Cat flu? Ah-choo! Despite the simple-sounding name, “cat flu” can be a complex issue for our feline family members! What is cat flu? Cat flu, also known as feline upper respiratory tract disease, is a pattern of respiratory unwellness symptoms that can be caused by...
Preventing parvovirus Our team wants to ensure that all pets are up-to-date with vaccinations appropriate for their age, lifestyle and environment. However, we are particularly concerned about keeping all our canine patients protected against parvovirus. It’s...
Does my dog have worms? Unfortunately, intestinal worms are pretty common in pets - and even the best-kept canine citizens can be susceptible. Young pups can become infected with worms through their mother’s milk or from contact with the faeces of other infected...
Pet breathing difficulties Pet breathing difficulties (also known as dyspnoea) can indicate a serious issue, and may be distressing for both the affected pet and their owner. What are some common causes of pet breathing difficulties? Dyspnoea in pets can be caused by:...
A sting in the tail Bees are sometimes colloquially referred to as “spicy sky raisins”, because our curious pets are often drawn to snap at or play with these buzzing insects, and can unfortunately pay a rather painful price as a result! What will happen to my pet if...
Dietary indiscretion Uh oh, your pet has just stolen and eaten something they shouldn't have… What should you do? If you think that your pet may have eaten something potentially toxic, it’s always best to seek veterinary advice as soon as possible. Time can be of the...
A sharp warning Like us, animals don’t always get on with each other! Unfortunately, the results of their disagreements can range from a warning nip to a full-blown attack or fight. As well as being traumatic and upsetting for the pets involved (and us as owners), dog...
Tummy troubles When our pets are suffering from an upset tummy, we empathise with them and want to relieve their troubles as soon as possible (even if we’re pretty sure their symptoms are the result of some cheeky food scrap stealing). However, it can sometimes be...
Super-friendly cats: 'Slinkies' and 'Floofs' In addition to particularly confident 'moggies', there are some popular cat breeds with a reputation for being highly friendly and almost dog-like in their behaviour. We like to divide these cats into two cat-egories – the...
Giants among us Despite their intimidating size, giant breeds such as bernese mountain dogs, dogue de bordeaux and mastiffs are often devoted, gentle and sensitive family members. It’s important to be aware that these “Big Friendly Giants” will naturally cost more to...
Lapping up the attention The companionship and comfort of a little dog curled up on your lap can be a real positive for mental health. Whilst many dogs love a good cuddle, breeds such as chihuahuas, poodles, shih tzus and maltese have a particular reputation for being...
Climate damage on the Great Barrier Reef: can we hit “reef-resh”? Image sources: the ABC, the Guardian Hope is in the air - or better yet, in the sea - after a recent coral spawning event took place in November last year. This annual spectacle in the Great Barrier...
Them rolls: dog breeds with excess skin Shar-peis, basset hounds, neapolitan mastiffs, bulldogs and dogue de bordeaux. What do they all have in common? Lots of skin folds and wrinkles! Whilst dogs with rolls can look appealing, their excess skin can, unfortunately,...
Snootiful sighthounds Whether you’re thinking of adopting an adult greyhound or welcoming a whippet pup into the household, you’re in for a treat! As well as looking like the perfect cross between a dog and a reindeer, sighthounds are generally gentle, sweet dogs who...
The dangers of bones! Whilst it is really tempting to share tasty Christmas roast leftovers with your pet, it’s safest to immediately dispose of any cooked turkey or ham bone remnants into a large, secure outdoor bin, where your pet can’t access them. Why? Firstly,...
The skinny on fatty foods and dogs Unfortunately, whilst most dogs would really love a hearty meal of Christmas ham and crackling, or a bowl filled with turkey meat, it’s best to be really careful about feeding these types of foods to our pets. How can fatty foods be...
What might Santa bring your cat? Looking for the “purr-fect” Christmas gift for your cat? Whilst there are some pretty excellent cat toys available online, it’s also possible to give your cat a great home-made present too! Cat furniture Cat furniture provides your cat...
What might Santa bring your dog? For a very happy canine this Christmas, consider organising one of these dog-friendly gifts for your four-legged friend! Toys If your pet loves playing fetch, you could consider a mouth-friendly toy made from tough, chew-resistant...
Toxic Christmas foods During the holiday season, many of us want to be able to treat our pets a little too! So, our team would like to provide an official “naughty or nice” Christmas food list, outlining which foods are potentially harmful to your pet, and which ones...
Shedding those excess canine kg’s! It’s estimated that up to 50% of dogs are overweight, and in many cases, their well-meaning owners may not actually realise! Body condition scoring is a useful way of objectively assessing your pet’s weight through comparing them to...
Fat cats Unfortunately, feline obesity is increasingly common, and brings with it an increased risk of issues such as diabetes, fatty liver disease, urinary tract disease and arthritis. If you think your cat may not be at their ideal healthy weight, it’s best to bring...
Not just a “lazy bones”! If your dog seems to be tiring quickly on walks, don’t just chalk it up to “laziness” or old age. Certain medical issues can also reduce exercise tolerance – here are a few common ones that are worth bearing in mind for any older pet who’s...
Keeping up with high-energy dog breeds High-energy dog breeds make for fun exercise and play buddies - and can also be great “workers” if their energy is channelled into a productive task. Within any breed, there is some variability in temperament. However,...
“Healthy pets don’t need to go to the vet, do they?” Yes. Healthy pets DO benefit from a regular vet check! We don’t want you to wait until your pet is unwell to book an appointment – we love to see them on a regular basis! This isn’t just because we love seeing your...