Bilsby Dog Field

18/01/2025

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14/01/2025

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24/12/2024

🎮 Let the Games Begin! - Fun and Engaging Ways to Teach Your Dog Through Play This Holiday Season

🎯 Learning through games is so much more fun for the whole family—and for your dog, too! Dogs learn much faster through play than through repetitive drills or withholding rewards. Play keeps things exciting, reduces frustration, and builds a stronger bond between you and your dog.

🎮 The holidays are a perfect time to introduce fun, enriching games to your dog’s routine. Whether it’s a snowy day indoors or a festive gathering, games can help channel your dog’s energy, sharpen their skills, and give them a sense of purpose—all while spreading holiday cheer!

🎯 Why Games Work

1. Engagement: Play taps into your dog’s natural instincts and keeps them motivated to learn.
2. Bonding: Games foster connection and trust, making training a positive experience for both you and your dog.
3. Stress Relief: During the busy holiday season, games provide a healthy outlet for energy and reduce stress in dogs and humans alike.
Fun Games to Try This Holiday Season

1. Find It! (Scent Work)
This simple game uses your dog’s natural sniffing instincts.
• Hide treats or toys around the house or yard.
• Start easy, placing the item in plain sight, then increase the difficulty.
• Encourage your dog with “Find it!” and celebrate when they locate the treasure!
Why it’s great: It’s mentally stimulating and perfect for rainy or snowy days.

2. Hide and Seek
Get the whole family involved in this fun game!
• Have someone hold your dog while you hide in another room.
• Call your dog and let them find you. Reward them with praise and a treat.
• For advanced dogs, hide in trickier spots or use multiple family members.
Why it’s great: This game reinforces recall and strengthens your dog’s bond with you.

3. The Muffin Tin Game
• Place treats in a few of the compartments of a muffin tin and cover each one with a tennis ball.
• Let your dog figure out how to move the balls to uncover the treats.
Why it’s great: It’s a fantastic puzzle game that keeps dogs mentally engaged.

4. Holiday Tug-of-War
Use a durable tug toy and engage in a friendly game of tug with your dog.
• Teach cues like “Take it” and “Drop it” during the game.
• Make it fun but stop if your dog gets too rough.
Why it’s great: It’s an excellent outlet for physical energy and can help teach impulse control.

5. Christmas Obstacle Course
Turn your living room into a holiday-themed agility course!
• Use chairs, cushions, and blankets to create tunnels, jumps, and weaving obstacles.
• Guide your dog through the course with treats and lots of encouragement.
Why it’s great: It provides exercise, improves coordination, and boosts confidence.
Tips for Success
• Keep sessions short and positive to prevent frustration.
• Use high-value treats or your dog’s favorite toy as rewards.
• Always supervise your dog during games to ensure safety.
• Let your dog set the pace—if they’re tired or overwhelmed, take a break.

🎮 The Gift of Play

Games aren’t just fun—they’re an opportunity to strengthen your bond, build trust, and teach your dog valuable skills. This holiday season, give your dog the gift of play. By incorporating games into your routine, you’ll keep your dog happy, engaged, and ready for a new year of adventures with you.

🎯 Finally a gift from Mutts and Mischief to you for your year round support - 10 YouTube tutorials for you to try with your dog(s)!

Let the games begin—and may your holidays be filled with wagging tails, happy hearts, and lots of fun!

Dog TV Enrichment - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WNOls9-0On0

Tug games for dogs and troubleshooting - https://youtu.be/jzawF6AA5FA

Teach your dog to bow trick - https://youtu.be/FCaFBwNPjG8

Come round trick - https://youtu.be/Q0WgjT_RFfc

Tell me a secret - https://youtu.be/hMxRu73ZJ2s

Discern object by name trick - https://youtu.be/nH1BudTFVx4

Teach your dog to count trick - https://youtu.be/Rp7R7GH5nN0

Novice trick Leave It - https://youtu.be/V22Fl-utWLk

Floor target - https://youtu.be/L-FzxklwXyo

Noise box game for dogs - https://youtu.be/cKdni2jku2A

23/12/2024

Puppy Love or Holiday Haste? - Why Thoughtful Planning, Not Surprise Puppies, Makes for a Lifetime of Joy

🐾 Bringing a new dog into your home is a lifelong commitment, and it’s one that should involve the whole family. Around the holidays, social media is often filled with videos of puppies given as surprise gifts, but this trend raises serious ethical and welfare concerns.

🚫 The Problem with Surprise Puppies

While it may seem heartwarming to surprise someone with a puppy, the reality is often far less idyllic. Puppies purchased without the knowledge or consent of the intended guardian are frequently unwanted. These situations leave homes unprepared for the demands of a new puppy and deprive the puppy of crucial bonding with their new guardian, during their sensitive developmental period with the breeder.

Moreover, presenting puppies in boxes or wrapping them as gifts may create a “cute” moment for a video, but it is deeply distressing for the puppy. Being confined and then suddenly exposed to a chaotic environment is frightening, especially during the critical early weeks when puppies are soaking up information that shapes their adult behavior.

🐾 Impact on Existing Pets

Surprise introductions are particularly risky when there are already dogs in the home. Without careful planning and proper introductions, older dogs may react with fear, frustration, or even aggression. Puppies may be overwhelmed, frightened, or harmed in these situations, which can negatively affect their ability to adapt and form positive relationships in their new home.

🚫 Emotional Overload

Holidays often bring heightened emotions—whether from grief, stress, or joy. For a puppy, being introduced into an emotionally charged atmosphere can be overwhelming. Puppies are babies, after all, and they are not equipped to handle intense emotions or chaos.

🐾 A Dog Is for Life

The saying may be overused, but it holds true: A dog is for life, not just for Christmas. Many responsible breeders and rescue organizations refuse to rehome dogs during the holiday season unless under exceptional circumstances. This is because dogs and puppies adopted impulsively during the holidays are at a higher risk of abandonment, as seen during the COVID-19 pandemic when shelters became overwhelmed with unwanted pets.

As someone who has worked in a rescue center, I’ve seen the heartbreaking aftermath of this “throwaway culture.” Dogs surrendered to shelters are often confused, stressed, and deprived of the love and security they once had.

✅ The Right Way to Welcome a Puppy

Welcoming a puppy into your home can be one of life’s greatest joys—but it must be done responsibly. Here are some key considerations:
• Discuss First: Ensure that the person who will be the primary guardian is on board and involved in every step of the process.
• Meet the Breeder: The guardian should be part of breeder introductions and selection to ensure compatibility and ethical practices.
• Prepare the Home: Puppy-proof the space and set up baby gates or safe areas to help both the puppy and any existing dogs adjust gradually.
• Plan Introductions: Proper introductions between a puppy and an older dog are essential to foster a positive relationship.

✅ If you want to gift a loved one the joy of a dog, consider alternatives like a handcrafted card or a box of puppy essentials. This gives the recipient time to plan and ensures that they are fully prepared for the responsibility of a new pet.

✅ Thoughtful Choices Create Lifelong Bonds

Bringing a dog into your family should never be a hasty or impulsive decision. Puppies are not just gifts—they are living, feeling beings who deserve a lifetime of care and love. By planning responsibly, you can ensure that the joy of welcoming a puppy lasts well beyond the holidays.

21/12/2024

🎄Mutts 'n' Mischief Festive holiday tip #21🎄

Post Holiday Paws - Keeping Your Dog Healthy and Happy - Essential Wellness Tips For a Fresh Start to the New Year

🏥After the holiday season, your dog’s health and well-being should be a top priority. Whether they’ve indulged in too many treats, been exposed to stressors, or simply had a disrupted routine, a post-holiday health check-up ensures your dog remains in top condition. Regular health monitoring, including checking for any lingering signs of stress or illness, is essential for making sure your dog stays happy and healthy throughout the new year.

🩺Key Considerations for Post-Holiday Health and Wellness

Monitor for Dietary Changes

Risk: Overindulgence in treats or holiday foods can lead to digestive issues or even food poisoning in dogs.

Prevention Tips: Ensure your dog is eating their regular food and monitor their eating habits closely.
If your dog has had extra holiday treats, keep an eye out for signs of an upset stomach, such as vomiting, diarrhea, or a loss of appetite.
Contact your vet if you notice any signs of food poisoning or if your dog’s digestive system isn’t returning to normal after a few days.

Check for Holiday-Related Injuries

Risk: Accidents or injuries can happen during the chaos of the holiday season, such as cuts from tinsel or decorations or sprains from excessive play.

Prevention Tips: Check your dog’s paws, coat, and body for any signs of injury. Look for cuts, scrapes, or any signs of irritation that may have occurred from contact with holiday decorations or rough play.
If your dog was particularly active, observe for any limping, stiffness, or signs of discomfort, which may indicate an injury or strain.

Schedule a Veterinary Check-Up

Risk: Stress, changes in diet, or a lack of physical activity during the holidays may affect your dog’s overall health.

Prevention Tips: Consider scheduling a routine check-up with your veterinarian to ensure your dog is in good health and to address any concerns.
A thorough check-up can help identify any potential health issues that may have been exacerbated by the holiday season.

Monitor Stress-Related Health Issues

Risk: Long-term stress can affect your dog’s physical health, leading to issues like changes in appetite, digestion, and even immune function.

Prevention Tips: Keep an eye out for stress-related symptoms, such as changes in behavior, excessive licking, or sensitivity to touch.

Provide extra comfort and reassurance during the post-holiday period to help your dog’s body recover from the emotional toll of the festivities.

🏥 Signs Your Dog May Need a Health Check

Vomiting, diarrhea, or changes in appetite.
Lameness or difficulty moving around.
Skin irritation or unexplained injuries.
Lethargy, excessive drooling, or increased thirst.
If you notice any of these signs, contact your veterinarian for a thorough check-up and guidance.

🩺 Action Steps for Guardians

Monitor your dog’s health closely after the holidays, especially if they’ve had extra treats or exposure to stress.
Check for any injuries or signs of discomfort that may have resulted from holiday activities.
Schedule a routine vet check-up to ensure your dog is in good health.
Provide extra comfort and attention to help your dog recover from any holiday-related stress.

20/12/2024

🎄Mutts 'n' Mischief Festive holiday tip #20🎄

🐕‍🦺Holiday hiccups: Managing Seasonal Behavioural Setbacks - Simple Strategies to Keep Your Dog on Track During the Festive Season

🐾 Holidays can often disrupt your dog’s training, routines, and behavior, especially if they are exposed to too many stressors. Whether it’s a temporary lapse in their manners due to overstimulation or a regression in their progress with certain behaviors, addressing any setbacks early can prevent long-term issues. Recognizing when your dog is struggling and taking proactive steps to restore their behavior is crucial for maintaining a strong, positive relationship with your dog.

🐕‍🦺 Key Considerations for Addressing Behavioral Setbacks
Identifying Behavioral Changes

Risk: Dogs that are exposed to overstimulation or stress during the holidays may display behavior changes, such as increased barking, accidents in the house, or avoidance behaviors.

Prevention Tips: Monitor your dog closely during and after the holiday season. Look for signs of behavioral regression, such as accidents inside the house, increased aggression, or a lack of interest in activities they normally enjoy.
If you notice any setbacks, be patient with your dog. Remember that behavior changes due to stress or anxiety can be temporary and can improve with consistent work.

Returning to Basic Training

Risk: Behavioral setbacks can sometimes be a result of a temporary loss of focus or consistency in training.

Prevention Tips: Go back to the basics by reinforcing your dog’s basic commands and manners. Even if they’re well-trained, a refresher can help regain control and re-establish boundaries.
Break down training into smaller, manageable steps. This makes it easier for your dog to re-learn what’s expected of them.
Keep training sessions short, fun, and positive to avoid overwhelming your dog during their recovery period.

Addressing Anxiety-Related Behaviors

Risk: Anxiety from the holiday chaos can lead to setbacks in behavior, especially for dogs that are already prone to fear or separation anxiety.

Prevention Tips: If anxiety is a concern, focus on positive reinforcement techniques to help your dog overcome fearful or anxious behaviors. Use treats and praise to reward calm behavior and gradually expose your dog to the stimuli that caused anxiety in a controlled way.
If your dog’s anxiety seems more severe or persistent, consider consulting a dog behaviorist or your veterinarian for additional support, such as behavioral therapy or medication.

Consistency is Key

Risk: Inconsistent routines or lack of supervision can contribute to setbacks in behavior.

Prevention Tips: Maintain a consistent routine for your dog, even during busy times. If possible, try to continue your dog’s regular feeding, walking, and bedtime schedules to help them feel secure.
Provide clear boundaries and structure during the holidays. Make sure guests and family members are aware of your dog’s training needs and follow the same rules regarding interactions with your dog.

Seek Professional Help if Needed

Risk: In some cases, behavioral issues may be too much for a dog guardian to address alone.

Prevention Tips: If you find that your dog’s behavioral setbacks persist beyond the holiday season or become more severe, it may be time to seek professional help from a dog trainer or behaviorist.

🐾 A professional can help assess your dog’s needs, offer personalized strategies for addressing setbacks, and provide additional support for any underlying behavioral issues.

Signs of Behavioral Setbacks
Unexplained accidents inside the house.
Increased barking, whining, or vocalizations.
Aggressive behaviors such as growling, snapping, or biting.
Withdrawal or avoidance of people, other pets, or activities.
Destructive behavior, such as chewing or digging.

If you notice any of these signs, address them early by reinforcing training, offering additional reassurance, and seeking professional help.

🐕‍🦺 Action Steps for Guardians

Monitor your dog for any signs of behavioral setbacks and take note of any unusual behavior.
Reinforce basic training and gradually reintroduce structure into your dog’s routine.
Address any anxiety-related behaviors with positive reinforcement techniques and consider professional support if necessary.
Be consistent with your dog’s routine and training to avoid further setbacks.

14/12/2024

🎄Mutts 'n' Mischief Festive holiday tip #14🎄

Pawsitively Perfect Presents: Holiday Gift Guide for Dogs - Choosing Safe, Fun, and Tailored Gifts for Your Best Friend

🎁 Giving your dog a gift during the holidays is a wonderful way to show them love and appreciation, but it’s important to choose safe, appropriate presents. Some dog toys or treats can be hazardous if they’re too small, made from unsafe materials, or poorly constructed. By selecting thoughtful gifts tailored to your dog’s needs and preferences, you can ensure a joyful holiday without compromising their safety.

🐾 Key Considerations for Dog Gifts

Safe and Durable Toys

Risk: Toys that are poorly made or too small for your dog can pose a choking hazard or cause internal injury.

Prevention Tips: Choose toys that are the right size for your dog. For example, a toy that’s too small for a large breed could be easily swallowed, while a toy that’s too large for a small dog might be difficult to play with.

Opt for toys that are designed for your dog’s chewing habits. Aggressive chewers will need tougher, more durable toys, such as rubber or nylon, while gentle chewers can enjoy softer toys like plush ones.

Avoid toys with small parts that could be chewed off and swallowed. Check for any seams or parts that may break off.

Edible Treats and Chews

Risk: Certain treats or chews may be unhealthy or unsafe for dogs, especially if they’re too hard, contain harmful additives, or are inappropriate for your dog’s size or age.

Prevention Tips: Always choose treats that are formulated for dogs, and avoid human foods that can be toxic, like chocolate, grapes, or raisins.

When selecting chews, consider your dog’s chewing habits. For instance, some dogs may be prone to breaking teeth on hard bones, while others may have sensitive stomachs.
Check for any recalls on edible dog products before purchasing.

Comfort Items

Risk: Uncomfortable or poorly designed bedding, coats, or collars can lead to discomfort or injury.

Prevention Tips: If buying bedding, choose a high-quality, well-padded bed that provides proper support for your dog’s joints.
When selecting a coat or sweater, ensure it’s breathable, adjustable, and doesn’t restrict movement. Look for materials that will keep your dog warm but not too hot.

Always measure your dog for proper fit before buying items like collars, harnesses, or coats. Too tight can cause chafing, while too loose can cause slipping or discomfort.

Interactive Enrichment Toys

Risk: Some enrichment toys or puzzle games can be too difficult or frustrating, causing anxiety or stress.

Prevention Tips: Choose toys appropriate for your dog’s intelligence level and current training. For example, a toy that is too challenging may frustrate your dog, while one that is too easy won’t provide mental stimulation.

Rotate toys regularly to maintain interest and avoid overexcitement or frustration.

Monitor your dog’s interaction with enrichment toys to ensure they’re being used correctly and safely.

🎁 Signs a Gift Might Not Be Suitable

Your dog shows disinterest, frustration, or anxiety with the gift.

The gift is causing discomfort, like itching from a new collar or bed.

Your dog attempts to ingest or destroy the toy or treat.
If your dog is not enjoying the gift, consider returning it or exchanging it for something more suitable.

🐾 Action Steps for Guardians

Always supervise your dog with new toys or treats until you’re sure they’re safe to use independently.

Buy from reputable brands known for their commitment to safety and quality.

Keep an eye on your dog’s reaction to the gift, and make adjustments if necessary.

Give gifts that cater to your dog’s specific needs—whether it’s comfort, stimulation, or a bit of extra pampering!

11/12/2024

🎄Mutts 'n' Mischief Festive holiday tip #11🎄

Deck the Halls with Care: A Dog-Safe Holiday Guide - Protecting Your Pup from Festive Hazards, One Decoration at a Time

🎄Festive decorations bring joy to homes, but they also pose a variety of hazards to dogs. Sparkling ornaments, tinsel, and electrical cords can be irresistible to curious pups, leading to risks such as choking, gastrointestinal blockages, or electric shock. Taking precautions when decorating can prevent accidents and ensure your dog enjoys the festive season safely.

🐾 Key Risks and How to Address Them

Tinsel and Ribbons

Risk: Dogs may swallow tinsel or ribbons, which can cause life-threatening intestinal blockages.

Prevention Tips:

Avoid using tinsel or place it high up, out of your dog’s reach.
Opt for safer alternatives like fabric garlands or paper chains.

Glass Ornaments

Risk: Glass ornaments can shatter if knocked over, leading to cuts or ingestion of sharp fragments.

Prevention Tips:

Use shatterproof ornaments or secure fragile ones higher on the tree.

Attach ornaments tightly to branches using hooks or ribbon.

Fairy Lights and Electrical Cords

Risk: Chewing on electrical cords can cause burns, electrocution, or fires.

Prevention Tips:

Use cord protectors or hide wires behind furniture.
Opt for battery-operated fairy lights when possible.
Unplug lights when not in use, and never leave them on unsupervised.

Edible Decorations

Risk: Decorations like popcorn garlands, candy canes, or gingerbread ornaments can tempt dogs, leading to choking, ingestion of toxic ingredients, or destructive behavior.

Prevention Tips:

Avoid edible decorations entirely, or use faux alternatives.
Ensure any human food-based decorations are placed well out of reach.

Yule/ Christmas Trees

Risk: Dogs may knock over trees, chew on branches, or drink water from the tree stand, which can contain harmful preservatives or bacteria.

Prevention Tips:

Anchor the tree to the wall or ceiling to prevent tipping.
Block access with a baby gate or a decorative fence.
Use a covered tree stand to prevent access to the water.

Signs of Danger to Watch For -

If your dog interacts with unsafe decorations, look for:
Vomiting, diarrhea, or signs of abdominal discomfort (could indicate ingestion of foreign objects).

Pawing at the mouth or choking sounds (signs of airway obstruction).

Burns or singed fur (possible interaction with lights or candles).

Decrease in appetite.

In any of these cases, contact your veterinarian immediately.

🎄 Action Steps for Guardians

Supervise your dog around decorations, especially when first introducing them.

Create a “safe zone” for your dog away from heavily decorated areas.

Help your dog to be safe around decorations using positive reinforcement techniques.

10/12/2024

🎄Mutts 'n' Mischief Festive holiday tip #10 🎄

Home for the Howl-idays - Stress-Free Travel Tips to Keep Your Dog Safe and Happy This Holiday Season

🚘 Traveling with dogs during the holidays can be stressful for both guardians and dogs, of course you want to see family and friends and perhaps even stay for a week or two, but what we have to remember is how we can make this time less stressful for our dogs. From long car journeys to staying in unfamiliar places, there are numerous potential risks, including accidents, anxiety, and exposure to unfamiliar hazards. By planning ahead and creating a safe, comfortable travel experience, guardians can minimize stress and keep their dogs secure.

🏡 Key Considerations for Safe Holiday Travel

Car Travel Safety

Risk: Unrestrained dogs can distract the driver, cause accidents, or be injured in a sudden stop or collision.

Prevention Tips:
Use a crash-tested harness, crate, or dog car seat to secure your dog in the vehicle.

Never allow your dog to sit on your lap or stick their head out of the window.

Plan regular breaks (every 2-3 hours or more frequent dependent on age) for bathroom needs, hydration, and stretching.

Preventing Motion Sickness

Risk: Some dogs experience nausea or vomiting during car rides, making travel unpleasant.

Prevention Tips:
Avoid feeding your dog a large meal within 2-3 hours of travel.

Try natural remedies like ginger or consult your vet for anti-nausea medication if needed.

Gradually acclimate your dog to car travel by taking short trips before the holiday.

Packing Essentials

Risk: Forgetting important items can lead to stress or health risks during the journey.

Checklist of Essentials:
A well-fitted collar with ID tags and up-to-date microchip information.

Lead, harness, and p**p bags.

Enough food and water for the journey, plus bowls.

Medications, if required.

Comfort items such as a favorite blanket, toy, or bed.

A first-aid kit for dogs, including bandages, antiseptic wipes, and a digital thermometer.

Staying in Pet-Friendly Accommodation

Risk: Unfamiliar environments can cause stress or prompt dogs to engage in undesirable behaviors like barking or chewing.

Prevention Tips:
Research and book pet-friendly accommodations in advance.
Bring familiar items (e.g., their bed or blanket) to create a sense of security.

Use a portable crate or playpen if your dog is crate-trained, as this can provide a safe space.

Supervise your dog to prevent them from chewing furniture or damaging the property.

Holiday Travel by Plane

Risk: Air travel can be stressful and potentially harmful, especially for brachycephalic breeds (e.g., Bulldogs, Pugs).

Prevention Tips:
Book direct flights to minimize travel time.
Use an airline-approved carrier for smaller dogs flying in the cabin.

Ensure your dog is healthy enough for air travel by consulting your vet beforehand.

Identification and Safety Precautions

Risk: Dogs can become lost in unfamiliar environments.
Prevention Tips:
Use a GPS tracker on your dog’s collar during the trip.

Carry a recent photo of your dog in case you need to search for them.

Keep your dog on a lead at all times in new or busy environments and especially in the countryside!

🚘 Signs of Travel-Related Stress in Dogs

Panting, pacing, or whining.

Excessive drooling or lip licking.

Attempts of escape or trying to sit on driver/ front passengers lap

🏡 Action steps for guardians:

Ensure your dog is acclimatised to the car.
Take measures for motion sickness.
Check and double check your checklist.
Plan your journey for toilet breaks and to stretch their legs.

07/12/2024

🎄Mutts 'n' Mischief Festive holiday tip #7 🎄

Chilly Paws, Safe Walks - Winter Weather Tips to Keep Your Dog Protected and Happy Outdoors

Winter brings hazards like icy pavements, freezing temperatures, and toxic substances, all of which pose risks to dogs. Frostbite, hypothermia, and exposure to harmful chemicals like antifreeze can quickly turn a routine winter walk into an emergency. Understanding how to protect your dog during cold weather is vital for keeping them healthy and safe.

Key Risks and How to Address Them

Paw Protection

Risk: Ice, grit, and salt used on roads and pavements can irritate or burn paw pads. Additionally, dogs may ingest harmful substances while licking their paws.

Prevention Tips:

Use dog-safe paw balm or wax before walks to create a protective barrier.
Consider booties for sensitive dogs or those walking on heavily treated areas.
Wash your dog’s paws with warm water after walks to remove salt and chemicals.

Hypothermia

Risk: Prolonged exposure to cold can cause a dangerous drop in body temperature, especially for small, short-haired, or senior dogs.

Prevention Tips:
Limit outdoor time, especially in freezing conditions.
Use a well-fitted, insulated coat for dogs that are more susceptible to the cold.
Watch for signs of hypothermia, such as shivering, lethargy, or pale gums, and seek immediate veterinary care if suspected.

3. Antifreeze Poisoning

Risk: Antifreeze contains ethylene glycol, a sweet-tasting chemical that is highly toxic to dogs. Even a small amount can cause kidney failure.

Prevention Tips:
Store antifreeze securely and clean up spills immediately.
Consider using pet-safe antifreeze alternatives that are less toxic.
Monitor your dog during walks to prevent them from licking puddles near parked cars or garages.

4. Frostbite
Risk: Frostbite can affect extremities like the tail, ears, and paws, particularly in freezing weather.

Prevention Tips:
Avoid walking your dog during extreme cold or wind chills.
Dry your dog thoroughly after walks, paying special attention to wet fur or icy patches.
Use a hairdryer when possible on a low heat setting for dogs who tend to get balls and pockets of snow frozen to their fur. You can also try a gentle and warm bath to melt them and coconut oil can also be used to very gently remove from the fur with no pulling.

5. Thin Ice on Bodies of Water

Risk: Dogs may wander onto frozen ponds or lakes that cannot support their weight.

Prevention Tips:
Keep dogs on-lead in areas with frozen water.
Teach a reliable recall to prevent your dog from straying onto unsafe surfaces.

Action Steps for Guardians

Monitor weather conditions and adjust outdoor activities accordingly.
Create indoor enrichment activities (e.g., scent games or puzzle toys) for days when outdoor exercise isn’t safe.
Carry a towel and first-aid kit on winter walks for emergencies.

04/12/2024

We were shocked to find that the kettle in the lean to for you to make your teas and coffees has been stolen!!!!

Unfortunately this means that until we pop and get another, there are no hot drink facilities at the moment.

10/11/2024

Remembering ALL that sacrificed for our freedom

31/10/2024

Thank you Mutts & Mischief Holistic Dog Education and Behaviour Services for the helpful advice.

🔥 BONFIRE NIGHT: HELP YOUR ANIMAL FAMILY STAY CALM & SAFE 🔥

Fireworks can be stressful for our beloved animals!

🐾 Follow these simple, effective tips to create a calm, comforting environment for your animal family this Bonfire Night.🐾

🌟 Pro tip: If your animals had a hard time last year, don’t hesitate to chat with your vet about calming options! There’s absolutely no shame in seeking help.🌟

🌟 If you want a really good exercise day for your dog with mental stimulation to encourage deep sleep through the fireworks, hire your local dog field during the day! 🌟

Let’s make this a peaceful night for our furry friends. Share this to help other animal parents! 🐶🐱🐰💖

NK9 Dog Training & Behaviour, Bilsby Dog Field, Bilsby Canine Hydrotherapy