THE LATEST ‘Know Your Breed’ event at Bromsgrove’s Clent Hills Vets was hailed a great success after around 35 per owners turned up to celebrate Dachshunds.
The get-together, on January 29, saw same-breed pet owners and their dogs meet up for an evening of information, socialising and fun.
An expert panel provided professional advice on health conditions specific to Dachshunds and other topics included what to look for when buying a puppy of that breed.
Clent Hills Vets Stephanie Greenwood, who is passionate about this type of dog, shared her views on what a healthy and strong Dachshund should look like.
One of the biggest discussions of the night was around IVDD – Intervertebral Disc Disease – a condition where cartilage between the spinal discs degenerates over time, causing a degree of back problems, the most serious being paralysis.
IVDD can affect around one in four Dachshunds during their lifetime.
Guest speaker Tim Easter, a veterinary surgeon from Willows Veterinary Centre and Referral Service, talked about the importance of having a good weight and exercise routine to help prevent back problems, and he demonstrated a head to toe neurological examination.
The event was originally due to be held before Christmas but was postponed due to weather conditions.
Dachshunds attending the re-scheduled event were invited to wear their best Christmas jumper or party outfit with prizes for the best ones.
Judges Tim Easter and Emily Ashdown judged Moose, a mini smooth Dachshund, to be the best-dressed. They said he looked adorable in his reindeer outfit.
Amy Holloway, Clent Hills Vet’s marketing manager, said: “We started our Know Your Breed events back in May 2017 and have so far covered Labradors, Pugs and French Bulldogs, Cavalier King Charles Spaniels, and now Dachshunds.
“These events are free to attend and have proved hugely popular. Guests really enjoy meeting other same breed owners to share experiences.”
Dachshund owner Mrs Tustin added “It was a very informative evening and a pleasure to attend.”
