Heartful Hound

24/12/2024

Wishing you and your families a very Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!
Thank you for all your support in 2024. See you all in 2025. With Love Heartful Hound

13/12/2024

Risks of Not Vaccinating Your Dog or Cat

If you're avoiding vaccinations due to financial concerns, consider the potential cost of treating your pet if they contract any of these preventable diseases. Veterinary bills for unvaccinated pets can quickly add up, and in some cases, these illnesses may even be fatal.

If you're struggling to afford vaccinations for your pet, the Amanzimtoti SPCA offers low-cost vaccination drives once a month. Many other SPCA branches also provide similar programs, making it easier to keep your pet protected. In addition, our Veterinary clinics may offer specials.

This post is not about placing blame but rather raising awareness. It's crucial to stay up to date with your pet’s vaccinations and deworming treatments. Treating diseases such as the ones listed below can be expensive and, in severe cases, may result in death:

1. Parvovirus: A highly contagious viral infection that primarily affects dogs, especially puppies. It causes severe gastrointestinal issues, including vomiting, diarrhea (often bloody), dehydration, and can be fatal if untreated. Parvovirus is transmitted through direct contact with infected f***s or contaminated environments.

2. Distemper: A viral disease that affects dogs and some wildlife species, caused by the canine distemper virus. It targets the respiratory, gastrointestinal, and nervous systems, leading to symptoms like coughing, fever, vomiting, diarrhea, seizures, and neurological problems. It is often fatal, particularly without prompt treatment.

3. Rabies: A fatal viral disease that affects the central nervous system of mammals, including humans. It is typically transmitted through the bite or saliva of an infected animal. Symptoms include fever, agitation, paralysis, confusion, and hydrophobia (fear of water). Rabies is almost always fatal once clinical symptoms appear, but it is preventable through vaccination.

4. Kennel Cough: A highly contagious respiratory infection in dogs, often caused by a combination of viruses and bacteria, such as Bordetella bronchiseptica and canine parainfluenza virus. Symptoms include a persistent dry cough, nasal discharge, and sometimes mild fever. While usually mild, it can lead to more serious complications in young or immunocompromised dogs.

5. Feline Viral Rhinotracheitis (Snuffles): A common upper respiratory infection in cats caused by the feline herpesvirus 1 (FHV-1). It leads to symptoms like sneezing, nasal discharge, eye infections, and fever. While not typically life-threatening, it can cause chronic respiratory issues and flare-ups throughout a cat's life.

6. Feline Calicivirus: A highly contagious viral infection in cats that can cause respiratory issues (such as sneezing and nasal discharge), mouth ulcers, and lameness. It can range from mild to severe, and in some cases, it can lead to pneumonia or systemic infections. Vaccination is available to prevent infection.

7. Feline Leukemia (FeLV): A viral disease that affects cats, caused by the feline leukemia virus. It weakens the immune system, making cats more susceptible to infections and certain cancers. Symptoms may include weight loss, lethargy, fever, and anemia. FeLV is spread through saliva, nasal secretions, and grooming. There is a vaccine available for prevention.

Deworming: Every 3 months
________________________________________
Vaccination Schedule Guidelines for Pets
Canine:
• 5-in-1 Vaccine: 3-4 doses, spaced 3 weeks apart, starting at 6 weeks of age
o (6 weeks, 9 weeks, 12 weeks, and a final dose at 16 weeks for MDA 10%)
• Leptospirosis: 2 doses, 3 weeks apart, starting at 8 weeks
o (9 weeks, 12 weeks)
• Rabies: 2 doses, at least 30 days apart but before 12 months of age
o (12 weeks, 30 days later)

Feline:
• 3-in-1 Vaccine: 3 doses, 3-4 weeks apart, starting at 8 weeks
o (8 weeks, 12 weeks, 16 weeks)
• Feline Leukemia Virus (FeLV): 2 doses, 3-4 weeks apart, starting at 8 weeks
o (8 weeks, 12 weeks)
• Rabies: 2 doses, at least 30 days apart but before 12 months of age
o (12 weeks, 30 days later)

Be sure to follow the recommended vaccination schedule to ensure your pet remains healthy and protected from preventable diseases.

08/12/2024

Some suggestions based on the previous post I made for dogs who are diggers, providing positive outlets and alternative enrichment options can help redirect their energy and prevent destructive digging.
Here are several suggestions to keep your dog engaged and satisfied:

1. Interactive Toys and Puzzles

• Treat-dispensing toys: Toys like Kongs, Buster Cubes, or Nina Ottosson puzzles can keep dogs mentally stimulated for extended periods. Fill them with treats or peanut butter (xylitol free, dog friendly peanut butter) to keep your dog engaged.

• Snuffle mats: These mats encourage dogs to sniff and search for hidden treats, mimicking natural foraging behavior.

• Interactive ball or puzzle feeders: These toys combine play with food, encouraging your dog to work for their meals, which can help redirect digging urges.

2. Digging Pits or Designated Digging Areas

• Create a Digging Zone: If your dog loves to dig, designate a specific area in your yard where digging is allowed, such as a sandbox or a dirt pit. You can bury toys or treats there to encourage digging in that spot and reward your dog for using it.

• Buried Toys: Hide toys or treats in the designated digging zone to entice your dog to dig in the right place.

3. Physical Exercise

• Daily Walks or Runs: Digging can sometimes be an outlet for excess energy, so regular physical exercise can help reduce this behavior.

• Agility Training: Set up a small agility course in your backyard or take your dog to an agility class. This mentally and physically stimulates your dog, offering an alternative to digging.

• Fetch: Playing fetch with a ball or frisbee provides both physical and mental stimulation.

4. Training and Learning New Tricks

• Obedience Training: Keeping your dog mentally engaged by learning new cues or tricks can reduce boredom. Make sure to use positive reinforcement.

• Targeting: Teach your dog to touch a specific target (like a stick or your hand), which helps focus their energy and attention.

• Nose Work: Dogs love to use their noses, so introducing scent-based activities like hiding treats around the house or yard can engage their brains and tires them out. If you go out and find a shell or a feather, bring in home for your dog to sniff. There are also a range of plants you can get which are pet friendly for the to sniff.

5. Chew Toys

• Durable Chew Toys: Some dogs dig when they are stressed or need to chew. Providing appropriate chew toys like antlers, nylabones, or durable rubber toys can help meet this need.

• Stuffed Kong: A classic Kong stuffed with your dog’s favorite treat or peanut butter can be a rewarding, long-lasting distraction.

6. Calming Products

• Calming Music or Diffusers: If digging is a sign of anxiety, calming music or pheromone diffusers (like Adaptil) can help alleviate stress.

• Interactive Calm Games: Dogs like the challenge of working for their food, so a calm puzzle with gentle challenges can provide a soothing outlet.

7. Supervised Outdoor Time

• Play with Other Dogs: If your dog enjoys socializing, setting up supervised playdates with other dogs can help burn off energy in a positive way.

• Rotating Toys: Keep a variety of outdoor toys and rotate them to prevent boredom and encourage exploration and play.

8. Mental Stimulation and Scent Games

• Hide and Seek: Hide toys, treats, or even yourself in different areas of the house or yard, encouraging your dog to find them. This provides mental stimulation and satisfies their desire to explore and "dig" in a controlled way.

• Puzzle Feeders: Use puzzle feeders or spread your dog's meals around different areas, so they have to "work" to find their food, similar to the way they'd forage or dig for sustenance.

9. Boredom Reduction and Environmental Enrichment

• Varied Experiences: Take your dog on different routes for walks, try new parks, or let them explore new environments to stimulate their senses and reduce restlessness.

• Desensitize to the Yard: If your dog digs in the yard, ensure they have a positive experience outside by being with them during outdoor activities like fetch, training, or lounging. This helps associate the space with fun activities rather than destructive behavior.

By offering a combination of physical, mental, and sensory outlets, you can reduce your dog's digging behavior and provide them with more positive, enriching alternatives.

03/12/2024

Understanding Why Dogs Dig: Behavior, Motivation, and Neurological Effects.

Digging is a common behavior among dogs, but it can stem from various causes, ranging from instinctive actions to more complex behavioral issues. Whether your dog is digging a hole in the yard or pawing at the carpet inside, understanding the reasons behind this behavior can help you better address it. Here's a closer look at why dogs dig, what happens in their brains when they do, and how Jaak Panksepp's emotional systems come into play.

Reasons Dogs Dig

1. Instinctive Hunting Behavior
Some dogs dig due to their natural hunting instincts. For example, they may be trying to catch small animals like moles. This type of digging is often accompanied by signs of excitement such as whining, barking, wagging their tail, and intense focus on the ground. It’s the dog’s instinct to dig in hopes of uncovering hidden prey.

2. Seeking a Cool Spot
Dogs, especially those with lower heat tolerance, may dig in search of a cooler spot to lie down. Digging can help them create a comfortable and cool place to rest during warmer months, providing relief from the heat.

3. Boredom and Attention-Seeking
When left alone for extended periods, dogs may dig out of boredom. It provides them with something to do and can be a way to pass the time. This type of digging is often linked with other attention-seeking behaviors like excessive barking or destructive chewing, especially if a dog is left alone frequently.

4. Resource Protection
Some dogs dig to bury their food, bones, or toys—resources they feel protective of. This behavior typically occurs when no other dogs are around, and the dog wants to ensure their prized possessions are kept safe. These holes might not always be obvious, as dogs often cover them up once they’ve hidden their resources.

5. Escape Behavior
In some cases, digging can be a dog’s attempt to escape the yard, particularly near fences or walls. This may be triggered by anxiety, the presence of a female dog in heat, or a desire to get away from a stressful situation. Dogs who dig to escape are often motivated by fear, separation anxiety, or territorial instincts.

The Neurological and Physiological Effects of Digging
Digging is not just a physical activity; it also has notable effects on a dog’s brain, influencing their mood, stress levels, and sense of well-being. Depending on the context of the digging, it can trigger various neurological and physiological responses.

1. Dopamine Release: A Rewarding Experience
When dogs dig, especially when the activity is enjoyable, their brain releases dopamine, a neurotransmitter associated with pleasure and reward. This “feel-good” chemical reinforces the digging behavior, making it more likely that the dog will continue digging in the future. In this way, digging becomes self-reinforcing for the dog.

2. Stress Relief: Reducing Anxiety
For some dogs, digging serves as a form of self-soothing. When a dog is anxious or stressed, digging can help alleviate these feelings. The physical act of digging can reduce cortisol (the stress hormone) levels, providing a sense of relaxation. In this way, digging becomes a coping mechanism that helps the dog manage their emotions.

3. Endorphin Activation: A Natural High
Digging can also trigger the release of endorphins, which are natural chemicals that improve mood and reduce pain. When a dog digs and enjoys the activity, they may experience a natural "high," contributing to a sense of well-being. This is especially true for dogs that dig out of playfulness or curiosity.

4. Sensory Stimulation: Engaging the Senses
Digging stimulates a dog’s senses. As they use their paws to dig, they engage their sense of touch. If they’re uncovering something in the ground, they may also be engaging their sense of smell and sight. This sensory stimulation helps activate the brain’s sensory processing areas, keeping the dog alert and mentally engaged.

5. Instinctual Behavior: Rooted in Survival
Digging is deeply ingrained in canine instincts. Digging serves practical purposes like creating a cool resting spot, burying food, or digging to find shelter. These are innatel instincts in domestic dogs, driving their digging behaviors. Neurologically, digging is tied to circuits in the brain related to comfort, territory, and survival.

6. Frustration and Agitation: A Response to Stress
If a dog is digging out of frustration—such as trying to access something they can’t reach—this behavior may increase stress levels. While digging may momentarily relieve some of this frustration, it often doesn’t provide long-term relief unless the underlying issue is addressed.

Jaak Panksepp’s Emotional Systems and Digging
Renowned neuroscientist Jaak Panksepp identified several core emotional systems in mammals, including SEEKING, FEAR, PLAY, GRIEF, and RAGE, which can all play a role in understanding a dog’s digging behavior. These systems are driven by specific brain circuits and neurotransmitters, influencing how a dog interacts with their environment. Here’s how these systems relate to digging:

1. SEEKING System
The SEEKING system is responsible for motivation, exploration, and curiosity. It drives animals to search for food, resources, or new experiences. When dogs dig in search of something like a buried object, a cooler spot, or prey, the SEEKING system is activated. This system encourages them to dig as they explore their environment and satisfy their natural curiosity.

2. FEAR System
The FEAR system is linked to anxiety and distress. If a dog digs because they are anxious, fearful, or trying to escape a stressful situation, this system is at play. Fear-driven digging could be a sign of separation anxiety, fear of loud noises, or fear of being left alone. This type of digging is often accompanied by other signs of stress, such as barking, pacing, or destructive behavior.

3. PLAY System
The PLAY system is activated during social interactions and activities that bring joy, such as playing with other dogs or engaging in fun behaviors like digging. For some dogs, digging is simply a playful activity. They might dig in excitement, enthusiasm, or as part of a game, especially when they are with their owners or other dogs. This type of digging is often associated with positive emotions and a relaxed, happy state.

4. GRIEF System
When a dog experiences loss or separation, their GRIEF system can be activated. While not a common cause of digging, some dogs may dig as a response to grief or sadness, especially when experiencing the absence of a companion or familiar person. This behavior could be a coping mechanism as they process their emotions.

5. RAGE System
The RAGE system is tied to feelings of frustration or anger. If a dog is digging out of frustration, for instance when they are unable to access something they want or when they are left alone for long periods, this system is engaged. This can lead to behaviors like digging or destructive chewing as the dog attempts to release pent-up frustration.

Digging can be neurologically linked to a variety of emotions and states in dogs, from pleasure and relief to frustration and anxiety. Jaak Panksepp’s emotional systems—SEEKING, FEAR, PLAY, GRIEF, and RAGE—offer valuable insight into the brain circuits driving this behavior. Whether your dog is engaging in this activity out of instinct, to find comfort, or as a response to boredom or stress, understanding the underlying emotional and neurological triggers can help you address the behavior and ensure your dog’s well-being. By recognizing the motivations behind their digging, you can provide better solutions to satisfy their needs and improve their emotional health.

Never punish your dog for digging! There are alternative ideas to implement that provides your dog with the pleasure of digging but does not uproot your garden. If your dog is digging due to anxiety or fear, punishing them for it will only worsen your dog's emotional state.

If you are uncertain and would like help, please reach out!
Heartful Hound

02/12/2024

We believe that small group sizes are key to providing the best possible learning experience for your puppy. By keeping our classes small, we can focus on individualized attention for each puppy, ensuring that every dog gets the support they need to thrive.
Here are just a few of the key benefits of our small group puppy school:

1. Personalized Attention
With fewer puppies in each class, our trainers can dedicate more time to each individual dog, addressing their specific needs, behaviors, and training goals. This allows us to adjust the pace and style of training to best support your puppy’s progress.

2. Positive Socialization
Smaller groups create a safer, less overwhelming environment for puppies to learn how to interact with other dogs. By gradually introducing them to various canine companions, your puppy will have the opportunity to develop essential social skills in a controlled, positive setting. This leads to better long-term relationships with other dogs and people. Not allowing out of control or inappropriate interactions. We socialize to various objects, people and places in a positive manner to build confidence.

3. Reduced Stress and Distractions
In smaller groups, there are fewer distractions, which means your puppy can focus better on their training and feel more comfortable in the classroom. This relaxed setting is particularly important for building confidence and reducing anxiety as your puppy learns new behaviors and social cues.

4. Stronger Bond with Trainer
A small group size allows our trainers to get to know both you and your puppy on a deeper level. This helps us tailor our guidance and techniques to your specific needs and strengthens the bond between you and your canine companion.

5. Quality Interaction with Other Puppies
Puppies in small groups get to engage in more meaningful, supervised interactions with one another. This is critical for developing healthy communication skills and learning appropriate behaviors, such as sharing, greeting, and play.

6. Better Learning Environment
With fewer puppies, there’s more room for each dog to practice the skills they need in a calm, supportive environment. This leads to better focus, more successful learning experiences, and faster progress.
At Heartful Hound, we know that the quality of the experience matters just as much as the training itself. By keeping our groups small, we ensure that your puppy receives the best possible start in life, learning in a setting that is safe, supportive, and engaging. This approach sets the foundation for a lifetime of positive behaviors, confident socialization, and a loving, trusting relationship between you and your canine companion.

Your pets' emotions and wellbeing are top priority to me.

30/11/2024

Welcome to Heartful Hound Behaviour and Training, where your puppy’s happiness and well-being are our top priorities. We believe in creating strong, loving bonds with your canine companion through positive reinforcement training that nurtures growth, confidence, and trust.
At Heartful Hound, we understand that each puppy is unique. That’s why we take a personalized approach to training, working at a pace that suits your dog’s emotional needs. We put kindness, compassion, and empathy at the heart of everything we do, ensuring your puppy feels safe and supported throughout their learning journey.
Our training goes beyond simple obedience. We focus on socialization, helping your puppy become comfortable in a variety of settings, around different people, and with various objects. This allows them to grow into well-rounded, confident, and happy dogs who thrive in any environment.
We pride ourselves on creating a positive, stress-free environment where your puppy can learn, grow, and build lasting positive associations. With Heartful Hound, you’re not just training a dog — you’re building a lifelong relationship based on understanding, trust, and love.
Choose Heartful Hound Behaviour and Training for a compassionate, thoughtful approach to your puppy’s development — because every puppy deserves to feel loved and understood

27/11/2024

Pet insurance can indeed be a lifesaver in many situations, especially when unexpected emergencies arise. Our pets are part of the family, and just like humans, they can face accidents, illnesses, or routine health needs that may require costly veterinary care. The cost of emergency procedures, surgeries, or even long-term treatments can quickly add up, leaving many pet owners in a tough spot financially. That's where pet insurance comes in handy.

With pet insurance, you can be prepared for those "what if" moments. It can significantly reduce the financial burden of emergency care, routine visits, or even specialty treatments, depending on the coverage you choose. Plus, having insurance gives you peace of mind knowing that your pet will receive the necessary care without you having to choose between your pet’s well-being and your budget.

However, just like any other type of insurance, it’s important to do your homework. Not all pet insurance providers are the same, and policies vary greatly in terms of coverage, costs, and exclusions. Some key factors to consider when comparing pet insurance options include:

Coverage: What’s covered in the policy? Does it include accidents, illnesses, and emergencies? Are there limits on how much is reimbursed per incident or year?

Premiums: What are the monthly or annual premiums? Can you afford the cost over time? Are there any discounts available (e.g., multi-pet discounts)?

Exclusions: Are there any conditions or treatments that are not covered by the policy? Pre-existing conditions are often excluded, but it’s important to read the fine print.

Reimbursement Rate: How much of the costs will the insurance cover? Typically, providers reimburse a percentage of the vet bills, so understanding the percentage is key.

Claims Process: How easy is it to file a claim? How quickly are claims processed, and how long do you need to wait for reimbursement?

While no one ever plans for an emergency, being prepared can make a huge difference in how quickly and effectively you can care for your pet in times of need. It's always better to plan ahead than to be caught off guard with hefty medical bills. Take the time to research and find a plan that works best for both your pet and your budget!
Some popular pet insurance providers include:
MediPet
Oneplan Pet Insurance
Rogz Pet Insurance
dotsure.co.za Pet Insurance

Send a message to learn more

05/11/2024

The "pretty" lights with the big bangs are NOT worth the hype when it can cause severe anxiety, fear, physical damage and even death.

Just choose compassion and empathy over the big scary bangs!

Guy Fawkes may be a historical event in the UK, but its relevance is lost on our shores. What's not lost is the trauma, fear, and harm caused by fireworks to our pets, wildlife, and people with sensory sensitivities.

Let's choose compassion over chaos. Skip the fireworks, spare the trauma!

20/09/2024

We have been experiencing some cold, windy and rainy weather around KZN and other parts.
Please make sure that your companion pets are warm, dry and safe.

16/09/2024

Why would you consider training your puppy, adolescent or adult dog?

Strengthening the bond between you and your canine companion. Spending time together in training sessions prompts increased understanding and trust, whilst strengthening your bond.

Improved behaviour, during training classes we keep a close eye on behaviour and if your canine is displaying ‘unwanted’ behaviours these can be addressed in training sessions and worked on to better help you and your canine cope.

Communication is enhanced by better understanding each other better.

Safety, by training your companion you reduce the chances of them engaging in dangerous behaviours which ensures their safety as well as others.

Socialization, training will help your companion in becoming more confident, comfortable and well-mannered around novel people, objects, places.

Mental stimulation, training helps your companions with cognitive enrichment engaging their brains through variety. Thus reducing boredom, preventing destructive behaviour and contributing to their overall wellness.

Our training classes are light and fun, we are not drill majors, we promote well-being both mentally and physically. We aim to open up positive communication and bonds between owners and their companions and do our best to ensure positive emotional wellbeing.

15/09/2024

Are you battling with your beloved pet's behaviour?

We will always put your pet's emotions first; our priority is for them to feel safe and teach them how best to cope. Whilst helping you as their guardian to understand why the "unwanted" behaviour is being displayed and how you can help them.

We use positive reinforcement methods and under NO circumstances use any form of punishment! Your pet's emotional wellbeing is of the utmost importance to us.