Vets urged to advise new owners on behaviour
With thousands of puppies and rescue dogs set to enter new homes over the Christmas period, the UK Registry of Canine Behaviourists (UKRCB) is urging vets to include a discussion on training and potential behaviour problems in their first consultations with owners.
Initial visits to practice for health checks or vaccinations are, according to UKRCB, an ideal time for veterinary surgeons to educate new owners about behaviour.
The registry is a nation-wide network of advisors in canine behaviour, who provide a referral service for veterinary surgeons and owners.
With legislation relating to dogs looking set to become stricter, the need for professional advice has never been more important, says Lisa Graham, the UKRCB's press officer.
"New dog owners must view their dog's behaviour as importantly as they view their dog's health," she says. "People now have a greater responsibility to ensure that their dog is well behaved and the first trip to the vet is a perfect time to find out about local advisors who can be contacted for help.
"Christmas is the busiest time for new dog ownership with many people choosing to rehome a dog or bring a new puppy into the home."
Veterinary practices are being urged to help owners safely dispose of any unused and expired pet medicines - not just antibiotics - during November's Animal Medicines Amnesty. 
