Weekday: 8:30am to 6:00pm | Saturday: Closed Sunday: Closed
Weekday: 8:30am to 6:00pm (open until 8pm Tuesday & Thursday) | Saturday: 9am to 2pm | Sunday: 9am to 12pm
As the days grow longer and temperatures begin to rise, springtime is perfect to enjoy the outdoors with your pets. Whether it’s longer walks, more playtime in the garden, or countryside adventures, this season brings plenty of opportunities for enrichment and exercise.
However, spring also introduces a range of seasonal risks that pet owners should be aware of. We’re here to help you stay one step ahead so your pets can enjoy the season safely.
Springtime gardens may be in full bloom, but many common plants can be harmful to pets. Daffodils, tulips, lilies, and bluebells are among the most frequently encountered toxic plants.
Bulbs are particularly dangerous, and even small amounts can cause vomiting, diarrhoea, drooling, or more serious complications in some cases.
As insect activity increases, pets are more likely to encounter bees, wasps, and other biting insects, often out of curiosity. Scent is how they explore the world after all!
Most stings result in mild irritation, but some pets can develop allergic reactions.
If you notice facial swelling, hives, sudden lethargy, or difficulty breathing, your pet could be having a severe allergic reaction, which is an emergency, so please don’t hesitate to get in touch for advice.
With many owners turning their attention to gardening, exposure to fertilisers, weed killers, and pesticides becomes a higher risk for our pets.
These substances can be toxic if ingested, inhaled, or even absorbed through your pet’s paws. Always follow product instructions carefully, store chemicals securely, and keep pets away from treated areas.
Spring marks the peak season for parasites. Fleas and ticks thrive in warmer conditions, while worms remain a consistent threat throughout the year. Aside from causing discomfort, parasites can transmit diseases and lead to more serious health problems if left untreated.
Prevention is key: Regular, effective parasite control is one of the simplest ways to protect your pet. For the most cost-effective way to care for your pet, join our pet health plan!
Just like humans, pets can suffer from seasonal allergies triggered by pollen, grasses, and environmental allergens.
Signs of allergies in pets can include:
We have a strong focus on diagnosing and managing skin conditions. Our vet, Peter Luscombe, is an Advanced Practitioner in Veterinary Dermatology, allowing us to investigate and treat many allergy-related conditions in-house, offering more specialised advice at first opinion level. For more complex or persistent cases, Dr Peri Lau-Gillard is an RCVS Specialist in Veterinary Dermatology and EBVS® European Specialist in Veterinary Dermatology, welcoming referral cases at our practice, as a visiting dermatology specialist to ensure your pet receives the highest level of care.
With improved weather comes increased activity; longer walks, more running, and more play. While this is fantastic for your pet’s well-being, it can sometimes highlight underlying mobility issues, particularly in older pets or those with joint conditions.
You may notice:
These signs shouldn’t be ignored. Early investigation can make a significant difference in long-term comfort and quality of life.
We’re equipped with advanced diagnostic tools, including a CT scanner, which allows us to investigate complex musculoskeletal issues with greater precision. We also offer a range of treatment options, including tailored pain management plans and physiotherapy, helping pets stay active and comfortable for longer.
With more time spent outside during springtime, pets may be exposed to additional risks such as road traffic, unfamiliar environments, and interactions with other animals.
Stay prepared:
Cats in particular can also be at higher risk this time of year. With more time outdoors, they are at higher risk of road traffic collisions, and we also see an increase in abscesses. As cats more frequently come into contact with one another, fighting is more common. An abscess in a cat is a localised pocket of pus, bacteria, and dead tissue that forms under the skin, commonly resulting from fight wounds (bites or scratches). When a cat is bitten, the feline’s sharp, bacteria-filled teeth inject infection deep into the tissue; the skin then heals rapidly, sealing the bacteria inside. Whilst the abscess itself is not an emergency, without timely and effective treatment, your cat can become very unwell, so it’s imperative they are seen and the abscess is treated.
Prevention is the foundation of good health. Our Pet Health Plan is designed to make routine care simple, affordable, and effective, giving you peace of mind throughout every season. Our plan also includes UNLIMITED veterinary or nurse consultations, meaning you never have to delay seeking veterinary attention.
With our plan, you can benefit from:
Join thousands of pet owners benefitting from our health plan and sign up today.
If you have any concerns about your pet’s health, mobility, or skin condition, or would simply like some seasonal advice, our friendly team is always here to help.
