Diet-Dog

Whatever the true reasons for and nature of climate change, it seems we need to get used to the concept of warmer summers and milder winters. One severe consequence of this will be an increase of parasites such as fleas and ticks. They will breed for longer periods and more will survive over winter. Not a happy prospect for dogs and cats!

Over the years in my veterinary practice I have found that some pets seem very prone to picking up parasites, whilst others rarely have any 'visitors'. I have come to the conclusion that healthy adult dogs and cats with good immune systems who are fed a healthy diet are much less likely to suffer from fleas and ticks. To help ensure pets stay free from parasites, keep them healthy by paying attention to:

Some hints to help pets stay safe and well in Summertime

Following the miserable Winter we have had, it’s hard to remember that we do sometimes get hot summery weather in the UK, but we do and here are a few hints to help pets stay safe and well in Summertime.

• Check regularly for fleas and ticks on the skin, and look out for adders when walking in country areas.
• If you are leaving your pet at home for several hours, make sure there is a cool room or area available – leave a fan on if necessary, and also plenty of water.
• If you are leaving

Hints and Tips for Itchy Skin - Richard Allport

As the weather warms up and summer is approaching, every veterinary practice will soon be seeing increasing numbers of dogs and cats with itchy skin. This is partly because fleas and other parasites begin to abound but also because skin allergic reactions become more intense. 

Some of the most common allergies, especially in dogs, are to grass and tree pollens. Whilst these can cause symptoms similar to hay fever, more often in dogs the allergic reaction is most obvious in the skin. This often causes not just itchy skin, but hot, red, itchy ears; itchy feet which are constantly nibbled and chewed; and