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
Dogs and snakebites are a common problem in summer as temperatures begin to soar. There is far more snake activity and thousands of pets end up at veterinary clinics with snakebite. Cats are highly intelligent and very quick and seldom get bitten, even though they often catch snakes and bring live ones into the house. […]
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 […]
14th September 2018
Canine distemper virus infects dogs and other mammals, including ferrets, but does not infect cats. Dogs of all ages are susceptible if not previously immunised, although infection is most common in puppies less than 16 weeks of age. Vaccination is your dog’s best protection. There is currently no available medication that can destroy the virus that […]
13th September 2018
What an absolute joy to be able to send 100 cats and dogs home from this mass outreach clinic, sterilised and vaccinated against rabies. In addition to their medical care, all animals were sent home with food parcels and some with blankets, leads and collars. Five veterinarians from EberVet Pet Clinic, EberVet Community Veterinary Care, […]
10th September 2018
Pets need their teeth cleaned just as humans do. Few pet owners diligently follow this practice and that’s why 85 percent of all pets have gum disease and infection by the time they are 3 years of age. Like humans, if teeth aren’t cleaned regularly periodontal disease (gum disease) occurs. It starts when bacteria combine […]
10th September 2018
Emergencies are impossible to predict and sometimes difficult to read, especially when it comes to a pet. Most pet owners will wait several hours, or sometimes days, before taking a pet to the vet believing that whatever ails their dog or cat may resolve itself, or can be helped with a bit of TLC at […]
3rd September 2018
Losing a pet is one of the toughest things any pet owner will go through. It is especially tough if you have to take the decision to have your pet euthanased Preparing for euthanasia: our vet’s advice And then there’s how to dispose of the body. It is illegal to bury your pet in your garden […]
31st August 2018
Rabies is not a ‘farm animal’ disease; all mammals are at risk of rabies and in South Africa, more dogs carry rabies than any other animal. That’s why veterinarians are urging pet owners to please vaccinate their pets. You might think you’re safe in the suburbs but rabies is endemic in SA. It knows no […]
23rd August 2018
Ladismith and Zoar are two of more than half a dozen towns serviced by the Karoo Animal Protection Society, KAPS. We have worked with KAPS for 10 years and are in awe of their dedication and dogged determination, in spite of the long distances they must travel to service the welfare needs of animals in […]
23rd August 2018
Jack Russells have a way of creeping into a dog lover’s heart so it was no surprise that when Nadine Janse van Rensburg’s precious Timmy went missing, she was frantic. Nadine, who lives in Ladismith in the Klein Karoo, searched high and low for her pup but to no avail. She walked the streets of […]
23rd August 2018
Problem pets can be helped. That’s the word from experienced animal behaviourist Dr Aileen Pypers who will be consulting at Country Animal Clinic twice a month on a Monday. Dr Pypers, who qualified as a veterinarian in 2010 and worked as a state vet, is additionally qualified in veterinary behaviour medicine. In 2012 she began […]
22nd August 2018
For any dog owner, witnessing your beloved pet having a seizure or fitting episode can be a terrifying experience. Seizures or fits are the result of disease and your veterinarian will need to run several tests on your dog to determine the cause. “The most important thing you can do as an owner is not […]
15th August 2018
Vomiting episodes are fairly common with dogs. However, if the vomiting continues (more than one isolated episode) or there is a noticeable decline in a dog’s overall health, it’s essential to take action. What could be causing the vomiting? These are the 5 most common conditions that contribute to vomiting. They can be dangerous and […]
2nd August 2018
New puppy owners are understandably anxious about what to feed their babies. There are so many food choices out there, as well as the latest fads and fashions and this can be confusing. However, feeding your new puppy the correct diet from day one will set up him for a longer, healthier life – and […]
19th July 2018
Vaccinations have become a hot topic on the internet and as a result there’s a lot of conflicting and confusing information out there. If you have concerns, please remember that your veterinarian has all the updated scientific information at her fingertips. Ask her for advice. How do vaccinations work? Vaccines are like boot camp for […]
18th July 2018
Barking dogs can become a serious problem in built-up neighbourhoods, resulting in bad blood between neighbours. If your dog is the culprit, you will need to do something to stop the incessant noise but punishment isn’t the answer. In fact, hitting, shouting at or locking your dog in the garage as punishment will only add […]
25th June 2018
Workouts are more commonly associated with humans and Virgin Active but pets, particularly those that are ageing, need to maintain an active lifestyle too. Regular exercise promotes muscle strength, joint flexibility and overall health and is particularly important to keep age-related ailments like arthritis at bay. Workouts to keep your pets moving > Step-ups. Encourage […]
24th June 2018
Owning a pet is about more than having a loving companion. It is also a big responsibility governed by the law of the land. Ignoring these laws could result in a substantial cash fine or time in prison. According to the Animal Protection Act of 1962, anyone who does not follow the regulations set out […]
13th June 2018
Prostate cancer, or adenocarcinoma, is a malignant tumour originating in the glandular tissue, in this case the tissue of the prostate gland. It can grow and metastasize rapidly to other parts and organs of the body, including the lungs, bones, and lymph nodes. Prostatic adenocarcinoma is seen in both intact and neutered dogs. It can develop in any breed, but it most […]
11th June 2018
Most dog owners are familiar with ‘hot spots’. They are those raw, red patches on your dog where the hair has been rubbed or licked off or has fallen out. Any hair that is left is caked with noisy, smelly crusts. A hot spot is painful for your dog. Treatment is essential. Why do hot […]
10th June 2018
Separation anxiety is a common problem, particularly among dogs, and it can be difficult to solve because sorting it out requires intense involvement from the dog owner. However, as a dog owner it is hugely important to solve the problem as soon as possible as separation anxiety is one of the main reasons dogs end […]
8th June 2018
Sexually transmitted diseases are not something one naturally associates with animals but venereal tumours do unfortunately occur all too often in South Africa. Transmissible venereal tumour, or TVT, is a naturally occurring tumour that is sexually transmitted from one dog to another. It is also transmitted via licking or sniffing of an affected area. It […]
6th June 2018
Your cat is urinating or spraying in the house and you don’t know why. Firstly, understand that this is a common issue among cat owners. Secondly, accept that there are many reasons why a cat will do this. It is important to isolate the reason before you can take action. Reasons why your cat is […]
30th May 2018
You may think you’re lavishing your pet with all the love in the world but ‘humanising’ him too much may be killing him. The growing trend of ‘humanising’ pets is leading to a surge in potentially serious health issues. Obesity, behavioural problems and the rise of designer breeds have all been linked to this growing trend of […]
30th May 2018
A new baby is a significant upheaval in any home. Parents must adjust to little sleep and the seemingly unending demands of a fragile being they barely understand. Naturally, parents will instinctively focus all of their energies on the new baby and ensuring he/she thrives. But there is another occupant of the home that still […]
29th May 2018
Walk is no longer just a pleasure word for dogs. For many, it’s become a life-saver. With more than 50% of South African pets overweight or obese, regular exercise has never been more important. Walking is one of the best ways to shed weight. Just as important as getting out there and walking is how […]
28th May 2018
Cancer pain is something we don’t like to think about but if your pet has been diagnosed with cancer, he or she is almost certainly experiencing pain. Once diagnosed, your vet will work with you to create a pain management plan to keep your pet comfortable during treatment. Here are some pointers to keep in mind […]
28th May 2018
Babies who live with dogs and cats during their first year of life may be less susceptible to respiratory infections, such as the common cold. Growing up with pets is also linked to higher self-esteem, cognitive development and social skills. It also helps children develop kindness and compassion. A study of nearly 400 children […]
23rd May 2018
Mention the words ‘Feline Leukaemia’ to any cat owner and you’ll see instant panic on their faces. For many owners, this disease spells ‘early death’ for their beloved felines. However, cat specialist veterinarian Dr Glenn Olah, says with proper management by the owner and healthcare from the veterinary team, cats with this retrovirus can live […]
21st May 2018
Visits to the vet can be as stressful for pet owners as for their pets. You’re worried sick about your ailing pet. You’re also anxious about the other dogs and cats in the waiting room, and you’re probably worried what this may cost. Sometimes we’re so anxious we forget to ask the vet those important […]
14th May 2018
Veterinary costs can come as something of a shock to pet owners but there are things you can do to save on veterinary bills in the long term. PLAN AHEAD When adopting a puppy or kitten research the breed you’re adopting very carefully before making a commitment. Some breeds are genetically prone to particular diseases […]
25th April 2018
Undescended testicles are not something pet owners routinely search for. Yet if left where they are, they can pose serious health problems. Take the case of Squeek Cunnington, a 15 year old Jack Russell, who presented at our Country Animal Clinic in Somerset West with a large mass in his abdomen. The mass, said his […]
25th April 2018
Socialising your new puppy from the moment he or she enters your home is essential for his long-term development – and your sanity! A well-socialised dog is a pleasure to have around. But socialising a puppy isn’t always easy. The important thing is to treat your new pup with kindness. Understand that he’s a baby […]
24th April 2018
An anxious dog can be difficult to raise. He may cower when visitors arrive or lightening and thunder that have him diving under the bed. Sometimes, anxiety leads to destructive behaviour, urinating or defecating in the house or aggression. Regardless of what it is that makes your dog anxious, as a pet owner it is […]
22nd April 2018
Pumpkin is nutrient rich and a great source of dietary fibre which will help keep your dog’s digestive system regular. It also helps with weight loss because the fibre and water in the pumpkin help to keep them fuller for longer. Add nuggets of pumpkin to your dog’s regular meal or cook up these delicious treats […]
27th March 2018
All pet owners suffer the frustrations of pet hair on the furniture, on carpets and on clothing. Here’s what you need to know about shedding: Shedding is normal Dogs have approximately 15,000 hairs per 2,5cm. Cats have between 60,000 and 120,000 hairs per 2,5cm. Growth happens in a mosaic pattern, so shedding does too, which […]
27th March 2018
Taking care of your pet’s teeth is more than fresh breath and clean teeth; it’s a serious health issue. Too few pet owners consider their pets’ teeth when considering their overall health yet a scary 85% of pets suffer some form of dental disease after the age of three. Bad teeth not only cause pain, […]
8th March 2018
Doctors have a way to protect pets from diseases: it’s called vaccination. Here’s why our clinics recommend them. What is a vaccine? Vaccine history starts with an epidemic of smallpox, which killed millions of people. In 1796, a physician named Edward Jenner noticed that the milk maids, who were routinely exposed to cowpox, did not […]
8th March 2018
This A – Z of cat care is not a definitive document; it is merely intended as a guide to help you navigate cat parenthood. The basics, at least, are covered and we will update it from time to time, as required. Enjoy every minute of your favourite feline; a cat makes the most wonderful […]
20th February 2018
A dog with constipation is an unhappy dog, and constipation can become life-threatening if left untreated. Here’s how to help your pooch: How bad is it? Determining the severity of your dog’s constipation is essential for treatment. If your dog is in significant discomfort, is vomiting, won’t eat, hasn’t pooped for more than three days, […]
15th February 2018
Pet parents the world over experience the same stomach-churning anxiety when it comes to giving medication to their dogs and cats. You know you’re in for a fight and that you, the parent, are likely to come off worst. Giving oral medication to a cat or dog is a huge challenge but there are simple ways […]
