Category Archives: dogs

What are ticks and do they infest cats.

Ticks Can Transmit

Ticks Can Transmit

 

Ticks Can Transmit 

Lyme Disease, a serious infection to both human and canines. Our Spring Newsletter has arrived and its crammed with advice on how to keep your pet happy and healthy this Spring 2020. The warmer weather is welcomed by most, but with it brings a host of parasites. Whilst fleas can be irritating, Ticks cause a much greater danger to both pets and their humans. Our Spring News explains the life cycle, the diseases they can potentially transmit and how to protect your pet.

 

What are ticks and do they infest cats.

 

Kennel Cough,

is a very infectious, but rarely life-threatening, respiratory infection that spreads from dog to dog wherever they meet. Our Spring Newsletter discusses the signs of kennel cough to watch out for in your dog and how to give your dog the best protection.

 

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

 

keep It Social!

Rabbits, whether kept indoors or outdoors need space to exercise (with toys, tunnels and areas to dig), areas to hide, eat, sleep, stretch out and hop. Our Spring News provides some great advice on how to keep your bunny hoppy and healthy.

 

rabit health care

 

We hope you have enjoyed reading our Spring 2020 Newsletter, if you have any questions on the articles mentioned don’t hesitate to contact our experienced team for further advice.

Motion sickness in dogs

7 Tips For Motorway Travel With Your Dog.

7 Tips For Motorway Travel With Your Dog.

 

  1. The ins (and outs) of preparation…

 

It’s best to avoid disrupting your pup’s normal feeding schedule, so try to set off two or three hours after Fido has feasted. The aim of the game is to allow time for your pooch’s stomach to settle. A car sick passenger is no fun, two legs or four.

If that doesn’t fit your schedule, it’s okay to feed your dog on your journey. But find somewhere to stop and let your pup eat from their normal bowl. Dish out a smaller portion than normal and allow thirty minutes or so before resuming your journey.

Oh and you don’t need reminding to make sure any calls of nature are answered before you get moving, do you?

 

  1. A blanket. In fact, make that two.

 

You want your pooch to be comfy, hey? Besides, a little familiarity goes a long way.

 

 

  1. One or two familiar toys

 

On short journeys dogs get excited. On long journeys dogs get bored. And boredom is one of the biggest causes of misbehaviour. Pack some distraction. One or two of your pup’s favourite chew toys – or a long-lasting, treat-dispensing toy – should keep mind and mouth occupied during the long miles. Word of warning? It’s probably best to leave the squeaky toys at home. After 100 miles it might just begin to grate.

 

  1. A doggy seatbelt or crate

 

Crating your dog can be a divisive issue among owners. But it’s worth remembering that your pup is unlikely to mind. And when it comes to motorway travel with dog in the back, it’s an important safety measure – for both of you. Alternatively you could consider a doggy safety belt. Either way it’s safer than having your pup roaming the backseats while you’re driving at 70mph and trying to concentrate.

 

Symptoms of sickness

 

  1. Time for walkies…

 

You need a break from the road, so does your dog. You need to stretch your legs, so does your dog. You need to answer the call of nature, so does…you get the picture. Do each other a favour and make time for a walk or two during your journey.

But hang on. The hard shoulder is a no-go. And the service station car park isn’t exactly exhilarating. How do you find a walk you will both enjoy, beside the motorway, in a county you’ve never visited? Ah, the wonders of the www.

 

  1. A cup of tea and a bite to eat…

 

When you are driving long distances, you need to keep your batteries charged. Driving on an empty stomach is no fun and not very smart. No matter where you are in the UK, you can find a tasty bite to eat in a pub that will welcome both you and your four-legged companion using either of these websites. The friendliest of pooch-friendly pubs will even offer a bowl of water and some biscuits for weary pups. Perfect.

 

  1. Long journey? Bed down for the night.

 

For really long motorway trips, you might want to schedule a stopover to break up the journey. But before you resign yourself to an uncomfortable night in the car, you should know that there are hundreds of dog-friendly campsites, hotels and really fancy hotels where you can enjoy a far more peaceful night’s rest. Zzz.

 

 

This blog and images have been supplied by petdialog.co.uk If you are planning a long journey with your dog and need any further advice, our experienced team are on the phone to answer any queries that you may have. Contact Us.

 

Festive alert

Young Veterinary Partnership – Winter News

Young Veterinary Partnership – Winter News

 

Young Veterinary Partnership – Winter News

Did you know vaccinations can help to protect your pet against a range of potentially life threatening infectious diseases? Our Winter News explains the vaccinations that we offer for cats, dogs and rabbits and the range of diseases they help to protect your pet from. All of the vaccinations mentioned in the Winter News are included in our Pet Healthcare Clubs, why not join today, and spread the cost of your pets veterinary essentials across affordable monthly payments on a date that suits you?

 

Where to find emergency care?

 

Should I have my pet neutered?

This is a topic we discuss on a regular basis with pet owners, and a decision every pet owner must make. Our Winter News explains the benefits of neutering and the good news is, neutering is a day surgery meaning your pet will be home with you the very same evening. To read about the benefits of neutering, read our Winter News here. 

 

cat scratching

 

Festive Alert

During the festive season, make sure your decorations and wires are out of reach of pets since they make very tempting toys! Hide any edible presents (especially chocolate) until the last minute to help avoid temptation. Our Winter News includes a survival guide to help you and your pet have a happy healthy Winter 2019.

 

dog in xmas jumper

We hope that you have enjoyed reading our Winter Survival Guide – If you have any questions or concerns about your pet, please don’t hesitate to contact our friendly team for further help and advice.

Remember, Remember the 5th of November, is just around the corner.

Remember, Remember the 5th of November.

Remember, Remember the 5th of November.

73% of owners say they have a pet who’s scared of fireworks – (Zylkenepet.co.uk)

Up to 50% of dogs may be affected by fear of fireworks – (adaptil.com)

Cats like routine and a quiet environment, unexpected noises will upset a cat – (feliway.com)

The above statistics show that your pet is not the only one with a fear of fireworks but carry on reading and we will help you care for your pet every step of the way, making it as stress free as possible throughout the fireworks season.

Noise effected dogs

 

 

Every year we receive a number of phone calls and visits from worried owners, who are concerned about their pets reaction to fireworks. Both cats and dogs can suffer from noise related phobias around this time of year, the most important advice is BE PREPARED in advance.

Unfortunately for pets it now seems to be fireworks ‘season’ rather than night. We’ve put together a list of things to be aware of :

  • Make a den for your pet to hide in, if they are worried.

  • Make sure you & your family act normal – pets will pick up on your anxiety.

  • Walk your dog early to ensure it doesn’t get spooked.

  • Check microchip details are kept up to date.

  • Shut all windows & cat flaps.

  • Stock up on some news toys and treats as a distraction.

  • Do not punish your pet, if they are worried.

 

If you have more than one pet, ensure that each of them has their own hiding place and if that is where they prefer to be, don’t force your pets out. Make sure your curtains are closed and turn up the tv or radio a little louder than normal. Be aware that very stressed pets can become aggressive so please take care if your pet is showing signs of anxiety.

 

Fireworks and your pets

 

 

If you have a nervous pet or you know they are anxious around the fireworks period we have a variety of different options available for you.

For more anxious dogs, there is an innovative new product to treat canine noise anxiety. A fast acting gel that can be given at home and tailored to the timing and duration of the noise event. The get can be given at home and can be used as part of an existing canine behaviour modification programme. It is easy to administer from a syringe and ensures the correct dosage for your dog.

The syringes are a Prescription Only Medicine for use in severely affected dogs suffering with anxiety.

nutravet2018..

Nutracalm supplement’s are available at all of our surgeries, for both cats and dogs. It has been specially formulated by vets to naturally calm anxious pets and reduce unwanted or unruly behaviour in dogs and cats. Nutracalm helps reduce stress, calms behaviour, is fast acting and easy for pet owners to administer.

For cats – FELIWAY is a synthetic copy of the feline facial pheromones used by cats to mark their territory as safe and secure. By mimicking the cats natural pheromone, Feliway creates a state of familiarity and security in their environment. This comes as a plug-in or a spray. Feliway should be started 2 weeks before firework season for maximum effect.

Remember, Remember the 5th of November, is just around the corner.

  •  For dogs – ADAPTIL is a product that contains a Dog Appeasing pheromone. It is a copy of a pheromone that a bitch (female dog) releases to comfort her puppies and should help to reassure and calm your dog. It comes as a plug –in, a spray or a collar. Adaptil should be started 2 weeks before firework season for maximim effect.

Zylkene

For both dogs and cats – ZYLKENE is a supplement derived from milk proteins that can help to make your pet feel more relaxed. Zylkene is palatable and easy to give; simply mix with food or give as a treat, just once a day. It is lactose and preservative free. These supplements should be started at least 1-2 days before any fireworks are expected.

As our blog above explains, we have a wide range of products to help your pet through the fireworks season. Please contact our team before the fireworks start and they will be able to discuss the best product to help you and your pet. Don’t forget to download your fireworks soundtrack and start playing it weeks (even months) before fireworks start to help prepare your pet for the noise.

 

 

Our Autumn Newsletter has arrived be the first to read it here.

Feline SOS!

Feline SOS!

Feline SOS! Knowing when your pet needs to be seen as an emergency is an important decision for many pet owners. Our Autumn News will provide you with some great advice on how to spot a feline emergency. Hopefully this is something that will never happen to your pet but it is worth being aware that sometimes there may be no obvious injuries but this doesn’t mean its not an emergency.

 

Lily

 

 

Wasps and bees will be getting slower during the Autumn season and although their stings rarely cause serious issues, they can be very painful. Swellings can appear quickly on paws if your cat has been batting them about, or mouths if they tried to eat them! Autumn Alert, gives you some top tips on the range of pet care challenges that we must be prepared for.

 

 

picture credits wonderfuldiy.com

 

 

So what are the signs of arthritis in my pet?

 

Our Autumn Alert news includes the signs of arthritis to watch out for, the common causes plus it compares a healthy and arthritic joint side by side to help you understand the aches and pains that arthritis can cause. Although this painful condition cannot be cured, most pets will benefit from at least one of the wide range of treatment options we have available. If you have noticed your golden oldie slowing down why not contact us today to discuss how we can help your pet.

 

Picture credits getupandgodog

 

Please get in contact with our friendly team if you would like further information on keeping your pets happy and healthy this Autumn.

 

 

F facebook

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

you tube large

 

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.

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

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.