General

Hair - Long haired dogs should be brushed regularly and hair matts or burrs removed by brushing or by being carefully cut off, as matted hair can encourage skin disease and is a habitat for parasites like ticks and fleas. Bathing If a dog needs to be bathed (as opposed to dipping) use lukewarm water and a special animal shampoo. Human shampoos, dishwashing liquids etc are not suitable.

Eyes - If eyes get ‘gummy’ or weepy clean carefully with damp cotton wool. If the condition persists or is serious, see your vet. Dogs’ eyes should be checked at an annual vet visit.

Teeth - Teeth should be regularly inspected by your vet as dogs are prone to dental disease caused by plaque bacteria. Allowing your dog to chew on suitable bones can help to keep teeth healthy.

Ears - Dogs with drooping ears and long hair in the ears are prone to ear infections and infestation in the ear by ticks and fleas. The hair around the ears should be carefully trimmed and ears inspected regularly. Shaking of the head, excessive scratching of the ears or any discharge could mean an ear infection and should be checked by your vet.

Exercise and Stimulation - One of your duties as a dog owner is to ensure that your pet gets enough exercise and stimulation. Dogs are sociable animals and love to play.

Nutrition

Dogs require a balanced diet, including protein, carbohydrates, fibre and vitamins and minerals. Reputable commercial dog foods will have all these in a suitable balance. If you are feeding your dog on meat it is essential to add vegetables and carbohydrates in the form of potatoes, rice or noodles. Dry meals or pellets are good for the dog’s teeth, but it is important to allow access to plenty of water, or they could cause constipation.

Fivet carries the MONTEGO range of pet-foods, which is scientifically balanced to meet your pet’s nutritional needs. The range includes specific feeds for puppies, adults and ‘senior’ dogs.

Parasites (See Worms of Dogs, Ticks on Dogs and Flea Control in Dogs)

Parasites cause a danger to dogs and humans. Ticks and fleas transmit disease and tapeworm and internal parasites of dogs can infect humans. Dogs should be dipped and dewormed regularly.

Vaccinations

RABIES – Rabies vaccinations are required by law and all dogs must be vaccinated at 3 months, 1 year and every 3 years thereafter. (DEFENSOR 3 10 D) 
Dogs should also be vaccinated against distemper, hepatitis, leptospirosis, parvovirus and parainfluenza. (See Vaccinations of Dogs and Cats) 
Vanguard Plus 5 protects against canine distemper (adenovirus type 2) canine parainfluenza and canine parvoviral enteritis. 
Vanguard Plus CPV protects against canine distemper (adenovirus type 2) canine parainfluenza, canine parvoviral enteritis and canine coronaviral enteritis.