In this week’s Pet Talk, Maneka talks about chicken language and pet shop/ breeder laws

Do chickens make a good family pets?

They make absolutely wonderful pets (if  you hand raise them and handle them gently). They are pretty low maintenance and are very intelligent. Curious, brave, timid, loud, bossy, friendly or standoffish, chickens have just as much personality as humans. From the way they walk, run, take dust baths, lay out, cackle and chase bugs. They are a constant source of laughter. They don’t defecate in the house or give you half eaten prey. If they kill an insect, they are going to eat it themselves but at least that is less feed you have to give them.

How do you know when a chicken is unhappy?

When chickens are feeling awful, in pain or sick, they are perfectly silent and motionless. A very sick and depressed chicken will sit for hours facing a corner of the coop or run. A chicken in pain will stand in one spot for hours with their tail pointing to the ground.

Can you potty train chickens?

Difficult but it has been done. You can keep chickens indoors, however.

Is there any chicken language?

They are very vocal and conversational. And if you pay attention, you can learn to understand and speak their language too. 

For example: 

Pleasure peep: A soft, irregular chirp that says “I’m here and all is well.”

Cluck: Short, low-pitched and repetitive sounds that says “Stay close.”

Crowing: No explanation needed. It says “I’m the boss here.”

Alarm cackle: An insistent repetitive cackle Kuh-kuh-kuh-kuh-KACK! It says, “I sense danger!” 

Other sounds that chickens produce include the “cackle” hens make after they have laid an egg. A broody or dominant hen can issue warning to others to stay away.  All chickens will squawk when they are disturbed or hurt: for instance, hens in battery farms sometimes moan all day in misery and from excessive stress.

Do chickens have teeth?

Chickens do have teeth (a tooth), but they are only temporary. When a chick hatches, they possess what is known as an egg tooth. It’s a single triangular piece of bone attached to the end of the beak, which provides assistance with pipping out of the egg, since their beaks are relatively soft in the first week or so. The egg falls off within two or three days, since it is no longer useful. Most reptiles and all birds have these egg tooth.

I am a vegan but I have pet hens that lay eggs.  What should I do with them?

Offer them to friends and family. That way they’re not eating eggs from battery hens, but eggs from hens kept lovingly as pets. Better than wasting them. No male, no chicks. Or even better. Cook them and give them to the street animals in your area.

Which is the best source of protein in a vegan diet?

Lentils, beans, soyabean are the best protein options in a vegan diet. The human body needs very little protein — about 8-10 gms a day. You can get that in any             vegetarian food: even potatoes.

Why is vegan diet considered healthy compared to non-vegetarian diet?

Several studies have reported that the vegan diet contains more fibre, antioxidants, potassium, magnesium and vitamins A, C and E. Vegan diet is full of essential nutrients. Non-vegetarian diet has an excess of fats, cholesterol and is full of diseases because of the way the animals are reared and killed. It is very easy to be vegan in a country which has 500 species of vegetables.

Why do pigeons bob their heads?

Pigeons aren’t actually bobbing their heads. Instead, they’re pushing them forward.

When researchers in a study reviewed slow-motion footage, they found that there were actually two main parts to a pigeon’s head movement, which the scientists called a “thrust” and a “hold” phase.

In the ‘thrust’ phase, the head is pushed forward, relative to the body by about 5 centimeters. This is followed by a ‘hold’ phase, during which the head is kept still in space, which means that it moves backwards relative to the forward-moving body. What we see as a “bob” is the head sliding smoothly forward and then waiting for the body to catch up. We perceive it as a bob because the motion unfolds so rapidly.

Head-thrusting helps pigeons to stabilise their view of the moving world around them. Keeping the head still in space during the ‘hold’ phases means that the image will not be blurred by motion.

In other words, a stationary head gives the bird a moment to visually process its surroundings while it waits for its moving body to catch up; it’s like hitting pause on the motion for a fraction of a second. This tactic is useful because it enables them to see potential food — and possibly, enemies.

If pigeons’ heads moved at the same pace as their bodies, they would have trouble keeping a stable image of the world on their retina.

Why can’t we see baby pigeons? Where do all the baby pigeons go?

Most baby songbirds are in the nest until they are fully feathered and as big as the adults.

However, to be fair, there are a few reasons for such infrequent sightings of baby rock pigeons in particular: Their nests tend to be out of view, on rooftops and other skyscraping venues such as bridges and the sides of high-rises; pigeons spend a longer time as nestlings than other birds; and pigeon babies grow up, at least appearance-wise, faster than other birds.

Whereas most songbirds spend two to three weeks in the nest, pigeons hang out for at least three weeks and up to six weeks in the comfort of the nest. By that time, the juvenile pigeons look more like adults than other birds when they leave the nest.

If you keep an eye out though, you may be able to spot these young ones: Look for feathers that aren’t completely molten, dark eyes (adults have red-orange eyes) and tapered primary feathers (the longest feathers on the bird’s wing).

Our Municipality head says that pigeons are responsible for spreading diseases like tuberculosis and cancer. Is this true?

It is complete nonsense. There have been thousands of studies done on this because, for some unknown reason, when Municipalities don’t want to solve real issues, they invent issues to frighten people. The sight of people feeding pigeons irritates bureaucrats and they are always making false and illiterate accusations. In no study anywhere in the world have pigeons been found to spread any disease at all. I have taken plastic hanging flowerpots which nurseries sell and hung them from my verandah ceilings. They are lined with newspaper. The pigeons have made homes in them and I love the sound of their cooing which is so relaxing.

How can illegal breeding of animals be put to a halt?

Refuse to entertain breeders who breed animals unethically. Report them on any social media site that you come across and let any animal welfare NGO know immediately about their activities. Click pictures for evidence and call the Police, file a case against the perpetrator; You can also approach the Court to file a case, if nothing else works out; The first step, however, is to be aware about illegal breeding and legal breeding.

What are some pet shop/ breeder laws that the common public must know?

It is be mandatory for all pet shop owners to register themselves with the State Animal Welfare Board of the respective State Governments/ Union Territories.

Such shops are registered only after inspection by the representatives of State Board, a veterinary practitioner and a representative of the Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals. The rules define space requirements for birds, cats, dogs, rabbits, guinea pigs, hamsters, rats and mice in the pet shops. It defines the basic amenities, power back-up, general care, veterinary care and other operational requirement for animals kept in pet shops.

The rules make it mandatory to maintain proper records of sale, purchase, death of animals in pet shops.

Every pet shop owner is required to submit a yearly report to the State Board regarding animals, sold,                       traded, bartered, brokered, given away, boarded or exhibited during previous year, or any other information asked for by the State Board.

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In this week’s Pet Talk, Maneka answers queries like do fish sleep? Do they make sounds? And more…

By Maneka Gandhi

What should we do if a snake bites an animal?

Tie a tourniquet 3-4 inches above the site of the bite. Give a small incision at the site with a clean blade and allow the wound to bleed. Call the Veterinarian immediately. If you think your pet has been bitten by a snake you should keep him calm and take him to a vet immediately. The chances of recovery are much greater if your pet is treated early — with some pets making a recovery within 48 hours. Pets left untreated have a much lower survival rate and many die. If your vet is some distance away, if practical, you can apply a pressure bandage — a firm bandage over and around the bite site — to help slow the venom spreading to the heart. Do not directly wash the wound or apply a tourniquet over it. Here are some things that you can do in terms of how to treat a snake bite on a dog, but don’t waste time doing this instead of driving to the vet hospital:

• If you see the bite wound, rinse the wound with water to remove some venom.

• Keep the wound below the heart and keep your pet as still as possible to discourage the spread of venom.

• If your pet isn’t breathing, call the veterinary clinic for instructions for how to administer CPR.

• Keep calm. Pets can sense panic, which can cause them stress. An increase in stress levels may cause venom to be circulated in the body more quickly.

Can snakes swim?

All snakes can swim. Snakes swim by moving their body in lateral, wave-like movements, more or less appearing to shape their body in an S pattern. Swimming comes to all snakes and most animals of animal kingdom, instinctively. Predominantly aquatic snakes will spend majority of the time in water.

Conditions on factory farms and fur farms aren’t any worse than conditions in the wild, where animals die of starvation, disease or predation, are they?

This same argument was once used by US slave owners, who claimed that African-Americans were better off as slaves on plantations than as free men and women. People in prison are also fed and protected, yet a prison sentence is considered one of society’s harshest punishments. 

Animals on factory farms suffer so much that it is inconceivable that they could not be worse off in the wild. The wild isn’t “wild” to the animals who live there; it’s their home. There they have their freedom and can engage in activities that are natural and important to them. The fact that they might suffer in the wild is no reason to ensure that they suffer in captivity. 

Where do birds go when it rains?

Birds can and do take shelter from rain: in bushes, in reeds, under leaves, in nesting cavities. The larger sized seabirds can handle a little bit of rain. In fact, they don’t like to let a storm deter them from going about their day. Smaller seabirds, on the other hand, seek shelter on land and like to perch in some sort of shelter, such as trees, until the storm has passed. Land birds are already shielded, because their feathers shed rain and trap air to keep them warm. [https://www.natureoutside.com/where-do-birds-go-when-it-rains/]

Birds stay as still as they can on purpose, so they can help preserve their energy. When it rains, song birds will seek shelter in the foliage and remain as still as possible to retain energy. They perch so that they are facing into the wind, which reduces air resistance and helps them to hold onto that all-important body heat for longer.

Do bats really suck blood like vampires?

No, bats do not suck blood like vampires, but a particular species, called vampire bats which does not exist in India, feeds on the blood of horses, pigs and even birds. They hunt at night, when other animals are sleeping. They don’t suck blood. They use heat sensors to find a victim’s veins. Sharp teeth cut the animal and the bat simply laps up the little blood that oozes out. 

Do fish sleep?

The nature of fish “sleep” is an area of active research. While fish do not sleep in the same way that land mammals sleep, most fish do rest. Research shows that fish may reduce their activity and metabolism while remaining alert to danger. Some fish float in place, some wedge themselves into a secure spot in the mud or coral, and some locate a suitable nest. These periods of “suspended animation” may perform the same restorative functions as sleep does in people. Some nestle into the bottom of whatever body of water they live in (like the rocks in a fish bowl or the sand in the sea) while others hover close to the bottom, barely moving except for flickering the occasional fin to stay steady. Even though they are asleep, fish are still alert for danger.

Can fish make sounds?

Yes, many fish do make sounds underwater. The noises have been categorised as grunts, squeaks, knocks, drumming, tapping, booming, croaking, growling and snorting. Sounds may be intentionally produced as signals to predators or competitors, to attract mates, or as a response to fright. The majority of sounds produced by fishes are of low frequency and are not audible to humans.

Which is the most trafficked mammal in the world?

Pangolins — scaly, shy and sensitive — are believed to be the world’s most trafficked mammals. A million Pangolins were poached from 2000 through 2013,  leading to fears it could become extinct. 

Pangolins are eaten as bushmeat in Western and Central Africa and by some indigenous groups in South and Southeast Asia. Their parts also are used in Ghana, Nigeria, South Africa and elsewhere in Sub-Saharan Africa as traditional medicine. China is the main consumer. In Vietnam and China, Pangolin meat is considered a delicacy. But it is the demand for their scales that is wiping out the animals.

Can I put food out for the wild parrots? If so then what would they like to eat?

The best foods for parrots/ parakeets are fresh vegetables, fruit and pellets or seeds. In the wild, parrots’ diet can vary considerably and they like to eat fruit and fruit seeds, nuts, flowers and corn where they can find it. A variety of different seeds can be put out, including safflower, millets, oats, buckwheat and canary seeds. Sunflower seeds can be problematic due to the fat content and are best given in moderation only. 

Nuts like cashews, shelled peanuts and grains like barley, rice and quinoa and oatmeal. As far as possible, put out organic fruit and wash it thoroughly before dishing it up. Fresh vegetables like carrot bits, bell peppers, broccoli, corn on the cob, hot peppers, sweet potatoes beans are recommended, including black beans, green beans and kidney beans. Lentils, peas, tofu and chickpeas can also be given. All except kidney beans can be fed raw if desired.

Can I house the turtle along with fish in my aquarium? 

Turtles are not compatible with fishes, as they will try to hunt the fishes. Certain sizes and types of fishes are never safe in the same tank with a turtle. For example, guppies and goldfishes are never compatible with turtles. Putting such fishes along with a turtle will create a total disaster. But why do you want to create so much stress for fish. Another important thing to consider when keeping turtles and fishes together is the space. Turtles can grow very large when they are adult. A typical water turtle, like red-eared slider, can reach 10 to 12 inches long. So, you need to keep in mind that if the tank is too small, it will create territorial problems among the turtle and fishes. So, if you are planning to keep turtles and fishes together, try to go for at least an 100-gallon tank.

Apart from extra space, provide plentiful hiding spots and visual barriers, and ensure that all captives are very well fed. Always use a very large habitat when keeping multiple animals together, irrespective of the species involved. Whereas a single red ear slider may thrive in a 55- or 75-gallon habitat, two turtles should have at least 100 gallons of space, and 200 would be much better. The extra space keeps the animals from being forced into constant contact, which can cause stress. Additionally, it’s important to break up the cage with various hiding spots and visual barriers so a submissive animal can escape a dominant one.

Where do butterflies spend the night?

At night, or during inclement weather, most butterflies perch on the underside of a leaf, crawl deep between blades of grass, or into a crevice in rocks, or find some other shelter, and sleep.

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In this week’s Pet Talk, Maneka talks from dehorning of cattle to dogs shedding hair

By Maneka Gandhi

Why is dehorning of cattle practiced?

It is not done to help the animals. Dehorning is practiced because cattle without horns are easier to handle. Dehorned animals also require less space in the pen, and at the feeder, than horned animals. The most commonly used procedures today are hot-iron disbudding, chemical disbudding (through the application of a caustic paste), and amputation dehorning. Whilst disbudding is usually performed during the first 4 to 6 weeks of the animal’s life, when the horn buds are between 5 and 10 mm long, dehorning is performed once the horn is formed. All these are extremely painful procedures. In some of them the animal can even die.

Why do male birds fight over access to females and not the other way around?

Two reasons: Males outnumber females, so they fight over access to females. The second is that females prefer stronger, more capable, better providing males. The fights are not necessarily vicious ones. They could be about building rival houses, or being brighter in colour, or singing better. The female is looking for husband material and someone who will have stronger genes to pass on to their children. On average, males outnumbered females by around 33%.

Why do dogs shed more hair during summer?

Seasonal shedding occurs as a result of rise in temperature. This process is known as “blowing coats”. When the weather warms, dogs shed their old winter upper coats to make way for a lighter summer coat. However, this is not a lot of hair. If large amounts of hair is being shed, the causes have to be seen immediately. They can range from allergies to mange to fungal infections to malnutrition.

Why do dogs salivate more during summers?

Excess salivation, or drooling, occurs when environmental temperature rises. Dogs breathe through their mouths and put their tongues out to cool down the blood temperature. Constant sticking out of tongue leads to more salivation. Drooling for a longer period can be the sign of heat stroke, or it can also represent tooth decay and gum inflammation.

Why do newborn puppies whine a lot? And how to stop them whining?

Newborn puppies are learning how to communicate their needs and wants. They whine a lot more to get the attention. Sometimes they whine when they are in pain, or they are hungry, or they are separated from the warm body of their mother. In order to stop the whining, observe their behaviour and give them what they need.

What are community dogs and community cats?

Community Cat is a term used to describe outdoor, unowned, free-roaming cats. These cats could be friendly, feral, adults, kittens, healthy, sick, altered or unaltered. A Community Dog is a dog that is not confined to a yard or house. These include street dogs, village dogs, stray dogs, feral dogs, etc., and may be owned or unowned. Such dogs are cared for by one owner or a community of owners, and are able to roam freely. Community Dogs and community cats are the ones roaming freely and which are taken care of by the community or even a single person from the community/ locality.

Can a pregnant animal be vaccinated?

In general, vaccinations are not recommended for pregnant animals. The first half of the pregnancy is the most vulnerable time for foetal development. Vaccines, that are modified live (versus killed), are not considered safe at any time of the pregnancy. Killed vaccines, such as rabies vaccines, may be given during pregnancy (especially during the latter half of gestation), but are not recommended. There may be situations where vaccination may be advised to protect the mother’s health. However, one should avoid vaccinating animals in the last month of pregnancy, as the animal, as well as the foetus, could be injured during restraining.

Can a pregnant animal be dewormed?

Pregnant animals, such as cattle, should be dewormed near the time of calving and again 6-7 weeks after calving, after consultation with a veterinarian. It is particularly important to deworm pregnant dogs in order to prevent them from transferring intestinal parasites to their puppies. 

According to Revival Animal Health, as a mother dog becomes heavily pregnant and stressed late in her pregnancy, parasites become active. Because the mother dog has the lowest resistance to parasites at this time, she’s at risk of developing a significant parasite load, and this can have implications for the puppies. Puppies will be born with sterile guts, and mothers provide the puppies with good bacteria through their milk. 

This bacteria then helps the puppies’ digestive systems. However, the same milk that provides the puppies with good bacteria can also transmit parasites, including roundworms, hookworms, whipworms, Coccidia, and Giardia. With proper deworming you can control the parasites, so they don’t take root in the puppies and get out of control. 

What should we do if a rabid dog bites an animal?

Wash the wound of the bitten animal immediately, under running tap water, for 5-10 minutes. In absence of a tap, pour clean water from a vessel. Clean the wound with ordinary bath soap gently. Apply tincture iodine and take the animal to the nearest Veterinary Officer. 

If the animal that bit your pet can be captured, have the animal isolated and if he dies, his brain tested for rabies. If the test is negative for rabies and your pet has not been vaccinated, you should vaccinate your pet immediately. If the biting animal tested positive for rabies and the pet is current on its rabies vaccination, the pet should be given a booster vaccine immediately. 

Observe your pet for 45 days for any symptoms of rabies after the booster shot. If the biting animal tests positive for rabies and your pet has never been vaccinated, the recommendation is to put the pet down. If you are unwilling to euthanise the pet, it must be confined for 6 months and vaccinated against rabies (the rabies vaccine must be administered at least 1 month prior to release). All species of livestock are susceptible to rabies. As with domestic pets, livestock that have been vaccinated for rabies should be revaccinated immediately and observed for 45 days. 

My dog’s eyes are red. What could be the problem?

If your dog’s eyes appear visibly red or swollen, it could be a sign of something as minor as an irritation or mild allergy, or as serious as eye disease. Redness, swelling and discharge can indicate a wide array of issues for dogs, from harmless, mild allergies, to something far more serious. Some of the most common causes of red, bloodshot, and/ or weepy eyes in dogs include, eye injury or trauma, such as a scratch or foreign object in the eye, allergies, conjunctivitis, glaucoma, dry eye syndrome, uveitis and corneal ulcers. Red eyes can also be caused by underlying medical issues like hyperthyroidism, diabetes and some cancers. Sometimes a red eye is simply a temporary reaction to a mild irritant but never take this lightly.

Does tick fever affect the lifespan of dogs?

Any disease reduces a lifespan. Tick fever is a broad generic term that identifies a group of diseases. As ticks suck the blood of a dog, they transmit a large number of diseases, including Rocky Mountain spotted fever, Ehrlichiosis, Q fever, and Lyme disease. Skin wounds, caused by ticks, can lead to secondary bacterial infections and screwworm infestations. 

Severe tick infestations can lead to anaemia and death. Toxins from these ticks may cause paralysis. Chronic problems from Lyme disease may include kidney, heart or neurologic problems. In dogs, the most common of these chronic problems is possibly irreversible kidney failure.

How to stop dogs from being over-possessive of their owner and nipping people around them?

Stopping dogs from being over-possessive and nipping people around them is not difficult. You just have to stop giving him unlimited attention, teach him to cope up with being alone, encourage him to bond with other people and enforce some ground rules and boundaries. Actually, it’s a blessing when the dog shows its protective stance during emergency situations, but it’s another matter when they are trying to protect their owners from somebody who isn’t doing anything wrong.

How fast can distemper kill a puppy?

Almost no puppies survive distemper and they have complications such as pneumonia and encephalitis. The terminal stage for Canine Distemper is usually 2-4 weeks after infection; however, if the nervous system is affected, most die within days.

Do dogs like travelling in cars or riding on scooters?

All dogs are different. While some dogs really love to ride in a car or on a scooter, it isn’t true in the case of all the dogs. If they are not used to it, travelling with your dog can be a stressful activity for your pet, as you are taking them out their normal routine and they might be easily scared and anxious during the travel.

Do stray dogs feel lonely or left out or feel a lack of love?

Indian dogs are community dogs. They do not move in packs. They like human communities and prefer to live near them, no matter how brutally they are treated. They need affection as pets do. They have made themselves utterly and completely dependent on humans.

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In this week’s Pet Talk, Maneka explains dog’s behaviour and how to make friends with dogs

By Maneka Gandhi

Can I let my dog share my bed at night?

Letting your dog share your bed might not pose too much of an inconvenience if you would normally sleep alone. However, if you then decide that you no longer want it as your night time companion, getting it out of your bed might prove harder than you think.

How can one at an individual level help street animals?

The first thing is to feed the animals in your area. Make sure they are vaccinated and sterilised, and look after their health needs. You need to keep them safe from poisonous neighbours who will attack you and them.

You can help by directly donating funds to the shelter as a sponsor. Another way is to organise fund-raiser events, like fun runs or walk-a-thons, for your cause. Getting the whole community involved not only helps in reaching the monetary goal but also helps to create awareness for animals in need, that leads to helping more animals in the future. Volunteering in rescue centres is a proactive way to make a huge impact on the animals. Caring for animals is a challenging task and any help would be very much welcome. Talk to these shelters and see if they are accepting volunteers. Even just a couple of hours every week can provide a shelter with the assistance they need. 

Donating funds and supplies to animal shelters is also one of the best things you can do for animals in the shelter. Old blankets, toys, and other supplies can greatly help the shelters to save what limited resources they have. Ask your family and friends to participate in a donation drive for the benefit of your local shelter. 

Fostering is an effective way to help homeless pets in shelters. By fostering, you help rehabilitate pets and teach them how to live with humans. Elderly and special needs pets need more intensive care due to their condition. The shelters may not be able to provide the care they need in-house, and fostering is a great way to accommodate those special needs. This also helps the shelter because they can channel their limited resources to the animals that need the most care. Even the smallest things can have significant effects on the lives of animals in the shelter. If you are not able to volunteer or foster, you can still help with money. You make a huge impact when you donate to save animals. The funds will be used to buy supplies like food and medicine, and to improve the shelter’s facilities.

Why do dogs lick people?

Licking is an instinctive behaviour that dogs are born with. Dogs not only lick out of affection, but for variety of reasons, such as taste, communication, reward/ attention, to show submission, enjoyment, investigation and licking helps them release dopamine endorphins that help them calm down.

Do dogs prefer to be alone or with another dog?

As a species they have an instinctive, deeply ingrained compulsion to gather with other members of their own species. However, some dogs prefer the company of human beings instead of other dogs. And while dogs may be pack animals, new research shows that as dogs became more domesticated, they may have bonded more with humans than with other dogs. Your dog and second dog, keep each other company when you’re at work, school, or out running errands, so they won’t resort to boredom. Bringing a second dog into the family will also reduce your dog’s separation anxiety. The dogs will keep each other company while you’re away from your home, and give each other the emotional support and attention they need to stay calm, cool, and collected. Plus, they’ll have a new playmate. 

If the family members are not free, and don’t give much time, he will get bored and prefer to have another dog as a friend with whom he can play. But if he is getting proper attention in the house, he will prefer to be alone than to have another dog, because he would feel that the love and attention he is getting will get distributed. 

Do dogs really feel sleepy when they yawn?

They could just be tired, but often there’s something deeper going on. But the yawn is often used as a calming signal. It may indicate anticipation or stress. Your dog may yawn repeatedly, when it’s waiting in the vet’s office, as a way of dealing with nervousness. Sometimes dogs yawn in anticipation of something enjoyable, such as a walk as a way of controlling enthusiasm.

Why does my puppy sit on or inside my slippers?

The scent that comes from the slippers/ shoes is your scent and this is very comforting for the dog. When you are not around, your dog might go into your room and lie on your slippers/ shoes as a way to comfort himself while you are gone.

How to comfort your dog when he is afraid?

If the dog comes running to you for comfort, don’t hesitate to give her lots of pets and love. If she hides, don’t rush to coax her out of its safe place, as that may only increase her anxiety. Instead, maintain a calm, quiet, happy environment for her to emerge into when  ready. Here are a few other suggestions for how to comfort a dog depending on the situation. 

If your dog is nervous, but you know they’re obsessed with playing fetch, try distracting them with the tennis ball. Focusing on something else can help them ignore the stressor. Scent can be a powerful calming agent for nervous pups. Pet your dog, or just sit beside it and let it feel your calming presence.

Physical contact helps lower stress in both humans and dogs. Just be sure to maintain your own calm, positive attitude. Anxiety can sometimes be relieved by physical activity. If your dog has been pacing a lot at home, or acting like they have a lot of pent-up energy, try adding an extra, brisk walk to the daily routine. Sometimes, dogs just need a break in a quiet place. If your dog is over-stimulated, more stimulation may make matters worse. Offer them a quiet room or comfy                                    area to calm down in.

Is it okay for a dog if he is not eating anything for the whole day?

Dogs can go a couple of days without food with no significant bad effects, but loss of appetite can indicate illness. First check the quality of food, if it has been changed. Dogs may lose their appetite if they are ill, have dental disease, recent vaccinations, unfamiliar surroundings, or even behavioural issues. Make sure that he is drinking water. It is normal for a dog to turn one meal every once in a while.

Why do dogs vocalise, chew, defecate and urinate when they are separated from owners?

These are symptoms of separation anxiety. Dogs with separation anxiety generally do not feel comfortable if separated from their owners and may begin to pace, circle, bark, whine, or display other signs of anxiety, as the owner prepares to leave. Distress vocalisation, salivating and destructive behaviour are more common signs of separation anxiety, and one or more are usually seen along with the house soiling.

Why do dogs love looking outside the window?

Same reason as you do: To see the world outside. Most of the dog owners leave their dogs in isolation at home, so this is the only way they can stay interested. Some dogs bark at passing vehicles, animals and humans, probably to get a reaction out of them and possibly to communicate. A few dogs even whine as they try to alert their owners of some unusual happenings.

How to make friends with stray dogs?

By feeding them. Do not go near them until they are ready to make friends, otherwise you will get bitten. They have been hurt, abused and chased so often that your gesture will be seen as aggressive and hostile. So, wait till they make the moves. Until then give them food at the same time and place twice a day. 

Look to one side of the dog rather than staring it down. Dogs consider this to be a sign of domination. They interpret it as a kind of challenge, and it can cause the dog to think you want to fight. 

Making a soft clicking noise with your tongue, or talking to a stray quietly, will be effective in getting a stray dog’s attention. It is imperative that you do not startle or scare a stray dog, as they can become defensive and potentially attack you. Move slowly, remain calm, and use a soothing voice, doing so should keep you from scaring the dog, and thus help keep you safe too.

You might be able to get the dog to come to you by calling to it in a soothing voice and putting out your hand with food in it if it shows interest, such as by wagging its tail. Hold out your hand palm down. This is less threatening to most animals, and also lessens the chances of your fingers being bitten. Allow the animal to finish its examination of your hand, then slowly move your hand to its shoulder. Do not pet its head, as it may scare them or cause them to bite. Remember that many animals have areas that they do not like having touched, so go slowly and allow the animal to tell you whether what you are doing is okay with its reactions.

Why do dogs sniff each other’s rear?

Dogs sniff each other’s rear as a form of greeting and to obtain vital information from anal secretions: If the dog is aggressive, ill, or if they have met before. That aroma emanating from the anal region is a unique form of canine identification. In addition to chemical communication, dogs smell rear ends as a calming mechanism, which soothes them and serves as a stress reliever.

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In this week’s Pet Talk, Maneka explains how to stop hand-feeding and bottle-feeding a puppy

By Maneka Gandhi

Why does my dog pant whenever I take him for a walk?

Dogs expel most of their body heat from their mouths. When your dog pants, he’s probably too warm, so it is regulating his body temperature. However, it’s important to pay attention to panting, as it may do it when in pain as well. Help your dog regulate its temperature and make sure it’s well hydrated before any physical activity — especially as the weather warms up. Some other health problems may also show increased panting as a sign, so don’t hesitate to contact your vet. 

How to stop hand-feeding and bottle-feeding?

The first step in the weaning process is to introduce your puppy to a bowl. This can be done when the puppy is about 3 weeks old. Fill the bowl with the milk replacement formula your puppy is used to getting in his bottle. At this early stage, your puppy may do more playing in the bowl than eating. This is how it comes to realise that this stuff in the bowl is really his food. You can dip your finger in the milk and let the puppy lick it off to help him understand that the bowl contains his food. 

Continue to bottle-feed your puppy during this time, though you may decrease the amount of milk given at each feeding, or the number of feedings, if it seems your puppy is starting to eat enough when he is offered the bowl. 

Once your puppy seems to have accomplished lapping up milk from its bowl, it’s time to introduce him to gruel. This can happen a few days after you first introduce the bowl of milk to him, depending upon his progress. Make the gruel by adding some of the milk replacement formula to dry puppy food. Let it stand for a few minutes so the kibbles become soft and soupy. Again, continue to bottle-feed during this time, though you may decrease the amount you feed, or the number of feedings, even more if your puppy is responding well to eating the gruel. 

The weaning process is going to be messy. Your puppy is going to wade in his bowl. It is going to stick his entire face in the milk. Mostly likely, it’ll be filthy at the end of each feeding. It’s important to wash the puppy off and make sure it is dry and warm after each feeding. 

Always provide a bowl of fresh water between feedings. If you’re raising more than one puppy, it’s also important to monitor each puppy’s progress at eating on his own. The largest in the litter may be chowing down on the kibble within a few days and be done with the bottle by the time he is 4 weeks old, while the runt may need to be supplemented with bottle-feedings for a                            couple additional weeks. 

Monitor the puppies’ weights every few days to ensure they are continuing to gain and grow throughout the weaning process. By the time your puppy is 7 to 8 weeks old, the weaning process should be completed. This means that there are no more bottle-feedings and you’ve gradually reduced the amount of water in the       gruel to the point that the puppy is eating dry food.

How to stop my dog from begging?

Firstly, you will have to stop giving in. Every time you give your dogs a treat from the table it’s teaching them that begging works. It might not work every day, but dogs have good memories; they’ll keep trying if they know it worked last week. 

You need to completely ignore the behaviour. If it receives a scrap from you one single time he knows that his efforts might pay off next time. Right before you sit down to eat, feed your dog, preferably in a separate room from where you dine. Eating in a room away from the dining area is also an acceptable way to manage begging behaviour by preventing them in the first place. 

You can teach your dog to lie down in another room while you eat, or keep them in a separate room. If you don’t want your dog to stay completely separated from you while you eat you can redirect its attention to some food, toys, or treats of his own. Give your dog something else to focus on while you eat. You can’t give in, no matter how much it begs or what sounds he’s making, otherwise it will put you back to square one.

Are Crocin and Digene syrups harmful for dogs?

The consumption of Crocin and Digene syrup by dogs are harmful and even fatal.

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In this week’s Pet Talk, Maneka gives tips on how to set up a chicken house for pet chickens

By Maneka Gandhi

How will I know if my chicken is ill?

Keep an eye out for signs of illness, such as a pale comb (the top of their head), heavy breathing, coughing, wheezing and a runny nose.

How to pet a chicken?

As you get more comfortable with your chicken, it will allow you to pet it. Call it by its name and when it approaches, gently pet it. The sweet spot is the back of its neck underneath the fluff of its feathers — gently rub it here to calm it. Over time, your chicken might be comfortable sitting in your lap and letting you pet it. Try carrying your chicken around while you pet it to make it feel more comfortable around you. Do not make much sound while approaching it. It should never be sudden or too quiet as it might run away. Try scattering some oats or other treats along the ground and move around while doing so. Play hide-and-seek by hiding while your chicken forages, and clucking to it. You can also dig a small hole, hide a red bell pepper or red fruit (without seeds) and fill it loosely with dirt — chickens are drawn to the colour red.

Do chickens like to be scratched?

It depends on the relationship the chicken has with the person who is scratching it. If he likes it, it will let you do it. Else it will jump off and move away.

Why do chickens squat down their bodies?

The most common reason for hens / chicken to squat down is when they want to express their unwillingness to do something. Another reason she squats down is to allow the rooster to mate with her.

Are chickens scared of loud noises?

Yes, generally chickens get startled when they hear a sudden noise, and start flapping around.

What do chickens eat?

Fresh feed is important for a healthy chicken and they should be allowed to eat as much food as they want. Provide baby chickens with a grower/ starter diet (20 percent protein and 4 percent fat) until 20 weeks of age. Give laying hens a laying diet, which is usually 16 percent protein and 3.5 to 5 percent calcium. Finally, give your roosters and non-laying hens a maintenance diet. If you can’t find one, dilute laying ration with 20 percent fresh fruits and vegetables. 

Supplement your chicken’s diet with grit, probiotics, dried herbs, food-grade dichotomous earth, flower petals, leftovers (oatmeal, pasta, rice, fresh greens), fresh produce and protein-rich foods.

Add 1 tablespoon (15 mL) of apple cider vinegar per 1 gallon (3.8 L) of water, 3 to 4 times a week, to prevent disease, boost immunity, and discourage parasites. Just make sure to only add it to plastic water drinkers.

Mix in 1 crushed clove of garlic into your chicken’s water daily to boost its immune system and prevent worms.

Can I lift the chicken by its wings or feet?

Do not grab a chicken by the wings or legs. In order to keep the chicken calm and content, you should hold it in a comfortable way. Grabbing it by its appendages will only make the animal struggle to get free, and possibly get injured, instead of making it comfortable enough to be petted.

How to set up a chicken house for pet chickens?

Your chicken needs enough space to exercise and move freely. Take a look at your garden before buying your chicken house and make sure you have enough room. Or, a fenced-in yard to let your chicken loose is ideal. Make sure the chicken house is covered overhead and surrounded by a fence, so predators can’t get inside. Align the perches so that there’s enough space for your chickens to get on and off them without hurting themselves. Create your own perch by running a piece of wood, or a tree branch, horizontally across the chicken house.

Do chickens need a bedding area to sit?

Yes, hens need a bedding area. Straw is the most common choice for bedding due to its residual warmth, cushioning, and a fun environment for your chicken to pick through. Wood shavings are also good. Regardless of what you use, purchase enough to cover the floor of the house in a 2 inch (5.1 cm) thick layer. Purchase chicken house bedding from pet stores. Don’t use sawdust.

Do we need to clean a chicken’s house regularly?

Chickens need a clean environment to thrive. Scoop droppings, refill water, and feed them daily. Once a week you should wash feeders and waterers and air dry them. Every month, rake out all your chicken bedding, sweep the floor, scrub the floors, walls, and roosts, scrape off waste, and put in clean bedding.

Is it safe to play music for chickens?

Chickens have a great sense of hearing and respond not just to various sounds but also pleasant-sounding music. Try playing some classical music in front of your chicken. You can also hum, whistle, and sing to get its attention. Try playing a flute or guitar for your chicken.

Can we talk to chickens?

Chickens are very chatty little creatures. They have a proper language and they talk to you and each other. Communicating with them is easier than you think. Listen closely to the different sounds the chicks, hens, and rooster make. Then, try speaking back to them. Communicating with your chickens can help you train them to obey simple commands and will strengthen your bond with them.

What kind of weather do chickens need to survive?

Although chickens are very adaptable to weather changes, they usually perform their best around 23 degree C. Consistently high summer temperatures can cause your chickens to suffer from heat stress, overheating. For heavier breeds, extreme heat can even cause death. If chickens are a hardy breed and their coop is properly prepared, most chickens will not need heat in winter. If your temperatures are extremely low for long periods of time, your birds may need some extra warmth to survive.

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In this week’s Pet Talk, Maneka talks about animal cruelty & advantages of getting a dog / cat neutered

By Maneka Gandhi

Is there evidence of a connection between animal cruelty and domestic violence?

Absolutely. Hundreds of studies in psychology, sociology and criminology, in the past 50 years, have demonstrated that violent offenders frequently have childhood and adolescence histories of serious and repeated animal cruelty. The connection has been recognised since the 1970s, when its analysis of the lives of serial killers suggested that most had killed or tortured animals as children. Research has shown consistent patterns of animal cruelty among perpetrators of other forms of violence, including child abuse, spousal abuse and elder abuse.

What is considered to be animal cruelty?

Anything that gives an animal pain. Animal cruelty encompasses a range of behaviours harmful to animals, from neglect to malicious killing. Unintentional neglect could start from tying up a pet the entire day on a roof      or on a balcony. 

Extended periods of neglect can lead to seriously compromised health or even death. Intentional cruelty can run the gamut, from knowingly depriving an animal of food, water, shelter, socialisation or veterinary care, to maliciously torturing, maiming, mutilating or killing an animal. Institutions, like slaughterhouses, can be the       extreme form of cruelty.

Why do pugs have difficulty in breathing?

Many dogs in these breeds suffer from a disease called Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome (BOAS). The compact architecture of their skull results in deformation, which makes their nostrils or soft palate too small, obstructing airflow and leaving the dogs     gasping for breath.

Why are chained dogs more aggressive?

Tethering is not only bad for dogs — it is a high-risk factor in serious dog bites and attacks. Dogs, unable to retreat from perceived or real threats, can act out aggressively when approached. Dogs tethered for long periods can become highly aggressive. Dogs feel naturally protective of their territory; when confronted with a perceived threat, they respond according to their fight-or-flight instinct. 

A tied dog, unable to take flight, resorts to fight,  attacking any unfamiliar animal or person who wanders into his or her territory. Tragically, the victims of such attacks are often children who approach the dog unaware of the risks. Furthermore, tethered dogs, who finally do get loose from their chains, may remain aggressive and are likely to chase and attack unsuspecting passersby and pets, because they have developed severe behaviour problems from long-term, intensive confinement. It is important for people, who tie dogs up all the time, to understand these risks.

How old does a dog need to be before it can be separated from its mother?

Most veterinarians recommend that puppies be at least 8 weeks old before being separated from its mother and littermates. This ensures the puppy’s best chance for good health, both mentally and physically. The best situation for developing a healthy immune system. And the best assurance that the pup won’t show behaviour problems later in life.

Do dogs only bark when they are upset?

No, that’s only one thing their barks can mean. Barking is a language. Dogs also bark when they want something, like food or a door to be opened, someone’s attention, when they are tied up and unhappy. Sometimes they bark to alert other people and dogs to something or someone they find suspicious. 

These barks might also be intended to frighten the person or animal whose presence bothers them. They might bark a few times, make a low, drawn out growl, and then resume barking if the person gets more suspicious. These barks can progress into  anger barks.

What are the advantages of getting a dog / cat neutered?

The female animal will live a longer, healthier life. 

Spaying helps prevent uterine infections and breast cancer, which is fatal in about 50 percent of dogs and 90 percent of cats. Spaying the animal before her first heat offers the best protection from these diseases.

Neutering provides major health benefits for the male. Besides preventing unwanted litters, neutering the male companion prevents testicular cancer.

The spayed female won’t go into heat. While cycles can vary, female felines usually go into heat four to five days every three weeks during breeding season. In an effort to advertise for mates, they’ll yowl and urinate more frequently.

The  male dog won’t want to roam away from home. 

The  neutered male will be much better behaved. Neutered cats and dogs focus their attention on their human families. On the other hand, unneutered cats and dogs may mark their territory by spraying strong-smelling urine all over the house. Many aggression problems can be avoided by early neutering.

It is highly cost-effective. 

The cost of the animal’s spay/ neuter surgery is a lot less than the cost of having and caring for a litter.

Spaying and neutering the dog/ cat is good for the community. Stray animals pose a real problem in many parts of the country. They can prey on wildlife, cause car accidents, damage the local fauna and frighten children. Spaying and neutering packs a powerful punch in reducing the number of                                         animals on the streets.

Spaying and neutering helps fight pet overpopulation. Every year, millions of cats and dogs of all ages and breeds are euthanised or suffer as strays. These high numbers are the result of unplanned litters that could have been prevented by spaying or neutering.

What are the indications that a dog is dying?

As dogs draw closer to death, they may begin to lose interest in things and people around them. It is normal if your dog no longer wants to play, as they will experience a loss of interest and a decrease in energy levels. Your dog may even stop responding to you or your family members entirely. 

A common reason dogs lose interest, when they are dying, is that their brain functions begin to shut down. They may experience mental confusion that causes them to appear detached. Typically, a dying dog will lie in one place without moving around very much. This place may be a quiet corner of your home or somewhere secluded, and it may not be a spot where they usually lie. Your dog might not even have enough energy to lift their head. A dying dog will experience appetite changes and may lose their appetite entirely. 

No matter what food or treats you offer, dogs that have lost their appetite will typically refuse both food and water. The closer your dog is to dying, the less of an appetite they will have. In addition to an inability to control their bowels, a dying dog may vomit after eating or drinking. When a dog is dying, they often lose control over their bladder and bowels as their organs begin to shut down. This can lead to peeing or experiencing a bowel movement wherever they are lying. Even if a dog is very well-trained, he may not have the energy to get up to relieve themselves.

Can we make our dog eat only pure vegetarian food?

Yes, a pure vegetarian/ vegan diet can be given do dogs. Rice, lentils and vegetables with curd can be given. Also you can feed your dogs cottage cheese, as it is protein-rich. Soyabean nuggets and curry is a good source of protein. Dry paneer can be given with chapattis, and covers most protein requirements. Green beans and lentils are high on carbohydrates, vitamins and minerals. Vegetable stew is easy to make and nutritious, and khichdi is good for old and convalescent dogs. If your efforts are met with resistance, tempt your animal friends by serving them warm, or by adding soy milk or nutritional yeast. Dogs require two amino acids, called L-carnitine and taurine, that can be insufficient in plant-based or cooked dog food unless it is supplemented. Sometimes a dog will eat better if he has a mashed, boiled or scrambled egg mixed with the food.

Sometimes my dog digs at the carpet or sofa?

There are a number of possible explanations for this behaviour. Dogs never want to miss a dropped crumb or speck of their favourite, or some other tiny but tasty, tidbit you dropped. With a powerfully strong sense of smell, it may smell food on the couch or buried in the fibres of the carpeting. There may also be an intriguing smell left behind from somebody else, tracked in on a shoe or dropped there, that compels your dog to dig at the carpeting to find out what it is. Every smell tells a story when dog sniffs it. 

At times of high excitement or stress, you may see your dog digging and pawing with no apparent purpose. It may want to chase a bird she sees outside but cannot get to, so instead it digs at the carpet or chair to release some of that anxious energy. Dogs will do strange, and sometimes destructive, things when they get bored, such as tearing apart papers, toys, or chair cushions. Boredom can also cause dogs to dig at the carpet or couch cushions. 

Dogs made their sleeping areas safe and comfortable by digging and rearranging the surface where they slept. It may dig and turn in circles creating a safe space in which to rest. Your dog is not trying to be bad when it digs and scratches at your carpeting or furniture. It is just doing what comes naturally.

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In this week’s Pet Talk, Maneka gives tips on how to combat possessiveness in pet dogs

By Maneka Gandhi

After how many days can we take our puppy for a walk on the street?

 You can take your puppy for a walk after 14-16 weeks of age, but wait until 10-14 days after your puppy’s last vaccination booster.

How can I stop my dog from being possessive about his food ?

 One tactic for putting a stop to protective tendencies in a dog is to teach him that good things happen, when other humans or animals approach their food or belongings, from a young age. Use your hands to fill your dog’s bowl with food at mealtimes, so the puppy learns that when others come near their feeding bowl, something positive will occur. You can also bring a high value treat toward the bowl with your hand while the dog is eating. You can help your dog develop self-control, respect, and good behaviour by teaching your pup that food, treats, and toys must be earned. 

Before serving meals, handing over treats, or giving up toys, have your dog perform a task, such as sitting or lying down. This lets your dog know it is not okay to take whatever he wants, and he must work for food and rewards. Before giving food, treats, or toys to your dog, ensure it recognises that you are the owner. 

Asserting ownership is another way to deal with over-possessiveness. One tactic for asserting ownership is to have your dog wait before accessing its food or belongings. Stand over the food bowl or item confidently, and do not allow her to run for it until she has sat and waited patiently for your permission. You can teach a dog to respond to the “leave” command when he has possession of something in his mouth. Hold out a treat, and call out the command “leave” as he lets go of the item and walks towards you. Reward it with the treat for his obedience, and remove the item as quickly as possible. 

“Give” is another useful command for combating possessiveness in your dog. You can teach your dog to give when he has a toy in his mouth. Gently take the toy in your hand without trying to pull it away. With your other hand, show your dogs some treats. When he lets go of the item to take the treats, speak the command “Give”. Reward him with the treat, and let him have the toy back. With these, over protective tendencies in a dog can be stopped.

 Can you leave a dog in a car with AC on?

 Do not leave your dogs alone in parked cars. Cracking windows, short periods of time, relatively mild days, leaving water, or running the air conditioner, do not make a parked car a safe place for a pet to be alone.

 Do dogs remember if you hit them?

 Dogs will not remember that you hit them in many cases, as long as it is not a frequent occurrence. Dogs do have episodic memory, allowing them to remember specific instances of intense abuse. While a dog’s memory is limited, they do have the capacity to associate habitual abuse with their owner. Dogs are very forgiving and want to please, so long as you do not habitually abuse your dog, or use excessive force, the dog is unlikely to remember it for very long. The stronger your relationship is with your dog, the quicker the memory will be erased. Dogs tend to feed directly off your energy, so as long as you exhibit calm and positive energy, they will likely bounce right back. The use of excessive force can quickly result in the dog associating you with negative treatment, placing your relationship with the dog on the wrong foot and getting him unduly scared of you. If you’ve taken the time to build a relationship with your dog, a display of your disapproval will be all that you require. Positive reinforcement is a far better way to train a dog, when possible, by rewarding positive behaviour more than punishing negative ones.

 How do I say sorry to my dog?

 It’s hard to say whether dogs do understand when you say sorry, so, if you are going to apologise to your dog, do it right at the point you did whatever it was that was wrong. By saying sorry to your dog at the point you upset them, scared them, and broke their trust, there’s more chance that they might understand the context of the apology. If you have just trodden on their toe and made them yelp, the best way how to let your dog know you’re sorry is to be ultra-calm. 

Do this by lowering the tone and volume of your voice, moving down to their level, and talking in soft and soothing tones. You can supplement this soft apology approach with tactile messages, such as strokes, whilst apologizing to your dog for hurting them. 

Give them a little physical space and talk calmly to them. That way it’s more likely that your dogs will forgive you when you accidentally hurt them. If you have been out all day, or perhaps haven’t been giving your dogs the attention they deserve, then you might owe them an apology. The best way to do that with active dogs is to take them out to do what they love. You can offer an apology to your dogs by playing with them, showering them with attention, and making them your sole focus. Whilst they might not understand the apology, they will appreciate the love and attention you can give to them.

 Can we give dogs porridge after whelping?

 Porridge can be given to dogs after whelping. Oats are a wonderful ingredient, as they are very digestible and also high in protein. After whelping, the mother may appear to go off food. This is not unusual, but you can help her digest her food by soaking oats in a little warm milk and making a mash with a porridge-like consistency.

Does a dog’s behaviour change when she is pregnant?

 One of the earliest and most common symptoms that one is likely to notice is a sudden change in their appetite. Dogs can experience morning sickness, which can put them off their food during the first few weeks. One can also notice lack of energy, behavioural changes, and one of the most noticeable sign that dog is pregnant will be changes to their nipples, which will begin to appear more swollen and become darker, particularly the ones closest to their hind legs. 

The behaviour of pregnant dogs change. They may become less active and lethargic and may not want to eat regular foods. They might experience nesting urges, where they might hoard food or other items. Pregnant dogs may become usually irritable to noise and strangers, and will want more attention and affection.

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In this week’s Pet Talk, Maneka deals with food aggression in dogs and paw-licking

By Maneka Gandhi

Why do dogs threaten if we go near their food bowl?

Dogs can be territorial, especially when it comes to mealtime. Food aggression causes dogs to be protective over their food. It can become an issue: those living with the dog could be at risk of being bitten, and it could lead to your dog becoming possessive in other areas of its life and even about you. Food aggression in dogs can be learned in puppyhood, either by accidental training practices, or by needing to compete over limited resources in a shelter environment. Dogs can also develop food aggression later in life as well. 

Trauma can be a massive trigger, something like losing a caretaker, physical abuse or neglect, natural disasters, or fighting with another dog can bring on symptoms of food aggression. They become more protective over their resources, most importantly, their food. 

Some breeds are genetically predisposed to dominant or aggressive tendencies, and may guard food due to a pack-like mentality. Dogs like English Springer Spaniels, German Shepherds or Rottweilers, are well-known for having hereditary guarding instincts, though these instincts typically apply to livestock or property. 

While there can be a number of causes for food aggression in dogs, those that spent time in a shelter may be at a higher risk to experience this resource guarding tendency, due to competition for the available resources like beds, treats, potential mates or food.

Does hitting a dog on the nose hurt them?

The dog’s nose is a sensitive area. It is made of cartilage and soft tissue and it has a blood supply of arteries and veins and nerves. A traumatic nose injury in dogs can cause bleeding and pain. Dogs should not be tapped, smacked or punched on the nose for any reason. Repeated tapping to the dog’s noise may trigger fear and self defence in the long run and the dog may at some point react defensively.

What does it mean if my dog’s breath smells different ?

If you notice a marked change, with even a little halitosis, it might be time to take a trip to the veterinarian. There could be something wrong with your dog’s oral health. A change in the smell of your dog’s breath may also be a cause for concern with respect to its gastrointestinal tract, liver, or kidneys. If your dog’s breath smells of urine, for instance, it could have a kidney problem. Sweet-smelling breath is a sign to vets that your dog may have diabetes. The overall dog mood may appear happy, but if his breath has changed, pay attention.

Can dogs also suffer from diabetes?

Yes, diabetes is a chronic disease that can affect dogs as well as humans. Although diabetes can’t be cured, it can be managed very successfully. Diabetes mellitus, or sugar diabetes, is the type of diabetes seen most often in dogs. It is caused by either a lack of insulin in your dog’s body or, in some cases, an ‘inadequate’ biological response to it. When your dog eats, the food is broken down. One of the components of their food, glucose, is carried to their cells by insulin. Canine diabetes is more common in middle-age and older dogs, but it is also seen in young dogs. Some of the causes of diabetes in dogs are chronic or repeated pancreatitis (inflammation of the pancreas) which can eventually cause extensive damage to that organ, resulting in diabetes. 

Obesity contributes to insulin resistance and is a risk factor for pancreatitis, which can lead to diabetes. Steroid medications can cause diabetes when used long-term. With Cushing’s disease, the body overproduces steroids internally, so this condition also can cause diabetes. Some autoimmune disorders and viral diseases are also thought to possibly trigger diabetes.

What are the symptoms of diabetes in dogs?

Few common symptoms are excessive thirst, increase in urination, unexplained weight loss, appetite changes, sweet-smelling breath, tiredness or lack of energy, urinary tract infection, loss of eyesight. The dog may ask to go outside frequently and increased urination happens, because the body is trying to get rid of excess sugar by sending it out through urine, along with water that bonds to the sugar. The dog can lose weight despite eating normal portions. This is because the dog isn’t efficiently converting nutrients from its food. The dog can be very hungry all the time because the body’s cells aren’t getting all the glucose they need, even though the dog is eating a normal amount.

How to stop dogs from biting shoes?

If you catch your dogs chewing on something they shouldn’t, interrupt the behaviour with a loud noise. Offer them an acceptable chew toy instead, and praise them lavishly when they take the toy in their mouth. If your puppy is teething, try freezing a wet washcloth for them to chew on. The cold cloth will soothe their gums. Supervise your puppy so they don’t chew and swallow any pieces of the washcloth. Offer your dog a treat in exchange for the item in their mouth. As your dog catches on to this idea, you can add the command “Give” as their cue to release the object in exchange for the yummy treat. Don’t chase your dog if they grab an object and run. If you chase them, you are only giving your dog what they want. Being chased by their human is fun for them. Instead, call them to you or offer them a treat. Have realistic expectations. At some point your dog will inevitably chew up something you value; this is often part of the transition to a new home. Your dog needs time to learn the house rules and you need to remember to take precautions and keep things out of their reach.

Why do dogs lick their paws?

Occasional paw-licking is normal for dogs as a part of their self-grooming process, especially when they come inside after walking on dirty or sandy ground. But if your dog frequently and intensely licks his paws, you can assume that something is wrong. The first step to take, especially if the licking begins very suddenly and is focused on one paw, is to examine the paws to make certain there is not an injury such as a cut, torn nail, growth, or perhaps a stone, thorn or tick stuck between the pads. 

Look closely at the nails, between the toes and pads, and at the tops of the feet. Your dog may have irritated its paw by stepping on something sharp, walking on hot sidewalks, being stung by a bee, or getting a blister. Some of these problems can be relieved by a simple first aid treatment, while others might require treatment by a veterinarian. If the paw pads and feet appear normal, the licking could be due to a skin condition, which often is the result of bacterial problems, allergies, or food sensitivities. 

Your dog could develop dermatitis by being allergic to chemicals or certain types of grass or weeds. Keeping a bowl of water and a towel near the door, to gently clean off the paws when you come inside, could help. 

Parasite infections, such as fleas or mange, can cause the paws to be very itchy. Finally, a dog that is experiencing pain, due to arthritis or other foot or leg conditions, may lick its paws. Even if the pain is somewhere else in their body, some dogs will try to deal with it by licking a front paw continuously. This requires diagnosis and treatment by a veterinarian. If you have ruled out all of the above problems, then your dog may be suffering from boredom, or a behavioural problem such as anxiety. Again, this is difficult to diagnose, but there are some steps you can take to help. Some dogs develop compulsive behaviours, which include paw-licking. To alleviate boredom, try taking your dog for more walks, runs, or playtime with you and with other dogs, to use up more mental and physical energy. Give it safe chew toys to take its focus away from its paws. If you think anxiety, such as fear of noises or separation anxiety, may be causing him to lick its paws, there are a number of ways you can attempt to relieve the anxiety. 

It’s important to recognise that licking behaviour can be indicative of a health problem and may become harmful to the dog. Don’t wait too long to do this, because the moisture of constant foot licking can cause a secondary bacterial or yeast infection — causing even more itching, redness, swelling, and licking. Meanwhile, depending on the underlying cause of the problem, the veterinarian may relieve your dog’s itching by prescribing topical anti-itch sprays, steroids to reduce inflammation, antibiotics for a bacterial infection, or anti-fungals for yeast infections.

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In this week’s Pet Talk, Maneka gives tips on pet dog behaviour

By Maneka Gandhi

Why do dogs sit in between human legs?

Sometimes dogs may go between their owner’s legs seeking comfort or safety. Research has found that medium and large dogs are more likely to demonstrate this behaviour than small dogs. A lack of confidence, anxiety, or excitement can cause dogs to seek the closeness or protection of their owner’s legs.

Why do trained dogs suddenly start peeing inside the home itself?

Health-related urinary issues in dogs can lead to urinating in the house — an infected bladder or urinary tract, bladder stones, kidney or liver disease.

Why do dogs’ ears turn red for no reason?

There may be an extra amount of wax or bugs that take up residence within the ear; resulting in inflammation and infection. Other causes could be a foreign body, like grass, which has entered the ear, ear mites, parasites, allergies, bacterial and yeast infections. If your pet is constantly rubbing or scratching the insides of his ears, and they appear red and irritated, yeast may be the culprit. Most often, the yeast you see, or smell, is a sign of allergies due to rice, barley, wheat, corn or any of the grains in his food. A warm compress applied to the dog’s ear several times can reduce redness, pain, irritation and inflammation.

Long-eared dogs, especially dogs used in field sports, or those that are short-legged and closer to the ground, can attract foxtails or other burrs to their ears. Dog’s ears, with a lot of hair in the ear canal, can trap moisture. Place cotton balls in your dog’s ears before bathing to prevent moisture-related irritation or infection. Allergies to fleas and mites can cause itchy, unhealthy skin, and a rusty, red-brown ear discharge, which causes the dog to scratch at his ear canal and inner ear flap.

Mites are generally a problem for young puppies, but older dogs can contract them through physical contact with infected animals. Mite infections are treated with ear drops for five to six weeks. If you notice that your dog is getting red ears accompanied with discomfort, the best thing that you can do is to inspect the ear yourself. Sometimes, if there is a foreign body present, you may be able to remove the irritant yourself. It is vital to remember that ears are extremely sensitive.

Never stick a Q-tip down inside the canal in order to try to remove an object or excess fluid; this action can cause serious damage to the eardrum. If you notice that your dog needs to have his ears cleaned, you can either clean them at home or go to a vet.

Do dogs watch television ?

When it comes to colour, television is no different from reality for a dog. They have dichromatic vision, which means they see the world through the range of two primary colours, yellow and blue. Cone cells in canine eyes are also believed to blur their sight to a degree. More importantly, dogs process the frame rate, or “flicker fusion frequency,” of screens differently than people.

If they’re looking at an older television, it might resemble a flip book or even a strobe light effect to them. Modern sets have a faster frame rate, which is why dogs might be more interested in your high-definition television. Typically, dogs will react to the same things that would draw their attention in a room — barking, squeaking toys, or commands.

In a study published in Animal Cognition in 2013, nine dogs were observed to see if they could pick out the face of another dog — regardless of breed — on a computer screen instead of another animal or a person. The dogs were rewarded with treats with a successful choice. Though the sample size was small, it indicated dogs can recognise other dogs on a screen.

If your dogs used to get excited by another dog on television, but has since lost interest, it’s possible they simply became desensitised to their appearance, realising the image in front of them isn’t going to move out of the boundaries of the monitor. Content unrelated to dogs might not be of much interest.

In a 2017 study, published in the International Journal of Human-Computer Studies, dogs presented with three different viewing screens didn’t exhibit any particular preference for one over the other. If they were shown three screens at one time, they seemed uninterested in watching anything at all. The study also noted that dogs had a limited television attention span. But that behaviour could also be breed-specific. Dogs bred for hunting might be interested in moving objects, while dogs that rely more on smell might be indifferent.

What should I do if my dog is not showing any sign of whelping even after 65-70 days of mating?

Usually, if a dog reaches the 65-70 day mark, it’s time to seek a medical professional. A dog who isn’t delivering puppies may just be late with no real cause for concern, but sometimes a delayed labour can indicate trouble.

Some common reasons why a dog hasn’t delivered include stillborn or nearly dead puppies or maternal distress. Difficulty birthing is known as dystocia and is usually treated with either a calcium or oxytocin injection, or delivery by C-section.

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