Q&A

QADr Huw Stacey, vet and director of clinical services at Vets4Pets, is here to answer all of your pet problems. My boyfriend and I really want a dog but I have never had a pet before – I’m worried about the commitment. How can I get any sort of experience in caring for an animal? Getting a dog is a big commitment. They usually live for up to 15 years, and will need taking care of every day with feeding, walks, letting out to the toilet and cleaning up after them. If you go on holiday you will either need to take them with you or find somewhere for them to stay. They will need annual veterinary check-ups and regular treatment for fleas and worms. If you don’t feel ready to get your own dog you could pet sit for friends, or volunteer to dog walk for a local rehoming charity.