The GSPCA, Bremeny School for Dogs and Briarhill Vet Clinic have come together to try to tackle how we approach behavioural problems with dogs. Together, they strongly believe in early prevention of behavioural problems rather than dealing with them as they arise. A stitch in time saves nine, and also makes for a happier pup.
Their mission is clear - to champion a proactive approach to pet care.
The three organisations collectively believe that it is important that we do not label pets as bad or nasty when they behave aggressively or bite or growl. Often these pets are victims of poor interactions with humans or even cruelty and have learned not to trust humans. We must take their poor or aggressive behaviour as information and see how we can help them.
Early training
Paula Feaheny, founder of Bremeny School for Dogs and expert in dog training and behaviour, teaches that educating dogs early in your relationship with them is the key to addressing behavioural issues: "Early training is key to fostering well-mannered dogs and preventing behavioural issues. Investing in training from the outset establishes a strong bond between dogs and their owners, enhancing the quality of their relationship. You can always teach an old dog, new tricks!"
Bremeny School for Dogs offers personalised one-on-one training programmes, as well as group learning, seminars, workshops, and masterclasses on a variety of topics. Their doggy day care offers a delightful retreat for dogs who thrive in the company of their fellow canines.
To get in contact with the Bremeny School for Dogs you can email [email protected].
Appropriate medical care
Ruth Harkin and Riona Mac Eoin, co-founders of Briarhill Vet Clinic, underscore the vital role of regular veterinary check-ups and proactive care in ensuring the well-being of our pets. These routine check-ups serve to identify and address health concerns before they escalate, contributing to a longer, happier and healthier life for our animals. The vets at Briahill Vet Clinic all stress that underlying pain must always be considered as a possible underlying cause for “aggressive” behaviour, particularly if it is sudden in onset and out of character for the animal.
It is an unfortunate reality that pain in pets often remains silent, hidden from owners. This silent pain, like dental discomfort, may go unnoticed until intervention alleviates it, revealing a positive shift in the pet’s behavior and well-being. Dogs and cats, unlike humans, cannot explicitly point to a sore tooth, making dental x-rays crucial for a comprehensive understanding of potential issues.
Furthermore, the vets emphasize the importance of recognizing masked pain, especially in cases of osteoarthritis. Sometimes owners assume that reduced activity is a sign of age rather than a sign of underlying joint pain, for example 100% of cats over the age of 12 years have been documented to have osteoarthritis. There are many safe and effective medications available for the management of this pain and treament can dramatically improve quality of life for our older companions.
Briarhill Vet Clinic offer free dental checks on the first Tuesday of every month. Phone 091 380000 to book your appointment.
Taking collective action
GSPCA, Bremeny School for Dogs and Briarhill Veterinary Clinic believe that effecting change requires collective action, which is exactly why they have decided to join forces. They urge their community to join them in challenging outdated attitudes and embracing a new era of dog care - an era marked by collaboration, compassion, and proactive intervention.
They feel that with your help they can pave the way for a brighter future for dogs across Ireland. A brighter future where their health, happiness, and welfare are prioritised at every turn. It is their belief that if we revolutionise the way we care for our canine companions, we can create a better world for dogs and their owners alike.
The proper adopting procedure for your new dog
Where you get your dog from can play a massive role in their behaviour. It is vital that people do their research into what sort of dog they are looking for and understand that nurture and nature play a part in their dog's future behaviour. You can't ask a beagle not to follow its nose any more than you can ask a husky to not howl.
Getting in touch with an experienced trainer prior to adopting your new dog can set you on the right path to ensuring good habits are put in place early.
Reputable rescues will know their dog's individual personalities, understand their requirements and will help families find the dog that suits their lifestyle and circumstances.
Galway SPCA
Galway SPCA joined the Briarhill Business Park in 2022 with the opening of their office and charity shop in Unit 40A. This was followed by the cattery and small animal unit opening in 2023 to offer a safe place for the animals in their care as they recover and prepare to find forever homes.
The premises has grown in popularity with shoppers looking for bargains from the second hand goods and furniture available in their shops, not to mention the charming shop host, Ruben the cat.
The past year over 230 animals from cats to rabbits, guinea pigs, hamsters, birds and lizards found their forever families through the Briarhill premises alone and the larger premises allowed the GSPCA to expand their volunteer numbers and gave them the opportunity to welcome more young people though the TY and LCVP programmes in local schools.
The shop is open Tuesdays to Saturdays from 10am to 4pm. Adoption information can be found on their website www.gspca.ie or by contacting the office on 091 563631 or email [email protected].
