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 […]
14th February 2018
Valentine’s Day is not traditionally linked to pets but we like to think of it as a reminder of how we, as pet owners, can properly show our pets how much we care. Pets don’t want to be wined and dined in fancy restaurants. They don’t want Valentine’s Day bunches of roses (unless they’re digging […]
3rd February 2018
Heart disease is usually associated with human beings and many pet owners don’t realise their pets are at risk too. In fact, its one of the most common illnesses we see in companion animals. All breeds can be affected – though some are genetically pre-disposed – and the incidence increases dramatically with age. February is […]
28th January 2018
Bladder stones in cats have myriad causes. Some breeds are pre-disposed to this condition, diet has a significant influence, and older cats are more likely to get them. Cats can develop bladder stones at any age. Some types of stones are more likely to form at different lifestages. The risk of developing calcium oxalate stones, for […]
26th January 2018
If ever you’ve had doubts about microchipping your pet, this story will surely change your mind! It was 17 years ago that Mr Mistoffelees, a beautiful black cat living in Newlands, Cape Town, went for a walk and never came back. He was just two years old at the time. His owner, Natalie Morrissey, was […]
24th January 2018
Dog owners are urged to be vigilant about snakes, particularly in the summer months when they are most active. Most dogs don’t understand that snakes can be deadly and will either attack a snake or at the very least try to sniff it or poke their nose down its hole. Snakes strike defensively so if […]
22nd January 2018
Buttercup, a young mama cat from Firgrove near Somerset West, underwent leg surgery at our EberVet Pet Clinic after being knocked down by a car. The brave ginger has four kittens. A snapped humerus did little to deter Buttercup from caring for her kittens. In fact, in spite of the pain, Buttercup did her very […]
18th January 2018
Sterilisation is not something that dog owner Lloyd Schmidt ever considered for his German Shepherd, Helga. “I was brought up to believe you leave the dog as it is; as nature intended, and that you don’t sterilise,” he says, “especially as the dog never got out and was protected from other dogs.” Then Helga became […]
18th January 2018
Having a dad as a veterinarian certainly helped Rosali Bruggemann map out her career. As a child she loved nothing more than helping him in his veterinary surgery in Margate, on the KwaZulu Natal South Coast. Her father still practices there. “As a result of my early childhood experiences, I came to love small animal […]
10th January 2018
Ear infections in dogs are more common than pet owners may think. And, unfortunately, there are several myths around them that could exacerbate recurrent infections. 5 facts to fight the fiction MYTH All ear infections are the same; I can use the same medicine I used the last time. FACT Your vet needs to examine […]
10th January 2018
Being bored isn’t something we usually associate with animals. However, as much as dog owners may regret having to go back to work after a long festive season break, so dogs resent their owners’ sudden absence. Dogs are sociable creatures that thrive on contact, play and attention. Being left alone at home from 8am to […]
2nd January 2018
Birds make great companions for young and old. However, it is essential that prospective owners properly research bird care before buying a bird. Birds need just as much care and attention as puppies or kittens; and they can cost money. Although a bird’s diet depends on the species, life history and how they’re housed, it […]
30th November 2017
Country Animal Clinic would like to say a great big thank you to our many wonderful clients and sponsors who made our first ever Dog Walk possible. What fun we had! The EberVet team was up early to prepare water points, marshalling stations, registration and, of course, to ensure the prizes were wrapped and waiting […]
14th November 2017
If your dog is licking consistently in one spot and a raw, red, moist sore develops, he or she probably has a ‘hot spot’. Hot spots (or moist dermatitis) appear spontaneously anywhere on a dog’s body. They are usually caused when broken skin is contaminated by bacteria. Moisture – a recent bath, a […]
13th November 2017
Large breed dogs have special food needs. Though they are popular with South African pet owners, few people understand that bigger dogs like Rottweilers, Boerbuls, Pitbulls, Retrievers and Labradors require a diet that is different to the Yorkie or Jack Russell. Years ago, feeding a large breed puppy was easy. Because we had the time, […]
10th November 2017
Bird flu has wiped out nearly 90% of laying hens in the Western Cape. As a result, consumers will experience table egg shortages. The South African Veterinary Association says that by early October, more than 3,5-million commercial egg laying hens had died from the disease or had been culled under State supervision to try to […]
7th November 2017
We have great news! The Country Animal Clinic Dog Walk is being hosted by celebrity TV presenter, Lizma van Zyl. Lizma will join us on 25 November and will be handing out prizes. Country Animal Clinic’s first Dog Walk is in celebration of our 20th anniversary. The clinic in Somerset West was the first veterinary […]
28th October 2017
Cats peeing on the bed is more common that you might think but its causes are complex. Patience is needed firstly to establish the cause, and then to try to break the habit. Why is my cat peeing on my bed? Your cat may be suffering from bladder stones or a bladder infection. These cause […]
27th October 2017
Pets, like humans, are prone to allergies especially at this time of year. Constant scratching, biting and licking are sure signs of a skin allergy, a more common ailment than one might think. Allergies cause great discomfort to your pets, leaving them with bald, bleeding patches and raised bumps or blisters on the skin. What […]
23rd October 2017
Rabbits, like dogs and cats, are prone to obesity. Rabbits that are obese are not able to function normally because of their large size and body fat percentage. Although certain breeds of rabbit, including the dwarf rabbit, are more at risk for obesity because of their shorter stature and inactivity, obesity occurs most often among […]
18th October 2017
Making a holiday checklist now might sound a bit premature if you’re only going away in December but planning for your pets takes longer than you think. There are some things you simply can’t leave until those final few days before departure. If your pets are going to boarding kennels, there is a lot of […]
16th October 2017
Your pet’s behaving badly, tearing up the furniture or chewing your shoes. You don’t know why. He has food, shelter, a warm bed and plenty of love. But how often do you play with your dog or cat? Are they simply ‘there’; part of the household that is fed and offered shelter but otherwise ignored. […]
11th October 2017
This report was recently issued by the *European Medicines Agency: Tick and flea control agent Bravecto continues to be acceptably safe to use. Bravecto, a medicine that treats tick and flea infestations in dogs and cats, continues to have an acceptable safety profile. However, the company that markets the product will have to update the […]
10th October 2017
Cats love climbing, but it isn’t all about fun. There are some important physical and psychological reasons behind why they do it. It’s also in their genes. Here are four reasons why cat owners need to ensure their cats have climbing space: Climbing keeps the peace. Cats living together use height to show their status in […]
4th October 2017
Fat cats in Parliament may be at the top of the earnings pile but when it comes to our pets, cats that are fat are on a losing streak. Fat cats usually suffer adverse health effects: Lifespan is shorter Excess body fat places strain on the bones and joints, the digestiveorgans, and the organs responsible for breathing […]
3rd October 2017
Fact: half of South Africa’s pets are overweight or obese. Fact: 9 out of 10 pet owners believe their pets are a normal weight. October is Pet Obesity Month and because this is such a huge problem for South Africa’s pets, we’re highlighting ways you can help yours to slim down. Firstly, it’s important to […]
19th September 2017
By Dr Adri Rossouw They may be beautiful to look at and fill your garden with fragrance but there are many plants that are poisonous to pets. The flame lily, the perfumed Yesterday, Today and Tomorrow, Elephant Ear, syringa and cycads all pose significant dangers to dogs and cats. At our Country Animal Clinic we […]
14th September 2017
By Dr Ingrid de Wet Nothing can be more scary than seeing a beloved pet have a seizure. Seizures usually come out of the blue and one feels utterly helpless as the minutes tick by. Today, we’re going to discuss what causes seizures and what to do when your pet has one. What is a […]
14th September 2017
Rabies is endemic in South Africa yet few pet owners appreciate the dangers to city and suburban pets. “We still tend to think of rabies as a disease found on farms, and that is spread by jackals and other wildlife,” says veterinarian Dr Hilldidge Beer. The reality though is that in South Africa 99% of […]
8th September 2017
The bird flu outbreak that has hit the Western Cape has been characterised as ‘severe’ by health authorities but infections so far are confined to chickens, domestic geese, ostriches and wild birds. As of September 7, 2017 no domestic pet birds were reported to have been stricken by the disease. No human infections have been reported […]
29th August 2017
You may have thought that it was only children that had ‘baby’ teeth but dogs have them too. And just like humans, some dogs don’t lose their baby teeth as they grow. This is a particular problem among certain breeds, in particular the toy breeds like Pomeranians, Yorkshire Terriers, Miniature Pinschers (Doberman) and Malteses but it […]
27th July 2017
A revolutionary kidney test, described by veterinarians as the most significant advancement in the field of veterinary medicine in 30 years, is turning back the clock for hundreds of thousands of pets. One in three cats and one in 10 dogs is likely to suffer chronic kidney disease (CKD) as they get older. It remains […]
19th July 2017
By Dr Ingrid de Wet Euthanasia is painful to contemplate. We love our pets so much that the idea of parting from them is something we don’t want to think about. Sadly though, euthanasia is an option we may have to address at some point in their lives due to illness and suffering. As difficult […]
18th July 2017
The popular DSTV television series, Kyknet’s Hond se Gedagtes, was recently filmed at EberVet’s Country Animal Clinic in Somerset West. EberVet’s CEO, veterinarian Dr Hilldidge Beer, will appear in two episodes of the series. Director Hein Scholtz, presenter Lizma van Zyl and the Hond se Gedagtes crew arrived early on an icy Thursday morning for […]
12th July 2017
Enucleation. It’s a scary-sounding word and it’s a scary procedure for most pet parents. No pet parent wants to be told their dog’s eye needs to be removed (enucleation) but several medical conditions may necessitate this. If a dog is in severe pain from a medical condition of the eye, or the condition can lead […]
10th July 2017
Supplies of Royal Canin pet food have been seriously affected by a global cyber attack. Computer hackers launched a crippling virus on computers worldwide which have affected hundreds of thousands of computers. The cyber attack on June 27 disrupted computers at Russia’s biggest oil company, Ukrainian banks and multinational firms across Britain, France, Germany, Italy, Poland and […]
4th July 2017
This might seem like a really silly question but it is something dogs do quite often and many owners do wonder what it means, especially if the shaking becomes a regular habit. Firstly, shaking is a brilliant way for dogs to get something out of their ears that shouldn’t be there. The forces generated by […]
4th July 2017
Deafness is perhaps not something one associates all that often with pets. However, there are more than 30 breeds of dogs that have a known susceptibility for deafness and it affects cats too. Dog breeds most often affected include: the Boston Terrier, Australian Shepherd, Cocker Spaniel, Dalmatian, German Shepherd, Jack Russell, Maltese, Toy and Miniature […]
29th June 2017
Obesity is the biggest single health threat to pets in South Africa. Though many pet owners believe a ‘little extra padding’ is not serious – fat pets are in fact at higher risk of diseases like arthritis, urinary conditions, skin conditions, heart disease and cancer. And that means thousands of Rands spent on avoidable vets’ […]
28th June 2017
As a pet owner, euthanasia is one of the toughest choices you may have to face. It’s even tougher if you are parent to a pet-loving child. How do you explain the need for euthanasia to a child? How do you explain death? Veterinary and child psychology experts share these tips: How you talk to your child […]
27th June 2017
My sister had a Staffordshire Bull Terrier that was so terrified of thunderstorms it once chewed through a window frame to escape. It broke the window glass and hurt itself rather nastily in the process. The family soon learned to stay home when storms were approaching or, if that wasn’t possible, to medicate their dog […]
