Stephanie Bayliss

A nation of dog lovers?



Here in the UK, we like to think of ourselves as a nation of dog
lovers. But according to a study commissioned by the Dogs Trust
Charity, local authorities kill 150 stray dogs every week in the
UK because their owners cannot be traced or a new home can't be
found.



As dog lovers, what can we do to make a difference and prevent
this from happening? It seems like such a huge feat to overcome
such a massive number, but we can make a difference; perhaps
just a small difference, but it all counts.



According to the Dogs Trust, the most effective way of reducing
these numbers is through the use of neutering and micro chipping.



Neutering



Neutering is an extremely common procedure that your vet will
carry out under general anaesthetic. In the majority of cases,
your dog will be ready to come home with you on the same day and
will be fully recovered within a few weeks.



Many of the dogs picked up as strays by Local Authorities are
un-neutered males. Often, they will pick up on the scent of an
in-season bitch, and they will escape to try and find her.
Bitches may also be frustrated when in season and will look to
find a mate.



Neutering can also have a positive effect on the health and well
being of your much-loved pooch. Un-neutered females can suffer
from mammary tumors and an infection of the womb, called a
Pyometra. Both of these can, at best, be costly to treat, and at
worst can be fatal. Un-neutered males are at risk of developing
Testicular cancer. Neutering is also believed to assist with
behavioural problems in both dogs and bitches.



Micro-chipping



When a dog is micro-chipped, a chip the size of a grain of rice
is implanted beneath the skin. The micro-chip has an unique
identification number, which can be read using a scanner. This
is a painless procedure for the dog and is relatively
in-expensive and just think; if everyone did it, the problem of
stray dogs would be no more. Look out for schemes from your
Local Authority, offering cut price, or even free
micro-chipping!!



Remember: By law, your dog must wear an identification tag, even
if he is micro-chipped!



So, do your bit! Get your dog neutered and micro-chipped and
spread the word around the park! For more articles like this
please visit Kennel
Corner.



About the author:


Stephanie has written many articles on dog training which can be
found at the target="_blank">Kennel Corner website.





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