The Pet Professionals Blog
Welcome to The Pet Professionals blog. Our aim is to keep pets happy and healthy through informed education of responsible owners who demand the best for their companions.
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Have you ever considered what the hustle and bustle of the holidays feels like for your pets? This is especially important during Christmas, when things at home are usually the most chaotic.
While Christmas might still seem a little time away, knowing how to prepare adequately can help spare your pets a lot of s... Read more >
Published 13 Nov 2024
Did you know that its not just pets in hot cars that can suffer from heatstroke?
According to a recent veterinary report, there has been a fivefold increase in heatstroke cases during June and August of 2022, with pets sadly passing away in one in four of these cases. Is this a result of global warming?
Kee... Read more >
Published 31 Jul 2024
If you are yearning for some outdoor adventures with your dog this summer, our blog post is for you!
Walks in the countryside can be great fun, but it's important to be mindful of grass seeds as these can lead to many problems!
Keep reading to learn more about grass seeds and how to keep your dog away from tr... Read more >
Published 19 Jun 2024
How much do you know about canine heart disease? One of the most common forms of heart disease in dogs is dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM). This means that the heart chambers are enlarged, making it harder for the heart to work properly and send blood to where it needs to be.
As a progressive disease, as soon as you... Read more >
Published 06 May 2024
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 youve fallen in love with a dog from overseas and are considering bringing it back into the UK, keep readi... Read more >
Published 18 Mar 2024
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 t... Read more >
Published 16 Jan 2024
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 infec... Read more >
Published 08 Nov 2023
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... Read more >
Published 07 Sep 2023
How much do you know about ringworm in dogs? This infectious skin disease is also called dermatophytosis, and it isnt 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 ... Read more >
Published 20 Jul 2023
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 i... Read more >
Published 03 Jul 2023
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 i... Read more >
Published 23 May 2023
Whether you have plans to travel with your pets this summer or you are planning on going somewhere without them, its 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 ... Read more >
Published 28 Apr 2023
Did you know your dogs 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 o... Read more >
Published 16 Mar 2023
Have you ever considered that your dog might be suffering from allergies? If youve 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, its essential to seek medical help as this ca... Read more >
Published 01 Feb 2023
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 were not careful so please do take some precautions!
Read our blog post to learn more about avoi... Read more >
Published 13 Dec 2022
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, amon... Read more >
Published 05 Sep 2022
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 underes... Read more >
Published 04 Jul 2022
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 arent often out on lengthy outdoors adventures, its vital to protect th... Read more >
Published 03 Jun 2022
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... Read more >
Published 13 Apr 2022
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, youre also likely to see more dog hair around the house as your dogs shed their warm winter coat, so weve put together our top three tips to make sure that yo... Read more >
Published 09 Mar 2022
Understanding our dog's behaviour can be challenging at times.
While a wagging tail greeting us when we get home is usually easy to interpret, there are subtle signs in canine communication that we may have difficulty reading.
In this article, we will go over some interesting facts on dog behaviour that ca... Read more >
Published 12 Jan 2022
With 2021 coming to an end, we would like to invite you to take a moment to reflect on how important your pets have been in your life this year.
They can really be our lifeline sometimes, providing us with moments of comfort, greeting us with contagious joy and making sure that we are never alone.
We are sure tha... Read more >
Published 28 Dec 2021
Halloween and Bonfire night are behind us, and we are all looking forward to the jolliest season of the year. As November settles in, we'd like to take a little time to remind you of the most common winter hazards that you may face with your dog!
Dogs are especially vulnerable to toxic substances like antifree... Read more >
Published 22 Nov 2021
With the weather getting colder, snuggling comfortably with our pets at home feels like the perfect weekend plan.
But even pets equipped with the best fur coat can feel the cold, so we should ensure that they remain comfortable as winter approaches.
That said, we've put together three tips to help your pets d... Read more >
Published 04 Nov 2021
Dogs are intelligent animals, and mental stimulation is essential for them to lead a happy, and healthy life.
With the kids being back at school and the family spending less time at home, why not invest some time in teaching your dog a new trick?
Learning is a great way to stimulate your dog's cognitive abili... Read more >
Published 20 Sep 2021
As our pets grow older, they go through a significant number of changes. They may not enjoy moving as much, they may lose some sharpness to their senses, and they may suffer from chronic conditions such as kidney disease, osteoarthritis or diabetes.
Keeping an eye out for these changes is very important as our p... Read more >
Published 01 Sep 2021
Summer's here! For most of us, this means that it's time for a break and we can enjoy a few days of relaxing with the family.
If you're planning to stay local this year, this is the perfect opportunity to organise activities that include your four-legged friends.
With this in mind, keep reading our advice to ... Read more >
Published 13 Jul 2021
Has your dog ever growled at you for picking up their favourite toy?
Several situations and even medical conditions can cause a dog to be aggressive. Today, we'll be going over one of them, called resource guarding.
What sort of things may trigger resource guarding?
Some of the most common ... Read more >
Published 07 Jul 2021
Sun, relaxation and plenty of adventures are the biggest draws of the season!
But with all the nice experiences we can enjoy during the warmer weather, there are some concerns that pet owners need to keep in mind.
One of the most important ones is heatstroke and how it can be dangerous, even deadly, to your p... Read more >
Published 14 Jun 2021
Have you noticed that your dog has been gaining weight despite eating the same amount of food, is less energetic, and his or her hair is thinning?
These are common signs of hypothyroidism, an endocrine disease of the thyroid gland that can affect dogs, especially after a certain age.
The thyroid gla... Read more >
Published 04 May 2021
If there's one good thing that came out of this pandemic, it would have to be a strengthened relationship between ourselves and our pets.
Pets have provided us with an unparalleled source of company and support in these challenging times, which we believe to be related to the increased demand for pets that we've... Read more >
Published 26 Mar 2021
Due to the current Coronavirus pandemic and associated government restrictions, our routines seem to be constantly changing. If we are finding this difficult to manage, imagine how confused our pets may be feeling!
Domestic animals rely on stable routines to thrive, which means that disruptions can cause them ... Read more >
Published 05 Feb 2021
We can't help but have high hopes for 2021, and we wish this new year is kinder to us all than 2020!
Whether you are the type of person that likes to take a moment to reflect on the year that has passed and set resolutions and goals for the new one or not, we have a suggestion for you.
This year, why not make... Read more >
Published 05 Jan 2021
Finally, it is the week of Christmas, and we cant help but feel excited! It is true that this is not going to be the Christmas that we wished for, but we hope you still get to enjoy the holidays as best you can, and the warmth that characterises this season.
There are things that do not change, however, which ... Read more >
Published 23 Dec 2020
Recent surveys indicate that the demand for pets during the current Coronavirus pandemic has increased significantly.
Pets are, indeed, a great source of company and comfort during these unprecedented times, and pet ownership is one of the most wonderful experiences life has to offer us!
But as good as it is ... Read more >
Published 07 Dec 2020
November is Pet Diabetes Month!
Diabetes is a metabolic disease that can affect both ourselves and our pets.
The disease is caused by insufficient production of insulin, the hormone responsible for keeping blood sugar (glucose) levels under control, or due to cells becoming resistant to its action.
Accordi... Read more >
Published 20 Nov 2020
Every season has its grace, and autumn has arrived bringing us shorter days, beautiful colours and a longing for cosiness and evenings by the fire.
Bringing some joy to this unprecedented year, autumn celebrations are fast approaching, so this is the perfect opportunity to go over some important pet safety preca... Read more >
Published 08 Oct 2020
Preventive medicine is the best way for us to keep our pets healthy, but, unfortunately, health is not something that we can always predict and control. Accidents can happen, and there are a number of illnesses that cannot be easily avoided, such as cancer and heart disease, for example.
But theres something w... Read more >
Published 28 Sep 2020
The summer sun brings serious summer fun! Our countryside walks are back in full swing, with all due distancing and safety precautions of course, and there is nothing better than taking our doggy friends for a day out near the lake or jog around the forest ponds.
However, before all of this awesome fun can start... Read more >
Published 28 Aug 2020
We are what we eat, and the same is true for our four-legged friends.
We can't stress enough how much a balanced diet is important for your pet's health, so we've prepared a Q&A for you with common questions dog owners have regarding their pet's nutritional needs!
#1: What should I feed my dog?
... Read more >
Published 13 Aug 2020
For most people, when they bring a new pet home, one of the first thoughts that cross their mind is to take him or her to the vet to make sure that they are healthy.
If this is the first time you have owned a pet, even after you've done lots of preparation and research, that first appointment can be overwhelming... Read more >
Published 15 Jul 2020
With the beautiful weather weve been having lately, we feel this is the perfect opportunity to share with you our top three tips to help you enjoy Summer with your four-legged companions.
#1: Keep your pets protected from heatstroke
As usual, prevention always comes first!
Heatstroke occurs when your pet... Read more >
Published 10 Jun 2020
April showers bring not only May flowers, but they also bring a lot of parasite concerns. Warmer weather invites all sorts of creepy crawlies into your garden and straight onto your pets (and family!).
Keeping your dog's flea and worm treatment up to date is essential all year-round, but during Spring, there is ... Read more >
Published 12 May 2020
After COVID-19 was characterised as a pandemic by the World Health Organisation on 11 March, it is now more important than ever that we protect ourselves and help everyone else at the same time.
Basic preventive measures against the virus include:
Washing your hands frequently for at least 20 seconds;
Avoidi... Read more >
Published 23 Mar 2020
There have been several reports from vets across the country of an increase in cases of prolific vomiting in dogs.
As you're aware, there are many diseases that can cause vomiting and other gastrointestinal signs in dogs, including parvovirus enteritis, parasites, intoxications and dietary indiscretions, to name s... Read more >
Published 02 Mar 2020
With 2019 behind us, many of us have probably taken a moment to reflect on what we've accomplished and to set new goals for 2020. Every new year comes with the promise of a fresh start, and if you don't usually include your pets in your resolutions, why not ring the changes and give it a go for 2020?
#1: Protec... Read more >
Published 06 Jan 2020
Owning a pet is a wonderful, gratifying experience but also a big commitment. Once you adopt or buy an animal, you become responsible for their health and well-being, which goes far beyond taking care of their basic needs.
Preventative veterinary care, such as proper nutrition, vaccination and regular worming an... Read more >
Published 19 Dec 2019
Is a dog a good gift idea?
While Christmas is still a little far off, its usually at this time of the year that we start pondering on what the season will look like, how we are going to avoid having our pets steal some treats when no one is looking and also, what gifts to give to everyone!
Some of the classic C... Read more >
Published 12 Nov 2019
Autumn has arrived in earnest and with it comes the fireworks season. As much as we love the festivities, some of our pets might not feel the same way!
Halloween, Diwali, Bonfire night, Christmas and New Year all come at us in quick succession and many of these holidays feature fireworks of some kind, which are ... Read more >
Published 14 Oct 2019
Autumn is one of the most beautiful seasons of the year, with the trees changing colour and the leaves falling, that lovely earthy scent that lingers in the air after rain, and that characteristic early morning and late afternoon chill that starts making its presence, inviting us to stay home snuggled with our pets... Read more >
Published 03 Oct 2019
Now that the holiday fun is over, it's time to get back on track. School is about to start, we are hopefully enthusiastic to get back to work, and it's easy to forget our pets that will be left behind when the children and adults leave the house empty once again.
If you are starting to notice your pet is sleepin... Read more >
Published 29 Aug 2019
Now that the weather is getting warmer, the days longer, and the spring flowers are starting to bloom, we look at our canine friends and can't help the feeling of wanting to go on an outdoor adventure.
However, if you're planning to take your 4-legged friend on a hike or a long walk by the beach, there are some th... Read more >
Published 15 May 2019
Intervertebral discs are tiny, cushion-like structures located between the vertebrae that connect the the vertebrae bones to each other to form the vertebral column, also functioning as a shock absorber and allowing movement of the spine.
Sometimes, these discs can suffer alterations and become herniated which m... Read more >
Published 18 Mar 2019
Being a dog parent is more than a fantastic and rewarding experience, it's also about embracing the responsibility of caring for another life. Even though some things fall beyond our control, we need to make sure our dogs have the best chance to thrive and have a happy, healthy life.
To make sure your dog is prote... Read more >
Published 28 Jan 2019
If you have children, we are sure Santa's letter has been written, posted and already at the North Pole ready for the elves to process, and many of those letters will have the wish for a puppy this Christmas.
You may also be planning to gift a puppy to a friend, as pet ownership is such an amazing and rewarding ... Read more >
Published 21 Dec 2018
With the firework season fast approaching were getting excited about the festivities; however, many dogs are terrified of the zips, whizzes, bangs and other loud noises.
Noise phobia can manifest in different ways, and the signs usually progress over time unless action is taken. But how can you tell if your dog is... Read more >
Published 17 Oct 2018
Training is an activity that can not only be useful in your daily life, but it can also be gratifying for both you and your dogs. By spending quality time together, youll strengthen the bond between you and your dog, keeping your pet mentally stimulated. It will take some time, patience, and lots of treats, but s... Read more >
Published 05 Sep 2018
Taking our pets on holiday is a growing trend, and there is nothing like having your furry buddy with you on adventures abroad!
But did you know that your dog, cat or ferret will need a passport if they are going to travel with you outside of the UK?
Owners are responsible for ensuring that their pets are ful... Read more >
Published 18 Jul 2018
Summer vacations are always fun but can be even better with the company of your furry friend! If you are planning to take your pet with you on holidays check out this list to help you prepare for the upcoming adventure.
1: Plan ahead.
If you want to have a stress-free holiday with your pet then this is the wa... Read more >
Published 24 May 2018
What do you know about Lungworm? This parasitic disease can be found throughout the UK and owners should be aware of the signs as leaving it floating about in your dog's body can have dire consequences.
First off, what causes Lungworm? This disease is caused by a parasite called Angiostrongylus vasorum that is c... Read more >
Published 19 Apr 2018
We wish all our members and pets a very Happy Easter and we hope it is a very joyful time for you all!
But please don't forget:
Chocolate is best out of reach of any pets as it contains theobromine which is toxic, particularly to dogs;
Sweets and cakes with raisins, sultanas, currants like ho... Read more >
Published 22 Mar 2018
We know it's still quite chilly out there at the moment, but that unfortunately does not stop all manner of bugs from gleefully jumping onto your dog!
It's tempting to pay less attention to your pet's external parasite treatment during the Winter months but they are still there, just waiting for a tasty host (an... Read more >
Published 08 Feb 2018
Some of us might be familiar with temporomandibular joint issues in humans, especially because they are particularly annoying and might even hinder our capacity to eat properly but did you know our dogs can also suffer from this problem?
Pretty much in the same way we can have pain, difficulty biting and closing o... Read more >
Published 05 Jan 2018
Happy New Year everyone! We hope this was a productive and amazing year and we hope 2018 is even better! Wishes of all of the best this season has to offer from all of us here at The Pet Professionals.
While the New Year brings a lot of fun for us humans, don't forget the challenges many pets face during these d... Read more >
Published 14 Dec 2017
A very Merry Christmas from all of us here at The Pet Professionals! We hope this season is filled with joy and warmth! We also want toremind all owners to keep their pets safe during Christmas and New Years' celebrations.
Delicious foods and beautiful decorations seem to be everywhere right now. It's ... Read more >
Published 14 Dec 2017
Firework season has officially started! Normally, this is not met with much joy from our pets and its not hard to understand why.
If youve done all the preparations prior to Bonfire night such as behaviour modification, introduced specific medication to help with anxiety, purchased a very fashionable thunder... Read more >
Published 20 Oct 2017
We wish you a merry, scary Halloween! We are sure it will be a night filled with delicious treats, spooky costumes and lots of fun!
Having said that, there are a couple of things that can sometimes be dangerous to our pets:
Sweets are toxic! Many contain chocolate or a sweetener called xylitol, so keep them... Read more >
Published 20 Oct 2017
Few things are as good as long walks through the dazzling Autumn colours of the great outdoors with our daring doggies.
In the spirit of keeping everyone healthy during the Autumn months, we just wanted to remind everyone that mushrooms are in season and that several of these species are highly toxic to our dogs... Read more >
Published 28 Sep 2017
Atopic dermatitis is a skin disease of dogs and cats, but for our pooches, it's one of the most common allergic skin diseases right alongside flea bite hypersensitivity.
I's estimated to affect in about 3 to 15% of the canine population and it occurs due to an exaggerated response to environmental factors and su... Read more >
Published 25 Aug 2017
Grass seeds look fairly harmless don't they? Unfortunately, some of these seeds are a potential hazard for dogs that can lead to expensive and unwanted visits to the vet!
These seeds can get caught in your dog's fur very easily as they are shaped like small darts with thin bristly fibres. This particular shape c... Read more >
Published 31 Jul 2017
This is a thought that has probably crossed every caring and loving owner's mind: Is it worth getting your pet insured?
Responsible pet ownership has costs. From diet to preventative care (vaccinations, neutering and worm/flea treatments), having a pet means spending money and when considering the possibility of... Read more >
Published 13 Jul 2017
Spotting blood in a dog's pee is usually an alarming finding for pet owners. This is definitely a sign that should not be ignored but there are several conditions that can cause the appearance of blood in a dog's urine. More than often the reason behind it can be treated.
The presence of an abnormally high numbe... Read more >
Published 13 Jun 2017
Did you know that paraplegic animals with irreversible spinal cord injuries, especially in the lumbar portion, can sometimes recover locomotion?
It might sound a bit impossible - If the communication between brain and the muscles in the legs is severed than how can our pet still walk? That's where the sensationa... Read more >
Published 19 May 2017
Did you know that your waste bin can hide dangerous and unexpected poisonous substances for your pets? Let's talk about mycotoxin poisoning in pets.
Most humans know that eating decomposing mouldy food is not the best idea, not only because the flavour might not be very pleasant but also because it can make you si... Read more >
Published 11 Apr 2017
We bet you are all looking forward to the Easter weekend! Spending quality time with your family, your friends and with your pets is always a happy thought, especially during such a lovely time of the year. Don't forget that there are several traditional Easter foods that can be dangerous for our pets!
In order to... Read more >
Published 11 Apr 2017
Spring is a very much awaited time of the year, after months of cold and winter. Pets and humans alike thoroughly enjoy the sun's return, and nature around us slowly but surely gains those lovely colours once again.
During this time of the year, the first thing owners need to be on the lookout is for the seasona... Read more >
Published 24 Mar 2017
Pancreatitis is a common disease in middle-aged to old dogs that can be very painful and even life-threatening.
The pancreas is very important for dogs and humans alike. This is the organ directly responsible for the production of insulin, which plays a key role in the way the body handles sugar, and for the produ... Read more >
Published 24 Feb 2017
While whiskers on kittens may be a few of our favourite things, did you know that dogs also have whiskers?
Whiskers are called vibrissae, special hairs with tactile capacities found on several places of the body. So, whats the difference between these vibrissae and normal fur or human hair? Generally speaking,... Read more >
Published 26 Jan 2017
Let's gaze into the eye today and look at one of the most common causes of blindness in our dogs.
Cataracts are defined as the opacification of the lens, which is to say that the part of the eye that acts as the focal point for light no longer lets light pass through it. The crystalline lens, as it is called in ... Read more >
Published 13 Jan 2017
With holidays just around the corner, it also comes a time to leave our puppers and dogs alike in all manners of kennels or hotels while we jet off to our vacations (that is, those of us that dont take our canine companions with us!).
Most of the time, though, these kennels will require vaccination against ken... Read more >
Published 07 Dec 2016
The de-icing of roads is commonly done with a mixture of gravel and rock salt. It acts by lowering the freezing point of water, meaning that a lower temperature is required for water to freeze on pavements, roads and assorted other pathways.
Rock salt is common table salt, sodium chloride, in its crystal form.
Whe... Read more >
Published 10 Nov 2016
Gastric dilation or bloat is a condition that all dog owners should be familiar with, since it can be deadly if it is not diagnosed and treated on time.
Dogs affected by this condition present a distended stomach filled with gas and/or fluid, rotated along its short axis. This will lead to pain, cardiac arrhythm... Read more >
Published 14 Oct 2016
Phantom pregnancy or false pregnancy is a condition in which non-pregnant female dogs experience various physical and behavioural changes commonly associated with pregnancy. This is a relatively common condition among dogs and it occurs due to normal hormonal changes that happen during the dogs breeding cycle.
U... Read more >
Published 18 Aug 2016
Dogs suffering from separation anxiety become upset when separated from the person or persons to whom they are most attached to, usually their owners.
Separation anxiety may be driven by fear, anxiety, over attachment to the owner, and lack of appropriate stimulation or interactions. Changes in the household tha... Read more >
Published 21 Jul 2016
Summer is finally here and the warm weather is the perfect time to take a few days off from work and enjoy lots of fun outdoor activities with your pets. It is also important to remind owners that there are a few precautions that should be kept in mind now that the temperatures are rising.
Dogs and cats only swe... Read more >
Published 23 Jun 2016
An increase in pet ownership combined with longer working hours, means more and more people are relying on pet care professionals to help look after their beloved four legged friends. And when leaving your pet in the care of another you want to be sure they are trustworthy, reliable and ultimately covered should an... Read more >
Published 24 May 2016
The main functions of a dogs hair coat are to protect the skin and to help regulate temperature. Canine hair grows from hair follicles in the skin and these cycle during the entire lifespan of a dog.
The hair cycle can be divided in three different phases: an active growth phase, termed anagen, in which the ha... Read more >
Published 16 May 2016
Whether its working alongside a resident pet or bringing in your own, a furry creature can be a welcome addition to an office. In Britain we love our pets and over half of us have said wed happily take them into work if we could.
To find out what having an office pet entails, Lilli Hender from OfficeGenie.co... Read more >
Published 28 Apr 2016
The importance of our pets dental health is often underestimated. Having poor dental health doesnt affect just a pets breath. Pets with poor oral hygiene can suffer from painful oral infections, premature tooth loss and the problem is not restricted to their mouth. The bacteria causing infection in their mout... Read more >
Published 22 Apr 2016
Babesiosis, a tick-borne disease that can be fatal for dogs, has been recently diagnosed in Essex. Two of the infected dogs did not survive and three other dogs needed intensive support treatment and blood transfusions.
It's the first time this disease has been diagnosed in the UK and the affected dogs have not tr... Read more >
Published 22 Mar 2016
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Seizures in pets can range from mild to severe or violent and watching a beloved pet have a seizure can be very hard for a pet owner. Pets having fits can display muscle spasms or tremors, involuntary repetitive movements (shaking for example), vocalisation, excessive salivation, hallucinations, loss of bowel or ur... Read more >
Published 10 Mar 2016
If your female dog is expecting puppies then this post is for you. It is important for you to be informed on how this process develops so you can intervene and help your pet if necessary.
Dystocia is a medical term referring to difficulty of giving birth and this can occur during any stage of labour. There are t... Read more >
Published 22 Feb 2016
Alabama Rot Disease, scientifically known as cutaneous and renal glomerular vasculopathy, was first identified in the USA in the 1980s, affecting almost exclusively greyhounds. In the UK, the first reported cases were from the New Forest Area but more recently new cases of this disease have been described throughou... Read more >
Published 11 Feb 2016
If there is one thing pet owners should keep in mind is to be careful with what their pets have access to.
Our pets can eat the most unbelievable things and in relatively large amounts. Vets know this very well as they are the ones who frequently treat these cases. That is why we wanted to share with you some of t... Read more >
Published 08 Jan 2016
There are only a few more days left until Christmas and although this is a wonderful time of the year it has many potential dangers for our pets, especially if owners are not aware of them.
Christmas food is definitely on top of our list! The festive season is usually filled with sweets, chocolates, minc... Read more >
Published 17 Dec 2015
Christmas is a fun and happy time of the year. It's all about celebrating, eating delicious food, spending time with your loved ones and getting lovely gifts for family and friends. During this time of the year it is very common for people to either get a new pet or to give a pet as a gift.
This seems to... Read more >
Published 17 Dec 2015
Unfortunately ear infections are common in dogs and although dogs with long or hairy ears such as Cocker Spaniels, Miniature Poodles or Old English Sheepdogs seem to be more susceptible, ear infections can affect any breed. Other predisposing factors include anatomical issues such as stenotic ear canals and increased... Read more >
Published 10 Nov 2015
Nowadays there are several types of rodenticides available for sale and sadly, our pets are often poisoned by these chemicals. These pellets often have strong blue or green colours. Many rodenticides are made with anticoagulant substances which will affect an animals ability to clot its own blood. As a result, po... Read more >
Published 13 Oct 2015
The number of reported cases of lungworm disease are rising in the UK and it is very important for owners to know more about the illness, in order to protect their dog from it.
Lungworm disease is caused by small roundworms, parasites called Angiostrongylus Vasorum and young dogs are more commonly affected. The adul... Read more >
Published 16 Sep 2015
During wet weather the number of slugs and snails increases dramatically as this type of weather provides an ideal environment for these animals. Slug pellets are commonly used to control their numbers in order to protect our gardens, orchards and vegetable farms.
Although they are meant for slugs and snails, unfort... Read more >
Published 19 Aug 2015
Most pet owners have probably already heard or read somewhere that there are many health benefits associated with pet ownership. Although there is still controversy over these results, many scientific studies have been suggesting that pets can bring advantages to their owners health.
Studies have shown that people... Read more >
Published 22 Jul 2015
Warm weather means enjoying outdoor activities and for dogs and dog owners alike these are great news! Its time for pleasant walks outside, outdoor sports and even going for a swim! However the summer heat can be a bit too much for our furry companions so this is an excellent time to remind owners how to recognis... Read more >
Published 08 Jul 2015
Owning a dog can be incredibly rewarding but it is also a huge responsibility! In a recent article by Sainsburys Bank you can find lots of useful and important information on everything you need to know and consider before getting a new dog.
Future dog owners must ask themselves if they have the time, the mone... Read more >
Published 30 Jun 2015
Never leave you dog locked in the car during the warm season!
Most animal lovers have probably heard of this problem but talking about this and spreading the word around is the best way to save lives: canine lives.
Owners should never leave their dogs unattended and locked in their car during the warm season,... Read more >
Published 05 Jun 2015
The information on this post might be very useful if you ever come across a stray dog or a lost dog in need of help. Please take the time to read it as it could help a less fortunate canine someday.
If the dog is just lost from its owners it is very likely to be carrying some sort of identification. Check the dog fo... Read more >
Published 13 May 2015
On November 23rd, 2013, Jude Devine was visiting friends in Liverpool when Harvey, her poodle, went missing. Jude was absolutely distraught and she did everything she could think of to find Harvey. She spent more than £8,000 in leaflets, banners, adverts and she even lived in a caravan to be close and search the are... Read more >
Published 25 Mar 2015
Fleas are extremely common parasites that feed off the blood of mammals, which includes pets such as dogs, cats, rabbits and they will also bite humans. Most pet owners have seen them at some point, since these tiny brown insects are very common and can be a problem all year round.
Although fleas are usually not a l... Read more >
Published 11 Mar 2015
Most of us are aware that dogs have an incredible sense of smell. Despite this well-known fact, dogs keep surprising us again and again with each new achievement. Just recently a rescue German Shepherd-mix named Frankie was successfully trained to differentiate between benign thyroid disease and thyroid cancer simp... Read more >
Published 19 Feb 2015
Although the evenings are getting a little lighter we are still in the depths of winter with below zero temperatures and reduced daylight hours. This article is designed to give you some practical tips that will help you to look after your pet during the last few months of winter.
1. Exercise in winter
The short... Read more >
Published 05 Feb 2015
Rock salt is very commonly used during winter all over the UK. The substance is a mixture of salt, grit and other components such as magnesium that works as an ice melter. It is often spread on our roads to keep them clear of ice and snow, and on sidewalks and footpaths to prevent slips and falls.
Despite being so c... Read more >
Published 14 Jan 2015
Christmas is fast approaching and it's very hard not to be excited with the upcoming events: days off work, sharing delicious meals with family and friends, gorgeous decorations and gifts!
During this time of the year our homes become filled with new items and this also has a considerable impact in our pets lives!... Read more >
Published 11 Dec 2014
Antifreeze is very common in our homes during the winter months whether it is being used to prevent water from freezing inside our household pipes or to de-ice our cars in the morning. This substance is also present in most motor vehicle antifreezes and it is also found in some screen washers.
The problem with antif... Read more >
Published 27 Nov 2014
Ebola has been a recurrent topic on the news lately and recent events involving companion animals that were in close contact with Ebola patients have raised many questions among veterinary surgeons and pet owners.
The first person to contract Ebola outside Africa was a Spanish nursing assistant called Teresa Romero ... Read more >
Published 14 Nov 2014
As our beloved dogs get into their golden years, they go through several physical and behaviour changes.
Age alone does not define a dog as being old or geriatric as aging is a process influenced by genetics and lifestyle. A dogs size has an enormous influence in its rate of ageing. In general, when considering sm... Read more >
Published 05 Nov 2014
Have you ever noticed if your dog has an optimistic or a pessimistic character?
In general, dogs seem cheerful and happy with their tail wags and enthusiasm for outdoor walks. For this reason most owners would probably think that their four-legged friend has an optimistic outlook on life. A recent study has showed t... Read more >
Published 22 Oct 2014
A recent survey carried out amongst 100 veterinary practitioners by a UK based insurance company, revealed that more than 75% of the participating vets reported to have treated pets that have ingested human medication in the last year. While on most of these cases animals had ingested human medicines by accident, in ... Read more >
Published 08 Oct 2014
Fireworks season is upon us and although this is a time of great fun for us, it can cause a lot of fear and stress to our pets. Some dogs are absolutely terrified of those loud, sudden bangs and it is truly heart-breaking to see them hiding, shaking and cowering underneath the furniture!
The best way to help your pe... Read more >
Published 26 Sep 2014
How does your dog feel about car rides? Is your pet overjoyed with the idea of getting into your car or is that somehow a source of stress in his or her life?
Although all dogs can suffer from motion sickness, this is more commonly seen in puppies and young dogs. This happens because puppies dont have all their in... Read more >
Published 08 Sep 2014
Most dog owners and pet lovers have seen or heard of this particular dog behaviour. It can be quite inconvenient especially if the beloved family dog drags his or hers bottom across the living room carpet.Dogs will scoot their bums along the floor when something is causing discomfort or irritation. This is a way for ... Read more >
Published 22 Aug 2014
Most of us is aware or has heard at some point that our canine friends have an amazing sense of smell. Dogs have about 200 million olfactory cells in their noses that allow them to detect several different odours.
We have been using that ability to our advantage for many years. Dogs have been used to help authoritie... Read more >
Published 07 Aug 2014
"Do you want to know more about your pet?
A new website, thepetprofessionals.co.uk, has been launched for owners who want to learn more about pet health care." - An advice by Pete the Vet!
Pete is an experienced veterinary surgeon with an incredible passion for communication, who also has had pets for most o... Read more >
Published 24 Jul 2014
Most dog owners are not aware that grass seeds are a potential danger to pets. All dogs are at risk but long haired, long eared dogs, and dogs with hairy feet are particularly susceptible.
With their arrow-like structure and long harsh fibres, grass seeds will easily get caught in your dogs haircoat, mak... Read more >
Published 11 Jul 2014
Loving pet owners always want the best for their companions and often search online for tips and advice regarding their animals health and wellbeing. It can however be difficult to find accurate, independent and reliable information.
This new and exciting online community is dedicated to providing owners with th... Read more >
Published 26 Jun 2014
Summer is finally here and everybody is eager to make the most out of the long, sunny days with fun outdoor activities. To avoid unnecessary accidents, its always a good idea to remind dog owners that its important to protect their canine companions from the hot weather.
Humans are quite efficient at cooling the... Read more >
Published 17 Jun 2014
Recent amendments to the Dangerous Dogs Act meant to tackle irresponsible dog ownership, came into effect on 13 May 2014. All dog owners in England and Wales need to be fully aware that there were many significant changes in the law that concern them, regardless of their dogs size, breed or temperament.
The provis... Read more >
Published 05 Jun 2014
Recent studies conducted in the UK have found that approximately 40% of our pets are overweight. Although dogs seem to be more affected, cats are right behind them statistically speaking and even small animals such as rabbits, hamsters and guinea pigs are starting to suffer from this condition as well. Obesity has be... Read more >
Published 16 May 2014
Dogs communicate with each other and with humans through vocalisation and through body language. It is very important for us to have a basic understanding of canine behaviour and canine body language, in order to avoid any miscommunications that may lead to less positive interactions. Knowing how to read our dogs... Read more >
Published 02 May 2014
We all know how happy a dog can be when he realises he is getting a treat: the anxious nose licking, the vigorous tail wags and the priceless expressions! To most caring owners seeing their pet so happy makes them happy! That is probably the main reason why we just love to share our food with our dog.
Chocolate is o... Read more >
Published 16 Apr 2014
These parasites have a pointed head and a barbed structure in their mouth that is used to attach themselves to the skin of their host where they will feed for several days.
It is very common for these nasty parasites to go unnoticed by owners, hidden in their pets fur, until engorged females become easier to see... Read more >
Published 04 Apr 2014
The Uk is considered to be a nation of pet lovers and dogs are at the top of the list of the most popular pets in our households. Recently, several studies have suggested that there are many health benefits associated with pet ownership including reduced stress and blood pressure.
Although owning a dog has many ben... Read more >
Published 18 Mar 2014
Vaccines are usually separated into two different groups or categories: the core vaccines and the non-core vaccines. Core vaccines are recommended for all dogs in general and will allow them to develop immunity against canine distemper, hepatitis and parvovirus. Non-core vaccines are recommended only if your pet is a... Read more >
Published 04 Mar 2014
The microchip is considered the best permanent method of pet identification by vets, animal organisations and general authorities. A pet should be identified with a microchip as well as with a collar and an identification tag but the microchip is a much more effective system since collars and tags can easily be remov... Read more >
Published 18 Feb 2014
Dogs are known for their incredible sense of smell but most people are not fully aware of how powerful those noses really are. A dogs sense of smell is somewhere between 1,000 to 10,000,000 times more sensitive than a humans, depending on the breed.
Our canine friends can smell tiny scent particles and in an env... Read more >
Published 07 Feb 2014
The Pet Professionals are proud to support the Blue Cross. 10% of your club membership fee will be donated to the Blue Cross an animal charity with animal hospitals and animal adoption services to find homes for unwanted dogs, horses, cats and small animals across the UK.
Join the Club and be part of the UK's fas... Read more >
Published 21 Jan 2014
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