Mum's Hissy Fit At Plea For Pet Snake

Jun 22 2008 Scott Miller

Pets Corner

Q My son wants a snake but I hate the idea. Do they make good pets?

A Snakes are very good first pets. Once the vivarium - the aquarium-like environment they live in - is right, they are very low maintenance. Many need to be fed small rodents twice a week, which you can buy from pet shops. Ask a reptile shop to help you choose a suitable species.

Q My guinea pig has developed bald patches on his head and legs. He doesn't seem to be itching though. What is wrong with him?

A It sounds like a bad case of ringworm, a fungus which grows on the skin and causes the loss of fur in round patches. Your vet can prescribe anti-fungal shampoo to kill the bacteria and his fur should then regrow quickly.

Q My four-month-old collie/ springer spaniel cross won't go to the toilet outside.

He waits until after walks then goes indoors. He also won't stop biting my children as he thinks they are playing. Any advice?

A Mouthing siblings and people during play is common but should be discouraged. Respond to bites with a strict "no" and end the game to teach your pup that using teeth means loss of privilege.

The toilet problem will get better as he gets more confident outside.

Mop up some of his urine with paper and use it to scent mark a tree in your local park. Use treats and attention when he goes there and he will eventually learn it is the right place to go.

Q My lurcher cross has a very itchy rear end and always drags herself across the carpet.

Blood tests diagnosed allergies, so she gets a special dried food and steroid injections but still won't stop scratching. What will ease her suffering?

A This is a classic case of severe allergy, where a seemingly normal young dog develops itchy skin as they reach maturity aged two or three. Anti-histamines such as Piriton block allergic reactions for a short period, calming your dog and reducing the need to scratch. The diet sounds good but I'd advise adding EFAs (essential fatty acids), which improve skin and coat condition and have anti-itch properties. After walks, wipe her down with a damp towel to remove allergens.

Q My cat is affectionate with me but doesn't like other people. My sister is coming to stay while I am on holiday and I fear she won't settle.

A Feeding a cat will get them on side eventually. Your moggy will learn to first tolerate, then enjoy the company of your sister with you not around. A Feliway diffuser from your vet will also help calm nervous felines.

Q My 13-year-old cross breed has cataracts in both eyes.

Due to her age, my vet says removing them won't improve her sight. What do you think?

A I agree with your vet. A dog of her age won't have great vision even without cataracts. An op with general anaesthetic is risky as older canines don't respond to the drugs used as well. If you are determined to go ahead with surgery, ask your vet to refer you to a specialist ophthalmologist.