JULY 2020, FREE
POST LOCKDOWN LIFE: How to help your dog thrive DIGITAL DOC: Asking ALEXA For Veterinary Advice PLUS How one woman and dog rescued each other, the health benefits of dogs & how to deal with fleas… Vet Photo by Sharon McCutcheon from Pexels
Need Vet Advice? Ask ALEXA!
The UK’s 12 million pet owners are now able to get free veterinary advice for the first time through their Vet smart speakers. We meet the new ‘e-vets’…
Sick pup? Help is closer than ever
The UK’s 12 million pet owners are - it’s just been announced now able to get free veterinary advice for the first time through their smart speakers. The new voice assistant skill — which is available on Alexa and Google Home — uses artificial intelligence to help worried pet owners decide on a next step if their dog or cat is unwell. It has been created by Vets Now, the UK’s leading emergency vets, as part of a drive during the coronavirus crisis to make veterinary advice available to everyone without having to leave their pet’s side.
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In recent weeks, Vets Now has
Speaking about the new voice
also launched a video consultation skill, which is a first for the UK service which allows pet owners to veterinary profession, head of speak to a qualified emergency vet
clinical intelligence at Vets Now,
on their mobile, tablet or laptop,
Dave Leicester said: “With many
from the comfort of their home. If
people reluctant or not able to
their pet needs to be seen at a
leave their homes due to the
clinic they are refunded the £24
coronavirus pandemic, we're
consultation fee.
making veterinary advice accessible to everyone, through as
More than 500,000 people a
many channels as possible
month already access veterinary
including our website, video vet
help and advice on the Vets Now
service, and now smart speakers.
website, whether it be to find their “We fast-tracked our plans for the innovative voice skill in response nearest emergency vet, to access the huge bank of free vet-authored to Covid-19 as we know how much pet owners are relying on remote advice articles or for video vet veterinary advice just now — consultations.
face-to-face contact has been reduced. A quarter of all UK households own a smart speaker and reports show that almost 50% of those have been using voice apps and voice assistants — like Alexa and Google Home — more since lockdown began. Sales of chocolate have also increased during we’ve seen a huge spike in calls to quantity and type of chocolate lockdown as more of us look to our emergency contact centre and eaten. treats for comfort, leaving vets the uptake of our new video consultation service has been In this situation, the skill will work concerned about our canine friends as chocolate can be highly exceptional, with more than 500 out whether the pet has eaten a poisonous to dogs. video calls from worried pet toxic amount and, if it deems the owners since its launch in April. intoxication to be potentially dangerous, it will provide contact More information on the veterinary advice skill and “Our new voice skill is the next details and the address of the how to access it can be found step in helping pets and their nearest emergency vet. here: www.vets-now.com/ owners as much as we can during this incredibly difficult time. It’s a The skill also answers some of the smart-speaker. first release of the skill but we will most commonly-asked questions continue to build and add advice on Vets Now's website such as to it in the weeks and months 'what is pancreatitis in dogs?' and ahead.” 'what are the symptoms of kennel cough?'. The new voice skill allows pet owners to discover common All the answers on the skill were symptoms and find out treatment provided by senior emergency vets options for a small number of and more information is due to be common illnesses and added over time. emergencies via simple voice commands. Under the UK government’s For example, users can ask “Alexa, coronavirus restrictions, my dog has eaten chocolate, what veterinary practices have been should I do?” and it will respond designated as essential services with a series of questions about and vets have key worker status. the dog's breed as well as the However, while clinics and hospitals are allowed to stay open,
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DOGS: Why they’re so good for our health…
Dr. Jessica May, lead vet at video vet service, FirstVet (https:// firstvet.com/uk) As any dog owner will attest, your pup can almost always lift your mood, make you laugh or even provide you with comfort. It may come as no surprise, then, that owning a dog has been proven to boost both your mental and physical health. Dogs are, by nature, loving creatures. They fast become members of the family and are loyal companions. Naturally, then, owning a pet can reduce feelings of loneliness. According to a 2015 Harris poll, 95 percent of pet owners think of their animal as a member of the family. So, for those that live alone or lack companionship, owning a dog can be a great way to feel more supported.
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Moreover, a study by the
can have tangible benefits for
University of Sydney found
our mental health. Interaction
that dogs can help to alleviate
with dogs can boost production
loneliness amongst their
of hormones such as oxytocin,
owners and reduce negative
serotonin and dopamine,
emotions. This companionship
which can reduce stress and
help to promote a sense of
slower heart rate, more
Liverpool, 87.3 percent of dog
wellbeing.
regular breathing and even a
owners exercise for 150
reduction in muscle tension.
minutes per week, compared
As well as reducing loneliness,
with 62.7 percent of those
dogs can help people who are
Perhaps the most obvious
without a dog.
dealing with anxiety. Dogs are
health impact of owning a dog
used in many types of therapy
is an increase in physical
Walking is a brilliant low-
and as emotional support
activity. For anyone who
impact activity. It has been
animals because they can have struggles with motivation to
proven to lower blood pressure
a calming effect on those they
exercise, a dog’s enthusiasm
and reduce cholesterol and
come into contact with.
for daily walks can be
triglyceride levels, leading to
Researchers at Purdue
infectious.
overall improvements in
University and the University
cardiovascular health. In fact,
of Pennsylvania looked into the Most adult dogs should be
dog owners are 31 percent less
physical effects of owning a
walked twice a day, come rain
likely to suffer a fatal heart
pet. Their results showed a
or shine, meaning that,
attack or stroke than non-dog
reduction in blood pressure,
according to the University of
owners.
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However, fitness fanatics
make good running partners.
Owning a dog is a lot of
should be careful not to over-
Smaller dogs are often very
responsibility, but it can be
exercise their dogs, especially
enthusiastic but will naturally
hugely rewarding, too. From
young animals. During
have less tolerance for
helping us hit our daily step
lockdown, many people have taken up running with their pets, but runners should make sure to look out for when their
Brachycephalic breeds with shorter noses, such as Pugs, are also more likely to struggle with exercise due to breathing difficulties
dog starts to tire. Just
target, to boosting our welfare by being a friendly and calming presence in the home, dogs can do a lot to keep their owners happy and healthy,
like us humans, dogs need to
exercise due to their energy
particularly during these
rest their muscles, too.
levels and shorter legs.
uncertain times.
The amount of exercise your
Brachycephalic breeds with
dog can tackle depends on
shorter noses, such as Pugs,
their size and build, as well as
are also more likely to struggle
their fitness. Larger dogs with
with exercise due to breathing
longer legs - like Hungarian
difficulties, so be wary not to
Vizslas, Pointers, Border
push these types of dogs to run
Collies, and Labradors - can
too far, especially in warmer
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weather.
It’s a Scorcher And The Fleas Are Out in Force…
As the UK has been
the perfect breeding ground for
stimulated into growth by the
experiencing sweltering
the parasites to thrive.
warm weather.
temperatures of up to 27°C (77F)
Dr Karlien Heyrman, Head of Pets “In this current climate, our for Pets at Home, explained: “As
homes have become a sanctuary
exercise limitations have been
for both work and play and the
lifted and we’re enjoying longer
last thing pet owners need is a flea
weather could leave homes at
periods of time outdoors with our
infestation in the environment
risk of a flea infestation.
pets, the risk of flea eggs being
where they are spending the
carried into our homes from our
majority of their time. If left
Pets at Home is urging pet owners
dogs and cats is high. Couple this
untreated, long term flea
to regularly check their pets and
with the heatwave and pet owners
infestations can cause real
homes for fleas, as the hot and
could have a problem on their
suffering for pets - including dogs,
humid weather conditions create
hands as hidden eggs can be
cats and small furries.
in recent weeks, pet owners have been warned that the hot
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(ideally one that includes an Insect Growth Regulator (IGR)) but be careful using the spray near fish tanks as many are toxic to fish. Follow the on-pack instructions and ensure you cover any fish tanks with a blanket before using
“Repeated bites can be uncomfortable and itchy for an animal, sometimes resulting in hair loss or a secondary skin infection. Fleas may also bite humans so seeking regular preventative treatment is a sensible precaution for all pet owners.” The warmer the weather, the faster flea eggs develop into adults. In cool 13°C temperatures, this will take 140 days but when temperatures hit over 27°C, flea eggs become reproducing adults in as little as 22 days - with fleas laying up to 50 eggs per day in these conditions. The population of fleas has grown rapidly in recent years due to warm but damp UK summers, creating the perfect breeding ground for fleas. This weather
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means the risk of an infestation is bigger than ever. Fleas don’t just live on the pets themselves but also on bedding and other soft furnishings around the house. It is important for pet owners to ensure pet bedding is washed regularly and pets are checked for fleas and bites. To prevent and treat fleas, Pets at Home has advised all pet owners to: • Regularly treat all cats and dogs in the household with a preventative flea treatment throughout the year • Check pet’s coat for fleas or flea droppings – brown or black spots • Treat homes, work places and cars with a household flea spray
•Check the label of your pet bedding and wash regularly at the temperature shown • Clean furniture to help destroy fleas at the egg, larval or adult stage of their life cycle • Vigorously vacuum carpets, floorboards and skirting boards • Throw away the vacuum cleaner dustbag or empty the canister after each clean
To help prevent the onset of fleas, Pets at Home offers a pet protection pack, which is tailored to your pet’s needs, providing effective flea, tick and worm treatments delivered FREE through your letterbox every month.
Tips to Help Your Dog Ease into PostLockdown Life According to new research, almost half of UK dog owners have been with their canine companions round-the-clock since the start of lockdown, triggering concerns of separation anxiety and distressed behaviours as the country slowly returns to normality
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Preparations for an end to lockdown need to start now, cautions Forthglade. While dogs have truly proven to be man’s best friend during this time, with 61% of owners claiming to have According to new research, forged happier and deeper connections with their fouralmost half of UK dog legged friend since March, the owners have been with their focus now needs to be on a canine companions roundpositive transition into life after the-clock since the start of lockdown.
By certified animal behaviourist, Caroline Wilkinson
lockdown, triggering concerns of separation anxiety and distressed behaviours. The survey, commissioned by Forthglade Natural Pet Food, found 29% of owners have seen their dog become more needy since the start of the pandemic, with 22% reporting an increase in barking, and 27% admitting concerns about having less time for walkies and quality time once they return to work.
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compared to their previous routines. 46% have increased training for smarter and more obedient dogs, again supporting happier dog walks – and those polled had formed closer family bonds overall owing to greater human-canine interaction.
Enjoy Human-Only Outdoor Time
Certified animal behaviourist, Taking some human-only Caroline Wilkinson, explains: exercise - whether it be a run, “Having had this period at home cycle or walk - is a nice way to has no doubt strengthened the give your dogs some calm, solo bond with our beloved dogs; it’s time at home. been a great time to nourish relationships with our four-legged It’s so important that we think friends and enjoy more relaxed about gradually getting our dogs walks. It would be wonderful if used to more time spent alone. dog owners held onto the positive It also allows you time to focus on traits developed during this your own mental and physical unsettled time, ensuring this wellbeing. While out for your special connection with our pets exercise, think about focusing on and families is not lost.” your breathing - counting your breaths in and out - really being Dog walking during lockdown present in the moment. If your emerged from the survey as a dog has been a little needier powerful tool for mindfulness recently, this is a great with 48% of owners now enjoying opportunity for some “me time” longer, more fulfilling dog walks without your dog.
Ease into New Routines Slowly Establishing a routine has been documented to provide us, humans, with many benefits, including better rest; improved eating; reduced stress; and an effective use of time. Our dogs can flourish with routine too or at least some key cornerstones of predictable mealtimes and bedtime routines. As routines were thrown out the window pretty much overnight at the start of lockdown, it’s understandable that we’ve all been feeling so unsettled and for many, sleep has been suffering. As we start to move back towards our previous routine, try to make
changes gradually - so you’re not overwhelming yourself or your dog. If you’re able to stagger family members returning to work, school or Uni - so your dog doesn’t go from all to nothing overnight - this will help reduce the chances that they panic when left alone.
Go on Adventures! As the weeks go on, try not to let the daily dog walk go back onto the “chore list”. In recent times, our daily dog walk has become the highlight of many people’s days. The
Build Fitness Up Slowly
opportunity to go out, get fresh
All of us - both humans and dogs might be a little less fit than we were a few weeks ago. Don’t rush back to multiple long walks a day - build up your fitness slowly. We don’t want to risk any injuries! Playing games at home, alongside comfortable walking time, is a good way to keep your dogs’ bodies moving and their minds active!
air, and discover local walks you may not have before. Keep the focus on it being a highlight of your day. Explore more local walks or venture a sensible distance to re-visit some of your old favourites. Walking with our dogs brings so many benefits reduced blood pressure, increased fitness, bonding time
with your dog (a boost of the “love hormone”, oxytocin, for both of you), and potential for social interactions at a sensible distance.
Reduce the Chance of Social Overwhelm
As you’re building up your walks with your dogs, be mindful of not only the physical strain on Take Your Training Outside their bodies but also the mental toll it might take settling back Make sure you’re putting in into things. daily training on focus exercises with your dog. Ensure the For young puppies, or anxious process of returning to you older dogs, lockdown restrictions when called is fun! have probably reduced the amount of exposure they’ve had With lockdown restricting a lot of to the world. off-lead walking time with our dogs, their recall might be a little You may find you’re seeing more bit rusty! If you’re not sure if people on your walks, that roads your dog will respond to you, are busier, and there’s loud noises keep everyone safe by using a from construction sites. This can long training lead while you all be quite stressful for many continue your recall practice. dogs. If you need to, change the
route you take to include calmer spaces, or reduce the amount of time you’re out and about.
Build a Good Relationship with Your Pet Carer If you aren’t back in work as yet, now is the time to get back in touch with any pet care providers you normally use - dog sitters or walkers - and re-build your communication with them. If government guidance allows it, think about booking in the occasional walk for your dog, so they are eased back into spending time with someone else (other than their household).
Keep your Dog’s Brain Engaged Try to leave a visual cue out to remind yourself to spend 5-10 minutes a day completely focused on your dog. Many owners have been spending more time training their dogs at home or providing them with enrichment opportunities. When work-life ramps up it can be easy to let this slip. A bag of treats left by the kettle could be a good visual prompt each time you make a warm drink, so you’re completely focused on your dog. Mental stimulation not only provides your dog with the feel-good factor, but it also keeps your bond strong, tires them out more than physical exercise alone will and can help in the reduction of challenging
behaviours such as digging or barking.
Seek
Help if You Need It
If you’re already seeing signs that your dog has become hyper-attached and are distressed when you leave the room, speak to a force-free canine behaviourist to get support. A large number of owners are concerned about their dog’s ability to cope alone as they begin to return to work. A step-by-step behavioural modification plan is the best way to build up your dog’s confidence and ease your concerns.
Be Kind to Yourself Do one thing every day that you love! Do one thing every day that your dog loves! We’re in such unsettled times and need to prioritise both our own mental health as well as that of our dogs. You might be worried about everyone around you, including your dog, but make sure you take some time for you. Try to remove the pressure to get everything right. If on a certain day, you just don’t feel like going out into the world (remember we’ve not been used to it either), then take a rest day with your dog - ditch the walk for a little training time, some food finds, a filled food toy, and cuddles. You’ll both feel better for it.
Hand in Paw: Helping Each Other‌
A dog nobody wanted found her forever home and now helps her new owner with her autism and Vet anxiety.
A dog who nobody wanted found her forever home and now helps her new owner with her autism and anxiety. Cheryl Taylor, from Sutton in Ashfield, Nottinghamshire, adopted five-year-old Beauty from the RSPCA’s Chesterfield & North Derbyshire branch in 2017. Once she’d reserved her she visited to take her some toys and treats, and to spend some time with her.
“If I’m particularly upset she will immediately sit, and raise her paw. If I sit down with her, she will give me a hug, often by placing one or two paws on my shoulder and resting her head on me. “Having Beauty around also gives me a good sense of personal security. She will bark and alert me if there is anyone outside or around.”
Cheryl added: “Beauty has a home with me for the rest of her life and is now a member of my family. Beauty changed my life forever, and I will be forever grateful to the RSPCA for bringing her into my life.”
“Beauty is more than just a dog to me; she is my best friend.”
To help the RSPCA continue helping animals like Beauty through these unprecedented times, please donate whatever you can spare at www.rspca.org.uk/covid.
Cheryl, who has autism spectrum condition, struggles with high levels of anxiety.
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As well as routine and structure, Beauty has offered Cheryl companionship, support and affection.
“She provides me with judgement-free companionship as I lack the ability to form many kinds of social Lockdown has been particularly relationships with other challenging for Cheryl - but people,” Cheryl said. “She loves Beauty has helped her continue people; always wagging her tail with some sort of routine and and eager to greet people. normality. Everyone we meet loves her!”
She said: “I will never forget the day this amazing dog came into my life. Even though I fully understood the massive responsibilities of taking care of a dog, this did not phase me in the least.
“Even though Beauty has received no formal assistance dog training, this is the role she plays in my life and she plays it superbly. She is a very sensitive dog who is able to pick up on how I am feeling with no encouragement.
“Her happiness and excitement never fails to rub off on me Beauty is a constant that never changes.”
She added: “This has been a difficult time but lockdown has been that little bit easier for me thanks to Beauty. She’s given me a valid reason to go out and spend time in nature; she loves the woods, the sounds of the birds and spotting squirrels.
To support the RSPCA’s Chesterfield & North Derbyshire branch please donate here: https:// chesterfield-rspca.org.uk/ makeadonation.