Training is an important part of any dog’s life, and is important for several reasons. It provides mental stimulation which helps to keep your dog happy, and if combined with morning exercise your dog will be mentally and physically tired at the end and far more likely to sleep during the day.

Reward-based training is enjoyable for the dog and positively enhances the relationship between the dog and handler. This approach revolves around positive reinforcement - i.e. rewarding behaviour that we like. Rewards may be in the form of a tasty food treat or verbal praise such as “good dog!” in a pleasant tone of voice, to be given when the dog performs the ‘good’ behaviour.

Reward-based training also involves generally ignoring any ‘unwanted’ behaviours. In this way, the dog is not rewarded for any unwanted behaviour. If dogs are not rewarded (i.e. receives no attention or treats) for a certain behaviour, then they tend to stop doing it.

We highly recommend booking your puppy into puppy school classes, which are an important way of socialising your puppy with other dogs. Your puppy can then use this practice and learning when they meet other dogs at the park or on walks as they grow into adult dogs. Puppies have a ‘critical socialisation period’ from about 3-17 weeks of age. This is the time when they need to socialise with other dogs in order to learn social cues and how to communicate well with other dogs.

At Baybreeze Family Vet Clinic, we run regular Puppy Pre School programs. Our programs run for four (4) consecutive weeks and if you would like to reserve a spot for you start pupil, or find our some more info on our next intake, simply get in touch: (07) 3103 8432, or info@baybreezevets.com.au.

Temperatures are starting to drop as winter approaches. It’s nearly time for crackling fires, hot drinks and warm coats! Luckily winter does not last long in Queensland, and many people believe our pets don’t need anything extra during this time, however , some of our fur babies may need an extra layer or two, especially if they are accustomed to living indoors. 

Some pets might find it a bit more challenging getting around during these colder months due to arthritis, so what can we do as pet owners to keep them safe, healthy and make their lives a little easier during the winter months? Here are our top tips! 

Better bedding:

As the weather gets cooler, you might notice your pet is spending more time snuggled up in their bed. You can make a few simple adjustments to their bedding to ensure they are properly protected from the cold. Make sure your pet’s bed is away from drafts and elevated off cold, hard surfaces. You should raise the bed off the ground and add an extra blanket for warmth and comfort. 

Keep on moving:

It's always easy to stay indoors during winter, safely snuggled under a warm blanket. But your pets still need exercise and stimulation. Keep playing indoors with soft toys or a ball to get the blood, and your pets moving!

If you are feeling brave, grab the lead, put on your winter gear and head out for a walk together! Your dog will still love the joy of their walk even if it’s a bit colder, and you will feel better for the exercise too. 

Older Pet care:

As senior dogs have more sensitive joints, and when the temperature drops, these aches and pains (like our own) can be much more painful and require more care and attention. 

Signs of pain or discomfort include stiffness, chewing or licking certain joints, difficulty walking up or down stairs, eating slowly and noticeable behavioural changes.

Pet owners should be mindful of giving them age-appropriate exercise regularly to keep their muscles supple and encourage blood circulation. 

Regular Vet Health & Wellness checks.

It's a good idea to book your pets in for a health check-up with Baybreeze Family Vet Clinic. The cold weather can lower pets’ immune system, making them more susceptible to health problems. 

For elderly pets, check-ups every six months are recommended to make sure any health problems are detected early and efficiently treated.

If you are unsure if your pet is within the healthy weight range, suffers from any joint or mobility issues, or would just like to book a general check-up, please feel free to contact us at (07) 3103 8432 or send us an email at info@baybreezevets.com.au. We would be more than happy to have a friendly chat and provide you with expert veterinary advice. 

The silly season is nearly here, and many of us will include our beloved fur babies pets in our festivities. Follow our Baybreeze Petmas Tips to help your pet have a healthy and happy festive season!

Although your pet may beg for some table scraps and human treats, keep these well away from all pets. If you want to spoil your pets, buy treats formulated just for them.

Feeding your dog foods and treats that are not formulated for them can have serious consequences such as vomiting, diarrhoea, lethargy, and in some cases, chronic breathing difficulties.

Steer away from foods such as grapes, mince pies, Christmas puddings, whole Brazil nuts, alcohol, onion, raw potato (green), turkey bones and chocolate.

Remember, always contact your Vet straight away should you think your pet is unwell.

With Easter fast approaching, you may be tempted to share some sweet treats with your beloved fur baby - DONT!

Chocolate is especially bad for your pets. Chocolate contains cocoa, and cocoa contains the compound theobromine. Theobromine is toxic to dogs and other pets in certain doses. Chocolate poisoning is a problem that occurs mainly in dogs but also occurs occasionally in cats or other animals. 

The symptoms of theobromine ingestion may include restlessness, excitement, hyperactivity, nervousness, trembling, vomiting, diarrhoea, increased drinking and increased urination, increased heart rate, muscle tremors, seizures and possibly death.

If your dog or pet has ingested chocolate (even a small amount) you should contact Baybreeze Family Vet Clinic on (07) 3103 8432, or Animal Emergency Services immediately.

We've created a special little area at Baybreeze Family Vet Clinic, where you can take a quick snap of your beloved furbaby!

Remember to upload your best photo's and tag us! @baybreezevets

We can't wait to see all of our celebs!