I spotted a few things in the news or on the net today that I thought might be of interest to dog lovers. Firstly, a story about a dog who was savaged by a deer. No that shouldn't be the other way round. Okay - some would argue it should be the other way round, but it isn't. Apparently the deer in question has "fangs" as it is Chinese water deer. Years ago some of these deer escaped from a safari park, and they, or their descendents, are now living wild
in deepest darkest Bedfordshire in the UK. I know it sounds like an April Fool joke, but it isn't. Actually it sounds like a serious and growing problem. One vet in the area has treated six dogs with injuries inflicted by these deer.
A true gem came my way from the Upper Valley Humane Society in Enfield, New Hampshire, USA. We know that one of the key factors to raising well balanced happy healthy dogs is socialisation. Well the humane society has guidelines on its site called The Puppy's Rule of Twelve. Any lucky pup that gets as thorough grounding as this is going to be one chilled out adult dog. I love it. If only every puppy owner could be given this guide with their puppy there would be a lot more happy dogs in the world.
One of my hobbyhorses or soapboxes if you prefer is the subject of dogs having access to more places. They do it in France so why not elsewhere? Wales in the UK is making a step in the right direction, as Cadw, their historic monument agency is opening seventeen sites to dogs. This is in response to requests from owners to do so. I hope now that visitors with dogs ensure their dogs behave well and that they clear up after them. If the venture goes well it will be extended to more sites.
Take care,
Julie x