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Scottish Sun
3 days ago
- Lifestyle
- Scottish Sun
From a destructive cat to a friendless bearded dragon – your pet queries answered
Scroll down to read Sean's advice about a cat who only eats the jelly in their food Click to share on X/Twitter (Opens in new window) Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window) HE is on a mission to help our pets . . . and is here to answer YOUR questions. Sean, who is the head vet at tailored pet food firm has helped with owners' queries for ten years. Sign up for Scottish Sun newsletter Sign up 4 Sean McCormack, head vet at promises he can 'help keep pets happy and healthy' 4 This week a reader writes in whose cat keeps scratching their chair Credit: Getty Q) ALTHOUGH she knows it annoys me, my cat keeps scratching my favourite chair. I've already had it recovered once. What can I do to stop Dingo's destroying ways? Peter Thrower, Barnsley A) Scratching is a natural behaviour for cats. It marks their territory, leaving scent behind for other cats that might stray in as well as being a visual reminder that they live in that location. There's also evidence it releases natural feelgood chemicals like endorphins and happy hormones. Dingo is not doing it to annoy you, she just really wants to scratch that chair. They like prominent upright surfaces to do it on, too. The trick is to encourage the behaviour more on appropriate objects. Cat-scratching posts are vital if you don't already have some. Multiple ones around the house preferably. And use a pet-safe deterrent spray on your chair or temporarily wrap it in cling film or aluminium foil to break the habit. Bonkers, but it can work. Q) CAN you please advise on what paint can be used for a tortoise enclosure? World's Oldest Tortoise Jonathan Package - Joe Hollins My family have a pair called Laurel and Hardy. Sara Moore, Selsdon, Surrey A) I have to admit I'm not up to date on the paint market, so it's difficult to recommend products. What I will say is that it needs to be a paint advertised as pet-safe. I'd also mention that it needs to be for outdoor use so it doesn't flake off and get eaten by your tortoises. And on that note, certain colours can be very attractive to tortoises. Bright yellows, oranges, reds and purples in particular are a no-go, otherwise Laurel and Hardy may be chewing their way through your enclosure and we don't want that. Q) I HAVE just bought my son his first bearded dragon. Called Berty, he is really sociable. Should I get him a friend? Amy Parker, Reading A) My niece just got one too and it's reminded me just how fun and sociable they can be as pets. The pet dog of the reptile world, I think. Anyway, you'll be glad to know Berty doesn't need a companion as Beardies are pretty solitary animals. They only really come together to mate. When kept in groups, stress and competition for food and basking spots is high, but fighting, injury and even death can also occur. As with all reptile-keeping, mimic their life in the wild as best you can and you won't go too far wrong. Q) MY cat Princess only eats the jelly on cat food and turns her nose up at the rest of it. What can I do to get her to eat up? I'm worried she'll be hungry. Olivia Edwards, Basildon, Essex A) One of three things is likely to be happening here. Firstly, it's quite possible Princess may have oral pain, caused by dental disease. This is worth a vet appointment. As is the second category — an illness may be making her lose her appetite. You don't mention if she has lost weight or whether she's drinking more but these are always signs to watch out for, in older cats especially. Finally, maybe she's just not that hungry, and she knows that if she turns her nose up you come rushing in with something even more tasty. Cats and dogs can be very clever like that, training their owners to produce the goods when they fancy something different. We often worry too much in this last situation. If your cat is a healthy weight and seems well in herself, simply relax and let Princess finish her bowl. Star of the week 4 Deadpool's Peggy is now a superhero to other pups Credit: Supplied SHE played Dogpool in the latest Deadpool & Wolverine blockbuster – and now Peggy is a superhero to other pups. As the five-year-old hairless pugese – a pug and Chinese Crested cross, once voted Britain's ugliest dog – has helped raise £627 for Birmingham Dogs Home at Comic Con Midlands. Rachel Frost, the charity's events and community fundraising manager said: 'We were a little star-struck to have Peggy visit our charity but are extremely grateful for her taking time out of her busy schedule to support our rescue dogs.' Peggy's owner, make-up artist Holly Middleton, 38, from East Yorks, said: 'Peggy and I are very proud to support them.' Donate at birmingham WIN: £50 B&M VOUCHER B&M is giving five lucky readers the chance to win a £50 voucher to spend on their new summer pet collection. The range has everything you need to keep your furry friend happy – from cooling mats and splash pools to Paw Pops you can freeze for a tasty treat. To enter the competition, email sundaypets@the-sun. with the subject line B&M by August 3. Check out the range at T&Cs apply. SAVE PETS FROM GARDEN'S HIDDEN TOXINS 4 Owners should look out for hidden dangers in their gardens to keep pets safe Credit: Supplied SUMMER is the ideal time for pets to relax in the garden – but owners should look out for hidden dangers. Check slug pellets, fertilisers and pesticides are safe for animals, and remember some plants can be deadly. Lars Mortensen, head vet at the Agria pet insurance app, said: 'Dog, cat and rabbit owners should look out for plants such as lilies, giant hogweed, geraniums and hydrangeas. Know which products are pet-friendly and which are toxic.' Kitten Izzie had a risky brush with a lily on the Ards Peninsula in County Down. Her owner, healthcare professional Megan Clarke, washed her and rushed her to the vet, where she was put on a drip to support her vital organs. Agria covered the £2,500 cost. Lucinda Alderton-Sell, of charity Cats Protection, revealed several owners have been caught out by surprise toxins. She said: 'Lilies are poisonous to cats and the toxins can cause kidney failure, which can be fatal.' Ross Hallifax, from pet insurance specialist Purely Pets, said there are also chemicals in pest control which can irritate dogs' skin and digestive systems. If your pet has symptoms, call your vet immediately.
Scottish Sun
12-07-2025
- Lifestyle
- Scottish Sun
From tortoise only eating pellets to terrier struggling in the heat – your pet queries answered
Scroll down to Sean's advice about a 25-year-old cockatiel that has been pulling his feathers out PAWS & CLAWS From tortoise only eating pellets to terrier struggling in the heat – your pet queries answered Click to share on X/Twitter (Opens in new window) Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window) HE is on a mission to help our pets . . . and is here to answer YOUR questions. Sean, who is the head vet at tailored pet food firm has helped with owners' queries for ten years. Sign up for Scottish Sun newsletter Sign up 4 Sean McCormack, head vet at promises he can 'help keep pets happy and healthy' 4 A reader is worried about the eating habits of her tortoise Credit: Getty Q) ALTHOUGH I offer him plenty of leafy veg and weeds my tortoise Ron turns his nose up at it. He only eats tortoise pellets. It's like someone addicted to junk food. Are they enough? What do you suggest? Helen Maitland, Bexley, Kent Sean says: Tortoise pelleted food is supplementary to be used in small amounts occasionally. Their diet should mimic what they eat in the wild. I'm assuming Ron is a common Mediterranean species. Start with delicious weeds or wildflowers most tortoises cannot resist, such as dandelion flowers. Then reduce the amount of pelleted diet while offering vibrant coloured salads. Base it on leafy greens, add in flowers like nasturtiums, and perhaps some grated carrot and other colourful vegetables to get his interest. See The Tortoise Trust (tortoise and the British Chelonia Group ( Q) OVER the past few months, my 25-year-old cockatiel has been pulling his feathers out. It must hurt because Spikey squeals when he's doing it. World's Oldest Tortoise Jonathan Package - Joe Hollins Otherwise he's in good condition. He doesn't seem depressed, he's active and at times noisy. I've tried calcium and toys. Breeders I talk to think it's either age- related or a diet problem. I've tried changing his seed, giving him more fruit and recommended additives. But nothing seems to work. He saw a vet and was treated as a precaution for mites, as was his cage. Brian Palin, Telford, Shrops Sean says: With his age, I am concerned it could indicate underlying pain. Arthritis in his joints may lead to pain and plucking as a self soothing or frustration behaviour. Dietary imbalances can cause issues and build over time, so variety and supplements are a good idea. Ask your vet to prescribe an anti-inflammatory medication trial. If it helps, it may confirm my pain theory. After that, get an avian specialist vet to run tests. Q) WITH the hot weather, my nine-year-old terrier Delicie has been vomiting. It is definitely connected to the heat. What can I do? I have a fan and cooling pads and keep her indoors. Julie Dowling, Crayford, Kent Sean says: There are many causes for vomiting in dogs, ranging from stomach problems, dehydration, eating spoiled or unsavoury 'food' through to infections, inflammation or hormonal disease. But assuming this is due to heat you are on the ball. A fan blowing over a bowl of water with ice cubes will be really cooling. Also provide lots of shade, and water bowls all over the house. Walkies should only be super early or late at night. If she's vomiting more than a few times a day, becoming dehydrated (her gums will feel tacky), or is restless, lethargic or panting excessively, see the vet. Q) MY six-year-old daughter Emma wants a pet, but I'm not keen on a cat or dog. Can you recommend something a bit more interesting than a fish that would be suitable for her age? Elizabeth Holick, Plymouth, Devon Sean says: As you will need to help and supervise, due to Emma's age, it needs to be a pet you like too. Small rodents are too flighty and delicate and rabbits have more complex needs than many assume. Guinea Pigs are good, fun first pets. They are pretty entertaining, docile and robust to handle. Or try something less long lived or odd like Giant African Land Snails, Giant Millipedes or Stick Insects. Star of the week 4 Mia the 13-year-old rescue pup makes her Netflix debut in hit series Too Much alongside Megan Stalter MIA the rescue Chinese Crested pup is a Netflix star who has just made her red carpet debut. The 13-year-old has a role in hit series Too Much as the pet of the lead character Jessica, played by actress Megan Stalter, who is a workaholic New Yorker who comes to Britain following a break-up and finds herself on the dating scene. Mia was booked for the part through pet talent agency Urban Paws. Owner Bev Nicholson, 62, from Peterborough, said: 'Mia took filming in her stride and smashed the red carpet. 'I could not be more proud of my little pocket rocket.' Layla Flaherty of Urban Paws said: 'Our very own Mia is stealing the spotlight.' See urbanpaws Win: micro-pig adoption pack HAVE you ever wanted a micro pig but don't have space? Then this is the prize for you. Kew Little Pigs Farm in Amersham, Bucks, is giving two readers a one-year gold adoption package worth £95. They will also each get a family ticket to its Alice in Wonderland fun day on August 17, worth £60. To enter, send an email headed PIGGY to sundaypets@ by July 27. See T&Cs. Park 'pee posts' flag up dogs' health 4 Owners can check their pet's health this summer via park 'peeing spots' NEARLY three quarters of people have taken a sickie from work to care for their poorly pet, a new survey has revealed. A third of Brits (36 per cent) say they wouldn't trust anyone else to look after their sick pet, with 16 per cent admitting to lying to their boss to get time off. Meanwhile, 30 per cent have cancelled a date to nurse their dog back to health, a fifth (19 per cent) have missed an important event, while 16 per cent have cancelled a holiday. More than half – 52 per cent – of owners even admit that they care more about their pet's health than their partner's. The statistics from the experts in tailored dog nutrition, led the brand to provide dog lovers with a simple way to check their pet's health this summer via park 'peeing spots'. Experts fitted lamp posts in London's Victoria Park with pH tests designed to flag abnormal levels of acid or alkaline in dog urine, both of which can be early indicators of health issues. Dr Sean McCormack, who is also Tails' head vet, said: 'By making these tests quick and easy for owners, we're helping to catch potential issues early – before they become more serious or harder to treat.'
Scottish Sun
05-07-2025
- Health
- Scottish Sun
My cat has white fur… should I be worried about sunburn?
Scroll down to Sean's advice to a dog owner who can't control their lunging pup PAWS & CLAWS My cat has white fur… should I be worried about sunburn? Click to share on X/Twitter (Opens in new window) Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window) HE is on a mission to help our pets . . . and is here to answer YOUR questions. Sean, who is the head vet at tailored pet food firm has helped with owners' queries for ten years. Sign up for Scottish Sun newsletter Sign up 4 Sean McCormack, head vet at promises he can 'help keep pets happy and healthy' 4 Should I be concerned that my cat can get sunburn? Q: MY two-year-old cat Truffles has white fur. Should I be worried about sunburn? Paul Hayward, Plymstock, Devon Sean says: Yes, white or pale dogs and cats can be particularly prone to sunburn, especially around the eyes, nose and tips of the ears. For cats especially, the ear tips can be prone to a type of skin cancer called squamous cell carcinoma. This is caused by exposure to UV rays. So use pet-safe, high-factor sun cream on these exposed areas in sunny weather. Truffles may not like this at first, but just use a very thin layer and distract her afterwards with games or treats to make sure she doesn't immediately groom it off. You can also reduce risk by keeping pale pets indoors during the day INCREDIBLE moment hero vet staff save dog from choking on favourite toy Q: I AM worried about leaving my dog in a kennel for the summer holidays. Apart from his normal food, what other things can I do to make this a smooth experience? It's the first time our Lurcher Brandy will be apart from us. Sandy Evans, Swansea Sean says: Familiar bedding and toys that smell of home will help. A pheromone collar might be good, too. But kennels will always be a bit of a change and sometimes a worry for our dogs during our holidays. I've recently signed up to a pet- sitting service, where you can list your pet and holiday dates for someone checked and registered to come and look after your home and pet. It was a great solution for the pet owner, pets and pet-sitter alike. The dogs I looked after were far happier in their own home than in kennels. It's called Trusted Housesitters (I'm not on commission!). But it might be worth looking into if you are very worried how Brandy might cope apart from you in unfamiliar surroundings. Q: I WANT to teach my African Grey parrot Teddy some tricks. He's really bright. Where do you advise that I start? Jacob Ford, Skegness, Lincs Sean says: The sky's the limit here. Studies have shown African Grey parrots can perform similar mental tasks to toddlers and small children. The one disservice we do when keeping them as pets is not recognising their social needs, and keeping them alone with none of their own kind for company. If you aren't willing to get another, then stimulate Teddy's mind as much as possible through interaction with you. Start by watching YouTube videos on the subject, and you and Teddy will learn all kinds of cool tricks. Q: MY dog Monkey lunges at other canines. A behaviourist told me to get a collar that has little spikes to break the habit but I'm not sure about that. What's your view? It is persistent but I don't want to cause him discomfort. That said, he's a big dog and I'm worried that if he frightens someone there could be a complaint. Ella Smith, Guildford, Surrey Sean says: My recommendation is that you find a better behaviourist. I doubt they are accredited, with that outdated advice. A qualified animal behaviourist is worth their weight in gold and generally can get far better results allowing Monkey to express his emotions, not be punished for doing so, but alleviating the underlying cause too. The trio of techniques for tackling this issue are habituation, response substitution and counter conditioning. The three main accreditations for animal behaviourists: The Association of Pet Behaviour Counsellors (APBC); the Animal Behaviour & Training Council (ABTC) and Certificated Clinical Animal Behaviourists (CCAB). Star of the week YOU'VE heard of Peppa, but now Pluto the pig is hoping to become a global superstar and be crowned the tiniest pet boar in the world. At just 38cm tall, the dinky Juliana pig is one of the pets at Kew Little Pigs Farm in Amersham, Bucks, where staff believe he is the tiniest adult boar ever recorded. 4 Pluto the pig is hoping to become a global superstar Credit: Supplied His application is currently awaiting verification by Guinness World Records. 'He's tiny but mighty,' said owner Olivia Mikhail. 'He loves a cuddle, sits happily on your lap and has even done film work and starred in a London vodka company's ad campaign. 'We think he's the full package!' See more of him at WIN £80 dog bed FROM playful pups to wise old woofers, every dog deserves their own cosy retreat. Big Bertha Original is offering one reader the chance to win an XL cord dog bed worth £99.90. And two readers can each bag a large dog bed worth £79.90. With the spacious designs, your pet can stretch, roll and snore to their heart's content. For a chance to win, send an email (stating your preference) to sundaypets@ by July 20. See T&Cs apply. Dog in hot car? Its never worth risk NEARLY half of dog owners would leave their pet in a car on a warm day, according to an RSPCA survey. Yet doing so could put their pets' lives at risk. 4 Leaving your dog in a hot car risks their lives Credit: Getty Carrie Stones, campaign manager at the animal charity, said: 'Worryingly, RSPCA polling suggests only 58 per cent would not leave their dog inside a car on a warm day, suggesting almost half may choose to. 'Underestimating the temperatures a vehicle can reach, even when the weather doesn't seem that warm or if a vehicle is parked in the shade with the windows down, can be fatal for our beloved dogs. It's never worth the risk.' Dalma Szucs, head of trust and safety at said: 'One of the most common, and most dangerous, misconceptions is that it's safe to leave a dog in the car for just a few minutes. Even on a mild day, temperatures inside a vehicle can rise to over 40C within ten minutes. 'Heatstroke in dogs can escalate quickly and is often fatal if not treated promptly.' The RSPCA says if you see a dog in a hot car, don't be afraid to dial 999. Carrie added: 'This is the best and quickest way to get help, as the RSPCA has no powers of entry and we'd need to ask the police.'
Scottish Sun
21-06-2025
- Health
- Scottish Sun
Is it safe to let my Bearded Dragon enjoy the sun from our patio? – your pet queries answered
'How can we tell if our hamster is happy?', asks another pet owner PAWS AND CLAWS Is it safe to let my Bearded Dragon enjoy the sun from our patio? – your pet queries answered Click to share on X/Twitter (Opens in new window) Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window) HE is on a mission to help our pets . . . and is here to answer YOUR questions. Sean, who is the head vet at tailored pet food firm has helped with owners' queries for ten years. Sign up for Scottish Sun newsletter Sign up 4 Sean McCormack, head vet at promises he can 'help keep pets happy and healthy' 4 Vet Sean gives advice to a Bearded Dragon owner Credit: Alamy 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 4 Felix the dog has been announced as Britain's new ambassador for sports brand ASICS Credit: supplied 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 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. by July 6. See 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. 4 Here's how to keep your beloved pet safe at the beach Credit: Getty 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.
Scottish Sun
07-06-2025
- Lifestyle
- Scottish Sun
From a ‘bored' cat to a dog dealing with the heat – your pet queries answered
Scroll down to find out how to win tickets to the London Pet Show PAWS AND CLAWS From a 'bored' cat to a dog dealing with the heat – your pet queries answered Click to share on X/Twitter (Opens in new window) Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window) HE is on a mission to help our pets . . . and is here to answer YOUR questions. Sean, who is the head vet at tailored pet food firm has helped with owners' queries for ten years. Sign up for Scottish Sun newsletter Sign up 4 Sean McCormack, head vet at promises he can 'help keep pets happy and healthy' 4 Sean helps a reader whose cat grooms herself constantly Credit: Getty Q) MY cat, Chairman Meow, seems to groom herself constantly. Is this a sign of boredom? She has plenty of toys, scratch posts and beds. She's five. I live near a busy road so she's a house cat. Should I give her outside access? JUDE BROWN, Birmingham Sean says: Firstly, I love this name for a cat. I had a patient that was named the same years ago, and it always made me chuckle. Over-grooming can be a sign of stress, boredom or an appeasement behaviour that is self-soothing as it releases happy hormones. She's got plenty of enrichment indoors, but I wonder if you could play more interactive games with her, such as scattering feeding treats, using fishing rod toys and the like. If she's not losing hair, it may just be that Chairman Meow is a fastidiously clean and well-presented cat. Q) BORIS, my Labradoodle, was running on the beach when he just collapsed. He lay down for several minutes then got up again and has been fine since. He's nine and is a big dog. How concerned should I be? GILLIAN MANN, Edinburgh F1 stars' pets including driver with thirteen cats, Leclerc's yacht-loving pooch and Hamilton's dog Roscoe with own car Sean says: That is worrying. And it raises more questions than answers. Is it the first time this has happened? Was he seemingly conscious or absent while laying down, did he yelp or whine? What were his limbs doing? Was he limping or seem pained after? Was he salivating? If it was hot out, how was his breathing? All these factors would lead vets to rule in or rule out certain conditions. If it happens again, try to video it on your phone and get him checked by your vet as soon as possible. Hopefully it's a one-off but it could be an early sign of something else worth investigating. Q) WHAT precautions should I take with my dog Ted now that it's getting hotter? He's a Labrador cross who is eight. I always make sure he has shade, but should I consider a fan after the recent hot summers? What about cooling vests on walks? SIMON EVANS, Barnstaple, Devon Sean says: First thing with Labs, in particular, is a weight-loss programme and diet if he is overweight. Obesity can really make things tough on our pets in hot weather. Your vet practice can help assess, or you can look on our YouTube channel for videos on 'body condition scoring'. I'm not a fan of putting more layers on a dog for exercise. I prefer to recommend walking them in the cooler periods of the day. Cool water and shade should be available always, and a cooling mat for Ted to lie on if he so wishes. Q) TWO dogs and two cats have moved in next door, and Bella, our 12-year-old West Highland terrier, is now weeing a lot. She even wakes me in the middle of the night to go into the garden. Could the new cats and dogs be affecting her? She's had a blood test, and there's no diabetes, but there is a lot of protein, which affects kidneys. VIRGINIA SPRING, Southend-on-Sea, Essex Sean says: Certainly a switch in circumstances in the home, or next door's garden, can lead to changes in toileting behaviour. But I would associate that more with male dogs marking their territory. The flag here is excessive protein in her blood. Has Bella had a urine test too? If not, pop a tray under her when she squats and decant the urine into a sterile jar from your vet. This warrants further investigation. Star of the week 4 Ralph and Walker the Newfoundlands are hero dogs known for their ability in the water Credit: Supplied TWO Newfoundlands, Ralph and Walker, took to the water with a group of injured veterans as part of a wellbeing event to boost mental health. The dogs jumped into a lake and gently pulled the ex-servicemen back to dry land – leaving smiles all round. Their owner, paramedic Pete Lewin, of Leicester, said: 'Newfies are known for their abilities in the water. "But they also have incredible personalities and being with them has amazing restorative impacts.' Many of the veterans who attended the event last month are members of military charity Blesma – the UK's limbless veterans association – and spokeswoman Sarah Criddle told Paws and Claws: 'The wellbeing factor was so powerful.' See WIN: London Pet Show LONDON Pet Show Live offers a fun-packed family experience that's both educational and entertaining. For a chance to win one of five family tickets for two adults and two children under 16, worth £50, send an email headed PET SHOW LIVE to sundaypets@ The event runs on September 20 and 21 at Olympia. See for more details. T&Cs apply. Howl to communicate with your dogs 4 A pet expert has explained the wide range of emotions dogs experience Credit: Supplied A LEADING pet expert has revealed the secrets to communicating with your dog. Jo Middleton, owner of learning platform Canine Principles, believes pups are often misunderstood. The co-presenter of The Dog Expert Podcast said: 'What if your dog's 'bad behaviour' isn't disobedience, but a communication issue? If a dog feels safe, it is so much more capable of learning and adapting.' Dogs experience a broad spectrum of emotions. Jo said joy is often shown through tail wagging and excitement. Fear is indicated by cowering, shaking or avoiding eye contact. Frustration can cause barking, chewing or pacing. Grief can lead to withdrawal. But there could be subtle differences that owners also need to be aware of. Jo added: 'A wagging tail doesn't always mean happiness – the position and speed tell you more. 'Whining and barking convey different things depending on context. Sudden shifts in behaviour may be your dog's way of signalling distress.' She urged owners to use positive reinforcement, such as verbal cues like 'good boy' or treats when communicating.
