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...
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...
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...
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...
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...
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...
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...
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...
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...
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...
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...
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...