Top USA Pets

• By petcloud
• 9 December 20249 December 2024

Trauma can feel isolating, like you’re carrying a heavy weight that no one else can see. But sometimes, the best kind of support doesn’t come from people—it comes from animals. Pets have a way of making us feel safe and grounded, and there’s real science behind how they help us heal.

How Animals Bring Comfort

Pets Soothe Your Anxiety

Have you ever placed your hand on a dog’s side as they slept, feeling the steady rise and fall of their breathing?

It’s almost like their calm becomes your calm. This soothing effect isn’t just in your head—research shows that interacting with animals lowers levels of cortisol, the stress hormone that makes your heart race and your thoughts spiral.

At the same time, your brain releases oxytocin, the “feel-good” hormone, which helps you feel connected and relaxed. Whether it’s a purring cat on your lap or a dog leaning against your leg, these small moments can create big changes in how your body handles stress.

Pets Help You Feel Safe

For people recovering from trauma, trust can be hard to rebuild. Pets, though, offer unconditional love. They don’t care about your past, and they don’t judge. Instead, they provide a sense of safety that’s often missing after difficult experiences.

Pets Give You a Purpose and a reason to maintain routine

Sometimes, just having a reason to get up in the morning makes all the difference. Whether it’s feeding your guinea pig, taking your dog for a walk, or changing the water in your cat’s bowl, caring for an animal reminds you that you matter. That responsibility, no matter how small, can be a lifeline on hard days.

Why One-on-One Outings Are Ideal for Healing

Big group activities can feel overwhelming, especially if you’re still navigating the effects of trauma. Crowds, loud noises, and unpredictability can trigger anxiety, making recovery even harder.

This is why one-on-one outings are often the best choice. A quiet stroll with your dog or a slow-paced visit to the park with a support worker allows you to enjoy the moment without feeling overwhelmed. The focus is on creating a calm, personalized experience where you feel in control.

What Science Tells Us

There’s a growing body of evidence that backs up the healing power of animal companionship. A 2019 study in Frontiers in Psychology found that spending just 10 minutes with a dog significantly reduced anxiety levels. Similarly, walking in nature—especially with a trusted companion like a pet—has been shown to lower symptoms of depression and boost overall mental health.

These findings show why combining animal companionship with supportive outings can be so effective. Whether it’s feeling the warmth of a dog resting against you or taking a peaceful walk with your pet, these moments help rebuild a sense of calm and connection.

Finding the Right Support

When you’re on a healing journey, having the right support can make all the difference—for both you and your pet. PetCloud’s NDIS Social and Recreation Support is designed to create safe, one-on-one experiences that promote recovery through the bond between people and animals.

If you’re looking for a way to reconnect with the world, start with a paw by your side. 🐾

The Essential Guide to Preparing for and Caring for Your Pet After Surgery

While all surgeries come with some amount of risk, our pets can often sense when we’re worried. So, if your pet requires surgery, while it’s natural to feel anxious, being prepared and understanding the process will help you stay calm. 

Whether it’s a routine surgery or a more complex procedure, here’s all you need to know when it comes to preparing your pet for surgery and the aftercare required to get them back up and bouncing around on all fours.  

10 tips to prepare and care for your pet after surgery

Knowing what happens before, during and after a surgical procedure can help put your mind at ease. So, here’s all you need to know about pet safety for surgery.  

1. Learn how to prepare your pet for surgery 

It’s best to check with your veterinarian, but normally your cat or dog will need to fast for about 12 hours before surgery. This means no food should be available to them, and you should make all family members aware of this. However, you can provide your pet with fresh drinking water right up until the time of the procedure. 

You should also ensure your pet’s vaccinations are up to date, and because they cannot have a bath for about 12 days after surgery, be sure to do this beforehand. 

Additionally, take the opportunity to discuss with your vet any other procedures that could be performed while your pet is under, such as microchipping or nail trimming. 

2. What happens once you arrive at the clinic  

When you arrive at the clinic, you’ll need to complete an admission form for your pet which will include your emergency contact number. Now is a good time to ask any final questions about the operation before leaving your pet at the clinic for surgery. Be sure you’re clear about the procedure’s risks and what sort of aftercare you will need to provide. 

Your pet will likely undergo blood tests prior to anaesthesia, particularly if they are a senior animal, to ensure there are no underlying health problems and to check your pet’s liver and kidney health in preparation for surgery. 

3. What happens to your pet during surgery 

Your vet will use your pet’s breed, health status and age to tailor the dose of the anaesthetic to their specific needs. Your pet will then have a small patch of hair on their front leg shaved so that an anaesthetic can be administered intravenously, or, in some cases, gas will be given via a tube in their windpipe.  

Specialised equipment will be used to monitor your pet during surgery, and pain relief will be administered to help them recover following the procedure. 

4. Post-surgery care for your cat or dog

A nurse will monitor your pet after surgery as a general anaesthetic will take a few hours to wear off. In most cases, it’s not necessary to stay at home with your pet following their surgery so long as they have somewhere warm and comfortable to rest. However, if you wish to be close to your pet as they recover, it’s best to plan some time off after the surgery rather than the day of the procedure. Your pet may appear drowsy for a day or so, but its behaviour should soon return to normal. 

Be sure to follow the vet’s post-surgical instructions carefully and prepare a clean, quiet space in your house for your pet to rest, away from loud noises and other animals. Give them soft bedding in a warm space and avoid handling them too much during their first few days of recovery. 

5. How pain management helps your pet

If your pet has been prescribed medication, be sure to follow the instructions carefully. Set an alarm on your phone to help you remember to give medicine on time and be sure to complete the whole course, even if your pet seems to be feeling better. 

During this time, it’s also important to monitor your pet’s pain. Observe their behaviour, keep an eye out for signs of distress or discomfort and contact your veterinarian if your pet doesn’t seem to be getting better.

Excessive pain, irritation, bleeding, discharge or swelling, particularly near the suture site, could be a sign of infection, so contact your vet immediately if you notice these. 

6. Why you need to restrict your pet’s activity 

After a few days, your pet will be back to feeling its old self again. However, you may still need to restrict their movement and physical activity to ensure stitches stay in place and their healing continues. You can use a crate to prevent your pet from jumping or running before they’re physically ready. Your veterinarian will advise you when it’s safe for dogs to resume their normal exercise routines. 

7. Wound care is crucial for your pet’s recovery

It is essential to prevent your pet from licking or chewing the surgical site as this can lead to infection or open the wound. Use an Elizabethan collar (often known as a neck cone) if your pet starts to irritate the wound, and only remove it when your pet is fully supervised. 

You’ll need to keep their wound clean and dry for about two weeks after surgery, so no swimming or bathing during this time. You may also be required to clean the incision site and the skin surrounding it with antiseptic, salty water, or a topical medication, so ensure you are doing this as frequently as required. Check bandages and stitches on a daily basis, and contact your veterinarian immediately if you have any concerns. 

8. You might need to modify their diet

Often, cats and dogs may require a special diet to help them recover from surgery, particularly if the procedure was a part of treatment for illness or disease. Be sure to discuss any dietary restrictions with your vet before bringing your pet home. Otherwise, continue to feed them a balanced diet and provide plenty of fresh water to ensure their healing process continues smoothly. 

9. Be sure to attend a discharge appointment

You may require a follow-up appointment following surgery so that your veterinarian can monitor your pet’s recovery or remove stitches. This is also a time for you to mention anything of concern regarding your pet’s progress. 

10. Look out for signs of post-surgery complications

If you see any of the following signs in your pet after surgery, speak to your vet immediately: 

• Prolonged loss of appetite 
• Lethargy for more than a few days following surgery
• Vomiting or diarrhea 
• Redness, swelling, bleeding, discharge or odour from the surgical site.

A dedicated veterinary practice where every pet is a friend

While it can be difficult to put your pet’s safety in the hands of others, the veterinary professionals at Rossmore Veterinary Hospital treat all pets as if they are their own. 

As surgery can be a difficult time for a pet owner, the staff at our Sydney clinic are here to answer any questions you may have regarding caring for your pet before or after a surgical procedure. Contact us or call us on (02) 9606 6984 if we can assist you or your pet in any way.

Not sure if you should enrol your new puppy into a puppy school? Maybe you’re contemplating if it’s a waste of time and will train your dog on your own.

Fortunately, puppy training has dual benefits for both owner and pup. It is not mandatory for dogs, but substantial essential learning can be gained from the course. It is also a lot of fun!

As a type of early education for puppies, usually only 8 to 16 weeks old, puppy pre-school exposes your new pet to a variety of situations to learn a range of useful habits, such as:

• Obedience training
• Socialising with other puppies
• Becoming comfortable with humans
• Reducing fear of new environments 

What happens at puppy pre-school?

Puppy pre-school is designed to help a puppy’s overall learning during the first few months of its life. Led by experienced puppy trainers, your pup will learn basic obedience commands, socialisation skills with other dogs, and grow accustomed to being around people. The classes are held in safe, enclosed environments, such as a park or pet store, so your puppy can attend regardless of its vaccination status. 

Classes usually run for about an hour a week for 6 to 9 weeks. As the owner, you will also gain important information during this time about toilet training, nutrition, behaviour control, patience and effective communication with your pet.

Exercises that occur at puppy pre-school

Teaching puppies basic commands

Unlike obedience training, which focuses on ongoing training of obedience commands for dogs older than 6 months, puppy classes target the critical ‘socialisation period‘, where pups find absorbing new information easier. This development will consequently affect their future behaviour.

An experienced dog trainer will guide you to teach your puppy general manners, such as sit, down or drop, stay, come, wait and heel. Over 80% of puppies who attend pre-school classes learn basic obedience commands. Tricks, like roll-over, may also be taught.

These skills are achieved through reward-based training — using positive reinforcement and giving pups treats for their ‘good’ behaviour. Sometimes clicker training is used to complement rewards, where the noise of the clicker ‘marks’ the moment of your puppy’s correct action for them. Likewise, ‘unwanted’ behaviours are ignored, for if a dog does not receive attention nor is rewarded for its actions, they usually stop doing them. 

During puppy pre-school, praise-based and reward-based training also help to minimise biting and jumping on people, though both are normal behaviours for a puppy to display. 

Introducing them to different surfaces 

Puppies are naturally fearful of new locations and experiences. Attending puppy pre-school classes located in a veterinary clinic is helpful for your dog’s understanding that it is a safe environment. You will need to bring your puppy to the vet regularly throughout its life, for everything from vaccinations to health check-ups, so the weekly consistency of classes will reinforce a positive reaction to the vet. 

One way puppy school builds familiarity with locations and sensations is the exercise of walking on a loose leash. This way, your puppy can scale the area in a controlled environment while adjusting to the idea of a leash and being among other humans and dogs.

These skills will make toilet training your puppy smoother. Puppies cannot control their small bladders for long periods of time. Your puppy trainer may suggest tips for crate training to provide your dog with a safe space for short periods of time. When your puppy eventually considers the crate their ‘den’, they tend not to urinate/defecate in it. Moreover, crate training is useful to transport and confine your pup when necessary without stressing them, such as after surgery or visits to the vet.

Introducing them to other puppies and people

Puppy pre-school classes are designed to help puppies become well-rounded and socialised so that they can live happily in a home environment, on walks, and interact safely off-lead at dog parks. So, even if you have an older dog at home, puppy lessons are a great way for your pup to meet new shapes, sizes, personalities and breeds of dogs. 

During the ‘play’ periods of the lessons, your pup will be able to experiment with boundaries. Under the supervision of a professional trainer, appropriate play will be observed and rewarded, whereas bullying or dominant behaviour will be ignored and discouraged. 

You might even make new puppy buddies that can help with dog minding and play dates!

Likewise, they’ll become exposed to the other owners and their vets. A 2012 study revealed that future problematic behaviours like a fear of strangers were reduced when puppies attended socialisation classes at 16 weeks of age.

Bringing the family along to class is a good and cost-effective idea for children to build a genuine relationship with their dog and learn the safe handling of pets, which is essential to preventing injuries. 

Enrol your puppy for classes today!

Ultimately, puppy lessons are an individual decision. However, if you think your dog could benefit from behavioural, obedience and socialisation classes, puppy pre-school is the place to ask all your questions and receive advice on training techniques.

At Rossmore Veterinary Clinic, we can help provide your furry little friend with the early education it needs. Call us with your inquiries or to book your spot for puppy pre-school courses.

Pool therapy for dogs, also known as hydrotherapy, is a rehabilitation technique for injuries and muscle conditions.

Like humans, pain management for dogs requires small, safe exercises in a controlled environment.

Hydrotherapy is an effective method for dogs since your pet’s weight is supported by the water, allowing them to begin the road to recovery with low-impact movements.

There are various types of canine hydrotherapy. Be sure to discuss the appropriate option for your dog with your vet before booking their first session.

What is Pool Therapy for Dogs?

Hydrotherapy for dogs usually consists of walking or swimming in shallow water, accompanied by a professional hydrotherapist and flotation devices.

Though this can be achieved by walking in shallow water at the beach, pool therapy is a very specific, structured type of program to ease arthritis discomfort in pets. Following injuries or surgical procedures, or if your dog requires greater exercise or optimised conditioning, your vet may recommend this form of rehabilitation.

Just as swimming provides a good cardiovascular and muscular workout for humans, increasing calorie burn, dogs also experience similar benefits, improving muscle strength.

With the aid of flotation devices, less pressure is placed on your dog’s limbs when using an underwater treadmill or swimming. This allows for gentle, healing activities to promote movement without the risk of discomfort.

Benefits of Pool Therapy for Pain Relief

Aquatic therapy supports joints and reduces pain in your dog as their paws only just touch the treadmill, allowing for gentle exercise without putting excess stress on their injured limbs. If swimming, your dog will wear buoyancy gear, so they float weightlessly in the water, saving the excess energy to stay afloat.

Ultimately, water therapy should form only one part of a dog’s overall rehabilitation program. Listen to your vet’s advice for a holistic plan, especially if a variety of medications or surgery is required to support your pet’s health conditions.

However, the benefit is that pool therapy has versatile functions, and even ten minutes of regular exercise in the dog will reduce their risks of obesity and inflammation, improve blood flow and muscle mass, and maintain a healthy well-being.

Conditions that Benefit from Pool Therapy

Primarily, hydrotherapy supports dogs with arthritis — joint inflammation, which causes extreme discomfort to the dog, leading to a reluctance to walk. Required treatments include painkilling and anti-inflammatory medication to restore joint fluid, along with regular, moderate swimming.

As pool therapy is weightless, dogs are encouraged to completely extend their limbs on treadmills or during water exercise.

Since pool therapy aids muscle strength and irritation relief, it’s beneficial for dogs with the following conditions:

• Dogs with neurological conditions
• Pets suffering from painful osteoarthritis (leading to lameness, increasing immobility, and muscle weakness, which can lead to a reduction in quality of life)
• Post-operative recovery from orthopaedic procedures
• Dogs dealing with pain (due to hip dysplasia)
• Metabolic conditions resulting in muscle atrophy (like Cushing’s and diabetes)
• Paralysed dogs
• Helping overweight pets with weight loss through exercise

Dogs older than 7 years are considered seniors. It’s important to follow your vet’s lead when it comes to caring for ageing pets, including their exercise routine. However, small bouts of swimming will help regulate their temperature and improve their physical shape.

Post-surgery care is crucial once you leave the vet’s clinic. Water treatment will need to occur two weeks after the surgery, to ensure the wound is clean and dry, and any stitches have been removed.

What to Expect During a Pool Therapy Session

There are three types of aquatic therapy sessions for dogs:

1 – Underwater Treadmill. This allows for gentle, gradual weight-bearing exercises by varying the water level (and thus controlling the dog’s buoyancy level) to treat joint issues and arthritis. Encased in a glass or plastic container large enough to suit most dogs, the hydrotherapist will open a side door for the dog to walk in, shut the door, and fill the chamber with water to above your dog’s hips. The transparent case allows for observation from all angles. The treadmill slowly moves, encouraging your dog to walk without the additional stress of gravity, therefore providing strength training.

2 – Dog Pools. Here, a professional hydrotherapist guides your dog in non-weight-bearing exercises to get the joints moving and build strength and endurance. Dog pools are effective for osteoarthritis and weaknesses related to neurological conditions.

3 – Dog Whirlpools provide a massage-like benefit to relax your dog’s muscles. Consider it a jacuzzi treatment for your pet.

Of course, pool therapy is not for every dog. If your pet becomes overly anxious or struggles to swim, gradual exposure with treats and praise is important. The goal of hydrotherapy is to ease pain, so if your dog is becoming increasingly agitated with a high heart rate, it’s best to stop.

Finding a Qualified Canine Hydrotherapist

At Rossmore Vet, we offer high-quality orthopaedic services for your canines, as well as other comprehensive treatments that cater uniquely to your dog’s health and mobility needs.

If you are considering exploring hydrotherapy as a treatment option for your furry friend, why not bring them along to Rossmore Vet’s very own aqua therapy pool? You’ll have our gentle and professional veterinarians guiding their recovery treatment. Call the team on (02) 9606 6984 for more information.

• By petcloud
• September 22, 2024September 22, 2024

As a Pet Owner or a Professional Dog Walker, your primary responsibility is the safety of the dogs in your care. Unfortunately, despite best efforts, dog attacks can happen. Knowing how to react swiftly, legally, and wisely in such situations can make all the difference. This guide will help you understand the steps to take if a dog you are walking is attacked by another dog, covering smart actions, liability, and legal consequences.

1. Stop the Attack Safely

The first and most crucial step is to stop the attack while ensuring your own safety and that of the dog you’re walking. Here are some practical tips:

• Avoid putting yourself between the dogs: This can lead to injury. Instead, use distractions like loud noises, water, or a barrier (e.g., a jacket or leash) to separate the dogs.
• Use a deterrent: Carrying an air horn can help ward off aggressive dogs. Unfortunately carrying a pet-safe spray deterrent is considered pre-meditated animal cruelty by police and RSPCA and even if you are defending your dog you will be charged.
• Leash Control: If the attacking dog is off-leash, you may need to lift the dog up or secure the dog you’re walking to prevent further escalation.

2. Assess the Situation & Provide First Aid

Once the attack stops, check the dog you’re walking for injuries. Common signs of injury may include limping, bleeding, or signs of shock (e.g., panting, trembling). Apply basic first aid, such as cleaning wounds and bandaging if necessary, and take the dog to a vet as soon as possible.

3. Document the Attack

Gathering evidence is vital for liability purposes and potential legal action. Here’s how to document the situation thoroughly:

• Photograph the Offender and Their Dog: Capture clear photos of the attacking dog, its owner (if present), and the scene. These will serve as critical evidence.
• Take Notes: Document the time, location, and details of the attack. Were there any witnesses? Did the other dog show signs of aggression before the attack?
• Ask the Owner for ID: Politely request the dog owner’s contact details, including their name, address, and phone number. This information is crucial for future reports.

4. Report the Incident

It’s essential to report the dog attack to the proper authorities. Here’s a breakdown of where and how to report:

• Council Report: Contact your local council to report the dog attack. Councils often handle dangerous dog complaints, and they may investigate whether the offending dog has a history of aggressive behavior.
• Police Report: In cases where the attack was particularly violent or if the offending owner becomes aggressive or refuses to cooperate, file a police report. Some dog attacks may lead to legal action if they pose a threat to public safety.
• Post in Local Facebook Groups: Sharing details of the attack in local community or pet-related Facebook groups can help identify the offending dog and prevent future incidents. However, avoid defamatory language—stick to factual details and images.

5. Seek Medical Attention for the Injured Dog

Even if the injuries seem minor, always seek veterinary care after an attack. Some injuries, like puncture wounds, can become infected or may be more severe than they appear. Keep any vet reports as evidence for potential claims.

6. Understand Liability

As a professional dog walker, you might worry about legal and financial liability. Here’s what to keep in mind:

• Who’s Liable?: The owner of the attacking dog is generally responsible for the actions of their pet. However, if the dog you’re walking was off-leash in an on-leash area, you may be held partly responsible.
• Insurance: Make sure you have proper pet sitter or dog walker insurance that covers dog-on-dog attacks. Dog Walking platforms like PetCloud provide liability insurance cover for all bookings which can help protect you from potential legal claims.

7. Follow-Up with Authorities

Ensure you keep a record of all communications with the council, police, and the offending owner. Follow up if needed to ensure the case is being processed, especially if the attacking dog poses an ongoing threat.

8. Communication with the Dog’s Owner

If you are a Dog Walker, inform the Dog’s Owner about the incident as soon as possible. Provide them with the details, photos, and vet recommendations. Transparency is essential to maintaining trust.

9. Stay Calm & Professional

It’s understandable to feel shaken after a dog attack, but staying calm is crucial. Avoid confrontations with the other dog owner, and let the authorities handle the situation if things escalate.

10. Prevent Future Incidents

• Carry Proper Tools: Consider carrying an air horn, or personal alarm in case of future dog attacks.
• Walk in Safe Areas: Avoid parks or areas where off-leash dogs frequently roam.
• Stay Informed: Keep up with local regulations about dangerous dogs, and avoid any dogs or areas with a history of aggressive behavior.

Conclusion

Dog attacks are traumatic for both the dogs involved and their caretakers. As a Pet Owner or Professional Dog Walker, being prepared, knowing how to act quickly, and understanding your legal rights can help minimize the damage and protect both you and the dog you’re walking. By documenting the attack, making the right reports, and following up responsibly, you can ensure justice is served while prioritizing safety for future walks.

• By petcloud
• September 21, 2024September 21, 2024

Bull Arab dogs are powerful, energetic, and have a high prey drive, making them both wonderful companions and a challenge to walk. Originally bred as hunting dogs, they’re known for their strength, agility, and keen instincts, which can sometimes lead to reactivity towards smaller animals. Ensuring your Bull Arab has a safe and controlled walk is key to their well-being and your peace of mind.

Understanding the Strength and Prey Drive of Bull Arab Dogs

Bull Arabs can weigh up to 50 kg and possess significant muscular strength. Their hunting lineage gives them a high prey drive, meaning they might see smaller dogs, cats, or even children as something to chase. Walking such a powerful dog requires not only physical strength but also keen observation skills to anticipate potential triggers. If your dog jerks suddenly towards prey or a distraction, it can easily lead to shoulder dislocation or a dangerous situation for you or others.

Choosing the Right Dog Walking Equipment

Option 1: Dog Harness with a Front Clip

For Bull Arabs, a front-clip harness is the best starting point. This type of harness allows you to steer your dog’s direction with less force, helping you maintain better control without putting pressure on their neck. The front-clip design discourages pulling by gently redirecting their forward momentum, making walks more manageable.

Option 2: Head Halters

While head halters are often recommended for large, strong dogs, they should not be the first option. Many dogs, including Bull Arabs, find them uncomfortable, and forcing a dog to wear one without proper conditioning can cause stress and frustration. It’s crucial to introduce a head halter slowly, and ideally, only under the guidance of a force-free trainer or veterinary behaviourist. Patience is key, allowing your dog time to adapt.

Option 3: A Well-Fitted Basket Muzzle

If your Bull Arab shows signs of reactivity towards other dogs, a well-fitted basket muzzle can be an excellent training tool. Unlike restrictive muzzles, a basket muzzle allows your dog to pant, drink, and take treats comfortably, making it a safer option during walks. Muzzles, when used correctly, can assist in teaching your dog to remain calm and help prevent sudden reactions to small animals or unfamiliar dogs.

The Importance of choosing Professional Dog Walkers

Bull Arabs require more than just a casual stroll—they need a strong, experienced handler who can quickly react in unexpected situations. Walking a Bull Arab is not just about maintaining control; it’s about being able to anticipate triggers and avoid dangerous situations before they arise.

Consequences

If your dog spots something to chase, a sudden jerk could leave you unprepared, and their sheer strength could lead to injuries to you, such as a dislocated shoulder, or injuries and even death to other dogs or children.

There are legal and financial consequences if your dog attacks a person or animal. You may be liable for tens of thousands of dollars in fines. Your dog may be seized and euthanised. You may also have to pay compensation for any damage or loss of life caused by your dog to the other person, as ordered by a court.

That’s why choosing a professional dog walker with experience in handling large, strong breeds is essential. Yes, you may have to pay a slightly higher fee for professional, experienced, large dog handlers, than ‘hobbyist’ dog walkers, but its better than suffering financial loss, injuries, and death.

A professional walker knows how to stay calm under pressure, respond swiftly to any situation, and prevent accidents before they happen.

Why Choose Expert Professional Dog Walkers through PetCloud?

We understand the unique needs of Bull Arab dogs. PetCloud’s platform has a network of professional dog walkers is experienced with large, powerful breeds and trained to handle dogs with high prey drives. They know how to control a Bull Arab while ensuring the dog’s safety and comfort, so you can trust that your pet is in capable hands.

Dog Walkers on PetCloud don’t just focus on controlling the dog; they anticipate potential triggers, giving them the upper hand in preventing any dangerous situations. Whether it’s walking your Bull Arab in a calm environment or helping them adapt to new training equipment like harnesses or muzzles, our professional walkers provide the care and attention your dog deserves.

Conclusion

Walking a Bull Arab can be challenging, but with the right equipment and an experienced handler, you can ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for both you and your dog. Always consider using a front-clip harness and, when necessary, a basket muzzle to help train and control your Bull Arab. And when it comes to selecting a dog walker, choose someone who has the strength, experience, and quick reflexes to handle such a powerful breed.

With PetCloud’s network of expert dog walkers, you can rest easy knowing that your Bull Arab will get the care they need on every walk. Ready to book a professional? Visit PetCloud today to find an experienced dog walker near you!

If you’ve ever seen a dog walker in New York, you might have noticed them walking what seems like a small army of dogs—sometimes up to 10 at a time! It’s an impressive sight, but here in Australia, the rules and practices around dog walking are a little different, and for good reason. So, how many dogs can you walk at once in Australia, and what should you keep in mind as a responsible dog walker?

Keeping Control: The Key to Safe Dog Walking

When it comes to dog walking, safety and control are top priorities. In New York, walking multiple dogs through busy streets is common, but here in Australia, local councils often have restrictions on how many dogs you can walk at once—typically, this number ranges from 4 to 6 dogs, depending on your location.

Walking a group of dogs may look simple, but it requires a deep understanding of canine behavior. The more dogs you walk, the harder it becomes to ensure each one is under control, especially if a distraction like another dog, a loud noise, or even a cat crosses your path! Being able to manage multiple dogs while navigating hazards is crucial for both the safety of the dogs and the peace of mind of their owners.

Why the Numbers Matter

In some Australian cities, councils impose specific limits on the number of dogs you can walk at once without special permits. These rules aren’t just there to make life difficult—they exist to ensure dog walkers can manage their pack responsibly and avoid accidents or incidents. If you’re walking more than you can handle, it’s not just stressful for you—it can also lead to leash tangles, unpredictable behavior, or worse, a dog running into traffic.

In contrast, while dog walkers in New York might take more dogs at once, they’re often doing so in very different environments, where there are usually fewer open spaces and more leash laws in place to ensure dogs are kept close. In Australia, with our expansive parks and beaches, it can be tempting to take on a larger group, but maintaining control is always the top priority.

The Importance of Safety for You and the Dogs

Every dog has its own personality and needs—some are social butterflies who thrive in a group setting, while others prefer more personal attention. As a dog walker, it’s your responsibility to ensure each dog is comfortable and safe. Walking too many dogs at once can make it harder to notice if one is getting anxious or struggling to keep up. Worse, it can leave you overwhelmed if something unexpected happens.

And it’s not just about control—it’s about being able to react quickly. For instance, if one of the dogs suddenly pulls towards something dangerous or if they get into a tangle with another dog, you need to be able to intervene quickly.

PetCloud Makes Dog Walking Safer and Easier

If you’re thinking about becoming a dog walker, or if you’re already walking dogs and want to take your service to the next level, PetCloud is the perfect platform to join. Here’s why:

• Insurance Protection: Walking dogs, whether one or five, carries risks. By joining PetCloud, you’re covered by our insurance, giving you peace of mind that both you and the dogs are protected if anything goes wrong.
• Access to Pet Jobs: PetCloud’s platform connects you with pet owners in need of dog walking services. New dog walking jobs are posted daily on our Pet Jobs board, helping you easily find opportunities near you.
• Community and Support: At PetCloud, you’re part of a community of passionate pet lovers. Plus, you’ll have access to ongoing support and resources to ensure your dog walking business thrives.

Ready to Become a Dog Walker?

Walking dogs is a rewarding experience, and when done right, it can also be a lucrative and fun way to spend your time outdoors with furry companions. However, it’s essential to understand your limits and prioritize the safety of both yourself and the dogs in your care.

By joining PetCloud, you’ll have the backing of a trusted platform that not only connects you with local pet owners but also gives you the tools and insurance you need to walk dogs confidently and safely. Whether you want to walk one dog at a time or build up to managing a pack, PetCloud helps make the process easier and more secure.

So, why wait? Sign up today and start your dog walking journey with PetCloud!

• By petcloud
• September 20, 2024September 20, 2024

Cavoodles, the adorable hybrid of a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel and a Poodle, have become one of Australia’s most popular pets. Known for their playful yet gentle nature, these dogs are fantastic companions for families, singles, and seniors alike. As loving as Cavoodles are, they also require proper care to thrive.

In this guide, we’ll walk through some essential tips to care for your Cavoodle, and how PetCloud’s services and app can make life easier for Cavoodle owners across Australia.

1. Daily Exercise for a Happy Pup

Cavoodles are an energetic breed and require regular exercise to stay happy and healthy. While they enjoy lounging around the house, they also love to play and explore. Aim for at least 30 minutes of exercise each day, whether it’s a walk, a game of fetch, or a visit to the dog park.

If you’re busy and worried about your Cavoodle not getting enough exercise, the PetCloud App has local dog walkers Australia-wide who are just a few taps away on the app!

2. Mental Stimulation

Keeping your Cavoodle mentally stimulated is just as important as physical activity. Puzzles, toys, and training exercises can help prevent boredom, which can lead to destructive behaviors. Cavoodles are highly intelligent and love to learn new tricks!

If you’re heading out of town or need a break, you can find Doggy Day Carers on PetCloud who can help keep your Cavoodle entertained and engaged, ensuring they’re mentally stimulated even when you’re away.

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3. Socialisation and Play

Cavoodle puppies have a critical socialisation period between 3 and 17 weeks of age where they purposefully need to be taken through a range of different situations, interactions, sights, sounds, and smells and environments in order to grow into a well adjusted adult dog.

So in order to ensure this socialisation and desensitisation occurs, many Pet Parents book their Cavoodle into home-based Doggy Day Care. PetCloud makes finding a doggy day carer quick and simple. With PetCloud’s national platform, you can easily find someone to look after your Cavoodle when you’re at work or on holiday exploring for the day.

Once past the critical socialisation period, Cavoodles still thrive on social interaction, whether it’s with other dogs, people, or children. They can develop separation anxiety if left alone for long periods, so it’s important to keep them engaged and offer opportunities to socialise.

4. Regular Grooming is Key

Cavoodles often have soft, curly coats that need consistent care to stay in great condition. Without regular grooming, their fur can become tangled and matted, causing discomfort. Plan to brush your Cavoodle’s coat at least 2-3 times a week and schedule professional grooming every 4-6 weeks to keep their coat healthy and shiny.

Pro Tip: If you’re short on time, you can easily book a trusted local pet groomer through the PetCloud app.

5. Balanced Nutrition

A healthy Cavoodle diet should be rich in high-quality protein, omega fatty acids, and vitamins to keep their coat shiny and energy levels high. Avoid feeding your Cavoodle too many treats or table scraps, as small breeds like Cavoodles can easily become overweight.

6. Healthcare Maintenance

Routine check-ups with the vet, vaccinations, flea and tick prevention, and dental care are crucial for your Cavoodle’s long-term health. As a breed prone to genetic conditions such as hip dysplasia and ear infections, it’s essential to stay proactive.

The PetCloud app allows you to set reminders for vet appointments, ensuring your Cavoodle stays up to date on all necessary treatments.

Download the PetCloud App and Make Caring for Your Cavoodle Easier

PetCloud’s services are designed to help you care for your Cavoodle with ease. From finding experienced pet sitters and dog walkers to booking grooming services and setting vet reminders, our app has everything you need in one place.

With just a few taps, you can:

• Book local pet care professionals
• Arrange grooming appointments
• Schedule walks for your Cavoodle
• Set reminders for vet check-ups
• Access educational resources about Cavoodle care

Whether you’re going on holiday or need regular help during a busy workweek, PetCloud connects you with trusted carers in your area to give you peace of mind. Download the PetCloud app today and take the stress out of caring for your Cavoodle!

Conclusion

Caring for a Cavoodle involves grooming, exercise, socialization, and routine vet care. With the help of the PetCloud app, you can easily manage all aspects of your Cavoodle’s care from your phone, ensuring they stay happy and healthy while you enjoy peace of mind.

Download PetCloud now and give your Cavoodle the best care possible!