Vet Pete Wedderburn has the answers
We have a 10-year-old crossbred golden retriever that hates sleeping indoors. I don’t mind this in the summer, but it’s getting cold now. She barks to be let out if we bring her in at night. Why does she do this and what should I do?
JB, LEICESTER
There are many possible reasons why she prefers to be outside, and it’s most likely just a personal preference. If she insists on sleeping outside, it’s difficult to stop her. Do make sure that she has a dry, cosy place she can stay in (an outhouse with bedding or an insulated kennel). Consider getting her a warm jacket for night-time wear, so that you can be reassured that she’ll be cosy and comfortable (e.g. equafleece.co.uk).
My five-year-old cat comes and goes as he wishes through the cat flap, and sometimes he’s gone for more than 24 hours. I worry about him getting into trouble over Bonfire Night with fireworks going off near him. Should I lock him in for the next week?
LP, KENT
There’s a spike in the number of missing cats and dogs on the day after Bonfire Night every year, because some pets bolt in terror at the sound of fireworks, then they lose their bearings and get lost. So yes – lock the cat flap, get a litter tray and keep him inside for the next week.
Also, these days every pet owner should ensure that their pet is microchipped and that their details are up to date on the database, in case their pet ever does get lost. This is important even if pets are kept indoors: accidents do happen, and pets can escape outside and then get lost.
WANT TO SHARE YOUR DOG’S LOVE WITH A NEIGHBOUR?
Some people love dogs but don’t have the time or space to own one full-time. Others own a dog, but worry that they don’t walk them often enough. The website borrowmydoggy. com connects these groups so they can help each other and help dogs too. There’s a free basic service or you can pay a monthly membership fee for premium benefits.
RESCUE PET
Beethoven is a lovable, friendly three-year-old German shepherd cross. Contact Bath Cats and Dogs Home on 01225 780259 or bcdh.org.uk.
To view outcomes of rescued pets, see petethevet. com/rescues
Send queries to petsubjects@ telegraph.co.uk or tweet @PeteTheVet. All sick animals should be taken to a vet