Donna Green, pet behaviour expert: advice on getting a new animal companion

Donna Green is an East Devon based, professionally qualified pet behaviour expert. She offers dog training and animal behaviour advice to help owners understand their pets better and tackle behavioural problems.

In her latest column, she gives some useful pointers to anyone planning to take on a new animal companion..

Getting a new pet is an exciting adventure whether it is as small as a hamster or a new dog. Whatever your new pet you need to do your research from suitable sources to ensure that you not only provide the correct environment and have the time for them, but also provide the most suitable enrichment to ensure that they have the best possible life.

There are many places to obtain your new pet, either from a specialist breeder or a reputable rescue centre. During the recent lockdowns there has been an increase in pet ownership, especially in dogs, and in some cases there have been issues in socialisation and training.

Providing the right environment for your pet

If you are considering a pet that requires an enclosure, for example, a rabbit or a reptile, research is important to ensure the correct environment. For reptiles you need to know the correct temperature, humidity and diet and have your enclosure prepared for the new arrival. For many of these animals it is important to have as large an enclosure as possible to allow natural behaviour and exercise.

My last rabbit had a very large hutch and also the whole garden was her run, I used to use joined-up puppy pens, so she had the maximum space. This also had the benefit of no need to mow the lawn.

Getting a new dog or cat

If you are considering a puppy you will need to enrol them in a reputable puppy class, so they are able to learn not just the basic cues but also to socialise with others. It is not recommended to walk your puppy until a week after it has received its second vaccination, but you can still socialise them by taking them out for a walk by carrying them.

Depending on the breed you have chosen you will need to ensure both mum and dad have the suitable certificates, for example, hip scores in many breeds. You will also need to take into consideration the amount of time you have available; it is no use getting a dog if you work long hours and do not have the time to walk and socialise with it.

Cats, you will need to decide if they are to be housed indoor or outdoor depending on where you live and also ensure there are lots of activities for them to participate in. Cats will scratch so it is important to have somewhere they can perform this behaviour. Again, cats require company. During the first lockdown my cat initially looked a bit fed up with having his days disturbed with me working from home, and since I have returned to the office, as soon as I am home, he is demanding my attention. As with all of us the recent times have been disrupting.

For further information there are some websites below for guidance, also please contact your local veterinary practice for advice on obtaining a new pet and deciding if it is for you.

www.thekennelclub.org.uk

www.cats.org.uk

www.rabbitwelfare.co.uk

www.apbc.org.uk

Disclaimer: if your pet is experiencing problems contact a qualified behaviour counsellor so they can design a programme suitable for you and your pet and work closely with you.

For more information, visit Donna's website.

You can contact Donna on 07523 202913, or by emailing [email protected]