News

22 children from the Okanagan Boys and Girls Club (in British Colombia) took part in a series of sessions to help them build their social skills using therapy dogs. Each week the children were taught a new skill, such as introducing themselves or giving directions to others. One participant noticed that the children behaved better at the sessions than at their regular after-school care program, and they thought it was because the children liked being around the dogs. Another aspect of working dogs!

There are many benefits when owners learn to massage their dog. I love teaching Learn to Massage Your Dog!

In the February issue of NZ Dog World, I speak with one of the co-owners of the Urban Eatery, Paul Talbot, about the company's decision to allow dogs inside its cafes (not just on the outdoor patios). My experienced cafe dog, Izzy, and her friends approved!

When feeding liver, it should be frozen first (or cooked, if you decide not to feed raw). I've discovered a bit of a loophole when it comes to buying human-grade liver for your dog....

This month's quote is from St Francis of Assisi. Doing no harm is the first principle of my practice. I take pride in providing a complete, Fear-Free, service to my human and dog customers!

Researchers at the University of Helsinki are investigating the significance of the living environment to canine health. In their latest research, they have found that, iIn urban environments, allergic diseases are more common among dogs and their owners compared to those living in rural areas.

Researchers at Washington State University undertook a cross-cultural analysis to determine the factors that played a role in developing the human and dog relationship. "We found that dogs’ relationships with women might have had a greater impact on the dog-human bond than relationships with men..."

The recent case in crisis of stolen puppy, Billy, serves as a reminder to us all. Dogs are not safe tied up outside shops. I also think life could be a lot nicer for our dogs and us if we had more dog-friendly shops...

In this post, I explain my thoughts on the pledge that all dog owners should make for 2021.

Plastic ball launchers are probably the cheapest toy on the market - and likely one of the most hazardous, too. In this blog post, I explain the forces that are exerted on your dog's muscles and soft tissues and why using a ball launcher to exercise your dog is risky. Let's ban these cheap toys and work together on fitness programmes that are enriching and safe for your dog.