WHAT DOES IT MEAN?

Got a problem with your dog? Whether it’s about behaviour, training, health, or general care, the Your Dog experts are here to help. Our panel includes some of the top names in the dog world, so you can rest assured that you are getting the best quality advice. Just email your problem/query to editorial@yourdog.co.uk or, if you prefer, you can post it to ‘Dog Answers’ at our Bourne address (see page 4). You can also post your query on Facebook www.facebook.com/yourdogmagazine.

OUT & ABOUT

THE EXPERT PANEL

TAMSIN DURSTON is a canine behaviour officer in Dogs Trust’s canine behaviour and research team.

TONY CRUSE is a member of the Association of Pet Dog Trainers and the Institute of Modern Dog Trainers.

VICKY PAYNE BVetMed, MRCVS is a holistic vet based in East Sussex.

HOLLY MASH BVSc, MRCVS specialises in herbal medicine, acupuncture, and nutrition.

JOANNE ANGUS LCGI is a founder member of the Guild of Master Groomers.

JOHN BURNS BVMS, MRCVS is a vet, and founder of feed company Burns Pet Nutrition.

STEPHEN JENKINSON is access adviser to Your Dog, the Kennel Club, and local councils.

GROOMING SIGNS OF STUDY

What qualifications should I expect my groomer to have?

Tina Loverall, Shropshire.

Joanne says: At present the grooming industry is not regulated and therefore, unfortunately, anyone can set up as a groomer — qualified or not! There are a range of recognised grooming qualifications that all ensure your groomer has studied their craft and learned about working safely to care for your pet. You should be looking for an Ofqual regulated qualification of which City & Guilds is probably the best known. The Level 2 qualification is an assistant qualification and a Level 3 Diploma is the full qualification. It would also be very useful if your groomer held an animal first aid qualification.

QI was recently walking across a field of stubble when the farmer told me off for not keeping my dog, Sam, under ‘close control’, which he said was required by law and meant on a lead. I didn’t think I was doing anything wrong. Sam was a few metres ahead of me but he doesn’t wander off the path as it’s uncomfortable to walk on the stubble.