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  3. Companion Animals
  4. Dogs
  5. Caring for my Dog

Caring for my Dog

Can dogs be safely confined by tethering?

Where dogs need to be confined outdoors, the best way to do this is in a suitable yard or enclosure. Where these options are not available, some people choose to tether their dogs. This practice is particularly common for working farm and sled dogs.

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  • Animal behaviour
  • Housing

How should I introduce my new cat or kitten to the family dog?

First consider if it would be safe and appropriate to have both a dog and cat as part of your family. While dogs and cats can live together in harmony and even become friends, in some cases individual dogs may not be compatible with cats.

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  • Adopting an animal
  • Animal behaviour
  • Animals living together
  • New pets
  • Pet care
  • Pet owner basics

Can you give me some advice on caring for my dog?

Having a companion dog can be a wonderful and joyful part of your life but is also a big commitment and responsibility; they require care and understanding, shelter, a balanced diet, daily exercise, veterinary care, training, enrichment, and more.

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  • New pets
  • Pet care
  • Pet owner basics

How do I tell if my dog is overweight?

Obesity is a common health problems in Australian dogs.  If not addressed early on obesity can lead to other serious health complications such as heart failure and diabetes. Obesity can also exacerbate other conditions such as osteoarthritis.

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  • Pet care
  • Veterinary care
dog playing off leash

What should I know before taking my dog to an ‘off-leash’ park?

Off-leash dog parks offer many physical and mental benefits for dogs and people including the opportunity to exercise, socialise, and enjoy fresh air, training, and play. Are off-leash dog parks suitable for all dogs?

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  • Animal behaviour
  • Exercise
  • Pet care
  • Problem behaviours

How should I take care of my cat or dog’s teeth?

Our pets need regular and consistent dental care to make sure their teeth stay healthy and functional for as long as possible, and to prevent dental plaque and tartar/ build up and dental and periodontal disease.

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  • Dental care
  • Pet care
  • Pet owner basics
  • Veterinary care
dog in office

What should I consider before taking my dog to the office?

Dogs in the office Companion dogs can benefit the physical and mental health of people. Having companion dogs in an office can be a very positive experience in the working environment for both workers and the dogs!

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  • Pet care
happy border collie

What is Ehrlichiosis?

Ehrlichiosis is a disease primarily affecting dogs that is spread by the brown dog tick. This disease can be fatal if not properly treated, so all dog owners should take immediate steps to protect their animals. Is the disease present in Australia?

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  • Diseases
  • Fleas, ticks and worms
  • Veterinary care

What should I consider if I need to evacuate my animal in a natural disaster?

During a natural disaster such as a bushfire, extreme weather (storms, floods, heatwaves) or earthquake, it may be necessary to evacuate from your home. It is important to have an emergency plan in place which includes your animals. What should I do to prepare for an emergency?

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  • Bushfires
  • Climate change
  • Emergencies
  • Horse care
dog grooming brush with person

Why and how should I groom my dog?

Grooming the dogs in your care is important. There are health and welfare benefits over and above making their coat look great and well-cared-for. Benefits of grooming Some of the benefits are obvious such as keeping the coat tidy, removing knots, and making the coat look well-cared-for.

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  • Pet care
  • Pet owner basics
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