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 […]
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 […]
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
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 […]
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 […]
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 […]
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 […]
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 […]
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 […]
