Buying an "activ goldens" puppy
Brisbane QLD
AT ACTIV GOLDENS, we see ourselves as dedicated caretakers of this extraordinary breed, bearing a significant responsibility that we take very seriously. Our ambition is to breed the "perfect" dog. While achieving perfection may be elusive, it remains a goal we constantly strive towards. We are committed to continual improvement in all aspects of our breeding practices, from importing superior bloodlines to refining our rearing techniques and conducting rigorous evaluations of potential breeding dogs.
Our Breeding Journey
Our journey into breeding outstanding Field Golden Retrievers began with the introduction of some of the finest bloodlines from the UK and globally, using the renowned Echobrook Dexster OFTW as the foundational sire for our stud. As a result, most of our puppies carry his lineage. The UK Field Golden Retriever, particularly rare in Australia, captivated us with their intelligence and eagerness to please—traits that closely align with our ideal of the perfect dog.
Our Commitment to Quality
Our focus is on producing dogs that are sound both in mind and body. Structure and temperament are paramount in our selection criteria for breeding, alongside rigorous health screenings for hips, elbows, eyes, and heart by specialists certified by the ANKC.
Furthermore, all Activ Goldens undergo DNA testing to ensure they are free from any known inherited diseases specific to Golden Retrievers. We pledge to stay updated with and incorporate all future advancements in health testing for the breed.
Why ANKC Registration Matters
At Activ Goldens, we are proud to be ANKC-registered breeders—the only pedigree system in Australia that holds real weight. ANKC sets the national standard for ethical breeding, health testing, and pedigree integrity. Unfortunately, there are breeders operating under alternative registries, which are not recognised as legitimate substitutes. These groups allow breeders to bypass essential health checks and breed without accountability.
Even worse, some are now using the respected name of UK Golden Retrievers to mislead buyers—without meeting the standards or doing the work required to protect the breed. These breeders often skip vital health testing and ignore the strict protocols that protect long-term genetic health.
As a buyer, you should always ask for official hip and elbow scores, along with current heart and eye clearances. If a breeder can’t provide this documentation or isn’t ANKC registered, that’s a big Red flag.
Don’t be fooled by marketing spin or misleading claims. ANKC is the gold standard—and the only one that truly protects you and your puppy.
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Why Choose Activ Goldens?
Choosing an Activ Golden Retriever means confidence in acquiring a 100% UK Field Golden Retriever known for its high intelligence, vibrant energy, exceptional trainability, and suitability as an extraordinary family pet.
We proudly hold membership with Dogs Queensland - No. 4100204481
Our Queensland Dog Breeder Registration Number is BIN0002482090917.
** Kindly hold off on submitting your application until you're ready to pay the Deposit if your application is approved.
Important Information
Application Process
The final step in our application process is a phone call to confirm that we are a perfect match for each other.
Conflict and Uncooperative Conduct
At Activ Goldens, we enforce a strict policy to ensure a respectful and professional environment at all times. If any conflicts or confrontational behaviour occur during or after the application process, we will immediately return the deposit and reject the application, regardless of what stage the puppy process is in.
I run two businesses alone, and while I make every effort to respond promptly, my time is limited. The welfare, socialisation, and health of our puppies are my top priorities, and updates are secondary. To keep costs manageable for clients, I do not hire additional staff. This policy is final and is in place to protect the integrity of our process, ensuring the best outcomes for our puppies and clients.
Limited Register Puppies
Our puppies are sold on a Limited Register, which means they come without breeding or export rights. Before receiving your puppy, you will be required to sign a legally binding No Breeding contract, prohibiting any breeding with this dog. Non-compliance will result in liability, even if the dog is sold to another party. Please be aware that we do not offer our puppies for export outside of Australia, nor do we sell puppies on the Mains Register. Thank you for your understanding.
Securing Your Position
To secure your position on our waitlist, a deposit of $600 is required. Your spot on the waitlist is only confirmed once we receive your deposit, with positions allocated based on the timing of the deposit, not the order of application.
Please note that expressing interest in joining the waitlist without submitting a deposit will not reserve a spot for you. We do not follow up on unpaid deposits; if we do not receive your deposit, we will assume you have changed your mind.
Payment Details
The remaining balance of $6,000 is due when the puppy reaches 7 weeks of age. Full payment is required at the 7-week mark, regardless of when you are receiving your puppy. we choose to keep puppies going to WA until 10 weeks at no extra charge, however full payment is required at 7 weeks.
Finding the Right Home
As breeders, our primary goal is to ensure that each puppy is placed in a suitable "forever" home. To assist us in matching the right puppy with the right family, we ask that you provide detailed information about your lifestyle and what you are looking for in a dog. We select the puppy that best fits each family based on this information and further discussions during the phone call.
Application Outcomes
If your application is unsuccessful, please understand that it is not a reflection of your ability to provide a loving home. It simply means that the fit between our breeding philosophy, the puppy, and your family may not be ideal.
We are deeply committed to the welfare of our puppies. It is our responsibility to ensure that the relationship between us, the puppies, and their prospective families is conducive to their well-being. We take this responsibility seriously and may decline applications based on this criterion to ensure the best possible outcomes for all parties involved.
(Limited Register ONLY)
ActivGoldens - Bringing the Best UK Bloodlines to Australia
Frequently Asked Questions
A Tale of Global Diversity - the difference between "Show" and "Field" Golden Retrievers.
The Golden Retriever, first bred in the 1800s by Scottish nobleman Lord Tweedmouth, has not only captivated hearts worldwide but also adapted to various international roles and environments, leading to a broad spectrum of unofficial breed "strains".
This global popularity has spurred heated debates about the breed's essence and whether distinctions between the Field and Show Golden Retrievers should warrant separate classifications.
Understanding the Varieties: Field vs. Show Golden Retrievers
The UK Field Golden Retriever remains true to Lord Tweedmouth’s original vision, mirroring the breed’s foundational traits of intelligence, agility, and utility in fieldwork. These dogs have maintained a consistent look for over a century, closely resembling their ancestors in both form and function, and are celebrated for their suitability in traditional shooting roles, known for their calm and relaxed demeanor.
Conversely, American Field Golden Retrievers exhibit notably higher energy and drive, reflecting the more dynamic and varied shooting styles prevalent in North America. This distinction underscores not just regional preferences in breeding but also the practical requirements imposed by different hunting practices across continents.
Meanwhile, the Show Golden Retriever has evolved significantly, particularly through selective breeding focused on aesthetics to meet show ring standards. These dogs feature longer coats and larger builds, enchanting spectators with their majestic presence and flowing hair. The physical variations among Show Golden Retrievers in the UK, USA, and Australia highlight a global divergence in show standards.
Regional Preferences and Practical Considerations
In Australia, while Show Golden Retrievers are widely recognized, Field Golden Retrievers are less common but highly valued for their traditional capabilities. The practicality of the UK Field Golden's shorter coat is ideal for active work, facilitating easier movement through water and rough terrains without the hindrance of a longer coat. This attribute also leads to less shedding, which is beneficial for active owners.
Reflecting on the Breed’s Evolution
The attached photograph beautifully illustrates the transformation of Show Golden Retrievers from the 1920s to today, marking the significant aesthetic evolution driven by shifting breeding priorities. This visual evolution, alongside the functional distinctions between the UK and American Field Golden Retrievers, captures the breed's dynamic adaptability to diverse global needs.
Making the Choice That Suits You
Choosing between a Show or Field Golden Retriever, and further between a UK or American Field variety, often depends on personal preference, lifestyle, and activity level. Whether you’re drawn to the graceful beauty of a Show Golden or the robust energy of an American Field Golden, or perhaps the composed nature of a UK Field Golden, all types uphold the breed’s reputation for friendliness, loyalty, and adaptability. Prospective owners should consider these traits alongside their environment and grooming commitments when selecting their ideal Golden Retriever.
This captivating journey of the Golden Retriever, from its origins as a dedicated gun dog to its stature as a cherished show ring star and versatile family companion, truly showcases why this breed is among the most beloved around the globe. With a history marked by adaptability and excellence, the Golden Retriever seamlessly blends into diverse roles, earning admiration and affection wherever it goes. This remarkable versatility and enduring appeal underscore its status as, arguably, the best dog breed in the world. Whether in the field, the show ring, or your living room, the Golden Retriever stands as a testament to what a perfect canine companion looks like.
Are UK Field Golden Retrievers suitable for first-time dog owners?
UK Field Golden Retrievers are remarkably intelligent and require consistent discipline and training to truly thrive. This breed is active and doesn't enjoy sitting idle around the house. If you're seeking a pet that enjoys lounging, a toy breed or a cat might be a better fit. Field Goldens need structured training and a confident owner, making them less suited for first-time dog owners unless you are truly committed to educating yourself and dedicating the time necessary for their development. Their energetic and intelligent nature as pups makes them excellent companions for those ready to engage fully with their dynamic needs.
Just as people don't usually buy a Ferrari for their first car, the demanding needs of a Field Golden pup require a confident and experienced owner.
In our opinion, they are in a league of their own. Once you've experienced the joy and challenge of owning a Field Golden, it's hard to go back to any other breed. Their ability to learn quickly is unmatched; I can train my Field Goldens in a tenth of the time it takes for other breeds. However, this also means they can pick up bad habits just as fast. Without clear boundaries and consistent training, they will test your limits and outsmart you at every turn. If you're up for the challenge and ready to invest in their training, you'll find a loyal, intelligent, and endlessly rewarding companion in a UK Field Golden Retriever. But if you prefer a more laid-back pet, it might be best to consider a different breed.
You'd like your Puppy Become a Therapy Dog?
If you're interested in making a positive impact in your community, Delta Therapy Dogs offers a fantastic program where they train both you and your puppy to visit hospitals and nursing homes. This program brings immense joy to residents and patients, and is both enjoyable and rewarding.
Take, for instance, Drummer, one of our own dogs who has been participating in therapy visits for the past couple of years. He is exceptional at his role, especially known for his gentle interaction with dementia patients, eagerly nudging them to receive cuddles. He is equally adored by the staff, and we often find ourselves extending our visits to allow everyone enough time to enjoy his company. After each visit, the fulfillment is palpable—I always leave feeling uplifted.
Our newer sire, Dexter Junior, passed his exam and has started visiting a local nursing home. He's quickly becoming as popular as Drummer, capturing the hearts of many. It's telling that while everyone knows the dogs' names, few remember mine!
This role not only brings happiness to others but enriches your life and your puppy's, fostering a deep sense of connection and purpose. If this sounds like something you and your puppy would love, Delta Therapy Dogs is a wonderful place to start your journey.
You'd like your puppy compete in obedience competitions?
Absolutely! Obedience competitions provide a wonderful opportunity to showcase the results of your hard work and dedication in training your puppy. Participating in these events is not only a true test of your training skills but also a delightful way to see how well your dog can perform under pressure. Many dog owners often share stories about their dogs' abilities, but competing in obedience trials allows you to truly put those skills to the test in a structured environment.
Even if you're not initially inclined to compete, attending these competitions can be a great way to learn more about dog training and the various levels of obedience mastery. It’s an excellent chance to meet other dog enthusiasts, exchange tips and experiences, and see a range of breeds demonstrating their training. Competitions vary from basic obedience trials to more advanced routines that require seamless communication and profound trust between the dog and its handler.
If you're curious about what these competitions entail or how you might get involved, a simple online search for "dog obedience competitions near me" will yield information on local events. Attending a competition can provide you with a clearer picture of the commitment and joy involved in this sport. It’s also immensely entertaining—there's something truly inspiring about watching well-trained dogs and their handlers work in perfect harmony.
Whether you decide to train your puppy for competitive obedience or simply want to enhance your pet’s discipline and responsiveness, obedience training is a rewarding experience that strengthens the bond between you and your dog. It’s a commitment to excellence and mutual respect that pays off in countless ways beyond the competition ring.
Why our experience counts.
With over 30 years of experience in dog breeding, I have had the privilege of learning from some of the world’s most knowledgeable breeders. This mentorship has been invaluable, deepening my understanding of what traits to prioritise—going beyond standard health tests to place a significant emphasis on temperament, which is crucial once health screenings are completed.
One key aspect of my approach is the strategic outcrossing of bloodlines to enhance genetic vigour.
Breeding dogs is an intricate blend of science and art; it involves not just matching dogs based on their physical and genetic profiles but also crafting the next generations with an eye toward remarkable health and temperament.
Beyond breeding, the nurturing of puppies through carefully planned raising techniques—including thorough socialisation and desensitisation processes—is essential. My breeding programme and puppy-rearing practices are continually evaluated and refined for enhancement. While we are immensely proud of the puppies we produce, our commitment to improvement is ongoing. We are dedicated to not only maintaining high standards but also to finding new ways to elevate the quality of our puppies.
Backyard Breeders.
When considering bringing a new pet into your home, it's crucial to understand the difference between a responsible breeder and a backyard breeder. Unlike responsible breeders, who adhere to high standards of care and ethical breeding practices, backyard breeders often operate without regard for the health and well-being of their animals. This lack of care can lead to numerous issues for the animals involved, including inadequate nutrition, exposure to infectious diseases like kennel cough and parvovirus, parasite infestations, and a host of behavioral and genetic problems. These conditions not only compromise the health of the animals but also contribute to the growing number of unwanted pets that end up in animal shelters.
Backyard breeders often use platforms like Gumtree to sell their puppies quickly, bypassing essential health screenings to cut costs and speed up sales. This approach is particularly risky with breeds like Golden Retrievers, which are prone to specific health issues that can be costly to treat. Purchasing a puppy without proper health clearances from its parents might seem economical initially, but it can lead to significant financial and emotional strain due to future medical care.
To ensure you are making a responsible and informed decision, always choose a breeder who performs comprehensive health tests on their breeding dogs and can demonstrate a clear commitment to the health and welfare of their puppies. Investing in a well-bred puppy from a reputable source not only supports ethical breeding practices but also saves you from potential heartache and high veterinary costs down the line. Remember, a cheap puppy can ultimately become a costly one.
Spaying and Neutering Golden Retrievers
In recent years there have been new recommendations put out for large breed dogs, on when to spay and neuter.
The reason to wait until your Golden is at least 18 months old prior to spaying or neutering is to ensure they have a chance to fully go through their version of puberty. Golden Retrievers have their first heat cycle between 6 months and 18 months of age (9 to 15 months is the most common).
A recent study suggests neutering after 1 year of age can decrease the risks of bone and joint abnormalities as your Golden grows. Waiting until after 1 heat also allows their urinary tract to fully mature and decreases the change of infections.
In one large study of Golden retrievers by Dr. Torres de la Riva in 2013, the chance of a cranial cruciate ligament injury was significantly increased if a dog was spayed early (before 1 year old) vs. spayed late or left intact. This injury is the same knee injury as an ACL injury that human athletes often get.
Spayed dogs live longer. A very large study by University of Georgia and another study by Banfield Pet Hospitals both found that spayed female dogs lived longer than intact (un-spayed) female dogs. The UGA study said they lived 26.3% longer and the Banfield study found spayed dogs lived 23% longer. Although the specific reasons for living longer are not clear, there is evidence in these studies that spayed dogs live 1-2 years longer than dogs that are not spayed.
https://goldenretrieversociety.com/spaying-and-neutering/
I recommend to wait on Neutering male Golden Retrievers until 18 months old (one and a half years) and for females wait until 12 weeks after the first heat cycle. Studies have shown that spaying your dog prior to her second heat cycle can drastically decrease the risk of them developing mammary cancer later in life (from a 50% chance to 8% or less).
Sometimes the first heat can be “silent”, so even if you don’t notice the heat, it is still ok to spay at 18 months.
Age at gonadectomy and risk of overweight/obesity and orthopedic injury in a cohort of Golden Retrievers
https://journals.plos.org/plosone/article?id=10.1371/journal.pone.0209131
If your veterinarian recommends desexing your puppy at a young age, which is becoming increasingly common, it may be advisable to seek a second opinion. Early desexing can have significant health implications for Golden Retrievers. For example, desexing too early can disrupt the hormones responsible for regulating growth and joint development. This was evident in a case where a puppy desexed at 16 weeks grew to be about 20% taller than average by two years old, resulting in disproportionate body structure and potential future hip issues.
Similar concerns have been observed in other dogs, such as Groodles, who experience hip and health problems due to early desexing at 8 weeks. Therefore, careful consideration and professional guidance are crucial in deciding the appropriate age for desexing your pet to ensure their long-term health and well-being.
Interstate Transport
Jacqui Cant
** Flights must be through Jacqui directly, be a direct flight, include pick from Activ Goldens and at purchases expense.
The reason for only using Jacqui is other companies sometimes do milk runs when picking the pups up, they previously wanted to pick the pups up to 6 hours prior to flights. That is unacceptable, they must go directly from my property to the airport to have the minimum travel time possible. Jacqui understands my requirements.
Puppies going to WA must be kept to 10 weeks due to the length of the flight at no extra charge.
*** We do not sell puppies internationally under any circumstances.
Health Screening for the parents of a litter
Golden Retrievers are generally a very healthy breed; however, like all breeds, they are subject to some genetic disorders and health problems. The risks for many significant health issues can be greatly reduced through careful breeding practices, beginning with screening examinations of the parents of a litter. Each breed (and mixed-bred dogs too) has its own particular hereditary problems and Golden Retrievers are no exception. Failure to screen for these conditions before breeding results in taking unnecessary risks for genetic disease and frequently leads to distress for the buyer and dog alike. Below are the diseases for which are recommended pre-breeding health testing.
Reputable breeders are expected to conduct screening examinations for these diseases on the parents of a litter and show copy of the health certificates to prospective puppy buyers.
A brief outline of diseases that are health tested in the Golden are below: If you would like further information about these and other health matters of the breed please check out the following Fact Sheets
HIP DYSPLASIA (HD)
Current breed average over last 5 years is 10.58
Hip dysplasia refers to abnormal formation of the “ball-and-socket” hip joint and occurs in many breeds, particularly larger dogs. It is primarily inherited and believed to be influenced by multiple genes. However, risk and severity of hip dysplasia may also be increased by environmental factors such as unbalanced diet, overfeeding that leads to rapid growth during early puppyhood, neutering prior to maturity and possibly certain types of exercise. Hip dysplasia is a disease caused by multiple genes and as it is also influenced by environmental factors, its elimination is not straightforward. Currently, Australian Breeders use the ANKC’s Canine Hip and Elbow Dysplasia Scheme (CHEDs) to assess the degree of hip dysplasia a dog has.
Dog’s are x-rayed after 12 months of age and the hips are scored by a specialist. The score can range from 0-53 for each hip and the lower the score the better the hip. The average hip score for golden retrievers which is determined from x-rays submitted into the CHED scheme is 11 (ANKC 2020).
Signs of hip dysplasia cannot be detected in very young puppies, but often appear between four and twelve months of age. Symptoms can vary widely from mild stiffness after exercise to severe lameness. Improvement or even resolution of symptoms can occur as the dog matures and muscles stabilize the joint; however, dysplastic dogs usually develop some degree of arthritis and discomfort later in life.
Dysplastic dogs generally are not used for breeding, but may lead long, happy lives. The radiographic appearance of the hips does not always correlate with clinical symptoms and many dysplastic Goldens show no outward signs until middle or older age when secondary arthritis may cause increasing discomfort. However, regular, moderate exercise and weight control are important to managing all dogs with hip dysplasia, even those without symptoms. Depending on severity, dogs with symptomatic disease may be treated with dietary supplements, medication, and/or surgery.
ELBOW DYSPLASIA (ED)
“Elbow dysplasia” is a term used to describe one or more inherited developmental abnormalities in a dog’s elbow joint. Generally speaking, elbow dysplasia means the development of arthritis in the elbow joint. Elbow dysplasia often first appears as front leg lameness in young dogs, although symptoms can appear at any age. Like hip dysplasia, many affected dogs have no symptoms, yet can pass more serious disease to their offspring. For other affected dogs, symptoms range from mild stiffness to severe lameness.
Elbow dysplasia is primarily inherited and development is believed to be influenced by multiple genes. However, severity of elbow dysplasia may also be increased by rapid growth during early puppyhood as a result of over-feeding.
Golden Retrievers are susceptible to elbow dysplasia and breeders screen their dogs under the CHED’s scheme. The dogs elbows are x-rayed after they are over 12 months of age and the x-rays are assessed by an expert. The score given ranges form 0-3, with 0 being normal and 3 being badly affected.
Although dogs with elbow dysplasia generally are not bred, many lead normal, happy lives. Depending on severity, dogs with symptomatic disease may be managed by weight control, dietary supplements, medication and/or surgery.
EYE DISEASE
There are various conditions that Goldens are susceptible to some serious and sight affecting such as, Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA) and Hereditary Cataracts (HC) and other conditions that don’t affect the sight such as, Multifocal Retinal Dysplasia (MRD) and Post Polar Cataract (PPC). In Australia, Breeders screen there dogs annually for these conditions.
Hereditary cataracts, usually appear between 1-3 years of age, but fortunately do not usually cause any functional impairment. Non-hereditary cataracts also occur, and examination by a board-certified veterinary ophthalmologist is necessary to determine if the cataract is suspected to be hereditary.
Eyelid and eyelash disorders also may occur in the breed, and are generally believed to have a hereditary basis. Entropion and ectropion are conditions that cause the eyelids to roll inward or outward, respectively; and distichiasis is a condition in which misdirected hairs touch and irritate the surface of the eye. Depending on severity, surgery may be advised to correct these problems. Although dogs with these conditions can receive eye certifications, these diagnoses will be noted on the forms.
Annual examination by a board certified veterinary ophthalmologist is recommended for the lifetime of any dog that has been bred, because hereditary eye problems can develop at varying ages and certificates are valid for only 12 months from the date of examination.
There are several DNA tests available for PRA to help guide breeders, so that they can avoid producing affected puppies. It is acceptable to breed dogs that are carriers for PRA, providing the mate has been DNA tested as normal; and puppies produced from such matings are not at elevated risk to develop the disease.
HEART DISEASE (SAS)
Canine subvalvular aortic stenosis (SAS) is an abnormal, congenital heart murmur caused by subaortic stenosis (SAS) that has been detected in Goldens. There is very good evidence that it is heritable and thought to be multifactorial, so that the inheritance is complex. A dog might carry the genes for SAS, yet have no actual sign of SAS. Also, a dog might have signs of SAS and yet offspring with signs of SAS may not be seen for a couple of generations. Any animal that has SAS should not be bred, because they can definitely pass the defect on to future offspring. Puppies and dogs diagnosed with SAS can suffer from heart failure and sudden death. If a dog with SAS develops heart failure, medications can be prescribed to alleviate the clinical signs (sudden/strong lethargicism, continuous heavy panting, rise in temperature etc.) In Australia, breeders have their dogs examined by a veterinary cardiologists for heart murmurs. A dog which auscultates normally at 12 months of age is considered to be free of congenital heart disease; and a clear certificate is issued.
DNA Testing
Golden Retriever Full Breed DNA Profile includes:
DISEASES:
Congenital Eye Malformation (Golden Retriever)
Degenerative Myelopathy
Dystrophic Epidermolysis Bullosa (Golden Retriever Type)
Generalised PRA 1 (Golden Retriever Type)
Generalised PRA 2 (Golden Retriever Type)
Ichthyosis A (Golden Retriever)
Neuronal Ceroid Lipofuscinosis NCL (Golden Retriever Type)
Osteogenesis Imperfecta (Golden Retriever Type)
Progressive Rod Cone Degeneration (prcd) - PRA
Skeletal Dysplasia 2 (Mild Disproportionate Dwarfism)
von Willebrand's Disease Type I
TRAITS:
E Locus - (Cream/Red/Yellow)
EM (MC1R) Locus - Melanistic Mask
I Locus Colour Intensity
Brown (345DELPRO) Deletion
Brown (GLNT331STOP) Stop Codon
Brown (SER41CYS) Insertion Codon
Liver [TYRP1] (Lancashire Heeler Type)
D (Dilute) Locus
K Locus (Dominant Black)
A Locus (Fawn/Sable;Tri/Tan Points)
DNA PROFILE:
Canine DNA Profile (ISAG Canine 288 SNP Panel)
Vaccination Schedules for Puppies and Dogs
The following dog vaccination schedule is based on the recommendation of the Australian Veterinary Association (AVA).
Puppy Vaccination Schedule
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1st puppy vaccination: C3 at 6 to 8 weeks
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2nd puppy vaccination: C5 at 12 weeks
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3rd puppy vaccination: C3 booster at 16 weeks
(Some vaccines are registered for completion in puppies at 10 weeks, meaning a 3rd vaccination would not be required. But this should be up to your vet to guide you through the process.) -
1st annual dog vaccination at 16 months
Adult Dog Vaccination Schedule
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Annual Canine Cough vaccination
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C3 vaccination every 3 years
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Your vet may also recommend an annual C5 booster vaccination
Dog and Puppy Vaccinations Explained
The recommended puppy and dog vaccinations will help protect your dog against a number of very serious diseases. Below we outline some of the more common diseases and how vaccinations help prevent them.
Parvovirus -This is the one to be concerned about.
The parvovirus is one of the hardiest viruses. It can survive in the environment for 12 months or more and can only be killed with hospital grade disinfectant. The virus is highly contagious and is usually passed on through contact with contaminated faeces or soil.
Examples of such contaminated areas are parks, nature strips, show grounds and kennels.
Direct contact with another dog is not required to spread the disease.
Parvovirus Symptoms
The virus moves very quickly and symptoms often develop within a matter of hours after infection. Symptoms include:
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Excessive vomiting
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Diarrhoea containing blood
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High fever
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Severe abdominal pain
The parvovirus has a very high mortality rate and most dogs will succumb to the infection within a matter of days.
Parvovirus Prevention
Vaccinating your dog will help prevent the infection and spread of the disease. If you are in doubt, it is best to carry your dog (using a handbag, stroller etc.).
Parvovirus Treatment
Chances of survival are dependent on how quickly your dog receives medical treatment. Usually, treatment involves several days of intensive care at a vet hospital.
Kennel Cough
What is Kennel Cough?
Kennel Cough or infectious tracheobronchitis is a common infection mainly caused by two bacteria: namly, bordetella bronchiseptica and the parainfluenza virus, which target the animal’s respiratory system.
Kennel Cough is highly contagious and effects dog usually where they socialise, such as dog shows, dog training classes, parks and kennels. Kennel Cough got its name because most kennelled dogs are susceptible to the disease because they have been exposed enclosed areas together with other dogs like boarding kennels and pounds.
Kennel cough can be very easily spread, through airborne droplets produced by sneezing and coughing. It is not only spread by direct contact between the animals but also contact with contaminated surfaces including your hands and clothes.
Kennel Cough Symptoms
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The common sign of Kennel Cough is a harsh hacking cough that often finishes with gagging.
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Exercise, pressure on the throat (like pulling on the leash when wearing a collar) and excitement tend to make it worse.
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Severe cases can lead to fever, lethargy and a reduced appetite.
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Most dogs recover within 3 weeks, however depending on their health. If your dog is older, recovery can take up to 6 weeks.
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Kennel Cough can lead to pneumonia, which is a serious condition and be sure to consult your vet immediately if your dog doesn’t improve within the expected time frame. If your dog shows any symptoms of rapid breathing, not eating, or listlessness, these could be signs of a more serious condition so it is very important to contact your vet right away.
Kennel Cough Prevention
Sticking to the recommended dog vaccination schedule will help prevent the infection and spread of this disease.
Keep in mind, infectious tracheobronchitis can be caused by many bacteria and viruses and therefore vaccinating your dog will help prevent infection with the two major organisms. There is still a chance your dog may catch some other virus causing Kennel Cough.
Kennel Cough is not covered under Bow Wow Meow Pet Insurance.
Kennel Cough Treatment
Most cases of Kennel Cough will resolve without treatment, however antibiotics and cough medicines can help to reduce the symptoms. It is advisable to use a harness instead of a collar until your dog is better. You should also make sure your rooms are well humidified.
And one more: Heartworm
Heartworms are parasitic worms that are spread by mosquitos, and this disease can be devastating. When the worms enter the dog’s body, they find their way to the heart and lungs and grow and multiply until the organs become clogged and eventually fail.
Heartworm prevention medication can be administered as an injection between the ages of 12 and 16 weeks with an annual booster. Alternatively, the medication can be given as a tablet, which is very common, with most of them being given monthly or bi-monthly.
Worried about ‘over-vaccinating’? Titre testing may be an option for you.
Over the last decade there has been increasing debate about the over-vaccination of pets. Depending on the vaccine used and the individual animal, immunity can last significantly longer than 12 months. Some pet owners worry about vaccinating their pet whilst its immunisation is still sufficient.
If you are concerned about this, and would like to test if your dog’s immunisation is still sufficient, an antibody titre test may be an option to consider. In this process, a small amount of blood is taken from your pet and a laboratory test is used to determine the level of antibodies in your dog’s body.
Titre testing will test the antibodies for the 3 core diseases of dogs:
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Infectious Hepatitis (ICH)
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Parvovirus (CPV)
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Distemper (CDV)
Your vet will then be able to recommend if your dog will need to be re-vaccinated or not.
Toxic plants for dogs
A number of plants are poisonous to dogs. Consumption of these plants can cause a range of symptoms from vomiting to serious illness and even death in some cases.
Generally, dogs will stay away from plants that will harm them but sometimes curiosity and boredom get the better of them and they might nibble on your plants.
If you suspect that your dog has ingested a toxic plant, take it to a vet immediately. If you can, bring a piece of the suspected plant with you to the vet.
A list of the more common household plants that are toxic to dogs:
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autumn crocus
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azaleas
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black locust
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bleeding heart
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buttercups
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castor bean
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cherries (wild and cultivated)
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daffodil
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daphne
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Dieffenbachia (dumb cane)
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elderberry
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elephant ear
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foxgolve
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golden chain
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Hyacinth
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jack in the pulpit
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jasmine
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jimson weed (thorn apple)
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Lantana camara (red sage)
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larkspur
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laurels
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lily of the valley
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mayapple
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mistletoe
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monkshood
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moonseed
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Narcissus
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nightshade
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oak tree
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oleander
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poison hemlock
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Rhododendrons
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rhubarb
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rosary pea
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star of bethlehem