Is it safe to let my Bearded Dragon enjoy the sun from our patio? – your pet queries answered
Sean, who is the head vet at tailored pet food firm tails.com, has helped with owners' queries for ten years.
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Q: SHOULD I let my Bearded Dragon Lucky out on the patio in the sun, in a safe enclosure where he will be supervised?
It seems a shame to keep him inside if the weather is good.
What do you think?
MIKE BROWN, Leeds
Sean says: Yes, natural UV rays from the sunshine just can't be beaten for reptiles like your Beardie.
But a few safety tips . . .
You've already touched on the most important one.
It must be a foolproof, escape-proof enclosure — if there is a gap or opportunity to climb or jump out, Lucky will take it.
And not be so lucky facing life in the wild.
You must also watch him like a hawk, or a hungry hawk or cat could see him as a meal.
Finally, what can seem like sunny weather to us may not produce the right temperature for him at ground level, for example.
So it's best to use a thermometer to measure the ground and air temperature, ensuring it's meeting his ideal thermal range.
If it's a few degrees too cold don't risk it, as respiratory illness is common in Beardies if they catch a chill.
Q: HOW can we tell if our hamster is happy? And what are the signs of stress?
We have Siberian hamster Pippa, who is six months old, and I want to ensure she has the happiest life, cared for by my daughters Bella, eight and Flo, nine.
MARK THOMAS, Cardiff
Sean says: I applaud you Mark, as many small pets are overlooked in this way — seen as low-maintenance, not needing much consideration for their happiness.
And the way they are sold, particularly in respect to their housing, is often below the acceptable minimum standard in terms of space and environmental or behavioural enrichment.
Basically, think how a hamster lives in the wild — yes, there are still wild hamsters in Europe, Russia and into Asia.
They live in a burrow system and will roam great distances at night.
A tiny cage with a wheel just doesn't cut it.
So provide as big a cage as possible, with a safe area for supervised free roaming.
Q: MY dog gets grass seeds in her paws.
I keep her pad clipped but should I consider getting booties for her?
I wonder if Mica, a Siberian husky, is just unlucky or if there's anything else I can do to stop this happening?
HELEN BROOMFIELD, Doncaster
Sean says: Most dogs really dislike boots and poorly fitting ones can chafe by altering how they walk.
My advice is to try to keep Mica away from areas of very long grass going to seed.
You simply have to inspect her paws after every walk and make sure there are no seeds lurking under or between her pads.
Keeping fur clipped short there is good too.
Q: WHAT steps should I take to keep my dog safe as the weather gets hotter?
Should I get a drinking bowl that cools water? Or provide fans?
After last year's heatwave, I want to get prepared.
COLIN SMITH, Sudbury, Suffolk
Sean says: No need for expensive gadgets.
Room-temperature water, and plenty of it, around the house is best — and shade to retreat to when things get too hot.
If you can get one, a cooling mat is a good idea.
Finally, make sure to only walk your dog in the cooler mornings and evenings, never in the middle of the day when it gets really hot.
Test the pavement with the back of your hand — if it's too hot for you it's too hot for our dogs.
Star of the week
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GLOBETROTTER Felix the dog has been announced as Britain's new ambassador for sports brand ASICS.
The seven-year-old Samoyed has visited 36 countries and is an social-media sensation with the handle @wanderlust_samoyed.
Latest ASICS research shows British dog owners are 35 per cent more likely to hit recommended physical activity guidelines compared to those without dogs, and have better mental wellbeing.
ASICS spokesman Gary Raucher said: 'We are delighted to have Felix as our official ASICS Mind's Best Friend and share dogs' infectious love for movement with the world to motivate us to get out and move for our minds.'
See asics.com/mindsbestfriend.
WIN: Kanoodle toy bundle
DISCOVER Kanoodle® Dog Edition by Brightkins™.
This engaging toy hides tasty treats, encouraging your dog to sniff, spin and solve for their reward.
Brightkins is giving away five bundles each worth £49.90 – one for your dog and one for humans.
See who cracks it first.
To enter, send an email headed BRIGHTKINS to sundaypets@the-sun. co.uk by July 6.
See brightkins.co.uk.
T&Cs apply.
How to keep your dogs safe at the seaside
WITH summer fun on the way, one of the country's top canine first-aiders has issued an urgent warning about water safety for dogs.
Veterinary nurse Rachel Bean, author of the iPET Network's canine first-aid qualification, said that while many dogs love water, some breeds, boxers, are at higher risk of drowning.
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Here are her top four hazards to look out for . . .
1. Sea water ingestion, which can lead to salt poisoning: Rachel says: 'If your dog starts vomiting or showing signs of distress, get them to a vet immediately. Carry fresh water and offer it frequently while at the beach.'
2. Drowning: Breeds such as bulldogs, boxers and Basset hounds are physically unsuited to swimming, so don't just assume they will be fine.
3. Blue-green algae: It can be lethal, even in small doses. Rachel says: 'Rinse them off immediately. Symptoms can appear rapidly and include weakness and drooling.'
4. Overexertion and heatstroke: Watch for excessive panting, drooling, disorientation or collapse. Move them to shade, offer cool (not ice-cold) water and seek veterinary help urgently.
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