Woofbrush canine plaque removal
Woofbrush is a dental chew with a difference. Due to its spongy texture, it gets right down to the gum line to remove plaque. All pets deserve proper food, and that’s still true when it comes to dental chews. Because dogs eat their ‘toothbrush and toothpaste’ (their dental chew), it’s important that their chew is […]
Canine Enrichment
Playing with toys is a great way to bond with your dog, however make sure that the play sessions do not get out of hand by becoming too boisterous, or your dog becoming too possessive. When out and about with your dog, take a toy with you to allow for some play and to encourage […]
Exercising your dog
A major benefit of having a dog is the ability to take them on long walks, to the local park to play fetch, or even to participate in sport activities, e.g. agility, flyball, etc. Regular exercise is essential for adult dogs, and is a really good way to spend time with your dog and bond. […]
Canine Diabetes
Diabetes Mellitus in Dogs Diabetes mellitus is a condition that affects the amount of glucose, or sugar, in your dog’s blood. Diabetes occurs when your dog’s body makes too little insulin, stops producing it completely, or has an abnormal response to insulin. When your dog eats, carbohydrates are converted into several types of simple sugars, […]
Harvest Mites
Harvest mites (Neotrombicular autumnalis) are an external parasite that can affect dogs and cats. The name “Harvest Mite” has come about due to the short season that they seem to appear for is usually around, or just after the typical harvest time – i.e. late summer, early autumn. Harvest mites are usually “picked-up” from the environment. […]
Summer Hazards
Despite supposed warmer weather and longer days, summer can be a problematic time for many of our beloved pets. Here we take a look at some of the main causes of concern. HEATSTROKE This is a serious life-threatening condition that can cause damage to your pet’s internal organs. It requires urgent treatment. It is more […]
Microchipping
We all know that dogs love to run and explore, but unfortunately they sometimes lose their orientation or, if scared by something, may run off and get lost. Since April 2016, it is compulsory for all dog owners in England to have their dog microchipped and ensure their dog’s details and owner contact information are […]
Endoparasites (Internal Parasites)
Endoparasites or Internal parasites live, feed and breed inside the pet’s internal organs. They are contracted by ingesting poo and other organisms (including fleas, slugs, snails, mice) and the health problems and disease risk they pose can even be fatal. Roundworm Tapeworm Lungworm Hookworm Whipworm Heartworm If you suspect there is something wrong with your […]
Flea allergy dermatitis (FAD)
A common condition associated with fleas, but not necessarily with an infestation, is flea allergy dermatitis (FAD). This condition occurs when a pet’s immune system reacts to flea saliva during feeding. Itching, inflammation & fur loss can often follow from self-trauma. If left untreated, secondary bacterial or fungal infections can develop. Symptoms Flea allergy dermatitis symptoms […]
Ectoparasites
Ectoparasites or external parasites will fly, jump or crawl onto a pet. The subsequent biting can cause irritation and discomfort and could lead to a major health problem if not treated. Fleas & Flea Larvae Ticks Ear Mites Mange Mites (Sarcoptes & Notoedres) Biting Lice If you suspect there is something wrong with your pet […]
Adders
Adders are the only venomous snake in the UK. They become active in the warmer months, following a winter hibernating. Pets are usually bitten on the legs, head or neck. Adder bites can result in rapid, painful swelling and bruising. You may also be able to identify two small puncture holes in the centre of […]
Lyme Disease
This is an inflammatory disorder, which can become chronic if left untreated. Lyme disease is caused by a bacterium (Borrelia burgdorferi) which the tick carries. Humans can also get the disease if they are bitten by an infected tick. Early symptoms of Lyme Disease in dogs start with recurrent lameness due to inflammation of the […]
Springtime hazards
Springtime normally brings an increased number of cases to the vets. Bright sunny days mean that people and their pets are out and about enjoying the weather. We tend to see more road traffic accidents, cat fights, dog bites, allergic reactions and occasionally cases of heat stroke. However, the warmer weather also highlights problems that […]
Neutering – Spray(Bitch)
Neutering in bitches can take place any time after 6 months of age. The ovaries and uterus are removed by an abdominal incision, this will prevent any further seasons or pregnancy. Bitches have seasons approx.. every 6-7 months and they often have a straw-coloured to bloody discharge for around 2-3 weeks. We prefer to wait […]