"Purr-fect Pet Parenting: Tips, Advice"
FBS TALKIES SEASON 1 EPISODE 4 | Tackling Fever...
Welcome Back to FBS Talkies, an interactive show where experts have very insightful conversations about various pet-related issues with the Co-founder of Fur Ball Story and Animal Behaviourist, Animesh Katiyar. This...
FBS TALKIES SEASON 1 EPISODE 4 | Tackling Fever...
Welcome Back to FBS Talkies, an interactive show where experts have very insightful conversations about various pet-related issues with the Co-founder of Fur Ball Story and Animal Behaviourist, Animesh Katiyar. This week we had Dr. Shelly Mattoo Jalali, the founder of SJS Pet Care & Clinic, and an expert Vet. She holds 15 years of experience and an ocean of knowledge in this field. The episode was filled with amusing facts and incidents that made us think twice about our actions. What are the symptoms of fever? Finding the cause of your dog’s sluggish behavior may be difficult for you as a pet parent. Dr. Shelly made the observation that a typical sign of fever in animals is lethargy. The expert expressed concern, stating that many pet parents don’t realize their little ball of joy is unwell, which is why they have been so worn out. They mistakenly think of it as “me time.” This widespread perception is particularly prevalent with new pet owners. In addition to being sluggish, other signs of fever in animals include: ● Unusual behavior● Reduced intake of food or loss of appetite● Body ache● Tail is downward● High body temperature● Sitting alone in a corner Fever is also indicated by a dry nose and hot ears, but these symptoms may also simply be brought on by a warm atmosphere. Therefore, as soon as you observe one of these two symptoms, check your dog’s temperature. How to check fever in pets? With that in mind, Dr. Shelly and our host discussed how some pet owners are hesitant about the method of checking. Unfortunately, there is no alternative; you must lubricate the thermometer’s tip and place it in your dog’s butt. But don’t worry; they probably won’t even notice. Which temperature is dangerous for dogs? Knowing whether the fever is deadly or not is important after diagnosis. Dogs’ typical body temperatures range from 101 to 102.5 degrees; 103 is the trigger point, but if the temperature is 106 degrees or higher, you must administer first aid and rush straight to the vet clinic. If a fever of 106 or higher is not treated right away, it might be fatal. You can apply a wet cloth (dipped in regular water) to the paws or rub alcohol behind the ears or to the foot pads to reduce body temperature. What is the mistake that pet owners make? It is self-treatment. Animesh Katiyar, our host of FBS Talkies, revealed an instance in which he witnessed a pet owner giving human medications to their pet. Dr. Shelly then revealed a fact that left the audience in disbelief. Did you know that feeding your pet human medications might kill them or harm their liver and kidneys? How to cure fever in pets? Giving human medicines without consulting a vet might have serious side effects and possibly result in their death. However, you can opt for alternative medications such as herbal ayurvedic medicines like Fev Pet. It is made with Papaya, Giloy, Turmeric, and Kalmegh. These herbs help in relieving the pain and bringing the temperature down. As the episode moved ahead, Dr. Shelly shared how pet parents are scared of allopathic treatment and pressurizes for the herbal treatment. But it is important to understand that there is no remedy that fits all. You have to switch to alternatives according to the need and situation. Concluding Note At the end of the episode, Dr. Shelly talked about her journey as a female vet. She shared that in her experience, she had interacted with a lot of women who were taking care of the animals and she encouraged the future generation to opt for this noble career option. That’s it for this episode! We hope you liked it and it was fruitful for you. Stay tuned to our channel and social media handles to get more information on pet-related topics.
FBS Talkies Season 1 Episode 1: About Animal We...
FBS Talkies is a talk show presented by Fur Ball Story. It’s a series of episodes where various pet-related issues are discussed with some highly reputed animal welfare workers, veterinary doctors...
FBS Talkies Season 1 Episode 1: About Animal We...
FBS Talkies is a talk show presented by Fur Ball Story. It’s a series of episodes where various pet-related issues are discussed with some highly reputed animal welfare workers, veterinary doctors & trainers. For the first episode of FBS Talkies, we had Ms. Aavritee Naithani as our guest speaker. She runs a welfare center dedicated to animals called Sanjay Gandhi Animal Care Center (SGACC), New Delhi. The chat between Aavritee and our Co-Founder, Animesh Katiyar, was very productive and insightful. Multiple issues related to the life of a rescuer, how to rescue any animal, and doctors at the welfare center, were discussed. Moreover, some general behavioral issues that any pet faces and the steps to rectify them were talked about. About Our Guest Ms. Aavritee is a lawyer by profession and started working for animal welfare during 4th year of her college. Her shelter (SGACC) is the only animal care shelter in Delhi-NCR which is dedicated to all animals. As of now, it’s home to over 2500 animals ranging from dogs, cats, equines, cattle, other injured wildlife, and many more. The role of an animal shelter consultant and manager is a highly taxing one. SGACC, without any discrimination, is a haven for every animal who needs a home and especially those who require medical care and treatment. Aavritee further explained her shelter’s daily routine. They rescue about 5-10 animals daily with the help of their self-owned, private, and government-run ambulances. They’re fully equipped to provide thorough care and treatment through their team of experienced vets and paramedics. Rights & Laws for Animal Welfare Workers The agenda of this video is to spread awareness among pet parents and welfare workers about their rights and laws and to be self-sufficient to tackle any situation. Upon asking about the same, Aavritee said that even before she became a lawyer, she educated herself about the basics of lodging an FIR and approaching police authorities to report cruelty acts. Further, she asserted that every animal lover must be aware of the “Prevention of Animal Cruelty Act” and have a copy of the interview she quoted, “One must be mentally prepared as there will be situations where you may have to sit in the police stations for hours to claim your rights and simultaneously educate the police personnel too, as not everyone is aware of these laws”. She continued to explain that one can report any gruesome act against an animal under Indian Penal Code (IPC) 428 & 429. Career Opportunities for Animal Welfare Workers The discussion then moved to a vea crucialstion that many seek an answer: “Is there a good and stable future in the career of a Shelter Manager/Animal Welfare Worker?”. Our guest responded in the affirmative saying that, if people like her, who have pursued professional courses and are well-educated, refuse to do anything for a social cause, then the whole point of education is a waste. Further, she informed that there are many organizations even of international recognition that provide steady careers as well as income for working towards such social causes. We got to know that there’s also a skill development program for ‘Animal Health Workers’ provided by the Indian Institute of Skill Development Training. It is a 6-month course related to the development of livestock and small animals. Anyone with a basic level of education can pursue this course. Life of Shelter Managers We then proceeded to learn more about the life of a shelter manager and what it entails. Aavritee revealed that being a shelter manager means facing continuous criticism, at every step. She stated that it was a continuous and thankless job. One must be mentally prepared for it”. There are two things to which she, as a shelter manager, gives the highest priority. First – is hygiene’, as half of the medical treatments go to waste if there’s no proper maintenance of hygiene and sanitation. Second – ‘Training’ of new people who want to join the movement as shelter workers or medical staff. She iterated that the job of a shelter manager involves a lot of multi-tasking, therefore, one must be resourceful as well as a problem solver. Throughout the conversation, Aavritee was extremely concerned about the brutality against dogs and stated that “Dogs, without being a reason for any financial or economic loss for anyone, are being unnecessarily tortured and tormented. There are multiple incidents of such unprovoked brutality happening all over our country. Their main concern is food, and that is what forces them to travel to different areas. If you cannot feed them, then at least don’t hate the ones who are”. She again informed us that the constitution has described a fundamental duty on citizens under article 51 AG, that they must be compassionate towards their environment and living beings. Understanding The Uncanny Behavior of Street Dogs The last question for the episode was indeed a very common one- “Why is it that whenever we take our pet dogs out for walks, the community dogs tend to follow and even if we want to rescue them sometimes, they avoid us with aggression?” Our Co-Founder, Mr. Animesh, gave quite insightful answer to this. He said, stray dogs are very territorial. Thus, at least for the initial days, the local dogs are unable to understand the reason behind the pet dog’s presence. So, they fear their resources being at risk. Animesh also added that pet parents should try to carry some food with them while heading out for a walk with their pets and feed them. This will eventually make the local dogs accept the pet and understand that it is not an enemy but a friend. He also added, when it comes to rescuing an anxious/aggressive dog, there are two approaches: First is emergency, in which we must, unfortunately, also use force just to save the life of the dog. Not everything in animal rescue/welfare is sunshine! The second approach is a rather evolving one. If it’s not an urgent case, we can also use herbal supplements to calm down the dog. To relax an anxious/stressed dog, a rescuer can give Ashwagandha-based tablets rather than melatonin, which can be dangerous if overdosed. Ashwagandha is a safer alternative and is scientifically proven to pacify an anxious/stressed dog. Social Media Bullying of Animal Welfare Workers The bonus question for this episode for our guest was related to social media bullying. To this, Aavritee answered that “Be it an animal welfare worker or a pet parent, who owns a pedigree dog, people tend to bully or comment on their social media posts without knowing the facts. Social media platforms are available to everyone and people sitting in one corner of the country comment on anything happening anywhere else, without verifying any facts. This culture should be alerted and eventually put an end to it. Many people and NGOs that are genuinely trying to do good work, suffer because of all this.” Subscribe to our YouTube channel for more such interesting episodes where we have discussed various issues related to pets with highly reputable veterinary doctors, trainers, and welfare workers.
Puppy Parenting Done Right: Learn About Puppies...
Puppies – the word itself brings joy and happiness to us. Everyone loves puppies, but pet parents often don’t realize that just loving puppies is not enough. We must understand...
Puppy Parenting Done Right: Learn About Puppies...
Puppies – the word itself brings joy and happiness to us. Everyone loves puppies, but pet parents often don’t realize that just loving puppies is not enough. We must understand them so that we are able enough to care for them properly. We must be able to make the most of this holy human and dog relationship. This article will give you an insight into the right way of raising a puppy and the benefits that you will reap in the future. What is the Right Age to Get a Puppy Home We all love pups – they are cute little bundles of joy. But do you know what is the right age for separating a pup from the mother and getting him home? The most common opinion in India about this is 30 to 45 days. This is not just a common opinion but a common practice too. Most of the breeders try to get rid of the puppies ASAP. However, the right age for separating a pup from the mother is a minimum of 8 weeks, i.e., 2 months. The perfect age, as per us, is between 10 – 12 weeks. The puppy needs to spend this time with the siblings and the mother as it teaches them a lot of social skills. To top it, the mother’s milk helps in boosting immunity. During the said period, the first round of vaccination must also be completed. Importance of Biting Instinct Bite instinct – sounds a bit too technical, but it’s not. Bite inhibition is the ability of a dog/puppy to understand different kinds of bites, i.e., play, love, and aggression. This ability is passed on to the puppy by the parents. The mother plays with them, scolds them, and loves them as well – all of it using her mouth. This teaches the puppy the power of biting. Bite inhibition is one of the most important skills that a puppy needs to learn to become a good dogizen. Unfortunately, this skill can’t be taught at a later stage by a human. Hence, coming back to our first point: puppies should not be separated from their mothers before the completion of this learning. Teething Related Issues Puppies love to BITE, at least that’s what all of us think. But that’s not the case. Puppy biting is called teething. It’s a phase that every puppy passes through. You must’ve observed that puppies love playing with everything they can find, and it becomes even better if it moves and is soft to chew. Naturally, your body becomes the first target, followed by the sofa, slippers, and the like, because they have your odor. In simple terms, teething is an unavoidable natural process. One can make the most of it by teaching the pup some techniques that involve adequate usage of his teething drive. Use just one soft and small toy, possibly a rope, to play with the pup. As soon as he seems tired, take the toy out of his sight. Don’t let the puppy get hold of it easily, else it wouldn’t be a fun activity. The trick is to tease the pup with the toy and make it interesting. They usually find our hands interesting during this stage because we react when they bite us. This reaction is what drives them more towards biting us again and again. So, we must learn to not react in such situations. As a result, it will become uninteresting for the dog thereby making the toy more interesting. Remember, don’t tease him with the toy more than 3 – 4 times. Let him win in the process. This sense of achievement will make the pup more inclined towards teething on the toy instead of you. How Puppies Learn All dogs learn through muscle memory and conditioning. The result of any stimulus that is inflicted upon a dog can either be rewarding or painful. The consequence decides whether a pup will repeat the behavior or not. 2 most common techniques to know here are Classical Conditioning and Operant Conditioning. These 2 methods combined will teach you the skill to master any kind of animal training. Remember, we often keep scolding our pups for things they do that we don’t like, but we hardly reward them for the things they do right. Such small rewards at the end of correct behavior will enable the dog to only learn the right kind of behaviors. Socialization Is Crucial When we talk about puppy socialization, the first thought that comes to our mind is that of puppies and dogs playing with each other. This is only partly true. Puppy socialization involves environmental socialization as well as socialization with humans of different age groups. A puppy can grasp the most till 8 months of age. If we positively attach the maximum number of stimuli to a dog in this duration, we will succeed in conditioning him to a majority of things in his surroundings, such as different kinds of noise and odors. Key Takeaway The adorable eyes of a puppy will plead in front of you for absolutely anything. They will look uber-cute running around and will melt your heart in seconds. But, don’t give in to the pressure. Take matters into your hands. Make them socialize with other puppies and humans, feed them well, and learn their gestures. If you are training them to learn the way you want them to behave, you must learn what they are trying to communicate as well. Be a good pet parent and make them an even better dogizen. Puppy Parenting FAQs 1. How can I raise my puppy in the best possible way? Start housetraining as soon as possible. Keep things calm. Establish a routine. Establish general guidelines & train your puppy to follow them. Create a private area for the puppy to relax in. At least for the first few nights, stay in the same room to sleep. Give them a nutritious, well-balanced diet food. 2. At what age are puppies the naughtiest? The reality is that raising a sociable, well-behaved, and trouble-free adult dog requires patience, hard work, and active engagement from every member of the household. Unwanted behaviors including unnecessary barking, chewing on things, surfing the counter, house-soiling, and leaping up frequently, start to happen at roughly 3 to 6 months of age. 3. Which stage of a puppy is the hardest? Adolescence (6 – 18 months) might be the most challenging stage in a puppy’s development. Your adorable puppy is growing up and starting to produce hormones, which could cause behavioral changes. 4. What is the duration of puppy blues? Puppy blues refer to the emotional stage where you start feeling sad, depressed, anxious, and pressured after getting a puppy home. Generally, this happens because puppy parents tend to feel overwhelmed as they feel the pressure from within, wanting to give the best life to the puppy and raise him well. According to anecdotal data, the three weeks immediately following the onset of puppy blues are typically when they are most severe. After then, symptoms could still be present but feel easier to control. Usually, this happens within three months. 5. How long does it take for a puppy and owner to become close? Puppies typically bond with their owners more quickly than adult dogs because they have fewer attachments to their histories with their previous owners. If you have purchased a puppy from a breeder, it typically takes 3 months to form a bond with your dog. 6. What indicates that your dog has your trust? In your presence, they exhibit comfortable and tranquil body language. A relaxed, lolling tongue and a slightly open mouth. Turning over to rub one’s stomach to make them feel safe. Face with a calm, relaxed look. Eye blinking Tail wagging in both directions. A “bow” to welcome and promote the play. 7. What does nervousness in a dog look like? Anxious actions while you’re away or as you get ready to depart, such as pacing, whining, shivering, howling, or barking too much. They may also display loving behavior to attract your attention. You might also get to see destructive behaviors, especially near doors or windows, including chewing or digging. accidents involving urinating or defecating inside the home.
Monsoon Care Guide for Pet Parents
Explore tips and tricks on Monsoon care guide for pet parents that will help you keep a tab on your dog’s health this monsoon.
Monsoon Care Guide for Pet Parents
Monsoon is a season to enjoy and a reason to celebrate, as it brings the much-needed relief from scorching heat. However, with the pleasant weather, it brings along a new set of challenges for our pooches that are a result of high humidity, such as skin infections and ticks in dogs. It then becomes our utmost responsibility to make sure that our furry friends are healthy and ensure they don’t fall ill. Below are some general tips and tricks that will help you keep a tab on your dog’s health this monsoon. Rain Checks First and foremost, it’s important to use the appropriate rain gear. A proper rain gear includes a raincoat and a pair of waterproof shoes. Before and after daily walks & outdoor playtime, it’s important to pat dry your pooch’s fur with a towel. The high moisture in the weather could be harmful for your dog’s fur and skin. To avoid skin allergies, it becomes essential to keep your dog’s fur as dry as possible to avoid any fungal or bacterial skin problems. There are multiple anti-fungal creams in the market that may help your dog fight bacterial and fungal skin allergies. Eczo Pet is one of the few anti-fungal and anti-bacterial creams which can help eliminate all kinds of microbial infections that your dog may catch in this season. Enriched with Ayurvedic properties, it is safe for dogs of all age groups and does not have any side effect on ingestion. Maintain Hygiene It’s important to make sure that your pet’s utensils are cleaned regularly. Also, their water bowls must be replenished with fresh water frequently. Give them only purified or boiled and cooled water to drink. This will help avoid any water borne infections or stomach issues. Monsoon season is accompanied by a whole lot of bugs, bacteria, and worms. So, it’s super important to maintain proper hygiene to keep all these at bay. Nutritious Diet A diet including fiber rich fruits and vegetables, protein and carbohydrates is essential for good digestion and proper bowel moments. Keep a check on any food allergies that your pet may have. It’s always suggested to add supplements like Omega 3, 6 and Minerals to your pooch’s diet to ensure an all-around development. You can also consult with your vet regarding the supplements that must be added to your pooch’s diet. Exercise at Home If your pooch is not able to go out for walks and other outdoor activities due to rain and water logging, increase their indoor activities to ensure regular exercise. You can exercise your dog indoors by running up and down the stairs or playing fetch with them. To prevent problems like ‘Obesity’, the daily food intake of your dog must align with the level of activity that they indulge in throughout the day. When a dog goes for a walk outside, he also gets mental stimulation as his smell buds are always at work. But when confined to the home setup, this mental stimulation is absent. To make up for this indoors, you can hide his treats, toys and food in multiple areas of the house so that his sense of smell is activated. This mental activity is crucial for your dog’s overall well-being. Regular Grooming During this season, regular grooming sessions hold equal importance. The humid weather can mean a damp coat and moist ears for your furry friend and that is not a good idea. To prevent infections, it’s important to keep their ears dry and get rid of any wax build-up, regularly. After every outdoor activity session or bath, devote some time towards drying their ears, especially for dogs who have long and flappy ones. Eliminate Ticks and Fleas Parasites like ticks and fleas become more prevalent in warm and humid weather, and these pests can cause different life-threatening infections. So, it’s essential to keep your dog’s sleeping area tidy. Change your dog’s bedding frequently to avoid any chances of pest infestations. Additionally, tick sprays and powders are ideal for killing and deterring these pests. One such formula has been perfected in the form of FBS’s Tick Free, which works both as a preventive as well as curative medicine, against ticks in dogs. Simply apply on the tick-site or may spray it on paws, belly, and pits to prevent ticks in dogs from spreading. Vaccination & checkups The risk of respiratory infections or worm-related illnesses increases during the monsoon season. Get a vaccination schedule planned with your veterinarian. Make sure that you follow up with your vet and do not skip any vaccine shot to ensure that your pooch receives appropriate vaccinations and deworming tablets, based on their vaccination schedules. Key Takeaway The monsoon brings a much-needed respite from the soaring heat and eliminates majority pollutants from the environment. This makes it the perfect time for pet parents all over the country to spend more time outdoors with their fur balls. However, we must take extra precautions to keep our pooch clean and healthy throughout this season. Taking care of our pooches in this rainy season depends majorly on a dog’s lifestyle, general preferences and especially their age. Moreover, check out Rainy Remedies – Monsoon Care Kit for Dogs is the ultimate solution to all the monsoon problems in dogs. Order now! FAQs: Monsoon Care Guide for Pet Parents How do you take care of pets during monsoon? Keep your pet’s fur dry. Fungal infections on the paws and other locations can be avoided with the aid of powders with anti-fungal characteristics. Additionally, you’ll need to temporarily convert to a waterless dog shampoo. A doggo raincoat is a fantastic method to keep them safe and allow them to enjoy the rain. What should a dog eat during the rainy season? Give your pet a healthy, balanced diet that includes chicken or lamb (chicken breast, thigh, and leg are all acceptable cuts of chicken), rice, sweet potatoes (cooked & in moderation), carrots, peas, eggs, fat, and fish oil. Wet food should be provided to dogs because it is healthier and should be devoid of soy, maize, and wheat. Can dogs get wet in the rain without becoming sick? Many veterinarians advise against taking your pets for walks during periods of intense rain. Sometimes, thunder and lightning might frighten them, causing them to flee in fear. Instead, take only brief restroom breaks. Allowing your dogs to get wet in the rain is safe because some dogs enjoy taking showers in the water and would undoubtedly appreciate the rain. Instead of leaving them in your building’s compound or terrace, please stick to your balcony. What are the measures to take care for a dog during monsoon? Ensure that your dog lives in a clean and safe environment Always keep freshwater available Feed a quality diet to avoid obesity Get a vet checkup for your pet on a regular basis Give plenty of opportunities to exercise Develop a relationship with your dog by interacting with him or her Ensure that your dog knows how to obey simple commands Dental hygiene is crucial Grooming and nail trimming is very important Is rainy season good for dogs? Being furry animals, dogs and cats may experience wet or damp fur during the rainy season. On rainy days, it’s crucial to keep their fur dry and keep them warm to protect them from cold and bacterial or fungal illnesses. Do dogs shed hair in monsoon? Although, it’s more likely that the shedding is seasonal, it could be an indication of something more serious. It’s crucial to make an appointment with your dog’s veterinarian if there is excessive hair found throughout the house. How often should I bathe my dog during rainy season? In general, a healthy dog with short, smooth hair and no skin issues doesn’t require frequent bathing. Nevertheless, giving your dog a wash at least once every month is an excellent idea.
A Therapy Dog
As the founder of Fur Ball Story, people often ask me what exactly do we do, what are therapy dogs, and what is this Animal Assisted Therapy? Before I tell them what...
A Therapy Dog
As the founder of Fur Ball Story, people often ask me what exactly do we do, what are therapy dogs, and what is this Animal Assisted Therapy? Before I tell them what it is, I felt a need to tell them what it’s not, by giving a real-life example of course. So, after I started Fur Ball Story and started making a name for ourselves, a couple of other people started following the same road. In one of the instances, I saw one organization which was conducting a program for increasing sensitivity towards animals in a school with various sort of animals such as birds, dogs, guinea pigs, and rabbits, only one problem with this – students were made to stand in a line and the interaction was a bit transactional as the animals were in their respective crates. Some people’s opinion is that this is a good concept, no harm in making kids look at animals in crates but makes no mistake that this is not an Animal Assisted Activity.What Fur Ball Story does is different from this is many ways but allow me to highlight two important aspects that of the above example which we should be wary of. The animals in the cage were being tortured because a therapy animal needs to be trained and socialized. They also need to be desensitized towards touch, loud noises, big crowds, new spaces, other animals. A trained therapy animal would not need to be caged. Allowing kids to interact with caged animals will lead to normalization of such a trend hence leading to more animal cruelty cases in the future. Kids being of impressionable age should stay away from such activities; on the other hand, legitimate Animal Assisted Therapy will help them understand empathy, responsibility and promotes sensitivity towards animals. Now, the dogs at Fur Ball Story, have been raised to cater as therapy animals. They love humans as well as fellow dogs. They love it when people pet them and give them belly rubs. How, you ask? This is because when we choose a puppy, we conduct thorough background checks of the breeders/family, genetic history –to ensure his previous generations were absolutely and blindly loved by humans, and their temperament towards other animals is neutral. By doing this, we make sure that our dogs will always have full trust on everyone they meet. Thereafter, we train abiding by the basics of socialization and desensitize them towards various stimuli which might throw off an untrained dog. As the owner of FBS, I am personally responsible for the wellbeing of all my dogs and my staff is handpicked for their skills in training and their love for dogs. To put it in simple words, if my dogs did not like what they’re doing, then my work would make no sense. If you are interested, I am appending links to some articles corroborating the points I have made above.
The Laws of Pet Parenting
This blog explains the legal rights and responsibilities of pet owners and stray dog caregivers in India, while addressing common misconceptions about pet ownership and RWA regulations. It highlights Animal...
The Laws of Pet Parenting
Hello human beings,Hope you all are good, and all your pets are wagging their tails with joy.As an advocate fighting for the legal rights of animals, I come across many people having misconceptions and misled views about pet ownership legality and the legal rights of care givers of stray dogs. Today I’d like to share a legal opinion to shed some light on these topics and hopefully clear such misconceptions. As the number of people keeping dogs as household companions is increasing and as animal lovers are increasingly showing compassion for street dogs by feeding them and providing veterinary and other support, conflicts may sometimes occur between the care givers of dogs and Resident Welfare Association. Our country endorses the virtues of ahimsa and non-violence. These doctrines have always enabled people to peacefully co-exist with animals. Moreover, the duty to show compassion to all living creatures is a Fundamental Duty cast by Article 51A of the constitution upon all citizens of this country; and the law of land protects the rights of non-humans. All points of view deserve consideration, and everybody is equal in the eyes of law. The solution therefore lies in recognizing that, and teaching differing points of view, and differing lifestyles with respect. The guidelines issued by Animal Welfare Board of India aims at achieving the same. As per the guidelines, pet owners rightly consider their pets as family members. A pet is akin to a perennial toddler and therefore deserves the same attention throughout its life as that reserved for a human toddler during infancy. However, pet owners are advised to ensure that their pets are not a source of nuisance to others. In doing so, they may, however, distinguish between reasonable and unreasonable, lawful and unlawful claims as to their pets being a source of nuisance; and no amount of pressure should lead to abandonment of a pet animal. Doing so, is a violation of law. Imagine the plight of a pet who has always lived inside a house and was dependent on its owner for food and shelter. And now, roaming on busy roads, alone, and in fear of being bitten or mauled by other stray dogs. In our society most of the people (non-dog lovers) consider barking as a nuisance. However, barking is a natural form of expression for a dog and must and has to be tolerated in a society. However, continuous barking can disturb neighbours. Hence, in the AWBI guidelines, pet owners are advised to make every effort to keep their dogs quiet, particularly during night hours. But that doesn’t mean neighbours can force or pressure dog owners in any way to abandon the pets. As per the guidelines, pet owners are also advised to ensure that their pets are healthy, vaccinated, and clean. Adequate healthcare and regular vaccinations need to be ensured. Sterilization is advised as our country has excessive dog population. Leashing of pets in public places is also advisable. Leashing of dogs assures passer-by that they are safe and makes them more comfortable when walking in the vicinity of an owner with his pet dog on a leash. Leashing also ensures the safety of the pet from being run over by vehicles on streets, or worse shall, being the cause of accidents. Nowadays, people get their dogs trained for walking on leash and the dogs do so on the streets, but other passer-by may not feel comfortable and don’t know about the fact that the dog is trained to do so. Hence, conflicts arise. Even the canines used and trained by police and bomb squad never walk unleashed. However, RWA and other associations cannot insist on the use of muzzle. Please do remember, the law already provides for penalties for negligent pet owners, which the aggrieved party can avail of. I come across multiple complaints against RWAs or other associations that dogs and their owners get debarred from using elevators etc. whereas as per the guidelines you cannot be debarred by these associations from the use of lifts or elevators for your dogs, pet owners are also advised to use alternate lifts or elevators if there is more than one working lifts in a building. Please bear in mind that even by obtaining consensus, or even if most of the residences and occupiers want it, RWA and other association cannot legally introduce any sort of ban on the keeping of pet dogs. They cannot insist that small sized dogs are acceptable and large sized dogs are not. They cannot cite dog barking as a valid and compelling reason for any proposed ban or restriction. Further, in the guidelines it is also advised that pet owners either clean up when the pet defecates in public premises or participate in other solution for maintaining cleanliness. Such civic sense is the need of the hour in our country, and it is also courtesy to other users of public spaces. Pet owners are also advised to take the initiative to discuss with their RWA’s ways and means to dispose of pet excreta. For example, pet corners can be designated, in which pets can be trained or encouraged to relieve themselves; and a corner of the complex/park can be designated as area where pet excreta can be collected and deposited and composted, using sawdust, etc. Such behaviour may generate positivity and greater acceptability of pet dogs and even street dogs. However, it is clarified that it is for each residential community and complex to decide which method works best for them, and solutions cannot be imposed on anybody. I get multiple cases in which RWA imposed fines on pet owners and care givers for pet defecation in public premises, I want to make it very clear that it is illegal. There should be co-operation between RWA and pet owners. If the residence or occupiers that have pets are not violating any municipal or other laws, it is not permissible for RWA or other association to object to their having pets as companions. The general body cannot frame bye laws or amend them in a manner that is at variance with the laws of the country. Even by complete majority, a general majority cannot adopt an illegality. Responsible pet parenting resources Pet owners and animal lovers can also explore additional responsible pet parenting resources available at Fur Ball Story to learn more about pet wellness, nutrition, grooming, and everyday pet care. FAQs 1. Can a Resident Welfare Association (RWA) ban residents from keeping pet dogs?No. An RWA cannot legally impose a blanket ban on keeping pet dogs, regardless of the breed or size of the dog. 2. Is feeding stray dogs legal in residential areas?Yes. Feeding stray dogs is legal, provided it is done responsibly and without causing inconvenience to other residents. Caregivers also have rights protected under animal welfare laws.3. Can an RWA stop pet owners from using lifts or common areas?No. Pet owners cannot be denied access to lifts, elevators, or common areas solely because they own a pet. However, owners are encouraged to be considerate of other residents.4. Can an RWA impose fines if a pet defecates in a common area?RWAs may encourage cleanliness, but arbitrary fines imposed on pet owners without legal authority are not valid. Pet owners should responsibly clean up after their pets.5. What responsibilities do pet owners have under animal welfare guidelines?Pet owners should ensure their pets are vaccinated, healthy, properly groomed, leashed in public spaces, and do not become a source of avoidable nuisance to others while also ensuring their pets are never abandoned.
Tackling Dog Obesity: A Guide to Weight Management
This blog provides effective tips for Tackling Dog Obesity: A Guide to Weight Management
Tackling Dog Obesity: A Guide to Weight Management
The prevalence of obesity in dogs has turned out to be a growing concern for pet owners. Just like us, excessive weight in our pets can induce numerous health issues and reduce the quality of life. As responsible pet parents, it is important to know the possible causes, potential risks, and mindful strategies for managing obesity in dogs. This blog provides effective tips for Tackling Dog Obesity: A Guide to Weight Management in your beloved pet. Ideal Weight in Different Breeds Breed Weight of Male Weight of Female Beagle Around 9 kg Around 9 kgs Boxers 29 – 36 kg 23 – 30 kg Bull Dog Upto 22 kg Upto 18 kg Chihuahua Upto 2.5 kgs Upto 2.5 kgs Doberman Pinscher 35 – 45 kg 27 – 40 kg German Shephard 29 – 40 kg 22 – 31 kg Golden Retriever 29 – 34 kg 24 – 29 kg Harrier 20 – 27 kg 20 – 27 kg Labrador Retriever 29 – 36 kg 24 – 31 kg Mastiff 72-104 kg 54 – 77 kg Pug 6 – 8 kg 6 – 8 kg Rottweiler 43 – 61 kg 36 – 45 kg Shih Tzu 4 – 7 kg 4 – 7 kg Siberian Husky 20 – 27 kg 15 – 22 kg St. Bernards 63 – 81 kg 54 – 63 kg Source: Akc.org Health Problems If you can easily feel your dog’s ribs and chest perfectly covering his waist, it implies an ideal body structure. However, if his ribs cannot be felt due to a thick layer of fat or more tummy is visible, it might imply that your dog is overweight and needs a vet’s consultation. Obesity can bring in multiple health risks as listed below: Diabetes Obese dogs develop Diabetes Mellitus causing symptoms like increased consumption of water, frequent urination, altered appetite, urinary infections, vomiting, low energy, and eye problems. Heart Disease Obesity strains the heart which leads to cardiovascular conditions such as heart failure and high blood pressure. Excess fat building up can clog the arteries and result in a heart attack. Joint Problems Excessive weight exerts pressure on joints, which reduces mobility and leads to arthritis. It increases the risk of joint damage and subsequent osteoarthritis causing inflammation and chronic pain. Reduced Lifespan As per the University of Liverpool, obesity adversely affects your dog by reducing his chances of survival. Allowing your pet to eat too much and not get enough exercise shortens your dog’s lifespan by 2 years. Respiratory Issues Excess weight can lead to Asthma and impaired breathing. It contributes to respiratory problems like laryngeal paralysis, collapsed trachea, and narrow airways causing sleeplessness and snoring. Identify the Cause Understanding the root causes of dog obesity is essential to effectively curb the issue. Check out the possible causes below: Overfeeding Overfeeding is the biggest contributor to weight gain. Some of the common sins of overfeeding are digestive issues, gastric problems, loose stools, abdominal discomfort, skin disorders, moulting, and lethargy. Try Woofers Wellness Kit now! Genetic Factors Certain breeds are more prone to obesity due to genetic factors. These breeds include Pugs, Beagles and Golden Retrievers, English Springer Spaniels, Border Terriers and Labrador Retrievers, Chihuahuas, German shepherds, and Shih Tzu. Parents of these pet breeds need to be more mindful of their diets and exercise routine. Lack Of Exercise Insufficient physical activity restricts dogs from burning calories, which leads to obesity. Outside activities like walking, running, swimming, or hiking can be a great way out since dogs love such activities. Sufficient exercising even reduces anxiety problems, excessive licking, barking, chewing, digging, etc. Age & Neutering Older dogs and neutered/spayed canines have a higher risk of weight gain. Irrespective of gender, weight management must be focused on after your pet is neutered. Moreover, older dogs are likely to be obese because of decreased activity, energy levels, caloric needs, and lower metabolism rates. Medical Conditions Underlying medical conditions like hypothyroidism, insulinoma, hyperadrenocorticism or Cushing’s disease, reproductive disorders, and genetic syndromes contribute to obesity in dogs. Weight Management Plan ✅ Balanced Diet Provide high-quality, low-calorie dog food, limit treats, or opt for healthier alternatives. Feed your pooch his normal food in the morning but replace his second meal with cucumbers and buttermilk, and a multi-vitamin diet in the evening. Switching to healthier options will help you get visible results. Try Now- Complete Canine Health. ✅ Portion Control Measure and regulate your dog’s food intake to avoid overfeeding. Measure out the appropriate portion of each meal using a kitchen scale. Track the food portions and monitor your dog’s weight to make alterations in the diet accordingly. ✅ Regular Exercise Engage your pooch in daily physical activities such as walks, playtime, and interactive games to burn calories and stimulate them mentally. Likewise, running. Swimming, treadmill training, and similar activities are among the effective weight loss strategies. ✅ Behavior Enrichment Provide mental stimulants such as toys, puzzles, and activities to prevent boredom-related overeating. Aiming for steady progress is a holistic way to lose weight and inculcate good habits for the long run. Try Calm Pet – The Behaviour Modifier. ✅ Consult Veterinarian Seek professional advice to strategize your dog’s weight management plan and discuss tailored nutritional monitoring. With all the follow-up consultations and veterinary supervision, it becomes easier and more reliable to make progress. ✅ Patience & Consistency Weight loss is a slow process that requires you to be patient as well as consistent. Ensure gradual weight loss so that you are not being too harsh on your pet. Resist the temptation to indulge your dog excessively and create a healthy lifestyle for them. Key Takeaway Dog obesity is a serious health concern that demands the attention of pet owners. By understanding the risks, identifying the causes, and implementing effective weight management strategies, you can help your furry friends live longer and happier. So let’s keep our pooches fit, active, and full of vitality for years to come. Hope we could help you in Tackling Dog Obesity: A Guide to Weight Management.