Wednesday, 7 September 2016

Weds 7th Sep: Beware of leptospirosis

Clyde says yep, this is MY family
I'm thinking of changing the name of our Homing Centre to Noah's Ark if this rain doesn't stop soon, but at least it didn't prevent a lovely family coming to meet the dogs at Tai Po and leaving with sweet and beautiful Clyde.  The photo says it all really, a happy dog proudly showing off that he has been chosen.  This is such a great moment for all of us, as well as each dog that is lucky enough to be picked out from so many to find that loving and forever home.  Thank you to each and every person or family who chooses to give a dog a second chance rather than supporting the horrible pet trade by buying.

Apart from the obvious misery of the non-stop rain there has been another side effect which has resulted in the tragic deaths of previously healthy dogs as they fell victim to leptospirosis.  I don't know if it's an actual fact, but it seems to me that every year there are more cases and in  different locations.  In previous years the disease, which is spread via the urine of rats, was found mostly in the Peak and Pokfulam areas, carried down from the mountain via the many streams.  Now I'm hearing of cases, and deaths, in Sai Kung and other areas, and although specific leptospirosis vaccinations are available which cover other strains not included in the basic 5-in-1 vaccinations, I would highly recommend staying away from fresh water sources rather than relying on such vaccinations.  Some of the dogs who have died had been vaccinated so it's not foolproof by any means.  My heart goes out to those who have lost their beloved dogs so suddenly and horribly, and it's just not worth the risk.

At this grooming workshops dogs were also participants
On Saturday our Ap Lei Chau Homing Centre Manager, Iris Wu, held a Grooming Skills Workshop which included both owners and their dogs. This was the first time we have invited dogs to join an entirely hands-on grooming class where Iris demonstrated practical skills such as shaving,  brushing teeth and nail trimming. She had also prepared individual sets of basic grooming tools for all participants to use during the workshop and also as a gift to take away. It was an intentionally small class of  only nine people and their own dogs, to make sure everyone received Iris's full attention and guidance. Some dogs even fell asleep during the grooming session because they were so relaxed and comfortable.  Special thanks to WOW Pet Shop for providing the wonderful venue for our entire workshop series. 

Nail clipping doesn't have to be traumatic

Iris is an experienced groomer

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