Pet Care

 

Pet Care and Responsible Ownership Most of the behavioural and veterinary problems we encounter at Battersea are due to owners not looking after their pets properly. In this section we give you some guidelines. But the basic needs are simple: to feel secure pets need to have a daily routine and be loved. Daily Routine Dogs need to be exercised regularly, usually twice a day in all weathers. You should carry poo bags with you to clean up after your dog (available from the Battersea Shop). You could be fined if you do not clear up after your dog in public areas. Cats will not use dirty litter trays and may resort to using your pot plants instead so replace litter daily and disinfect trays regularly.

Toys and play should also be an important part of both a dog and cat’s daily routine. Playing games will help to exercise your pet and prevent boredom and destructive behaviour. This is particularly important for Indoor cats.

Toys should not be left on the floor all the time, as they will simply become boring. A toy box could be useful so that you can decide when it is playtime and not your pet!

Tinned or dried pet food provides a balanced, nutritious diet but remember to provide extra water with dried food. Dry food is much better for your pet as it does not encourage as many dental problems. Tinned food tends to have a much higher sugar content and so causes more dental build up.

Don’t feed your dog or cat food from your dinner table – this will encourage him to scrounge from you. Save any scraps from your meal, that you wish to give your dog or cat, and mix these with his food at his dinnertime.
 

Water must always be clean and fresh. Human food is not recommended. Chocolate can be poisonous to dogs. Your pet's bed should be in a quiet, draught-free place out of direct sunlight. Vacuuming or laundering the bedding will keep smells, and fleas, at bay. Most breeds of dogs and cats shed their hair throughout the year, so require grooming on a regular basis. Regardless of hair length, all dogs and cats should be groomed regularly as it helps to promote healthy skin. They should only be washed when necessary as bathing them too often can lead to them losing the natural oils in their coat. These oils help to make their coats waterproof.

Good Behaviour
Both you and your dog will be happier if he is socialised with people and other animals, and is easy to control. Dog-training classes allow your dog to meet others in a controlled environment, and enable you to learn correct handling techniques. This will strengthen the bond between you. Socialising from an early age will help prevent behavioural problems. Regular walks provide your dog with a change of scene and the chance to meet other dogs. Remember, your dog needs a social life too. Don't encourage your dog to chase cats or other small animals.

Most cats need access to a garden but indoor cats, who do not benefit from the mental stimulation provided by the outside world, can become bored and stressed. This can lead to serious behavioural problems and destructiveness. Cat activity toys are available so your cat can amuse herself when you are absent just make sure that anything you give your cat is safe. Both indoor and outdoor cats enjoy playtime so interact with your cat through play, and provide a scratching post so she can exercise her claws without shredding your sofa. Studies have shown that indoor cats who are allowed to sleep on their owner's bed at night are happier and more confident cats.

 

Health & Pet Insurance Don't wait until your pet becomes ill before registering with a vet. Your pet will need annual vaccinations which is also a good opportunity for a complete health check. Your vet will advise on the most effective worming and anti-flea treatments, as your pet's health will suffer if parasites are not controlled. Regular grooming keeps coats clean and healthy, and is essential if you have a long-haired pet. Neutering not only prevents unwanted litters but also tumours and other health problems. If you have a male dog or cat, it can also help to curb straying or aggression. Cats are prolific breeders. In five years, a female cat can be responsible for 20,000 offspring. Battersea Dogs & Cats Home neuters all adult cats, and a high percentage of adult dogs, before they go to new homes.

Pet insurance is an important consideration. A relatively small regular payment will guard against unexpected veterinary fees and allow you to provide the best healthcare for your pet. There are a number of pet insurance policies to choose from. Ensure the policy includes third party liability to cover you should your pet cause an accident.

Identification & Loss Prevention
Most owners wrongly assume that their pet will never go missing but sadly, as the number of strays we receive every day proves, they are mistaken. Identification is important for both dogs and cats. It is a legal requirement that all dogs wear a collar and identity disc. Cats should wear elasticated collars, which will allow them to escape should they become entangled whilst climbing. Microchipping is a widely recognised method of permanent identification. Your vet can provide this service. We microchip all Battersea dogs and cats before they go to new homes.

In the street, keep your dog on a lead at all times. Before letting him off in a safe area for the first time, be confident he will respond to your recall. Do not let your dog out on his own. He will be classed as a stray and could be impounded. Ensure your pet's vaccinations are up to date before allowing your pet outside.

Cats should not be shut out at night. Most road traffic accidents involving cats occur after dark and it's rather cruel to force a cat outside after she has spent the evening indoors, especially during cold weather. You may choose to accustom your cat to staying in at night and provide her with a litter tray. To become familiar and confident in her new surroundings, a newly acquired cat should be kept inside for at least four weeks. Do not feed her before letting her out for the first time but feed her immediately she returns. You can train her to respond to a signal when food is ready for instance, by whistling. Kittens should not be let out until they are at least six months old.

For more information on identification and loss prevention, take a look at the Battersea website at www.dogshome.org

For legal information on dog ownership, please take a look at our legal information section of the website.

Going Away
When planning a trip away, ensure you make proper arrangements for your pets. You should only consider friends or neighbours if they can be trusted to care for them properly. If necessary, take time to introduce your pet to his carer before you go away. For instance, your friend joins you and your dog on a couple of walks. Explain his daily routine and leave contact numbers for yourself and your vet in case of emergencies. Put a new identity disc on your pet's collar with the contact details of his temporary owner.

If you are considering a boarding kennels or cattery, visit beforehand to check it is suitable. Ask things like, how many daily walks do the dogs get? Word of mouth is the best recommendation. You will need to book up well in advance, especially at peak holiday times, as the best kennels and catteries are always well booked.

Children
Most dogs and cats co-exist happily with children if they have lived with them from an early age. It is important that children are taught to respect animals and are not allowed to treat them as toys. For instance, teach children the correct way to pick up a cat. Pets need their own space, so children should not disturb your pet when he is sleeping or eating. Never leave a dog alone with children. Always supervise to ensure children do not tease or overexcite your pet.