About Toby

Toby, a former pound dog, is dedicated to helping pound and shelter dogs find new homes.

What is a Heart Dog?

February 26, 2012 By Toby Leave a Comment

What is a Heart Dog? Every now and then, a very special dog comes into your life and changes the way you think about things forever.Sometimes these dogs don’t stay very long. Sometimes they’re not even your dog, but leave footprints on your heart, nevertheless.The first time I ever heard the term ‘Heart Dog’ was the day Ally died. Ally was the much-loved companion of a Rescue Angel. As a Rescue person’s dog, she would meet and greet all the new pound refugees, and help them settle in. Yet, this sweet little dog was soon to die tragically, and her sudden departure caused her human family heartfelt grief.Ally is now the Heart Dog logo, and will be with us in spirit for as long as Pound Dogs need welcoming into new safe houses. Toby’s Legacy A few years ago, I noticed a photo of a particular dog on a pound website. A tiny, pop-eyed Mini Foxie-JRT-Chihuahua cross looked out at me beseechingly. I sensed he was distressed and bewildered. It would have … [Continue reading...]

Pound Dog Day 25 June

February 26, 2012 By Toby Leave a Comment

Pound Dog Day is an initiative of Dogs Across Australia. Pound Dog Day occurs on the 25th June each year and created to draw attention to the appalling ‘Kill’ culture that exists in Australian. It is estimated that over 100 000 healthy dogs are killed each year in council Pounds. Rate-payer funds this slaughter. Pound Dog Day is … [Continue reading...]

Before you adopt a Pound Dog

February 14, 2012 By Toby Leave a Comment

Adopting a pound dog means that you are literally saving a life. In most pounds, unclaimed dogs can be killed after 14 days if microchipped or 7 days if not identified. See Micro-chippingSome dogs are surrendered and can be killed at any time as councils do not feel they are obliged to find a new home for an unwanted dog. However, some pounds … [Continue reading...]

Rescue Shelters

January 23, 2012 By Toby Leave a Comment

Dogs Across Australia links to many of the Rescue Shelters and provides the Adopt a Dog gallery to help the shelter dogs find new homes,The dogs in the Adopt a Dog gallery are updated regularly.The Rescue Shelters work with the various councils to rescue, rehabilitate and rehome pound dogs.The dogs should come to you Desexed & … [Continue reading...]

Dog Pound Finder

January 23, 2012 By Toby Leave a Comment

Dogs Across Australia’s new map-based search is now available.If you are serching for a lost pet, please use the 'Browse by State' or 'Map Search' to locate your nearest Dog Pound.Be proactive and look on the pound website daily. Councils maintain unregistered dogs for up to 7 days or 14 days if microchipped.Surrendered dogs … [Continue reading...]

The Rescue Angel

December 25, 2011 By Toby Leave a Comment

Rosa Canina is the dog Rescue Angel Rosa Canina holds the key to life The Rescue Angel believes dogs are family members & have the right to live The Rescue Angel says - adopt your next dog or puppy from a Rescue Shelter or Dog Pound If you love dogs and want to help the Rescue Shelters save them, these are just some ways you can … [Continue reading...]

How to help the Rescue Shelter dogs

November 9, 2011 By Toby Leave a Comment

The Rescue Shelters save pound dogs daily. Before the dogs can be rehomed, most need vaccinating and desexing.If you would like to help one or more of the Rescue Shelters, please consider these options:Be an Angel’ CampaignDuring and after the holidays, dog pounds start filling up with unwanted dogs. At Christmas time in particular, … [Continue reading...]

D & V Sponsorship

November 8, 2011 By Toby Leave a Comment

Desex and Vaccinate Sponsorship Help the rescue shelters by paying something towards the primary health care of the newly rescued pound dogs.Because vaccinations are not yet mandatory, unvaccinated puppies and dogs can contract deadly diseases such as Canine Parvovirus, Canine Distemper or Canine Hepatitis from the pound.Rescue Shelters do … [Continue reading...]

Dogs and Kids

November 7, 2011 By Toby

The little Petunia Faerie asks that you welcome and care properly for your new puppy as he or she is now a member of your family. Always treat your puppy as you would like to be treated by your parents. Remember that puppies are NOT toys to play with then throw away like yesterday's Christmas present once they start to grow up.You could adopt … [Continue reading...]

Dog Friendly Caravan Parks

October 31, 2011 By Toby Leave a Comment

Find dog friendly caravan parks in AustraliaDogs love caravan holidays!There now many dog friendly caravan parks -you just couldn’t leave them behind.Dogs Across Australia links to a number of websites listing pet friendly caravan parks as well as caravan park review site.Go See Australia - Have pooch, will travel! Many more … [Continue reading...]

Pet Friendly Accommodation

October 31, 2011 By Toby Leave a Comment

Don’t leave your dogs behind, pet friendly accommodation is available! See Stayz, Take a Break or Wotif for pet friendly holiday lets, bed & breakfast or hotel/motel accommodation:STAYZ – Thousands of pet and dog friendly holiday accommodation in Australia including NSW, Victoria, South Australia and Queensland. Choose from beach … [Continue reading...]

UVI – Donations

October 27, 2011 By Toby Leave a Comment

UVI donations Occasionally Rescue Shelters rescue dogs that go on to develop health problems that require urgent veterinary intervention.Because vaccinations are not yet mandatory, unvaccinated puppies and dogs can contract deadly disease such as Canine Parvovirus, Canine Distemper or Canine Hepatitis from the pound. However, these diseases … [Continue reading...]

Jacqui Cleijne

October 27, 2011 By Toby Leave a Comment

Jacqui Cleijne is from Hobart Tasmania, Australia. Her favourite subjects are Wildlife & Nature, but she also has a love for portraying the family pet, which has become a speciality.Jacqui: My work is highly detailed, custom made, hand painted art works, specialising in portraying our wonderful pets which include cats, dogs, horses, & … [Continue reading...]

Catherin McMillan

October 27, 2011 By Toby Leave a Comment

Catherin McMillan of Animal Art House specialises in detailed hand drawn chalk pastel pet portraits or watercolour or acrylic portraits of dogs, cats and horses Her work can be commissioned worldwide. Catherin is a strong supporter of animal causes and is fundraising for one of the rescue shelters listed on this website.Says Catherin:I … [Continue reading...]

Basic kitten care

October 25, 2011 By Toby Leave a Comment

After visiting the vet to have your kitten vaccinated and making an appointment for desexing, the next step is about supplying your new feline with his or her basic needs. Cat food Choose a good quality commercial brand tailored especially for kittens to supply all the vitamin and minerals your kitten requires to grow into a healthy cat. Use both … [Continue reading...]

Your new kitten

October 25, 2011 By Toby 1 Comment

Cat care isn't particularly difficult, but following a few basic rules when the kitten first comes to your home can help your feline grow into a healthy, contented cat. Your first priority should be an appointment with the vet to discuss having your new kitten vaccinated and desexed.Rescue shelter kittens should come to you desexed and with … [Continue reading...]

Litter box training

October 18, 2011 By Toby Leave a Comment

Training kittens to use the litter box is fairly straightforward. Cats in general are neat, clean and tidy and seem content to have an allocated toilet box for daily use.When selecting a toilet box, remember that the sides must low enough for a small kitten to easily get in. Replace the toilet box when the cat reaches adulthood.Cat litter … [Continue reading...]

Cat toys prevent boredom

October 16, 2011 By Toby Leave a Comment

Cats are hunters by nature and cat toys play the role of hunted in mock hunting games Cats are also intelligent and naturally inquisitive, so if the toy moves, or can be pounced upon and preferably squeeks as well, then this the toy of choice. Companion cats tend not to get as much exercise as they did previously hunting for a living, so it's … [Continue reading...]

Domestic cats vs wildlife

October 16, 2011 By Toby Leave a Comment

While you would like to enjoy your cat without interference, then wildlife too has the right to live without being hunted. Roaming suburban cats hunt and kill wildlife if allowed outside.Cats at large can also contract serious diseases such as feline AIDS from infected cats. There is the risk too of injury or being killed by a vehicle. … [Continue reading...]

Boy Dog Names

October 12, 2011 By Toby Leave a Comment

Boy dogs names used by the Rescue Shelters. When you adopt your next puppy or dog from a Rescue Shelter these are just some of the names you might select: Boy Dog NamesA Adam, Alfie, Archie, Alex, Anzac, Ashley, Axel, Austin, AJ,B Barney, Baxter, Barnaby, Beaumont, Benji, Benny, Benson, Blue, Bronson, Bundy,C Cadel, Cavell, … [Continue reading...]

Girl Dog Names

October 12, 2011 By Toby Leave a Comment

Girl dogs names used by the Rescue Shelters. When you adopt your next puppy or dog from a Rescue Shelter these are just some of the names you might select:Girl Dog NamesA Alice, Ali, Avril, Angie, Angel, Angelina, Annabel,B Bella, Becky, Bessie, Bindi, Blondie, Bobbi, Bonnie, Bridie, Bridgette, Bronte,C Candy, … [Continue reading...]

Border Collies – working or agility dogs

October 12, 2011 By Toby Leave a Comment

Border Collies are medium-sized working dogs with a body slightly longer than their tail. There are two coat varieties: short and sleek; or long-haired and rough. Border Collies are energetic working dogs and were traditionally used in Australia for herding live-stock, where their intelligence and stamina was put to good use. These days Border … [Continue reading...]

Papillon the butterfly dog

October 10, 2011 By Toby Leave a Comment

Papillons are vivacious, small, fine-boned toy dogs, colloquially known as butterfly dogs because the hair on the ears is long and fringed, giving them a butterfly-like look. Papillons have a straight, long, fine, single coat and a long tail set high and carried over their body. Daily combing and brushing keeps the coat in good condition. Bathing … [Continue reading...]

Maltese are loving people-focused dogs

October 9, 2011 By Toby Leave a Comment

The Maltese is a small toy dog, thought to have originated in the Mediterranean island of Malta, although its origins have also been linked to the now extinct Sicilian town of Melita.The depiction of an ancient ancestor to the Maltese was found on a Greek amphora in what was once an Etruscan town. References to the Maltese can also be found in … [Continue reading...]

Introduction Dogs Across Australia ****

October 8, 2011 By Toby Leave a Comment

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Fresh water daily

October 6, 2011 By Toby Leave a Comment

Aquette, the tiny fresh water sprite, says: Drinking water for dogs should be changed daily. Why do dogs need fresh water—do they really notice? Dogs need their water changed daily to avoid the build-up of bacteria. How does bacteria get into the water? When dogs drink, some of their saliva drips into the water. Then flies and other insects … [Continue reading...]

Puppy games for kids

October 6, 2011 By Toby Leave a Comment

Pixie says: Puppies and young dogs need to play puppy games. It helps them to grow into strong, healthy dogs and teaches them to socialize. How long should they play puppy games? Puppies need to spend all night sleeping, and much of the day as well. So, when they are not asleep or eating (they need several feeds per day), puppies will spend much … [Continue reading...]

Warm beds for puppies

October 6, 2011 By Toby Leave a Comment

Sleep Pixie says: sleeping puppies need warm. comfortable dog beds Why can't puppies play a night time? When the sun goes down, you might still want to play, but your puppy or little dog must go to his puppy bed. Make sure their bed is inside the house, and is very warm and snug. Why are puppies sleeping all the time? Puppies are just like … [Continue reading...]

Dog coats and jackets

October 5, 2011 By Toby Leave a Comment

'Orange Blossom', says: Dogs suffer from the cold & small, thin-haired dogs should wear dog coats in winter. But dogs are covered in hair; surely they don’t feel the cold? Small dogs can’t produce enough body heat to keep themselves warm on cold days.Chihuahuas originated in Mexico, a very hot country. However, winters in Australia … [Continue reading...]

Cleaning dog’s teeth

October 5, 2011 By Toby Leave a Comment

Toothbrush Pixie, says: Did you know that dental care is really very important? Toothbrush Pixie, how can I prevent dog dental problems? Choose a dog toothbrush just the right size for your dog and some dog toothpaste But why can’t I just use people toothpaste? Because dogs can’t spit out used toothpaste or rinse their … [Continue reading...]

Dogs ears should be clean

October 5, 2011 By Toby Leave a Comment

Pansy faeries say: dogs ears need to be kept clean to prevent diseases Which dogs need their ears cleaned? Puppies and dogs all need their ears inspected a least once a week. Breeds with floppy ears, such as Cocker Spaniels, are more at risk of irritation or infection. Why? What can go wrong? Have you ever seen a Cocker Spaniel prick his ears … [Continue reading...]

Washing my dog

October 5, 2011 By Toby Leave a Comment

Water lily faeries say: Dog washing & dog grooming is good for dogs Why do dogs need washing? Dogs need to be kept clean, because dirt and grime sticks to their hair. Most dogs now live inside with people, so this means they must always be clean, just like other family members. Do they need dog shampoo, or can I just use … [Continue reading...]

The Pomeranian bonds well with people

October 5, 2011 By Toby Leave a Comment

The Pomeranian, or Pom, is named after the Pomerania region in Central Europe. It is descended from the larger spitz type dogs, specifically the German Spitz.A favourite of Queen Victoria, and therefore of interest to other dog enthusiasts, the size of the breed decreased by fifty per cent during the Victorian era. The red colouring of this … [Continue reading...]

Australian Silky Terrier – active & playful

October 5, 2011 By Toby Leave a Comment

The Australian Silky Terrier is a small toy breed of the terrier dog type. Bred from Yorkshire and Australian Terriers, and are now known as the Silky Terrier in North America and the Australian Silky Terrier in Australia.The Australian Silky Terrier is distinguished by a long silky, fine and glossy coat hanging straight and parted along the … [Continue reading...]

Kelpies are Australian working dogs

October 5, 2011 By Toby Leave a Comment

Kelpies are hard working Australian dogs. Robust and endlessly enthusiastic, they were bred to work sheep on outback stations and the farm lands of the south, often in harsh, hot conditions.This breed becomes attached to one person – their pack leader, and it’s from him or her they take their commands. It’s therefore necessary to act out … [Continue reading...]

Shih Tsu the little lion dogs

October 5, 2011 By Toby Leave a Comment

The Shih Tzu’s long, flowing double-coat is its most distinctive feature. The Shih Tzu, or lion dog, originated in China and is at least a thousand years old, making it among the earliest breeds. It was a house pet during the time of the Ming Dynasty and, in fact, the sole purpose of this toy breed is as a companion dog.Not afraid to stand up … [Continue reading...]

Pound Dog Story

October 5, 2011 By Toby Leave a Comment

Who will save the Pound Dog? The Pound Dog is on DEATH ROW in one of the council pounds. He was thoughtlessly given as a Christmas present to a child who didn't want him. The child's mother and father couldn't be bothered feeding him properly and nobody really loved him, even though he was a friendly, happy little dog.One day, he escaped from … [Continue reading...]

Jack Russell Terriers are active dogs

October 5, 2011 By Toby Leave a Comment

Jack Russell Terriers are intelligent and athletic. JRTs need homes that can offer them mental stimulation and exercise. Their high energy and drive makes them suited to sports such as fly-ball or agility trials. If ignored or left alone too much, they may resort to unwanted behaviour such digging. Obedience classes are also recommended to … [Continue reading...]

Mini Foxie a wonderful companion dog

October 5, 2011 By Toby Leave a Comment

The Mini Foxie makes a wonderful companion dog for families, singles and seniors. If what you seek in a companion is a good and affectionate temperament, loyalty, vigilance, small size, an easy to care for dog coat and few health problems, then this may be the dog for you. Toby, the Dogs Across Australia ‘logo’ is a Miniature Fox Terrier X … [Continue reading...]

Lovelies are the dogs we want to adopt

October 5, 2011 By Toby Leave a Comment

‘Lovelies’ is a term used for pure or mixed breed dogs that have the potential to make nice companions. These are just some of the reasons you might like to consider them as companions:The pretty Papillion X Maltese, the happy Terrier X Pomeranian, the teeny Chihuahua or the soulful Mini Foxie mixes are all 'Lovelies.' At other times, a … [Continue reading...]

Chihuahuas thrive with daily care

October 5, 2011 By Toby Leave a Comment

Chihuahuas are classed as ‘toy’ dogs. This does not mean they should be obtained simply because their size is a curiosity, and then left to their own devices when interest in them fades. Chihuahuas thrive in households where their daily care is a priority, and they make good companions for senior people or adults. They should never be left to … [Continue reading...]

Little brown dogs

October 5, 2011 By Toby Leave a Comment

Why a section on little brown dogs?Like Mini Foxies, they represent a popular type of dog. Of no particular breed, these little brown—or tan—dogs appear everywhere in pounds. They are usually gracile and petite, well-mannered, and either playful or soulful. As is to be expected, they make wonderful little companions for all sorts of … [Continue reading...]

Special dogs are part of our lives

October 5, 2011 By Toby Leave a Comment

Special dogs are those with particular needs. Some have suffered physical or psychological abuse, or both. However, many enlightened people in our society are prepared to assist and accommodate special dogs. They are now part of many Australian households. Even though their human carers try to offer them a normal lifestyle, the experiences these … [Continue reading...]

Mature dogs are trained and social dogs

October 5, 2011 By Toby Leave a Comment

There are many benefits of adopting mature dogs.Once a dog reaches the end of his puppy-hood he is referred to as a junior dog, then shortly after, a mature dog. Many of the impounded dogs are aged 2–5 years.Mature dogs are a good choice, given that some toy and small dogs can live to their late teens, while medium sized dogs have a life … [Continue reading...]

Old dogs are good friends for senior citizens

October 5, 2011 By Toby Leave a Comment

Older people don’t necessarily want the puppy some family members so keenly think they should have. They may in fact prefer the companionship of laid-back old dogs; ones that don’t constantly want to play or walk.Old dogs are already socialised and don’t need to attend obedience classes. Nor do they need tiring outings; in fact they are … [Continue reading...]

Recycle – collars, leads, dog beds & dog coats.

October 4, 2011 By Toby Leave a Comment

Recycled goods donated to the Rescue Shelters should be clean and in good condition.To find out what each shelter needs, please visit their website.These are just some of the items needed by the Rescue Shelters on a regular basis: dog beds dog coats freshly laundered blankets collars leadsIf you have any of these … [Continue reading...]

Bequests How to make a dog will

October 4, 2011 By Toby Leave a Comment

Help the shelter dogs by remembering the Rescue Shelters with a dog will - make a bequest today! Money left to the Rescue Shelters through bequests or a dog will can help save dogs lives!The shelters receive no government funding and rely heavily on the generosity of the Australian public. If you love dogs and already help by donating to … [Continue reading...]

Donate money to a Rescue Shelter

October 4, 2011 By Toby Leave a Comment

Why donate money to a rescue shelter? The rescue shelters are self-funded animal welfare groups dedicated to rescuing, rehabilitating and rehoming pound dogs. These animal rescue groups pay for the desexing and vaccination of dogs and provide food, shelter and transport.The longer it takes for dogs to find new homes for the dogs, the greater … [Continue reading...]

Fostering a shelter dog

October 4, 2011 By Toby Leave a Comment

'Be an Angel’ Campaign During and after the holidays, dog pounds start filling up with unwanted dogs. At Christmas in particular, dogs are given as unwanted presents then thrown out with the wrapping paper. Excuses vary. But the end result is the same, the dog ends up in the pound, while owers enjoy a holiday. See Pound Dog Story.The … [Continue reading...]

Dog fostering saves lives!

October 4, 2011 By Toby Leave a Comment

Rescue Angels – the dog fostering volunteers who make rescue a reality. Established Rescue Shelters work in conjunction with council Dog Pounds to save dogs from death row.The Rescue 'Angels' visit the pounds; photograph dogs in preparation for listing on various promotional websites and, depending on their involvement with the pounds, … [Continue reading...]

Rescue Shelter Fundraising

October 4, 2011 By Toby Leave a Comment

The Rescue Shelters receive no government funding. Fundraising helps pay the cost of vaccinating, desexing and feeding the Shelter Dogs. You can help by donating items directly to the shelters if requested, by purchasing products offered by the shelters or by sharing this information with as many people as possible!* Please note - Dogs Across … [Continue reading...]

Rescue Shelter Events

October 4, 2011 By Toby Leave a Comment

The Rescue Shelters receive no government funding. Fundraising Events help pay the cost of vaccinating, desexing and feeding the Shelter Dogs. You can help by donating items if requested, by participating or by sharing this information with as many people as possible! See Legal Disclaimer … [Continue reading...]

Why Pet Insurance?

September 27, 2011 By Toby Leave a Comment

As animals age, chronic diseases appear and treatment can very expensive. Heart murmur or degenerative mitral valve disease is a common cause of congestive heart failure, especially in small, older dogs but modern medicines can control the symptoms and make life comfortable for your pet.Complaints such as arthritis and osteoarthritis are … [Continue reading...]

Dog Vaccination Information

September 23, 2011 By Toby Leave a Comment

Vaccinating dogs early in life helps to prevent diseases.The disease: Canine parvovirus The prevention: C3 vaccinationCanine parvovirus is a particularly lethal disease among puppies, causing gastrointestinal tract damage and dehydration, which often results in cardiac syndrome in very young puppies. It is spread by contact with an … [Continue reading...]

The scratching cat

September 22, 2011 By Toby Leave a Comment

Scratching is natural for cats; they do it to trees, they do it to curtains, chairs and anything else that appeals. Can you stop the scratching cat? Cats cannot be prevented from scratching; it’s their way of marking their territory and establishing ownership of an area. Cats also mark by using their scent glands to warn other cats to stay … [Continue reading...]

Dog companions, our best friends?

September 22, 2011 By Toby

Your best friend may well turn out to have four legs and a tail. Having a dog isn’t all about training, feeding and worming, but knowing the basics will help you get to where you want be - living together happily without stress or conflict. The dog in turn rewards us by offering companionship.It’s pleasant to come home to your dog … [Continue reading...]

Dog dental disease in 80% of dogs

September 21, 2011 By Toby Leave a Comment

Dogs that eat soft food are more prone to plaque and tartar than dogs that eat dried food. In the past, dogs eating a natural diet also managed to avoid dental disease to some degree. What is a natural diet? The dogs’ ancestor, the wolf, ate what he could hunt, and he ate it all—fur, bones and stomach content. The crunchy part of this diet … [Continue reading...]

4. Teaching your dog the ‘down’ command

September 20, 2011 By Toby Leave a Comment

Once your dog has learnt to sit, you can progress to a similar command, ‘Down!’ The down command is important and you will come to rely on in many situations. Ensuring your dog is in the down position is important for when you need to leave him alone for a few minutes or for occasions when there are small children and visitors around. It's not … [Continue reading...]

8. How to stop your dog pulling on a leash

September 20, 2011 By Toby Leave a Comment

Perhaps you’ve just adopted an adult or junior dog. He hasn’t received proper lead training, but you didn’t know that and now you’re on the way to the park, only he’s leading and you’re being pulled along. This not a good situation to be in, and for children trying to walk large dogs, it can be dangerous. After all, he is hardly likely … [Continue reading...]

6. Introducing your dog to the ‘collar and lead’.

September 20, 2011 By Toby Leave a Comment

After gaining his trust with careful handling, it’s time to move on to lead training. Select a collar the right size for your dog’s age. If you have a junior dog, don’t buy a collar that he will ‘grow into’ next year. It needs to fit today. Avoid heavy, chunky collars for small or medium breed puppies; collars need to be comfortable and … [Continue reading...]

2. Handling a dog the correct way

September 20, 2011 By Toby Leave a Comment

Some dogs are fearful of being handled. Perhaps they have been hit by previous owners and associate touching with pain. Others are simply not used to close contact with people.In the dog world, paw on body contact either means rough and tumbling with siblings or aggression towards other dogs.For dogs that need to learn that handling and … [Continue reading...]

1. Teaching a dog his name

September 20, 2011 By Toby Leave a Comment

But does he know his name? Of course a dog must know his name; after all you’ve been calling him all day! Is he ignoring you? Not really, he probably just wonders what it is you’re barking at and whether or not he should become involved.Keep your speaking tone conversational, just as if you’re speaking to someone at work. There is no … [Continue reading...]

5. Teaching your dog the ‘stay’ command

September 20, 2011 By Toby Leave a Comment

Once your dog has understood the down command, ‘Stay’ will teach him to remain in the down position for longer. Take your dog to a quiet area of the house or garden and tell him ‘Down’. Down means he is laying flat with his paws in front of him.Hold your hand towards him, palm flat, to indicate the down and stay position. Say, … [Continue reading...]

3. Teaching your Dog the sit command

September 19, 2011 By Toby Leave a Comment

One of the most important commands you'll ever teach your dog is 'Sit!' Puppies need to learn how to react to your instruction as early as possible to avoid dangerous situations. If you have just adopted a dog, this is a command he needs to learn very early on.We all want to take care of our dogs and make sure they don't run in front of cars … [Continue reading...]

7. Training your dog to ‘walk on the lead’

September 19, 2011 By Toby Leave a Comment

How often have we seen a dog owner being pulled along relentlessly by his or her dog? The situation may appear comical, but it shows that the person is not in control of the situation.When walking, the leader goes first and that leader needs to be the human, not the dog. It's not good for the dog's state of mind to think he’s the alpha, and … [Continue reading...]

Dog Health – A step by step guide

September 19, 2011 By Toby Leave a Comment

Dog health starts with freedom from easily preventable but serious life threatening diseases. It is not necessary for dogs to die terrible deaths from common diseases that are prevalent in our community, vaccinations are inexpensive and easy to obtain.If your dog is not yet vaccinated, follow the links to the Vaccinating Puppies, where you … [Continue reading...]

Puppy training tips

September 19, 2011 By Toby Leave a Comment

Puppies are a delight and they deserve your love and attention; they also need education and discipline to function properly and to socialise well with people and other animals. Some of the more basic rules need to be taught at an early age, while other forms of education such as advanced obedience training and perhaps even agility training come … [Continue reading...]

Crate training puppy

September 19, 2011 By Toby Leave a Comment

Crates are used as a way of managing puppies. However, some puppies are not suited to crates and become fearful when confined.Other puppies benefit from the security of an enclosed, protected area—such pups are suited to crate training.A puppy may not like his crate at first, but after a day or two may find it a comfort. Crates should not … [Continue reading...]

Socialise your new puppy

September 19, 2011 By Toby Leave a Comment

Puppies need to fit into families and learn to get on well with new people as well as other dogs and cats.They need to feel confident about visiting your friends and their companions. Off-leash park visits should be fun not frantic, and games on the beach shouldn't mean rough play with other dogs. But first they need to learn how.If a puppy … [Continue reading...]

Which dog bed for my new puppy?

September 19, 2011 By Toby Leave a Comment

Sleeping is very important for a new puppy and the quality of his dog bed will make all the difference.Remember that a puppy needs to spent all night sleeping and much of the day if he is to grown into a contented, healthy adult dog. Puppies are not play things, and children or visitors should not disturb sleeping puppies.For a puppy … [Continue reading...]

Puppy Mills – opposed by animal welfare groups

September 19, 2011 By Toby Leave a Comment

Puppies for sale! This is an ad you’ll see in newspapers and on certain websites. Be aware that the laws in many Australian states still permit backyard breeders and puppy factories (puppy mills) to operate, despite opposition from all animal welfare groups.Some of these ‘breeders’ supply batches of puppies to sell to the public, … [Continue reading...]

9. How to prevent dogs jumping

September 19, 2011 By Toby Leave a Comment

Dogs should not be permitted to jump on humans unless invited. Far from being a 'greeting', jumping is a dog's way of asserting his dominance over people.In some situations, this can be dangerous. Never allow your dog to jump on a child, especially if the child is smaller than the dog.Some dog owners think it amusing to watch their dog … [Continue reading...]

Separation anxiety is a real issue for dogs

September 19, 2011 By Toby Leave a Comment

Do you ever have days when everything's coloured in shades of grey?Then welcome to the world of the dog suffering from separation anxiety.Our dogs feel the same sense of loneliness and isolation that we do when we are alone for to long, this leads to behavioral issues, such as barking, digging and other forms of attention seeking … [Continue reading...]

Tick & flea control in dogs

September 19, 2011 By Toby Leave a Comment

video-petmeds-proticall-flea-control-for-dogs

Ticks are a common parasite and occur mainly along the eastern seaboard and across the coastal north of Australia.Brown dog ticks (rhipicephalus sanguineus) can be found clustered in great numbers in dogs' ears, between the toes and to a lesser extent on the body. They are a source of constant irritation and in large numbers can cause … [Continue reading...]

Heartworm prevention & treatment in dogs

September 19, 2011 By Toby Leave a Comment

Heartworm - Once confined to the tropics, this deadly mosquito borne disease can now affect dogs in all parts of Australia. Even if out-breaks in your region are uncommon, transiting dogs may carry the disease.Both dogs and cats can be infected with heartworm, which is usually fatal if left undiagnosed or untreated. Even when it is diagnosed, … [Continue reading...]

Worms cause unnecessary & debilitating health problems

September 19, 2011 By Toby Leave a Comment

Worms in dogs cause unnecessary & debilitating health problems; check to see if they are affecting your pet's health. Regular worming is the only effective way of preventing internal parasites. Dogs can carry several types of worms, and can share some of them with you and your family. Controlling worms is easy and inexpensive, but left … [Continue reading...]

Animal cruelty. Are puppy mills a problem?

September 19, 2011 By Toby Leave a Comment

Thousands of dogs are killed each year in Australia.Did you know – that many of these sentient animals will lose their lives almost daily, in your local dog pound?After being killed, the dogs’ bodies are then dumped at the rubbish tip. This continues, every week, every year, using ratepayer's money…your money.One of the … [Continue reading...]

Dog barking? Introduce exercise & stimulation.

September 19, 2011 By Toby Leave a Comment

Barking dogs annoy the neighbours and are often reported to the council. But is it their fault? There are many reasons why dogs bark, but the most common reason for problem barking is that your dog just has too much energy...and is not get enough exercise. Some dog owners just don't realize how much exercise a dog needs for his physical and … [Continue reading...]

Microchipping identifies your dog for life.

September 19, 2011 By Toby Leave a Comment

Microchipping is permanent and identifies your dog for life.A microchip the size of a grain of rice is implanted under the skin between the shoulder blades at the back of the dog’s neck. Each microchip has a unique number that can be detected using a scanner.These details are recorded in a central database. In the event your dog is … [Continue reading...]

Dog tags

September 19, 2011 By Toby Leave a Comment

Microchipping is a permanent (but invisible) form of identification and will compulsory for all Australian dogs as from 1 January 2012. However, chips can only be read by a scanner. Scanners are used mainly by dog pounds, rangers and veterinarians. Dog tags are quick, cheap way of identifying your dog. In the event your dog escapes and only makes … [Continue reading...]

Dog Training: Introduction to the Basics

September 19, 2011 By Toby Leave a Comment

Dogs are easy to train, once you know how. It’s important to have your dog trained to the stage where day to day living does not involve constant conflict or misunderstanding between the dog and humans.The dog that constantly pulls on the lead, jumps on people or dashes off in the park, probably hasn’t received any basic training. This is … [Continue reading...]

Why thousand of dogs are killed annually

September 19, 2011 By Toby Leave a Comment

Thousands of dogs are killed annually in Australian pounds mainly by the use of lethal injections or even gassing or shooting. Why are so many unwanted dogs being killed?Is it because of backyard breeders, puppy mills, pounds selling unsexed dogs? Should owners be licensed to own dogs? At present, anyone can buy a dog regardless of … [Continue reading...]

Desex male dogs to prevent wandering

September 19, 2011 By Toby Leave a Comment

Desexing male dogs prevents them escaping to impregnate females in season, thereby producing unwanted puppies. An undesexed male dog is programmed to seek out bitches in season. Your seemingly content dog may suddenly make a concerted effort to escape his comfortable and safe home to seek a mate, as a female’s pheromones are detectable streets … [Continue reading...]

Desex females to prevent unwanted puppies

September 19, 2011 By Toby Leave a Comment

Once the cute female puppy you brought home is about six months, her cycles start as she comes into season. She can then mate about twice a year.During each season, vaginal bleeding may last up to three weeks and you will be faced with hygiene issues if she is an indoor dog. Confining a dog to a small room or keeping an indoor dog outside for … [Continue reading...]

Desex your dog – be a responsible pet owner

September 19, 2011 By Toby Leave a Comment

Desexing takes place in the sterile environment of an animal hospital and requires the care and skill of a qualified veterinarian. The dog receives a general anesthetic before the surgical procedure of desexing occurs. Most return home on the same day as the surgery is performed.Desexing male dogs: males are castrated – this means both … [Continue reading...]

Vaccinate puppy & prevent life – threatening diseases

September 11, 2011 By Toby Leave a Comment

Vaccinating your puppy early in life helps prevent life-threatening diseases. The cost of vaccinations for puppies are cheap compared to treatment. Ask your veterinarian about his prices. The three deadly dog diseases are:Canine parvovirus Canine distemper Canine hepatitisCanine parvovirus Parvo is highly contagious. All … [Continue reading...]

Puppy Vaccination Timetable

September 11, 2011 By Toby Leave a Comment

If you have just adopted a pound dog or have bought a dog from shop, newspaper or elsewhere and haven’t sighted his or her vaccination certificate, you will need to discuss this with your vet immediately.The C3 vaccine is the minimum vaccination your dog needs.Canine Parvovirus Canine Distemper Canine HepatitisVaccinating … [Continue reading...]

Desex puppies & prevent unwanted litters

September 11, 2011 By Toby Leave a Comment

Puppies should be desexed before they first come into season and many are done by the age of twelve weeks or slightly older.Desexing puppies around about the age of eight weeks is also possible due mainly to advances in modern anesthetics. Early desexing is practiced by some animal welfare agencies faced with overpopulation … [Continue reading...]

A teething puppy needs to chew

September 11, 2011 By Toby Leave a Comment

Puppies do not chew things because they are 'naughty'—far from it. They need to chew because they are teething. Adult teeth are bursting through their gums and the only thing that makes them feel more comfortable is chewing.Prevent your own items from becoming teething things for puppies by providing a number of suitable chewy food treats and … [Continue reading...]

Adopt a Rescue Shelter puppy

September 11, 2011 By Toby Leave a Comment

Adopting a puppy from a reputable Rescue Shelter is often the easiest way of finding the pup that will best suit you or your family. Rescue Shelter puppies are:Desexed Vaccinated Wormed Heart worm tested or medicated (if in a high risk area)Puppies, like children, all have different personalities. Some are naturally outgoing and … [Continue reading...]

September 11, 2011 By Toby Leave a Comment

A pound is no place for a puppy.And the smaller the pup, the less likely he or she is to thrive. Although this is well understood by veterinarians and animal welfare workers, the special needs of small puppies are sometimes given low priority. Encouragingly, in NSW a system known as Duty of Care (DOC) permits authorised rescue shelters to … [Continue reading...]

Puppy care begins with vaccinating & desexing

September 11, 2011 By Toby Leave a Comment

Puppy care begins with having him/her vaccinated against serious life - threatening diseases:Canine Parvovirus Canine Distemper Canine HepatitisRead more about the vaccines that give life-long immunity to these deadly diseases - Vaccination Time TableVaccinations are inexpensive and readily available – phone your vet today and … [Continue reading...]

Cats for sale – too many kittens

August 29, 2011 By Toby Leave a Comment

Cats for sale - an add you'll find on notice boards and in newspapers across the country.Cat owners suddenly discover their undesexed female is the mother of eight kittens. Finding a home for just one kitten can be difficult, but what if there are several more to rehome?Many of the kittens or cats for sale are neither vaccinated or … [Continue reading...]

Adopt a pound cat or kitten

August 29, 2011 By Toby Leave a Comment

Kittens and cats are available from all of the city pounds and many of the regional pound all year around. Why are there so many impounded kittens? Many of the kittens or cats for sale on notice board or in newspapers are neither vaccinated or desexed and the few that do find homes are often left undesexed and so, in about six month time, the … [Continue reading...]

Cat rescue organisations

August 29, 2011 By Toby Leave a Comment

Are you looking to adopt a cat or a kitten?Cat rescue organisations operate throughout Australia. They work in conjunction with the pounds to rescue and rehome suitable cats and kittens. Many of the rescue shelters list both dogs and cats for adoption. The shelters offer felines that are desexed, vaccinated and socialized. If you would … [Continue reading...]

Desexing cats prevents unwanted kittens

August 29, 2011 By Toby Leave a Comment

Desexing cats is necessary to control overpopulationEach year, thousands of unwanted kittens are born—many are destroyed.. When the early buds of spring appear, so do the kittens. Look on any pound website and you’ll see scores of tiny pleading faces, all desperate for new homes that simply don’t exist.. Sometimes just the number of … [Continue reading...]

Dog food – puppies need a balanced diet

August 28, 2011 By Toby Leave a Comment

Once a puppy has been weaned by his mother, he no longer requires the milk of another species (cow or goat) as his digestive system cannot cope well with lactose. What to feed a puppyThere are a number of brands of dog food selling specially formulated food for puppies. Tinned dog food offers a variety of meats—beef, lamb, chicken and fish … [Continue reading...]

Toilet training your puppy

August 28, 2011 By Toby Leave a Comment

You have just brought your new puppy home from the pound and one of the first things you need to teach him toilet training. How long will it take to toilet train my puppy? There is no set time to toilet train a puppy, but somewhere between a couple of weeks to about three months is normal.As soon as your new puppy comes home, take him … [Continue reading...]

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