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In this Episode:
Series 1 Episode Guide:
Super Vets
None at present.
Best thing - a pet brings another dimension into our lives. The mutual benefits of a caring relationship. A pet never judges you, and has an innocence that draws you away from your stresses of the day. Constant surprises.
Worst thing - actually, having a pet is a doddle after bringing up children. There are responsibilities, but the necessary commitment comes with the choice of owning a pet. Perhaps the worst thing is when the pet does something to upset other people (disturbing the neighbours by barking etc.).
About two-and-a-half hours a day.
Prior to the accident - inoculations, treatment for fleas, annual check-up. Following the accident, quite frequently as directed by the RVC.
Yes.
It was very difficult when Frodo initially came home from hospital. He was unable to walk unsupported, and on the first visit home we had to take him back after 24 hours as he had not emptied his bladder. Frodo required long periods of cage-rest but as he got better it became an ongoing battle to return him to his cage. Even now, Frodo feels completely well and expects to be able to do everything that a three-year-old spaniel should; he is frustrated by the limitations we try to place on him, and we in turn find it difficult always to keep to the recommendations set by the hospital.
Have you ever attended training classes with your pets?
We once took Frodo back to his breeder, who also trains dogs. He taught him to sit and to walk to heel in five minutes. It was a matter of learning to manage ourselves in relation to the dog.
In England but not abroad.
Unfortunately Frodo was not insured at the time of his accident, and this has highlighted the importance of insurance. We were fortunate to be in a position to cover the costs on this occasion, but it would be very painful to be faced with the impossible decision of not treating him because we could not afford it. You never know what is round the corner, and insurance makes it possible to provide appropriate medical care in unpredictable circumstances.
A responsible owner will recognise and accept that a pet is an important part of the family and has a significant role to play in it. However, they will maintain an awareness that it is not a human, nor is it a wild animal. Once an animal has been domesticated it becomes totally dependent on its carers for all its needs. Unlike a child it will never mature to the point where it can lead its own existence. It is important to respect its status as a family member but also as an animal with its own requirements. The owner must meet the needs of the pet, and not expect the pet to meet the needs of the family. A good owner will find a balance between these factors, and both pet and owner will reap the rewards.
