• Getting a Puppy
• Tail Docking
• Common Health Issues
• First Aid
• Neutering
• Microchipping
• Separation Anxiety
• Dogs & Moving Home
• Responsible Ownership
• Pet Passports

Responsible Ownership

Getting a dog is a big responsibility and many people do not realise that owning a dog is a huge commitment. This is one of the many reasons dogs are rehomed as people cannot commit fully to owning a dog. Being a responsible owner doesn't just mean providing food and water and taking the dog to the vet when they are sick or injured, it also involves pet insurance, microchipping, neutering and continued vacinations.

Giving a home to a rescue dog is one of the most rewarding experiences a person can have. However, it is important to know that you are ready to take on the commitment of another life - a life that will be totally dependant on you.

Providing a daily routine

Dogs require regular daily exercise this not only provides an outlet for all that boxer energy but also keeps their minds active which can help stop unwanted destructive behaviour due to boredom. Regular walks also provide your dog with a chance to meet other dogs.

Both tinned and dried pet food provide a balanced, nutritious diet but remember to provide extra water with dried food. Water must always be clean and fresh. Human food is not recommended. Human chocolate is poisonous to dogs and can be fatal in large quantities.

Your dogs's bed should be in a quiet, draught-free place out of direct sunlight.

Socialisation

Proper socialisation with other dogs and animals is important for both you and your dog it creates a happy and relaxed environment. Unfortunately, alot of the boxers we have in our care come to us with no socialisation skills and due to this find it more difficult to find new forever homes.

Dog training classes are a great way to learn to socialise and also help the owner with handlling and training techniques. BWS founder Lorraine is a Member of the Institute of Animal Care and Education (M.I.A.C.E) and is both experienced and qualified in animal behaviour, psychology and training, if you have any problems with your boxer please get in touch.

Pet insurance

Being a responsible owner means providing the proper vet care for your dog from annual vaccinations to flea and worming treatments. Vet care can be expensive so pet insurance is a very important aspect of owning a dog, we advise that all pet owners insure their pets. Pet insurance guards against unexpected vet treatments and will allow you to provide your dog with the best healthcare possible.

Neutering

Neutering not only prevents unwanted litters but also prevents tumours and other health problems. You can read about Levi's tragic story, he came to us with testicular cancer along with various other health issues. Neutering can also help with aggression and unwanted behaviour in male dogs. All BWS dogs must be neutered within 4 months of being rehomed.

Microchipping

Microchipping is an effective method of identification for your dog. If your dog is every lost a vet can easily scan the dogs microchip and find all of the owners contact details. This means that you can be quickly reunited with your precious pet. We have trained microchipping volunteers and hold events throughout the year, for the small cost of £15 you can provide identification for your dog. Keep a look out for our upcoming Pets at Home microchipping events. We microchipping all BWS dogs before they are rehomed.

Children

Many boxers live happily with children if they have lived with them from an early age. It is important that children are taught to respect animals and are not allowed to treat them as toys. Pets need their own space, so children should not disturb your pet when he is sleeping or eating. Never leave a dog alone with children. Always supervise interactions to ensure children do not tease or overexcite your pet.

Pet Passports

You can get your pet a 'passport' under the Pet Travel Scheme (PETS), without having to go through quarantine. You will need to complete several important steps, such as getting vaccinations, microchipping and getting an official PETS certificate from your vet, so make sure you do everything well in advance.