Category Archives: Dogs

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.

 

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

Canine courses

 

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!

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

Canine courses

 

Cats, Dogs, The Pet Professionals

Christmas and pets

Christmas and pets

For most of us, Christmas is a magical season, full of wonder and opportunities to reunite and spend time with those we love the most.

But when it comes to our pets, things can rapidly turn sour if we’re not careful so please do take some precautions!

Read our blog post to learn more about avoiding Christmas accidents and keeping your pets safe and stress-free during this season.

Toxic food and plants

How can something so delicious be harmful to our pets?

When it comes to seasonal delicacies, sharing is not caring. Chocolate, raisins, sultanas, onion, garlic, alcohol, and xylitol, to name a few, can be toxic to our pets, so make sure to keep traditional foods to yourself.

Some seasonal plants, such as holly, ivy, mistletoe, poinsettia and lilies, are also potentially dangerous if ingested, so keep these out of your pets’ reach!

Dangerous decorations

Presents, tinsel, ribbons, baubles, fairy lights, even the Christmas tree itself… The possibilities for mischief are endless during the holiday season!

If your pet’s curiosity is sparking, ensure that they don’t have access to decorated areas, because if inadvertently swallowed, Christmas ornaments can lead to choking, gastrointestinal obstruction or worse, perforation of the bowel.

Altered routines

Pets are creatures of habit and are likely to benefit from having set routines regarding feeding, going out, playing and sleeping.

If the timing of any of these elements is disrupted, it can lead to stress and even behaviour issues that we don’t want to occur.

Try to keep your pets’ routine unchanged even as the holiday season gets more stressful and if any accident happens, avoid scolding them, as this can aggravate the situation.

Pets as presents

Lastly, we’d like to raise awareness of the issues regarding offering pets as a gift to children or friends.

Though a wonderful experience, pet ownership is a long-term commitment of both time and resources and is not a decision that can be taken lightly.

Before you consider adopting a pet for your family or offering one to someone else, make sure you research and are able to sustain this commitment.

Nobody wants to spend the holidays at the vet, so don’t forget to keep a close eye on your pets during this season and ensure that they have a lovely time with the Christmas festivities!

Dogs

Keep medications away from dogs

 

Keep medications away from dogs

If your dog suddenly seems unwell, it can be tempting to give them medicine you have at home, but many of the most common medications humans use are toxic to our furry friends.

These include acetaminophen (Paracetamol), common anti-depressants and sleeping pills, among many others and they can cause gastrointestinal effects (such as vomiting and diarrhoea), neurological effects (such as seizures) or even kidney and liver failure.

This is why human medications should never be given to dogs and should always be out of reach to ensure they aren’t accidentally swallowed.

 

How to prevent dogs from accidentally ingesting medications

Here are some tips on how to keep your dogs safe from accidentally ingesting medications:

  • Always keep both human and veterinary medications in a place where your pets can’t access, such as a closed cabinet or drawer. If your dog is persistent, you might need to lock that cabinet;

 

  • If you drop a pill on the floor, immediately pick it up;

 

  • Don’t leave pills unattended on tables or nightstands;

 

  • Keep human medications separate from pet medications to prevent them from getting mixed up;

 

  • Always keep medications in their original box;

 

  • Pay attention to storage instructions and expiration dates – some medications might need to be stored in the fridge, for example. Don’t give your dog expired medications;

 

  • Don’t let pets have contact with medication patches, such as a nicotine patch;

 

  • Don’t let pets lick skin where a topical medication has just been applied;

 

  • Don’t throw medications in the garbage, especially if you have a curious dog that has a tendency to sniff around the trash.

 

What to do if your dog accidentally ingests medications

If your dog ingests a medication that wasn’t prescribed for them, contact your veterinarian immediately, and let them know what medications your pet has eaten and how much. You can also contact the Animal poison line  (https://www.animalpoisonline.co.uk/).

If your vet isn’t available for any reason, it’s best to take your pet to the nearest emergency vet. Time is of the essence, and the sooner your pet is assessed, the better.

Ultimately, you should never give dogs human or veterinary medications without consulting your veterinarian. Not only are certain human medications toxic to pets, but even for the ones that are safe, administering the correct dosage is essential to prevent problems for your dog or cat.

Even medications meant for pets might only be safe for a specific species. For example, certain flea medications commonly used for dogs are highly toxic to cats. Be sure to follow your vet’s instructions carefully when giving your pet any medication.

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

Canine courses

 

Dogs, The Pet Professionals

Taking your dogs for a swim

Taking your dog with you on outdoor adventures is nothing new! As more beaches, lakes and even pools become pet-friendly, there is a big chance you will be out in places where your dog could go for a swim. 

However, deep water, especially unpredictable water with currents or hidden dangers, is not to be underestimated! Dogs are naturally curious animals and are often not used to being out in these situations, a combination that can spell disaster. 

Keep reading to find out how to ensure your furry friend has the perfect swimming day. 

Can my dog naturally swim? 

While many people think dogs can swim, the truth is, this is quite variable! Many breeds were indeed selected to be peerless swimmers, but this does not guarantee that your dog, (even if from a working water breed such as Labrador Retriever or Poodle), will know how to swim or even if he or she wants to go into the water. 

Nevertheless, you can teach a dog to love swimming and increase his or her confidence in the water. 

It is best to take things slowly and, most importantly, never to force your pets to be in a situation that might cause them distress, such as dragging them into the water or throwing them beyond their depth. 

Another vital part of your dog’s swim journey is a well-fitting life jacket, especially if you are out on a boat and there’s a risk of falling overboard into dangerous currents. This buoyancy aid not only dramatically increases your pet’s confidence and comfort but can also save his or her life in case of an accident. 

If you are unsure how to teach your furry best friend how to swim or are struggling with getting results, consult a professional trainer. 

My dog is used to the water, so can I leave him or her unattended? 

You should avoid leaving your dog unattended around bodies of water, even if your dog is an excellent swimmer outfitted with a lifejacket, or even if he or she is in a place that they are used to going. 

It’s best to err on the side of caution in these cases, as there are many dangers lurking around these areas that can quickly turn the situation sour. Drowning can happen quickly and silently, so always make sure your dogs are not unattended or without a leash. 

If your pet leaves your sight and he or she returns to you listless, with an injury or vomiting, don’t hesitate to call your vet for help. 

What else should I consider when going swimming with my dog? 

Now that you’re all set for the perfect day with your dog, don’t forget to check the water conditions when you arrive. If you’re out on the lake, ensure that there are no blue-green algae blooms and that the water is safe to swim in. Watch out for strong currents or nasty waves when going to the beach. 

Sunburns and heat stroke are also a concern, so make sure your dog has sunscreen on, permanent access to shady, cool areas and plenty of fresh water.  

And, of course, no adventure is complete without a handy first aid kit! Here are some of the best things to carry with you: 

  • Bandages and surgical sticky tape; 
  • Cotton wool and sterile gauze; 
  • Scissors and tweezers; 
  • A comfortable and thick towel; 
  • Thermometer; 

This should cover many of the accidents that can cause injuries, hypothermia or even catching stray ticks.  

Why don’t you check out our video on canine first aid which covers first aid kits in detail.

In addition, remember always to keep your vet’s number and address with you so you can quickly call for help! 

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

Canine courses

 

Dogs, The Pet Professionals

Protect your dog from the sun

As the sunny days of high summer are getting closer, we would like to take some time to talk about the damage the sun can do to our dogs.

Sunburn and skin cancer are just as significant in our pets as in people! Even if you and your dogs aren’t often out on lengthy outdoors adventures, it’s vital to protect them during sunny days, even if just from the light coming in through the windows.

Keep reading to find out more about avoiding sun-related skin problems this summer.

Can dogs get sunburnt?

The answer is absolutely yes! The sun affects our pets’ skin and can cause burns of varying severity. These are quite bothersome and, in some cases, can be extensive enough to need a trip to the vet.

Dogs love to be outside for long periods or nap in sunny places, putting them at risk of getting burnt. It’s important to remember that they won’t necessarily move away from the sun before they are burnt, so you need to make sure that they do.

Red, tender and flaky skin are sure signs that your pet has a burn! Smaller burns can usually be treated at home with the proper ointments, but more extensive or severe burns require appropriate veterinary treatment.

What are the risks of skin cancer in pets?

Not only is the sun responsible for burns and other skin problems, it can also put your pet at risk of developing severe diseases like skin cancer (malignant melanomas, squamous cell carcinomas or mast cell tumours).

While there are many factors involved in the development of skin cancer, we know that UV damage from the sun plays a part, and too much exposure to this harmful radiation will definitely increase the risk of your dog developing cancer.

These types of cancer can be highly damaging and difficult to treat! The sooner they are spotted, the better the chances of treating them successfully, so always keep a keen eye on your dog’s skin.

If you spot areas with colours that weren’t there before (darker, lighter or red coloured skin), or you see bumps and/or ulcers developing for no reason, do not hesitate to contact your vet.

How can I prevent harm from UV rays?

The best way to reduce the risk of sunburns and skin cancers induced by harmful rays is to limit sun exposure and take the proper measures to avoid putting your dogs in a situation where they can’t escape being out in direct sunlight.

Here are some of the main ways to avoid sun damage:

  • Choose the best sunscreen for your dog – There are plenty of sunscreens out there but it’s important to choose one without zinc oxide or aminobenzoic acid as they are toxic if ingested. Consider one that is also waterproof and unscented if your pooch loves a good swim.
  • Protect your dogs while out on walks or hikes – If you’re fond of outdoor adventures, you might also want to consider protective clothing that’s made to be cool enough for a hot day but also protecting from the hot sun. This way you only need to apply sunscreen to the exposed areas.
  • Keep their home safe from overexposure to the sun – Make sure that your dog has the chance to be out of the sun in case he or she wants to, for instance, with shaded spots out in the garden or with permanent access indoors. If you notice that they have been out for too long, call them in before they suffer a burn.

Even with all of these precautions, it’s important that you avoid the hottest hours of the day to be outside. Not only are the UV rays at their most dangerous, but excessive heat can harm their sensitive paws and might cause heatstroke!

 

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

Canine courses

 

Dogs, The Pet Professionals

Socialisation and dogs

Did you know that there are over 3 million new pets in UK homes since the beginning of the Covid pandemic?

If you were one of the new pet owners, you might have struggled with proper socialisation. As we were spending more time at home and observing social distancing to help fight the spread of Coronavirus, some pets might not have had the chance to socialise with others.

However, socialisation is a crucial process in puppies’ development, allowing dogs to gain confidence and become comfortable in unexpected situations and interacting with unfamiliar people and animals.

Socialisation in puppies

Ideally, socialisation should begin between 3 and 14 weeks of age, which is when puppies are most responsive to learning from exposure to new experiences and environments.

If puppies are deprived of contact with other people, animals and new situations during this period, they may be at greater risk of developing behaviour issues, such as being fearful or aggressive, as adults.

However, puppies are not fully vaccinated during these first few weeks so it’s very important to ensure that their contact is limited to healthy dogs with up-to-date vaccines and a good temperament. Also, please avoid areas frequented by dogs of unknown vaccination status, such as public parks and other public spaces.

To get your dog to socialise safely during this period, you can ask your vet if they host puppy parties or arrange puppy play dates with your friends’ pets. These interactions should always be supervised to ensure that your dog has a positive experience.

But socialisation should not be limited to meeting and interacting with other pets! It is essential to offer your puppy an enriching environment that exposes them to different stimuli (noises and textures, for example), toys, and includes lots of playtime.

Another important part of socialisation is getting your dog used to being handled. This will help you (and your veterinarian) in the future if your dog needs topical treatments applied, such as ear medication for example, or when they go in for a vet check-up and need a physical examination.

Socialisation throughout life

As your puppy grows older, it’s important to continue to provide them with socialisation opportunities. Continued exposure to unfamiliar situations in controlled environments allows them to grow a tolerance to different social contexts.

And of course, when your dog is fully vaccinated, you can take them to dog parks, the beach, and organise other fun activities that strengthen your bond with your pet.

 

Remember, socialisation is not only essential for your dog’s well-being, but the whole family’s as well. For instance, it can be very stressful and dangerous to walk a dog that never learnt how to interact appropriately with other dogs.

And be mindful that if your dog is too fearful or aggressive, you should always seek help from a qualified professional.

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

Canine courses

 

Dogs, The Pet Professionals

Healthy skin during spring

With the end of winter fast approaching, this is the perfect opportunity to plan some fun outdoor activities for spring!

Around this time of the year, you’re also likely to see more dog hair around the house as your dogs shed their warm winter coat, so we’ve put together our top three tips to make sure that your dog’s coat and skin are healthy this coming season.

 

#1: Grooming and bathing

Though grooming is an important step in your dog’s hygiene routine all year round, it becomes particularly important during springtime.

As it removes dead hair from your dog’s coat, grooming also helps prevent skin problems from occurring due to lack of skin aeration and accumulation of dead hair, cells, dirt and even moisture.

A periodic grooming routine will also allow you to detect any skin problems at an early stage, making them easier to treat.

As for bathing, it can also be useful in promoting a healthy coat and skin in dogs. But you might be wondering how often you should give your dog a bath as the weather starts to get warmer.

The truth is, this varies immensely depending on your dog’s type of coat, lifestyle, and even health, as some skin conditions require medicated baths.

If at any moment you’re unsure of what to do, don’t hesitate to seek professional advice, be it from a certified groomer or your vet team.

 

#2: Parasite protection

With the weather getting warmer, parasite activity gradually increases, including external parasites, such as fleas and ticks, but worms and other internal parasites as well.

Though we are (unfortunately) used to dealing with these pesky creatures, it’s important to keep in mind that parasites can have a significant impact on our pets’ overall health.

Mosquitoes can transmit serious diseases such as leishmaniasis and ticks Lyme disease, for example, and other external parasites can cause severe cutaneous problems.

Take flea allergy dermatitis, for example. A single flea bite can lead to a disproportionate skin reaction, in which your dog will be so itchy that they can scratch, nibble and bite until the point of breaking the skin. And this is just with one flea bite!

If you’re not sure that your dog’s parasite treatments are up-to-date, our advice would be to give your vets a ring to check that they are protected.

 

#3: Heath check

For those of you who sneeze uncontrollably and have a stuffy nose for most of the spring, you’re well aware of how uncomfortable and aggravating springtime allergies can be!

But did you know that spring allergens can be as bothersome to your pets as they are to you?

The thing is, instead of having a runny nose and congested upper airways, seasonal allergies usually manifest as itchy skin and skin lesions due to pets scratching and trying to find relief.

If you notice that your dog’s skin looks red (particularly inside their ears), that they seem to be scratching a lot and rubbing their body against different types of surfaces or even people, or if you notice any skin lesions, book an appointment with your vet to figure out why they are so itchy.

 

We hope you have wonderful and safe adventures with your pets this spring!