Pet owner's glossary

Core dog scheme: multivalent (distemper, parvo, adenovirus) + rabies. Vaccines are recorded in the vet passport — the only document for travel, hotels, shows.

An ISO 15-digit chip under the skin between shoulder blades. Mandatory for EU travel and registration. A chip is not GPS — it's an ID; the number must be in a registry with your contacts.

Neuter — males, spay — females. Optimum 6–12 months (breed-dependent), cuts mammary cancer risk (up to 90% if early) and pyometra. Not 'psychological trauma' — medical prevention.

Puppies — from 3 weeks, adults — every 3 months (outdoor) or 6 months (indoor). 10–14 days before vaccination is mandatory, else the vaccine underperforms.

A 1–9 scale: 4–5 is normal. Ribs not visible but easily felt; waist visible from above. Obesity shortens a dog's life by ~2 years — diabetes, joints, heart.

In dogs 1–2 times yearly for 2–3 weeks, first at 6–15 months. Cats cycle year-round. Never leave unsupervised on walks — 'just a minute' = pregnancy.

80% of dogs over 3 have periodontal disease. Brush 2–3×/week or use dental chews. Bad breath is a symptom, not a norm.

A trainer teaches commands and exercises. A behaviorist addresses causes: fears, aggression, anxiety. Behavior problems go to a behaviorist, not 'dominance methods'.