he may \nhave something wrong with his \nteeth, which is causing him \npain.  \n \nWater  \n \nDogs that are fed on an entirely \ndry diet tend to drink more    \nwater but if your dogs drinking \nhabits change, e.g. he is           \nnoticeably drinking more water \nor less, this may be an indication \nof a medical problem so contact \nyour vet.  Weight watch  \n \nThere are a few simple regular \nchecks you can make yourself to    \nhelp check that your dog is a \nhealthy weight:  \n \n\uf0b7 Make sure you can see and feel \nthe outline of your dog \u2019s ribs     \nwithout excess fat covering.  \n \n\uf0b7 Your dog \u2019s belly should be \ntucked up when viewed from \nthe side.  \n \n\uf0b7 You should be able to see and \nfeel your dog \u2019s waist and it \nshould be clearly visible when \nviewed from above.  \n \n\uf0b7 If you are in any doubt about", "source": "Caring-for-your-dog-leaflet-PDF.pdf"}
{"id": "4f86b64efae0-1", "text": "viewed from above.  \n \n\uf0b7 If you are in any doubt about \nyour dog \u2019s weight, always talk \nyour vet.  \n \nSome dogs are simply fussy eaters \nbut they may also stop eating        \nbecause of stress or illness.  \n \n \n9", "source": "Caring-for-your-dog-leaflet-PDF.pdf"}
{"id": "50fc284ad1e7-0", "text": "Dog behaviour can be puzzling to \nboth new and experienced dog \nowners. Our canine friends don \u2019t \noperate with the same                \nmotivations as we do, so their    \nactions don \u2019t always make sense \nto us.    \n \n3.1 Enough exercise  \n \nThe most important thing to do \nwith your dog is to make sure \nyou have time to walk him at \nleast once a day.  \nThey need exercise and a change \nof scene. Being let out into a       \ngarden or yard is not enough. If \nyou cannot manage this every \nday you will need to find a dog \nwalker.  \nWhen walking - vary the route \nand allow the dog to explore all \nthe new smells.  \n \n \n \n \n \n If dogs aren't walked enough, they \nmay develop heart problems,    \nbecome overweight, or develop \ndestructive tendencies.  \nMost dog behaviour problems   \noccur due to a lack of exercise \nand/or mental stimulation.  \nDifferent breeds will need different \nlevels of exercise and older dogs \nwill need shorter but more          \nfrequent walks.  \nYou will know if you are providing \nenough exercise for your dog if he \nis calm and settled at home.  \n10 3. Ability to express normal behaviour", "source": "Caring-for-your-dog-leaflet-PDF.pdf"}
{"id": "1930bf50bf27-0", "text": "When you have taken on a new dog \nremember not to over walk him \nstraight away. They need to build \nstamina the same way humans do, \nso you want to take it easy on them \nat first, especially if they are        \noverweight.  \nDogs don \u2019t just need physical        \nexercise for a healthy body. Their \nbrains also need to be stimulated \nthrough games, toys and other      \ndevices.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \nThey want to investigate and         \ndiscover using their brains and   \nsenses. Exposing your dog to new \nsituations, sights and smells is a \ngood way to enrich their day.  \nFinding things to do with your dog  \nis important. Like children, dogs      \nbecome bored easily and can turn  \nto undesirable behaviour to relieve \nthat boredom.  \n There are many fun things to do \nwith your dog. Here are some   \nexamples:  \n\uf0b7 Agility  \n\uf0b7 Hiking across country or coastal \nroutes   \n\uf0b7 Day trips  - Most dogs love to \nride in the car. Take your dog \nalong if you \u2019re visiting friends or \nfamily.   \n\uf0b7 Freestyle musical dance  \n\uf0b7 Flyball  \n\uf0b7 Frisbee/fetch games  \n\uf0b7 Nose work  - A fairly new sport \ncalled scent work uses the   \namazing capabilities of dogs   \nnoses and accommodates        \nalmost every type of dog.  \n\uf0b7 Obedience training  - All dogs \nshould receive some obedience \ntraining. How far you take it is \nup to you \u2013 some people want \ntheir dogs to compete in serious \nobedience trials, while others", "source": "Caring-for-your-dog-leaflet-PDF.pdf"}
{"id": "1930bf50bf27-1", "text": "their dogs to compete in serious \nobedience trials, while others \njust want a dog who will obey \nsimple cues in daily life. In either \ncase, both you and your dog will \nenjoy the benefits of better \ncommunication and the          \nincreased bond between you \nthat results from time spent   \ntogether teaching, learning,    \nand practicing.  \n     11", "source": "Caring-for-your-dog-leaflet-PDF.pdf"}
{"id": "c7b4e4725440-0", "text": "\uf0b7 Tracking  - Playing hide -and-seek \nwith a toy or item of clothing can \nbe a tracking challenge for your \ndog.  \n\uf0b7 Trick training  - Using clicker \ntraining or lure training (using \ntreats for motivation) to teach \nyour dog to do tricks is a great \nway to spend time with your \ndog, improve your relationship, \nand make obedience training \neven more fun.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n\uf0b7 Work together - Dogs like jobs \nand to have something to do. \nThis is especially important to \nsome breeds, such as collies, \nlabs/retrievers and spaniels. So \nwork together with your dog, \nand find him a \"job\". This can be \nas simple as playing fetch and \nretrieve.  \n \nWhen you go to the dog park, \nmake sure to always pack an  \nobject for your dog to retrieve \nagain and again.  \nRemember, your dog will love \nspending time with you, so get out \nthere with your canine companion \nand have some fun!  \nDogs like routine - A good way to \nmake him feel safe and secure is \nto be reliable in your actions. Try \nto feed him at regular times. He'll \nalso appreciate knowing when he \ncan expect his next walk. But \ndon't worry - he won't mind a \nspontaneous game of fetch!  \n \n3.2 Socialisation  \n \nDogs need to be socialised from a \nyoung age, which means gradually             \nintroducing them to everyday \nsights, sounds, smells, different \npeople of all ages and other pets", "source": "Caring-for-your-dog-leaflet-PDF.pdf"}
{"id": "c7b4e4725440-1", "text": "sights, sounds, smells, different \npeople of all ages and other pets   \nin your home.  \n \n \n12", "source": "Caring-for-your-dog-leaflet-PDF.pdf"}
{"id": "a974c420c6db-0", "text": "It is also extremely important to \nmake sure puppies are handled    \ngently as much as possible.  \n \nThis is one of the most important \nthings for a young puppy to        \nexperience, especially in the first \nten weeks of their life.  \n \nGood, early socialisation leads to \nfriendly, well -adjusted adult dogs.  \n \nSadly, without positive early      \nexperiences, dog can become \nnervous, which often leads to \nproblem behaviour, including    \naggression.  \n \nIf your dog enjoys the company of \nother dogs then try and get        \ntogether with other dog owners \nand their dogs as often as you can.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n 3.3 What \u2019s normal behaviour \nfor my dog and how can I  \nencourage it?  \n \nThe way a dog behaves depends \non their age, breed, personality \nand past experiences \u2013 frightening \nexperiences and punishment can \nlead to behaviour problems and \nsuffering.  \n \nIn general dogs are playful animals \nand enjoy having fun with toys, \npeople and other dogs.  \n \nPlaying with toys  \nToys and games fall into four main           \ncategories:  \n \n\uf0b7 Tug of war \u2013 toys to use include \nraggers and rubber rings.  \n\uf0b7 Chase and retrieve \u2013 use balls \nand Kongs on rope.  \n\uf0b7 Hide, seek and search \u2013 can be \nplayed with people, toys or \nfood.  \n\uf0b7 Pounce and shake \u2013 squeaky \ntoys encourage this type of play.  \n13", "source": "Caring-for-your-dog-leaflet-PDF.pdf"}
{"id": "2d8735389cea-0", "text": "Whatever toys you use make sure \nthey are suitable for your dog.  \n \nCheck the toys regularly to ensure \nthere are no small parts that could \nbe chewed off and swallowed.  \n \nHave a selection of toys and swap \nthem every few days to keep your \ndog interested.  \n \nBasic rules of play  \n \nBefore you begin to play make \nsure you can easily take things \naway from your dog. If not, teach \nthe 'leave' command.  \uf031\uf02e Don\u2019t play rough and tumble \nwrestling games or allow your \ndog to chase children. Both \nare exciting for your dog but \ncan encourage games that are \nout of your control.  \n\uf032\uf02e Keep toys below waist height \nso that you don \u2019t encourage \nyour dog to jump up.  \n\uf033\uf02e Have frequent, daily, play   \nsessions at home and when \nout for walks.  \n\uf034\uf02e Play in short bursts of up to \nfive minutes and finish whilst \nyour dog is still keen to play.  \n\uf035\uf02e When playing use an exciting \nvoice with lots of praise and      \nencouragement.  \n\uf036\uf02e For dogs that are keen to play,  \nonly start the game when they \nare doing something you want \n\u2013 such as lying down quietly. \nThis will encourage good      \nbehaviour.  \n\uf037\uf02e Tidy toys away at the end of \neach play session.  \n\uf038\uf02e Never force your dog to play.  \n  14", "source": "Caring-for-your-dog-leaflet-PDF.pdf"}
{"id": "41dd10980f3c-0", "text": "It is different from puppy teething \nsince it happens after all the      \nneedle -like puppy teeth have    \nfallen out.  \nAdolescent dogs often have an \nuncontrollable urge to chew, \nwhich could be because of         \ndiscomfort in the gums as their \nadult teeth are settling into the \njawbone.  \nWhy do dogs chew?  \n \nAdolescent chewing also occurs \nas young dogs attempt to explore \ntheir environment and discover \nnew things.  \nReasons include the following.  \n1. Boredom  \u2013 dogs left alone for \nlong periods or not getting \nenough mental and physical    \nstimulation are likely to become \nbored. Working breeds have     \nnaturally high activity levels and \nbecome easily bored in the wrong \nhome. This can lead to destructive \nbehaviour.  \n \n \n \n \nDigging   \n \nDogs like to make dens \u2013 either \nout of boredom or to make a nice \nspot to lie down. Digging is a     \nnatural tendency for dogs.   \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \nIf you have the room, create a \nspot for your dog to dig, like a \nsandbox.  \n \nPlace your dog \u2019s toys or treats in \nthe box and encourage your dog \nto dig in it by digging in the box \nyourself.  \n \nPeriodically turn the dirt over or \nplace new earth in the sandbox to \nkeep it exciting for them.   \n \nChewing  \n \nAdolescent chewing commonly \noccurs in dogs between              \npuppyhood and adulthood at 7 -12 \nmonths of age, and can last for up", "source": "Caring-for-your-dog-leaflet-PDF.pdf"}
{"id": "41dd10980f3c-1", "text": "puppyhood and adulthood at 7 -12 \nmonths of age, and can last for up \nto six months.  \n15", "source": "Caring-for-your-dog-leaflet-PDF.pdf"}
{"id": "8e8e9ed0824c-0", "text": "4. An unbalanced diet  \n \nFor example, if not getting enough  \ncalcium your dog may try to          \ncompensate by chewing stones or \nplaster. All dogs should be fed        \naccording to their age, weight, \nhealth status and the amount of \nexercise they receive.  \n \n5. Distress at being left alone    \nSome dogs cannot cope with being          \nseparated from their owners and    \nare destructive when left.  \n \nThe most important thing to             \nremember is that dogs need to \nchew so you must give them \nsomething safe and durable for \nthem to chew on, otherwise they \nwill find something inappropriate \nto chew instead!  \n 2. Puppy teething   \n \nThis occurs between three and \nseven months of age when      \npuppies have an uncontrollable \nurge to chew to relieve some of \nthe discomfort in their gums. \nChewing also facilitates the       \nremoval of puppy teeth and the \neruption of the adult set.  \n \n3. Attention seeking  \n \nIf your dog learns that chewing \nsomething forbidden (such as the \nTV remote) makes you get up and \nchase round the room, he quickly \nlearns that this is a great way to \nget attention.  \n \n \n16", "source": "Caring-for-your-dog-leaflet-PDF.pdf"}
{"id": "4a998d83b7a0-0", "text": "A new home, moving house and \nnew additions to a family of the \nhuman and animal variety can be \nvery stressful for a dog.  \n \nNo matter how well behaved and \ngood natured your dog is, it is     \nimportant to always be on the \nlookout for warning signs that    \nyour dog might be feeling stressed, \nscared or just uncomfortable.   \n \nAll dogs give warning signals before \nactually biting, so it is important for \nyou to learn to recognise the signs \nwhen they are trying to tell you \nsomething important!  \n \nIt therefore becomes          \nnecessary for owners to       \nappreciate the subtle signs   \nof stress in their own dogs in   \norder to provide the best   \npossible care.  \n \nChronic stress can suppress  the         \nimmune response, causing a broad \nrange of illnesses.  When dogs are stressed  and      \nnervous they exhibit many       \ndifferent kinds of behaviour that \neither help relieve the stress they \nare feeling or appease a            \nperceived threat.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \nWhile dogs like humans, yawn \nwhen they are tired, they are also \nmuch more likely to yawn when \nthey are nervous.  \n \nLip licking does not always mean    \na dog is hungry or has just eaten   \neither, but is a very clear stress  \nsignal that is performed when a \ndog is nervous or  fearfull.  \n17 4. A stress and fear free life", "source": "Caring-for-your-dog-leaflet-PDF.pdf"}
{"id": "e34263ff1073-0", "text": "\uf0b7 Yawning  can be a sign that a dog   \nis tired, but it also signals stress.  \n\uf0b7 Lip licking or tongue flicking . Dogs \nlick their lips when nervous.  \n\uf0b7 Brief body freezing \u2013 the dog is still \nfor a few seconds before reacting.  \n\uf0b7 Body freezing \u2013 the dog freezes  \nuntil the threat goes away or he  \ndecides to use fight or flight.  \n\uf0b7 'Whale Eye' \u2013 the dog turns his \nhead away but keeps looking at   \nthe perceived threat, showing the \nwhites of his eyes.  \n\uf0b7 Furrowed brow , curved eyebrows \n\u2013 caused by facial tension.  \n\uf0b7 Tense jaw \u2013 the mouth is closed, \nand the dog is preparing for action.  \n \n \uf0b7 Low tail carriage \u2013 indicates   \ndiscomfort and uncertainty.  \n\uf0b7 Twitching whiskers \u2013 caused    \nby facial tension.  \n\uf0b7 Shaking  \u2013 caused by adrenaline \nrelease.  \n\uf0b7 Drooling  \u2013 stress can cause     \nexcessive salivation.  \n\uf0b7 Lack of focus \u2013 an anxious dog \nfinds learning difficult.  \n\uf0b7 Sweaty paws \u2013 dogs sweat \nthrough their foot pads.  \n\uf0b7 Hair standing on end \u2013 the hair \non a dog \u2019s neck and spine stands \non end (like human goose \nbumps), making the dog appear \nbigger while releasing odour \nfrom the glands contained in the \ndog\u2019s hair follicles.  Here are some signs of stress you'll want to watch out \nfor in your dog, especially if they occur suddenly.  \n     18", "source": "Caring-for-your-dog-leaflet-PDF.pdf"}
{"id": "a7f04063e56b-0", "text": "Why are some dogs shy or    \nfearful?  \n \nShy or fearful behaviour is most often \ncaused by negative associations made \nin early life.  \n \nIf a dog doesn \u2019t interact with people \noften or experiences abuse or trauma, \nhe may be afraid to trust  humans.   \n \nOther shy or fearful dogs may be    \nthat way simply because they \u2019re      \ngenetically predisposed to be that \nway.  \n \n \n     19 What are common fear triggers?  \n \n\uf0b7 A loud noise or a quick         \nmovement.  \n\uf0b7 A strange environment.  \n\uf0b7 A strange person or animal.  \n\uf0b7 An active child.  \n\uf0b7 A stressful event, such as a \nmove or a trip to the vet.  \n \nWhen dogs feel threatened, they       \nusually respond in three ways to \nthe object, person or situation \nthey perceive as a threat: fight, \nflee or freeze. Each dog has his/\nher preferred way of dealing with \na crisis .", "source": "Caring-for-your-dog-leaflet-PDF.pdf"}
{"id": "e0db45808e7e-0", "text": "What you can do to help    \nyour dog cope  \n \nFood is a great motivator for dogs, \nso if yours is afraid of something or \nsomeone in the house, use treats to \nbuild a positive association and \nconfidence.  \n \nKeep any contact with the fear      \nstimulus to a minimum or eradicate \nthe fear stimulus altogether if        \npossible.  \n \nKeep your dogs routine as regular \nas possible. Dogs feel more         \nconfident if they know when to  \nexpect daily feeding, playing,     \ncuddling and grooming.  \nContact a professional animal         \nbehaviourist to help you.  \n \n What not to do  \n \nDon't punish your dog for his   \nfearful behaviour.  \nAnimals associate punishment \nwith what they're doing at the \ntime they are punished, so your \ndogs is likely to associate any        \npunishment you give him with you \nand he still won't understand why \nhe's being punished.  \n \nDon't force your dog to experience \nthe object or situation that is      \ncausing him fear.  \nDon\u2019t hug or let your children hug \nyour dog. It is a very invasive thing \nto do that doesn't give your dog \nfreedom to choose how close he \nwants to be to you.  \n     20 PLEASE DON \u2019T HUG YOUR DOG", "source": "Caring-for-your-dog-leaflet-PDF.pdf"}
{"id": "8b831274e687-0", "text": "5.1 Vaccinations  \n \nVaccinations give protection for your \ndog and peace of mind for you. They \nprotect your dog against diseases \nwhich can cause pain, distress and \nare often fatal. They also prevent  \ndiseases from being passed on to  \nother animals.  \n \nWhich diseases do vaccines protect \nagainst?  \n \n\uf0b7 Canine distemper virus, a virus \nwith no known cure.  \n\uf0b7 Infectious canine hepatitis , which  \nusually affects dogs less than two \nyears old.  \n\uf0b7 Leptospirosis, a bacterial disease \nspread via infected urine or               \ncontaminated water.  \n\uf0b7 Canine parvovirus , a highly         \ncontagious viral disease that \u2019s       \nespecially severe in puppies.  \n\uf0b7 Canine parainfluenza , which is a \ncause of \u2018kennel cough \u2019. \n \n \n Annual vaccinations for the first \nfour illnesses above are required \nand if your dog will regularly visit \nboarding kennels, your vet will \nalso recommend they are fully \nvaccinated against kennel cough.  \nYour puppy should receive a    \nprimary vaccination course early \nin life, followed by \u2018booster \u2019        \nvaccinations and a health check \nevery year.  \n \nA rabies vaccination will be \nneeded if you plan to take your \ndog abroad.  \n 5. Good health care  \n     21", "source": "Caring-for-your-dog-leaflet-PDF.pdf"}
{"id": "b467b44f3df7-0", "text": "5.2 Grooming  \n \nGrooming gives you some valuable \nbonding time with your dog as well \nas providing a great opportunity to \nkeep an eye out for parasites in \nthe dogs coat.  \n  \nLong -haired dogs should be \nbrushed daily to stop their coat \nbecoming tangled. If they are not \nregularly groomed fur can become \nmatted and uncomfortable. These \nmats may need to be removed  \nunder anaesthetic by a vet.  \n \nShort -haired dogs will probably \nonly need to be groomed once or \ntwice a week.  \n \n \n     22 Groom and wash your dog   \nMake sure you buy a quality brush \nthat fits the needs of your dog's \ncoat. You should also be sure to \nrinse your dog off with warm water \nwhen ever they get too dirty, but \ndon\u2019t shampoo too often, as your \ndog's skin may become too           \nirritated.  \nIf they don't like bathing, be sure  \nto reward them afterwards. If \nyou're having trouble grooming \nyour dog by yourself, or they have  \na difficult coat to look after, take \nthem to a groomer every six to \neight weeks, depending on how  \nfast their hair and nails grow.  \nKeep an eye out for red bumps, dry \nflakes of skin and flea droppings.", "source": "Caring-for-your-dog-leaflet-PDF.pdf"}
{"id": "c31363e07e91-0", "text": "Did you know your female dog \ndoesn \u2019t need to have a season litter \nbefore she is spayed? This is a very \nold fashioned view from misguided \nold fashioned vets!  \n \n5.4 Preventing parasites  \n \nThe most common parasites in \ndogs are fleas, ticks and worms?  \n \nSigns include:  \n\uf0b7 Fur loss.  \n\uf0b7 Inflamed (reddened) skin.  \n\uf0b7 Scratching, biting or licking more \nthan usual.  \n\uf0b7 Pot-bellied appearance.  \n\uf0b7 Vomiting and diarrhoea.  \n\uf0b7 Presence of parasites.  \n \nMy dog/puppy is showing some of \nthese signs \u2013 what should I do?  \n \nFirst take your dog/puppy to see your \nvet so they can advise on the correct \ncourse of treatment as there are so \nmany different types.  \n \nPreventive parasite treatments       \ninclude sprays, tablets, injections and \n\u2018spot -on\u2019 preparations.  \n \nTreatments available \u2018over the    \ncounter \u2019 (for example, from pet \nshops and supermarkets) may not be \nas effective as those available from \nyour vet \u2013 so bear this in mind if you \nwant your pet to be properly          \nprotected.  5.3 Neutering  \n \nWhat is neutering?  \n \nIn male animals, the testicles are \nremoved \u2013 this is called \n\u2018castration \u2019. In female animals, the \novaries and the uterus (womb) are \nremoved \u2013 this is called \u2018spaying \u2019. \n \nWhy do it?  \n \nNeutering stops dogs from having     \nunwanted puppies and prevents", "source": "Caring-for-your-dog-leaflet-PDF.pdf"}
{"id": "c31363e07e91-1", "text": "Why do it?  \n \nNeutering stops dogs from having     \nunwanted puppies and prevents \ncertain illnesses, such as cancer of \nthe testicles, ovaries or womb, or \npyometra (an infection of the \nwomb which can be fatal).  \n \nPuppies should be spayed when \nthey are at least 6 months old. At \nthis age females will start to \nattract the attention of males and \ncould become pregnant.   \n \nPuppies will mate with their     \nsiblings and parents, causing     \ninbreeding!  \n \nNeutering can make male dogs less \naggressive and reduce or eradicate \n\u2018humping \u2019 behaviour. Neutered male \ndogs are also less likely to wander off \nand stray, which can reduce their \nchances of getting hit by a car or    \nbeing picked up by a dog warden.  \n \n \n    23", "source": "Caring-for-your-dog-leaflet-PDF.pdf"}
{"id": "139a3ffdd085-0", "text": "Fleas  \n \nFleas are very common in dogs but \ncan be hard to spot.  \n \nIt\u2019s advisable to use preventative \ntreatment on your dog regularly for \nfleas, whether he has them or not, \nas it is far harder to deal with an \ninfestation than to prevent one.  \n   \nFleas are not just irritating, their \nsaliva is considered one of the \nmost allergenic substances on \nearth, and is the cause of a nasty \nskin disease in pets called Flea    \nAllergic Dermatitis (FAD).  \n  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \nWhen they bite, fleas ingest blood. \nIf the infestation is severe enough, \nit can cause anaemia or even kill a \nsmall puppy.  \n \nNever use a dog flea treatment on \na cat as some can be rapidly fatal \nand don \u2019t let your cat come into \ncontact with a dog that has been \ntreated for fleas until the product \nhas dried.  \n     24  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \nIf you do have a flea outbreak, \nyou will need to treat all the pets \nin the home and de -flea your \nhome too.  \n \nTreat carpets, the bottoms of \ncurtains, furniture, and your pets \nbedding with a suitable product \nrecommended by your vet.  \n \nAlways wash your pets bedding \nat a high temperature to kill off \nany parasites or bugs.  \n \nFleas are also the intermediate \nhost of the tapeworm.  \n \nTherefore it is important to     \nremember when treating your", "source": "Caring-for-your-dog-leaflet-PDF.pdf"}
{"id": "139a3ffdd085-1", "text": "host of the tapeworm.  \n \nTherefore it is important to     \nremember when treating your \ndog for fleas, to treat him for \ntapeworms too.", "source": "Caring-for-your-dog-leaflet-PDF.pdf"}
{"id": "dbe6603876a1-0", "text": "Worms  \n \nDogs can become infected with        \nvarious internal worms.  \n \nRoundworms  are the most    \ncommon type of worm affecting \ndogs and cats  in the UK.  \n \nTapeworms  can be caught from \nfleas, which can carry the larval    \nstages of the tapeworm. When \nyour pet grooms itself, it can     \naccidentally ingest a flea, which \ncan lead to a tapeworm              \ninfestation in your pet.  \n \nThere are many different         \ntreatments available and your   \nvet will be able to advise you \nabout how often to de -worm  \nyour dog and the most suitable,     \neffective product to use, which \nmay depend on your dogs          \nlifestyle.  \nTicks  \nTicks are common in woodland, \ngrassland and heath areas, but can \nalso be found in your garden if you \nlive in an area with lots of wildlife.  \nYou are most likely to come across \nticks between spring and autumn, \nbut they are active throughout the \nyear.  \nTicks don \u2019t fly or jump, but climb or \ndrop on to your dogs coat when \nthey brush past the area they are \nsitting in. Dog ticks carry diseases,  \nso it \u2019s important to remove any \nthat attach themselves to your dog \nas soon as possible. Rapid removal \nlessens the risk of disease.   \nThis can be tricky, as you need to \nbe careful not to squeeze the tick \u2019s \nbody, or allow its head to get stuck \ninside your dog. Squeezing a tick \u2019s \nbody can cause it to expel blood \nback into your dog, increasing the", "source": "Caring-for-your-dog-leaflet-PDF.pdf"}
{"id": "dbe6603876a1-1", "text": "body can cause it to expel blood \nback into your dog, increasing the \nrisk of infection.   \nTwisting them off your dog is the \nbest removal method, and pet \nshops sell handy tick -removal      \ndevices to make this easier. Ask \nyour vet for advice.  \n     25", "source": "Caring-for-your-dog-leaflet-PDF.pdf"}
{"id": "4d377f12c22b-0", "text": "5.5 Microchipping  \n \nMany pets go missing every year and, \nsadly, many are never reunited with \ntheir owners.  \n \nIdentifying your dog with a microchip \nis now required by law and gives you \na greater chance of being reunited \nwith your dog should they get lost. \nThey are also more likely to receive \nprompt veterinary care if found      \ninjured!  \n \nA microchip is a harmless radio chip \nabout the size of a grain of rice. It is \ninjected under the skin of your dog   \nin the same way as a routine               \nvaccination.  \n \nIf you adopt a dog or puppy from a \nreputable rescue centre or breeder \nthey should already be microchipped.  \n \nOnce your dog is microchipped,      \nremember to make sure your        \ncontact details are always kept up to \ndate with the microchip database.  \n  \n \n \n \n \n \nYou will also need to ensure your \ndogs wear a collar with an ID tag on it \nthat shows the owners name, home \naddress and telephone numbers.   \nThis is required by law.  5.6 Dental care  \n \nLooking after your dogs teeth is just as \nimportant as looking after our own.  \n \nDo puppies have baby and adult \nteeth?  \n \nYes - your puppy will start to lose \ntheir baby teeth around three months \nof age. You will find they want to \nchew things more so be sure to       \nprovide plenty of suitable toys for \nthem to chew. They normally have a \nfull set of adult teeth around six \nmonths of age.  \n  \nDental disease is quite common in", "source": "Caring-for-your-dog-leaflet-PDF.pdf"}
{"id": "4d377f12c22b-1", "text": "months of age.  \n  \nDental disease is quite common in \ndogs, especially as they get older.  \n \nYou should get your dogs teeth       \nregularly checked by your vet.  \n  \n  \n \n     26", "source": "Caring-for-your-dog-leaflet-PDF.pdf"}
{"id": "064a55a75bf3-0", "text": "Research pet insurance policies       \nbefore you buy and check for policy \nlimitations. Policies vary when it \ncomes to the level of cover they offer. \nIn addition, each company will apply \ntheir own conditions and exclusions to \ntheir policies.  \n \n5.8 Who should care for my \ndog if I go on holiday?  \n \nDogs can become quite stressed when \nthey are away from their owners so if \nyou are going away, try to find a      \nresponsible person to care for, and \nmeet all of your dogs welfare needs \nwithin his/her familiar home. If this \nisn\u2019t possible, your dog should be \nboarded at a reputable kennels. We \noffer a dog boarding service here at \nGables, which raises funds for the  \nwelfare work we do.  \n \nIf you are boarding your dog, check \nout the kennels in advance and make \nsure it is licensed. Good kennels will \ninsist that all animals are fully          \nvaccinated and will ask to see          \ncertificates. Also check that the       \nkennels are never left unattended.  \nTaking familiar items along when your \ndog goes into kennels e.g. your dogs \nbed and toys, can help them feel more \n\u2018at home \u2019.  \nWe hope you have found this \nleaflet useful. Please feel free to \ncontact us for more information \nor see our other leaflets for more \ndetail. We hope you enjoy your \nnew dog.  \nMany dogs do not show obvious         \ndiscomfort, although signs of dental \ndisease may include:  \n  \n\u2022 reduced appetite,  \n\u2022 halitosis (bad breath),  \n\u2022 dropping food or difficulty in eating,", "source": "Caring-for-your-dog-leaflet-PDF.pdf"}
{"id": "064a55a75bf3-1", "text": "\u2022 halitosis (bad breath),  \n\u2022 dropping food or difficulty in eating,  \n\u2022 blood -tinged saliva or drooling,  \n\u2022 unusual face rubbing or pawing at  \nthe mouth,  \n\u2022 behavioural changes, such as           \nbecoming quieter or more             \naggressive,  \n\u2022 reduced grooming,  \n\u2022 sneezing, nasal discharge or facial \nswelling.  \n \nDental disease can be painful and      \nseriously affect your dogs health and \nwelfare. Bacteria can enter the dogs \nbloodstream and affect the heart and \nkidneys. Consult your vet for more    \nadvice.  \n \n5.7 Pet insurance  \n \nAt Gables we recommend you take out \npet insurance to ensure you \u2019re able to \ncover unplanned vet bills should the \nworst happen. You might have thought \nabout routine costs, such as              \nvaccinations. But out of the ordinary \nexpenses can easily happen. Costs    \ncan rise rapidly, especially if your dog \nneeds to stay in a Vet Hospital.  \n \n \n     27", "source": "Caring-for-your-dog-leaflet-PDF.pdf"}
{"id": "bfdd70afdf24-0", "text": "Reception & Shop Opening Hours  \n \nMonday       9.00am - 4.00pm      \nTuesday       9.00am - 4.00pm      \nWednesday    9.00am - 4.00pm      \nThursday       9.00am - 4.00pm      \nFriday   9.00am - 4.00pm  \nSaturday   9.00am - 3.30pm  \nSunday   9.00am - 3.30pm     \n \nBank Holidays 9.00am - 3.30pm  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n204 Merafield Road  \nPlymouth  \nDevon  \nPL7 1UQ  \nTelephone: 01752 331602  \nEmail: info@gables.org.uk  \nWebsite: www.gables.org.uk", "source": "Caring-for-your-dog-leaflet-PDF.pdf"}