We are absolutely delighted to have Pin Oaks as the sponsor who is helping us to take these courses throughout SA. They share the same passion for dogs as we do, and this shows in all their services and products which are beyond compare. Do have a look at their website and support them for supporting the dogs in the shelters, and helping to improve both their quality of life and make them more adoptable - your dogs will also benefit! www.pinoakskennels.co.za Thank You to Michael, Doreen and the Team!
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OUR RECOMMENDED
'MUST HAVE' LIST FOR ADOPTING A DOG OR A PUPPY |
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Exercise - Although are not going to be buying this at your local pet shop or on-line the important of daily walks cannot be overlooked and is something that is not only fun for the dog – it is essential. If we can appreciate that a dogs sense of smell is over 45 times stronger than ours which relates to over 200 million scent cells, we can start to understand just how much impact a daily walk of just 15 minutes (when you dont have time for a longer walk) can make while the dog sniffs to its hearts content. This impacts on the dog both physically and mentally and the end result will be a much happier and better behaved dog.
" MUST HAVE LIST "
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LOVE
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PATIENCE
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CONSISTENCY
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SENSE OF HUMOUR
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As there is such a large range of collars, leads and appropriate chew toys, we have put together a comprhensive list for you as to what we persoannly prefer as well as a link to an article on putting on a Collar & Lead on a pup or dog that is not used to one.
A huge thank you to Rogz, who donated some much needed leads to this initiative. thank you Rogz!
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Collars
There is such a large array of collars, harnesses and leads available that choosing and finding the right one for your dog is often overwhelming. We thought we would go into a bit more depth on this subject so that you have more knowledge at your finger tips when you do make your purchase. Your dog will definitely need a collar/harness and lead, and be aware – dogs do grow so keep an eye out on how tight the collar is becoming. We do not recommend that a dog is left with a collar on full time – rather that the dog gets used to wearing it and having it handled several times during the day and only when the dog is happy with wearing the collar, do you attach the lead. Although many people prefer the fitted Vest type Harness for the small breeds, it is always a good idea to have the small breeds get used to a standard collar in the event it may need to be used at some stage, especially if there has been any injury on the part of the body that the fitted harness covers. We have two favourite Collars the one being a material Collar which is idea for the small to medium breeds. For the bigger breeds (or for pullers) we prefer the Martingale Collar as in the picture. These were originally disigned for the Greyhound breed as they had such thin necks and really do help with the dog that does pull and as it clasps firmly on the neck, is a lot less likely to come off over the head. We did say that a dog should not have a collar on when at home, and this is expecially the case where the Martingale collar is concerned. The reason for this is that if fits looser on the neck when not being pulled and it could snag on something in the garden. Not all dogs take easily to having a collar put on, especially dogs that may have suffered abuse in the past, so we have an article here for you to read to find the easiest way to get a dog used to having a collar on and learning to walk on lead. The article is written about pups however exactly the same procedure applies if an adult dog. If the dog is worried about using a collar, then rather use a harness and if you are still having problems putting it on, do get hold of a behaviour consultant who can give you the help you require. Article on Introducing a Dog to a Collar and Lead Behaviour Consultant – www.animal-behaviour.org.za |
Small Collar - nice and light for the smaller breeds and easy to get off and on
Martingale Collar. Ideal for the medium to larger breeds or for dogs that pull
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Harnesses
There are many people that prefer a Harness to a Collar as they feel kinder to the dog. We are all in favour of Harnesses, however, some are better than others as with some dogs (espeically those prone to pulling or the large and giant breeds) a Harness can actually encourage a dog to pull more. What is the trick is to know what is the best Harness to use and our favourite is the picture in the middle where he dog is suited in a Step-In Harness and the second point of contact is the lead (Multi Purpose Utility Lead). Additionally it transfers pressure from dogs neck to its chest. For the small breeds we either recommend the two points of contact as above or the Step-in Harness. The Step-In Harness fastens higher up on the dogs back and therefore it is easier to keep the dog close to its owner which will make it a lot easier to prevent pulling on lead. One has to make sure that the Step-In Harness is fitted properly or else the dog may just squeeze itself out of it if ill fitting. Having two points of contact also prevents this happening. As we mentioned above the Vest Harnesses are very popular, however in our own experience of them, we find that many dogs tend to overheat in the hot weather. |
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Using one of the 1.8m Fixed Rogz Leads as a Balance Lead the dog is walking beautifully in balance which helps to prevent pulling
Using 2 points of contact with a Step In Harness and a Utility Lead with 2 clips helps to keep a dog in balance and dramatically reduces and prevents pulling
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Leads
We have two favourite leads and both of them are from Rogz. The first one is the Rogz Multi Purpose Utility lead which is much longer than a standard lead being 1.8m and has two clips. The clips allow one to change the length of the lead and the added bonus is that due to the two clips, the lead can be used as two points of contact. This means that one end can be attached to a Harness or Head Halter and the other end to the Collar. Using two points of contact such as this helps to keep the dogs body in balance and therefor a lot less likely to pull. Additionally, you can adjust this lead to different lengths giving your dog more freedom to walk when required. Our other favourite Rogz lead is the Fixed Lead which is also a bit longer at 1.8m as the one above. Althoug this does not have two points of contact, it is so easy to use to prevent pulling as it can be used as a Balance Lead and Super Balance lead. These also come in some great colours and designs. 
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Chew Toys
Although it is nice and varied for your dog to have different toys to play with, the one’s that really make a difference as they provide hours of entertainment and mental stimulation are any the Busy Buddy Range with the Squirrel Dudes being our favourite. These are not expensive as toys go and more than worth the investment.
Not only are these fun to chew on simply by freezing them they last longer and are wonderful in the warmer weather. They also supply something ‘legal’ to chew on when you are out of the home and you need to provide entertainment for the dog. For stuffing them, we find it better to snip off the small rubber prongs and for deas in stuffing the Busy Buddy Squirrel Dudes have a look at this link.
In addition to the Squirrel Dudes mentioned above, two above there are also a range of great chew toys from Busy Buddy which also have the facility of being able to put kibble etc inside them. Here are some samples below and all of these are really durable and are sized for the breeds. It really is a case that the more you have the happier your dog will be!
We are so very grateful to Pet Systems.co.za who have generously supplied Busy Buddy Squirrel Dudes for the shelter dogs in the FODS Shelter Initiative. Additionally, to help us to supply chew dogs for the 1000 plus dogs not yet part of the Shelter Initiative they have started the Toy Drive Initiative. The difference these make in providing entertainment and relieve boredom for the shelter dogs has to be seen to be believed - please help us to achieve this if you can, and don't forget your own dogs!
Although it is nice and varied for your dog to have different toys to play with, the one’s that really make a difference as they provide hours of entertainment and mental stimulation are any the Busy Buddy Range with the Squirrel Dudes being our favourite. These are not expensive as toys go and more than worth the investment.
Not only are these fun to chew on simply by freezing them they last longer and are wonderful in the warmer weather. They also supply something ‘legal’ to chew on when you are out of the home and you need to provide entertainment for the dog. For stuffing them, we find it better to snip off the small rubber prongs and for deas in stuffing the Busy Buddy Squirrel Dudes have a look at this link.
In addition to the Squirrel Dudes mentioned above, two above there are also a range of great chew toys from Busy Buddy which also have the facility of being able to put kibble etc inside them. Here are some samples below and all of these are really durable and are sized for the breeds. It really is a case that the more you have the happier your dog will be!
We are so very grateful to Pet Systems.co.za who have generously supplied Busy Buddy Squirrel Dudes for the shelter dogs in the FODS Shelter Initiative. Additionally, to help us to supply chew dogs for the 1000 plus dogs not yet part of the Shelter Initiative they have started the Toy Drive Initiative. The difference these make in providing entertainment and relieve boredom for the shelter dogs has to be seen to be believed - please help us to achieve this if you can, and don't forget your own dogs!
Busy Buddy Puppy Squirrel Dude. Perfect for stuffing.
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Busy Buddy® SQUIRREL DUDE - perfect for stuffing
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Busy Buddy® WAGGLE -
allows treats to be randomly dispensed as the toy is “wagged” and shaken. Can be stuffed with treats on both sides for extra entertainment
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Busy Buddy® JACK - SMALL | MEDIUM
Enjoy a new twist on a classic toy! The durable nylon and rubber Jack holds Busy Buddy® natural rawhide treat ring refills for longer lasting playtime. Watch your dog chew, bite, and twist the Jack to figure out how to get the delicious treats in the middle. Treat rings can be placed in multiple locations to increase the challenge over time.
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Busy Buddy® BARNACLE - with three different sized chambers that can be stuffed
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KIBBLE NIBBLE FEEDER BALL -
The Kibble Nibble™ appeals to a dog’s natural instincts by enticing him to actively engage in mealtimes. Two Treat Meters™ randomly dispense dry food and treats as the ball tumbles around.
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Busy Buddy® CHUCKLE -
The Chuckle is a funky noise-maker that's sure to perk up playtime! Either end of the Chuckle has inner-facing, soft, adjustable rubber prongs that move aside to allow the toy to be stuffed with kibble or treats.
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Busy Buddy® TWIST N TREAT -
The Twist ‘n Treat is the first and only 2-piece adjustable rubber treat dispensing toy. The rate of treat dispersal can be adjusted to suit the interest and ability of the dog
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Busy Buddy® TUG-A-JUG ML
provides a multi-sensory appeal to keep your dog engaged and motivated to play. Its unique design allows dogs to see, smell and hear the treats as they roll around in the jug.
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All the great chew toys featured here can be purchased on-line ; just click on the Pet Systems.co.za picture
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Busy Buddy® NOBBLY NUBBLY™ - XSMALL | SMALL | MEDIUM
The durable nylon and rubber Nobbly Nubbly™ provides multiple treat options for longer lasting playtime. Use with Busy Buddy® treat rings or fill the grooves with your dog’s favourite spreadable treat, such as peanut butter or cheese. Perfect for dogs who like to chew
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