I OWN an eight-year-old Labrador-cross. I’ve noticed a change in how he walks on his back legs after he’s been running. It doesn’t happen all the time but fairly regularly. Could he have arthritis? Phil

There can be many reasons why you are seeing this change. In an older dog arthritis is a possibility, but it could also be a sprain or strain in one of your dog’s joints. If you are noticing changes in your dog’s mobility during or after exercise, or even after resting, it’s best to contact your vet. They’ll be able to assess your dog to understand what could be causing this and provide treatment to help. Many dogs will lead comfortable, happy and mobile lives when arthritis is managed. Your vet can also provide tips on how to help your dog as the condition advances.

Our kids, aged six and eight, really want a pet but we’re not sure what kind. What do you advise? Jade

Pets bring companionship and enjoyment to millions of families, but they are also a big responsibility. Which pet is best for you will depend on your lifestyle and circumstances. Think about “PETS” or Place, Exercise, Time and Spend. Place: is where you live suitable for a pet? Exercise: how much exercise could you provide for your pet? Time: how much time could you devote to a pet and will this change as lockdown ends? Spend: could you afford all the costs that go with pet ownership? It’s really important to do lots of research before taking on a new pet. PDSA’s online PetWise quiz will help you consider some of the factors. Visit www.pdsa.org.uk/petwisequiz.

Our dog Rosie hurt her back leg recently and needed stitches. She’s wearing a ‘lampshade’ to stop her licking the wound, but it keeps knocking everything in the house. Are there any alternatives? Lyn

Some dogs cannot resist the urge to lick a wound which may lead to infection and problems with the wound healing. Lampshade collars are best at preventing licking, allowing the wound to heal undisturbed, so it’s worthwhile tolerating it. It’s best to approach Rosie from the front where she can see you, so as not to startle her and moving anything breakable out of reach until the collar can be removed. Other options such as inflatable collars are available but it’s best to speak with your vet about whether these are appropriate for Rosie and the location of her wound, as it’s important that she cannot reach it.

My dog keeps rolling in other dog’s poo at the park. It smells awful and I have to wash her constantly. How can I stop her? Jessica

It’s thought that rolling in poo, or other stinky things, is something dogs have inherited from their ancestors to mask their smell while hunting. Even though dogs aren’t hunters any more, some still like to do this, especially after a bath when they might feel they smell less ‘doggy’. Making sure your dog is well trained and comes back to you every time you call her will help. Call your dog back if she spends too long sniffing in one place and reward her when she comes back with a healthy treat or toy.