•Reduce walk times •Only walk early in the morning or late in the evening •Stick to shaded areas •Make sure your dog has access to water the whole walk •5 second rule-if you can’t hold your hand 🤚 on the pavement for 5 seconds then your dog should not be waking on it! •Make sure your dog has access to water and a cool shaded space at all times in your home •Remember dogs cool from the bottom up so a paddling pool or cooling mat to lie down in/on is a great idea •NEVER place a wet towel over your dog-this will create a pocket of hot air between your dog and the towel and will actually heat your dog up •NEVER leave your dog in a car not even for a minute or with the windows open For signs of heatstroke check out what the RSPCA has to say https://www.rspca.org.uk/adviceandwelfare/pets/dogs/health/heatstroke If you’re unsure about your pets health then please consult your vet
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Cat walking? Seriously? Yes seriously! Many cats find great pleasure being outside, enjoying the scents of flowers, the sound of birds chirping and although most cats in the UK are free to roam unsupervised it's not always possible. Your cat may have health issues, there may be a busy road or railway nearby, live in an apartment and many other reasons that may restrict your furry feline. So a lead isn't just for dogs eh? who knew? But here are some things to consider when taking your cat for walk.
1. The Lead Life Isn't For Every Cat. Not all cats will want to be walked, however, there are so many benefits to walking your cat so they should at least be given the opportunity. They will enjoy the exercise, scratching real trees, new smells and sounds all of which will engage your cat in a different way. 2. Cats Should Be Trained Inside First. For your cats safety start training indoors. Let your cat get familiar with their new lead and harness by leaving it in the house for them to smell, play with etc. seeing it as nothing to be afraid of. Next fit the harness on your cat, first let them drag it around then hold it letting them get a feel for it. 3. Cats Should Be Comfortable Before Heading Outdoors. Make sure the harness is fitted correctly not too tight not too loose, so that your cat is comfortable. Most importantly make this a positive experience try giving a treat at the same time as they have the lead on. 4. Don't Just Run Outdoors With Your Cat. Once your cat is happy with the lead and you feel he's ready, open the door let him sniff around and chose where he wants to go. Ideally the outdoor space should be a calm area with not too much going on. 5. Don't Let Your Cat Become An Escape Artist! If you live in an apartment and only want your cat to go out on the harness (for safety reasons) make it clear that it is only time to go out when the harness is on. One tip is to pick up your cat to leave through the door. 6. Have A Back Up Plan. Ok so your cat is fine with the lead, enjoying the great outdoors then all of a sudden a dog barks and he's panicked, what do you do? It is near on impossible to handle and calm down a freaked cat so it's a good idea to take a towel or carrier for your cat during their first encounters with the outside world. 7. Let Your Cat Lead You. Unlike dogs where you walk and they follow you to the shop or park etc. you should allow your cat to choose the direction they want, only guiding them gently away from hazardous areas. Important! Taking your cat out should be in your cats best interests NOT a novelty. Always consult with a professional. With patients, consistency and proper supervision you and your cat can both enjoy yourselves.
Please remember every dog is different! Consult your vet and keep an eye on your dogs behaviour to see if their needs are being met.
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Animal lover. Dog Walker Extraordinaire. Wanting to share my experience I have with animals to other pet lovers! ArchivesCategories
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