Responsible pet ownership is key to our values at Blackwater vets and we are absolutely committed to helping and supporting you not only with your dog’s physical health but also their mental wellbeing.

Here is some useful dog information;

• It is a legal requirement for all dogs to be microchipped and registered to an owner from 8 weeks of age.
• The Control of Dogs Order 1992 mandates that any dog in a public place must wear a collar with the name and address [including postcode] of the owner engraved or written on it.
• Drivers can now face fines of up to £2,500 for having an unrestrained pet in a vehicle. Rule 57 of the Highway Code states When in a vehicle make sure dogs or other animals are suitable restrained so they cannot distract you while you are driving or injure you, or themselves, if you stop quickly. A seat belt harness, pet carrier, dog cage or dog guard are ways of restraining animals in cars. 
• Dog Etiquette requests that if you see another dog on a lead, you should also put your dog on a lead. There are lots of reasons why a dog may be kept on lead; it may be frightened or aggressive around other dogs or be unwell, recovering from surgery or have hearing or sight problems. Please always put any dogs running free back on the lead should you see another on lead dog.
• Whilst historically dogs have worn leads attached to collars, increasingly there is evidence to suggest that pulling on a dog’s neck is stressful for them and may restrict their breathing or even cause physical injury. Thankfully there is now a huge choice of harnesses available to avoid putting pressure on necks. However, do be careful that the harness cannot pull over your dog’s head or if in doubt use a double ended lead and attach one end to the collar just in case you need it.
• Whilst ball throwing or other high impact games are great fun did you know that these games can put huge stress on your pet’s joints which can lead to pain and arthritis in later years? We also know that high adrenalin games can lead to dogs exhibiting behaviour problems after they become over excited. Instead encourage brain games with your dogs. There are some amazing ideas on mental enrichment in our behaviour section.
• Sniffing is so important for a dog’s mental wellbeing. Through sniffing they communicate and also gather lots of information. The other benefit of sniffing is that it is mentally tiring for your dog so whilst you are out on your daily walks, LET THEM SNIFF
• Whilst different breeds of dogs have different exercise requirements it is really important that all dogs get physical exercise and mental stimulation. Sadly, the 2020 PAW PDSA Animal Wellbeing report revealed that around 4.3 million dogs [42%] are walked for less than 30 minutes a day and 13% of dogs don’t even get walked daily. Most dogs need a minimum of 30 minutes exercise twice a day. If you would like to read this report there is more information here; https://www.pdsa.org.uk/what-we-do/pdsa-animal-wellbeing-report
• Did you know that it is estimated that one in five dogs suffers with painful arthritis? Thankfully we can offer lots of advice on managing the environment, exercise management and also offer Physiotherapy and Laser services at our clinic. We are also strong advocates for ensuring pets are kept pain free so please don’t hesitate in contacting us if you feel you pet is showing any signs of slowing down or stiffness.
• Did you know that dog training is not regulated? Anyone can set up business as a dog trainer, even if they have no qualifications and are using out dated and aversive techniques which it has been scientifically proven to be ineffective. Please take a look at our Dog Behaviour Advice section for more information.