In this article, we find out about canine blood donating, and how dogs who give blood are helping the veterinary profession to save lives. We catch up with Pet Blood Bank UK founder Wendy Barnett at the company headquarters in Loughborough, where she talks us through the recent history of this great company. We also get an overview of the process that donated blood goes through, and what happens to it after that.

In this video, dog training expert Jez Rose explains the benefits of chewing items like Kongs and Stag Bars, and how chewing can prevent many behaviour problems. Chewing is such an important activity for dogs for a number of reasons, and Naturally Happy Dogs veteran Jez Rose explains these in more detail. As training and behavior advisor to the Kong company, Jez has a wealth of experience in this area, which he shares with us in this article.

In this video, we visit dog food manufacturer BARF pet foods (Biologically Appropriate Raw Food) to find out what dogs should eat and the best natural way to feed our dogs. We ask Managing Director, Andreas Dauer, how he came to start this company, the ways in which this diet can help dogs, and we find out about the range of foods he provides. As well as providing raw meat, the company also provides supplements and vegetable matter to complement the diet, and Andreas explains the importance of these too. For advice and assistance on quantities and types of raw food to feed your dog, contact BARF UK at www.barfpetfoods.co.uk.

In this video, dog training expert Mary Ann Nester explains dog dancing (heelwork to music / canine freestyle) and tells us all about competing in the sport. Mary Ann has competed with her dancing dogs at Crufts and also judges competitions, as well as being heavily involved in various aspects of the dog world. Here we draw on her vast knowledge in this area, and get a brilliant insight into what judges are looking for in this kind of competition. A 'must-see' video if you would like to start competing!

In this video, veterinary physiotherapist Barbara Houlding explains how hydrotherapy and physical therapy can help dogs who suffer from hip dysplasia. Barbara explains exactly what happens anatomically when hip dysplasia occurs and as it is worsening. Barbara discusses the care and management techniques that can have both a positive and negative effect on a dog with hip dysplasia and the predisposing factors for a dog getting hip dysplasia. Barbara covers many aspects of this affliction and also gives examples of the many ways a dog can be helped, along with looking at any pain medication that may be needed. Keep an eye out for our other videos on pain management and other therapies such as Bowen or Galen massage that could also be of benefit to your dog.

In this video we hear from Karen Lawe about what it is like to live with a deaf dog and how deaf dogs enjoy normal lives including walks and training. Karen Lawe (Deaf Dog Network), Julie Hopton (owner of a deaf dog) and Mick O'Neal (volunteer at Battersea Dogs Home) here give us first hand experience of what it is like to deal with a dog with hearing difficulties. The test for dog deafness is the B.A.E.R test and measures brain function. Deafness can be present in one or both ears to a greater or lesser degree. Certain breeds seem to be more susceptible to deafness than others. Surprisingly, deafness does not seem to present as many difficulties as you might imagine. Dogs compensate using other senses and can respond to hand signals equally as well as to voice commands. The dogs who fare best seem to be ones who have a dog companion they can take signals and reassurance from.

In this video, Lizi Angel explains how to train your dog to enjoy spending time home alone to avoid separation anxiety behaviours such as chewing and destruction. Lizi looks at the second part of A.L.O.N.E. T.I.M.E. - the acronym she uses to help clients to remember part of the treatment plan she suggests to deal with separation distress syndrome in dogs. She explains what each of the letters of T.I.M.E. stand for and how these are to be interpreted. She covers, for example, how to identify triggers to stress and how to desensitise a dog to these triggers or to set up positive connotations to them. She also emphasises the importance of introducing the methods used gradually.

In this video, animal communication practitioner Gemma Blackwell explains what 'talking to animals' is and how it can help to overcome many problems with dogs. Gemma Blackwell of "Pet's Tails" is an Animal Communicator. In the same way that dogs have a natural ability to sense how we feel, she has the ability to quieten her mind and listen in to what the dog is thinking and feeling. What is more, she is able to communicate messages back to the dog. She is therefore able to act as an intermediary between dog and owner. She goes on give some examples of how this has been of practical help.