Amy Hatcher answers some of our reader’s queries about their pets.

Amy Hatcher answers some of our readers’ queries about their pets.

Q My old dog has recently died – he lived until the grand old age of 15 so I’m a bit out of touch when it comes to buying from the right breeder. What should I expect from a good breeder?A A good, ethical breeder will only sell to suitablehomes and tends to have a maximum of one or two litters per year from different bitches. A good-quality breeder will be up front about any healthproblems within the litter and be really happy to show you the breed screening records. It is also really common these days for a breeder to take up references on you to ensure you are the right home for one of their precious pups. You may fi nd the breeder won’t sell to someone who is out to work all day. We offer half-day (fi ve hour) or full day sessions where your puppy can be socialised and looked after while you are out at work, and we are happy to confi rm to breeders that a pass has beenpurchased and a start date reserved in time for the arrival of your puppy.

Q My job has recently changed and I am at home more. I’ve noticed that my dog is starting to become clingy and needy. He now barks whenever I leave him. Can you help?
A It is always very exciting when a job changesand you get to spend more time at home, but changing routine can cause untold amounts of stress on your canine companion. To ensure your dog does not get too used to you being at home make sure he or she is still shut away from you for an hour or so a day.Doodley Dogs creche can also look after your dog for just a few hours during the day or all day. This should ensure he or she remains a little independent and happily accepts being away from you.

Q My dog HATES the vet. He shakes and trembles when I am in the waiting room and then becomes very aggressive towards the vet during the consultation. He won’t let me or the vet put a muzzle on him.
A This is a common problem and it is a case of building up the dog’s confi dence within the surgery fi rst and making sure your dog does not associate the surgery with all unpleasant things. Take a few trips to see the vet just to stand and chat or just sit in the waiting room. It is vital, no matter what temperament your dog has, to get him or her used towearing a muzzle with no negative association. My dogs are all happy to wear muzzles as they see themas something positive. Don’t feel sorry for your dog if he or she has to wear a muzzle it is just a fact of life.

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