S.P.C.A

Manawatu Standard, Volume LII, Issue 204, 29 July 1932, Page 2

S.P.C.A

SOME HINTS ON FEEDING OF DOGS. It is very' probable that most pet dogs suffer from over-feeding rather than the reverse. Meals should be given by the owner only, for the pet which is stuffed indiscriminately by each aiid every member of the family with sweetmeats and other unsuitable food has little hope of obtaining, a ripe old age. Dogs, like human beings, are healthiest when fed wisely but not too well. Naturally the amount of exercise given will have an important bearing on the amount of food required, also will the size and breed of dog. It is the aim of every owner to keep his dog in good condition. That is, neither too fat nor too thin. This can be done by judicious regulation of the rations, withholding a little if the animal is putting on much flesh, and adding a little if there is loss of weight. This, however, is often complicated and negatived by kindly neighbours who feed the dog whenever it trots along to visit them, and these visits will probably increase in inverse proportion to the curtailment in the rations at home. It you can with tact put the case before these well-meaning but wrongdoing friends your problem will be simplified. The type of food given to a dog has a decided influence on its health and temper. For example, if a chained dog be fed on raw meat it will in all probability become vicious, whilst a working dog will work better on raw flesh, provided that it is not fresh killed; that is, that it has had time to become quite cold. On no account should raw offal and sheep’s heads bo fed to animals, as the prevalence of hydatids in New Zealand can be to some extent laid to the charge of this pernicious practice. Well-boiled livers are perfectly safe, appetising and very nourishing. One meal a day under normal conditions is sufficient for aii adult dog. For a watcli-dog this meal is best given early in the day, so that he will be alert during tho hours of darkness. For most other animals a meal at sundown ensures a peaceful night. Biscuits are good, not only as a food, but as a means of keeping the teeth clean and healthy. Soppy foods are to be avoided. An important health factor is a plentiful supply of fresh clean water. A piece of sulphur in the drinking trough, though discounted by many, has something to be said in its favour It is slightly soluble and has blood purifying properties. Food and drinking dishes should be kept scrupulously clean.