From a terrier that never stops licking to a lonely horse: questions about pets are answered

HE is on a mission to help our pets. . . and is here to answer YOUR questions.

Sean, head veterinarian at custom pet food company tails.com, has been helping owners with questions for a decade. He says, “If your pet is acting strange or sick, or you want to know more about diet or exercise, just ask. I can help keep pets happy and healthy.”

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Q) MY little Biewer terrier Jolie is a loving three year old, but she never stops licking her.

She is busy and loved, although you can't do anything with her or sit with her without her doing it all the time. It drives us all crazy.

I've tried to teach her to stop, but she just can't help it.

I would really appreciate your advice.

Maggie Machin, Rayleigh, Essex

A) You've got something on your hands.

I know this turns people off, but I have to admit I find it quite funny.

But if you take it seriously, there's an ick factor for a reason.

It's not the most hygienic practice to know what else dogs are putting in their mouths – and most don't brush their teeth every day.

But why do they lick? For the most part, it's friendly, conciliatory behavior.

As pups in the wild, the canine family largely licks around their parents' mouths when returning to the den to stimulate food regurgitation.

It's a way of saying, “I'm small and fragile, please take care of me.” This can extend into adulthood.

As we have bred domesticated dogs as pets for generations, many now continue to exhibit puppy-like behavior well into their older years.

How to stop it? Reward-based training.

Use a command like “leave it” when Jolie licks, and reward her when she stops.

Repeat this again and again, even with other people.

Q) CAN a horse mourn a companion?

I recently lost my old horse Bow, who was a friend of eight-year-old gelding Blaze.

Now Blaze seems to be really in trouble.

What can I do to cheer him up?

I'm thinking of getting another companion.

But does it have to be a horse?

We go for rides regularly, but I think he's grieving.

Liz Green, Launceston, Cornwall

A) Absolutely, all animals grieve close companions to some extent, just as we would if we lost a close friend.

The problem with animals, however, is that they seem to bounce back in time, generally a lot faster than we do.

That said, there are things you can do to help and a lot of it involves finding Blaze company again.

Another horse or pony is best.

Donkeys or perhaps goats are often recommended as companions for horses, but these are all completely different species and each needs its own type of social companionship.

Q) Apart from allowing me to give him a quick cuddle every now and then, my cat Tigger is quite aloof.

He may come over for a quick cuddle every now and then, but he's really bad-tempered.

I give Tigger his space, but can I get him to like me more, or at least pretend to?

Emily Clarke, Newcastle upon Tyne

A) Some cats are exactly like that.

It sounds like you really want a dog, or at least a cat with a dog attitude.

There's a difference between being distant and independent, or actually being bad-tempered.

I assume he doesn't bite or hiss at you?

If not, consider that a win.

Some cats just aren't that affectionate and will happily accept the occasional rub, or if you give them food, water and shelter to end the appointment.

In return, Tigger will grace your household with his presence.

If he's always been like this, you have to accept it.

If it is a recent change, have you noticed that he is in pain or discomfort?

Arthritis, for example, can affect our pets, so a vet check is worth it if you're concerned.

Star of the week

DELCEE the Parson Jack Russell is a lifesaver for owner Julie Dowling after she was diagnosed with a breathing disorder.

The 51-year-old from Crayford, Kent, who is also deaf, was recently diagnosed with COPD.

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Julie says: “Delcee takes me for walks, which is essential for my breathing as I need to stay as healthy as possible. That is a life saver for me.

“Being deaf, walking her has allowed me to meet other dog lovers, which has helped me make many new friends.

“Seven years ago she almost died from a rare blood disease. I am so lucky that she has transformed my life.”

Pet care in cold weather

OWNERS have been told to take extra care of their little friends during the cold snap we are facing.

An RSPCA spokesperson said: “If temperatures drop below freezing, you may want to move your rabbit indoors.

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“Guinea pigs should be indoors when it drops below 15 degrees Celsius. If you must leave them outside, provide extra bedding and ensure their home is protected from bad weather with insulating but ventilated covers.”

Cats should have access to the house or other indoor space – and make sure your dog has a coat.

The spokesperson added: “For birds in aviaries, coops or runs, provide plenty of dry and warm bedding, such as straw, and cover the enclosures to keep out wind and rain.

“If you have a fish pond, check it every day to make sure the surface is not completely frozen, as toxic gas can build up under the ice.

“Breaking the ice can harm the fish. Gently place a pan of hot water on the surface to melt a hole. Don't pour.

“For wildlife, omit seeds and grains, cooked pasta or rice and cooked potatoes and keep birdbaths free of ice.”

See rspca.org.uk/adviceandwelfare/seasonal.