German Shepherd Rescue
New South Wales

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Empowering Responsible Dog Ownership
Educating for Lifelong Bonds

Socialise your Puppy!

Lately, here at German Shepherd Rescue New South Wales, we have witnessed an influx of teenage dogs arriving in our care.  These dogs often lack proper socialisation and are unfamiliar with the world beyond their backyards.  As a result, they can become overwhelming for their owners, who may not have sufficient time to address the behavioural issues arising from this lack of socialisation.

We always encourage attending puppy classes that teach essential skills to both you and your puppy.  However, it is essential for owners to go beyond just puppy classes and continuously expose their pups to the outside world. By doing so, we can help raise a generation of confident and well-socialised dogs.

Below is a checklist of essential experiences your pup should be exposed to during their formative years.  Let us work together to create a generation of well-adjusted and socially adept dogs!

Senior Dogs

As dogs mature, they undergo changes reminiscent of the aging process in humans. They may develop greying hair, experience reduced reflexes, diminished hearing, and a decline in eyesight and sense of smell.

Additionally, they may exhibit a decrease in energy levels and a greater need for rest.  For large breed dogs, these signs can start to manifest around eight years old, or sometimes even earlier.  Similar to humans, the aging process varies from one dog to another.

At German Shepherd Rescue New South Wales we recognise the importance of understanding and addressing the unique needs of senior dogs as they embark on this next chapter of life.

Pets and Hot Weather

Heat stress in pets is characterised by a significant increase in body temperature, which can rapidly escalate into heatstroke, posing serious risks. 

Ensure your pets have plenty of shade and water during days of high temperatures.  Frozen ice blocks will also help to keep their water cooler for longer.

Fireworks and Storms

One of the most common phobias in animals is triggered by the loud noises of fireworks and thunderstorms.  During such distressing situations, pets may exhibit destructive behaviour, attempt to escape from their homes, and even injure themselves.

Recognizing the signs of noise phobias is crucial to providing them with the care they need.  Some of these signs include trembling, shaking, clinging to owners, excessive barking, cowering, hiding, soiling the house, pacing, panting, and refusing to eat.

Osteoarthritis

Osteoarthritis is a degenerative joint disease that involves the chronic breakdown of cartilage within the joints.  This condition leads to the loss of the cartilage cushion, resulting in bones rubbing directly against each other, causing pain and inflammation.

In many cases, osteoarthritis develops due to abnormal rubbing within the joint, often caused by joint instability (eg after ligament damage), damage to or abnormal cartilage development, or trauma-related damage (eg fractures).

Our mission is to educate pet owners about managing osteoarthritis and providing them with effective strategies to improve the quality of life for these special dogs.  Let’s work together to ensure they receive the love and attention they deserve during their journey to finding a forever home.

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