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 An
example of future objectives being currently considered was the
installation of a Hydrotherapy pool for dogs, the diversification in year
five , enables dogs with muscle injury, obesity, post operative recovery
and other medical purposes to improve recovery through swimming. A survey
was conducted initially of all the Veterinary Surgeons in the Gwent area.
The response was very encouraging and a further 50 mile radius of vets
were targeted. Again the response was good, other avenues were
investigated such as, Police dogs, Racing dogs, Show dog people and
training/obedience centres. The response was very positive. Staff were
trained with the Canine Hydro Association and Orthopaedic Veterinary
Surgeon's also attended a Veterinary Animal Physiotherapy course. The poll
was situated in a custom built building with a grooming table and drying
facility.
 To
compliment the Hydro Therapy Centre, a Canine Fitness Centre was built in
year seven. This houses an Exerciser, (Electronic Dog Walker) that dogs
have progressed sufficiently can use, before going into the pool. Also we
have a weighing Scales to monitor the diet progress of obese dogs, along
with several of our recommended trade foods. A grooming table and dryer is
now housed there to save the dogs having to be walked up to the grooming
room near the main kennels.
We recommend alternative remedies (Deer Velvet) and also veterinary
products Synquin, Metacam, Cartrophen etc. A veterinary surgeon
specialising in Acupuncture has a clinic here one afternoon a week to
compliment the hydrotherapy.
The wide range of facilities and services provided has grown from
strength to strength, the business also offers a rescue/re-homing service
for Monmouth County Council Dog wardens who collect stray dogs. The
kennels liaise with the dog wardens and the RSPCA, as well as various
other re-homing centres/breed rescue societies, in Gwent and other parts
of the country.
  We
have also successfully placed dogs with hearing dogs for the deaf.
All
dogs, leave when returned to health, not as pictured. We board for breed
rescue societies.
 Also
a provision has been made for a Special Care Nursery Block, where dogs
needing special attention can be cared for. This includes old dogs, young
puppies, diabetics, dogs with heart problems and those that need rest
after injury. No other kennels in the Gwent area provides this facility.
 Concerning
qualifications, no specific qualification is required, however, small
animal care courses or qualifications are considered important, but not
essential. Experience of working with animals is rated higher, as is an
aptitude towards animals and their care and understanding. Animal
psychology as well as animal husbandry are qualities that are preferred.
The personal qualities that are required involve a good telephone
manner, an ability to liaise with customers, an understanding of animal
behaviour, stamina and a good sense of humour.
 The
style of management tends to be one of democratic, it is hoped that
everyone at Keepers Cottage is part of a team. Staff are asked to discuss
uniforms (red sweatshirts, t-shirts, polo shirts and fleeces, with black
trousers, leggings or shorts and baseball hats) which are changed
according to the fashion/season.
The prioritising of refurbishment, improvements and work rota's are all
discussed in kennel meetings. The appropriate kennel for the dog is
discussed and its welfare during its stay to ensure a nervous dog is
happy, an aggressive dog is not a threat and a dog that may become ill is
suitably cared for. The staff are encouraged to keep up good communication
levels not only with each other, but also with the weekend staff and part
time staff to ensure they are kept up to date with what is going on.
At the end of the summer season the staff are all taken out for a
business paid meal as a thank you for all the hard work during the busy
summer season. Staff are encouraged to welcome work experience students,
and often a barbeque or special meal is arranged at the end of their stay. |
