GM News - September 2023

It's Spring so that must mean time to spruce up!

The September edition (No. 51) is all about areas to review for the benefit of your dog.

Amanda, David, Rodna & Ruth
Gentle Modern School of Dog Training

But, first, we have a favour to ask you

David, Rodna and Amanda are currently reviewing Play+Train and working on two new group programs plus two workshops. Later this week, you may receive an invitation to an online survey asking for your input on 'old' and new GMSDT services. We would love you to complete the survey if you receive an invitation. (It's mostly 'tick-a-box' with a few opportunities to type in comments if you wish. It will take 5 - 10 minutes, depending on how much you have to say :-)

Diet

Is your dog's diet keeping up with their age?
According to Vet Dr Melissa Meehan, it’s essential to review our dog's diet as they age.
'What To Feed A Dog At Each Life Stage' by Vet Dr Melissa Meehan

Are you up to date on your dog's treat preference?
Check out the GMSDT Facebook post on identifying/testing treat preference

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Identification - Safety

Moved or changed your contact details (e.g. mobile phone number)? Did you update your pet's microchip data?
Lara Shannon in Is Your Pet’s Microchip Up To Date? explains why that's vital.
"Each chip has a unique number that is detected using a microchip scanner. The microchip number is recorded on a database registry with details about the animal and owner. Should your pet stray or become lost, vets, animal shelters and local councils can scan your pet for a microchip and contact you via the database."
Lara also suggests you ask your vet to regularly scan the chip to ensure it is readable and hasn’t moved around within your dog's body.

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Spring Checkup

Time to deep clean or replace the following dog items?

Bed and Bedding
Crate
Kennel
Toys
Bowls/Plates
Walking equipment

Spring Cleaning as a Pet Owner by Dr. Heather Berst has tips.

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Pollen, Grass Seeds, Burrs, Fleas & Ticks

Ready for allergies and pests?
Check out The Best Way to Diagnose Dog Allergies (+ mistakes to avoid)Podcast by Dr Alex Avery

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Body Language Knowledge

Where are you at with your knowledge of dog body language?
Take a quick quiz

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Skills

What skills need a refresh? New situations that need new skills?

We're always here to help :-)