TIPS FOR CREATING A PET-SAFE GARDEN Your garden should be a safe place that both you and your pets can enjoy together. However, from poisonous plants and toxic chemicals to mouldy food in compost heaps, there are all sorts of potential dangers that responsible pet owners need to be aware of. ARE YOU READY FOR A DOG? If you’re thinking of adding four paws, an inquisitive nose and a waggy tail to your life, make sure you really know what you’re taking on. Things to consider include cost, time, exercise and training – and the fact that your life will never be quite the same again... Lurchers are usually a cross between a sighthound breed – such as Greyhound, Saluki or Whippet – and a Collie or Terrier. Because they’re a mixed breed, no two Lurchers are the same – in looks or temperament. One might have the stamina of a Collie and the gentleness of a Greyhound – another the cuddliness of a Whippet with the swiftness of a Saluki. A: Greyhounds and Lurchers actually have very specific nutritional needs, which is why Burgess has developed food especially for them. Burgess Supadog Greyhound & Lurcher includes glucosamine to help stiff joints and overworked legs, Omega 3, which is beneficial in helping temperature regulation and promoting a glossy coat and healthy skin, prebiotics to help digestive health, and a slightly lower level of protein, as too much protein may cause anxiety and hyperactivity. Find out more about feeding your dog >>

Carb-rich ingredients: includes all ingredients derived from grains, pseudo-grains, potatoes and other starchy root vegetables, sweet potato and legumes (except whole peas which are categorised under fruit and veg) except for isolated protein and extracted oils. Also includes fibre supplements.A: Because they’re shorthaired and slender, Greyhounds need their very own wardrobe of coats to match the seasons – from waterproof raincoats to light spring and autumn wear and extra cosy winter fleeces. As a rule of thumb, If the weather is chilly enough for you to need a coat, so do they. A: Independent and non-territorial, Greyhounds are unlikely to bark at the door and may not even be bothered to get up to greet your visitors. And, while they may be large dogs, they’re agile and graceful and won’t get under your feet – they’re often quite happy to just be in the same room with you, most probably snoozing on the sofa. They’re also gentle and polite when meeting new people, which makes them easy to take on outings.

There are all manner of rescue charities with Greyhounds and Lurchers waiting for their forever homes – including Greyhound Trust, Forever Hounds and Greyhound and Lurcher Rescue. Reputable rescue organisations will discuss your situation and work with you to find the most suitable canine companion – and offer you support while your new pet settles in. This may mean that you have to wait for the right dog, but it’ll be worth it. Depending on what mix your Lurcher is made up of will dictate how much exercise they’ll require each day. Unsurprisingly, their mixed-breed genes (a hint of Collie, a touch of Terrier) can mean that they have a tendency to become easily bored, which can lead to destructive behaviour. Hide and seek and fetch games are a good way to keep Lurchers mentally stimulated, along with a selection of chew toys as a preferred alternative to things they shouldn’t be chomping on. Protein is deliberately at a slightly lower level as required by pet greyhounds and lurchers. Too much protein may cause anxiety and hyperactivity Want to stay up to date with the latest news, trends and pet care advice? Head over to our Pet Talk blog >> And we’re very proud of our Paul O'Grady's 'No Nasties' dog food range and Hypoallergenic range. All Burgess dog food is a complete food. This means, whatever variety you choose for your dog, it will contain all the nutrients they need in the correct balance.

Any dog being re-homed is likely to be a little anxious and withdrawn, so let them take things at their own pace. Once they feel safe and settled in, their true personality will start to shine through. In the meantime, your Greyhound or Lurcher will be very glad for a quiet bed in an undisturbed area of the house to call their own. In fact, they’re renowned for being extremely affectionate – there’s even a thing called the ‘Greyhound full body lean’, which is just one of the ways these long-legged canines show that they love you. Greyhounds and Lurchers are at their happiest when they are warm, cosy and in their guardian’s company. Make sure you get the correct size for your dog – the piece that goes across the nose mustn’t rub their eyes. Former racing Greyhounds will be used to wearing a muzzle, but it’s important that your dog associates wearing one with positivity and fun. Blue Cross has lots of tips here >>. At Burgess Pet Care, we’re focused on helping pets and pet people understand more about the importance of healthy nutrition and caring for their animal companions in the best way possible. Here are some of the ways we can help:

DO YOU TALK TO YOUR DOG? Is talking to your dog the first sign of madness? In fact, not talking to your dog is the first sign that you’re not making the most of the incredible human/canine relationship. Research over the last couple of decades reveals that dogs can understand human communication in ways no other species can. YOU'RE MY BEST FRIEND Which would you choose – a night out with your friends or night in on the sofa with your dog? If it’s the latter, then you’re not alone. More than half of pet owners admit they enjoy the company of their animals more than that of their human friends, according to a poll.You may also need to invest in a muzzle – these can be really helpful for taking fearful dogs to the vet or out in public. Blue Cross recommends the Baskerville muzzle – its open basket weave allows the dog to breathe freely – and is available from vets and good pet shops.