Category: Community Stories

Featuring stories from real pet owners and resources for all thing pets

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Community Stories

Aon’s Happy Tales: Gimmegizmothecorgi

Life is full of surprises, ups and downs, and in-betweens. But never fear, your doggo companion is here! The growing pains of being a dog owner are so rewarding when seeing your fur kid prancing around with its fellow furiends. That is what Xinyi, pawmom to her Pembroke Welsh Corgi, Gizmo, believes in.

A Corgi’s odyssey

Xinyi first saw Gizmo from an Australian breeder, Nireno Kennels. Due to COVID-19 restrictions last year, she wasn’t able to meet him physically. However, the distance didn’t stop her from finding ‘the one’! 

Named after the 1984 movie Gremlins, Gizmo is just as adorable as his namesake. Attention-seeking by nature, he craves all the scratches and cuddles that he can get, and has grown to love his hoomans much more than his fur friends. “He is living true to his name!”, says Xinyi. 

@gimmegizmothecorgi having the time of his life playing tug of war

Gizmo is a true fighter, and he channels that fighting spirit when it comes to his favorite game, tug of war. He’ll go at it with anyone — even if they’re twice his size!

While he loves to play rough, that doesn’t mean he can’t relax and have a good time. Beyond all that roughhousing, he really enjoys long walks at the park or getting all dirty and muddy at the beach. 

Every week, Xinyi looks forward to planning social events for her rambunctious fur kid. “We try to let him experience new things and activities as much as we can so that we can create many happy memories with him.”

@gimmegizmothecorgi loving his water activities

Pushing through the rainy days

When Gizmo was taken for a DNA test, he was found to be at an increased risk for Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD) which is a common health issue amongst Corgis. Other serious health issues include hip dysplasia, epilepsy and degenerative myelopathy.

A pawrent’s biggest fear is to see their fur kid(s) getting sick — and this came true when Gizmo had a health scare last year. He has since made a full recovery but the incident convinced Xinyi to get Gizmo insured due to his hefty hospitalization bills.

“Most comprehensive in terms of his needs”

Xinyi went on a hunt for the best insurance plan out there and found AON Happy Tails, known for their comprehensive insurance policy for pets!

Happy Tails is the only pet insurance company that covers specified hereditary and congenital conditions — “which is helpful for us as Gizmo is at risk of IVDD and prone to congenital conditions like Hip Dysplasia,” said Xinyi.

Additionally, pups between the age of sixteen weeks and four years enjoy a lifetime co-insurance of 20%. This means 80% of the incurred expenses are covered. Enrolling your pups at a young age means they get to enjoy better co-insurance coverage – isn’t that fantastic?

“I think it provides us with a peace of mind, and means that our fur babies get to enjoy their life to the fullest without us having to worry about the ‘what-ifs’,” Xinyi added.

*Bonus Content*

If Gizmo could speak hooman for 7 days, what would you say to him? Or do with him?

“I would love to be able to travel overseas with him, and to let him explore the different sights, attractions, and food other countries have to offer. If he can speak hooman he will definitely be talking non-stop about his favorite country and food, and also making a lot of friends all around the world!”

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Community Stories

Aon’s Happy Tales: The Golden Shayne

Finding your best friend makes the world a brighter place. Especially when he comes in the shape of the cutest Golden Retriever. The epitome of sunshine, the fun-loving star isn’t only a bundle of joy to be around – he’s a star too! Shayne just wrapped up filming a Mediacorp drama, so look out for him gracing your screens soon. 

Photo by @GoldenShayne

Love At First Click 

Livia first saw Shayne online. After doing rounds of extensive research, Livia first laid eyes on her best friend to-be through videos of Shayne playing in his dog pen with all his toys. She knew he was the one when he calmed immediately when a human would pet him. 

“He looked so calm and enjoyed the stroke of human touch. I knew instantly he was the one when I couldn’t stop sharing the videos of Shayne with my loved ones,” exclaimed Livia. 

That was all it took for Shayne to be flown to Singapore to his forever home. 

Photo by @GoldenShayne

A Ray of Sun-‘Shayne’ 

Shayne, a bundle of joy and a whole lot of energy, loves to swim. His pawparents encourage his passion for the waves, bringing him to frequent swimming sessions on the weekends. He also goes for playdates with the dogs next door and visits pet-friendly cafes – Livia wasn’t kidding when she said he was outgoing and energetic! 

Even so, enjoying quiet time as a family is something treasured between this paw family too. 

“My partner and I will usually watch Netflix on the sofa together after a long day of work and Shayne will lean on us as we watch TV,” said Livia. 

“Shayne even watched TC too! Especially when he sees dogs going after a ball or a toy. He will stand right in front of the TV to have a closer look if he needs to ‘inspect’ what’s going on.” 

Photo by @GoldenShayne

Worries, Prevention and Protection 

For a dog like Shayne, one of the biggest fears Livia faces is potential hip problems that would affect his active lifestyle. 

Despite getting good hip scores as a puppy, hip dysplasia is common amongst Golden Retrievers and Livia doesn’t want to leave anything to chance. 

“We took preventative measures to minimize his risk when he was barely five months old. We took him to a vet and did a JPS surgery, an early intervention procedure that significantly reduces the chances of hip problems,” said Livia. 

The medical costs for procedures like hip replacements now are very costly. Livia and her partner decided on getting pet insurance to avoid financial worries becoming a factor in deciding between having treatment – anything that can be done for their furkid in the future was important. 

“It gives us peace of mind when the pet insurance provides a comprehensive cover, which is what HappyTails does. Even for hip dysplasia,” said Livia. 

When Shayne visited the vet a few months ago, his hips were thankfully in good condition and he doesn’t look like he’ll be in any danger anytime soon. This ball of sunshine can play to his heart’s content. 

*Bonus Question*

If Shayne could speak hooman for 7 days. What would you say to her for that week?

“I would want to tell Shayne to trust that we will give him the best life we could give to him! To tell him how much we love him and how much joy and laughter he’s brought into our lives! We are very grateful that he is the one.”

“We want to hear how he feels about us too!” 

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Brand Highlights Community Stories

The Pawfect Weekend with Your Dog

This article is brought to you by Pets Club SG.

Picture this: You’ve spent the past five days waking up at sunrise, leaving your best friend at home while you travel to your office, and come home at sunset with only enough time to share an intimate dinner with them and call it a night. Friday comes around and you ask yourself, “What should I do with my dog this weekend?” Look no further, because here’s how you can make the most of your free time, and plan the pawfect weekend with your doggo.

Socialising 

You got a friend in you, so bring your pawpal with you! Grab your dog, grab a leash, and make some new friends at Singapore’s many parks. The Singapore Botanic Gardens come with many slopes and fields for your pawpal to roll around and nom on grass. Within the park, there’s also a long hill that faces the Shaw Foundation Symphony Stage, where you can have your own picnic and bask in the sense of community.

Photo by mentatdgt

Singapore’s Garden City energy also has a coastline! Take your doggo down south to Marina Barrage and let them run in the vast open plains with the sea breeze behind their tail. Chase kite tails (and dog tails) with the other pawpals and watch their eyes light up, enjoying their freedom to roam after a whole week in an apartment.

Adventure

Worn out from the monotony of 21st Century Civilisation? Take a break from the city and explore the road less travelled — literally! Singapore’s many hiking trails are sure to bring you and your doggo closer to nature. Walk down The Green Corridor, an abandoned railway track full of colonial-era artefacts only visible to those with a keen eye.If your sea legs are up for the challenge, why not hit the beach and rent a kayak? Oar in hand and doggo on board, you can join kayak tours to explore Singapore’s mangroves and river biomes that host a myriad of flora and fauna. With experienced Kayak guides leading the way, you’ll be shore to have a fun time!

Photo by Lotta Tamminen on Unsplash

Homebodies

Retreating into the comfort of your own home might just be the best way to unwind from work. Cosy up under the covers and grab a remote, you and your doggo can binge some movies together! A home is a safe space after all, and if you aren’t using it to unwind, what are you waiting for? Spoil your furbaby even more with a home-cooked meal to munch on while watching. No matter how you look at it, they’ll get to enjoy good food AND quality time together, so it’s an absolute win.

Photo by Bethany Ferr

If you haven’t had the time to train your pupper, you could take the weekend to bond with them. Get them used to potty training and discipline, or just teach your ol’ doggo some new tricks! Paw-sitive reinforcement by rewarding good behaviour makes it easier for your pawpal to get accustomed to their new changes. Use a treat that you know they will like to get better results. For everything else, Bronco’s flavoured jerkies are a sure-fire way to capture their attention. Made with Vitamin E, inulin, and real meat, every bite delivers a burst flavour that guarantees a stronger digestive system. Present these affordable oven-cooked treats, and your pawpal will be excitedly waiting for your next instruction before you know it!

Cover Photo by Sam Lion

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Community Stories

Aon’s Happy Tales: Ronin.the.kitty

Healthcare is confusing. And expensive. And scary. It’s a herculean task to wrap your head around what you need, what you’re insured for, and what to do if an emergency happens. But there’s a reason why we still do it – to avoid having to do them after something unfortunate happens. Insurance is essential for us, but it’s equally crucial for our furkids. Systems and software engineer Yi Ling, a lover of cuddles, takes us through her journey with her pawpal Ronin who isn’t a fan of said cuddling time. “She kicks us away when we cuddle her for too long,” said Yi Ling. “She gets away with it though because she’s so cute.”

Getting Through Together

The pair first met when Yi Ling adopted Ronin in a foster home. The chubby cat had fallen off a moving lorry during a rainy day but thankfully left unscathed. Now, after spending 2 whole years together thanks to the pandemic and working remotely, Yi Ling knows the ins and outs of her furkid’s personality. Her feisty personality, coupled with a weakness for feathers and food are but some of the main traits that stand out.

Yi Ling and her one and only Ronin

Once every morning and evening, Yi Ling feeds Ronin furosemide drops and Vetmedin pills to treat her heart failure. When the medication first started, the brazen cat disliked it so much she went as far as knocking over two full bottles worth of furosemide. “Now, she just drinks it up and even takes the pill herself,” said Yi Ling proudly. 

Even though the vet has advised that Ronin refrain from strenuous activity, nothing can stop her from doing the zoomies at night and going absolutely ham on any bird toy in sight. “When she starts panting, that’s when we know it’s time to stop playing,” said Yi Ling. These days, Ronin has been speeding around less and likes to keep busy while still being on her belly.

Putting The Best Paw Forward

On the 7th of November last year, Yi Ling’s father noticed Ronin coughing badly and whining. When she arrived home to Ronin, the coughing and wheezing had not stopped and Yi Ling quickly rushed her to the Emergency Room. “It was a scary experience, the nurse told me that Ronin wasn’t looking good,” she recalled. “I signed a form consenting to CPR if necessary, and even though it was super expensive, I knew I had to sign it.” 

Thankfully, CPR wasn’t needed. But even then, the bill amounted to close to three grand. Yi Ling laughed it off saying “I’ve never even spent this much on my own bills!” Following the medical scare, Ronin now goes for check-ups and medication that cost about $400 each time. The vet says that pets with cognitive heart failure cannot live long but it’s been 8 months since her diagnosis and Ronin’s condition is improving. 

“We are just hoping that she stays happy and lives as long as possible!” 

Ensuring And Enduring

Even though it seems hard for Ronin to get insured now as she isn’t microchipped if there’s a suitable plan, Yi Ling would get one. “Every paw-rent should get a plan with good coverage.” Not only does pet insurance secure the well-being of your pet if something were to happen, but it also provides peace of mind for owners at a time you already have so much to worry about. 

“Pets can’t speak like humans so I know how aggravating it can get for the owner when they see their pet suffering. At the A&E, there were a few owners bawling and it was so scary,” said Yi Ling. “At these moments, having to worry about money is the last thing you want.” 

*Bonus Question*

Say Ronin could speak hooman for 7 days. What would you say to her for that week?

“Do you like me or my husband more?”

“I would ask her how she really is, how effective the medicine is, and if she was in pain. Would she rather us save her or let her go? I would ask her what’s her favourite food and make her agree to cuddle with me more to exchange for her favourite food haha. Also, whether she likes me or my husband more!”

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Community Stories

How to Protect Your Dog from External Parasites

As a pet owner, it’s important to be aware of the many risks that your dog faces on a daily basis. While you may take steps to protect them from dangers like cars and other animals, you may not be as aware of the threat that parasites pose.

External parasites are tiny creatures that live on the surface of your dog’s skin and hair. While they’re generally more of a nuisance than a health risk, some types of external parasites can transmit diseases to your dog or cause irritation and discomfort.

There are several steps you can take to protect your dog from external parasites. Regular grooming is an important part of keeping your dog healthy and free of parasites, and there are also various products available that can help to repel or kill parasites.

If you’re concerned about external parasites, talk to your veterinarian. They can help you to identify any parasites your dog may have and recommend the best course of treatment.

Steps You Can Take to Protect Your Dog

One of the best ways to protect your dog from external parasites is to groom them regularly. This will help to remove any parasites that are already on your dog’s skin and hair, and it will also make it more difficult for new parasites to take up residence.

Brushing your dog’s fur on a daily basis is a good way to keep their coat healthy and free of debris, and it will also give you a chance to check for any signs of parasites. If you notice anything unusual, such as excessive scratching, bald patches, or skin irritation, take your dog to the vet for a check-up.

In addition to regular grooming, there are also various products available that can help to protect your dog from external parasites. These include topical treatments that can be applied to your dog’s skin and oral medications that can be given on a monthly basis.

Topical treatments usually come in the form of spot-on products that are applied to the back of your dog’s neck. They work by releasing a small amount of insecticide onto your dog’s skin, which then spreads over their body and provides protection from parasites.

Oral medications are usually given once a month and work by killing any parasites that may be present in your dog’s system. These products are usually available from your vet or pet store, and it’s important to follow the instructions carefully to avoid giving your dog too much medication.

Dangers of Not Protecting Your Dog From External Parasites

While external parasites are generally more of a nuisance than a health risk, there are some dangers that you should be aware of.

Some types of external parasites can transmit diseases to your dog. The most common is Lyme disease, which is caused by ticks. Lyme disease can cause a range of symptoms, including fever, joint pain, and fatigue. If left untreated, it can lead to serious health problems.

External parasites can also cause irritation and discomfort for your dog. This is usually the result of bites from fleas or mites, and it can lead to excessive scratching and hair loss. In severe cases, parasites can also cause anemia due to blood loss.

If you suspect that your dog has any type of parasite, it’s important to take them to the vet for a check-up. They will be able to diagnose the problem and recommend the best course of treatment.

Preventing Your Dog From Getting External Parasites

The best way to protect your dog from external parasites is to prevent them from getting them in the first place. There are a few simple steps you can take to reduce the risk of your dog picking up parasites:

– Keep your yard clean and free of debris. This will make it less attractive to fleas, ticks, and other parasites.

– Treat your home for fleas and ticks on a regular basis. This will help to reduce the risk of your dog coming into contact with these pests.

– Check your dog for parasites after they’ve been outside. This is especially important if they’ve been running through tall grass or woods, as these are prime habitats for ticks.

– Take your dog to the vet for regular check-ups. This will help to identify any problems early and give you the opportunity to treat them before they become serious.

Following these simple steps, you can help to protect your dog from external parasites and keep them healthy and happy. Stay safe!

Photo by Caleb Fisher on Unsplash

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Community Stories

How to Socialize Your Dog Properly

Dogs are social creatures by nature, and as such, it is important to socialize them properly from a young age. Socialization means exposing your dog to a variety of people, places, and situations in a positive way so that they learn to cope with the world around them confidently.

Unfortunately, not all dogs are properly socialized. This can lead to a number of behavioral problems, including fearfulness, aggression, and separation anxiety. It can also make it difficult for your dog to enjoy activities like going for walks, visiting the dog park, or even just meeting new people.

The good news is that socialization is something you can work on at any age. If your dog is not properly socialized, there are a number of things you can do to help them become more comfortable with the world around them.

Here are a few tips on how to socialize your dog properly:

1. Start early

The best time to socialize your dog is when they are a puppy. Puppies are typically more open to new experiences than older dogs, and they learn best through positive reinforcement. If you wait until your dog is older to start socializing them, it will be more difficult and may take longer for them to adjust.

2. Be patient

Remember that socialization is a gradual process. Don’t try to force your dog into situations they are not ready for or push them beyond their comfort level. Instead, take things slowly and let your dog dictate the pace.

3. Use positive reinforcement

When introducing your dog to new people, places, or things, make sure to use positive reinforcement such as treats, praise, and petting. This will help your dog associate these experiences with something pleasant and make it more likely that they will want to repeat the experience.

4. Socialize in small steps

Don’t try to do too much too soon. If your dog is having a difficult time adjusting to a new situation, break it down into smaller steps that they can handle. For example, if you’re taking them to the dog park for the first time, start by walking around the perimeter of the park before letting them off-leash to play.

5. Seek professional help

If you’re struggling to socialize your dog on your own, seek out professional help from a behaviorist or trainer. They will be able to assess your dog’s individual needs and create a customized socialization plan that will help them learn to cope with the world around them.

6. Be consistent

Once you start socializing your dog, it is important to be consistent. This means exposing them to a variety of people, places, and things on a regular basis. If you only take them to the dog park once in a while, they will not get the full benefit of the experience.

7. Have realistic expectations

Socialization is an ongoing process that takes time, patience, and consistency. It is not something that can be achieved overnight. Be patient and keep up the good work, and you will eventually see results.

8. Keep up with vaccinations

When socializing your puppy, make sure they are up to date on their vaccinations. This will help protect them from disease and make sure they are able to safely interact with other dogs.

9. Avoid forceful methods

There are a number of forceful methods often used in an attempt to socialize dogs, such as alpha rolls, scruff shakes, and intimidation. These methods are outdated and can actually do more harm than good. They can damage the bond between you and your dog and make it harder for them to trust you.

10. Be prepared for set-backs

Even if you’re doing everything right, there may be times when your dog takes a step back in their socialization progress. This is normal and to be expected. Just remain patient and keep up with the good work, and they will eventually get back on track

Socializing your dog is an important part of responsible pet ownership. It helps them to lead a happy and healthy life by reducing stress, anxiety, and aggression. It can also make it easier for you to take them places without having to worry about them becoming agitated or aggressive. With a little time, patience, and consistency, you can socialize your dog properly and help them to enjoy a fuller, richer life.

Photo by Chewy on Unsplash

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Community Stories

10 Reasons Why Greyhounds Make Great Pets

There are many reasons why greyhounds make great pets. They are gentle, loving, and loyal dogs that make great companions. They are also relatively easy to care for and train. Additionally, they do not require a lot of exercise and can be content with a short daily walk or run.

Here are ten reasons why greyhounds make great pets:

1. Greyhounds are gentle and loving dogs that make great companions.

2. They are relatively easy to care for and train.

3. Greyhounds do not require a lot of exercise and can be content with a short daily walk or run.

4. They are quiet dogs that do not bark excessively.

5. Greyhounds are clean dogs that do not shed much hair.

6. They are intelligent dogs that can be easily trained to perform tricks or obedience commands.

7. Greyhounds are good watchdogs as they will alert you if someone is approaching your home.

8. They are low-maintenance dogs that do not require a lot of grooming.

9. Greyhounds are typically healthy dogs that do not have many health problems.

10. They are loyal dogs that will form a close bond with their owners.

Why You Should Get a Greyhound

If you are looking for a gentle, loving, and loyal dog that makes a great companion, then a greyhound may be the perfect pet for you. They are relatively easy to care for and train, and they do not require a lot of exercise. Greyhounds make great watchdogs and are typically healthy dogs that form a close bond with their owners.

Things You Should Know About Greyhounds

Before getting a greyhound, there are a few things you should know about these dogs. Greyhounds are high-energy dogs that need daily exercise. They also need a lot of space to run and play. Additionally, they should not be left alone for long periods of time as they can become anxious and destructive.

While greyhounds make great pets, they are not the right dog for everyone. If you are looking for a low-maintenance pet that does not require a lot of exercise or space, then you should consider another breed of dog. However, if you are willing to provide your greyhound with the daily exercise and attention they need, then you will be rewarded with a loyal and loving companion.

Adopting a Greyhound

If you are interested in adopting a greyhound, there are a few things you need to know. First, you will need to find a reputable greyhound rescue or adoption agency. Next, you will need to fill out an application and undergo a home visit. Once your application is approved, you will be able to adopt a greyhound of your own.

When adopting a greyhound, be sure to ask about their care requirements and whether they have any special needs. For example, some greyhounds may require daily medication due to allergies or other health conditions. Additionally, be sure to ask about the adoption fee as this can vary depending on the rescue or adoption agency.

Caring for Your Greyhound

Once you have adopted your greyhound, there are a few things you need to do to ensure they are healthy and happy. First, you will need to provide them with a nutritious diet and plenty of fresh water. Next, you will need to exercise them daily. This can be done by taking them for walks, runs, or playing fetch in your backyard. Additionally, you should take them to the vet for regular check-ups and vaccinations.

Greyhounds are gentle, loving, and loyal dogs that make great pets. If you are willing to provide them with the exercise and attention they need, then you will be rewarded with a lifelong companion.

Photo by S J on Unsplash

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Community Stories

Dog health: 10 things you didn’t know

Just like humans, dogs need to maintain their health in order to live long and happy lives. Though they may not be able to tell us when something is wrong, there are some things we can do to help them out. Here are 10 things you may not have known about dog health.

1. Dogs can get sunburned

Dogs with short or no fur are especially susceptible to sunburn. Be sure to apply doggy sunscreen before taking your pup out for a walk on a sunny day!

2. Dogs can get colds, too

Just like people, dogs can catch colds. Symptoms include sneezing, coughing, and a runny nose. If your dog is showing these signs, take them to the vet.

3. Dogs need dental care, too

Brushing your dog’s teeth regularly is important for their overall health. Without proper dental care, dogs can develop gum disease and other oral health problems.

4. Dogs can get gingivitis

Gingivitis is a form of gum disease that is common in dogs. Symptoms include bad breath, swollen gums, and bleeding gums. If not treated, gingivitis can lead to more serious oral health problems.

5. Dogs need exercise

Exercise is important for all dogs, regardless of age or breed. A good amount of daily exercise will help keep your dog healthy and fit.

6. Dogs can get obesity

Just like humans, dogs can become obese if they eat too much and don’t get enough exercise. Obesity can lead to a number of health problems in dogs, including diabetes, joint problems, and respiratory difficulties.

7. Dogs can get arthritis

Arthritis is a common problem in older dogs. Symptoms include pain, stiffness, and difficulty moving. If you think your dog may have arthritis, take them to the vet for a diagnosis.

8. Dogs can get cancer

Cancer is a leading cause of death in dogs. Though there is no sure way to prevent cancer, early detection is key. Be sure to take your dog to the vet for regular check-ups and watch for any changes in their health.

9. Dogs can get heart disease

Heart disease is a common problem in dogs, especially older ones. Symptoms include coughing, fatigue, and difficulty breathing. If you think your dog may have heart disease, take them to the vet for a check-up.

10. Dogs need regular vet check-ups

Regular vet check-ups are important for all dogs. This is the best way to ensure that your dog is healthy and to catch any problems early. Be sure to take your dog to the vet at least once a year for a check-up.

What you can do to prevent common dog health issues

One of the products that can greatly benefit your dog’s health, especially at an old age, is CBD oil. CBD oil is known to help with pain relief, anxiety, and even cancer. If you are looking for a natural way to help your dog’s health, CBD oil is a great option. You can purchase CBD oil online or at some pet stores. Just make sure to get a high-quality oil that is specifically for dogs.

There are also some things you can do to help prevent common dog health issues. For example, feeding your dog a healthy diet and making sure they get enough exercise can help prevent obesity.

You should also keep up with their vaccinations and visit the vet for booster shots as recommended. Finally, be aware of any changes in your dog’s health and take them to the vet if you notice anything unusual.

Tips for taking care of your dog’s health

Here are some tips for taking care of your dog’s health:

1. Be sure to brush your dog’s teeth regularly.

2. Take your dog to the vet at least once a year for a check-up.

3. Keep an eye on your dog’s weight and make sure they get enough exercise.

4. Be aware of any changes in your dog’s health and take them to the vet if you notice anything unusual.

5. Keep up with your dog’s vaccinations and visit the vet for booster shots as recommended.

These are just some of the things you need to know about dog health. Be sure to talk to your vet about any concerns you have and follow their advice to keep your dog healthy and happy.

Photo by Alvan Nee on Unsplash

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Community Stories

How to Find a Rental Property for You and Your Large Dog

While living with a dog helps relieve stress, finding a rental property when you own a large breed dog can give you extra stress. It may not seem like a big deal, but being an owner of a Bernadoodle that I got from Bernedoodle puppies for sale, it took me 3 months to find a rental that allowed me to keep a large dog and also was good enough for me. So, you need to be tactful while finding a rental for you and your large dog. Here are a few pro tips that will help you do the same.

1. Increase Your Budget:

Many landlords do not prefer a tenant who has a pet. A few may also dictate a size limit on dogs between 20 to 50 pounds. That means there is an issue if you have a large breed dog. You can agree to pay a pet deposit in case the dog damages the property to ensure that the landlord agrees to give you the apartment.

2. Get a Reference:

Large dogs have a terrible reputation usually, which is why landlords often say no to them as they may destroy or ruin the property. Your new landlord may give your dog a chance if it is assumed that it is not destructive. You can ask your current landlord to write a reference letter supporting your dog’s good behavior. Get written proof that the dog has completed its training classes; if it is a puppy, you have enrolled in one. Also, a letter from the vet stating you have been diligent in your pet’s medical care would reassure the landlord. It has been sterilized and vaccinated timely. This can be reassuring for the landlord.

3. Meet the Landlord with Your Well-Behaved Dog:

If your landlord gives you some time, meet your dog, and spend some time with it to understand its temperament. Once the landlord understands that your furry friend is nothing close to destructive, he or she will be convinced that you could be a potential renter.

4. Find a Pet-Friendly Locality:

If you find a house in a locality with many pets, it is easier to get a rental property there. Also, a pet-friendly locality means people around will be understanding towards the pet. You will also find dog parks nearby, which is essential when you have a large dog breed that needs a lot of exercises. You also can set up play dates for the dog as other dogs live nearby. It is a good idea for a pet owner to find a place to live as the pet parents understand the challenges of living with a dog and will not complain much if the dog barks.

5. Check the Listing Carefully:

When you search for home listings, the landlords may specify that they do not allow pets. Hence, look for properties that mention pets are allowed so that you do not have any doubts when choosing the rental property. Selling yourself and your pet to a large rental community with a no-pet policy is useless. Instead, you will be more successful if you focus on finding places that allow most pets.

6. Be Transparent About Owning a Dog:

You may feel it is easier to hide the fact that you have a dog before renting a property, but that will only increase your troubles. Moving is costly, and you do not want to get forcefully vacated because you hid facts from the owner. Hence, be transparent about your situation rather than hiding it to just get a better rental space.

7. Learn the Housing Society Rules:

Different societies make different rules for pets. You do not want to end up in a society with pet rules you would not adhere to. A few societies are more pet friendly than others. Hence, if you find one such society, do prefer that over others.

8. Get It in Writing:

Once your landlord and manager give you permission to move into the house with the pet, be sure to get it in writing. Include the pet addendum into the rental agreement to protect your pet. If the lease has a no-pet clause, but the landlord has agreed verbally, then request them to make a new agreement, clearly stating the recent agreement between you and your landlord. Be sure to discuss pet-related monthly fees in advance and put them into writing too. Get a copy of house rules for pets beforehand. Ensure the landlord that you will abide by the rules.

7. Get in Touch with Other Pet Owners:

Getting in touch with pet owners who live in rentals is helpful. Seek advice from them to understand how did they find a suitable property. They may refer you to some areas where you will find convenient rentals. They might also have contacts to help you search for a rental property.

8. Don’t Settle:

You will find a suitable property in some time if you diligently search. Research shows that dog owners like in poorer condition than non-pet owners because of limited options. But that should not be the case. Though limited, you will find better options than you expect. Do not hurry to finalize something out of panic mode. It can get frustrating, especially when you do not find a suitable property timely but be patient, and you will finalize a rental that suits you and your dog the best.

9. Get a Rental Close to Nature:

Large breed dogs need a lot of open space to run around. Living within the city means a concrete jungle everywhere. Hence, you should search for rentals in greener areas where the dog has a lot of space to enjoy. After all, it is an animal that needs to spend more time outdoors.

10. Look for Standalone Homes:

A large breed dog is not meant to be raised in an apartment where outdoor time is limited. If you rent a standalone home that has a fenced outdoor space, the dog can be outside most of the time and enjoy its life to the fullest.

The Bottom Line:

Renting a home is tough when you own a large breed dog, but it is not impossible. Many people do it; you can also figure it out if you tactfully deal with the landlord and introduce your pet as the model tenant.

Photo by Zen Chung from Pexels

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Community Stories

Aon’s Happy Tales: Dashdashingdachshund

There’s a common saying that our pets are caricatures of our character and personality. A stay-home hermit will have a low-energy furbaby who keeps them company, and a high-functioning socialite will have a pawpal who can match their energy. So what happens when you have an outdoorsy hooman who loves swimming, long walks, and a little bit of sun? Eleanor, graphic designer and pawmom, has a furry-footed answer in the form of a Dachshund named Dash.

A friend for the hard times

Eleanor’s transition to pet ownership was by no means easy. 

Despite wanting a dog at 17 years old, Eleanor was well aware that she could not afford to maintain a pet as a student. Her father was also allergic to pet fur, which was another setback for her, but that did not stop her from making preparations regardless. “After graduating, I got myself a full-time job walking dogs,” Eleanor said. “Thanks to that, I learnt to handle all kinds of dogs and even do obedience training with the ones I am in charge of!” 

Eleanor then switched from full-time dog-walking to simply volunteering at a dog rescue, when she found a new job in the office. But as work took a change of pace and commitment became difficult, she stopped volunteering altogether.

A few years after, Eleanor’s father passed. Then came the pandemic.

To cope with their loss and the anxiety from the pandemic, Eleanor and her mother felt it was time to introduce a furbaby into their family. The two went store to store looking for a puppy that the two could agree on. Their search led Eleanor to an adorable Dachshund pupper.

“It was an instant decision when I saw him interacting with his two sisters,” she said. “His sisters were barking non-stop, but Dash just quietly initiated play. He’s gentle, sticks closely to me, and is definitely the one I was looking for.” 

Knight and Shining Pupper

Dash sees all strangers as friends-to-be and approaches them as such. With dogs, he always puts his best paw forward. With humans, he asks for head rubs and belly rubs. More than anything, the Dachshund just wants to play all day. 

The doggo is a big fan of walking. “His daily routine includes hour-long walks in the neighbourhood park, playing with his best friends in the evening and chasing them around snatching sticks from them.”

“Every week, Dash gets to visit a fun place at least once. It could be dog runs, swimming at the beach, dog cafes, or just walking around Singapore’s tourist attractions. He enjoys it, and so do I.”

“One can never be too prepared”

Eleanor knows that a doggo as active as Dash runs a high risk of injury from all his running, jumping, and climbing. Her house has since been fitted with cushioned carpets and ramps to make Dash’s home environment that much safer. But one can never be too prepared, so she covered him with pet insurance. 

“I purchased Aon Happy Tails on the same day I got Dash because I knew that Dachshunds run a higher risk of inherited diseases,” Eleanor said. “Hip and spinal injuries are also highly probable, and treatment would otherwise be very expensive.” Dachshunds are predisposed to suffer from Intervertebral Disk Disease (IVDD). IVDD causes a dog’s vertebrae and discs to become brittle, running a risk of nerve damage or spinal damage similar to humans.

“Obviously, I would never hope to use these claims — I have tried very hard to stop Dash from jumping off of stairs or higher ground, but he does have a tendency to forget his training whenever his excitement gets the better of him.”

When asked about her thoughts on pet insurance as mandatory, Eleanor was quick to support the notion. “I’ve been recommending Aon Happy Tails to many Dachshund owners. Specifically, because it will help to cover the otherwise costly bill for surgeries related to spinal and hip injuries — both of which are common to the Dachshund breed.”

*Bonus Question*

Say Dash could speak hooman for 7 days. What would you say to him for that week?

“Dash speaking? If anything, he will be asking me for treats all the time and head out to find his friends! I guess I will get headaches because he is not going to stop demanding it.

Although, I would love to talk to him and negotiate terms with him ?. It will save me a lot of time on training and correcting him!”