Category Archives: Dogs

Dogs, The Pet Professionals

Are you considering adopting a dog from abroad?

Adopting a dog from abroad seems to be a rising trend in the UK, with 6% of owners asked by the PDSA in 2022 and 2023 reporting that their pet was imported compared to 4% in 2021 and 3% in August 2020.

If you’ve fallen in love with a dog from overseas and are considering bringing it back into the UK, keep reading to find out some important things that you should be mindful of before making a decision!

 

Can an imported pet have unusual diseases?

There are a range of exotic diseases that we don’t commonly see or have in the UK that can be imported along with your new dog if you don’t test for them beforehand. These include:

Rabies

Rabies is a viral neurological disease that mostly targets a mammal’s brain and nerves (including humans, dogs and cats), leading to a range of symptoms that ultimately lead to death. Though there is no cure for rabies, the disease can be prevented through vaccination.

Brucellosis

Brucellosis is another infectious disease, this time caused by the bacteria Brucella canis. Vets can use antibiotics to try to treat it, but, in most cases, treatment is not effective with dogs often having to be euthanised.

Heartworm

Unlike rabies and brucellosis which can be transmitted from dog to dog (or dog to human!), heartworm is transmitted via mosquito bites. As the name indicates, the disease is characterised by an infection of the heart and lungs by a parasite. The disease is fatal if not treated, and treatment itself poses a number of risks, which is why parasite prevention treatments are key.

Leishmaniasis

This is also a parasitic disease transmitted by sandfly bites. Once infection has been established, there’s no cure for leishmaniasis, but in some animals, the disease can be successfully managed.

Ehrlichiosis

Ehrlichiosis brings us back to bacterial diseases, this one caused by Ehrlichia canis. The disease is also vector-borne, meaning a dog cannot be infected directly, only via a tick bite (the tick being the vector). Diagnosis is often challenging as symptoms are not specific, and, since there is no ehrlichiosis in the UK, vets will only suspect the disease if they are aware that a dog has been living out of the country.

Babesiosis

Babesiosis is another tick-borne parasite disease. It mostly affects young and middle-aged dogs and treatment can be challenging, with its effectiveness dictated by the severity of the disease. Again, prevention via tick control is the best way of dealing (or not dealing, in this case!) with these types of infections.

It’s important to be mindful that rabies, brucellosis, leishmaniasis and babesiosis are transmissible to humans as well, some directly from dog to human, others indirectly, requiring a vector (i.e. the dog could infect a tick, for instance, which could then bite and infect a human).

As these diseases may cause severe symptoms in dogs, with some not being treatable at all, combined with their potential for zoonotic infections (i.e. spreading to humans), it’s very important that we try to keep them out of the UK by testing dogs before bringing them to the UK from abroad.

 

Will an overseas pet have health or behaviour problems?

The rise in demand for imported puppies and dogs has led to people turning a blind eye to the welfare conditions those pets experience in their early months.

Though legislation keeps tightening in the UK regarding selling and adopting pets, such as Lucy’s Law and Reggie’s Law, the same is not true in other countries, which may be purposefully breeding dogs in low welfare conditions specifically to supply to the UK.

When this is the case, once with their new families, imported dogs often show behavioural issues and even severe health problems that may lead to a regrettable premature loss of a beloved family member.

Also, according to the PDSA’s 2023 PAW Report, a number of people are seeking imported pets due to physical traits such as docked tails and cropped ears. Both of these practices are illegal in the UK as they pose welfare and health risks to affected animals, and finding a way around the law to acquire such pets is something that should be avoided.

If you’re considering adopting or buying a dog from abroad, we hope this blog post has helped you ponder this decision and do remember to ask your vet which tests are needed before you bring a new pet into your family!

Would you like to know more about dogs? Check our Canine Courses:

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Dogs, The Pet Professionals

Is my dog struggling with osteoarthritis?

Osteoarthritis is a common problem for dogs, particularly elderly pets. This disease happens due to progressive inflammatory destruction of the cartilage in the joints, leading to worsening mobility and pain.

Unfortunately, this condition does not have a cure in most cases, but there are many ways to slow down the progression of cartilage destruction and manage pain successfully.

If you’ve noticed that your furry friend has been slowing down on walks and is more reluctant to move around, this blog post is for you! Keep reading to know all about osteoarthritis and how to help your pet enjoy its twilight years without pain.

What is osteoarthritis?

Osteoarthritis is also called degenerative joint disease (DJD), and, as we’ve mentioned, it is caused by persistent joint inflammation resulting from damaged cartilage, a protective tissue that is vital for proper joint movement.

As this is progressively destroyed, the bones lose their capacity to move correctly. This situation also causes significant and increasing pain, and you may start to notice your pet being more reluctant to get up from their bed, walk or play. This discomfort can also show up as increased aggressiveness, less patience and house-soiling.

Any dog can suffer from osteoarthritis at any point in his or her life, but some animals are more predisposed to DJD. The most important risk factors include:

  • Age as older dogs are more likely to have cartilage damage;
  • Larger breeds;
  • Injuries or repeated activities (such as sports) as these create a lot of repeated stress on the joints;
  • Overweight;
  • Joints with bad conformation (for instance, hip dysplasia).

While no definitive cure exists for this disease, your furry friend can still enjoy a long time of comfort and activity with the proper treatments. These aim to slow down the progression and manage pain, allowing him or her to have many more great days to share with you.

 

Can I help my dog feel better?

One of the most essential things any owner can do is keep an eye out for progressing signs of osteoarthritis, especially during this time of the year when cold and damp days can worsen joint function.

While every pet is different, medical management is vital in these cases, as pain and mobility loss will continue progressing. Often, these medications will have to be adjusted as time passes and other symptoms appear.

Your vet will also likely suggest physical therapy to help reduce discomfort and improve limb strength. This might include hydrotherapy, acupuncture, laser therapy or other complementary treatment modalities that help medication and lifestyle changes be more effective.

Modifying routines, for instance, with shorter walks, and changing how your dog can get around your home, for example, with more comfortable bedding and mobility aids, can also be extremely helpful.

If you spot any concerning changes, don’t hesitate to contact your vet! They will carry out a thorough investigation and suggest the best treatments to address any difficulties your pet is having.

 

Don’t forget:

  • Osteoarthritis most often cannot be cured, but it can usually be successfully managed;
  • If you spot any changes in behaviour such as less patience, reluctance to move or get up, increased vocalisations and house soiling, they might be due to pain or significant discomfort;
  • Medication and treatments like hydrotherapy or laser therapy can help manage symptoms when they come up;
  • In case you see any worrying concerns, speak to your vet, and they will be able to help you decide on the best course of action.

Would you like to know more about dogs? Check our Canine Courses:

Canine courses

 

Dogs, The Pet Professionals

Could my dog be suffering from an ear infection?

Have you noticed your dog shaking their head more than usual and constantly scratching their ears? This often means that they have an ear infection and need to be seen by a vet.

Keep reading to find out more about ear infections and what you can do to prevent them.

 

What is an ear infection?

Ear infections are common in dogs, especially those who suffer from other skin problems, such as allergies, and those with long, floppy ears like Cocker Spaniels.

There are a number of microorganisms that live in the healthy ear and that are harmless to our pets. However, if something happens that changes the normal ear environment, this balance can be disturbed, and the bacteria and yeast that live in the ear canal can multiply and cause an infection.

Irritation, itchiness, and the trauma from scratching can all lead to infection, which is why it’s so important to recognise signs of ear problems early on.

 

What are the signs of ear problems?

Excessive scratching, which includes head rubbing on furniture or other surfaces and pawing at the ears, is usually one of the first signs of an ear problem. Other signs include:

  • Red, swollen ears
  • Ear discharge – purulent or tarry
  • Smelly ears
  • Head shaking
  • Pain and discomfort

If your pet’s ears are painful, this is likely to affect their behaviour. You may find that they seem more withdrawn and avoid being petted on the head. Your dog can even become aggressive to avoid contact, so be careful when handling their sensitive ears.

If ear itchiness has been going on for a while, you may also notice outer lesions, such as bald patches and crusty areas around the base of the ear.

Another sign of chronic ear problems is a head tilt. If you see that your dog’s head is tilted, this can mean that the ear infection has progressed to the inner ear, which can lead to serious conditions such as meningitis and vestibular disease.

 

What to do if I spot these signs?

It’s very important to seek veterinary help if you suspect that your dog has an ear problem or recognise any of these signs.

Usually, the earlier ear infections are diagnosed, the easier they are to treat, and chronic complications are less likely to develop.

Ear treatment needs to be prescribed by your vet and usually involves a combination of ear cleaning and medicated ear drops. Additional oral medication may be necessary for dogs with complicated infections or even surgical solutions for chronic cases.

If your dog is in pain, it can be challenging to handle their ears as they can run and hide or even try to bite you. Proceed with caution, gently and do not rush, and if you are struggling, ask your vet team for help.

 

What can I do to prevent ear infections?

Diagnosing and treating skin problems

As we have mentioned, ear infections usually develop as a consequence of irritation, itchiness, inflammation, or trauma. This means that there is an underlying problem that needs to be addressed.

Anything that causes itchy skin, from fleas to allergic disease, can lead to an ear infection, so one of the first steps to prevent this is to find out what could be behind this problem.

Once your dog has been diagnosed, if their condition is well-managed, ear infections are likely to be under control as well.

Periodic checks

Having a look at your dog’s ears regularly can help catch inflammation and irritation before they progress to infection.

If your dog has long ears that cover the entrance of the ear canal, like the Basset Hound, we’d recommend checking them more frequently. This type of ear shape makes them more prone to develop infections, as the temperature and humidity conditions of their ears are ideal for bacterial and yeast proliferation.

We’d recommend the same for dogs diagnosed with a chronic skin condition, such as allergies, as they’re also more likely to have ear infections.

Hygiene and cleaning

As a dog owner, you may wonder how often you should bathe your dog and clean their ears. The truth is the answer to this question is highly variable.

It is important to be mindful of your pet’s general hygiene condition. If you go out on a walk and they’re covered in mud, a bath is due. If you notice that their coat feels oily and that they don’t smell great, those are good reasons for a bath as well. The point is: bathe your dog only if they need it, but be mindful of not letting water or shampoo get into their ears.

The same is true for their ears. If you find excess wax or a strong odour, it’s advisable to clean them with a good quality ear-cleaning solution. Otherwise, the ear has its own cleaning mechanisms in place, and over-cleaning can cause irritation. Your vet can help you decide if and how often your dog’s ears need to be cleaned.

 

We hope you find this article helpful! Don’t hesitate to reach out to your vet if you suspect an ear infection or if you have any questions regarding your dog’s ear care.

Dogs, The Pet Professionals

Separation anxiety in dogs

Back-to-school blues are not just for people! Did you know that dogs can also feel sad when their owners are no longer in the house?

While many dogs might feel a bit gloomy about having the house all to themselves, some pets will feel it especially acutely, which can tip into significant separation anxiety. Dogs suffering from this might exhibit unwanted behaviours due to distress, which can be challenging to resolve.

Keep reading to know all about separation anxiety and what you can do to help your dog through this difficult time.

What is separation anxiety in dogs?

This common behavioural problem happens when your dog experiences significant anxiety when he or she realises you are about to be separated, for instance, when you or your family leave for work or school.

While many furry friends experience some form of displeasure at seeing you leave, what makes separation anxiety different is the intensity of these feelings of stress.

For pets that are sensitive to anxiety, it can be quite intense and cause a lot of distress, leading to unwanted behaviours when this is triggered. You might start seeing:

  • Excessive barking or howling;
  • Incessant pacing or trembling;
  • Drooling and panting;
  • Toileting in the house;
  • Destructive behaviour such as chewing on furniture or other non-toy objects;
  • Attempting to escape the house to try and find you!

If not handled properly, these behaviours can escalate into intense stress that causes a serious dip in his or her quality of life as well as self-harm, for instance, broken teeth or paw injuries.

What can I do to help?

Like many other behavioural issues, it’s vital that you are very patient with your dog and that you know that it might take some time to help him or her feel more at ease with your absences. While it may be difficult to handle, particularly if your dog suffers from severe separation anxiety, do not yell or punish them for the way they are acting.

For mild cases, you might have a lot of success by keeping routines as stable as possible all year, not making a fuss as you are leaving the house, tiring out your furry friend before leaving, finding nice toys that will entertain him or her during the time you are out so he or she won’t miss you as much. You will have to be consistent with this and patient, but with time and care, your dog will probably feel much better!

For owners that are struggling with a severe case and whose dog is at risk of self-harm or extreme distress, it’s best to consult their vet and probably be referred to a clinical animal behaviourist to help him or her overcome this type of stress.

 

In summary:

  • Some pets might be suffering from a high level of stress when they think you are about to leave;
  • Separation anxiety can manifest as excessive barking, destructive behaviours, attempting to flee or even self-harm!
  • To help your pet, you can try to modify your leaving routines and ensure he or she has enough toys and entertainment to spend the day alone;
  • For tough cases or if you’re feeling overwhelmed, don’t hesitate to contact your vet.

Would you like to know more about dogs? Check our Canine Courses:

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Dogs, The Pet Professionals

Ringworm in dogs

How much do you know about ringworm in dogs? This infectious skin disease is also called dermatophytosis, and it isn’t actually caused by a worm but by a fungus that our pets can easily pick up and bring home!

While it is not often a life-threatening problem, in some circumstances, it can be challenging to get rid of due to high rates of environmental reinfection or if the treatment protocol isn’t correctly applied. It can also go on to infect humans, especially family members with reduced immunity, such as older people, those suffering from chronic illnesses or pregnant women.

Keep reading to find out more about dermatophytosis and how to avoid this nasty problem in your dogs!

Is it easy for my dog to get ringworm?

Dermatophytes are a group of fungi species that grow on the skin, nails and hair of pets and humans. They can resist in the environment for a long time in the form of spores, waiting for someone susceptible to pick them up.

Your dog can get infected by contacting these spores or the fungus directly, such as from another infected animal or by touching contaminated objects like bowls or bedding. The good news is that not every time he or she runs into ringworm will result in an infection, as these fungi often need broken skin (from a wound or after clipping hair, for instance), lowered immunity (like elderly, very young or sick pets) or a high contamination.

When infection occurs, you might spot the following signs:

  • Several circular areas of hair loss that might get bigger over time:
  • Rough or brittle nails;
  • You might also see scabs, reddened skin or other signs of infection in the hairless patches.

If you see any of these, contact your vet, as ringworm is readily transmissible to other pets and people! This is particularly relevant if you have young children, elderly family members or someone suffering from an illness that impacts their immunity in your house.

I think my dog might be at risk, what can I do?

Pets who are the most at risk include young dogs, pets who are sick or under significant stress or those who have come from overcrowded homes.

While ringworm can go away on its own, it might take a long time, and your dog or your family will be at serious risk of infection or reinfection as this fungus can remain active in the environment for up to 18 months.

The best way to avoid problems is to keep an eye on your dog’s hair, skin and nails and contact your vet if you see any of the above-mentioned signs. They will take all the appropriate samples make a diagnosis of fungal infection and prescribe the correct treatment.

Is ringworm treatable?

Most of the time, ringworm will not be complicated to treat, but it’s vital that you follow your vet’s exact recommendations and do not stop treatment halfway unless you’ve explicitly been told to do so!

There are several effective treatment options, including oral treatments that are often combined with topical anti-fungal formulations like shampoos or ointments. Depending on your dog’s case, your vet will prescribe the best medication to handle the infection as quickly as possible.

During this time, it’s also essential that you restrict your infected pets to the least number of rooms possible to avoid cross-contamination and make sure that you clean everything thoroughly.

In case you suspect you or a family member might have ringworm due to a recent infection in one of your pets, contact your GP without delay!

Would you like to know more about dogs? Check our Canine Courses:

Canine courses

 

Cats, Dogs, The Pet Professionals

Summer safety – Common hazards for pets

Summer is here, and it usually means it is time to take a break, relax and enjoy the weather!

If you often include your pets in your summer plans, keep reading our blog to make sure that they are kept safe and protected against common hazards.

 

Heatstroke

Heatstroke had to be first on our list as it is not as uncommon as one would wish and can be fatal in a matter of minutes.

Heatstroke happens due to our pets’ inability to deal with excessive heat.

When the temperature rises, dogs dissipate heat mainly through panting, and this is often not enough to help them cool down. This is why it is so important not to expose them to hot temperatures for too long, as they will not physically be able to cool down effectively. And when we say hot temperatures, 20ºC may be enough, depending on other factors and conditions!

Common signs of heatstroke include:

  • Excessive panting and difficulty breathing
  • Excessive salivation and vomiting
  • Looking lethargic or collapsing

If you recognise any of these, contact your vets immediately, as your pet will need medical assistance. Make sure to move them to a shaded, cool area, pour water over them to help bring their temperature down, use towels soaked in cold water and follow any other instructions that your vet might give you.

This means that preventing heatstroke is key, especially during summer. Here are some ways you can do it:

  • Do not leave your pets unattended in hot, poorly aired spaces, such as parked cars and conservatories
  • Throughout the day, make sure that your pets have access to and are drinking water
  • Avoid taking your pets out during the hottest hours of the day
  • Be mindful of pets who are more prone to suffer from heatstroke, such as flat-faced breeds, thick-coated pets, and those who suffer from medical conditions

When in doubt, it is always best to be safe than sorry, so do not hesitate to ask for help, even if it is just for reassurance.

 

Insect stings and parasites

Are your pet’s parasite treatments up-to-date? Now is the perfect time to check!

Parasite activity spikes with the warm weather, so making sure your pets are protected can avoid a number of health issues!

Diarrhoea and other gastrointestinal problems are frequently associated with intestinal parasites, especially in young animals. As for external parasites, such as fleas and ticks, these can lead to a range of skin conditions or even transmit serious diseases that can be life-threatening to your pets.

When it comes to canine products, some spot-on formulations have an insect-repellent component that can help prevent mosquito bites.

This becomes particularly important if you are travelling abroad as mosquitos are known to transmit heart worms, and sandflies leishmaniasis, diseases that we do not usually see in the UK, both of which can make your pet very ill. For more information about taking your pets abroad on holiday, read this blog.

Bee and wasp stings can also be problematic, especially for curious, playful pets. These can lead to localised allergic reactions with painful swelling and potentially breathing difficulties if the nose and mouth are affected. Keep your eyes peeled for nests, and if you find them, we recommend keeping your dog on a lead to avoid accidents.

 

Outdoor activities

Outdoor activities are incredibly fun for pets and owners alike!

In one of our latest blogs, we have covered a range of tips for a safe swim, so today, we’ll be focusing on summer walks and barbeques.

 

Summer walks

As we have mentioned above, we always need to be mindful of heatstroke when planning a summer walk with our dogs and make sure that we avoid the hottest time of the day. Before dusk or after dawn are ideal times for dog walking, both for heat comfort and reduced UV exposure.

As in people, excessive sun radiation can lead to sunburn in pets, especially those of a light colour and fair hair. Consider applying pet-safe sunscreen to sensitive areas before heading out to avoid these problems.

If you are planning a walk in the countryside, to enjoy a beautiful rural landscape, be mindful of resident sheep. Sheep worrying can be a very serious issue so if you are unsure keep your dog on a lead whilst sheep are nearby.

But if you would rather head out to heathlands, moorlands, or even sea cliffs, we recommend keeping your eyes peeled for adders. Though adders are not aggressive by nature, they may bite if they feel threatened, which may happen if your pet happens to walk too close to them. As adders are venomous, veterinary assistance should be sought immediately, so make sure you have the contact of the nearest vet at hand, just in case.

 

 

BBQs

How better to end a summer evening than with a lovely gathering of family and friends by the grill?

We know you do not want your pets to feel left out; after all, they are part of the family too!

But if you wish to include them, our number one advice would be not to share your food. Make sure you have appropriate treats that they can eat safely, as our food is often too fatty for our pets and can lead to gastrointestinal problems.

However, just because we know better, it does not mean that they do too. If your pet is a known food thief, make sure that they do not have access to unattended food or the rubbish bin. These foods can be very harmful if inadvertently ingested, as fruit stones can lead to choking and meat skewers may cause bowel perforations. Make sure that left over corn on the cobs are not accessible as these can cause serious bowel obstructions if eaten. You can never be too careful!

 

Now that you have all this information available, we hope that you can relax and enjoy a safe summer with your pets!

If you have any concerns, do not delay in seeking professional help.

Dogs

Do you take your dogs swimming? All you need to know for a safe swim

Summer is just around the corner! The time for those perfect days spent outside is almost here, but are you ready to tackle everything that the good weather has to offer?

Taking your dogs out with you to places with tempting water, like the river, beach, lake, or even a small pond, is a popular pet outing, but it’s essential to be adequately prepared. Even the strongest doggy swimmers can suddenly find themselves in trouble!

Keep reading to find out how to make these summer days safe and relaxed.

Does your dog like to swim?

Swimming is an excellent exercise for dogs as it is an exciting low-impact option that mentally and physically stimulates your pooch.

Some dog breeds are tailor-made for swimming, while others aren’t keen on doing much more than dipping their paws in the shallow water. But even if your furry friend has all the physical characteristics of a great swimmer, they might not like going into the water at all!

Always respect your dog’s comfort levels, and don’t insist on doing things he or she might not want to do, as it can cause a lot of distress.

However, it’s possible to acclimatise your dog to being in the water and even get them to like swimming. The best way to do this is to start slowly with toys and treats and get in the water with him or her. As he or she grows more confident, you can encourage going to a deeper water level but take caution to always support your dog when he or she is starting out and, as you progress, make sure that they won’t drift away.

Do you have any pet-friendly swimming places near you?

Depending on where you live, finding a good place to swim might take some digging! Only some places are safe or legal for your dog to swim in, so do all the proper research before you load up your family in the car.

Regardless of where you take your dogs out for a swim, never leave them unattended and keep them close by or on a waterproof leash so you can act quickly if necessary.

Doggy pools or pet hydrotherapy centres:

If you’re looking for the safest experience possible, a doggy pool or a hydrotherapy centre for pets can be your best bet.

These places have specially designed pools that are easy for dogs to use and have appropriately trained staff to help you and your dog make the most out of this experience. To access these, you have to pay a fee, and you’re likely required to book a slot ahead of time so everything can be ready for when you arrive.

Lakes or ponds:

Lakes, ponds and slow-running rivers can be great swimming experiences for your dogs as the water is often less dangerous and has fewer chances of hidden debris.

Nevertheless, always check the location and weather before letting your dog jump in and keep an eye out for any warning signage at the site, such as blue-green algae blooms or dangerous currents.

If these places have a designated swimming area, stay on them to avoid disturbing other people or the local biodiversity.

Open sea:

Going to a pet-friendly beach can be one of the most fantastic summer adventures that we can have with our dogs but don’t forget that the sea or the ocean can be unpredictable!

Strong currents, large waves, hidden rocks and people with boats or jet skis can turn a great day into a rush to the vet, so do think about safety before letting your dogs go into the water. As the water conditions can change quickly, always pay close attention to what is happening around you.

Make sure safety is a priority

Swimming is a great exercise, but it’s easy for accidents to happen if you are not prepared. Knowing what might go wrong and preparing ahead are the best ways to ensure everyone has a great time.

Here are some of the most important things to keep in mind:

  • Drowning can happen quickly and silently, so keep your dogs under close watch no matter what and consider fitting them with a life vest; 
  • If your dog falls into a dangerous current, do not jump in after him or her, as this might put both you and your dog in danger. Instead, call 999 and get the proper help. 
  • Have a fully stocked first-aid kit and the contact details of your regular vet or the vet closest to where you are.
Cats, Dogs

Prepare for the summer holidays with your pets

Whether you have plans to travel with your pets this summer or you are planning on going somewhere without them, it’s best to start preparing now!

Arranging the needed documents, finding pet-friendly places to stay or trying to get a reputable boarding kennel or a pet sitter so that you can be away without any concerns can take a lot of time and energy.

Keep reading to get to know everything that you will need to do before your holidays.

Taking your pet with you on vacations abroad

Imagine being able to share every second of your awesome vacations aboard with your furry best friend. More and more owners are choosing to take their pets with them not just on their domestic vacations but also on trips to foreign countries.

However, this can be a long process! Brexit introduced many new rules and requirements for pets going abroad, including health certificates and vaccines that must be done at least several weeks in advance.

Travelling to the European Union or Northern Ireland:

The requirements are:

  • Your pet must be microchipped;
  • Your pet must have a valid rabies vaccination, and this only counts as valid 21 days after the vaccine if he or she is being vaccinated for the first time;
  • An animal health certificate that an official veterinarian has approved, and this certificate is valid for 10 days for entry into your destination country in the EU or Northern Ireland;
  • If you have a dog and are travelling to Finland, Ireland, Malta, Northern Ireland or Norway, you will also need a tapeworm treatment.

If this seems too complicated, don’t worry! Your vet can help you every step of the way and answer any questions that you might have.

Travelling elsewhere in the world:

For travel to any non-EU countries, you will need to get an export health certificate for the country or countries that you are planning to visit.

This is a more involved process than travelling to the EU, so it’s probably best to talk to your vet well in advance of your visit so that they can ensure that you have all of the required paperwork and certificates that you need for your trip.

Finding the perfect boarding kennel or pet sitter

Travelling with pets is not for everyone, and when you’re going on a lovely, well-deserved holiday, you want to make sure that your pets will be in the best care possible while you are away from home.

Choosing whether your pet will spend some time at a boarding kennel, day-care centre, or with a pet sitter is usually down to your pet’s needs and preferences.

Day-cares and pet sitters generally allow for more individualised attention, so if your furry friend prefers to be alone or have his or her routines altered as little as possible, this might be the option for both you and your pet.

Choosing the right provider, however, will usually require researching and booking well in advance. The best pet services are often fully booked for the summer season, so this is definitely not something that you want to do at the last minute!

Keep in mind that a reputable kennel or sitter will:

  • Be appropriately licensed as well as insured, and will be glad to show you proof of this;
  • Be happy to answer any questions about their premises, qualifications such as pet first aid training and what they can accommodate, which is especially important if your pet has special health needs;
  • Be clear about how they will contact you in case of an emergency plus take your pet’s insurance and vet details;
  • Have independent reviews online and referrals from other people.

One of the best places to start your search is with your vet, as they are likely to know local places or people who can be trusted to give your pets a nice holiday as well.

 

If you’re going on vacations with or without your pets, don’t forget to make all the necessary arrangements well ahead of time! This will save you a lot of headaches, having to solve difficult issues and stressing over whether your pet will be taken care of properly.

Dogs, The Pet Professionals

Senior Dog Care

Did you know your dog’s healthcare and other needs will change as he or she ages? A senior pet might need some changes around the house, specific food or even more frequent veterinary care.

All of these are part of the natural process of growing old, and meeting these needs is very important for their quality of life.

Make sure you have everything that you need to tackle your dog’s golden years and learn all about this amazing life stage.

Health and veterinary care

When people get older, going to the doctor becomes more frequent because there are a lot of health issues that are more common in older people.

The same is true for our dogs, as issues like osteoarthritis, heart disease or cancer become more of a concern as the years go by. Fortunately, most of these problems can be managed to keep your furry friend comfortable and improve their quality of life.

Early detection is vital, which is why your vet is likely to recommend specific tests during your dog’s senior years or ask you to come in to the practice with your pet twice a year instead of just once.

Receiving a diagnosis that something is wrong is understandably distressing, especially for severe diseases like kidney and heart disease, diabetes or even cancer. At first, trying to figure out how you’ll manage this can be overwhelming, but your vet can help you find the best treatment options and support you during this trying time.

Changes in their lifestyle

Even perfectly healthy senior dogs have different needs than younger dogs. In particular, regarding their meals, exercise needs or socialisation.

We consider dogs to be seniors at around age 7, a little earlier for large or giant breeds and a little later for smaller breeds. When your dogs hit this stage of their lives, some changes inevitably happen, such as potentially losing some of their capacity to see, hear or smell, and their joints might be suffering from wear and tear.

With these things in mind, you should keep an eye out for problems like eating less or struggling to move. Behavioural changes are also a concern now, as you might find your dog is more easily startled, anxious or even more aggressive.

Loss of senses like eyesight, hearing or even cognitive abilities is very distressing and might make him or her change their behaviour. Pain and discomfort can also play a huge part in this, as these pets often don’t wish to be touched or bothered as often due to these factors.

Some things you can try include:

  • Changing to food that’s specifically made for seniors and finding the things your pet loves the most for them to eat, as loss of smell can make ingesting enough calories and nutrients difficult;
  • Modifying their exercise routines, for instance, with shorter walks or with more time to rest and consider introducing more lower-impact play with toys to keep them moving but not in a way that causes discomfort;
  • If you notice that they can’t see or hear you very well, approach them gently and give them plenty of time to realise that you are there so you won’t startle them;
  • Talking to your vet about your concerns to determine if a disease might be causing these signs and to help you manage your dog’s pain.

As your dog’s needs evolve, it’s best to keep a keen eye on how things are going and adjust your home and routines to meet these new needs.

 

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Dogs, The Pet Professionals

Can dogs have allergies?

Have you ever considered that your dog might be suffering from allergies? If you’ve ever noticed he or she starts scratching and itching more at certain times of the year, it could be due to a sensitivity to certain things such as pollens or flea bites. In this case, it’s essential to seek medical help as this can be a very distressing situation.

Read our blog post to better understand allergies and how you can help your furry friend feel better.

What are allergies?

An allergic reaction is an exaggerated immune response to something that is harmless, such as pollens, certain foods, medications or insect saliva.

Dogs have many types of allergies, but the most common ones are food allergies, flea allergy dermatitis and atopic dermatitis, which is caused by airborne allergens.

These often show up as skin problems. For instance, red, itchy skin that doesn’t seem to go away and is causing a lot of distress to your furry friend might be due to an allergic problem.

As many owners know, diagnosing and treating these issues can be complicated. Vets might not be able to pinpoint precisely what your pet is allergic to, but there are many tests they can do to narrow it down and then formulate the proper treatment to manage the signs successfully.

Is it possible for my dog to have allergies in the spring?

Many people suffer from the dreaded hay fever, a sensitivity to the many pollens that are floating around during spring, and it can make this season quite tricky. Our dogs can also suffer from this, but, as we have mentioned, it will most likely show itself as an itchy skin rather than sneezing or runny eyes.

Another common allergy that might flare up during the warmer weather is flea allergy dermatitis, as fleas are much more abundant in the spring and summer. For susceptible animals, even just one bite is enough to trigger intense itching and discomfort.

To help make sure that your dog is not exposed to potential allergens, it’s vital that you keep his or her flea treatment up to date, especially as the weather improves!

Can allergies be dangerous?

Unfortunately, some allergic reactions can be severe and even lethal if not treated promptly.

Dogs can have what is called an anaphylactic reaction, which is a very severe, acute response to an allergen. Although it is rare, it most often occurs following a bee or wasp sting, or when your pet is given a new vaccine or medication.

It generally happens minutes after exposure, and you may spot:

  • Sudden vomiting and diarrhoea;
  • Excessive drooling;
  • Hives and swelling of the face;
  • Difficulty breathing due to swelling of the throat or mouth.

This is an emergency situation! If you notice these signs, do not delay and call your vet immediately so they can assess your pet and ensure that he or she is properly treated.

In summary:

  • Dogs can have spring allergies, and they will most likely reveal themselves as an itchy skin;
  • Diagnosing and treating allergies can be challenging, but your vet can help you find the best solutions;
  • Whilst rare, anaphylactic reactions are generally life-threatening, and you need to call your vet if you think that your dog may be having one!

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