Category Archives: dogs

Winter News Blog❄

BRRRRRR…It’s Cold Outside!

As the days get colder and wetter and the temperature lowers, we take a look at the best ways to keep your pet fit, healthy and happy in our WINTER BLOG!

Did you know it’s not just dogs and cats that suffer from dental disease?! The good news is that early prevention can go a long way to avoiding most dental problems and our Winter Blog talks you through the best ways to look after your rabbit’s teeth.

As we head into the coldest months of the year it can be tempting to skip a walk here and there. However it’s essential to make sure your pets are getting adequate exercise. Our Winter Blog not only has loads of tips on winter walks and weight management but also discusses caring for an arthritic pet during the season.

We hope you love reading our Winter News Blog, if you have a question on any of the articles mentioned please do not hesitate to contact our team for further advice.

Allergies, Itching and parasites.

Leave a reply

Allergies, Itching and parasites.

Allergies, Itching and parasites. As the weather improves, have you noticed your pet becoming more itchy? If your pet is showing signs of a skin problem, have a read through our Summer Pet Blog, it looks at the possible causes of seasonal itching.

Female Cats

will start their first season from as young as four months of age, usually in the Spring or Summer months. Besides preventing unwanted pregnancies, there are many other benefits to neutering your male and female pets, read Our Summer Pet Blog here to understand the benefits of neutering your pet.

Don’t get caught out by Kennel Cough!

Our Summer Pet Blog explains how your dog can contract this highly contagious cough, the signs to watch out for and how to reduce the risk for your dog.

Also featured – Summertime at last! Summer safety tips for your cat, dog and small furries. Rabbits; Just like other pets, rabbits benefit from regular vaccinations and health checks to keep them in tip top condition.

We hope you enjoy reading our Summer News Blog, don’t forget to keep your pets cool this summer. If you have a question on any of the articles mentioned please do not hesitate to contact our friendly team for further help and advice.

We are passionate about pets and will treat your pet with the respect they deserve. Our Brentford surgery is led by Dr Charlotte Attwood MRCVS. We have onsite parking for your convenience and a wide range of services available to help you care for your pet.

My dog just got diagnosed with arthritis – what are my options?

Leave a reply

My dog just got diagnosed with arthritis – what are my options?

My dog just got diagnosed with arthritis – what are my options? Receiving a diagnosis of arthritis in your dog can be a worrying time; you may be concerned about how you manage the condition and have questions about what it will mean for your dog. In this short article, we will look at what arthritis is, discuss the many different treatment options that we now have available to manage the condition and what you can do at home to help your dog.

What is arthritis?

Arthritis is a painful condition of one or more joints, and it can affect dogs of all sizes, ages and breeds. Arthritis in dogs can be due to developmental orthopaedic disease, for example, hip or elbow dysplasia, though some cases do not have any obvious cause and may be due to genetics or age. The condition causes pain and dysfunction of the affected limb, which may be evident through altered mobility, activity level or limping. Though it is a painful and progressive disease that unfortunately cannot be cured, we do now have many options available that can provide pain relief, slow the progression and achieve a good quality of life for affected dogs.

How do we treat/manage arthritis?

We will achieve this through a combination of approaches with our main aims being to relieve pain, maximise comfort, maintain mobility and muscle strength. A variety of medications are available from your vet to address both the pain. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatories (NSAIDS) have been a main stay for therapy for several years and have helped many dogs, however veterinary medicine is continually progressing, and we now have new therapies available to expand our choice with respect to treatment options.

Though you will be working closely with your vet with respect to which medication is most suitable for your dog, there are many things that you can also do that can really make a difference.

Weight control:

If your dog is overweight, this should be addressed; extra weight places increased strain upon the joints. Most veterinary practices run weight clinics for pets and would be happy to help your dog achieve their goal weight in a safe and controlled manner.

Exercise:

Maintaining mobility is important, both from a joint function and a quality of life point of view. Rather than taking your dog on long walks, which run the risk of exacerbating joint pain and inflammation, change your routine to introduce shorter, more frequent walks. Hydrotherapy is also a great option for dogs that like the water, this allows a dog to exercise their muscles without excessive joint strain and is also a good tool to aid with weight loss where this is needed.

Comfort in and around the home:

A comfortable bed is appreciated by all dogs but providing a supportive bed is particularly important for a dog with arthritis as this will maximise the chance of them getting some good quality sleep. Wooden or laminate floors can be difficult for dogs with arthritis to navigate; the lack of grip can lead to slips and falls which can worsen joint damage and pain. Providing non slip mats or rugs can help your dog to get around the house safely. The use of ramps for getting into cars is also important to prevent excessive joint strain as a dog attempts to jump into a boot; they will also save your back from injury!

To conclude, though receiving a diagnosis of arthritis can be concerning, there are many veterinary options available to control pain and many management strategies that can be used to ensure your dog can enjoy a good quality of life even after diagnosis.

Here at Young Vets, we believe that preventative healthcare is very important, as many diseases and problems can be prevented or treated more effectively with early intervention. To help pet owners, we offer a Pet Healthcare Club to help spread the cost of your pets veterinary essentials across affordable monthly payments on a date that suits you.

This blog has been written by Jayne Clark MRCVS, and provided by dogdialog on behalf of Zoetis.

Microchips With Everything!

Leave a reply

Microchips With Everything!

Microchips With Everything!

Having your pet microchipped is absolutely vital! Our Spring News Blog, discussed why microchips are so vital for almost all pets. As you are hopefully aware, it is now compulsory to microchip dogs over the age of 8 weeks old. It is also vitally important to keep your pets microchip details up to date, have you changed your address recently, changed your mobile number – DON’T FORGET to update your pets microchip details.

Looking after your new pet

Thinking of going to a rescue centre to re home a pet this Spring, or contacting a breeder to view a new family member? Our Spring News has put together a check-list of things to do when your new family member arrives! From pet insurance to dental care – there’s lots to remember.

Covid – 19 and early socialisation.

Unfortunately due to Covid 19, the pandemic has made it much harder to socialise young pets. Our Spring News discusses how a good breeder or rescue centre can help start your pets socialisation process when they are young, but if you are struggling with your lockdown pet hitting their Teenage Stage then please do ask our team or seek a qualified behaviourist for advice and support.

We hope you enjoy reading our Spring News Blog – If you have a question regarding any of the articles mentioned do not hesitate to discuss any concerns at your pets next appointment or telephone your local Young Vets Surgery.

Are you new to the West London area – looking for a vet to help you care for your pet? Register with our team today and visit a vet who is passionate about your pet.

Keyhole Surgery.

Leave a reply

Keyhole Surgery.

We are pleased to now be able to offer Laparoscopic or Keyhole surgery for neutering female dogs, removal of retained testicles in male dogs and obtaining certain biopsy samples such as liver biopsies. Please note that your pet needs to weigh a minimum of 10 kg’s for our team to be able to perform keyhole surgery.

Here at Young Vets, we like to be able to provide choice in pet care and treatments where-ever possible, whilst continuing to maintain the highest level of care and service for your pet.

Keyhole surgery requires specialised equipment, additional maintenance costs and a higher level of surgical expertise meaning the cost in unfortunately higher but the benefits to your pet can include >

Reduced post -operative pain.
Reduced time under anaesthesia.
Quicker recovery time post surgery – meaning young dogs won’t miss many puppy school classes.
Minimal scarring, as the incisions required are less than 1 cm in diameter.
Reduced chance of post-operative infection due to minimal sized surgical sites.

During keyhole surgery, routinely the ovaries are removed, whereas during a routine spey surgery your pet’s womb (uterus) and ovaries are removed, meaning shortened time that your pet in under anaesthetic. Neumerous medical studies have shown that there is no need to remove a healthy womb during keyhole surgery.

When booking a neutering surgery with us, what can you expect?

A pre operation health check is provided by one of our experienced veterinary surgeons, ensuring your pet is fit and healthy, ready for surgery.
The surgery itself, is normally performed around the mid day period, ensuring your pet has plenty of time for recovery in our temperature controlled kennels unit.
Your pet will be home with you the very same evening, with pain killers for a comfortable recovery.
Post operative checks, at approximately 3 and 10 days post surgery.
Post – operative home care – Lead walking, minimal jumping up or on surfaces for 10 days.
FREEDOM and normality!

The Keyhole procedures are currently available via our Ealing surgery – If you would like to discuss with our team whether your dog could be a candidate please email our team on 0208 567 2724 for more information.

Pet Paws and Poinsettias.

Leave a reply

Pet Paws and Poinsettias.

Some salt mixtures on paths, and roads can build up between your pets paws, causing limping and sores. So, do check your pets feet regularly and make sure they washed, clean and dry on your return from a walk. As well as a range of common hazards our Pet Paws and Poinsettias Blog also takes a look at winter toxins and your pets, some are seasonal, but most are a year round problem.

How can you try to ensure your pet remains the right weight?

Loosing lock down pounds can be hard for both humans and pets alike. With the onset of winter, it’s very tempting for pets to snuggle up at home, go on less walks and in the process gain some extra weight. Our Winter News offers some great advice on how to monitor your pets weight from home and the problems that weight gain can cause.

Grapes, raisins and sultanas

are also known to be toxic to both cats and dogs. The festive season brings with it a range of winter hazards. Our Pet Paws and Poinsettias Blog, takes a look at some of the most common toxins and hazards around at this time of year that all pet owners should be aware of.

We hope that you enjoy reading our Winter Blog, if you have a query on any of the articles mentioned please do not hesitate to contact our friendly team for more advice. We have been providing a caring service for our clients and their pets across West London for over 50 years. Register your pet with our team today here and visit a vet who is passionate about your pet.

Making a den for your dog

Leave a reply

Making a den for your dog

Making a den for your dog

we hope that this Autumn Newsletter finds you safe and well following Covid – 19, whilst so much has changed recently it is likely that fireworks will continue to plague the life of many pets. With this in mind we’ve included some top tips on helping your pet calm throughout fireworks season this 2020.

Making a den for your dog

Ticks & fleas

another seasonal problem. Our Autumn News takes a look at the two biggest offenders and what you can do to protect your pet and your home.

Autumn Aches

did you know carrying extra weight puts a strain on your pets organs such as their heart and lungs, and especially their joints. Has your pet gained some additional lockdown pounds? Our Autumn Newsletter explains the signs of arthritis and how to help improve the lives of an arthritic pet.

Our vets.

We hope you have enjoyed reading our Autumn Newsletter 2020, if you have a question on any of the articles mentioned please do not hesitate to contact our friendly team for further advice.

Summer News 2020

Leave a reply

Summer News 2020

Dentistry: getting to the root of the problem!

Over time – dental disease can be a painful issue for some pets. A healthy mouth typically has bright white teeth and pink gums. However, over time, an accumulation of plaque can build up and cause painful dental issues. Our Summer News explains the signs of dental disease to watch out for in your pet.

Don’t get the summertime blues!

Play it cool! The Summer heat is also a huge problem for many pets and it is essential to ensure free access to water at all times. Dogs – can easily overheat – leading to heat stroke, with signs of panting, disorientation, collapse and sometimes even death. To keep dogs safe, we suggest shorter walks in the coolest parts of the day – either early morning or very late evening.

Pet Travel Update!

There has been a lot of uncertainty regarding pet travel and the UK’s place in the pet travel scheme post Brexit. Now a Brexit deal has been reached there will be a “transitional period” until December 31st 2020. To understand more about the pet travel scheme and how it may effect your travel plans, read our Summer News here.

If you have any concerns about any of the articles mentioned in our Summer News, please contact our friendly team for help and advice.

Traveling With Dogs – 5 Things Your Dog Needs To Be A Good Traveller

Leave a reply

Traveling With Dogs – 5 Things Your Dog Needs To Be A Good Traveller

With the obvious exception of biscuits and falling asleep by the fire, there aren’t many things that dogs love more than exploring somewhere new. And with the continuing surge of hotels that welcome four-legged travellers, there’s a whole world of discovery out there for both of you. But first, you need to transform your dog into the perfect traveller so traveling with dogs becomes easy to handle.

Here’s a quick guide to some of the areas you will need to cover

1. Crate comfortable

If your pup is hitching a ride in your car, the safest way of traveling with dogs is with a crate. And if you harbour any ambitions about traveling with dogs abroad, a crate is essential if you are flying. Some think crating is cruel – but dogs don’t mind. As long as they are used to it. You can’t just spring a crate on a dog and expect them to be okay with it straight away.

Prep should start a few weeks before you intend on traveling with dogs. Get your dog used to the crate and let them walk in and out as they please. Make sure there’s a nice cosy blanket in there and some toys. Start things off by leaving the crate in the area they would usually choose to snooze. Toss in a toy or treat to entice them to go in on their own. Then progress to shutting them in the crate for just a few minutes at a time – and gradually increase the amount of time they are inside, always praising them with treats for good behaviour.

2. Doing the do on demand

Yes, it’s possible. It just takes a bit of training. And when your dog is able to answer any calls of nature on demand, your travel is less disrupted and it cuts the risk of any embarrassing hotel incidents. Find out how here.

3. Greet and treat strangers well

What’s your dog like with strangers? What about when you aren’t there? If you are traveling with dogs by air or sea, there’s a good chance you’ll have to part company for the journey. You need to know that your pooch will behave with airline or ferry staff. Any incidents and you’ll be back home before your adventure has even begun. Now where’s the fun in that?

4. A dog that never loses its call

Ah, the freedom of the great outdoors. Beautiful, isn’t it? The trouble is, an unfamiliar environment can wreak havoc on your pup’s obedience. Okay, they might come when you call them in your garden or at your local park. But what about when you are in a forest and your pooch sees a hedgehog for the first time? Or goes haring off after a squirrel? The aim is for your dog to come when called – first time, every time. Otherwise it’s safer to keep them on the lead or longline.

5. No funny tummies

Just like humans, doggies can get travel sick. In fact around 27% of dogs are affected. Symptoms include restlessness, anxiety, and excess salivation, and the ultimate unfortunate car incident, vomiting. Thankfully there’s no need to change your travel plans. If you suspect your pup suffers with travel sickness, it can be remedied with simple medication. Book an appointment with your vet.

With a bit of preparation and good training, you can turn any dog into the perfect travel companion. A furry sidekick for your worldly wanders. Whether you are staying in the UK or venturing further, there’s never been a better time for traveling with dogs. Which leaves only one question: what are you waiting for?

Blog supplied by Zoetis.

8 must-dos when taking your dog on the train

Leave a reply

8 must-dos when taking your dog on the train

Taking your dog on the train for the first time? Here are eight simple tips for a fuss-free, waggy-tailed journey. Tickets please!

Newsflash: dogs travel for free on trains. You can take up to two pooches per passenger, gratis. What about that doesn’t spell adventure? Whether you are visiting friends, heading out to the country for walkies or taking your pup into the office to stoke a little colleague jealousy, the train is a fast way to get there. Here are eight things to keep in mind to make sure your journey stays on the right track.

1. Start small

If it’s Fido’s first time on the train, try to take a short off-peak journey in preparation. It will give you a chance to see how your dog reacts to an unfamiliar way of travelling, without oodles of commuters buzzing around his paws with their briefcases.

2. Give them medication for any travel sickness

Around one in six dogs suffer from travel sickness. That ratio is far higher in dogs younger than three. And while sickness is more commonly associated with car journeys, the clackety-clack of the railway track could leave your pup feeling worse for wear if they are prone to nausea while on the move. The good news is that simple medication is available that will leave your dog cool, calm and comfortable while travelling – without pesky side-effects like drowsiness. Speak to our experienced team to find out more.

3. Factor in railway respite

Depending on your route and itinerary, scheduling breaks in your journey may not be practical. But if you can, factor in some railway respite on steady ground to give your furry friend a chance to stretch their legs and – ahem – answer any calls of nature. Speaking of which, make sure they have plenty of opportunity to perform the unmentionables before your journey.

4. Plan the d-word delicately

Dinner, of course. You should aim to avoid making your barking buddy travel on a full stomach. That’s enough to make any dog feel uncomfortable in the tummy region, whether they are prone to travel sickness or not. You don’t want to make a dog’s dinner of your journey now, do you?

5. Make sure your dog is tuckered our first

An excitable doggy might be fun at home, but we guarantee that won’t be the case on the train. Not for you, not for your fellow passengers. If your pup is being particularly rambunctious, you may even be asked to depart the train at the next stop. For a peaceful pooch, try to tire them out before your journey with a long walk or a run around the park.

6. Pack a doggy bag

While it would be convenient if your dog could trot off to the buffet carriage to order themselves a treat – as well as a cuppa for you – the reality is that dogs are banned from the restaurant carriage. So, it’s down to you to provide a couple of light snacks for longer journeys. Pack a bowl and some water too. And it’s worth considering a toy to keep your pup occupied – a non-squeaky one, for everyone’s sanity – as well as a familiar blanket from home. Dogs aren’t allowed on seats (unless you want to pay), so they will have to lie faithfully at your feet. Consider a pheromone spray on your dogs blanet to help keep them calm.

7. Don’t forget their lead

Curious canines would no doubt love the freedom to say hello to other animals and fellow passengers in their carriage. Unfortunately, that’s a non-starter. Dogs must either be kept on a lead – at all times – or carried in a basket/crate no bigger than 85/60/60cm. Those are the rules.

8. Make sure you know where your stop is

It sounds silly, but sometimes you only realise you are pulling in to your station at the last minute. Cue frantic rush to put your coat on, gather your things and grab your luggage. Add a dog into the mix as well? You might just end up staying on the train a little longer than you planned. Make a mental note of the stop before yours and give yourself plenty of time to get ready.

Over to you…

With a bit of simple prep, taking your dog on the train is a doddle. And remember to talk to your vet if your pup displays any signs of travel sickness. It’s easy to manage with simple medication. Happy travels!

Blog and images supplied by Zoetis.

Written by Gemma Hopkins BVETMED, CERTVC, MRCVS, RCVS.

Category Archives: dogs

Winter News Blog❄

BRRRRRR…It’s Cold Outside!

Allergies, Itching and parasites.

Allergies, Itching and parasites.

Female Cats

Don’t get caught out by Kennel Cough!

My dog just got diagnosed with arthritis – what are my options?

My dog just got diagnosed with arthritis – what are my options?

Microchips With Everything!

Microchips With Everything!

Keyhole Surgery.

Keyhole Surgery.

Pet Paws and Poinsettias.

Pet Paws and Poinsettias.

Pet Paws and Poinsettias.

How can you try to ensure your pet remains the right weight?

Grapes, raisins and sultanas

Making a den for your dog

Making a den for your dog

Ticks & fleas

We hope you have enjoyed reading our Autumn Newsletter 2020, if you have a question on any of the articles mentioned please do not hesitate to contact our friendly team for further advice.

Summer News 2020

Summer News 2020

If you have any concerns about any of the articles mentioned in our Summer News, please contact our friendly team for help and advice.

Traveling With Dogs – 5 Things Your Dog Needs To Be A Good Traveller

Traveling With Dogs – 5 Things Your Dog Needs To Be A Good Traveller

Here’s a quick guide to some of the areas you will need to cover

8 must-dos when taking your dog on the train

8 must-dos when taking your dog on the train

Our Online Shop

Our Reviews