NEWS ARCHIVE

We are raising money for Ronald McDonald House Charities Sydney by taking part in PAWS for Sick Kids this August.

You’ve probably heard the term ‘food is medicine’, this is particularly true when it comes to dogs who do not have the gamut of pain medication available that humans do. Just like us dogs experience aches and pains in their body from bouts of tummy upset, joint pain, injury or from existing conditions that put strain on their bodies.

When Pip decided to adopt, it was essential to select a breed that was sweet-natured, as well as being low maintenance with minimal shedding. That’s when she found Loki the greyhound, who has made their household a whole lot happier and healthier (thanks to all the extra walks).

We are so excited to be taking part in PAWGUST this year to help raise money for Guide Dogs Australia and we have a special little sweetener for you if you get on board with us!

Leisurely walks can benefit both you and your greyhound, providing exercise, mental stimulation, relaxation and an opportunity to strengthen your bond. Some of these benefits can be lost when your dog is constantly pulling and straining on the other end of the leash.

Chances are that your greyhound has now become used to the extra attention they’ve been receiving at home, the extra walks and play-time, and perhaps the additional treats that they’ve been spoiled with while owners have been in isolation or working from home.

While many of us feel our pants becoming a little more snug from the ‘Rona snacks’ we have all been having during isolation, a video has emerged on Twitter of a man working out with his dog Magnus that has since gone viral with over 12 million views.

Like us, dogs in old age begin to show signs of wear and tear in their joints. It’s not uncommon for dogs to develop arthritis in their hips, knees, shoulders and elbows which may cause discomfort and reduce their mobility.

All animals have instinctive behaviours designed to help them acquire food. For omnivores like the dog, this includes the sequence of behaviours that allowed them to catch and eat other animals when they had to survive in the wild. Selective breeding has altered how certain breeds of dogs express this behavioural sequence that was essential to their survival before they had us humans to provide for all their needs! For example, certain herding breeds, like the Border Collie, have been bred with an emphasis on the ‘stare’ portion of the sequence. Similarly, greyhounds have been bred with an emphasis on the ‘chase’ portion - this is what makes them such fabulous athletes!

During the pandemic, we have witnessed regular household items become hot commodities in supermarkets, and unexpectedly, so too did dog adoptions.

Canine influenza or dog flu, can cause dogs to be uncomfortable, sick and in severe cases, pose a serious risk to their life. While most cases are not fatal, it’s important to be prepared and know the symptoms you should look out for.

Barking is a natural behaviour for any dog, it’s a means of expressing themselves and communicating with you.  Expecting a dog to never bark is unreasonable, much like expecting humans never to talk. The key to achieving a peaceful household is to understand what your dog is trying to tell you and then work together to find a solution that benefits both you and the neighbourhood!

It’s so easy to reward your best mate with a bit of food from your plate, as they intently stare at every bite you take. While the occasional dog-friendly treat is ok, what you feed your dog may actually be dangerous and sometimes poisonous to your dog.

While physical distancing and handwashing are still the new way of life, restrictions in NSW have eased a little which means life for you and your pooch are slowly returning to normal.

As the daylight hours become shorter, the nights become cooler and Winter rolls in, it’s important that we limit the health risks to dogs associated with a drop in temperature.

If you have been considering becoming a dog foster carer and want to make a real difference to the life of a greyhound by preparing them for pet life, we would love to hear from you.

Anyone who has tried to research dog training online knows that there is a wealth of different opinions of how best to train dogs- greyhounds included. Trying to separate fact from fiction can be quite overwhelming.

At Greyhounds as Pets, we believe our volunteers have the biggest hearts of them all!

Most adult animal lovers began their journey with their childhood dog, whose strong friendship gave them countless fond memories. To ensure both child and dog become the best of friends, kids should be taught that dogs are not a toy, they have the same kind of feelings as us humans: pain, fear and even happiness. So mutual respect and clear rules are essential for building a safe and positive environment.

Just like humans, dogs use their face and body language to communicate with the outside world. Understanding what your greyhound is trying to tell you can improve the general well-being of your dog, and allow you to understand their current mood. Sometimes body language can be subtle, but becoming familiar with your greyhound’s communication will help to strengthen your bond.