Mutt Needs Spell At Dog Borstal

Aug 31 2008 Scott Miller

Pets Corner

Q My wee mongrel came from the dog home in Glasgow.

He's fine with people but is very nervous of other dogs as he was attacked in the home and when we are out he can attack at random. I have tried one-to-one training and classes to no avail. Can you recommend a training centre?

A I think you are looking for a Dog Borstal-style training programme, similiar to those on the BBC show. Two of the trainers from the show offer intensive training courses on their websites.

Check out www.micmartin.co.uk or www.lynne-davies.co.uk

Q My eight-year-old Cavalier King Charles spaniel has a skin infection at the base of her tail that will not go away. The vet has prescribed penicillin, steroids and Malaseb shampoo but the infection is still there and it's very itchy. What can I do?

A The naturally-occurring yeast Malassezia can lead to the symptoms you describe. It is best prevented by using Malaseb shampoo once a week. Always ensure you are treating her regularly for fleas, which cause 70 per cent of dog itching cases. You could also ask for a referral to a veterinary dermatologist.

Q My seven-month-old chocolate labrador is very hyper when meeting new people and dogs. Is there a way of stopping him jumping up on them or will he grow out of it?

A Dogs like to meet face to face and will jump up to eye level to meet people. The best way to prevent this is to get everyone to crouch down to your dog's level to meet him, while you restrain him using his collar. Also try ignoring him and looking away until all his feet are on the floor. As soon as he loses interest and jumps down, give him lots of attention.

Q Our nine-month-old lab pup won't eat from his bowl, only off a newspaper or the floor.

A It could be he doesn't like the new material. Try putting a liner in the bowl until he gets used to it. Food will always rule a labrador's behaviour and I'd bet if you leave tasty treats in the bowl, sooner or later he will brave this frightening object.

Q My 16-year-old Border collie is blind, deaf and cannot walk very far as she gets breathless. She also has problems doing the toilet as her legs cannot support her weight.

Would it be kinder to let her go as she has no quality of life?

A Quality of life is paramount when considering the euthanasia of a beloved pet. A dog should be able to eat, drink, defecate and urinate normally and get around and enjoy the company of their owners. It sounds like your dog is struggling to do these, so speak to your vet. It's never an easy decision to make but if you allow her to further deteriorate, you could be left feeling guilty. All my very best during this difficult time.