Q Why do male dogs pee against vertical objects such as trees or fence posts, without actually leaning against them?
SB, Surrey
A For dogs, the vertical surface acts as a visible landmark for scent marking. Other dogs know to check such objects for traces of a passing dog. Most dogs are as happy on three legs as four so they have no desire to lean on anything.
Q We have inherited a 10-year-old collie; she has to be ambushed to put her collar on and she refuses to walk anywhere. Is she too old to get used to a lead now?
CGC, via email
A She can still be retrained, but you must be patient. A head halter often works better than a collar – give her treats and praise as you put it on, and take it off after a minute. Repeat this several times daily. Once she accepts it, start with 30-second walks. Dogs are never too old to learn new tricks.
Q My cat has daily drops for arthritis and needs a check-up every six months. The cost of this, along with routine care, such as flea prevention/wormers, adds up. Do you think vets’ fees discourage people from properly looking after pets?
KH, via email
A Animal medicine regulations aim to achieve a balance: ensuring that medicines are not given inappropriately while not insisting on unnecessary check-ups. If anyone has financial difficulties, it’s worth talking to your vet about budget options.
A cat-friendly cardboard box
(Make Them Roar)
Cats love cardboard boxes, and a new idea develops this theme. The cat caravan is a custom-designed cardboard playhouse to entertain indoor cats.
To support this project via a Kickstarter campaign, visit kickstarter.com/projects/catcaravan/cat-caravan
Rescue Us
Six-year-old Daisy and Muffin would like to be homed together. Contact 01825 741349 or visit cats.org.uk.
To find out the outcomes of the rescued pets featured in this column, see petsubjectsrescue.petethevet.com
Send pet problems to pete.wedderburn@telegraph.co.uk. All sick animals should, of course, be taken to a vet.
