RSPCA. Not just about Dogs! All creatures great and small!
Please be careful when gardening. This slow worm is doing fantastically after surgery today, having been injured by a strimmer.
Canford Heath is one of the largest remaining areas of heathland in Dorset retaining the atmosphere of a wilderness. The area is designated as a Site of Special Scientific Interest and protected under UK law and European conservation directives.
The Heath’s special wildlife includes all the British reptile species and rare birds such as the Dartford Warbler and Nightjar. Wetter areas provide a home for a range of dragonflies and special plants adapted to the wet conditions.
Special management of the Heath is necessary to maintain its conservation interest – self sown pine and birch trees would otherwise crowd out the characteristic heathers on which much of the special heathland wildlife depends.
Dogs may be required to be on lead at times on part or whole of the site, due to breeding birds and grazing animals. At other times they may be able to be off lead. Check on site for further information.
Park at the lay-by on Gravel Hill, 200m south of Poole Crematorium at Dunyeats Roundabout, Broadstone, Nr Wimborne, Dorset.
If your dog is having a fit do not interfere with or communicate with the dog.
This may prolong the fit as it is providing stimulation.
Dogs die in hot cars.
When our inspector Anthony Joynes left his car for just one hour in temperatures of 15 degrees celsius, the temperature inside soared to a staggering 43.5 degrees celsius or 110.3 fahrenheit!
“Leaving the windows open an inch would have had almost zero impact and a dog would begin to suffer very quickly in this heat. I hear it all the time: ‘It was only for five minutes’. But that is too long,” warns Inspector Anthony Joynes.
If you see a dog in a car on a warm day displaying any sign of heatstroke – such as panting heavily, drooling excessively, is lethargic or uncoordinated, or collapsed and vomiting – call 999 immediately.
A growing number of dogs are living past their mid-teens. Here are 7 factors to consider when caring for your senior canine companion.
Sweet was our border collie/pointer mix. Beyond being a wonderful companion, she lived past her 18th birthday. Quite an accomplishment, especially when you realize most dogs are considered to be a senior when they reach seven or eight – less than half Sweet’s age! She was lucky enough to have no terminal illnesses, despite her advanced age. In fact, up until the end, she had no serious or life-threatening medical conditions. She was just very, very old, and as such, required a heightened level of care, attention and patience.
By the time most dogs reach seven, they begin to slow down a little, and you must start making adjustments for them, perhaps changing the diet or exercise regime, and being more vigilant about age-related medical issues. But what about dogs that are super old, say 17 or 18 or more? In human terms, that would be well past 100! Granted, not many dogs make it that far, but some do now, thanks in part to an increased awareness of quality nutrition and the importance of exercise, as well as regular veterinary care that draws on alternative as well as conventional therapies. Of course, good genes also play a role.
Drawing from our own experiences with “Old Sweet”, I am sharing seven things to consider when caring for a “super senior”.
1. Hearing, eyesight and sense of smell: These are often the first to fail. Sweet’s hearing was almost 95% gone, although her eyesight was fine for a dog her age, keeping in mind that most older dogs develop cataracts of some sort. To get Sweet’s attention, we used hand signals and other visual prompts.
Many very old dogs are both blind and deaf, which presents a greater challenge. Just remember not to walk up on or touch the dog suddenly or from behind; if she doesn’t hear or see you coming, it could startle her.
Although smell is the strongest of canine senses, it can also diminish in a super geriatric dog. Signs include licking rather than sniffing objects. Licking compensates for a diminished sense of smell.
2. Sleep patterns: All dogs sleep a fair bit as they age, especially if they get sufficient exercise. Super old dogs like Sweet sleep at least 18 hours or more a day.
3. Oral health: It’s not uncommon for very old dogs to have dental problems and even brittle, weakened teeth. A quality natural diet and regular veterinary care are paramount to keeping the teeth and gums in as good a condition as possible. Depending on the dog’s age, and how well her teeth were cared for throughout her life, she may have to have a few extracted as she gets older.
Ensure the dog is able to chew her food adequately – you might want to switch to a high quality wet food if she has been used to eating kibble. Chew toys of any type might become less interesting to a “super senior”. Avoid giving her very hard objects, over-sized biscuits, or toys that could put a strain on aged teeth.
4. Diet: Old dogs will eat more slowly and take smaller bites. Their stomachs have changed, and rapid intake or “inhaling” of food will often cause them to vomit. Feed your old dog smaller amounts of food more often; this will be easier on her digestive system. Ensure she is eating a high quality diet, and talk to an integrative or holistic vet about any supplements that could help her stay healthy.
If your dog no longer has any desire to eat or drink at all, it may be a sign of a serious medical situation that should be addressed by a vet as soon as possible.
5. Mobility: The hind legs are often the first to go in very old dogs. Your dog may be wobbly, fall down a lot, or miss a step. Be vigilant, and patiently and gently help her to her feet. Soft massages are helpful. You can also get canine mobility aids that make walking and getting up and down easier. Keep in mind that the longer your dog can continue to stand up and walk, even if for very brief periods, the better her muscle tone and strength will remain. However, do not take her for long walks. It’s not necessary and may be too much exertion for her.
Avoid slippery floors by putting runner carpets down, so your dog gets better traction. Do not let her climb up or down stairs. One miscue and she could fall, causing life-ending injury. Small or medium-sized dogs should be carried up and down stairs, and a doggie gate installed at the top or bottom. Dogs too large to be carried (and almost none of these make it past their mid-teens anyhow) should be kept on a ground-level floor and provided with a thick, foam-type mattress in a warm place.
If your dog reaches a point where she cannot stand or walk at all, this is a significant cue that her quality of life is quickly descending, and that it may be time to say goodbye. Being able to walk and stand are fundamentally important to a dog’s well being.
6. Urination/defecation: Just like old people, a “super senior” dog will have weakened bladder and/or bowel control. Frequent “accidents” in the house are the norm. They are understandably stressful, but only love, respect and loyalty for your dog will allow you to deal with them as best you can.
Use the accidents to monitor the dog’s state of health – urine should be checked for blood, and stools should be formed and consistent. If you have to go out for a few hours, expect that she may have an accident, and confine her to a comfortable area where the mess will be easier to clean up.
Very old dogs will also have weak sphincter muscles, and are therefore more likely to have a bowel movement while asleep. Don’t crate the old-timer, as there is nothing more depleting to her dignity than creating a situation in which she has to lie in her own pee or poop.
7. Dementia: This happens to dogs too, often in subtle ways, such as standing and staring at a wall or walking around in circles. Gently try to divert your dog’s attention with a soft touch, and ensure there is nothing around the home that she could hurt herself on. Supplements such as ginkgo biloba can be helpful for dementia, but consult a holistic vet before starting your dog on anything new.
Old dogs are stoical. They don’t complain much. Good care will keep them going a long time, but when they are ready to go, you’ll see the signs. They stop eating, drinking, walking, standing or paying attention to you or their surroundings. They are letting nature take its course, and so should you, not just with heartache, but with appreciation for having had a dog blessed with super longevity.
Don’t forget the TLC
Your old dog may not lather you with kisses anymore, or even wag her tail as much as she used to. But every dog loves a gentle rub, stroke or cuddle. In fact, your love and affection are very reassuring and comforting to her. Be sure to spend some quiet quality time with her every day – it will help her feel better and happier.
Keep in mind, though, that senior dogs may become skittish around small children and playful, bouncy young dogs. Best to avoid these situations. Your “super senior” needs and deserves a life free of even minor stresses.
This is an awesome place!
It is very hard to articulate the essence of High Mead Farm in text and it’s probably best experienced in person! In a nut shell, we offer therapeutic farming which includes animal husbandry, horticulture and wood work in a nurturing environment.
High Mead Farm brings positive change to those who get involved, irrelevant of background or disability. We believe High Mead Farm offers the peace and tranquillity needed for sustainability in overall happiness, rehabilitation and recovery along with gaining new practical skills.
Our Country Fayre which is on 14th May and includes Music, wandering Magicians, pony rides, dog show, model Lego train layout, raffle, Birds of Prey, Crockery smashing, clay pit, craft stalls, fire engines, vintage tractors, lots of yummy food and drink and much much more.
A really popular day for everyone.
High Mead Farm,
Ham Lane,
Ferndown,
Bournemouth,
BH22 9DR
Visit their website. http://www.highmeadfarm.org.uk
Kingston Maurward Gardens and Animal Park. Animal Festival 8th May, 10am to 4pm.
Fun Dog Show – Starts at 12.30pm Registration from 11.30am – £1 per entry
Grooming Photo Competition Ferret Racing Pony Rides Reptile Encounters
Birds of prey Grand Raffle Pet Advice East Dorset Bat Rescue Birdline Uk
Adults £6.50
Senior Citizens £6.00
Children £4.50 (under 3s free)
Family Ticket £20 (2 Adults & 2 children)
Please go to Kingston Maurward website. www.kmc.ac.uk
What a treat at Longham Resevoirs on my Dog Walk with Archie. Just had to get a picture of these dear little goslings. What a treat to see them so close.
Archie was watching them too!
Four Paws dogs Ella and Toto our for a Dog Walk on Bank Holiday Monday at BytheWay Field, Wimborne.
We had a fantastic dog walk. Ella and Toto loved all the different terrain. Open Grassland to run about in and then the wooded area to explore. Plus lots of dogs to make friends with!
Happy Days!
Leigh Common and BytheWay Filed.
Southern Marsh Orchid, Marsh St Johns Wort and Ragged Robin are all locally rare plants found at Leigh Common, along with insects such as Long-Winged Conehead and Common blue damselfly. Look out for grey heron and swallow. Several species of Dragonfly can be found around the wet ponds and extensive ditch systems throughout the site.
Habitats Wet grassland with some areas of tree cover
Site designations
Local Nature Reserve, Sustainable Alternative Natural Green Space
Nearest bus stop Leigh Road, Wilts and Dorset bus route – information about bus services
Nearest train station Poole (6.5 miles) – information about train services
Grid reference SU 026 000.
Size 21 hectares
Parking Limited parking at BytheWay Field
Accessibility
Access to site is via squeeze stiles, some uneven narrow paths, much of the site has wooden boardwalk over boggy area. Between BytheWay and Leigh Common there is over 4km of all-weather surfaced paths which are suitable for mobility scooters, buggies and wheelchairs and form circular routes.
Facilities Benches, dog bins at main entrances
Owner Hanham Estates
Managed by Christchurch and East Dorset Countryside Team
How to get there:
From Wimborne, follow the B3073 (Leigh Road) out of Wimborne, heading east towards Canford Bottom. Turn left onto Northleigh Lane, and immediately right down an unmade road (Leigh Common) to the parking bays and entrance.
From Colehill, follow Wimborne Road towards the town centre, turn left onto Northleigh Lane, and just before you get to the end T-junction with Leigh Road (B3073) turn left onto the unmade road, Leigh Common.
Suggested Dog Walk for Today! Bluebell Wood, Wimborne. The Bluebells are out at their best now!
Walk at Pamphill and Cowgrove, Kingston Lacy.
Enjoy a gentle walk through the beautiful unspoilt villages of Pamphill and Cowgrove with good views across the Stour Valley. There are waymarks for Walk 3 on the route.
Route details
Pamphill Green, near Wimborne, Dorset, BH21 4ED
Difficulty Easy
Time 1 hour
Distance 2.8 miles (4.5 km)
MapOS Explorer 118
Dogs allowed Dog friendly
Kingston Lacy
Dorset
St Stephen’s Church, Pamphill on Kingston Lacy’s estateSt Stephen’s Church, Pamphill on Kingston Lacy’s estate
Begin trail
Start: Pamphill Green car park near St Stephen’s Church
1
Turn left out of the car park along the Oak Avenue with St Stephen’s Church at the end, then left again into Abbott Street. The path is marked as part of the Stour Valley Way.
St Stephen’s Church
St Stephen’s Church at the western end of the oak avenue is well worth a visit and is surrounded by some magnificent trees. The present church was built in 1907 to replace the medieval church, founded by John de Lacy in 1236 which gradually fell into disrepair in the 16th century. Walter Ralph Bankes made a financial bequest for a new church on the estate in his will when he died in 1904 and it was eventually built in 1907, as a memorial to him, under the leadership of Henrietta Bankes. The oak avenue was planted in 1846.
2
Adjacent to the property marked 542 Abbott Street, with the forge below, turn left down the lane known as All Fools’ Lane. After 280 metres there is a squeeze stile on the right providing the opportunity for an additional circular walk in Abbott Street Copse.
All Fools’ Lane
All Fools’ Lane links Pamphill with Cowgrove Common. All Fools’ Lane was once called All Souls’ Lane and probably changed when someone transcribing mistook the ‘S’ for an ‘F’. This lane is part of the ancient track way from Salisbury to Dorchester. Today the lane has steep banks covered with ivy and ferns, a canopy of hazel and field maple and a few elms at the bottom. A few hundred metres down the lane on the right is a stile leading to Abbot Street Copse, which is a wonderful bluebell wood.
3
Continue down All Fools’ Lane, passing prominent overspill from badger setts. The bridleway arrives at Sandy Lane, which is the road towards Cowgrove.
4
Continue down All Fools’ Lane, passing prominent overspill from badger setts. The bridleway arrives at Sandy Lane, which is the road towards Cowgrove.
5
At the bottom of All Fools’ Lane turn left on to a grassed bridleway, shortly passing through a gate. Carry straight on ignoring the squeeze stile on the left, until Cowgrove Common is reached adjacent to Poplar Farm.
6
Turn left up Holly Lane, which is adjacent to Walnut Farm and proceed past Holly Farm Cottage. Go through a squeeze stile and a gate leading to an uphill sunken lane with a gravel path. Climb up and just before the end of the gravel path climb the steps to the left and take the squeeze stile to the right. Go into the field keeping the hedgerow on your right and continue climbing over the pasture. At the top of the field to the right go through the gate by the cottage and go along a track. Walk round a gate and where the track curves round to the right turn left onto Pamphill Green.
7
Turn left up Holly Lane, which is adjacent to Walnut Farm and proceed past Holly Farm Cottage. Go through a squeeze stile and a gate leading to an uphill sunken lane with a gravel path. Climb up and just before the end of the gravel path climb the steps to the left and take the squeeze stile to the right. Go into the field keeping the hedgerow on your right and continue climbing over the pasture. At the top of the field to the right go through the gate by the cottage and go along a track. Walk round a gate and where the track curves round to the right turn left onto Pamphill Green.
Holly Farm Cottage
This 16th century, single-storey, thatched cottage with attics is an open hall house with cross passage and contains many internal features of historic interest. The building is timber-framed with brick infill.
8
On reaching the green go to the left and make your way towards the oak avenue and the car park where you started.
This was known as Fayres’ Green in the 1400s because of the fairs held every September from the 13th century. These fairs were where livestock, wines, beers, food, clothing and domestic articles were sold. To the south a dense screen of trees and bushes largely conceals Pamphill Manor. The white-painted gateway reveals more of this fine 17th century onward house, which is of outstanding architectural importance. It was the home of the steward to Sir Ralph Bankes of Kingston Lacy, Matthew Beethall, who made a number of changes.
Pamphill Green and Manor
This was known as Fayres’ Green in the 1400s because of the fairs held every September from the 13th century. These fairs were where livestock, wines, beers, food, clothing and domestic articles were sold. To the south a dense screen of trees and bushes largely conceals Pamphill Manor. The white-painted gateway reveals more of this fine 17th century onward house, which is of outstanding architectural importance. It was the home of the steward to Sir Ralph Bankes of Kingston Lacy, Matthew Beethall, who made a number of changes.
End: Pamphill Green car park near St Stephen’s Church.
You made it!
