Latest news with #TheNetVet
Daily Record
29-05-2025
- Health
- Daily Record
Vet explains adorable reason dogs stretch when they see you
Dogs stretching around you should be "taken as a compliment" Does your dog do a big stretch as soon as you walk in the door? It might not be because they've just woken up or are feeling bored; it's actually a positive sign that owners should "take as a compliment". Understanding what our beloved pooches are trying to tell us can be challenging since they can't speak to us. But dogs use their entire bodies to express their emotions. Learning how your dog communicates is beneficial for recognising if they're feeling confident, relaxed, or anxious and stressed. Knowing these cues helps you better understand what your pet is attempting to convey. Vet Dr Alex Crow, Chief Veterinary Officer at The Net Vet, has shed light on this behaviour, especially when a dog greets you with "front legs out, hips up, tail wagging," which he discussed on TikTok, reports the Express. "It's not just coincidence. It's called a greeting stretch," he said. "It's more than just shaking off a nap. It's a sign that your dog feels safe, relaxed and happy that you're home," he continued. Dr Alex also mentioned that while dogs might stretch to "loosen up stiff muscles", doing so specifically when you arrive home is "intentional". He further noted: "It's their version of a calm, friendly hello and if you've ever reacted to it with praise, you've probably reinforced it without realising." Nevertheless, it's important to keep in mind that "not all stretches are about affection". A pet whose belly is low to the ground might be signalling discomfort or pain, and owners should "keep an eye" on such postures. Dr Alex mentioned: "Most of the time though it's just your dog's way of saying hello." In response to the observations, a dog owner shared in the comments section: "I always thought it was because they knew I was about to take them for a walk." Another contributed: "Yes! Every morning when I go downstairs, he is laying in his bed waiting for me and when I open the door he jumps up and does the big stretch on my foot! Gets lots of scratches then picked up for cuddles and kisses. Boston Terrier." A third remarked: "The 'big stretch' must be an international thing. We all say that in our native language, right? At least I do." Many others pointed out that cats exhibit similar behaviour. According to Hill's Pet, animals, much like humans, sometimes need to stretch their muscles. They may require a good stretch upon waking up, or it could indicate a desire to play. Pets might also elongate if they're feeling bored or are seeking attention. If this happens, consider taking them out for a walk or engaging them with playtime indoors or in the garden. However, frequent stretching could also indicate a strained muscle or joint discomfort. Your pet might be trying to ease the pain by stretching the affected area. Join the Daily Record WhatsApp community! Get the latest news sent straight to your messages by joining our WhatsApp community today. You'll receive daily updates on breaking news as well as the top headlines across Scotland. No one will be able to see who is signed up and no one can send messages except the Daily Record team. All you have to do is click here if you're on mobile, select 'Join Community' and you're in! If you're on a desktop, simply scan the QR code above with your phone and click 'Join Community'. We also treat our community members to special offers, promotions, and adverts from us and our partners. If you don't like our community, you can check out any time you like. To leave our community click on the name at the top of your screen and choose 'exit group'. If you observe a particular body part being stretched more than usual, and they seem sluggish in their movements, it could be a symptom of arthritis or joint pain, warranting a visit to the vet. This behaviour could also be associated with abdominal discomfort. In such cases, they will stretch with their backside raised, front end lowered and flat on the floor. They may maintain this position for an extended period, often when no other dogs are present. You might also notice them whimpering in pain or resisting being petted. If they arch their back into a hunched posture, it could also signify abdominal pain, which is crucial to have examined immediately.
Daily Record
06-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Daily Record
Vet shares 'doggy dementia' warning signs after death of Martin Clunes' TV pet
Sweet Dodger starred alongside Clunes in the hit Doc Martin series A vet has issued a warning to pet owners over the symptoms your dog may be suffering from dementia following the heartbreaking news that Martin Clunes' beloved dog and co-star from Doc Martin, Dodger, passed away from the condition. The 63-year-old actor fondly remembered Dodger as "fantastic" having worked alongside him in the series from 2009 until the dog's retirement in 2019. At that time, it was announced that although Dodger, who portrayed Buddy on the show, was still alive, he had been diagnosed with the condition. Dodger left the show due to the diganosis. Later, when Roman Kemp, of The One Show, asked about Dodger, Clunes responded: "Oh Dodger, oh yeah! He was fantastic, that boy. Sadly no longer with us." Dodger's death was confirmed to have occurred back in 2023, reports the Mirror. In light of this, a vet has taken to TikTok to educate pet owners on how to spot signs of dementia in their dogs. Posting on The Net Vet account, the vet asked: "Have you noticed your elderly dog acting a little confused lately? "Maybe they're wandering around like they don't quite know where they are, maybe they've forgotten that they've eaten dinner." The vet confirmed that older dogs can suffer from dementia. "It's called canine cognitive dysfunction and it's more common than people think," he added. Some signs your canine companion is suffering from "doggy dementia" may include pacing more than usual, forgetting basic commands, "or even staring at walls for no reason," the vet explained. "Some dogs will become anxious, especially at night, or become disorientated even in familiar places. "It is tough to watch and unfortunately, there is no cure, but there are some ways you can help. "Dogs with dementia need a really predictable routine, so stick to the same walking routes, the same feeding times, and even keeping furniture in the same spot can make a big difference. "Keep their brain active as well, with puzzles, toys or scent games. And of course, regular exercise is still important as it helps reduce anxiety and improve blood flow to the brain." According to Vets for Pets, nearly a third of dogs aged 11 to 12 are thought to be affected by dementia. This rises to a staggering two thirds of dogs aged 15 to 16. Other signs your dog may be suffering from dementia include sleeping more during the day and being restless and vocal during the night. They may also get lost in familiar places, exhibit changes in their behaviour (such as becoming clingy, irritable or aggressive or not greeting you the way they normally would) or go to the toilet indoors or not ask to go outside when they need to. If you're concerned about your dog, it's always a good idea to speak to a vet.
