VillagePets

20/06/2025

It's going to be a beautiful day today but pets may not appreciate the heat quite as much.

Don’t leave your four-legged furry friends in your car, even if the car is parked in the shade or if the windows are open.

If it’s 22C outside, it can reach 47C in the car in just an hour.

03/06/2025

It's that time of year - Tick season! ⚠️
Make sure to check your pup after every woodland walk, meadow stroll or countryside wander. Ticks can cause Lyme disease, therefore its important to identify them and remove them properly.

If you need more advice on ticks, visit our website: https://ow.ly/q97h50W39pB

17/05/2025

The only Grade 1 listed dog kennel in the UK - seen at Ightham Mote in Kent.

Built in 1890 by Sir Thomas Colyer-Fergusson, it housed a St Bernard called Dido.

Photo: Robert Morris, National Trust Ightham Mote

06/05/2025

Why Dog Fields Aren’t Great for Reactive Dogs

Dog fields seem like the perfect solution — secure, off-lead freedom. But here’s the truth: they benefit owners more than dogs.

Reactive dogs need structure, not just space. Running wild in a field may burn energy, but it doesn’t build emotional control or focus. Even with good recall, the dog is often practising independence, not connection.

Progress comes from daily, consistent engagement: structured games, check-ins, and making you the most rewarding part of the session.

Let’s connect — what’s worked for your reactive dog? Message me; I’d love to share strategies!

28/04/2025

Difficult subject.
We often ignore very clear signals given.
We don't mean to, but sometimes our needs override taking a step back and assessing.
➡️Our insistence as a society on patting dogs we just meet
➡️Ignoring subtle signals from our own dogs
➡️Not respecting that a dog can consent to touch (just as we can).
➡️Teaching children to say "yes" to patting dogs they have just met and do not know.
➡️Patting dogs when they are resting/sleeping because they look "just so cute".
➡️Not respecting that they have the right to change their mind and that the patting and cuddling habits may have changed today...and that is OK !
➡️Completely ignoring the moving away, turning away and sometimes "wrestling" with a fidgety dog just to give them love...by patting.

In saying all this, this graphic is also very individual.
Some dogs will flatten their ears in preparation for a good pat session that they thoroughly enjoy.

Take a second look.
Adjust what you are doing if you have to.
It will only increase your bond...not diminish it.

This is handout is available through https://www.abcdogsnz.com/product-page/abc-dogs-patting-a-dog

21/04/2025

21/04/2025

Terminology Tuesday ~ Ladder of Canine Aggression

Understanding your dog’s body language is key to preventing bites before behaviors escalate!

The Canine Ladder of Aggression (created by Kendal Shepherd) shows how dogs signal discomfort long before they ever growl or bite.

Recognizing the early signs—like turning their head, yawning, or walking away—can help keep everyone safe and stress-free!

Stay tuned for tomorrow’s post on how pain can impact our dog’s behavior!

13/04/2025

13/03/2025

The Wellbeing and welfare of the dog is paramount at all times. If it’s not, then your method of training is not good.

My dogs understand from my body language and tone of voice what’s good and what’s not acceptable and I understand theirs. This includes play as it means I’m happy with their behaviour.

Treats are just extras like giving your child an ice cream for being good or if I’m really trying to reinforce a great behaviour

05/11/2024

🎆🐾 Calming Tips for Anxious Pets 🐾🎆

✨ Calming Acupressure Points ✨

Try gently holding these three acupressure points while providing a comforting presence for your pet:
1. Between the Eyes: This point can help alleviate anxiety.
2. Base of the Skull: Gently press just behind the ears to promote relaxation.
3. Chest Area: A light touch here can calm racing hearts.

I also recommend using a drop of diluted lavender oil (for DOGS ONLY) or a pet friendly wipe/spray like Pet Remedy to create a soothing environment.

🌈 Gentle Touch
You can also try moving your hand slowly down either side of your dog's spine, starting near the ears. This area is where the vagus nerve travels, and gentle pressure can be incredibly calming. Remember, the slower you go, the better!

💖 Positive Affirmations
This may sound a bit crazy but just talking in a soft reassuring voice can help.
If you're feeling anxious because of your pet's anxiety, focus on reassuring thoughts:
"You are safe. I am safe. I know you are anxious. So am I. Together we will breathe. We will be calm. We will get through this. This will pass."

👉 Important Reminder:
While these techniques can be helpful, I recognize that some pets may require medication for severe anxiety. Always consult your vet if you have concerns about your animal’s well-being.

Let’s work together to help our furry companions through the fireworks! 🎇❤️

04/11/2024

🎆🐾 Keeping Your Dog Calm During Fireworks This Bonfire Night! 🐾🎆

I know we’ve had fireworks for a few days, but as we gear up for the big day tomorrow, I want to share some emergency tips to help keep our furry friends calm while fireworks light up the sky.

As a former Puppy Development Officer with West Mids Police, I know how important it is to prepare our pups for different sights and sounds, to train them to be confident and resilient dogs.

🔥 Fireworks!

A few months ago, I discussed implementing a desensitisation program for dogs who are scared of fireworks. However, with Bonfire Night just around the corner, it’s too late for that approach. Instead, here are my top tips to manage your dog during this stressful time:

1. Create a Safe Space: Set up a quiet area in your home where your dog can retreat to when the noise starts. This could be behind a sofa or in a cozy corner. Remember, don’t coax them out—let them come to you when they’re ready.

2. Daylight Walks: Make sure to have a long walk or training with mental stimulation such as scent work your dog during daylight hours before the fireworks start. This will help them burn off some energy and reduce anxiety later.

3. Pre-Fireworks Feeding: Feed your dog before the festivities begin. Once they’re agitated, they may refuse to eat.

4. Close the Curtains: Block out the sight and sound of fireworks by closing all curtains and blinds.

5. Muffle the Noise: Turn up the TV or play some music to drown out the sounds of fireworks. Reggae music can be particularly soothing for dogs! (I’ve also used Through a dogs ear playlists on Spotify)

6. Stay Calm: Your demeanor matters! Act as if everything is normal. Overly comforting your dog can inadvertently reinforce their anxiety.

7. Garden Safety: If your dog needs to go outside, keep them on a leash to prevent any escape attempts. Never assume your garden is escape-proof.

8. Avoid Chastisement: Never scold your dPet Remedyng frightened. They can’t help how they feel!

9. Homeopathic Aids: Consider natural remedies like valerian or a Pet Remedy diffuser or spray to help soothe your pet.

10. Update ID Information: Ensure your dog’s ID tag and microchip details are current. This is crucial if they happen to escape in a panic.

Many dogs struggle with the noises and sights of fireworks, but we can do our best to help them through this ordeal. For future preparations, remember that a desensitisation program can be beneficial in time for next year!

Lastly, if you’re looking for a way to help your dog get used to low-frequency sounds, consider introducing them to Teiko Japanese drumming gradually. It’s a fantastic way to acclimate them to different sound vibrations.

Let’s make this Bonfire Night a little less daunting for our canine companions! ❤️🐶

03/11/2024

A bit last minute but some advice for owners worried about dogs and fireworks

🎆🐾 Help Your Dogs Stay Calm During Fireworks! 🐾🎆

Are your pets ready for Bonfire Night? The loud bangs and pops can be pretty scary for them! 💥

Animals have extremely sensitive hearing 🦻and these noises can be very distressing. Luckily, there are a few easy ways we can help keep them calm and relaxed. 🧡 Getting spooked from fireworks is one of the most common reasons dogs are reported missing.

🧨 Make sure their microchip details are up-to-date, just in case they run off.
🐶 Start preparing them before the event with calming activities like long lasting chews or lickable calm mats.
🪀 Create a quiet space with their favourite toys
🎵 Play some calming music to help drown out the loud bangs.

Using strategies to promote calmness and optimism will help give your dog the best chance to cope with the challenges of firework season. 💥🐶✨

For more top tips, dive into our blog 👀📖 7 Strategies for Surviving Fireworks Season With Your Dog

👉🏻https://absolute-dogs.com/blogs/gamechangers/7-strategies-for-surviving-fireworks-season-with-your-dog