Sex-mad budgie just won't shut up

Jun 29 2008 Scott Miller

Q For the last five weeks my budgie has done nothing but squawk 24 hours a day. The vet gave him antibiotics but the squawking and head bobbing goes on. He eats and does the toilet and will come out and fly sometimes. Is there anything I can do for him?

A The smells of summer may be spurring him on to call for a mate. Head bobbing is a classic sign of an amorous budgie. The verbal diarrhoea is also a way to encourage a female to mate. If he is eating well, his feathers look bright and he is otherwise healthy, then I wouldn't worry too much, as hopefully the squawking will reduce as the season for birdie love wanes.

Q One of my goldfish has got really fat. It's as if it swallowed a balloon. I am afraid it may burst. What's wrong?

A Sounds like a problem with his swim bladder, the organ responsible for keeping a fish at neutral buoyancy in the water.

Sometimes affected by bacteria or fungus, the swim bladder can begin to swell. Visit an aquarium store and ask for medicated drops to correct the problem.

Q Our collie loves to lie out in the sun. But both our front and back gardens are plagued by ants which bother him when he lies down. How can I get rid of them?

A Visit a garden centre to get advice on tackling your ant invasion. In the meantime, provide him with a sunlounger or dog bed outdoors, with all four legs sprayed with insecticidal spray.

Q My son has a dog which barks all the time. How can he make it stop?

A Little dogs tend to be vocal.

The best way to control barking is to occupy the noise-maker, giving him loads of things to chew when left alone. Keep him away from front windows and door, as he'll bark at strangers walking past.

Q We have a nine-month-old golden spaniel and want another. We were advised to wait until she was fully-grown before buying her a companion. What is the ideal age?

A There is no time like the present. A nine-month-old dog can help to guide the new puppy, while enjoying the company and energetic play which the new canine recruit will provide. Older dogs tend to find younger ones annoying so don't leave it too late.

Q My Westie has terrible skin. She scratches her back on the coffee table and is making it red raw. Should I put camomile lotion on her skin to cool it?

A Creams will only do so much. You need to find the root of the problem. Allergies to grasses, foods or fleas are common causes, though some dogs are diagnosed with atopy (allergy of unknown cause). Your vet will take blood tests to diagnose problems. There are many treatments to relieve your dog's suffering. Also, wipe your dog with a damp towel after walks, helping to remove allergens.