Your Pets Daily - PDSA

Loss of pet dog inspires London Marathon entry

Jessica Curtis — Wed, 03 Apr 2024 19:00:00 +0000

A keen runner is going the extra mile for pets in need after signing up to this year's TCS London Marathon in memory of her dog who died last year.

Joanne Dobie, (46), is running the 26.2-mile challenge to raise vital funds for leading vet charity PDSA after losing her dog, a black labrador cross called Coopers, last year to cancer.

"We lost our lovely girl Coopers last year and it totally broke us," explained Joanne. "She was only 10 years old, and it was all very sudden.

"In the days before we had to make the terrible decision to let her go, we spent a lot of time in the vets, as she had to have tests and scans to try and find out what was wrong and whether any treatment was possible. Sadly, Coopers had kidney failure and incurable cancer and it was the kindest option for her to have her put to sleep.

"We were in the fortunate position of having pet insurance that covered most of the bills. Which meant we didn't have to worry about how we were going to pay for them, at the same time as being so upset and heartbroken about what was happening to our best friend.

"The experience really highlighted for me how important charities such as PDSA are, as during that time I could imagine how awful it must be for pet owners who are unable to afford veterinary bills or pet insurance, especially during such an emotional point in a pet owner's life."

It's been almost 12 months since Coopers passed away and Joanne says there's still a hole in her family.

"Just before Coopers passed away, the London Marathon was on and I pledged then that I would run the marathon next year and raise money for PDSA in Coopers' honour."

The self-employed editor who lives with her husband Greg (48) in North London isn't new to the challenge.

"I ran the London Marathon 15 years ago when I was a lot younger," she laughed. "I am still a very keen runner though. I've done numerous half-marathons, three marathons and one half-ironman in my time. I enjoy it!

"I'm halfway there with my fundraising, it's mainly come from generous friends and family who have seen my social media training updates, I also had a massive clear out and sold loads of clothes on Vinted."

Faye Waters, Fundraising Manager at PDSA, said: "We're all so thankful to Joanne for choosing to run for PDSA this year in memory of Coopers. Her generous fundraising efforts will enable us to continue our life-saving work, treating pets whose owners have nowhere else to turn. It is thanks to the incredible support of kind-hearted people like Joanne that we are able to provide vital treatment for poorly animals and make a real difference to their owners' lives."

To support Joanne on her marathon visit justgiving.com/page/joanne-dobie-pdsa

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London Marathon

PDSA Weekly Q&As - April 2nd 2024

Tom Stone — Tue, 02 Apr 2024 07:00:00 +0000

Dear PDSA Vet, my older dog, Milo, seems to have dementia, is this possible? He's 14-years-old now, and has been barking a lot lately, seems confused and he's suddenly started toileting in the house. Thanks, Hamish

Hi Hamish, cognitive dysfunction, also known as 'doggy dementia' is a condition that can develop in some dogs as their brain ages. There are some wide-ranging symptoms that will often start quite subtle - you may just notice your dog acting slightly differently, but visible symptoms tend to become worse and more obvious over time. Some of the symptoms you might notice include the ones you have mentioned, as well as: low energy or depression, being unsettled or not sleeping at night, forgetting commands, pacing around, staring into space, eating less or much more, new fears or phobias and aggression or changes in behaviour. Speak with your Vet about Milo, it would be a good idea to get him checked over to rule out any other underlying problems and they may be able to prescribe medication that can help. For more info: www.pdsa.org.uk/dementia-in-dogs-cognitive-dysfunction

Dear PDSA Vet, I now work from home, and my cat, Finn, likes to climb on my desk and wander all over my laptop. I like him near me when I'm working, but how can I encourage him not to do this? Thank you, Sara

Hi Sara, Finn might be climbing and jumping simply because he enjoys it and likes to be up high, or he wants to be near you or watch you while you're doing your thing! In the room where you work, you can try putting a cat bed on a side-table. This way Finn can still enjoy your company while you work, but he's not in the way of your laptop. As well as this, cats enjoy varied height shelving they can climb up to and perch on or large scratching towers that have hanging toys which he can play with to keep him entertained whilst being in your company. More information about cats, can be found: www.pdsa.org.uk/cats

Dear PDSA Vet, I have a Newfoundland puppy, and I hear the breed are meant to be keen swimmers, is this true? Thanks, Arran

Hi Arran, Newfoundlands do have a water-resistant coat and webbed feet that make them ideal for swimming. This can vary between dogs though, as they each have their own personality, and whilst some will enjoy a swim, others may not! They shouldn't be over-exercised as puppies when their bones and joints are still developing, so if you'd like to see if your puppy will enjoy a swim, introduce swimming slowly. Pick a place where the water is safe, easily accessible - so you can easily retrieve them if they are unhappy, and make sure it does not have an undercurrent. Whilst having a dip can be fun, be sure to know all about the area you are planning on taking your dog for a dip, and feel sure you know about water safety before letting your dog around bodies of water: www.pdsa.org.uk/water-safety

Dear PDSA Vet, my Poodles nails seem to be really long, can I clip them at home? Thanks, Slyvia

Hi Slyvia, you can definitely clip your dog's nails at home, but you'll need to make sure you have special dog nail clippers, not scissors or human clippers. You want to always make sure your dog is relaxed and comfortable before you cut their nails and give your dog treats during and after clipping to make it a positive experience. The quick is the part inside the claw that contains blood vessels and nerves, it's red or pink so it's usually easy to see in light-coloured claws. This part of the nail will bleed and be painful if it is cut. Estimate where to cut based on looking at the quick in another similar (but light-coloured) nail. If all the nails are dark, ask your vet to show you where to cut. If your dog gets stressed at any point, you should stop, give them a treat and try again another time. For more information about clipping your dog's nails, head to: www.pdsa.org.uk/how-to-clip-your-dogs-nails

For more information visit pdsa.org.uk

PDSA is the UK's largest vet charity providing a vital service for pets across the UK whose owners struggle to afford treatment costs for their sick and injured pets. For many vulnerable pets, PDSA is there to help when there is nowhere else for their owners to turn. Support from players of People's Postcode Lottery helps us reach even more pet owners with vital advice and information.

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PDSA Weekly Vet Q&A - 26 March 2024

Katie Court — Wed, 27 Mar 2024 12:00:00 +0000

Dear PDSA Vet, I have a Springer Spaniel, Nellie, who loves to run through long grass. I know ticks are commonly found in long grass; how do I know if Nellie has picked one up? Thanks Geoffrey

Hi Geoffrey, you're right, ticks are commonly found in long grass, woodlands, and areas with lots of wildlife or sheep, so it is important to be mindful when heading out for dog walks. The best way to look for ticks is to check Nellie all over after each walk. Ticks are commonly found on your pet's head, ears, armpits, groin and tummy, but give Nellie a complete check over just in case. If you find a tick on Nellie, it is important to remove the tick quickly and properly with a tick removing tool for advice on how to do this safely visit: www.pdsa.org.uk/ticks-on-dogs

Dear PDSA Vet, we've just moved into a new home with our Greyhound, Joey. We have a lovely garden full of plants, but do I need to be mindful of Joey around some of them? Rosemary

Hi Rosemary, hope you are settling well in your new home. Many beautiful common plants, such as daffodils and tulips are toxic to pets and can lead to them becoming unwell if they eat them. The bulbs often have a higher concentration of nutrients than leaves or flowers, so can be more dangerous for your pet. If Joey likes to explore with his mouth, it might be best to section off any areas in your garden with toxic plants, or use tubs and planters that are raised off the ground where he can't reach them. More information can be found: www.pdsa.org.uk/poisonousplants

Dear PDSA Vet, my 6-year-old cat, Ginger has been sneezing, has weepy eyes and a snotty nose. Should I be worried? Thanks, Suhayla

Hi Suhayla, it sounds as though Ginger could have cat flu – it has similar symptoms to human flu, like the ones you've mentioned, and sometimes they have a high temperature. You can help Ginger by keeping his nose clean to prevent build up, so he can smell his food, which will encourage him to eat. Also encourage him to drink, offering him the liquid from a tin of tuna in spring water should entice him. There is no specific cure for cat flu, but treatment can help to reduce symptoms, speed up recovery, and limit future flare-ups. It's best to get in touch with your vet so they can advise on the best treatment options for Ginger. More info on cat flu can be found: www.pdsa.org.uk/cat-flu

Dear PDSA Vet, my rabbit, Sugar, has suddenly gone off her food and doesn't seem to be eating much, is this a cause for concern? Zoe

Hi Zoe, unlike many other species, who can cope with occasionally missing a meal, rabbits need to eat almost continually to keep their guts moving. It's extremely important to contact your Vet if Sugar is suddenly eating less or not eating at all. There are many different problems that could have caused your rabbit to stop eating, but some of the most common include dental disease, stress, and gut problems. If Sugar has stopped eating completely, she could be at risk of serious life-threatening complications such as gut stasis, a gut blockage, dehydration and liver disease. So, give your Vet a call to get Sugar checked over. Find out more: www.pdsa.org.uk/rabbits

For more information visit pdsa.org.uk

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Ticks on dogs

PDSA Weekly Pet Care Column: Keeping happy bunnies this Easter

Jessica Curtis — Wed, 20 Mar 2024 20:00:00 +0000

With Easter around the corner, we're bound to see lots of Easter bunnies around from cards to bunny shaped sweet treats!

PDSA Vet Nurse Nina Downing shares the top tips for keeping bunnies at home.

Nina said: "Rabbits may seem like an 'easier' pet to have, but there's lots to know about rabbits, and they do require a lot of space, care and attention to keep them happy and healthy.

Rabbits need at least one bunny best friend

"If rabbits live alone, they can feel socially isolated and become bored, frustrated, anxious, and destructive. Fellow bunny companionship offers them warmth, comfort and company.

"Rabbits can happily live together in these combinations:

a neutered male and a neutered female – often the most successful pairing.
two litter brothers or two litter sisters – although there is no risk of pregnancy when you have rabbits of the same sex living together, it's still important to neuter to reduce the risk of fighting as they get older and to help prevent illness.
a compatible group – rabbits can live in groups, but unless the rabbits are related and neutered early, bunny bonding can be harder to achieve.

"For the happiest bunnies, we suggest keeping a neutered male with a neutered female. If you can home a brother and sister together, that's ideal as they'll already know each other and will be less likely to fight."

Keeping your bunnies outdoors

Small hutches or cages don't allow for rabbits to exhibit their natural behaviours, making them unsuitable accommodation. Whilst rabbits are thought of as 'small pets', they do require a good amount of room to live a happy and healthy life. Their home needs to be at the very least 3m x 2m x 1m/10 ft x 6 ft x 3ft, but the bigger the better.
Inside your rabbit's accommodation should be a shelter, where they will relax, sleep, eat and drink, as well as hay, food and water bowls, a litter tray and a digging tray. Plus, plenty of toys and hiding spots!
They also need a large exercise area that they can use at all times – such as a run, secure area in your garden, or space in your home. Large enough for your rabbits to sprint, fully stretch out and stand up without their ears touching the top. This usually works out as at least around 3m x 2m x 1m/10ft x 6ft x 3ft (depending on the size of your rabbit), but we recommend providing much more than this.

Owning indoor rabbits

Indoor rabbits need the same as outdoor rabbits – space, shelter, food, toys, hiding places, a litter tray and digging tray etc.
Non-slip flooring is best so your rabbits don't injure themselves while hopping about.
Ensure house cleaners and sprays are pet friendly and kept out of the way.
Rabbits can jump very high and squeeze through quite narrow spaces -Take this into account when putting things 'out of reach'.
Bunny-proof - it is very natural for a rabbit to chew, and they are likely to chew furniture, skirting boards and door frames that they have access to. If this is a problem, then the best way to avoid it is by keeping your rabbits in areas where they can't get at these things unsupervised and use plastic guards to protect the area. Protect any cables or wires and keep house plants out of paws reach.
Outdoor space – all bunnies, including indoor bunnies need regular access to the outdoors so they get enough daylight and vitamin D, as well as the opportunity to spend time grazing.

Find out more about keeping your pets happy and healthy at pdsa.org.uk

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Rabbit care tips

PDSA Weekly Vet Q&A - 19 March 2024

Your Pets Daily Editor — Wed, 20 Mar 2024 16:00:00 +0000

Dear PDSA Vet, I'm a new hamster owner, and still learning all about proper hamster care! Am I meant to wash my hamster, such as give him a little bath like you would do for a dog? Chloe

Hi Chloe, hamsters are pretty good at keeping themselves clean so shouldn't ever need you to wash them. Water can actually remove the protective oils from your hamster's fur, so it would do more harm than good for your little fur friend. Washing them in water could also lead them to potentially catching a chill, and for such a small animal, can be very dangerous and potentially fatal. A sand bath can be great for a hamster's wellbeing and it can help in keeping their fur clean.

Dear PDSA Vet, I have a Bichon Frise, Maggie with white fur, but around her eyes she has a browny-coloured stain on her fur, is this something to worry about? Thanks, Peter

Hi Peter, it sounds as though Maggie has tear staining around her eyes. It's a very common problem, especially in white coated breeds, like your Bichon Frise. Although it is usually harmless, it is best to have it checked over by your vet to make sure it is normal for Maggie. The easiest way to keep on top of tear stains is to keep hair around your dog's eyes and nose trimmed short. Also be sure to gently remove any dirt, tears or crust that has built up throughout the day. Make sure Maggie is happy and as comfortable as possible and you can use cotton wool pads soaked in plain warm water to remove any daily dirt. Head to: www.pdsa.org.uk/tearstainingindogs to find out more.

Dear PDSA Vet, my Labrador Buddy has recently been diagnosed with arthritis, what are the treatment options available for my old boy? Javinder

Hi Javinder, there are several treatment options available for arthritis, but it would be best to discuss Buddy's individual options with your vet. Possible treatment options include pain relief, such as anti-inflammatory drugs that can help to reduce swelling and pain. Joint supplements aren't a replacement for medications, and don't work for all dogs, but can be used at the same time as most other medicines. Hydrotherapy and physiotherapy can both be useful to support your arthritic dog. Hydrotherapy can be helpful as it is a form of exercise that doesn't put too much strain on joints. For more information about arthritis, head to: www.pdsa.org.uk/arthritis-in-dogs

Dear PDSA Vet, with Easter around the corner we have lots of chocolates in the house. Our cat, Leo is so interested in all of the chocolates, it's hard to keep him off of the kitchen counters and away from them. Any suggestions? Thanks, Portia

Hi Portia, cats are generally curious so will be intrigued by 'new' things in their home. Chocolate contains a substance called theobromine, which is perfectly safe for humans, but toxic for dogs, cats and rabbits. The most severe cases of chocolate poisoning in pets can lead to heart failure, coma and even death. Although this is rare this is why it's really important to keep chocolate safely away from prying paws. Especially during festivities like Easter when there's likely more chocolate than usual in the house. The best solution is to keep chocolate stored away in a secure container, or cupboard that your cat Leo can't get access to. More info about chocolate poisoning can be found: www.pdsa.org.uk/chocolate-poisoning

For more information visit pdsa.org.uk

PDSA is the UK's largest vet charity providing a vital service for pets across the UK whose owners struggle to afford treatment costs for their sick and injured pets. For many vulnerable pets, PDSA is there to help when there is nowhere else for their owners to turn. Support from players of People's Postcode Lottery helps us reach even more pet owners with vital advice and information.

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PDSA Weekly Pet Care Column: Vet Nurse shares spring safety advice for animal lovers

Tom Stone — Wed, 13 Mar 2024 08:00:00 +0000

Springtime has sprung, and with the new time of year comes seasonal dangers. Pet owners have been told to keep an eye on their pets, with PDSA Vet Nurse Nina Downing sharing spring safety messages and advice.

Nina says: "Many of us will be pleased the winter gloom is on the way out, and both flowers blooming and more daylight hours are back.

"Whilst enjoying the new season, it's important for animal lovers to watch out for certain dangers that spring brings.

Tick season

"Most active in warmer months, ticks will begin to make an appearance in spring. They are parasites that embed their heads under the skin and feed on animal or human blood. Safety concerns are because of the diseases they may carry, which include Lyme disease, Anaplasmosis, Babesiosis and tick-borne encephalitis, which can make people and pets very poorly, in extreme cases, in those with a poor immune system these, can be fatal.

"Ticks are commonly found in long grass, woodlands, and areas with lots of sheep or wildlife, so be mindful when heading out for dog walks. Be sure that your dog is up to date with their flea and tick treatment as this will give them some protection as any ticks that latch on should be weakened or killed if you don't find them for a while.

"Check your dog for ticks after walks, as well as checking your cat if your feline friend is a bit of an adventurer - you may find a tick before it has had the chance to attach. They are commonly found on your pet's head, ears, around eyes, armpits, groin and tummy, but you want to give your pet a complete check over just in case. If you find a tick on your pet, it is important to remove it quickly and properly with a tick removing tool.

Poisonous Spring plants

"As temperatures rise, we begin to see spring bulbs bloom. Many beautiful common plants, such as snowdrops, daffodils and tulips are toxic to pets and can lead to them becoming unwell if they eat them.

"Bulbs often have a higher concentration of nutrients than leaves or flowers, so can be even more dangerous for your pet. When gardening, keep your pets away from toxic plants and call your vet straight away if you think your pet has chewed or swallowed any part of it.

Watch out, bees about

"With more flowers blossoming, bumblebees will also make more of an appearance in your garden, so keep your pets away from bees buzzing around to avoid any painful stings. This is when teaching your pet a simple 'leave' command can come in handy!

Countryside walks

"The warmer weather makes longer walks even more appealing. When venturing out into the countryside look out for farm animals, especially those with young lambs, calves or hens with chicks. Keep your dog on a short lead when entering fields to prevent injury and stress to farm animals or your four-legged friend.

New homes for old things this Spring

"Whilst looking after your pets this spring, why not indulge in a form of self-care to look after yourself and have a spring clear out. If you find yourself every morning wading through clothes in your wardrobe, you can't even remember you own, perhaps it's time for a spring clean!

"Your unwanted goods can help save pet's lives – the donated items sold in PDSA's charity shops raise vital funds to provide vet care to pets in need. Should a pet have a springtime emergency and need life-saving help, your spring clear out could contribute to saving that pet's life."

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PDSA Weekly Vet Q&A - 12 March 2024

Your Pets Daily Editor — Tue, 12 Mar 2024 16:00:00 +0000

Dear PDSA Vet, I'm about to adopt another cat, I currently have a 4-year-old cat, Winnie. Winnie of course has food bowls, litter trays around the house, but will I need to double up on everything before our new cat arrives? Thanks, Renata

Hi Renata, a new furry family member, how exciting! Cats can be territorial and taking to another new cat can be challenging. Introducing your cats must be taken slowly. Keep them separate at first, scent swapping using each other's toys or blankets. Then allow them to see each other from another room, before introducing them in their own time. It may be worth using pheromone diffusers to help keep things calm. It's important to provide one litter tray, scratch post, bowl and bed per cat plus one extra. Spread them out around the house to give your cats space, so they can avoid each other, which they are likely to want to do, certainly at first.

Dear PDSA Vet, my 9-year-old Shih Tzu has started shaking his head all the time, throughout the day and night he's often shaking his head, but he won't let me look at his ears, do you know what this could be due to? Damien

Hi Damien, scratching of the ears or shaking their head regularly will likely be a sign of an ear problem. The most common causes for this include skin allergies, ear infections, something stuck down the ear or ear mites. Ear problems cannot only be irritating but in some cases painful. Book an appointment with your vet as they will be able to examine the ear thoroughly and provide him with any treatment that he needs. The sooner the problem is diagnosed, the easier it will be to treat and the sooner your dog will feel relief. For more information on ear problems in dogs, visit: www.pdsa.org.uk/itchyearsandheadshakingdogs

Dear PDSA Vet, my dog Molly keeps sitting down and dragging her bottom along the carpet in the house, do you know why she's started doing this? Thank you, Lorraine

Hello Lorraine, it sounds like Molly is 'scooting', this usually indicates that something is irritating, itchy or painful such as worms, anal gland problems, itchy skin or something stuck around her bottom. Unless the problem is obvious and simple to fix at home (such as something stuck you can gently remove), it's best to consult your vet and have them check Molly over to see what's causing the scooting. If her anal glands are impacted then they may need expressing, which is usually a straightforward procedure that your vet will do for you. Impacted anal glands that are left for too long can become infected and very painful, so I'd recommend that you arrange an appointment with your vet. For more information visit: www.pdsa.org.uk/scooting-in-dogs-advice

Dear PDSA Vet, I bought two dwarf hamsters from a pet shop, and they got on fine to begin with, but I've noticed they seem to be fighting and it's quite scary when they do so! Are they ok to continue living together? Archie

Hi Archie, when hamsters fight, they can cause serious injury so they need to be separated straight away, otherwise aggressive behaviour towards each other could lead to serious injury or even death. Some Dwarf hamsters can be housed together (Syrian and Chinese hamsters must always live alone) and live happily with the right environment and housing conditions, but it doesn't always work out. Hamsters can be very territorial, if they do not have enough space to explore and behave as they would in the wild; burrowing, foraging, exploring and running for miles this can cause frustration and conflict. They'll need enrichment including a large wheel, gnawing branches, multiple shelters and enough material to dig and burrow in. To create the ideal hamster home visit: www.pdsa.org.uk/hamster

For more information visit pdsa.org.uk

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Mother's Day for pet parents – the five signs you are a 'pet mum'

Katie Court — Wed, 06 Mar 2024 12:00:00 +0000

With Mother's Day almost upon us, PDSA are celebrating all the self-confessed 'pet parents' out there.

PDSA Vet Nurse, Nina Downing, said: "Whether you're a cat mum, dog mum or a mum to bunnies, the bond we share with our furry friends is undeniably special. We are very lucky to be able to share our homes and our lives with pets.

"Perhaps your pet is your best friend, and you want to be able to pamper them to show them how much you love them! We've rounded up the five signs that show you are a pet parent to a pampered four-legged friend.

Your pet eats better than you

"Food is often the key to someone's heart and that is no different for a lot of our food-loving furry friends. To show our pets we love them, perhaps you always buy their favourite food or whip up homemade treat recipes, such as delicious pumpkin cookies.

"As we know, diet is a super important factor for our furry companions to live long, healthy lives. As much as we like to treat our pets, the extra snacks should always be in moderation and their daily food allowance reduced by 10%, to avoid a chubby companion.

You don't move, even if you're uncomfortable

"Every pet parent knows how lovely it is for your pet to come and snuggle up with you, sitting on your lap or lying next to you. Even if you start to get uncomfortable – you refuse to move and disturb your pet so they can continue to relax in peace.

You're happy to show pics of your pet to anyone

"Perhaps you love to show off precious pics of your beloved pet to everyone - and why not? Most pet owners can relate to having hundreds of photos of their pet in their camera roll!

You have conversations with your pet

"Pets can be the perfect companions, always there no matter what and helping combat any lonely days. Lots of animal lovers will indulge in conversations with their four-legged friends, and whilst they can't chat back to us – we can tell from their body language they are listening. They may even showcase tell-tale signs of love back, whether this be a happy waggy tail from your dog, or a gentle lick from your cat.

Your social life involves your pet

"Whether it's working your social calendar around your companion or simply bringing them along to events. Your social life has to cater to your pet, and why shouldn't it? They are an adorable member of your family, and there's nothing wrong with planning your social life around your pet.

"Just make sure that they are happy and comfortable, wherever you take them. Or if you're hosting in your home, make sure your pet has a safe quiet space they can go off to, should their social battery be running low, and they would prefer some alone time."

Pets do bring so much joy to our lives, so it's important we meet all of their needs too. For more information about caring for your pet, head to PDSA's website.

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PDSA Weekly Vet Q&A - 5 March 2024

Your Pets Daily Editor — Tue, 05 Mar 2024 16:00:00 +0000

Dear PDSA Vet, I recently got a puppy, I've named Pumpkin, since bringing her home she's got some kind of cough, it sounds like a bit of a choking noise but she's definitely not choking on anything. It's gone on for a few days now, should I be worried? She's only 10-weeks old. Pasha

Hi Pasha, from what you've described it sounds as though Pumpkin may have kennel cough, it usually sounds like a dry hacking cough. Most dogs stay otherwise quite well with kennel cough, but puppies, older dogs, and poorly dogs can develop more serious symptoms such as a reduced appetite, low energy and a high temperature. Kennel cough can spread between dogs, so it's best to keep Pumpkin away from other dogs and public spaces. As Pumpkin is so young, it's a good idea to have her checked by a vet if she has a severe cough or has been coughing for more than a few days. When arranging your appointment with the vet, make them aware that Pumpkin has been coughing as they may ask you to wait outside until you are called in to prevent spreading kennel cough to other dogs in the waiting room.

Dear PDSA Vet, my Cavapoo, Arlo has awfully smelling breath. He has dental chews, but the smell is really quite strong. Is there anything else I can do to help with it? Thanks, Sally

Hi Sally, just as it's important for humans to take care of their teeth, dogs need their teeth taking care of too. Dental disease is a very common health problem for dogs and can usually be prevented through keeping your dog's teeth clean. Dental disease is more common in older dogs and certain breeds can be more prone to it. We would recommend a visit to your vet as the smell may mean Arlo has some dental disease. Your vet may recommend that Arlo needs a dental, where he comes into the surgery for an anaesthetic, scale and polish with extractions of decaying teeth if necessary. Once he has recovered your vet can advise you on teeth cleaning, but if that's not an option, then a change of diet, oral gels or other dental products may help.

Dear PDSA Vet, we had a pair of rabbits until recently, one of them sadly passed away. Our remaining Rabbit, Snowdrop, seems to be acting strange and we're worried about her. Do rabbits need to live alongside other rabbits, or will she be ok living alone now? Jasper

Hello Jasper, I'm so sorry for your loss. It may be Snowdrop is acting strangely as she can't understand where her bunny friend has gone – however any unusual behaviour should be checked by your vet just to make sure there isn't anything else going on. Rabbits thrive from living in groups or pairs, and without a fellow rabbit friend, they can become lonely, stressed or depressed. Many rescue centres have rabbits that are desperate for a kind, loving home and will support you in matching your rabbit with a suitable new friend. More information about owning rabbits in pairs or groups can be found here: https://www.pdsa.org.uk/rabbit-company-advice

Dear PDSA Vet, my Golden Retriever, George is an old boy now, he's definitely reached the 'golden oldie' stage. Now he's not as spritely, how can I keep him stay fit and active without him overdoing it? Rashid

Hi Rashid, it's important to keep George active in order to help him stay healthy. The best way you can do this is by keeping exercise frequent but gentle and within his comfort levels. Little and often is best as joints get stiffer with age. If George is not keen on longer walks anymore, just make them a bit shorter and let him enjoy the slower pace. It's important he still makes it outdoors every day to sniff, stretch his legs and get some fresh air. Your vet can advise you on whether George could benefit from supplements to help his joints or medication to ease aches and pains, which will in turn improve his quality of life. Indoor games can help his body and mind, puzzle toys are a great way to help George keep alert if he feels like it.

For more information visit pdsa.org.uk

PDSA is the UK's largest vet charity providing a vital service for pets across the UK whose owners struggle to afford treatment costs for their sick and injured pets. For many vulnerable pets, PDSA is there to help when there is nowhere else for their owners to turn. Support from players of People's Postcode Lottery helps us reach even more pet owners with vital advice and information.

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Dental disease in dogs

Bad breath in dogs

PDSA

The importance of spaying cats

Katie Court — Tue, 27 Feb 2024 12:00:00 +0000

February marks Spay & Neuter Awareness Month, an international event that encourages pet owners to get their pets neutered. Leading vet charity PDSA is using the occasion to share one-year-old Olive's story and remind cat owners the importance of neutering their feline friends.

PDSA Vet Nurse, Nina Downing, explains: "For females, spaying involves removing the cat's ovaries and often their uterus (womb). Doing so not only stops unwanted pregnancies, it also prevents or reduces the risk of several life-threatening illnesses, including cancer of the womb and ovaries, as well as pyometra, a very serious and potentially fatal womb infection."

Olive's story

One-year-old cat Olive was rushed into her local PDSA Pet Hospital for emergency surgery after her owner noticed worrying symptoms.

Marie, (35), explained: "Olive is usually a quirky little cat with a big personality. If she's not snuggling up to us, she's running around doing "zoomies". So when she became unsettled, we knew something wasn't right.

"My 10-year-old daughter, Tiffany-Rose, adores Olive - they're very close. But whilst she was giving her usual fuss, she noticed that Olive wasn't acting her normal self and wondered if something might be wrong. When Tiffany-Rose told me I went to check on her, and that's when I saw discharge coming from her back end, which concerned me.

"I quickly rang the team at my local PDSA Pet Hospital. When I explained her symptoms they asked me to bring her in straight away."

When the vet examined Olive, they were concerned about her symptoms, so she was admitted for further tests. PDSA Head Nurse, Kay Brough, explained: "When Olive arrived, she seemed okay in herself, however discharge from the vulva area can be a tell-tale sign of a uterus infection. We admitted her for an ultrasound scan to have a look at her womb.

"The scan confirmed the diagnosis of pyometra so we put her on a fluid drip, prescribed some antibiotics and gave her some pain relief to keep her comfortable whilst we prepared for surgery.

"Pyometra, sometimes known as "pyo", is an infection inside the uterus (womb) that frequently leads to sepsis if not treated promptly. Any unneutered female cat or dog is at risk of developing a pyometra. Symptoms can include discharge like Olive experienced, bloating of the abdomen, drinking more and peeing more, and a change in their energy levels."

Surgery to remove her infected womb took place and she was given time to recover before Marie was contacted to come and collect her.

Marie said: "It was scary how quickly it all happened, and had it not been for my daughter recognising Olive wasn't her usual self, I'm not sure what position we would have been in now. Ultimately, PDSA saved her life.

"Thankfully, Olive was able to come home that night. The vet told me that the surgery was successful with no complications, and she should recover well at home with us. After two visits to check she was healing, we were given the all clear and she's now back to her normal nosey and affectionate self."

Category

Cats

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Spay & Neuter Awareness Month

PDSA

Pyometra

Should I get my cats spayed

Should I get my cat neutered