Tails-ology

03/09/2024

𝗣𝘂𝗿𝗰𝗵𝗮𝘀𝗲 𝗮 𝗦𝗻𝘂𝗳𝗳𝗹𝗲 𝗕𝗮𝗹𝗹 𝗼𝗿 𝗦𝗮𝘅𝗼𝗻 𝗠𝘂𝗹𝘁𝗶𝗰𝗼𝗺𝗯 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗴𝗲𝘁 𝗮 𝗙𝗥𝗘𝗘 𝗳𝘂𝗻 𝘀𝘁𝗶𝗰𝗸𝗲𝗿 𝘄𝗶𝘁𝗵 𝘆𝗼𝘂𝗿 𝗼𝗿𝗱𝗲𝗿 🐾✨

👉 𝗦𝗻𝘂𝗳𝗳𝗹𝗲 𝗕𝗮𝗹𝗹𝘀
Keep your furry friend entertained and mentally stimulated! Perfect for hiding treats and enriching playtime.

👉 𝗦𝗮𝘅𝗼𝗻 𝗠𝘂𝗹𝘁𝗶𝗰𝗼𝗺𝗯
Say goodbye to shedding with our easy-to-use, locally made grooming tool that pets actually love!

Don’t miss out on adding some extra joy to your pet’s day and a fun sticker for yourself. 💖

*Only the next 10 orders will receive this fun bonus, so don’t miss out!

𝗦𝗵𝗼𝗽 𝗡𝗼𝘄 🛍️ https://tails-ology.co.za

Discover Tails-ology, your go-to for pet enrichment products and resources. Enhance your bond with your pet today!

02/09/2024

‼️Position Statement on the Use of Punishment and Aversive Techniques and Tools in Canine Behaviour Training ‼️

In light of recent discussions on social media, we feel it is necessary to once again clarify our position and that of all our members at International Canine Behaviourists. As a community of professionals dedicated to the well-being of dogs, we unequivocally reject the use of punishment and aversive techniques in canine behaviour training. This includes, but is not limited to, the use of tools such as shock collars, prong collars, choke chains, and any methods that inflict pain, fear, or discomfort on dogs.

The overwhelming consensus among scientific professionals is that punishment-based methods are not only ineffective but also very damaging to the well-being of ALL dogs. Numerous studies have demonstrated that these techniques can cause significant psychological and physical harm to dogs, leading to increased aggression, anxiety, and other behavioural issues. Furthermore, they fail to address the root causes of undesirable behaviour and often exacerbate the problems they aim to correct. There is never an individual, breed or behaviour struggle that warrants punishment and moreover, we feel it is morally wrong and shows a lack of empathy and skill in training and behaviour modification.

We stand firmly behind the principles of positive reinforcement and force-free training methods, which are supported by the latest research in animal behaviour science. These approaches not only foster a strong, trusting bond between dogs and their handlers but also ensure that training is both effective and humane. We believe that all dogs deserve to be treated with respect and compassion, and that their well-being should always be the top priority in any training programme.

All members of International Canine Behaviourists adhere to a strict code of conduct, which you can read here. This code ensures that our practices are aligned with the highest ethical standards and that we are committed to promoting the welfare of dogs through evidence-based, force-free and fear-free training methods.

We urge all dog owners, trainers, and behaviourists to reject punitive methods and to embrace the wealth of positive, science-backed alternatives available. Together, we can create a world where every dog is trained with the kindness, understanding, and respect they deserve.

International Canine Behaviourists

22/08/2024

🛍️ 𝗖𝗵𝗼𝗶𝗰𝗲𝘀, 𝗖𝗵𝗼𝗶𝗰𝗲𝘀! We now have new payment gateways to make your shopping experience even easier! 💳✨

Choose from Yoco, Zapper, or EFT for your convenience. For shipping, we’ve got you covered with PUDO – select either locker to locker or locker to door! 🚚📦

𝗛𝗮𝗽𝗽𝘆 𝘀𝗵𝗼𝗽𝗽𝗶𝗻𝗴! 🐾💙
tails-ology.co.za

12/08/2024

🚨 𝗠𝗬 𝗗𝗢𝗚𝗦 𝗨𝗦𝗘𝗗 𝗧𝗢 𝗥𝗨𝗡 𝗔𝗧 𝗧𝗛𝗘 𝗦𝗜𝗚𝗛𝗧 𝗢𝗙 𝗔 𝗕𝗥𝗨𝗦𝗛... 𝗨𝗡𝗧𝗜𝗟 𝗪𝗘 𝗚𝗢𝗧 𝗧𝗛𝗜𝗦 𝗢𝗡𝗘! 🐶✨

I love spending quality time with my dogs, checking them over and brushing out those loose hairs. And trust me, with all the hair on my shiny black floor tiles and furniture, this comb is a game-changer! 😅

Not only is it super effective, but it’s also incredibly gentle. My pups actually enjoy their grooming sessions now – no more tugging or discomfort. 🐶💖

Plus, it’s locally made here in South Africa 🇿🇦, so you’re supporting local businesses with every purchase! 🛒

Check out Mandy’s review on this fantastic brush here 📹 https://youtu.be/orKJxlVlIeM?si=4jS2PDrQRkWblXbi and see why it's so great. It’s affordable and delivered right to you via PUDO – choose Locker to Locker or Locker to Door. 📦🚪

Don’t miss out – get yours today and make grooming a joy for both you and your furry friends! ✨🐕 https://tails-ology.co.za/product/the-saxon-multicomb/

07/08/2024

𝗡𝗘𝗪 𝗣𝗥𝗢𝗗𝗨𝗖𝗧 𝗔𝗟𝗘𝗥𝗧! 🚨

Introducing the Saxon Multicomb - the ultimate deshedding tool for your pets! ✨

🐾 Efficient deshedding with serrated metal and plastic grooves
🐾 Adjustable strap for a secure and comfortable grip
🐾 Versatile use for dogs, cats, horses, cows, and more
🐾 Waterproof and easy to clean
🐾 Use it on wet or dry fur

Keep your pets looking their best with the Saxon Multicomb! Available now 🛒 https://tails-ology.co.za/product/the-saxon-multicomb/

Discover the Saxon Multicomb, a versatile deshedding tool perfect for dogs, cats, horses, and more. Efficient and easy to clean.

02/08/2024

31/07/2024

𝟱 𝗥𝗲𝗮𝘀𝗼𝗻𝘀 𝗬𝗼𝘂𝗿 𝗗𝗼𝗴𝘀 𝗡𝗲𝗲𝗱 𝗮 𝗦𝗻𝘂𝗳𝗳𝗹𝗲 𝗕𝗮𝗹𝗹! 🎉🐾

1️⃣ Mental Stimulation: Snuffle Balls keep your dog’s brain busy and sharp by making them work for their treats. 🧠🍖

2️⃣ Stress Relief: Searching for treats in a Snuffle Ball can help reduce anxiety and provide a calming effect. 🧘‍♂️🐕

3️⃣ Physical Exercise: Keeps your dog active and moving, even indoors. Perfect for rainy days! 🌧️🏃‍♂️

4️⃣ Slow Feeding: Helps slow down fast eaters, promoting better digestion and preventing bloating. 🥣🐾

5️⃣ Fun & Enrichment: Provides endless fun and enrichment, preventing boredom and destructive behaviors. 🎉🦴

Ready to enrich your dog’s life? 🛒 https://tails-ology.co.za/product/enrichment-snuffle-ball/

Discover the joy of enrichment with our Enrichment Snuffle Ball, perfect for dogs, cats, and other treat-loving pets! It comes in two sizes, and is proudly handmade in South Africa. This interactive toy keeps your pet engaged and mentally stimulated. Hide small treats in the pockets and watch your f...

29/07/2024

𝗔𝗿𝗰𝗵𝗶𝗲 𝗶𝘀 𝗮𝗯𝗼𝘂𝘁 𝘁𝗼 𝗲𝗺𝗯𝗮𝗿𝗸 𝗼𝗻 𝗮 𝘀𝗻𝗶𝗳𝗳-𝘁𝗮𝘀𝘁𝗶𝗰 𝗮𝗱𝘃𝗲𝗻𝘁𝘂𝗿𝗲 𝘄𝗶𝘁𝗵 𝗵𝗶𝘀 𝗻𝗲𝘄 𝗦𝗻𝘂𝗳𝗳𝗹𝗲 𝗕𝗮𝗹𝗹! 🎾✨ Archie is a Beagle puppy, and Beagles have an incredible sense of smell... Our Snuffle Ball is perfect for keeping those noses busy and happy 🐾👃

We can't wait to see Archie enjoying his new toy, and we’re thrilled to help enrich the lives of more dogs 🧡

🚚 And remember, we offer 𝗙𝗥𝗘𝗘 𝘀𝗵𝗶𝗽𝗽𝗶𝗻𝗴 through PUDO! 🐾🎉

𝗚𝗲𝘁 𝗬𝗼𝘂𝗿𝘀 𝗛𝗲𝗿𝗲 🌐 https://tails-ology.co.za/product/enrichment-snuffle-ball/

22/07/2024

𝗜 𝗸𝗻𝗼𝘄 𝗷𝘂𝘀𝘁 𝘄𝗵𝗮𝘁 𝗶𝘁'𝘀 𝗹𝗶𝗸𝗲 𝘁𝗼 𝘄𝗼𝗿𝗸 𝗹𝗼𝗻𝗴 𝗵𝗼𝘂𝗿𝘀 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗯𝗲 𝗮𝗯𝘀𝗼𝗿𝗯𝗲𝗱 𝗶𝗻 𝘁𝗮𝘀𝗸𝘀 🤯, but it's crucial to keep our furry friends stimulated and enriched 🐶🐱

In my latest blog post, I share some creative and practical tips to ensure your pets are not only entertained but also thriving while you’re busy 🥰

👉 Read it here: https://tails-ology.co.za/how-to-keep-pets-entertained-when-working-long-hours/

𝗪𝗶𝗹𝗹 𝘆𝗼𝘂 𝗴𝗶𝘃𝗲 𝗼𝗻𝗲 𝗼𝗳 𝘁𝗵𝗲𝘀𝗲 𝗮 𝘁𝗿𝘆? 😁

18/07/2024

𝗚𝗲𝘁 𝟭𝟬% 𝗢𝗙𝗙 𝗼𝗻 𝗦𝗻𝘂𝗳𝗳𝗹𝗲 𝗕𝗮𝗹𝗹𝘀 𝘄𝗵𝗲𝗻 𝘆𝗼𝘂 𝗯𝘂𝘆 𝟮 & 𝗺𝗼𝗿𝗲! 🌟

Multi-pet households NEED these Snuffle Balls, and we’re giving you an irresistible 10% off when you buy more than one to ensure your furry friends are entertained and happy! 🐾

🐶 Keeps pets busy and mentally stimulated
🐶 Great for hiding treats and promoting natural foraging instincts

🛍️ 𝗙𝗥𝗘𝗘 𝘀𝗵𝗶𝗽𝗽𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝘃𝗶𝗮 𝗣𝘂𝗱𝗼!

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Available in 2 sizes:
Large: R320
Small: R180
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✨ 𝗛𝗮𝗻𝗱𝗺𝗮𝗱𝗲 𝘄𝗶𝘁𝗵 𝗹𝗼𝘃𝗲 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗱𝗲𝘀𝗶𝗴𝗻𝗲𝗱 𝘁𝗼 𝗯𝗿𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗷𝗼𝘆 𝘁𝗼 𝘆𝗼𝘂𝗿 𝗽𝗲𝘁𝘀!✨
*Coupon 'tails10' will be automatically applied at checkout when ordering 2 or more snuffle balls*🐕🐈

👉 Order now while stocks last 🔗 https://tails-ology.co.za/product/enrichment-snuffle-ball/

03/07/2024

"𝗔𝗯𝗼𝘂𝘁 𝗧𝗼 𝗔𝗱𝗼𝗽𝘁? 𝗜𝗻𝘁𝗲𝗿𝗮𝗰𝘁𝗶𝘃𝗲 𝗪𝗼𝗿𝗸𝗯𝗼𝗼𝗸" is your essential tool for choosing the perfect four-legged companion for adoption. 🐾

Presented by Mandy Barrett, renowned as "The Dog Guru," this interactive guide offers quizzes and insights to assist in your adoption journey. 📝

Dive into age, breed, temperament, and gender considerations to discover your ideal match. 🐶

Mandy's expertise, forged through years of compassionate rescue work and innovative training methods, ensures a fulfilling and successful adoption experience. 🌟

With her workbook in hand, embark on the rewarding journey of finding your furry soulmate. 🏡

Get yours here 🔗 https://tails-ology.co.za/product/about-to-adopt-interactive-workbook/

‼️NOTE:

Please note that this listing is for a digital product only; no physical product will be shipped. 🚫 You can download and print this workbook as many times as you want, however, this workbook is intended for personal use only and may not be resold, shared, or distributed without explicit permission from the author.

Embark on the journey of finding your perfect furry companion with the "About To Adopt? Interactive Workbook" by Mandy Barrett, "The Dog Guru." This digital download offers quizzes and insights on age, breed, temperament, and gender to help you choose your ideal pet. Note: This is a digital product;...

24/06/2024

Rekindling Tails-ology: 𝗘𝗻𝗿𝗶𝗰𝗵𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗘𝘃𝗲𝗿𝘆 𝗣𝗲𝘁'𝘀 𝗝𝗼𝘂𝗿𝗻𝗲𝘆
Brought to you, and powered by, Qonceptolio

I’m beyond excited to share some fantastic news with you all. Tails-ology, a passion project that has always been close to my heart, is back (FINALLY!) 🐾

𝗪𝗵𝗮𝘁 𝗧𝗮𝗶𝗹𝘀-𝗼𝗹𝗼𝗴𝘆 𝗪𝗮𝘀 🐶📸
For those who’ve been with us from the beginning, you know that Tails-ology started as a small endeavour to strengthen the bond between pets and their humans. We offered dog training classes, pet photography, and more. It was a beautiful journey filled with learning and growth. 🐕❤️

𝗢𝘂𝗿 𝗥𝗲𝘃𝗶𝘃𝗮𝗹 🌈✨
Life took me on a different path for a while, but the call to return to this passion was always there. Now, we’re rekindling Tails-ology with a fresh, exciting vision. Our mission remains the same: to enhance the lives of animals and their humans through quality products and valuable resources. 🛍️📚

𝗪𝗵𝗮𝘁’𝘀 𝗡𝗲𝘄 🚀🎉
We’re launching as a small, curated marketplace featuring select products designed to benefit your pet’s well-being. Our initial offering includes our flagship product, the Enrichment Snuffle Ball, handmade with love by Pricilla. This fantastic toy keeps pets mentally stimulated and entertained, promoting an enriched, happier lifestyle. 🧶🐾

We’re also excited to feature e-books by Mandy Barrett (The Dog Guru), providing insights and tips on pet care, behaviour, and training. These resources are perfect for pet owners looking to deepen their understanding and strengthen their relationship with their pets. 📖🐕‍🦺

𝗙𝘂𝘁𝘂𝗿𝗲 𝗣𝗹𝗮𝗻𝘀 🌟📈
While we’re starting small, we have big dreams. We plan to continuously add and suggest unique items that promote mental and physical enrichment for your beloved pets. And yes, we are open to collaborations with other passionate creators who share our vision. 🤝🐾

𝗦𝘁𝗮𝘆 𝗖𝗼𝗻𝗻𝗲𝗰𝘁𝗲𝗱 🌐📲
I invite you all to check out the new Tails-ology website and see what we’re up to. Follow us on our journey as we bring new products, share valuable insights, and work towards making a positive impact on the lives of animals and their humans. 🌟🐾

🔗 https://tails-ology.co.za

𝗧𝗵𝗮𝗻𝗸 𝘆𝗼𝘂 𝗳𝗼𝗿 𝗯𝗲𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗮 𝗽𝗮𝗿𝘁 𝗼𝗳 𝘁𝗵𝗶𝘀 𝗮𝗱𝘃𝗲𝗻𝘁𝘂𝗿𝗲. 🐾❤️

Warm regards,
Taylar

31/01/2024

28th February is World Spay Day and to celebrate this very important cause, we have our first sterilisation special for the year!

Sterilisations are not just to prevent unwanted pregnancies, it is also has health benefits.

For female dogs, it reduces or eliminate the risk for mammary tumors, ovarian cancer and uterine cancer.
And for males, it eliminate or reduces the risk of prostate disease and testicular cancer.

Please feel free to contact us during out office hours of 08:30 - 15:00 weekdays or on Whatsapp 0659357238.

Please note that we do sometimes experience high call volumes and Whatsapp messages, we will get back to you as soon as we can if we missed your call or message.

03/11/2023

Dogs behave the way they do for many reasons. They do NOT do things deliberately to be stubborn or ‘naughty’, nor do they aim to assert control. Outdated mythologies and training methods have detrimental effects on well-being and strain the relationship between a dog and their caregiver.

🧬A dog's breed and genetic makeup can play a significant role in determining certain behavioural traits. Dogs have genetic predispositions and breed-specific tendencies that contribute to their behaviour.
Some breeds are predisposed to specific behaviours, such as herding, hunting, or guarding.

The environment in which a dog is raised and lives can profoundly impact their behaviour. Early socialisation, which involves exposing a puppy to a wide range of people, animals, and environments during their critical developmental period, is crucial for building confidence and shaping a dog's social behaviour to reduce fear or aggression.

Overstimulation can cause all kinds of unwanted behaviours as it overwhelms their senses and can lead to hyperactivity or erratic responses. For example, if a dog is exposed to loud noises, multiple people, and various stimuli all at once, or on a daily basis, they might exhibit excessive excitable behaviour, poor impulse control, become agitated and exhibit behaviours like jumping, barking, or pulling on the leash, as their senses are overwhelmed by the excessive input.

Previous experiences and learning consequences can influence a dog's behaviour. Traumatic experiences, in particular, can lead to fear, anxiety, or aggression.

How a dog is trained and educated by their caregiver or handler can significantly affect their behaviour. Consistent, positive reinforcement-based training can lead to desired behaviours, while harsh or inconsistent methods can result in confusion or fear.

A dog's health, including their physical and mental well-being, can influence their behaviour. Illness, pain, or discomfort can lead to changes in behaviour.

A dog's emotional state, including fear, anxiety, and excitement, can affect their behaviour. For example, a fearful dog may display unpredictable defensive reactive behaviours or might avoid any encounters and run away trying to hide. While a confident dog may exhibit playfulness and a relaxed demeanour.

A dog can become frustrated and destructive if their mental and physical needs are not met. This dog, full of pent-up energy and boredom, may become frustrated and exhibit poor impulse control. In their frustration, they might resort to destructive behaviours, such as chewing furniture, digging up the garden, or incessant barking. This destructive behaviour is often an expression of their frustration and an attempt to alleviate their built-up energy and mental stress.

The type of diet a dog receives can significantly influence their behaviour, with high-quality nutrition promoting better energy levels, mood, and overall well-being, while poor diet choices can lead to issues like irritability, hyperactivity, or digestive problems.

As dogs age, they may experience canine cognitive decline, which can manifest as changes in memory, learning, and behaviour. This condition can lead to increased confusion, disorientation, and altered social interactions in older dogs.

It is really important to understand that each dog is unique, and their behaviour can vary widely, even within the same breed. Dogs use body language, vocalizations, and other forms of communication to express their needs, emotions, and intentions. Understanding a dog's communication cues is essential for interpreting their behaviour.

18/10/2023

Click on original post to enter ❤️🐶

🐾 𝗚𝗶𝘃𝗲𝗮𝘄𝗮𝘆 𝗔𝗹𝗲𝗿𝘁! 🐾

One Lucky Rescue Pup Can Win a Free Course!

Have you recently welcomed an adopted pup into your life? We're thrilled to give back to our rescue community by offering a free course to one lucky adopted puppy and one lucky adopted teen dog!

𝗛𝗼𝘄 𝘁𝗼 𝗤𝘂𝗮𝗹𝗶𝗳𝘆:

Post a comment on THIS POST with the following details:

🔹 A photo of your rescue pup
🔹Your name
🔹 Your pup's name
🔹 The name of the rescue organisation from which you adopted your furry friend

Winners will be randomly drawn Thursday at 8 PM. You have only a few hours to enter! Good luck 🤞🏼

🏆 Competition Details:

-This competition is open to any rescued puppy or teen dog adopted from a local rescue organisation.
-Winners must be available to attend the course, located in Waterfall, over four weeks.
-Winners must be willing to be photographed and filmed during the course.
-The rescue organisation from which your puppy was adopted may be featured in our film/course.

Don't miss this opportunity to make your rescue pup a star and enhance your bond through our fantastic course!🐶❤️

16/10/2023

And on my pillow... my side of the bed, staring at my plate....

11/10/2023

WE’RE BACK!!!!🥰

🐾 𝗣𝘂𝗽𝗽𝘆 𝗛𝗮𝗿𝗺𝗼𝗻𝘆: 𝗙𝗼𝗿𝗰𝗲-𝗙𝗿𝗲𝗲 𝗙𝗼𝘂𝗻𝗱𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝗣𝗿𝗼𝗴𝗿𝗮𝗺 🐾

Are you ready to embark on a training journey that celebrates the unique bond between you and your furry friend? 🐶🤗

🗓️ 21 Oct 2023 - 18 Nov 2023 (4 Weeks, Every Saturday)
📍 Waterfall, KZN
💵 R650

We believe in a training approach that's as unique as your dog, one that's centered around positive reinforcement and building a lifelong bond based on trust, respect, and love.

🌟 𝗪𝗵𝗮𝘁 𝗦𝗲𝘁𝘀 𝗨𝘀 𝗔𝗽𝗮𝗿𝘁? 🌟

🐕 No Pack Theory: We're here to debunk outdated pack theory ideas. Instead, we focus on modern, evidence-based methods that rely on positive reinforcement, clear communication, and mutual understanding.

🤗 Bond-Centric Training: Our classes are designed not just to teach your dog commands but to strengthen the connection between you and your furry companion. We're all about nurturing the bond that makes your relationship truly special.

🐾 Force-Free Approach: You won't find any force, fear, or intimidation here. Our methods are gentle, effective, and rooted in the latest research on canine behaviour and psychology.

🏡 Small Classes and Home-Based: We believe that quality training involves personalised attention. That's why our classes are intentionally kept small and are conducted in a comfortable, home-based environment. This setting allows for individualised guidance and ensures that each participant and their furry friend receives the attention they deserve.

🌈 Positive Atmosphere: Expect a supportive and positive class atmosphere where we celebrate each small achievement along your training journey.

📅 Course Offerings: We're thrilled to initially offer two exciting courses:

➡️ A Paw-sitive Start (Puppy Class)
🐶 Up to 6 months
⏰ 8.30-9.20am

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➡️ Oops, I missed Puppy Class (Late start Foundation Class)
🐶 6 Months +
⏰ 9.30am-10.20am

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Each course is thoughtfully crafted to provide you and your dog with the knowledge and skills you need for a harmonious and fulfilling life together.

🌟 𝗠𝗲𝗲𝘁 𝗬𝗼𝘂𝗿 𝗞𝗻𝗼𝘄𝗹𝗲𝗱𝗴𝗲𝗮𝗯𝗹𝗲 𝗜𝗻𝘀𝘁𝗿𝘂𝗰𝘁𝗼𝗿𝘀: 🌟

👩‍🏫 Mandy Barrett: With over 25 years of practical experience, Mandy Barrett is not just a trainer; she's a nutrition advisor and an advanced Ethologist. She has a rich background in training and has a profound understanding of dogs. Mandy has also worked with many rescue dogs with various behavioural requirements.

🐕 Taylar Callaway: Taylar has completed a Dog Behavior Course in Ethology and Dog Training Instructors Courses. With almost a decade of experience in training, fostering and rescue, Taylar has successfully nurtured and adopted four dogs with diverse behavioural requirements.

Join us in our mission to create happy and well-behaved dogs while strengthening the incredible bond between dogs and their humans. 🐾❤️

Space will be limited! Classes will only be held periodically, so don't miss your chance for this unique training opportunity!

💬 Questions? WhatsApp Mandy:
https://wa.me/27843972550

📃WhatsApp Taylar to Enrol:
https://wa.me/27817285317

01/10/2023

Unlike puppies (who can often develop littermate syndrome), it is recommended & encouraged to adopt kittens in pairs. Besides all the logical reasons to have two kittens, it’s far more entertaining and you get the added benefit of saving TWO lives!!

08/09/2023

Agreed 😍❤️

06/09/2023

🤣

31/08/2023

A bit of serious one, but so true. We don't always realise how much our dogs do for us. How sometimes they can keep us going. Many studies show that pets can have a life changing effect on our emotions, sometimes life saving.

05/08/2023

Love this 💯

09/07/2023

Ladybug Art

08/07/2023

This is so me 🤣

15/06/2023

AUTISTIC SPECTRUM DISORDER IN DOGS

Researchers have been exploring the possibility that Autism exists in dogs since the 1960’s. A study was released in 2011, where similarities were found between repetitive tail-chasing behaviours in bull terriers and ASD in humans, but they are yet to produce a definitive conclusion.

You can read about the study here:

https://www.researchgate.net/publication/50938423_Characteristics_of_compulsive_tail_chasing_and_associated_risk_factors_in_Bull_Terriers

From the study:

“Although tail chasing in dogs is commonly de-scribed as a compulsive disorder or partial seizure dis-order, findings of the present study lead to another possibility. Males had a slight (8%) but significantly greater risk for developing tail chasing than females. Furthermore, tail chasing in Bull Terriers is closely associated with episodic aggression and trance-like behavior. In terms of the cluster of clinical signs and manifestations of tail chasing, it is speculated that this syndrome in Bull Terriers may have features in common with autism in humans. Autism is also more common in males, is associated with explosive aggression, trance-like staring, and involves repetitive movements and self-injurious behavior. In addition, autism is characterized by autonomy, impaired social interactions, and obsession with objects. Many owners of Bull Terriers with tail-chasing behavior describe their dogs as asocial, somewhat withdrawn, and abnormally preoccupied with objects, such as balls or sticks.”

Despite a lack of definitive evidence from the research carried out over the years, it is now widely acknowledged that Autism may be present in dogs, although canines do not share all of the symptoms which occur in humans. The canine condition which presents with similar clinical signs as ASD is known as Canine Dysfunctional Behaviour, and differs to ASD in that there is no spectrum. It is difficult to diagnose, so vets must rely on observation and analysis of behaviour, noting compulsive tendencies, repetitive behaviours, and impairments in social skills, as well as comparing what is considered normal and abnormal behaviours. In order to diagnose, other medical and behavioural conditions need to be ruled out first, as there are many which present with similar symptoms, such as anxiety, neurological disease, and hypothyroidism. There is no test specifically for it, although a diagnosis is often based on behavioural characteristics.

Some behaviours which might manifest in Canine Dysfunctional Behaviour include:

*Repetitive behaviours, such as tail-chasing, or circling
*Distress from having their routine interrupted
*Difficulty in adapting to new situations or environments
*Hypersensitivity to sensations such as light and touch
*Anxious, fearful or aggressive behaviours when interacting

Once Canine Dysfunctional Behaviour is diagnosed, there are a number of ways to treat it; for example, prescribing medications like Prozac, as well as putting management in place to minimise stress, and tailoring exercise to provide support.

Being able to recognise and understand canine body language is a skill which is really beneficial, as it provides us with insight into how our dog might be feeling, and it can help us to identify when they are in pain or unwell. The more familiar we are with their more subtle communications, the better we can understand and help them. The research available on Canine Dysfunctional Behaviour is far from comprehensive, but in raising awareness that brain chemistry in dogs is highly complex, and differences in the way that the brain processes information do occur, we can foster greater empathy, understanding, and patience for our dogs who struggle, and do our utmost to meet their needs.

* * *

PLEASE NOTE: If you have ANY concerns at all about your dog’s health, behaviour, or well-being, always make a consultation with your vet your first port of call. When we observe a sudden change in behaviour or anything at all unusual, this always warrants a thorough veterinary examination in order to rule out any underlying pain, discomfort, or previously undetected health conditions. The importance of this is highlighted in the recent study carried out, entitled “Pain and Problem Behaviour in Cats and Dogs.” Doctor Daniel Mills et al. found that, of 100 recent referral cases of several authors, around a third of those involved some form of painful condition, although this figure is a rather conservative estimate; the actual figure is thought to be as much as eighty per cent! You can read about the study here:

https://www.mdpi.com/2076-2615/10/2/318

** Please do not under-estimate the impact of pain, discomfort, gastrointestinal issues, allergies, fear, anxiety, and many other conditions which impact behaviour! **

* * *

References

https://www.petmd.com/dog/behavior/can-dogs-have-autism

https://outwardhound.com/furtropolis/dogs/can-dogs-have-autism

https://www.greatpetcare.com/dog-behavior/can-dogs-be-autistic/ #:~:text=Other%20behaviors%20can%20include%20poor,can%20exist%2C%E2%80%9D%20says%20Parthasarathy.

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/21453176/

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5190146/

https://d1wqtxts1xzle7.cloudfront.net/47335954/Canine_Compulsive_Behavior_An_Overview_a20160718-10347-ihx1dq-libre.pdf?1468886672=&response-content-disposition=inline%3B+filename%3DCanine_compulsive_Behavior_An_overview_a.pdf&Expires=1686959639&Signature=XA8XHLiUN5IxfQBz7DoXdL4qwvSBGH4Hzw1S2sH4jH0Y9VIlG6LyEz7PyTDbLM-V6kx6qarlg6WM4280XTPtQvqzzpMKeJihKC0ESNNBy9JcKzY6w39pOofUm29W4jYgQ5Bmhjce53EzNisIXSDVufznWo9fr1T-gSMRVGB7pmyoV25q6rXmvRVZuPwIXUQPvciYROn3QB6zt5SoJKaVZIfgPVL4~~ohv8t51ps~ZLYIyQR7HT1Jpuv22WjPtmMlQW3sf8BTG3oe-bq7A2RJbz~D1nnOn5FwI8Gxg6BwebBVl8XTdFJoBxqGj-WeyB8jvBohUo-Yq8Qs~IjiWkZXnQ__&Key-Pair-Id=APKAJLOHF5GGSLRBV4ZA

https://vaccineimpact.com/2017/autism-symptoms-in-pets-rise-as-pet-vaccination-rates-rise/

https://www.psychologytoday.com/intl/blog/dog-days/201607/can-dogs-have-autism

https://www.vetinfo.com/dog-autism-symptoms.html

https://www.sciencealert.com/anxious-dogs-have-measurable-differences-in-their-brains-that-are-similar-to-ours?fbclid=IwAR069qxeN601TtbAwMppNAmXDA8Kx2LtG1IhIzJsFfbEYrSFoOMpqsTqdzs_aem_th_Af8tjIwM70Pu77VaibbOaMdWxieOxJwgLFCAM-dS-CWyTzftC5m7DQWgbRZOFbwgqDs



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www.trailiepawsforthought.com

29/05/2023

Hopefully you never have to experience an Emergency, but always better to be safe than sorry! Save the number if you’re in Upper Highway.

☎️ 031 765 3221
It's a good idea to put our practice number into your phone in case you ever have an emergency with a pet. We prefer if you could please call ahead of arrival. 🤗

27/05/2023

🫶🏼

23/05/2023

Clever! 🙌🏼

08/05/2023

Just look at this beautiful face!❤️