Licking obsessively, and usually in the same spot over and over again, causes what is known as acral lick granuloma. This condition is also known as acral lick dermatitis. 'Acral' means belonging to the extremities. It typically forms on the front part of the lower...
Coccidiosis is an intestinal tract infection caused by a single-celled organism (a protozoa) called coccidia. There are four different species that can infect dogs. These microscopic parasites spend part of their life cycle in the lining cells of the intestine....
Cushing's syndrome happens when your dog's body makes too much of a hormone called cortisol. This hormone usually helps your dog respond to stress, controls his weight, fights infections, and keeps his blood sugar levels in check but when there is too much, or too...
Fearful dogs show a range of behaviours - from hiding when there is thunder to attacking other dogs they meet on a walk. Understanding what causes their fear will help you to help them overcome it. Rule number one: never, ever punish a dog that is aggressive or...
Snail bait poisoning (Metaldehyde poisoning) in dogs can lead to respiratory failure and death if not treated urgently. For most of us Spring brings pure joy; warmer weather and new growth everywhere. But, as buds and bulbs spring into action, so do snails and slugs...
Gardening with dogs might seem like an impossible task (don't they dig up everything?!) but with a bit of foresight, says veterinarian Dr Belinda Roxburgh, you and your dog can enjoy your garden together. Gardening with dogs: the planning phase Exercising your dogs...
Hotspots in dogs are a common summer complaint and they can be frustrating to treat. A hotspot is the common name for a superficial moist dermatitis; anything that causes itchiness and inflammation of the skin or a small wound in the skin creates the environment for...
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...
Like humans, pets can develop diabetes. Signs that your pet may have this life-threatening disease include: excessive urination; excessive drinking; increased appetite; and weight loss. In cases where the diabetes is not treated promptly and allowed to progress to the...