Author Archives: hounslowvets

Picture Credits Pintrest

Helping Children To Cope With The Loss Of A Family Pet

 

Helping Children To Cope With The Loss Of A Family Pet

 

Losing a family pet may be one of the first deaths we experience as children. Children should be told the truth about their pet, and from someone they know. The death of the pet should be explained in honest, simple language that they will fully understand. If possible the child should be warned if their pet is terminally ill or if euthanasia is going to be performed so that they can ask questions, prepare themselves for the loss and say their farewells. If your child wishes to be present at the time of euthanasia or to see the pet’s body afterwards, then please discuss this with your vet who will be able to offer advice. It is important to allow time for discussion at this very sensitive time; be prepared to show your feelings and talk about the animal’s death. Children may want to make some mark of remembrance to their dead pet. If burial of the body is not possible they may want to bury a momento, such as their pets toy or lead, in a favourite spot and plant some bulbs or flowers. Some children may want to draw pictures or write poems. This will help them grieve and come to terms with the loss. Children who can grieve and then let go of their grief will be better prepared for future losses in their life.

picture credits Facebook

picture credits Facebook

 

Grief

Pets are considered to be a big part of our family and an integral part of our lives and we may mourn at their death as if we have lost a human friend or member of the family. The depth of emotion felt is often unexpected, but when you consider the friendship that may have been lost, the feelings of grief are not surprising. Each of us experiences the grieving process in a unique way. Often the first reaction is disbelief. It may be hard to accept that our animal is no longer with us. The house feels so empty and it is difficult to come to terms with the fact that your pet will not be coming back. The feelings of loss may be particularly deep if you have depended on your pet for emotional support. You may feel very sad and low for a while. Sometimes the loneliness is magnified by a lack of understanding from others. Some people may lose confidence and feel anxious about other animals that are in their care. It helps to share your feelings with a friend, a member of the veterinary staff or someone else who has had a similar experience. The PetSavers charity also offer a Pet Bereavement Support Service: 0800 0966606, their experienced team offer a sympathetic ear for recently bereaved pet owners.

Companionship

The pets in our lives are treated the same as a family member and they are very special to us. There are many different ways that animals contribute to our lives. Pets can bring us immeasurable rewards in the form of companionship, protection, relaxation, exercise… to name but a few. When grieving for your pet remember all the good times that you have been through together and focus on these.

 

Nothing can prepare you for the loss of a pet, through death or enforced separation, grieving is a sad and difficult experience for any pet owner. We’ve put together this blog with the help of PetSavers to help you come to terms with the loss of your pet.

 

Euthanasia ….

We are responsible for the animal during its lifetime, and we are also responsible during the time of illness and death. It is natural to feel guilty when considering euthanasia. Sometimes we may feel angry that the animal cannot be saved and often think… ‘If only I had done… things could have been different’. It is important to discuss your concerns with our experienced team, who will be able to advise and guide you. This should re-assure you that the decision you have made, whatever the reason for euthanasia, has been the most appropriate one.

Picture Credits Pintrest

Picture Credits Pintrest

 

Grief

Pets are considered to be a big part of our family and an integral part of our lives and we may mourn at their death as if we have lost a human friend or member of the family. The depth of emotion felt is often unexpected, but when you consider the friendship that may have been lost, the feelings of grief are not surprising. Each of us experiences the grieving process in a unique way. Often the first reaction is disbelief. It may be hard to accept that our animal is no longer with us. The house feels so empty and it is difficult to come to terms with the fact that your pet will not be coming back. The feelings of loss may be particularly deep if you have depended on your pet for emotional support. You may feel very sad and low for a while. Sometimes the loneliness is magnified by a lack of understanding from others. Some people may lose confidence and feel anxious about other animals that are in their care. It helps to share your feelings with a friend, a member of the veterinary staff or someone else who has had a similar experience. The PetSavers charity also offer a Pet Bereavement Support Service: 0800 0966606, their experienced team offer a sympathetic ear for recently bereaved pet owners.

The Future …

After a while you will feel more able to direct your energies towards the future. Some people will soon want to fill the gap left by the loss of their pet. Other people may not be ready to get another animal for some time and may feel as if they are betraying their deceased pet by investing time and love in another one. Only you will be able to decide when you are ready to introduce a new animal into your household. We should understand that a new animal does not replace the pet that has been lost but brings into the home a new presence that fills the emptiness. If you do not feel ready to get a new pet, why not visit a local animal shelter and offer a few hours of your time helping to care for the homeless animals that need exercise and an extra cuddle.

PetSavers Logo

This blog has been written and supplied by PetSavers, this charity that raises funds for studies into the prevention, treatment and/or cure of illnesses and conditions affecting our pets, so that they can enjoy longer, fuller and healthier lives. You can help to support the charity by visiting www.petsavers.org.uk they also offer an e-newsletter to keep you updated with their latest news. If you, or someone you know is struggling to cope with the loss of their pet please offer them the PetSavers Pet Bereavement Service: 0800 0966606.

 

Not all dogs can swim!

7 things to consider before taking your dog swimming this summer

7 things to consider before taking your dog swimming this summer

 

Now that summer is here and the mercury is rising, it’s not just us humans who want to make the most of the warm weather. Dogs enjoy frolicking in the great outdoors, and what better way for them to cool down than with a splash around in the sea, a pool or a lake? Although this seems great fun for any pooch, it’s worth keeping the various risks such as blue green algae in mind, to ensure a safe and enjoyable outing.

 

1) Safety comes first

Is it safe for dogs to go swimming? If you’re a dog owner and have been pondering this question, consider a few things before letting your canine loose in the water.

 

2) Not all dogs can swim!

Despite ‘doggy paddle’ having a reference to our canine friends, it’s wrong to assume that all dogs can swim. Before you take your dog to the water’s edge, consider that certain breeds and sizes of dogs are better suited to swimming than others. Medium to large dogs, such as Labradors and golden retrievers, take to the water with ease, but top-heavy dogs with short legs and large chests, such as bulldogs, boxers and dachshunds, can struggle to stay afloat. Additionally, think twice about taking your dog swimming if it has special needs.

The fact is, not all dogs actually like to swim, so if your dog isn’t showing willing to get wet, don’t force the situation.

 

 

Safety comes first

Dogs enjoy frolicking in the great outdoors, and what better way for them to cool down than with a splash around in the sea, a pool or a lake?

 

3) Learning to swim

When introducing your dog to the water, do it gradually and slowly so they feel comfortable and won’t panic. Never toss them into the water. Dogs can tire easily, so don’t keep them in the water for too long, especially if they’re a puppy or older dog. They may be wearing a fur coat, but this won’t necessarily stop a dog from getting cold in the water, so keep swim sessions brief to prevent the risk of hypothermia.

Train your dog so that it learns to come out of the water on command, or if you’re using a pool, teach it to get to the edge easily and safely. Retrieving toys are useful to have during water safety and obedience training.

It’s worth investing in a flotation vest for your dog, especially if you go out on a boat. Buy a vest that has a handle on the back so that you can easily haul your dog out of the water.

 

4) Assess the dangers

Before you let your dog loose in the water, take a moment to assess how safe it looks. If you’re at the beach, consider whether currents, tides or strong waves could pose a danger. Are there any hidden obstacles lurking under the water, as well as on land, that may injure your dog? Broken shells, jellyfish, sharp objects and debris spring to mind. Does the water look clean? Scan the horizon to see if any boats nearby could cause dangerous undercurrents.

Crucially, don’t let your dog in the water unless you are completely certain he or she can easily get back on land. If you wouldn’t enter the water yourself, don’t put your dog at risk, either. Once your dog is in the water, supervise them at all times.

 

5) Blue green algae

 

You tend to find blue green algae at lakes, freshwater ponds or streams

You tend to find blue green algae at lakes, freshwater ponds or streams

 

Watch out for Blue green algae on lakes, ponds and streams.

 

Drowning is one of the biggest concerns you’ll have when taking your dog swimming, but exposure to blue green algae is of equal importance, particularly if contaminated water is ingested. You tend to find blue green algae at lakes, freshwater ponds or streams, and it typically presents as a blue-green, pea soup-like scum on the water’s surface, especially during hot, dry weather.

Also known as cyanobacteria – and not to be confused with the blue green algae powder you can find in health food shops – this type of bacteria found in stagnant water can produce toxins that are often fatal to dogs, even when exposed to small amounts.

If you suspect your dog has been exposed to blue green algae, wash it down immediately with fresh water and go straight to your vet. Blue green algae symptoms to look out for can include vomiting, diarrhoea, seizures, drooling and breathing difficulties. Blue green algae is toxic for dogs and can cause liver failure. If your dog is showing these symptoms contact our experienced team immediately.

The problem with blue green algae is that it’s not always visible, and not all types are poisonous. To be on the safe side, keep your dog away from water where you suspect blue green algae may be present, and take heed of any warning signs.

 

6) Drinking water

It’s not just ingesting blue green algae bacteria in water that causes harm to dogs; if dogs drink too much salt water from the sea this can trigger diarrhoea, vomiting and even dehydration.

Dogs who ingest chlorinated water may also get a bit of an upset tummy, so ensure they’re thoroughly hydrated before entering chlorinated water, so they’re less tempted to take a sip. Over-exposure to chlorinated water may also give dogs itchy skin or red eyes, so limit their time in the water.

Always bring a supply of fresh water with you when your dog goes swimming, so it won’t be tempted to drink harmful water sources, and to ensure it stays hydrated. On hot days, be wary of signs of heatstroke in your dog, such as heavy panting, drooling and lack of balance.

 

7) Aftercare

Dogs who enjoy a paddle can be prone to ear infections, so clean and dry their ears after swimming to prevent infection. An ear rinse solution specifically for dogs may be beneficial, ask your vet for more information.

Sand from the beach can also get trapped in your dog’s fur, so give them a good hose down after a swim and use a soothing shampoo if your dog has sensitive skin. Check your dog’s paws for any injuries.

With the right care, attention and precautions, there’s every chance your dog will relish a swim in the great outdoors. Remember to seek advice and get the facts, from experts such as your vet before letting your dog loose in water.

 

Blog and images supplied from Zoetis.

Written by Gemma Hopkins BVETMED MRCVS RCVS

Cats and ticks

What Are Ticks And Do They Infest Cats?

 

What are ticks and do they infest cats?

 

A recent study found that 6.6% of cats in the UK are infested with ticks. So what are they, how can you protect your cat, and what is the best tick treatment for cats?

Where are ticks found?

Ticks are closely related to spiders, with adults having eight legs. They feed on blood and attach to their hosts by anchoring into the skin using their mouths. They are most commonly found in areas of grassland and woodland shared by deer and livestock but can also be brought into urban environments by small mammals like hedgehogs. This means that cats can be exposed in a wide variety of environments.

 

Cats and ticks

What are ticks and do they infest cats?

 

Will ticks make my cat ill?

When ticks bite, redness, swelling and irritation can occur – and sometimes these areas can become infected with bacteria. Cats appear to be relatively resistant to the effects of Lyme disease, but can suffer from other tick-borne diseases such as anaplasmosis, which may require treatment. Infected cats may develop a high fever and raised lymph nodes, so if your cat appears unwell, or if there is a visible reaction at the site of a tick bite, it is best to take your pet to the vet for further advice. The good news is that potentially fatal tick-borne infections such as Babesia felis and Cytauxzoon are not present in the UK.

Are ticks on cats a health risk to people?

Ticks found in the UK can transmit infections such as Lyme disease to humans. People are usually exposed to ticks by walking through pastures, fields and woodland. It is advisable to check yourself every 24 hours if spending time in these areas, and to also use tick repellent spray on skin or clothing. Because cats do visit areas inhabited by wildlife infected with Lyme disease, it is also the case that they may bring infected ticks into homes and gardens. Although owning a pet does not directly increase the risk of Lyme disease in humans, preventing the spread of infected ticks is another good reason to use preventative products on your pets.

 

How can I keep my cat safe from ticks and tick-borne diseases?

Ticks can be managed by physical removal or the use of preventative products.

Physical removal of ticks

As the bulk of tick-borne infections in the UK are thought to take at least 24 hours to be transmitted after tick attachment, pets should be checked every 24 hours and any ticks should be carefully removed. However, this may be easier said than done, as some cats spend long periods of time away from home, and others may not be entirely cooperative!

 

Tick remover

A green tick twister.

 

Rather than sticking to a rigid daily regime of tick checking, do so while grooming or stroking your cat. Run your hands over their body, especially around their face, neck, legs and feet. A tick will feel like a small lump on the skin, and may vary in size from 1mm-1cm. They can be removed with a tick hook, using a simple ‘twist and pull’ action. A fine pointed pair of tweezers can work too, with a ‘straight pull’ technique being used. Crushing the tick with your fingers or a pair of blunt tweezers will increase the risk of disease transmission. Traditional methods to loosen the tick such as the application of petroleum jelly or burning are also best avoided, as these are likely to stress the cat and tick alike.

If in doubt, visit your local Young Vet’s branch, and a vet or nurse will be happy to remove the tick for you and demonstrate the best techniques for you to use at home for tick removal.

 

What are ticks and do they infest cats.

What are ticks and do they infest cats.

 

Use of tick prevention products

The use of products that rapidly kill or repel ticks is useful in reducing tick-borne disease transmission, and also the number of ticks that have to be physically removed. These days, a number of different highly effective preparations should be available from your local vets. If applied correctly, the best tick treatment for cats offer up to a 100% success rate in killing ticks. However, it is still important to check your cats for ticks regularly.

 

What if my cat is travelling abroad?

There are different ticks and tick-borne diseases abroad that are not present in the UK. It is very important, therefore, to treat cats travelling abroad with an effective tick prevention product before, during and after travel. In addition, you should check your cat at least every 24 hours while abroad, and remove any found with a tick removal device. Finally, it can be beneficial to get a vet to check your cat for ticks on return to the UK.

 

If you are concerned about ticks on your cat, do not hesitate to contact our friendly team for more help and advice.

This blog and images have been written and produced by Catdialog team.

Spring alert!

Spring alert!

Spring alert! 

Lilies are beautiful but very toxic to cats. Chewing the leaves or grooming pollen off their coats can lead to severe kidney failure. With Easter just around the corner, our Spring Newsletter discusses the common items in your home that are toxic to pets and the signs of poisoning to watch out for.

 

Spring alert!

 

 

 

Why is worming your pet so important?

 

Many puppies and kittens are born infected with roundworms because they cross the placenta and are also in the milk. Infected adult dogs can show few signs but younger animals can become very poorly. Our Spring Newsletter explains the different types of worms your pet can catch, and which worms can be transmitted to humans!

The good news is worm protection is automatically available in all of our Pet Healthcare Clubs, and becoming a member could save you up to £127 a year! Why not join today and spread the cost of your pets healthcare across affordable monthly payments on a date that suits you!

 

 

Worms are the worst!

 

 

Caring for your elderly cat.

 

Our Spring Newsletter offers some great advice on what to watch out for in your elderly feline friend.  Cats can become more vulnerable to illness in their twilight years, so we have to be super vigilant to ensure they don’t suffer in silence. Regular health checks are a good way of keeping your cat in top shape and picking up medical conditions early on, when they are easier to treat. Spot the signs of arthritis in your older cat.

 

Tabby cat in grass

 

 

We hope you enjoy reading our Spring Newsletter, if you a question on any of the articles mentioned don’t hesitate to contact our friendly for further advice.

Don’t forget to find us on Facebook and Twitter to keep up to date with our latest news and pet advice.

 

Spring alert!

Spring alert!

 

 

In memory of Ruby.

In memory of Ruby.

 

In memory of Ruby.

Xylitol and dogs – Do you know the risks? 

 

This months blog has been bravely written in memory of Ruby a beautiful Hungarian Vizsla, who has passed away due to xylitol poisoning. Her owner, Kate has kindly written this article to help spread the word – Xylitol kills and it is more common in food than you may think.

 

A week ago today our beautiful Hungarian Vizla Ruby died. She was just seven. Losing a beloved family dog is utterly terrible, but our grief is compounded by the fact we might have been able to save her had we known about xylitol.

 

A week ago today our beautiful Hungarian Vizla Ruby died. She was just seven. Losing a beloved family dog is utterly terrible, but our grief is compounded by the fact we might have been able to save her had we known about xylitol.

 

Ruby

 

Ruby died after eating xylitol, a great (for humans) sugar replacement that’s being used increasingly in foods. But it is lethal for dogs. One small piece of chewing gum sweetened with xylitol (most are – have a look) is enough to kill an 8 – 10 kg dog. One piece. There are quite a lot of different substances and foods within the family home that are poisonous to pets and this is one of many, dog owners need to be aware of. It can be found in yogurts, takeaways, cakes, biscuits, toothpaste and peanut butter … any food that manufacturers want to improve by replacing sugar with a healthier alternative. If you are feeding your dog a human food ALWAYS check the label and if you are not sure, don’t take the risk.

 

ruby..

 

Ruby stole two of my homemade brownies. Nothing new – she’s stolen them before from sealed boxes, with no adverse affects – but this time I’d cooked with Xylitol. I had no idea that she should be rushed immediately to the vet to begin intensive, invasive treatment which might – just might – have saved her.

Instead it took until she vomited terribly and collapsed 36 hours later for us to go to the vet. She was transferred to the amazing Royal Veterinary College this is where the xylitol poisoning was diagnosed.

After eight days of battling, critically ill in intensive care, Ruby died. We are heartbroken. What good can come of losing a pet who was the center of our family, loved beyond imagination? We are beside ourselves with sadness and guilt.

 

Only other dog lovers will understand the level of grief. And I would hate you to go through what we are at the moment. So, please, learn about xylitol and the other pet poisons that may be lurking in your home. Check labels, if its not made for a dog to eat, double, triple check it. If your dog is a scavenger, keep a close eye on them both in the home and out and about. Discarded chewing gum, peanut butter in your dogs Kong or Licki Mat, always check the labels. Do they enjoy your leftovers from a delicious takeaway? Some better quality restaurants now use xylitol in their cooking, with takeaways how often do they list every ingredient on their packaging?

 

animal poison line

 

If your pet has eaten something you are concerned about, do not delay, contact your local veterinary surgery or call the Animal Poison Line, at 01202 509000. And no, I didn’t know about this wonderful service either. For a flat fee of £30 they will assess what your pet has eaten and give you  advice on what to do and how urgent it needs to be done. It may save your pet’s life.

 

Spread the word. We need all dog owners to be aware, that this is another toxin that could be in your lurking in your home. We need those who drop gum to know they are leaving a trail lethal to man’s best friend. We need food manufacturers to clearly label foods with xylitol as ‘lethal to dogs’.

 

The Poison Line documents hundreds of deaths from xylitol each year. They think the true figure could be in the thousands. Please don’t let your dog become one of them.

 

ruby face

In memory of Ruby.

Blog and images supplied by Kate, Ruby’s mum.

Our Winter News has arrived!

Winter weight worries!

 

Winter weight worries!

 

Our staff here at Young Vets understand that when the cold winter weather hits, the lure of a cosy sofa and central heating can conspire against us, leaving both pet and owner prone to putting on a few unwanted pounds. This is a problem because while it is all so easy to gain weight, loosing it isn’t nearly so easy! Our Winter Newsletter explains how to monitor your pets weight, looking for a waist line and the problems that obesity can lead to.

 

Overweight pets

Festive alert:

Pieces of string, tinsel and bones from turkeys should be kept well out of reach to avoid an intestinal blockage and the possible need for life saving surgery. Our Winter Newsletter offers advice on how to avoid a Christmas calamity and keep your pet safe during this festive period.

 

 

christmas cat

Does your golden oldie slow down when the cold weather hits? 

Cold winters can make your pet’s joints stiff and painful. Our Winter Newsletter explains which joints are most susceptible to arthritis, the signs to watch out for and the things you can do to help your pet if they are getting a little stiff in their old age. Ever considered a Doggy Swimming Pool – believe it or not – these places are becoming more and more popular and they are great for burning calories whilst not stressing out sore joints. Contact our friendly team if you think this could be beneficial to your pet!

 

nutraquin-web-banner

Have you ever wondered where fleas go for a winter holiday? 

Sadly, the answer is – your home! Did you know that once the weather starts to cool this can be the worst time of year for flea infestations. Our Winter Newsletter explains what invites them into your home and what makes it seem like they appear out of nowhere. If you don’t want any extra visitors in your home over the festive period contact our friendly team to get protection for your pet and your home.

 

Our Winter Newsletter has arrived, it is jam packed with advice to help you and your pet avoid a Christmas calamity over the festive period. If you have a query on anything mentioned give our friendly team a call and they will be able to help you.

 

Our Autumn Newsletter has arrived!

Autumn Alert!

 

   We are pleased to announce our Autumn newsletter has arrived – Autumn Alert!

 

Autumn Alert! 

Older pets will often feel the cold in their joints; becoming sluggish and stiff. Don’t ignore these signs, since arthritis is generally the underlying problem. This can cause significant pain but often our pets are very bad at letting us know just how sore they are.

 

brentford vets puppy

 

Rabbits – What’s up doc?

Our Autumn newsletter discusses the signs to watch out for in your pet rabbit. From feeding to infectious diseases, its all included. We love seeing rabbits here at Young Vets so if you have any queries on the article please don’t hesitate to get in contact!

 

Autumn news

Autumn newsletter.

 

Wasps and Bees

are coming to an end of their summer lives and are often pretty slow, which makes them irresistible play things for dogs and cats. Our Autumn newsletter explains the signs of a sting to watch out for on your pet.

 

Our Autumn newsletter has arrived! It has lots of practical advice to keep your pets happy and healthy this Autumn 2018.

Don’t forget if you like what your reading and want more top pet tips give us a like us on Facebook, follow us on Twitter and subscribe to our You Tube channel for free pet advice!

hyperthyroid cat signs 1

How is your teenage cat behaving?

 

Hyperthyroidism is a common disease in teenage cats, sadly sometimes, their symptoms are missed and referred to as just ‘old age’. Overactive thyroid gland (another name for the condition) is something we see quite regularly in older cats, the good news is diagnosis is fairly simple and there are different treatment options available to suit the individual patient.

 

hyperthyroid cat

 

 

Some signs to watch out for in your cat include :

Vomiting

Dull coat

Change in attitude

Increased thirst

Having ‘Accidents’ around the home

hyperthyroid cat signs 7

Thyroid glands are found in your cats neck, either side of the wind pipe. The glands produce a hormone which controls the body’s metabolism, which is why owners commonly report weight loss as one of the first symptom’s they notice.

Thyroid-Gland-in-Cats

If you cat is showing some or all of the above signs – Don’t panic. The first thing to do is book an appointment with your local vets, The vet will be able to give your cat an all over health and weight check. To diagnose an over active thyroid gland we recommend a blood test, results are prompt and usually back from the lab the next working day.

hyperthyroid cat signs 1

 

 

Results day : Once the diagnosis has been confirmed there are two types of treatment that we offer here at Young Vets :

  • A daily dose of medication given at home (usually tablets) to stop the overproduction of the hormone. If choosing the medication from home option, the owner will need to ensure that the cat is receiving the specified dose at regular intervals (the same time each day).
  • An operation to remove either one or both thyroid glands. We would often recommend 14 days of medication prior to surgery to help stabilize the hormones but following on from the surgery, medication would cease. A speedy recovery is usually followed and the patient can go home either the same or following day.

 

  • If left untreated it can lead to blindness, heart conditions and in extreme cases even death.

 

Following either treatment option, your cats progress will need to be monitored regularly by yourself and your veterinary surgeon but there is no reason your cat should not continue to live a happy, healthy life.

 

If you have concerns over your teenage cat do not hesitate to contact your local Young Vets surgery to discuss your cats case with one of our experienced veterinary surgeons.

 

 

 

It's getting hot out there!

It’s getting hot out there!

 

We all love the warmer weather and summer is a great time to be outside with your pets. Here’s a couple of seasonal tips to keep them fit and healthy:

 

U V Alert :

Pets with white noses and ear tips – particularly cats, are at risk of these areas getting sunburn and this can lead to cancerous changes. High factor pet safe sun cream applied to these areas can reduce this risk .

 

Hitch- hikers :

Summer is prime time for fleas. They can multiply quickly, particularly in multi pet house holds. It’s important to ensure you are using adequate flea and tick protection. Check your pet at least once a day, ticks can be removed with a special tick hook tool, available at all our surgeries.

 

Be sure to insure! 

There are lots of companies offering pet insurance and we understand that picking one can be a bit mind boggling. Vet bills are often unexpected and can mount up quickly, our Summer News gives some helpful advice on what to look out for when choosing your pets policy.

We hope our Summer News helps keep your pet fit & healthy this summer 2018, if you have any questions on the advice included don’t hesitate to contact our friendly team.

 

Don’t forget you can get more FREE pet advice by following us on Facebook, Twitter and You Tube.

 

Guinepig

Our Spring 2018 newsletter has arrived.

 

Our Spring 2018 newsletter has arrived. As the weather warms up, we’ve put together some top tips to help you keep your pets happy and healthy in 2018!

 

Included in our Spring 2018 newsletter : 

 

Vital Vaccinations.

It is important to keep up with annual vaccinations, the diseases we vaccinate against can cause life threatening illnesses. Learn more about the diseases your pet could catch in our newsletter.

 

Understanding Kennel Cough! 

 

Kennel Cough

 

Read our newsletter to the symptoms commonly involved with this condition. Kennel Cough is a highly contagious condition and can be picked up from virtually anywhere your dog goes – don’t be fooled by the name. To ensure your dog is protected, a vaccine is available to reduce the risk of your dog developing the disease. Since Kennel Cough is so easy to catch why not contact us to arrange your dogs vaccine today.

 

Guinea Pigs make excellent pets. 

Like all pets, Guinea Pigs have specific requirements to help ensure they are happy and healthy. Our Newsletter explains the basic requirements for keeping Guinea Pigs; Including what to feed them. Their diet is vitally important to ensure they are healthy and do not develop dental disease. Our newsletter also advises which branches you can give to your guinea pigs to help prevent overgrown teeth.

 

Guinepig

 

Hyperthyroidism and Hypothyroidism – whats the difference? 

 

Both conditions relate to the Thyroid glands located on either side of your pet’s neck. The glands regulate your pet’s metabolic rate. Our newsletter explains the differences between these 2 common conditions and the signs to watch out for in your pet.

 

Our Spring 2018 Newsletter is available now, read it here.