10.06.20 June 10, 2020 Getting A Kitten

The Advantages of Microchipping Your Pet - National Microchipping Month

June is national microchipping month here in the UK, so what better time to talk about what microchipping is and the benefits? Microchipping is one of the most effective ways of protecting your dog or cat in the event that they are lost or stolen. Thousands of pets are reported missing every year and a large proportion of those are never reunited with their rightful owner. The main reason for them not making it back home is the inability to trace their family. It’s now a legal requirement that all dogs and cats in the UK are microchipped Here we take a look at all the benefits and explain why we think you should definitely get your pets, cat and dog alike, microchipped. In this article, we will explore the benefits of microchipping, the laws surrounding microchipping for different pets, the procedure itself, and how to register and update your pet's microchip details. So let's dive in and learn more about this valuable tool in ensuring the safety and well-being of our pets. Microchipping Overview A microchip is a tiny ID device which can be scanned to identify a pet They are used to identify lost or stolen pets and reunite them with their owners It’s a legal requirement for dogs over the age of 8 weeks and kittens over the age of 20 weeks to be microchipped It’s a quick procedure which is relatively painless  What Is A Microchip? Microchips are tiny devices that are the size of a grain of rice, they are implanted just below the pet’s skin, usually by your Vet. It is a very simple procedure, similar to a vaccination that needs no anaesthesia or special treatment. The microchip carries all the important information needed to trace you, the owner, should your cat or dog lose their way. These microchips can then be read by a handheld device that will display the owners information. Most veterinarians and animal shelters will have one of these devices, so the chip can be read and the owner contacted if the pet is lost. Does Getting A Microchip Hurt? Your vet will use a needle to insert the microchip so it may be a little uncomfortable for your pet, however it only take a few seconds. Many pets don’t even notice! What Pets Can Be Microchipped? A lot of pets can be microchipped, the most common ones are dogs, cats, horses and rabbits. If you’re not sure your vet will be able to advise you on whether microchipping is suitable for your pet. What Are The Microchip Laws Microchipping Your Dog Laws Microchipping your dog is compulsory in the UK, we’ve put everything you need to know about microchipping your dog below: All dogs over 8 weeks old must be microchipped As a breeder it’s your responsibility to microchip any puppies by 8 weeks old As a dog owner it’s your responsibility to make sure your dog’s microchip details are up to date As well as having up to date microchip details, your dog should wear a collar with an ID tag on. You’re required to put your surname and address on the tag, we also recommend putting a contact number and ‘I’m Microchipped’ on there just in case your dog does go missing it will hopefully make being reunited that little bit quicker. Microchipping Your Cat Laws As of March 2023, it’s now the law to get your kitten microchipped before they’re 20 weeks old. The government have given owners until 10th June 2024 to microchip their cats As an owner it your responsibility to make sure that your cat is microchipped and that your details are up to date We recommend microchipping your cat if they are either indoor or outdoor, this way if they go missing you can ensure they’re easy to identify and return home Microchipping Other Pets Laws It’s not a legal requirement in the UK to have any other pets microchipped, it’s a good thing to consider. You can microchip most pets, including rabbits, guinea pigs, tortoises and other small family pets which are known for escaping. What Happens If I Don’t Microchip My Pet? If you’re pet is found without a microchip you could be served with an order to microchip them within 21 days, if you don’t do it in that time frame you could be liable to pay a £500 fine. How Do I Get My Pet Microchipped? To get your pet microchipped all you’ll need to do is make an appointment with your vet or another qualified person, some rescue centres have trained staff who can also microchip pets. The most important thing to make sure of is that whoever is microchipping your pet is trained to do so. The Benefits of Microchipping your Pet A microchip can’t be lost - Whilst an ID tag on a collar is useful, these can be lost or break off quite easily. Some indoor pets may not even wear a collar, in which case a microchip is an ideal way of ensuring your pet is traceable. A microchip offers definitive proof - If your cat or dog is stolen, the microchip offers definitive proof of ownership. A collar can easily be swapped, but a microchip can’t be removed. Microchips have been proven to increase the likelihood of your lost pet being returned - Whilst findings vary slightly from study to study, the overall findings are the same. Microchipped pets are much more likely to be returned to their owners than none-microchipped pets. Some studies find that the chances are increased by as much 50%. Some microchips now come with added capabilities - Some chips come with the ability to program them to a pet door flap so only your pets can come and go. This is really handy to stop other animals from accessing your house. How Much Does It Cost To Microchip Your Pets? It usually cost between £10-£15 to microchip your pet, however this varies depending on where you get it done. Some charities, such as Blue Cross, actually offer microchipping for free so it’s definitely worth seeing if there’s a rescue centre local to you that has a microchipping scheme. How Do I Register My Pet’s Microchip? When your pet gets microchipped they will give the microchipping database company your details. They will ask for your name, address, phone number, pet’s details and emergency contacts. If your puppy or kitten gets microchipped by the breeder they should give you a form or contact details for the microchipping company so you can update their chip with your details. How Do I Update My Pet’s Microchip Details? If you’re moving house or change phone numbers you will need to update your pet’s microchip details. How to do this will depend on which microchip database company your pet’s microchip is registered to (you can check this on www.checkachip.com), but usually you will have an online account that you can log in to and update any details. What Should I Do If I Rehome Or Sell My Pet Before you sell or rehome your dog we recommend updating the microchip database details to the new owners. What Should I Do If My Pet Is Lost Or Stolen If your pet is lost or stolen, we recommend calling your pet’s microchip database company straight away to report them missing. They will be able to check your details are up to date and flag on the system that the pet associated with that microchip is missing. This way if their microchip is scanned by a vet or a dog warden it will alert to them they’re missing or stolen, and they will then be able to get in contact with you and reunite you with your pet. How Long Do Microchips Last For ? Microchips are designed to last your pet’s lifetime. It’s very rare for them to become faulty or not scan, if this does happen the microchip company will usually replace it for free. So what are you waiting for?! If you haven’t already got your pet microchipped, then we’d strongly suggest doing so, you never know when you’ll need it!

By Zac Girdlestone

June is national microchipping month here in the UK, so what better time to talk about what microchipping is and the benefits?

Microchipping is one of the most effective ways of protecting your dog or cat in the event that they are lost or stolen. Thousands of pets are reported missing every year and a large proportion of those are never reunited with their rightful owner. The main reason for them not making it back home is the inability to trace their family.

It’s now a legal requirement that all dogs and cats in the UK are microchipped Here we take a look at all the benefits and explain why we think you should definitely get your pets, cat and dog alike, microchipped.

In this article, we will explore the benefits of microchipping, the laws surrounding microchipping for different pets, the procedure itself, and how to register and update your pet's microchip details. So let's dive in and learn more about this valuable tool in ensuring the safety and well-being of our pets.

Microchipping Overview

A microchip is a tiny ID device which can be scanned to identify a pet
They are used to identify lost or stolen pets and reunite them with their owners
It’s a legal requirement for dogs over the age of 8 weeks and kittens over the age of 20 weeks to be microchipped
It’s a quick procedure which is relatively painless

What Is A Microchip?

Microchips are tiny devices that are the size of a grain of rice, they are implanted just below the pet’s skin, usually by your Vet. It is a very simple procedure, similar to a vaccination that needs no anaesthesia or special treatment. The microchip carries all the important information needed to trace you, the owner, should your cat or dog lose their way.

These microchips can then be read by a handheld device that will display the owners information. Most veterinarians and animal shelters will have one of these devices, so the chip can be read and the owner contacted if the pet is lost.

Ginger cat being microchipped

Does Getting A Microchip Hurt?

Your vet will use a needle to insert the microchip so it may be a little uncomfortable for your pet, however it only take a few seconds. Many pets don’t even notice!

What Pets Can Be Microchipped?

A lot of pets can be microchipped, the most common ones are dogs, cats, horses and rabbits. If you’re not sure your vet will be able to advise you on whether microchipping is suitable for your pet.

Labrador at the vets

What Are The Microchip Laws

Microchipping Your Dog Laws

Microchipping your dog is compulsory in the UK, we’ve put everything you need to know about microchipping your dog below:

All dogs over 8 weeks old must be microchipped
As a breeder it’s your responsibility to microchip any puppies by 8 weeks old
As a dog owner it’s your responsibility to make sure your dog’s microchip details are up to date
As well as having up to date microchip details, your dog should wear a collar with an ID tag on. You’re required to put your surname and address on the tag, we also recommend putting a contact number and ‘I’m Microchipped’ on there just in case your dog does go missing it will hopefully make being reunited that little bit quicker.

Microchipping Your Cat Laws

As of March 2023, it’s now the law to get your kitten microchipped before they’re 20 weeks old.
The government have given owners until 10th June 2024 to microchip their cats
As an owner it your responsibility to make sure that your cat is microchipped and that your details are up to date
We recommend microchipping your cat if they are either indoor or outdoor, this way if they go missing you can ensure they’re easy to identify and return home

Microchipping Other Pets Laws

It’s not a legal requirement in the UK to have any other pets microchipped, it’s a good thing to consider. You can microchip most pets, including rabbits, guinea pigs, tortoises and other small family pets which are known for escaping.

What Happens If I Don’t Microchip My Pet?

If you’re pet is found without a microchip you could be served with an order to microchip them within 21 days, if you don’t do it in that time frame you could be liable to pay a £500 fine.

How Do I Get My Pet Microchipped?

To get your pet microchipped all you’ll need to do is make an appointment with your vet or another qualified person, some rescue centres have trained staff who can also microchip pets. The most important thing to make sure of is that whoever is microchipping your pet is trained to do so.

Golden Retriever having their microchip checked

The Benefits of Microchipping your Pet

A microchip can’t be lost - Whilst an ID tag on a collar is useful, these can be lost or break off quite easily. Some indoor pets may not even wear a collar, in which case a microchip is an ideal way of ensuring your pet is traceable.
A microchip offers definitive proof - If your cat or dog is stolen, the microchip offers definitive proof of ownership. A collar can easily be swapped, but a microchip can’t be removed.
Microchips have been proven to increase the likelihood of your lost pet being returned - Whilst findings vary slightly from study to study, the overall findings are the same. Microchipped pets are much more likely to be returned to their owners than none-microchipped pets. Some studies find that the chances are increased by as much 50%.
Some microchips now come with added capabilities - Some chips come with the ability to program them to a pet door flap so only your pets can come and go. This is really handy to stop other animals from accessing your house.

How Much Does It Cost To Microchip Your Pets?

It usually cost between £10-£15 to microchip your pet, however this varies depending on where you get it done. Some charities, such as Blue Cross, actually offer microchipping for free so it’s definitely worth seeing if there’s a rescue centre local to you that has a microchipping scheme.

How Do I Register My Pet’s Microchip?

When your pet gets microchipped they will give the microchipping database company your details. They will ask for your name, address, phone number, pet’s details and emergency contacts.

If your puppy or kitten gets microchipped by the breeder they should give you a form or contact details for the microchipping company so you can update their chip with your details.

Dog at the vets

How Do I Update My Pet’s Microchip Details?

If you’re moving house or change phone numbers you will need to update your pet’s microchip details. How to do this will depend on which microchip database company your pet’s microchip is registered to (you can check this on www.checkachip.com), but usually you will have an online account that you can log in to and update any details.

What Should I Do If I Rehome Or Sell My Pet

Before you sell or rehome your dog we recommend updating the microchip database details to the new owners.

What Should I Do If My Pet Is Lost Or Stolen

If your pet is lost or stolen, we recommend calling your pet’s microchip database company straight away to report them missing. They will be able to check your details are up to date and flag on the system that the pet associated with that microchip is missing. This way if their microchip is scanned by a vet or a dog warden it will alert to them they’re missing or stolen, and they will then be able to get in contact with you and reunite you with your pet.

Black and white cat having their microchip checked

How Long Do Microchips Last For ?

Microchips are designed to last your pet’s lifetime. It’s very rare for them to become faulty or not scan, if this does happen the microchip company will usually replace it for free.

So what are you waiting for?! If you haven’t already got your pet microchipped, then we’d strongly suggest doing so, you never know when you’ll need it!

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03.10.24 October 03, 2024 Getting A Kitten

How Much Should My Kitten Weigh?

As a new kitten owner, it's natural to wonder if your furry friend is growing at a healthy rate. Monitoring your kitten's weight is crucial for ensuring proper development and identifying any potential health issues early on. This comprehensive guide will help you understand how much your kitten should weigh at various stages of their young life. The Importance of Monitoring Kitten Weight Keeping track of your kitten's weight provides insight into their overall health and well-being. Sudden weight loss or failure to gain weight can indicate underlying health problems, such as parasites or nutritional deficiencies. Conversely, excessive weight gain may lead to obesity, which can cause long-term health issues. Newborn Kittens: The Starting Point How much does a newborn kitten weigh? On average, a newborn kitten weighs between 90 to 110 grams (approximately 3 to 4 ounces). Newborn kittens are entirely dependent on their mother for nutrition and warmth. During the first week, they typically gain about 10 to 15 grams per day. Kitten Weight by Age: A Month-by-Month Guide Understanding the typical weight range for kittens at different ages can help you assess whether your kitten is on track. 2 Weeks Old By two weeks, kittens usually weigh between 170 to 230 grams (6 to 8 ounces). Their eyes begin to open, and they become more active. 4 Weeks Old At one month, kittens weigh around 350 to 450 grams (12 to 16 ounces). They start exploring their environment and may begin the weaning process. 8 Weeks Old (2 Months) How much should an 8-week-old kitten weigh? At this stage, kittens typically weigh between 800 grams to 1 kilogram (1.8 to 2.2 pounds). 9 Weeks Old A 9-week-old kitten should weigh slightly more than they did at 8 weeks, usually gaining about 100 grams per week. 10 Weeks Old How much should a 10-week-old kitten weigh? Expect your kitten to weigh between 1 to 1.2 kilograms (2.2 to 2.6 pounds). 12 Weeks Old (3 Months) How much should a 12-week-old kitten weigh? At three months, kittens generally weigh between 1.2 to 1.5 kilograms (2.6 to 3.3 pounds). 4 Months Old How much should a 4-month-old kitten weigh? A kitten at this age typically weighs between 1.8 to 2.3 kilograms (4 to 5 pounds). This is a significant growth period, and proper nutrition is essential. 5 Months Old How much should a 5-month-old kitten weigh? Expect a weight of 2.3 to 2.7 kilograms (5 to 6 pounds). 6 Months Old How much should a 6-month-old kitten weigh? By now, your kitten should weigh between 2.7 to 3.2 kilograms (6 to 7 pounds). They are approaching adolescence and may begin to exhibit adult behaviours. Factors Affecting Kitten Weight 1. Breed Different breeds have varying growth rates and mature sizes. For example, a Maine Coon kitten will weigh more at six months than a Siamese kitten due to the breed's larger size. 2. Nutrition Proper diet is crucial. Kittens require a diet rich in protein and essential nutrients to support rapid growth. Feeding high-quality kitten food ensures they receive the necessary nutrients. Shop our range of nutrient-rich kitten and cat food here. 3. Health Status Parasites, infections, and other health issues can impede weight gain. Regular vet check-ups are vital to catch and treat any problems early. How to Weigh Your Kitten Accurate weight monitoring involves regular weigh-ins: Use a Digital Scale: For precision, use a kitchen or postal scale that measures in grams and ounces. Weigh at the Same Time: Weigh your kitten at the same time each day or week to maintain consistency. Record the Weight: Keep a log to track growth over time. If it’s easier you can weigh yourself with and without your kitten and deduct your weight to get theirs. Kitten Weight Chart Creating a kitten weight chart can help visualise your kitten's growth. Here's a simplified example: Age (Weeks) Expected Weight (Grams) 1 110-170 2 170-230 4 350-450 8 800-1000 12 1200 - 1500 16 1800 - 2300 20 2300 - 2700 24 2700 - 3200 When to Be Concerned About Your Kitten's Weight If your kitten's weight is significantly below or above the average kitten weight by age, consult your vet. Signs of concern include: Underweight: Lethargy, visible ribs or spine, poor coat condition. Overweight: Difficulty moving, excessive sleeping, difficulty breathing. Conclusion Understanding how much your kitten should weigh at various stages is essential for their health and happiness. Regular monitoring, proper nutrition, and veterinary care will ensure your kitten grows into a healthy adult cat. Remember, each kitten is unique, so use this guide as a reference while considering individual differences. At Lords & Labradors, we offer a range of products to support your kitten's growth all the way into adulthood, from high-quality food to comfortable bedding and super cat trees. Shop everything your kitten needs here.

By Megan Willis
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02.10.24 October 02, 2024 Getting A Kitten

Different Growth Stages of Cats

Understanding the growth stages of cats is essential for providing them with the appropriate care, nutrition, and environment they need to thrive. From tiny kittens to fully grown adults, cats undergo significant changes both physically and behaviourally. This comprehensive guide explores the feline growth stages, answering common questions like "when do cats stop growing?" and "what age can cats become pregnant?" to help you navigate your cat's developmental journey. Here at Lords & Labradors we’ve carefully curated our range of cat products to support your cat through every stage of their development. Shop our cat essentials here. Stages of a Kitten's Development Kittens grow rapidly, and their development can be categorised into several distinct stages: 1. Neonatal Stage (0-2 Weeks) In the neonatal stage, kittens are entirely dependent on their mother. They are born blind and deaf, relying on their sense of touch and smell to find warmth and food. During this period, they sleep almost constantly and are unable to regulate their body temperature. 2. Transitional Stage (2-4 Weeks) Between two to four weeks, kittens begin to open their eyes and ears, starting to respond to sounds and sights. They start to develop their sense of balance and may attempt their first steps. This is a critical phase in the kitten development stages as they begin to explore their immediate surroundings. 3. Socialisation Stage (4-12 Weeks) This stage is vital for social development. Kittens learn to interact with their mother, siblings, and humans. They start to play, which is essential for developing motor skills and social behaviours. During this period, they are weaned off their mother's milk and introduced to solid food. 4. Juvenile Stage (3-6 Months) At this stage, kittens are more independent and energetic. They experience rapid growth and refinement of their physical abilities. Training and socialisation are crucial during this time to ensure they develop into well-adjusted adults. 5. Adolescent Stage (6-12 Months) Kittens begin to reach sexual maturity during the adolescent stage. Behavioural changes may occur, such as increased territoriality or marking behaviours. It's an ideal time to consider spaying or neutering to prevent unwanted pregnancies and reduce certain behaviours. Six-Month-Old Kitten: What to Expect A six-month-old kitten is comparable to a human teenager. They are adventurous, curious, and may test boundaries. Physically, a six-month-old kitten size is about 75% of their full-grown size. This is also when many kittens become sexually mature, leading to the question, "at what age can a kitten get pregnant?" What Age Can Cats Become Pregnant? Understanding "what age can cats become pregnant?" is crucial for preventing unwanted litters. Female cats can become pregnant as early as 5 to 6 months old. Similarly, male cats can impregnate females at this age. Therefore, early spaying or neutering is recommended. When Do Kittens Stop Growing? Many cat owners wonder, "when do kittens stop growing?" The growth rate slows significantly after the first year. However, most domestic cats continue to grow until they are about 18 months old. Larger breeds, like the Maine Coon, may not reach full size until they are 3 to 4 years old. When Is a Cat Fully Grown? Determining when a cat is fully grown depends on various factors, including breed, nutrition, and overall health. Generally, cats reach full physical maturity between 18 months to 2 years of age. However, mental and emotional maturity may take a bit longer, with some cats retaining kitten-like behaviours well into adulthood. How Long Is a Cat a Kitten? Cats are generally considered kittens until they reach one year old. However, the transition from kitten to adult can vary. Kitten Growth Stages: A Summary To recap the kitten growth stages: 0-2 Weeks: Neonatal stage; entirely dependent on the mother. 2-4 Weeks: Transitional stage; sensory development begins. 4-12 Weeks: Socialisation stage; learning behaviours and social skills. 3-6 Months: Juvenile stage; rapid growth and increased independence. 6-12 Months: Adolescent stage; sexual maturity and behavioural changes. 12 Months+: Adult stage; generally a kitten is considered a cat once they reach 1 year old. How Quickly Do Kittens Grow? Kittens grow rapidly, especially in the first six months. They can double or triple their weight in just a few weeks. This rapid growth requires a nutrient-rich diet formulated for kittens to support their development. We stock plenty of high-quality and nutrient-rich kitten food which are perfect for supporting your kitten's growth. Feline Growth Stages and Nutrition Proper nutrition is vital throughout the feline growth stages. Kittens need food high in protein, fat, and essential nutrients to support their rapid growth. As they approach adulthood, their dietary needs change, and transitioning to adult cat food is necessary. Cat Growth and Health Monitoring Regular veterinary visits are essential to monitor cat growth and development. Your vet can track weight, height, and overall health, ensuring your cat is on the right path. Conclusion Understanding the growth stages of cats is crucial for providing the best care throughout their lives. From the rapid development in kitten-hood to reaching full maturity, being informed helps you anticipate their needs and promote a healthy, happy life. Remember, while general timelines exist, each cat is unique. Factors like breed, genetics, nutrition, and health play significant roles in their development. If you have concerns or questions about your cat's growth, consult your veterinarian for personalised advice. By staying attentive to your cat's growth and development, you ensure they not only grow in size but also flourish in health and happiness, enriching both their life and yours. Shop everything you need to help nurture your kitten through all their growth stages here at Lords & Labradors. From high quality food, to luxury cat trees and interactive toys we have everything you could need.

By Megan Willis
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21.08.24 August 21, 2024 Getting A Puppy

Turning a crate into a cosy den for your dog

Did you know, crate training is one of the most effective ways to provide your puppy with a safe and secure environment? Transforming a simple crate into a cosy den can take your dog's comfort to the next level. Not only does a well-prepared crate help with training, but it also offers your dog a personal retreat where they can relax, feel secure, and unwind. In this guide, we’ll explore the essentials of turning a crate into a cosy den for your dog, with a focus on the best items to put in a puppy crate and how to create a welcoming space that your dog will love. The Importance of a Cosy Puppy Den A cosy den mimics the natural instincts of wild canines who seek out small, enclosed spaces to rest. For your dog, their crate should be a place where they feel safe and content, not a punishment or place of confinement. A well-designed puppy den offers numerous benefits: Security: Dogs feel safer in an enclosed space, which can reduce anxiety, especially during times of stress, such as fireworks or when you're away from home. Training: Crate training aids in toilet training, helps prevent destructive behaviour, and establishes a routine. Rest: A quiet, comfortable crate allows your dog to get the rest they need without being disturbed. Choosing the Right Crate Before diving into what to put in your puppy crate, it's crucial to select the right crate for your lifestyle and breed of dog. The crate should be large enough for your dog to stand, turn around, and lie down comfortably, but not so large that they can eliminate in one corner and sleep in another. For puppies, consider dividing your crate up by using a smaller bed such as our Cosy & Calming Puppy crate bed. Crates come in various materials, including metal, plastic, and fabric. Metal crates offer better ventilation and visibility, fabric crates are lightweight and portable but may not be suitable for dogs who chew, or for long periods of use. What to Put in Your Puppy Crate Comfortable Bedding The foundation of a cosy den is comfortable bedding. Choose a soft, durable crate cushion or bed that fits snugly in the crate. Look for materials that are easy to clean and provide excellent support. Here at Lords & Labradors, we offer a large range of crate bedding suitable for all breeds. When choosing bedding, consider your dog’s specific needs. Puppies may prefer something plush and warm, while some dogs might benefit from a crate mat and a blanket. Ensure that the bedding suits your needs, such as machine washable or chew resistant or simply just match your home decor. Crate Covers & Bumpers Adding a crate cover and a bumper can enhance the den-like feel of the crate. Covering the crate can create a dark, cave-like environment that many dogs find comforting. However, it’s important to monitor your dog’s reaction; some dogs may feel confined with a cover and prefer a more open view. Here at Lords & Labradors, our covers come with roll-up panels, allowing you to adjust the level of darkness and airflow to suit your and your dog’s needs. Our bumpers provide a cosy wall like environment, making the crate even cosier to snuggle into. Toys and Chews Toys and chews are essential for keeping your dog entertained and mentally stimulated while in their crate. Choose durable, safe toys that your dog can’t destroy or swallow. Chew toys can be soothing for teething puppies and help them settle in their crate, whilst interactive toys, such as puzzle feeders or treat-dispensing balls, can also be a great addition to your puppy’s den. They provide mental stimulation and help alleviate boredom, making the crate a more inviting place for your dog. Water Bowl or Dispenser Hydration is key, especially if your dog will be spending extended periods in their crate. A spill-proof water bowl or a water bowl that attaches to the crate can ensure your dog always has access to fresh water without making a mess. Scented Items Dogs have a strong sense of smell, and familiar scents can be incredibly comforting. Consider placing an item that carries your scent, such as an old t-shirt or a blanket you’ve used, in the crate. This can help reduce separation anxiety and make your puppy feel closer to you when you’re not around. However, ensure that any scented item is safe for your dog. Avoid anything with loose threads or small parts that could be swallowed. Creating a Positive Crate Experience Once you’ve set up your puppy’s den, it’s important to create positive associations with the crate. Here are some tips to help your dog love their new space: Introduce the Crate Gradually Allow your dog to explore the crate on their own terms. Leave the door open and place treats or toys inside to encourage them to enter. Reward your dog with praise and treats when they go into the crate voluntarily. Make It a Happy Place Never use the crate as a punishment. The crate should be a positive, safe space where your dog feels secure. Feed your dog in the crate, offer special toys they only get when in the crate, and always make sure they have plenty of comfort items inside. Use the Crate for Short Periods at First Start with short crate sessions and gradually increase the time your dog spends inside. This helps your dog get used to the crate without feeling confined. Always ensure your dog has had a chance to relieve themselves and has exercised before being crated. Maintain a Routine Dogs thrive on routine. Set a schedule for crate time, feeding, and bathroom breaks. Consistency will help your dog understand when it’s time to relax in their crate and when it’s time to play or go outside. Turning a crate into a cosy den for your dog is an investment in their comfort and well-being. By selecting the right crate, adding the appropriate items, and creating a positive experience, you can ensure that your dog sees their crate as a safe haven. Whether you’re crate training a puppy or providing a sanctuary for an older dog, the tips above will help you create a space that meets your dog’s needs and makes them feel right at home. For more luxury pet essentials to complete your puppy’s den, visit Lords & Labradors, where we offer a curated selection of high-quality products to pamper your pet.

By Laura Rudd
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15.08.24 August 15, 2024 Getting A Puppy

The Cost of Owning a Dog

Owning a dog is a joyful and rewarding experience, but it’s essential to understand the financial commitment involved before bringing a furry friend into your home. The cost of owning a dog in the UK can vary significantly depending on several factors, including the breed, size, and health of the dog, as well as your lifestyle and location. Below, we explore the various costs associated with dog ownership, including initial expenses, ongoing monthly costs, and unexpected expenses, to help you answer the crucial question: How much does a dog cost per month? Initial Costs of Owning a Dog Before you even bring a dog home, there are several one-time costs to consider. These initial expenses can add up quickly, but they are necessary to ensure that your new pet is well-equipped and ready for a happy life with you. Purchase Price or Adoption Fee The first cost you’ll encounter is the price of the dog itself. If you choose to buy from a breeder, the cost can range widely depending on the breed. For example, a pedigree dog from a reputable breeder can cost anywhere from £500 to over £3,000. On the other hand, adopting a dog from a rescue centre is generally more affordable, with fees typically ranging from £150 to £300. Adoption also has the added benefit of giving a dog in need a loving home. Vaccinations and Microchipping Once you have your dog, you’ll need to ensure they are up-to-date on their vaccinations. Initial vaccinations usually cost between £50 and £100. Microchipping, which is a legal requirement in the UK, typically costs around £15 to £30. Neutering/Spaying If your dog isn’t already neutered or spayed, you should budget for this procedure. The cost can vary depending on the size and gender of the dog, but generally, it ranges from £100 to £300. Essential Equipment To ensure your dog is comfortable in their new home, you’ll need to purchase some essential items. Here at Lords & Labradors, we recommend: A Dog bed: £20 to £100 Collar and lead: £10 to £50 Food and water bowls: £5 to £30 Toys: £10 to £50 Crate or carrier: £30 to £150 Insurance It’s advisable to take out pet insurance to cover any unexpected veterinary bills. The cost of pet insurance can vary significantly depending on the level of cover and the breed of your dog, but you should expect to pay between £20 and £50 per month. This is one of the first recurring costs you’ll encounter, but it’s essential to consider as it can save you a significant amount of money in the long run. Total Initial Costs When you add up the purchase or adoption fees, vaccinations, microchipping, neutering, and essential equipment, the initial cost of owning a dog can range from £500 to £3,500 or more. This is an important factor to consider when asking, "How much is a dog?" The initial outlay is just the beginning, and understanding the ongoing costs is crucial for long-term planning. Ongoing Monthly Costs Now that you’ve welcomed your new companion into your home, it’s time to consider the ongoing costs of dog ownership. These monthly expenses will be a significant part of your budget for the duration of your dog’s life. Food The cost of dog food varies depending on the size of your dog and the quality of the food you choose. On average, you can expect to spend between £20 and £60 per month on dog food. Premium or specialised diets may cost more, but providing high-quality nutrition is essential for your dog’s health and longevity. Regular Veterinary Care Even after the initial vaccinations, your dog will require regular veterinary check-ups, which may include annual vaccinations, flea and worm treatments, and dental care. Routine veterinary costs can range from £10 to £30 per month. It’s also wise to set aside some money each month for unexpected veterinary expenses not covered by insurance. Grooming Grooming costs depend on the breed of your dog and whether you choose to groom them yourself or hire a professional. Some breeds require regular grooming to keep their coats healthy and tangle-free. Professional grooming services can range from £20 to £70 per session, with most dogs needing grooming every 4 to 8 weeks. If you choose to groom your dog at home, you’ll still need to invest in grooming tools, which can add up over time. Pet Insurance As mentioned earlier, pet insurance is a monthly expense that can range from £20 to £50. This cost will depend on the level of cover you choose, the age, and the breed of your dog. While it might seem like an optional expense, pet insurance is highly recommended as it can prevent financial strain if your dog becomes ill or injured. Dog Walking and Daycare If you work long hours or are frequently away from home, you may need to consider dog walking or daycare services. Dog walking typically costs around £10 to £15 per walk, while doggy daycare can range from £30 to £50 per day. These services ensure that your dog gets the exercise and socialisation they need, even when you’re not around. Total Monthly Costs So, how much does a dog cost per month? On average, you can expect to spend between £70 and £150 per month on your dog’s care. This estimate includes food, regular veterinary care, pet insurance, and grooming, but can vary depending on your dog’s specific needs and your lifestyle. Additional costs, such as dog walking or daycare, can significantly increase your monthly budget. Unexpected Costs While it’s important to budget for the expected monthly costs of owning a dog, it’s equally crucial to prepare for the unexpected. Dogs can develop health issues, require emergency veterinary care, or need surgery, all of which can result in significant costs. Veterinary Emergencies Even with pet insurance, there are often excess fees and limits on coverage that mean you could still face substantial out-of-pocket expenses in the event of a veterinary emergency. Surgery, diagnostic tests, or treatment for chronic conditions can quickly add up, sometimes costing thousands of pounds. Behavioural Training If your dog develops behavioural issues, you may need to invest in professional training. The cost of dog training varies, but private sessions can range from £30 to £100 per hour. Group classes are usually more affordable but may still add a notable expense to your budget. Replacement of Damaged Items Puppies are often known for their tendency to chew on furniture, shoes, and other household items. While this behaviour can be managed with training, there’s always the possibility that you’ll need to replace damaged items, adding to the overall cost of ownership. Owning a dog is a long-term commitment, both emotionally and financially. Understanding the costs involved is crucial to ensuring that you can provide a stable and loving home for your pet throughout their life. From the initial purchase price or adoption fee to the ongoing monthly expenses, the question “How much is a dog?” encompasses more than just the upfront cost. It’s about being prepared for the responsibility and ensuring that your dog’s needs are met, now and in the future. By carefully considering these factors, you’ll be better equipped to make an informed decision about bringing a dog into your life, ensuring that both you and your new companion enjoy a happy and healthy relationship for years to come.

By Laura Rudd
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