Q: We have three teenage children who have finally persuaded us to get a family dog. The Catalan sheepdog is a breed that appeals to us. Are there any health or other issues that we should know about?
JS, London
A: The Kennel Club website has information on every breed. Catalan sheepdogs do not suffer from any major health issues but it’s recommended that dams and sires have their hips and eyes tested before they’re used for breeding.
Q: When we took our two semi-feral cats to the vet to be neutered, one escaped, and has still not come home after two weeks. What can we expect the vets to do to remedy the problem that they've created?
RM, Scotland
A: The vets should make reasonable efforts to trace your cat, such as displaying posters in the area and using local newspapers and radio. Legally, you are entitled to a new cat, but hopefully your cat will turn up. If not, most practices would make a gesture of goodwill such as offering free vaccinations for any replacement cat.
Q: I’ve heard that rabbits often have dental problems. What can I do to prevent this in Ellie, my mini-lop rabbit?
KJ, Oxford
A:Rabbits’ teeth never stop growing, and abnormal wear or crooked growth can cause problems. Get Ellie’s diet right: good-quality grass and hay to provide fibre and mineral particles that keep the cheek teeth worn down. Use a pelleted diet, rather than a muesli-style one .
Wanted: Animal Charity Heroes
Nominations for the 2015 Animal Charity Awards, sponsored by Petplan and the Association of Dogs and Cats Homes, close on February 13. To nominate, visit petplan.co.uk/charityawards.
Rescue pet of the week
Bonnie is a three-year-old black Labrador who is good with other dogs. Contact Janet on 01923 446785 or visit labrador-lifeline.com
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.
