Category Archives: cases

Where to find emergency care?

Your Guide To Handling An Out-Of-Hours Dog Emergency

Your Guide To Handling An Out-Of-Hours Dog Emergency

 

You never want anything bad to happen to your dog, but, sadly, sometimes these things do happen. It can be made worse if it is out of hours and you do not know where to turn for advice and guidance. As a dog owner you should always have the number of your veterinary practice with you, and make sure you know the number for an out of hours emergency vet (if you vet doesn’t already provide this – Thankfully we do). Here is our guide on what to do in the event of a dog emergency.

 

What constitutes an emergency?

The first step to handling an out of hours emergency is to remain calm and assess whether the situation is actually an emergency or not. Many people panic and rush around trying to find an emergency animal hospital, but this response can cause more harm than good.

Here is a list of different situations you may find yourself in that require an emergency vet:

 

  • Your dog is panting, can’t lie down comfortably and keeps trying to vomit
  • Your dog is extremely weak or collapses
  • Your dog can’t breath properly 
  • Your dog has bloody diarrhoea or vomit
  • Your dog can’t / won’t eat for over 24 hours – (particularly in younger puppies)
  • Your dog is unable to urinate
  • Your dog has a seizure (they can come in clusters and become more frequent over time)
  • Your dog has lost the use of its hind legs – this is more common in dogs with long backs and short legs and can be a sign of spinal damage. Rapid treatment can significantly improve their subsequent quality of life in such circumstance.
  • Your dog has eaten a poison – always try to bring us the packet or label of the substance they have eaten.
  • Your dog experiences a sudden trauma or he / she is in severe pain.

Under the Animal Welfare Act severe pain requires you to seek emergency medical assistance. 

 

Immediate treatment you can perform yourself.

To help offset the effects of an emergency, or to handle some minor injuries yourself, here are some steps you can take. Keep your dog warm at all times, unless of course they are suffering from hyperthermia (overheating).

Place a tightly wrapped towel or a bandage over any wounds or bleeding, or, if you cannot bandage the area, place a pad on the area and press down firmly until you are with the vet. However, it is important that you do not apply your own splint. Run cold water over any scalded or burned areas for five minutes.

Under no circumstances do we recommend that you make you make your dog vomit.

 

Your Guide To Handling An Out-Of-Hours Dog Emergency

 

Where to find emergency care for your dog.

 

Do you have a pet emergency? If so call us straight away on 0208 567 2724. 

This is our main Ealing surgery number and it will give you access to veterinary advice 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. Our team will attend out of hours emergencies from our Ealing surgery between the hours of 7am and 10pm everyday. Between the hours of 10pm and 7am urgent cases will be seen at the local 24 hour clinic in Richmond run by Medivet.

If you call us when the surgery is closed, our recorded message will provide you with the contact number for the veterinary surgeon on call.

It is always advisable to call in advance, so we can give you the best advice and prepare for your pets arrival.

 

What to expect when you arrive. 

 

Once you arrive, you will need to be clear and concise in providing our team with as much information as possible regarding the emergency. For example, if your dog has swallowed or eaten something they shouldn’t have, you need to tell the vet exactly what it was and ideally provide the labelling.

It can be helpful to take any medications your dog is currently receiving with you and any relevant notes you may have especially if you are not seeing your usual vet. If you are already a client of Young Veterinary Partnership our team will be able to access your pets records from any of our four other surgeries.

In many cases, while your dog is undergoing treatment, you will be unable to remain in the room with them. However, you may need to be present in some circumstances, and, during these times, it will be up to you to help them stay calm.

 

Where to find emergency care?

What constitutes an emergency?

 

Insurance, costs and payment.

Depending on what the problem is with your dog, the costs may run quite high. You need to be prepared for this and ensure you have necessary funds. Here at Young Veterinary Partnership the Out Of Hours charge is £132.00 for a consultation, (there is a surcharge of £63.66 for unregistered clients). After 10pm all emergencies are seen by Medivet 24 hour clinic, their consultation charge is £143.29.

Please note: If your pet requires hospitalisation, and / or further treatment, these charges will be in addition to the consultation fee. Emergency Out Of Hours fees will vary from patient to patient.

Such topics are never pleasant, which is why it’s always worth having full insurance for your dog. To make a veterinary fees claim, you will need to pay an excess or additional charges, but insurance will help make such unwanted situations much more affordable. Take your insurance certificate and claim form with you.

 

What you can have planned in advance to make the process easier?

 

Beyond sorting out suitable insurance, there are not many other steps you can take to prepare for any emergencies. If you are a registered client with us, our team will be able to access your pets record from any one of our four West London surgeries.

You can also prepare a dog-specific first aid kit in your house, in case you ever have an emergency. Beneficial items to include are things like large bandages, saline solution, a muzzle and an Elizabethan dog collar. Finally, always have the contact number of your veterinary surgeon with you as you can never predict when a dog emergency may arise.

 

Blog and images supplied from Zoetis

Written by Gemma Hopkins BVETMED, CERTVC, MRCVS

We hope you enjoy reading our Summer Newsletter.

Heat Stroke And How To Prevent It In Your Pet

Heat Stroke And How To Prevent It In Your Pet

Our Summer Newsletter has arrived, it includes a few tips to keep your pet fit and well at this time of year. Keeping Cool! Paddling pools may help keep dogs cool and they should have free access to water at all times. Heat stroke is a common, and serious problem, learn how to avoid it here.

 

Heat stroke

 

 

Insect alert!

Bees and wasps are tempting to play with for both cats and dogs but will deliver a nasty sting if provoked! These are painful and can cause sudden swellings on faces or paws. Most stings will benefit from prompt veterinary attention. Find out some of the other hazards to watch out for in our Summer News.

 

Picture credit: USDA Agricultural Research Service

Picture credit: USDA Agricultural Research Service

 

Guinea pigs can live in or outdoors

but it is important they have enough space to run and play. Our Summer Newsletter discusses some of the things you need to be aware of to keep your piggies happy and healthy. They are susceptible to mite infections, the signs to watch out for are included here.

 

It is important to check them at least once a day.

It is important to check your guinea pig at least once a day.

 

We hope you enjoy reading our Summer Newsletter, if you have any questions on the items mentioned contact our friendly team for further advice.

 

Don’t forget to find us on Facebook, Twitter and subscribe to our You Tube for more top pet care tips and videos.

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.

 

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.

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A case of Tetanus in a puppy

Upright ears in a case of tetanus

Upright ears in a case of tetanus

tetanus

tetanus

A case of Tetanus: This is Barney Barnard a 6mth old Border Collie puppy. When Barney was 3mths old he came to us showing some very unusual signs. He was unable to eat properly, his ears were erect, lips pulled back and he walked with very stiff front legs. After some tests and research Barney was diagnosed with Tetanus and started on intensive treatment. We are all very pleased that after a long 3mths of treatment Barney appears to have made a full recovery. The pictures  show Barney with signs of Tetanus and as he is recovering.
Tetanus is an uncommon disease in dogs. Tetanus is caused by a bacteria called Clostridium Tetani, which is found in soil. Dogs can get Tetanus if the bacteria gets into wounds or from chewing sticks. This bacteria produces a toxin which causes paralysis. Cats can also get this disease but they are more resistant to it. The signs for Tetanus start appearing 5 – 18 days after the infection.
The main clinical signs we look for are:
*Stiff legs and a short, shuffley walk,
*Elevated tail,
*Contraction of the muscles in the face so it looks like the dog is smiling.

Luckily it is a very rare condition, so we hope we don’t see another case for a long time !
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Cat heart disease – veterinary ultrasound scan

Cats can develop heart disease called cardiomyopathy. The most common form is caused by a thickening of the heart muscle (hypertrophic cardiomyopathy).

Unfortunately cats often hide this problem very well, and may show no symptoms until seriously ill.  Your vet may be able to hear a heart murmur or irregular rhythm, which could indicate a problem.  It is important to have regular check ups (at least yearly) so that your vet can check for problems like this. The best way to diagnose this disease is by ultrasound scan.

This video shows a normal cat heart on ultrasound scan. You can see the moving heart valves (mitral valves) of the left side of the heart towards the bottom of the picture. These  valves are between the top chamber called the atrium and the bottom chamber called the ventricles.

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Lifesaving surgery for Buster

Buster a 9 month old Springer Spaniel was attacked by a Bull Mastiff whilst out for a walk on his lead with his owner. He was rushed to our Hounslow surgery, where he was given immediate treatment for shock, and placed on a fluid infusion pump.

Buster had severe bite wounds to his head and neck. Further investigations of his wounds  revealed that he had suffered a 90% laceration to his wind pipe (trachea). This was a life-threatening injury, so  Buster was anaesthetised and had an airway tube passed across the torn wind-pipe to administer oxygen and anaesthetic gas, before being rushed into the operating theatre, where his torn wind-pipe was repaired, together with other skin wounds.

Buster needed close anaesthetic monitoring for this delicate surgery and required a  continuous ecg (monitoring heart rate and rhythm) and blood pressure monitoring, throughout the procedure.

torn wind-pipe (with orange airway tube visible)

repairing wind-pipe

Buster’s breathing immediately improved, and he was kept in the hospital to monitor his recovery.

Buster recovering from surgery

Buster continued to recover well and here he is the day following surgery looking a little the worse for wear, but progressing encouragingly well. His appetite had returned which is always a good sign!

one day post surgery