1st October 2019
Prince Albert Dieresorg/Animal Welfare, a tiny organisation made up of volunteer residents of this small Karoo town, recently completed the EberVet Training Academy’s Animal Welfare Assistant training course. The course, hosted by veteran veterinary nurse Sr Hilda Mills, was held over two days in Prince Albert. Day One was devoted to theory. Participants learned about […]
30th September 2019
How to keep your pet’s weight under control is easier than you may think. However, before tackling your pet’s diet, you’ll need to tackle your own perception of what ‘overweight’ is because it’s a fact that 9 out of 10 of pet owners don’t see their pets as overweight while the reality is that more than […]
24th September 2019
Dandruff on your dog isn’t something you might feel comfortable with taking to the vet. She’ll think you’re fussing about nothing, that you’re making a big deal about a silly cosmetic issue. Not true. Dandruff-like debris on your dog’s coat could be the sign of a condition that goes beyond simple cosmetics. And if it is […]
20th September 2019
The risk of rabies in South Africa is particularly high. It is endemic in our country. Rabies is the deadliest disease on earth. It’s fatality rate is 99.9%, with more than 95% of deaths occuring in Africa, the Middle East and Asia. Dogs, and not farm animals as we like to believe, pose the greatest risk […]
20th September 2019
Pigs as pets may seem like the best idea in the world when you’re confronted with a tiny pink bundle of snout and hooves just a few days old. But pigs are not the easiest animals to handle, says our veterinarian Dr Adri Rossouw, so consider very carefully the implications of pig ownership before adopting […]
18th September 2019
Raw food diets may be all the rage but are they good for our pets? We live in an age of intense nutritional awareness with more of us than ever before trying to make informed choices about what we eat in order to stay healthy and live longer. Given that our pets are family too, […]
10th September 2019
We may look forward to summer with great enthusiasm but for our pets summer can also bring misery. To help them enjoy the season as much as we do here are 5 things every pet owner should consider before the heat sets in: 5 summer essentials Grooming. As soon as the weather warms, winter fur […]
27th August 2019
Ear mites in pets are unpleasant for pet owners (they usually result in smelly ears) and sore and uncomfortable for pets. Unfortunately, not all pets display obvious symptoms so vigilance is necessary to detect and then treat them. Ear mites affect both dogs and cats, though they are more frequent in cats. Ear mites in […]
16th August 2019
Feline Leukaemia Virus (FeLV) is widespread in South Africa and cats infected with it are predisposed to other illnesses and infections that could kill them. They’re also a danger to other cats. Here’s what you need to know to protect your cat: What is Feline Leukaemia Virus (FeLV)? Feline leukaemia is a virus that infects […]
15th August 2019
Deworming pets is generally not done often enough, probably because no pet owner likes to think of their dog or cat having worms. However, the reality is that no matter how much you pamper your pet their chances of carrying worms is highly likely. Pets can harbour several kinds of worms, some of them deadly, […]
13th August 2019
Diabetes in cats (diabetes mellitus) has become an increasingly common condition. It often occurs in cats that are overweight and/or older. As in humans, cats have a pancreas that should produce insulin to regulate the sugar (glucose) in their bodies from their diet. Diabetes in cats occurs when the feline body is not able to […]
12th August 2019
Understanding a senior cat’s needs is essential if we want to prolong their lives comfortably and happily. These top 10 tips will help you do just that. 1. Schedule regular wellness check-ups Develop a close relationship with your cat’s veterinarian while your cat is still healthy. This way they get to know your cat and […]
6th August 2019
Mandela Day 2019 was a mixed bag for the EberVet Group but with one goal in mind: bettering the lives of pets from impoverished homes. Weeks before the day, our EberVet Vetshops started collecting pet food donations which were then either re-bagged into smaller bags for handing out in impoverished areas, or donated directly to […]
9th July 2019
Cat myths abound, possibly because of their innate self-reliance and resilience they’re often misunderstood. Understanding cat behaviour, and a cat’s needs, are essential if your cat is to live a healthy and happy life. Myth #1 Cats don’t need company. Not true. Though some people believe cats are happy being left alone for several days […]
2nd July 2019
Pet ownership remains one of the most important sources of mental, emotional and physical health for the elderly yet it is often overlooked or ignored as a benefit. Few residential homes for the elderly allow pets yet global research shows that pet ownership not only counteracts depression, it also encourages physical activity and stimulates the […]
28th June 2019
Winter hazards are everywhere; from plummeting temperatures to heating appliances that may cause burns. Pet owners need to be vigilant, especially with sudden cold snaps. Our friends at Rogz Pet Insurance have identified the following dangers for pet parents to watch out for: 1 Cold Temperatures. Pets can succumb to frost bite or hypothermia in […]
25th June 2019
Your pets’ eyes are usually appreciated for way they gently beguile you into sharing a treat. What few pet owners realise is that pets’ eyes are at risk of many of the same eye conditions or diseases that people have: surface scratches (ulcers), pinkeye (conjunctivitis) and increased fluid pressure (glaucoma) to name a few. Most […]
25th June 2019
Animal hoarders hit the news headlines from time to time, usually when an animal welfare organisation raids a home that has multiple pets living in appalling conditions. The pets may be confiscated and sometimes there is court action against the owner. But how exactly is an animal hoarder defined? It’s not necessarily the lady with […]
20th June 2019
My dog is limping but he’s healthy. That’s a refrain that vets hear time and again. What pet owners don’t realise is that limping can be a sign of arthritis but because pets are good at hiding their pain, you may not be aware of it until the disease has progressed. My dog is limping. […]
14th June 2019
Cat snuffles is a common cat ailment usually characterised by sneezing, watery eyes and nose and ulceration of nose and tongue, but the cause could be any one of several viruses. Cat snuffles: what causes it The most important virus associated with cat snuffles is the herpes virus. It causes an infection of the upper […]
29th May 2019
When cats wee on your furniture, bed or in the bath, there’s a very good reason. They’re trying to tell you something. Punishment won’t stop their behaviour; it’ll only make it worse. But understanding why cats wee in inappropriate places can help you change this unpleasant habit. One of the first things to figure out […]
27th May 2019
Cancer in pets isn’t something we readily consider when taking on a new pet. We tend to think of cancer as a ‘human’ disease but like humans, pets are living longer and are at increased risk of cancer. In fact, one in three pets will get cancer. Types of cancer Cancer in pets can occur […]
17th May 2019
Dandruff is not something we generally associate with pets and if you do notice it, perhaps you’ve felt silly bringing it up with your vet. But you should. Dandruff-like debris could be the sign of a condition that goes beyond simple cosmetics. And if it is ordinary dandruff, there are things you can do at […]
15th May 2019
Cat flaps are brilliant for flat dwellers and people who don’t like to leave windows open for security reasons. But not all cats can get the hang of how to use them. American animal behaviourist Dr Sophia Yin has these training tips. Remember, that to train any pet to use a cat flap, patience and […]
14th May 2019
Lumps and bumps on your dog or cat often appear as your pet ages. But because they’re small (at first) and don’t appear to be causing your pet any discomfort, you ignore them. “Oh, it’s just a little wart,” you might say, or “It’s just a funny little fatty thing on his tummy. Really no […]
10th May 2019
Animal welfare is one of the toughest jobs on the planet, demanding endless physical and emotional resources. These must be replenished, says Hannah Shaw, kitten rescuer and animal welfare educator. The welfare worker who neglects their own emotional needs risks burnout, and a burnt out welfare volunteer is of no help to the animals they’re […]
9th May 2019
Winter can be tough on pets, particularly as they age. Just like humans, they suffer arthritis that causes significant pain. But there are things you can do to help ease their discomfort. It’s all about preparation. Here are our 6 winter must-haves for healthy, happy dogs and cats: A warm and comfortable bed. Sore joints […]
6th May 2019
Pregnancy in pets necessitates special care and attention, and additional veterinary visits. Here’s our vet’s guide to how to care for a pregnant pet, and her puppies or kittens. Pregnancy basics DOGS go on heat from the age of 7-9 months for 2-3 weeks. They are fertile in the last week of the heat. Their […]
30th April 2019
First aid is as important for pets in a medical emergency as it is for humans. You’ll need to stabilise your pet before taking it to the vet so setting aside a pets’ first aid kit will greatly improve your responsiveness in the event of an emergency. Check your first aid kit every six months […]
30th April 2019
Adopting a puppy or kitten is a big responsibility, not to be taken lightly. Your pet will likely live for at least 10 years so before taking him or her into your home, consider carefully whether your current lifestyle, and your future lifestyle, can cope. Other important considerations before adopting include: The breed of the […]
29th April 2019
Uniondale may be a small town but there were plenty of big hearts at our first spayathon here. Tucked in a picturesque valley between passes, Uniondale suffers all the economic woes of a town dependent on agriculture yet there was such incredible generosity towards our spayathon that we were able to spay and neuter 130 […]
18th April 2019
If your dog licks your face you might think it’s terribly cute; but others might hate the idea. Why do dogs do this, and is there anything you can do to stop it? Dog licks: it’s in their genes Blame evolution! Dog face licking has evolved from the wolf puppy behaviour of licking the mouths […]
9th April 2019
An anxious dog can be difficult to live with but there are things you can do to help calm him/her down. Before you try them though remember you’ll need to be patient, and that punishment never works to alleviate anxiety. In fact, it only makes it worse. Work patiently and kindly and you’ll be amazed […]
2nd April 2019
Pet emergencies can be terrifying for pet owners because very few of us know what to do when they happen. Instead, we panic and in our distress, fail to take action fast enough. What is essential is that you get your pet to the vet as soon as you can, and call ahead if possible […]
1st April 2019
We all want to save money on vet’s bills and there are some simple things you can do that will certainly cut costs in the long-term. Here are our top 10 money savers: Do your research So your children want a dog and you want a cat and before you know it, your house is […]
29th March 2019
Children living with pets are emotionally, psychologically and possibly even physiologically better off than those living without. That’s the conclusion of a wealth of international studies, and personal accounts from parents. “Nothing less than alchemy is involved when animals and children get together, and the resulting magic has healing properties that work well,” wrote psychologist […]
29th March 2019
Choosing a pet for a child is not to be taken lightly. There are several important considerations that must be discussed by the family before a pet is adopted. Parental involvement, open discussion, and planning are necessary to help make pet ownership a positive experience for everyone. It is essential that parents carefully consider all […]
28th March 2019
Pet insurance is one of those out-of-pocket expenses that most pet owners hesitate to commit to. Many see it as a questionable cost so why is it a good idea to consider it? Accidents happen, and pets fall ill no matter how careful or diligent you are. If your pet is insured you will be […]
25th March 2019
We’re big fans of all four-legged creatures which is why we were delighted when Eseltjiesrus Donkey Sanctuary offered us another two donkeys to adopt. Welcome to the EberVet family Alice and Blondie! Alice is now 7½ years old and if she had been a working donkey in bad circumstances, would have developed sores, exhaustion and […]
25th March 2019
Annual checkups may seem unnecessary if your pet looks healthy but there are myriad reasons why they’re essential. And the added bonus: they’re a great cost-saver. Why does my pet need an annual checkup? From birth to the age of 7, all pets should see the vet at least once a year – whether or […]
19th March 2019
Warning signs of pain and discomfort aren’t always easy to spot in our pets. Though they are sentient beings that experience the same discomforts we do; cold, heat, hunger and pain they hide their pain far more effectively than humans. That’s because in the wild, an ill or injured animal is vulnerable to attack, so […]
10th March 2019
Litter tray misses can be frustrating and unpleasant for the cat owner who has to clean up after their cat but for the cat, it could be even worse. Messing outside the litter tray could be a cat’s call for help. Diabetes, early kidney failure, and other health problems can be the cause of your […]
8th March 2019
Any pet owner who’s had trouble with fleas on a dog or cat knows how quickly an infestation of these pint-sized pests can spiral out of control. But how does it go from one flea to hundreds–even thousands–so quickly? Here’s a breakdown of the flea life cycle from egg to adult: 1. Egg Eggs are […]
7th March 2019
International Women’s Day commemorates the wonderful achievements of women around the world but we are hijacking this important anniversary for our female pets! Here are 4 gifts you can give your girl dog or cat (in addition to love) that will make their lives happier and healthier. Sterilisation This is the single most important gift […]
1st March 2019
Anal glands are something most pet owners ignore until the terrible smell forces them to see a vet in a hurry. It’s important to know what these glands are and how to deal with them before they become a problem. What are anal glands? Dogs and cats have two scent glands on either side of […]
1st March 2019
Bones for your dog go together like fish and chips, right? In every doggy cartoon and every book you’ve read since childhood, the dog has a bone to chew. They’ve become so synonymous that it is sometimes difficult to see why they could be a problem but they are. Myths and legends Many people believe […]
28th February 2019
‘Help, my cat is keeping me awake all night’ is a common refrain from cat owners. We’ve all experienced that persistent paw tapping in the early hours of the morning as our feline friend tries to wake us. Or the incessant meowing or knocking items off furniture to get attention. It’s infuriating, no matter how […]
27th February 2019
Kittens love to play; tumbling, jumping, running, rolling… they just can’t keep still. Turning your home into a feline wonderland not only keeps your cat amused, it keeps brain and body healthy too. Let him climb and hunt like the wild thing he thinks he is. You love your fuzzball and know he needs to […]
27th February 2019
As a longtime veterinarian, I’ve had to deal with grief. Grief when a pet receives a bad diagnosis and grief when that pet’s life comes to an end. Recently, I wrote about how grief and love go hand in hand and how we should embrace grief as being a part of love. I believe that, […]
25th February 2019
Sterilisation could save your pet’s life because it’s not just about preventing kittens and puppies; the longer a pet (male or female) remains unsterilised the higher their risk of cancers. If you have a female dog or cat Your pet is at high risk of mammary (breast) cancer if she is not sterilised before her […]
18th February 2019
Congestive heart failure in animals is not something most pet owners understand right off; you’re not veterinarians and discussing cardiac disease can be like speaking a foreign language. Your veterinarian knows you didn’t go to veterinary school, so when it comes to topics like congestive heart failure, the fancy clinical terms might not make any […]
15th February 2019
Common household items that are poisonous to pets include everything from foodstuffs to vitamins. These are the top 10 items you need to keep out of your pet’s reach. Chocolate Chocolate tops the list—and for good reason! Chocolate is prevalent in our homes, and unfortunately, just as popular with dogs as it is with us. […]
15th February 2019
Diabetes in cats is a relatively common condition but it is quite manageable and your cat can lead a good quality of life. Here’s what you need to know: What is diabetes? Diabetes mellitus is a condition that develops when the body doesn’t produce enough insulin or the insulin that is produced isn’t sufficient enough […]
7th February 2019
Fat cats may look cute and cuddly but the reality is that if a cat is just a kilogram or so over its ideal weight, it’s at risk for developing some serious medical conditions. When a cat is overweight or obese, it’s not a question of if it will develop a related illness, but rather […]
7th February 2019
Wobblers disease, or cervical spondylomyelopathy (CSM), is a disease of the cervical spine (at the neck) that is commonly seen in large and giant-breed dogs like Great Danes, Rottweilers, Dobermans and Bassets. It is characterised by compression of the spinal cord and/or nerve roots, which leads to neurological signs and/or neck pain. The term Wobblers disease […]
6th February 2019
Dog parks are a popular feature of South African suburbs. They’re green spaces where dogs can enjoy exercise and socialising with other dogs and people. Dog parks can be wonderful places, but they aren’t meant for everybody. Let’s look at why this is and also review some etiquette. Dog parks when they’re good Everyone loves […]
5th February 2019
How to keep your cat healthy from birth to old age need not involve expensive veterinary fees; nor is it particularly complicated. The key to good health is prevention and the earlier you start, the easier – and cheaper – it is to keep your cat healthy well into his senior years. How to protect […]
4th February 2019
My male dog has recently started urinating in the house. He urinates in the same spot, lifting his leg on a cabinet I only recently bought. He is doggy-door trained so he is able to go outside to pee whenever he wants. I have cleaned both the cabinet and floor with bleach and vinegar and […]
30th January 2019
Welcoming a donkey into the EberVet Petcare Group is always a special occasion, but this one is particularly special because Popeye’s story is one with a very happy ending. The EberVet Petcare Group sponsors seven donkeys at Eseltjiesrus Donkey Sanctuary in McGregor but recently one of our favourites, Thabo, had to be euthanased. Annemarie at […]
29th January 2019
Thyroid problems in pets is quite common, though how cats and dogs are affected can be quite different. Dogs commonly suffer from hypothyroidism https://www.ebervet.com/hypothyroidism-i…-to-recognise-it/ while in cats, hyperthyroidism, or high hormone levels, is more common. The most obvious difference between the two is that dogs with hypothyroidism become lethargic and put on weight, while cats with […]
24th January 2019
Hypothyroidism in dogs is a relatively common condition. Some breeds, like Golden Retrievers and Dobermans, are at higher risk as are middle-aged dogs and dogs that have been sterilised. At Country Animal Clinic our resident dog Bobo had been gaining a significant amount of weight over the last year (7kg) and her coat had become […]
24th January 2019
How your kitten uses the litter box from an early age will set him up for adulthood, so a bit of effort in training him young will ensure the best outcome for you both. Here’s the good news: your kitten is already hardwired to make litter training easy, so it’s up to you to encourage […]
22nd January 2019
Pregnancy and pets are not mutually exclusive, despite some scare stories. If our vets are prepared to have babies while living in homes filled with pets, you can be assured the dangers are minimal. Here’s what our vet moms, Dr Susan van Niekerk of EberVet Pet Clinic and Dr Ingrid de Wet of Country Animal […]
17th January 2019
Cruciate ligament injury is one of the most common ailments encountered in dogs, particularly dogs that are overweight. Certain breeds are also at higher risk, like Labrador Retrievers, Newfoundlands, German Shepherds, Rottweilers and Golden Retrievers. What is a cruciate ligament? The cruciate ligaments are two fibrous bands in each knee that connect the femur (bone above […]
14th January 2019
Cat’s claws are essential to their wellbeing. They’re used for many different activities, including scratching, climbing and marking territory. Cat’s claws are retractable, staying hidden until a cat needs to use them. They also grow continually. Outdoor cats keep their nails short by climbing and scratching on trees, among other outdoor activities. Indoor cats often […]
14th January 2019
Ringworm is something most pet owners fear because it can be passed on to humans. The good news is that it’s not as gross as it sounds. The not-so-good news is that getting rid of it requires a lot of cleaning. But if you work with your veterinarian, your pet can get better quickly. What […]
13th January 2019
Betty’s Bay fires severely injured a young Grysbok, who was found by Wynland firemen and brought to EberVet’s Country Animal Clinic for emergency treatment. The tiny Grysbok, who has not yet reached adulthood, was handed over to paramedics Wardi de Wet and Riaz Arendse of ER24 who drove him in their ambulance to EberVet’s Country […]
11th January 2019
Every cat owner wants a happy cat and the best way to ensure that is to build positive associations for your cat in kittenhood. Kittens learn and develop a big part of their adult personality by 16 weeks of age so if you want a happy cat that takes life in joyous stride, the clock […]
11th January 2019
House training a puppy is a minefield of good intentions, frustrations, misinformation and myth and doing it incorrectly can have serious long term implications for you and your puppy. The good news about house training Your dog’s wired to make house training possible. But it’s up to you to set her up for success. Wild […]
6th January 2019
Your bird’s pulling out his feathers but you don’t know why. Feather pulling or picking is a common and frustrating problem in birds. Some just nibble the ends of their breast feathers, while others tear their skin, creating large open sores. Any bird can feather pick, but psittacines, such as parrots and parakeets, are the […]
4th January 2019
When welcoming a new bird into your home you’ll want to make sure his environment is as safe, comfortable and stimulating as possible. Follow these tips for a happy, healthy feathered friend: Create a comfy haven for your bird A roomy cage where he can stretch his wings is essential. Avoid tall, narrow cages which […]
3rd January 2019
Your cat’s gaining weight. Her tummy sways when she walks and when she lies down, she spreads. It must be her metabolism, or that she sleeps more than she used to, or you should never have had her spayed… Sorry, but these are all excuses. The truth is that when our pets gain weight it’s […]
3rd January 2019
Walking your dog should be fun, not frightening for you and your dog. And the more pleasurable it is, the more likely you are to get into a daily habit, which is essential for your dog’s health. Why should I walk my dog? Like humans, dogs need encouragement to exercise. When they’re puppies they’re playful […]
2nd January 2019
Whisker stress may explain why your cat pulls her food out of the bowl before eating it, or is being more fussy than usual about her food. What are whiskers used for? The whiskers on your cat’s face are sensitive feeling organs that cats use to gather information about their environment. Cat whiskers collect and send […]
2nd January 2019
Have you heard the claim that purebred dogs have more health problems than mixed breed dogs? Is it true, or is it just a myth? How to identify a purebred A dog is defined as purebred if he or she has been registered with a Kennel Club and has papers to prove that the mother […]
28th December 2018
New Year Resolutions are seldom kept and often broken so instead of making them for yourself this year, make a list for your pets. Owning a pet (or two or three) is a major responsibility but sometimes when life gets crazy-busy we forget those things that are essential to our pet’s health and wellbeing. Here’s […]
21st December 2018
Homemade holiday treats will help keep your dog from the table begging for scraps. Sharing your sugary biscuits, Christmas cake or chocolate treats could endanger his life; try this dog-friendly recipe instead. Ingredients: 2 cups fresh sweet potato puree 1 egg 1/2 cup oats 3 cups whole wheat flour 3 tablespoons all natural peanut butter […]
19th December 2018
Holiday emergencies when your usual veterinarian is on leave can be a nightmare. Being aware of possible dangers and what to do should they occur will save you – and your pet – a lot of heartache and anxiety. Here are 5 holiday emergencies to watch out for: 1. Heatstroke This is a frighteningly common […]
22nd November 2018
Snakebites are a common summer danger to pets. Here’s what you need to know to keep yours sake
20th November 2018
Festive food that your dog can safely eat isn’t as difficult to find as you imagine. Everyone knows that chocolate is a definite no-no and that baked goods like mince pies are also not on the menu. But your dog can safely sit by your side at the Christmas table if your meal includes the […]
15th November 2018
Parvovirus, a highly contagious and often fatal viral disease that affects dogs, is spreading like wildfire through the Cape. One hospital which usually treats around 14 parvo cases a month, has already seen 45 patients this month. The disease is prevented by vaccination. Puppies are particularly vulnerable to the virus and it’s chances of surviving […]
14th November 2018
Stress-free is what every cat owner wishes when it comes to taking their feline friend to the vet. But not all cats play along. However, there are a few key things you can do to make the experience less stressful for you both, and more positive for your feline friend. 1. Regular preventative check-ups. A […]
2nd November 2018
Are you the right owner for that dog you’re smitten with? Adopting a dog is something most of us do at some point in our lives, and usually because we’re beguiled by the cuteness of a puppy. You may adopt a dog as a Christmas or birthday gift for your children, or because you’re looking […]
31st October 2018
Every pet owners wants a hassle-free holiday but not every pet travels well. If you want, or need, to take your dog or cat with you this holiday break, early planning is essential. Here’s what to consider: Are you travelling by car or by plane? Different modes of transport require different carriers; airlines can be […]
30th October 2018
Osteoarthritis is commonly associated with elderly humans but it is also relatively common in pets, particularly as they age. It is a chronic, degenerative joint disease that makes movement difficult and painful. Though it is more common in cats and dogs aged 6 and upwards, younger animals can also be affected. Studies suggest that up […]
24th October 2018
Flies emerge in their droves the moment the weather warms. For us, they’re a nuisance around food and bins but for our pets, and especially dogs, they can lead to serious injury, infection and even death of tissue. Flies carry bacteria and are capable of causing not only damage to your pet’s body, but also […]
24th October 2018
Feline Leukaemia Virus is highly contagious and easily spread, though cats who are infected may show no signs of the disease for months or even years. The disease slowly weakens the immune system, exposing the cat to other life-threatening ailments like kidney disease and cancer. Here are 5 important things you should know about Feline […]
24th October 2018
Does your dog love to swim? Does he or she plunge into the pool at every opportunity? Some dogs, like Labradors, are genetically drawn to water whereas others are either afraid of it or find swimming very difficult, like Pugs and Corgis. Whether your dog swims in your pool at home or plunges into the […]
23rd October 2018
Keeping cats cool seems like a silly thing to do as most cat owners know how much cats love to laze in the sun. But the reality is that when temperatures soar, cats are at risk of heatstroke and should be protected where possible. Here are some steps you can take to keep your cats […]
23rd October 2018
Heatstroke (hyperthermia) occurs more easily than most dog owners realise and it can be deadly unless your dog receives immediate veterinary treatment. Unfortunately, the most common causes of heatstroke are related to owner neglect, usually unintentional so read on to find out how you can protect your dog and what to do if it happens. […]
22nd October 2018
Constipation in dogs is more common in older dogs but all ages and breeds can suffer from it. It should never be ignored as extended periods of distress can cause serious health concerns. Constipation signs and symptoms A constipated dog, especially if it is well-trained and evacuates at regular intervals daily, is described as being […]
19th October 2018
Walking your dog should be a pleasurable and health-giving activity enjoyed by you and your dog. Unfortunately, for many dog owners, a walk is often an out-of-control disaster zone. To help you control the chaos of leashed walks, consider the following: Leashes Fixed-length leash: A standard, fixed-length leash is an absolute must because it’s the […]
10th October 2018
Tick bite fever is a relatively common illness in South Africa, particularly as the weather warms and ticks become more plentiful. Known by its Latin name, Ehrlichiosis, this infectious disease first gained attention as a significant disease when military dogs returning from Vietnam during the 1970’s were found to be infected. The disease seems to […]
26th September 2018
Vegan diets are kinder to the environment and to farm animals, but is it healthy to restrict a dog exclusively to veganism? Before considering a vegan diet for your best friend, it is important to understand the potential benefits and drawbacks. Regardless of the diet you feed your dog, experts stress the importance of consulting […]
26th September 2018
If you’re planning to take your dog along on your next holiday, there are some important preparations that need to be made before you leave home. Protect your dog against parasites. Your own garden may be parasite-free (or so you think) but if your holiday includes hiking, visiting nature reserves or walks in parks and […]
26th September 2018
Senior cats, like people, need more focussed healthcare and attention as they age. Most vets consider cats ‘senior’ from the age of 7 and will recommend six-monthly wellness checkups rather than the usual annual veterinary exam. This is because cats are very good at hiding illness and the signs and symptoms may be so subtle […]
25th September 2018
Kennel Cough (also known as canine infectious tracheobronchitis) is a highly contagious respiratory disease. Dogs commonly contract kennel cough where large numbers of dogs gather, like boarding kennels, daycare facilities, in parks and at dog shows. Kennel cough is spread through airborne droplets, direct contact (e.g., touching noses), or contaminated surfaces (including water/food bowls). It’s […]
17th September 2018
Food guarding is the term given to the habit some pets have of being aggressive or defensive when eating their food, or chewing on a bone or a toy. This is also known as food aggression. While the exact cause of food guarding has not been determined, one theory suggests that puppies fed from a […]
