How can I stop my spaniels fighting?

I RECENTLY got two 12-week-old Cocker Spaniels, Charlie and Lola, but they fight quite a lot. Sometimes they even break each other’s skin and bleed. How can I stop them doing this?

BECAUSE they are only young this could be part of their play-fighting, but they should be able to communicate with each other to signal when the play-fighting is getting too rough. As this is causing injury, this needs to be addressed. They may be competing for resources within the house, so make sure they have at least one each of everything, including beds, toys and feeding bowls. You should feed them separately too. It is important that they are both exercised very regularly, to reduce their pent-up energy. Because this behaviour can potentially become serious, I would recommend getting professional advice from your veterinary practice or visit the website of the Association of Pet Behaviour Counsellors (www.apbc.org.uk).

I HAVE recently got a horse named Belinda. She is kept in a stable but I’m worried she will be too cold as she spends a lot of time outside in the field. Does she need a coat to keep her warm in the winter weather? PROVISION of a shelter, such as the stable, is the most important thing horses need in cold weather so you need to make sure they are clean, warm and draught-free. Be careful if it rains, especially if she is wearing a coat. Some coats can actually absorb and hold water and a wet horse is much more susceptible to the cold. You need to provide her with a waterproof

blanket and at least a shelter where she can get out of the wet weather. There should be lots of bedding. Other things you should bear in mind are Belinda’s diet during the winter to ensure she has enough energy to stay warm, and making sure her drinking water doesn’t freeze. If you ride your horse, then consider your schedule. Your horse will obviously need exercise, but avoid areas that are icy. Deep snow can also hide hazards.

I HAVE a two-year-old Chinchilla called Alfie. We were told he would be nice and friendly when we bought him, but whenever we get him out of his cage he scratches and bites.

How can we get him used to being handled? CHINCHILLAS rarely bite so this could indicate Alfie is feeling stressed and overwhelmed. Over time, you can work to get him used to being handled. Always approach him slowly and quietly and avoid ‘swooping’ down from above, or behind, as your hand could seem like a predator! Start by placing small pieces of his favourite food in front of him, then offering it from your fingers. When Alfie is comfortable with this, offer the food from your palm so that he has to step onto your hand to take it. Repeat this process every day until he seems more confident. It may take a few weeks, but eventually he should be happy to be picked up gently in cupped hands. Also, Chinchillas are very social animals, so I would recommend considering getting a friend for Alfie.