Book Review:

The Fast Track
Puppy Survival Kit

By Lyn Fleet and Helen Roberts

THIS is not a book that anyone will find hard going, difficult to read or one that will take a long time to finish. It is a little book crammed full of big ideas and hints and common sense information.

It begins with the first night you bring your puppy to his new home - of course he is going to cry and be unsettled. It may take a week before he accepts and feels comfortable in his new bed. You need to be as close to him as possible during the night when he is missing his siblings and mum to keep him warm and snug.

Don't forget to make some house rules and keep to them from the beginning - it is no use deciding on a rule after the puppy has already broken it. If the rules are in place from the first day then your pup knows what to expect from day one.

The two most important basics for a puppy? These are fresh, clean water and plenty of it; and plenty of chew toys to develop the teeth. The pup that has both these considerations is off to a good start. And close to that is a good, healthy diet - as much of his food as possible freshly prepared - and constant socialisation.

There are hints on choosing a name for your pup, how to puppy-proof your home (many household cleaners and even foods like chocolate are poison to your pup).

Grooming, car travel (hopefully without a sick dog), indoor kennels, and house training are all covered and plenty more. If you are thinking of buying a pup then this little book will prepare you for the event.

$10 plus $3 p&p. To order in New Zealand email: Ziggy.peters@xtra.co.nz or in Britain Phone-Fax: 0151 734 2166, Fast Track Dog Training & Behaviour Services, for price and postal address. - EP