Barks & Pals - Dog Walking and Pet Services

30/04/2025

One good piece of advice we received during our most recent first aid course was to call the vet before heading there, as not all vets have anti poison treatments readily available.

🐍⚠️ Adder Alert: Protect Your Dogs This Spring and Summer! ⚠️🐍

As the weather warms up, we start seeing more of the UK's only native venomous snake — the adder. While they are shy creatures, adder bites can be very dangerous for dogs. Adders generally only bite if they are stepped on or disturbed Here’s what you need to know:

🌿 Where are adders found?
Adders are most commonly found in heathlands, sand dunes, open woodland, and grassy areas — especially where there’s long grass, undergrowth, or sun-warmed rocks. They are a protected by the wildlife and countryside act 1981

⏰ When are bites most likely?
Adders are more active during the warmer parts of the day, typically late morning to early evening, as they bask in the sun to regulate their body temperature.

🚨 If you suspect your dog has been bitten:

Keep your dog as calm and still as possible to slow the spread of venom.

Carry your dog (if you can) back to the car — avoid letting them walk.

Seek immediate veterinary attention — call us ahead so that we can prepare for your arrival.

Do not attempt to treat the bite yourself or try to suck out the venom.

⚡ Signs of an adder bite may include:

🐍Swelling (often sudden) around the bite

🐍Pain and lameness

🐍Pale gums

🐍Weakness, vomiting, or collapse (in severe cases)

🐍Early treatment can make all the difference — time is critical! 🐾

More information on Adder bites can be found on our website
https://www.wylievets.com/news/has-my-dog-been-bitten-by-an-adder

30/04/2025

We can’t stress this enough.

29/04/2025

🚨 WARM WEATHER PROTOCOL 🚨

Walks may be adjusted or replaced with house visits to keep your dogs safe, cool & cared for.

Please read all the information below. If you have any questions, we are just a phone call or email away
👇🏼

28/04/2025

‼️

This is Oaveed Rahman aka Obi Khan, aged 25, a former backyard breeder operating under the name Bad Boyz Kennel and founder of a so-called dog rescue called Save a Paw UK based in Crays Hill, Billericay, Essex.

Rahman has operated his one-man rescue, which is unregistered and has no charitable status, since late 2024. In the months since, he claims to have rehabilitated and rehomed dozens of reactive large-breed dogs. Quite the miracle worker then considering most rescues are bursting at the seams with 'problem' dogs, who are nigh-on impossible to rehome in the current climate.

Rahman apparently tells people he is rich with a mansion and farm with acres of land, but there is no evidence of either. He boasts of having "six degrees" in canine behaviour and training but his qualifications are dubious to say the least.

He reportedly pockets a £250 donation, sometimes more, for every dog he takes on and promises anxious owners that they will receive updates on their pet's progress. Then, deafening silence ...

To date, 46 dogs, including those pictured, have effectively vanished without trace since being surrendered to Save a Paw UK. Few if any, have ever seen a vet as their microchips remain unscanned, the registration names unchanged. If he bothers to reply to former owners, it's to feed them vague platitudes like "your dog is in a new home and doing well". He refuses to provide any proof of this, however, citing data protection laws of all things.

Some people are now so worried about their dogs that they have demanded that Rahman show 'proof of life'. When pushed, he reportedly becomes defensive and aggressive or simply blocks people.

There is speculation that dogs are being sold into dog-fighting with Rahman working in conjunction with the Crays Hill travelling community to move dogs covertly around the country. Or maybe he's just taking the money and killing the dogs. These are just rumours though and Rahman emphatically denies any wrong-doing.

The priority is to find out what has happened to the 46 missing dogs and to urge anyone considering giving their dogs to Save a Paw UK to please think again.

To learn more or share information, please follow the page Is Save a Paw a Rogue rescue .

27/04/2025

Sitting in front of a computer for 6 hours to complete our first aid training just wasn’t enough. We are definitely more hands on, visual learner.

Today, we dedicated another 5 hours to learning and refreshing our skills with a second, in person first aid training session. Why? Because we care deeply about dogs, whether they’re yours or ours and their safety will always be our #1 priority.

Continuing to learn and grow is part of our promise to give every animal the care and protection they deserve 💙

🥰 What a fabulous group on today's Canine First Aid Workshop.

🐕 Every single person today works in the dog profession in one way or another. We had groomers, dog walkers, kennel hands, daycare staff, veterinary assistants, dog trainers and dog training assistants. All gaining or updating their level 3 accredited qualification.

🗣We all had our own stories of situations that needed first aid treatment. Some with their own dogs and some with dogs they work with.

🐶 Hopefully you never need to administer first aid but if you did would you know how to do CPR, treat a fracture or bleed, recognise the symptoms of Seasonal Canine Illness or know what to have in your first aid kit?

👩🏼‍🤝‍👨🏻 This is an important skill for owners and professionals to have. Sign up to our mailing list or keep an eye on our socials for our next date.

📷 More pictures to follow tomorrow.

👉 www.theipswichdogtrainer.com

23/04/2025

Hi everyone 👋🏽

We are small local business that focuses on one to one interaction, offering solo dog walks, pop in visits, and dog sitting in Sudbury and the surrounding villages.

We’re fully insured, first aid trained, and DBS checked, with experience caring for reactive, nervous dogs and large breeds - and yes, we welcome banned breeds too.

If you have any questions or would like more information, feel free to send us a message or email us at [email protected] - we’re always happy to help!

We look forward to hearing from you 😄

23/04/2025

We know rats aren’t for everyone, but at Barks & Pals, we don’t discriminate 💛 we absolutely adore them! These funny little creatures each have their own personality, and they’re such charming little characters.

16/04/2025

EASTER HOURS & AVAILABILITIES 🐰

This Easter, we know many of you will be spending quality time with family and loved ones, but don’t forget about your furry & fluffy friends.

We are open to make sure your pups or cats stay happy, entertained, and never lonely while you’re busy. Whether it’s a quick pop in visit, a fun walk, or some playtime to keep them busy, we have got you covered.

Don’t let your dog feel left out this holiday, book in a walk or a visit to ensure they’re getting all the love and attention they need while you celebrate.

Our Easter hours are as seen below 👇🏼

15/04/2025

Too many people are unaware of how to handle a dog attack properly, and this can make the situation even more dangerous. In the heat of the moment, it’s natural to panic. But what often happens is that people react by hitting or striking the dog, which only worsens the situation.

When a dog is in attack mode or feeling threatened, hitting or striking it out of fear or frustration can escalate the aggression. Instead of calming down, the dog may feel more provoked, leading it to cling onto its target even harder. This can increase the risk of injury to both the person and the dog.

It’s crucial to remember that dogs, like people, often act out of fear, territorial instincts, or confusion. The best approach is to stay as calm as possible, avoid sudden movements, and try to de-escalate the situation with commands, a firm but non-threatening posture, and, if possible, using items like a jacket or bag to shield yourself.

Stay aware, stay calm, and know that responding with aggression or panic will only make the situation worse for both you and the dog. Let’s spread the word, being informed could save lives.

14/04/2025

10/04/2025

Very important

🐍🐍 Adder Advice🐍🐍

There have been reports in the news of dogs being bitten by adders.
Adders are the sole venomous snakes in the UK, they tend to be active from early Spring through October. Dogs are most susceptible to bites between April and July, particularly in the late afternoon, around 3 to 4 pm, they tend to be found in woodland areas.

Tips to prevent an adder bites-
* Avoid adder habitats during active months
* If you do walk in these areas keep to paths and keep your dog on a lead
* Put a bell on your dog to alert the adder
* If you see an adder move away slowly and do not provoke it

What to do if your dog is bitten by an adder -
Click the link below -

https://www.vets-now.com/pet-care-advice/adder-bites-dogs/ #:~:text=Carry%20your%20dog%2C%20with%20the,transport%20him%20to%20the%20vet.

05/04/2025

B O N E ✨B R O T H

If you’re looking for a natural, nutrient-packed addition to your dog’s diet, bone broth might be just what you need. Packed with vitamins, minerals, and amino acids, this nourishing liquid offers a variety of health benefits for our furry friends.

Here’s why bone broth is a great addition to your dog’s bowl:

𝑺𝒖𝒑𝒑𝒐𝒓𝒕𝒔 𝑱𝒐𝒊𝒏𝒕 𝑯𝒆𝒂𝒍𝒕𝒉
Bone broth is rich in collagen, glucosamine, and chondroitin, which are essential for maintaining healthy joints and cartilage. These nutrients can help ease the pain of arthritis or aging joints, promoting better mobility for your dog.

𝑷𝒓𝒐𝒎𝒐𝒕𝒆𝒔 𝑫𝒊𝒈𝒆𝒔𝒕𝒊𝒗𝒆 𝑯𝒆𝒂𝒍𝒕𝒉
The gelatin in bone broth helps to support a healthy gut lining, which is crucial for good digestion. It also aids in the healing of any gut inflammation, making it a great option for dogs with sensitive stomachs or digestive issues.

𝑩𝒐𝒐𝒔𝒕𝒔 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝑰𝒎𝒎𝒖𝒏𝒆 𝑺𝒚𝒔𝒕𝒆𝒎
The minerals in bone broth, such as calcium, magnesium, and phosphorus, help strengthen the immune system, keeping your dog’s body better equipped to fight off infections and illnesses.

𝑰𝒎𝒑𝒓𝒐𝒗𝒆𝒔 𝑺𝒌𝒊𝒏 & 𝑪𝒐𝒂𝒕 𝑯𝒆𝒂𝒍𝒕𝒉
Rich in amino acids like proline and glycine, bone broth can help improve your dog’s skin health and coat condition, leaving them with a shinier, softer fur.

𝑯𝒚𝒅𝒓𝒂𝒕𝒊𝒐𝒏 𝑺𝒖𝒑𝒑𝒐𝒓𝒕
Since bone broth is primarily liquid, it helps keep your dog hydrated, especially if they’re not drinking enough water. It’s also a great option for picky eaters, as the tasty flavor encourages them to eat their meals.

𝑵𝒂𝒕𝒖𝒓𝒂𝒍 𝑫𝒆𝒕𝒐𝒙𝒊𝒇𝒊𝒆𝒓
Bone broth is a gentle detox for your dog’s system, helping to flush out toxins and supporting kidney function. It’s an excellent way to help keep your pet’s body in balance.

𝑯𝒐𝒘 𝒕𝒐 𝑺𝒆𝒓𝒗𝒆 𝑩𝒐𝒏𝒆 𝑩𝒓𝒐𝒕𝒉
You can serve bone broth as a standalone treat, pour it over your dog’s food to add flavour, or freeze it into ice cubes to add to meals.

Give your dog the natural goodness of bone broth, and watch them thrive

03/04/2025

It’s – and we’re here for it!

Not every dog thrives on a daily walk. For some, walks can be overwhelming, overstimulating, or simply too much.

The good news? There are alternatives – and scentwork is one of the best.

By tapping into your dog’s natural instincts to sniff and search, you’re not only meeting their physical and mental needs, but helping them feel calmer, more confident, and fulfilled. All from the comfort of your home or garden.

Let’s normalise not walking our dogs when it’s not in their best interest – and instead, explore other ways to grow their world in a way that feels safe and empowering.

Try our 12 free scent detection games today and see the difference for yourself:

https://www.uksnifferdogs.com/12-free-exercises/8-scent-exercises-to-do-with-you-dog-at-home/