No walks? No worries! Maintaining wellbeing in dogs on restricted exercise

by Ryan, Sian; Zulch, Helen; Baumber, Peter

• ISBN13: 9781845846053
• ISBN10: 1845846052
• Format: Paperback
• Copyright: 2014-11-24
• Publisher: Hubble & Hattie

Summary

"He's going to need six weeks crate rest; just keep him quiet while he recovers." These words - which often form part of the treatment requirements for dogs undergoing surgery, or requiring long-term medical care - can strike fear and dread into a dog-owner's heart. Not a lot of advice is available regarding appropriate mental and emotional support for dogs whilst their usual exercise is limited, and owners are left to manage as best they can, which can be stressful for both owner and dog, and can lead to behaviour changes and problems. This unique book, written by professionals in their field, aims to help owners identify the individual needs of their dog, and, in addition, offer support in preparing their dog for a period of restricted exercise, when surgical interventions are planned. Ideas and tips for mental stimulation and emotional support - as well as alternatives to physical exercise and guidance on how to teach specific skills - are included. Beautiful, specially-taken photographs illustrate every chapter, and worksheets enable owners to chart the progress of their dog's care plan.

Author Biography

Sian Ryan is an MSc-qualified dog trainer whose aim is to maximize quality of life for all dogs. She contributes to national media as a dog training expert, and her previous book No Walks? No Worries! (2014) is an essential guide for owners with dogs on restricted activity. Sian is also training and behavior expert for BBC programs including Me and My Dog with Chris Packham. Sian owns and runs Developing Dogs in Cambridgeshire, and gives seminars and workshops across the country, developing interactions which enable dogs and owners to make the most of their unique relationship.

Helen Zulch, a vet who qualified in South Africa, worked in a number of areas of veterinary science before focusing on animal behaviour. She has consulted and lectured in the field for over 10 years and holds European Specialist status, moving to the University of Lincoln, UK, to continue this career. Her main interests and areas of research include prevention of behaviour problems through appropriate early life experiences, the application of scientific principles in animal training, interaction between health and behaviour, communication in animals, and olfaction in dogs. She has owned and trained dogs all her adult life. Helen is currently programme leader of the MSc in Clinical Animal Behaviour at the University of Lincoln.

Peter Baumber is a multi-skilled photographer with specific expertise and experience in the field of classic motorcycles, portraiture, dogs and cats. On commissioned projects he works closely with authors and editors to ensure that the images he creates best illustrate the subject matter.