Parenting

Available vaccines have controlled the transmission of parvovirus infection, but sometimes, even vaccinated dogs get infected and die due to this disease. Better understanding of the disease and sources of the virus by pet parents can prevent and reduce the spread of this disease and untimely loss of their altruistic companions. Canine parvovirus (CPV) infection is one of the most common…

British author and puppy mill campaigner, Janetta Harvey tells us about her dogs— Susie-Belle, Twinkle and Renae and how they have inspired her in a global campaign to end puppy mills. We’ve had Renae since she was eight weeks old and she’s now almost five. We don’t know how old Susie-Belle and Twinkle are, as they lived for many years in puppy mills as breeding dogs before they were…

You will surprise to know that there is a right technique of petting a dog. The morning hug, which makes up your day, might not be welcome by your pooch. Here’s how to pet your dog. Don’t generalise the dog’s behaviour and attributes, understand the need of your pet – before petting.  Here are few ways to pet a pooch: 1Understand the dog: Don’t pet a dog who doesn’t initiate contact…

Though monsoons are a huge respite from scorching summers, they bring with them many water-borne diseases or skin infections. Here are a few tips to take care of your pooch in monsoons: De-worm your pet periodically. Keep your pet tick-free. Do not feed him cold food and water. Do not take him for a walk in water-logged areas as it is a breeding ground for mosquitoes and pests. Clean…

The pet care industry is increasingly influenced by ‘lifestyle’ with trends in human life frequently crossing over into the world of pets. There is also increased focus on nutritional intervention to improve health and quality of life of pets. From OP Singh, Chairman-Vivaldis Health and Foods Pvt Ltd, let us understand what ‘lifestyle’ means when translated to the companion animal segment. What…

Sometimes, pet parents go overboard in pampering their pets, which makes the pets obese and attracts to ill health and can become life-threatening too. Here’s how to help your dog lose weight. Feed at fixed intervals: Do not let food available to your pooch at all times. Only feed him at fix intervals, in consultation with your vet. Right quantity: Give your dog breed-and age-specific diet, on…

Dogs are fast learners. You can begin teaching simple commands for everyday use by employing vocal instruction, treats or other methods like Clicker Training. These essential training techniques will ensure the overall well being of your pup . Bringing home a puppy is such a joy. But most pet parents give up training their dogs or some don’t start at all because the task of training seems so…

Growing up with a dog in the family is one of the most enjoyable and valuable experiences for a child. Here are a few games and activities to engage your child and your pooch. These days, thanks to the growing dependence on gadgets and related technology, children get hooked on to them from a very early age. Parents have been exploring other options to keep their children occupied and teach them…

You’ve decided to get a dog, great! But have you decided on a breed yet? Before you decide to get a breed of dog based on the look or image, you need to think about what the breed was originally bred for. For instance, can you handle a Terrier digging in your garden, or an Australian Cattle Dog chasing other animals? Here’s how to choose an appropriate breed. Megan, a purebred Australian…

A pup is a commitment for life. Space is vital, so you choose the breed as per the space available, advices Senthil who further mentions that first time pet parents must always ask to see the pup with the mother and littermates. “This way you get to know the hygiene factor and if ethical breeding standards are followed. Follow your heart to find your PAW-MATE,” he adds. Know your pup “Your…

Once you have decided to bring home a pup, it’s time to make your family and home ready for the tailwagger. Here’s how… Get the essentials: If you wish to crate train your pooch, bring a crate as per his size. Also, get all the essentials ready like his food and drinking bowls, leash, bed and bedding, ID tag, etc. Determine his ‘own’ place: Find a corner in the house which your pet can claim as…

This may be used as a guide for anyone wanting to adopt a pup. This will also give an insight to the readers regarding their own dogs. Let’s say I have decided I want a new puppy and have decided to own a female Labrador Retriever. Before I actually want the pup I will begin searching for reputable breeders. I don’t need them to have litters ready yet as at this point I want to know the knowledge…

-Even the most confident dogs can be scared of fireworks! Yes, your happy go lucky pet could be trembling, shaking and barking more during the coming celebrations at your home. It is important to understand that dogs and cats have stronger hearing power. So what we perceive to be loud is even louder and unbearable for the pets. In addition, dogs are also sensitive to vibrations caused by loud…

If you are planning to bring a pooch home, pause and think - are you really ready for a pooch? Here’s KPS way of knowing whether you are ready to bring that cuddly little one home: Reason for getting one: Think of the reason for getting a dog home – is it just because your child wants or it is the latest fad? Bring a dog only if you are looking for a companion, a buddy, a loving and lovable…