Simplifying Parasite Control

We’re now in the height of summer when external parasites such as fleas and ticks are at their most prevalent. Internal parasites such as Lungworm, despite being hidden are not to be forgotten either as they rely on slugs or snails to complete their life cycle which are commonplace in gardens throughout the warmer months.

Overweight Pet or The Perfect Figure?

Around this time of year, many of us start to think about wearing less and wondering what that’s going to look like! The perfect figure is elusive for most of us…and our pets! The little snack here or there can accumulate over the winter months and so when the long coats come off, the results of our edible indulgences become all too obvious.

Dilated Cardiomyopathy – Mending a Broken heart

Dilated Cardiomyopathy (DCM) is the second most common type of heart disease typically affecting medium to large breed dogs such as Dobermans, Great Danes, Boxers, German Shepherds, Labradors and Retrievers. It causes the heart muscle to stretch and become floppy eventually leading to heart failure as the heart cannot effectively pump blood around the body.

Summertime

The first weeks of May have provided some welcome sunshine and even our first BBQ of the year! Although it’s not quite paddling pool weather every day, the warmer weather can pose problems and even dangers to our pets.

Eye tests: An Aye for an Eye

This month I want to promote eye testing in dogs at the Sherborne Castle Country Fair, which this year is on Bank Holiday Monday May 30th. The Fair has been held every year for over a decade and all proceeds go to local childrens’ charities, made possible by the dedication and hard work of the volunteers

Eye Clinic at the Sherborne Country Fair

Dogs are said to be man’s best friend; apparently it’s all down to those puppy dog eyes! Last year scientists in Japan found that gazing into your pet’s eyes caused a spike in the same hormone that is responsible for the bond between a parent and child. So don’t worry you’re not being soppy, its science!

Microchipping: A Story

Many years ago before children and even marriage, my future wife and I returned home from Battersea Dogs and Cats Home with our first cat, Jackson. He was so confident and friendly in the cattery; however he hid under the table for two days before quietly growing in confidence. We kept him indoors for several weeks before letting him venture outside.

A Vaccine Amnesty – is it really necessary?

During the months of March and April we are running a vaccine amnesty for both dogs and cats at our Practices. This means for pets that for whatever reason are overdue a vaccination; we will restart their vaccinations for the price of a normal booster. This invariably raises a few questions on the fundamentals of vaccination itself.

Road Traffic Accidents: Beware of Night Owls

Road traffic accidents (RTAs) are a major cause of trauma to wild and domestic animals. Cats roaming around at night are in the greatest danger as they are dazzled by car headlights and lose their normally excellent sense of spatial awareness. My advice: keep pussy cats indoors at night despite their protestations.

Increased Thirst: Water, water everywhere

I spent last week in the sunny, snowy, French Alps and have returned home to find the rain has continued. I’m waiting for the day the animals enter the surgery two by two!