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07.10.21 October 07, 2021 Health

Hidden Hazards

Some pet emergencies are unavoidable; others are easier to prevent than you might think. We’ve teamed up Video Vets Now to find out how you can avoid an impromptu vet visit. Vets are there for your pets, but did you know that one of the best ways to protect your pet is to prevent emergencies from occurring in the first place? Whilst some pet emergencies will always be unavoidable, others are easier to prevent than you might think. According to our friends Video Vets Now, the video consultation service from emergency providers Vets Now, there are hidden hazards lurking in and around our homes. “Many pet owners are aware of the common dangers in and around our homes, however there’s a number of hidden hazards that can make our pets extremely unwell,” explains Dave Leicester, Head of Telehealth at Vets Now. “By being aware of these hidden hazards and making simple changes, pet owners can help prevent accidents and certain pet emergencies.” The smallest lifestyle changes can have a huge impact. These include keeping certain foods elsewhere, securely locking away household cleaning products and choosing different toys for your pet to play with. Video Vets Now’s hidden hazards guide will help you make sure the only accidents in your house are the ones your puppy leaves on the carpet. Ten Hidden Hazards That Could Make Your Pet Ill Some emergencies are inevitable, others are easy to avoid. Dave Leicester, Head of Telehealth at Vets Now, reveals what hazards to look out for. XYLITOL. Xylitol is a sweetening agent found in many sugar-free drinks, drinks and snacks, but it’s highly poisonous to dogs. Prevent an emergency by keeping your sugar-free snacks well out of their reach. INHALERS. If a dog punctures an inhaler, they could be exposed to a huge amount of highly toxic drugs in one go. Prevent an emergency by storing your inhaler somewhere safe. MILK / DAIRY. Lactose intolerance is more common in pets than many of us think. Prevent discomfort by keeping your dairy snacks to yourself. BIOFILM. Bacterial biofilm is the slime found in water bowls and may cause illness if inhaled or ingested. Prevent an emergency by refilling your pet’s bowl regularly with clean, fresh water. CANDLES. They can cause nasty burns and many contain essential oils, which are often toxic. Prevent an emergency by keeping candles away from your pets, and never leaving a lit candle unattended. SLUGS AND SNAILS. Dogs get lungworm by eating larvae found in infected snails and slugs and it can be fatal. Prevent an emergency by avoiding slug-prone areas, or keeping your dog on the lead. Remember, slug pellets are also toxic though, so take care in treating infestations. MUSHROOMS. Although not all types are dangerous, it’s almost impossible to tell the good from the bad. Prevent an emergency by keeping your dog on the lead when there are wild mushrooms around. MEDICATION. Common painkillers such as paracetamol and ibuprofen can be highly poisonous. Prevent an emergency by keeping your medication somewhere safe and secure. COMPOST. Garden waste can produce mycotoxins which can be highly dangerous. Prevent an emergency by keeping your compost bin securely closed at all times. COUNTRYSIDE TOXINS. Fertilisers, insecticides, stagnant water, and even waterlogged soil, can all contain dangerous toxins and bacteria. Prevent an emergency by walking your dog in clean, dry areas, and washing their paws and legs thoroughly after walks in the country. To find out more about hidden hazards visit Vets Now Pet Hidden Hazards Hub | Is Your Pet At Risk? (vets-now.com) Need some additional advice and it’s not an emergency? Vets Now are just a tap away with Video Vets Now. You can book your appointment and get chatting to a qualified vet from your campsite, caravan or conservatory.A ten-minute video consult costs £24 and is refundable if Vets Now recommend an in-person follow up within 48 hours. For more details and how to book visit: Online Vets | Video Chat With Our UK Based Vets | 8am-11pm Daily (vets-now.com)

By Laura Rudd

Some pet emergencies are unavoidable; others are easier to prevent than you might think. We’ve teamed up Video Vets Now to find out how you can avoid an impromptu vet visit.

Vets are there for your pets, but did you know that one of the best ways to protect your pet is to prevent emergencies from occurring in the first place?

Whilst some pet emergencies will always be unavoidable, others are easier to prevent than you might think. According to our friends Video Vets Now, the video consultation service from emergency providers Vets Now, there are hidden hazards lurking in and around our homes.

“Many pet owners are aware of the common dangers in and around our homes, however there’s a number of hidden hazards that can make our pets extremely unwell,” explains Dave Leicester, Head of Telehealth at Vets Now. “By being aware of these hidden hazards and making simple changes, pet owners can help prevent accidents and certain pet emergencies.”

The smallest lifestyle changes can have a huge impact. These include keeping certain foods elsewhere, securely locking away household cleaning products and choosing different toys for your pet to play with.

Video Vets Now’s hidden hazards guide will help you make sure the only accidents in your house are the ones your puppy leaves on the carpet.

Labrador with a blue first aid kit

Ten Hidden Hazards That Could Make Your Pet Ill

Some emergencies are inevitable, others are easy to avoid. Dave Leicester, Head of Telehealth at Vets Now, reveals what hazards to look out for.

XYLITOL. Xylitol is a sweetening agent found in many sugar-free drinks, drinks and snacks, but it’s highly poisonous to dogs. Prevent an emergency by keeping your sugar-free snacks well out of their reach.
INHALERS. If a dog punctures an inhaler, they could be exposed to a huge amount of highly toxic drugs in one go. Prevent an emergency by storing your inhaler somewhere safe.
MILK / DAIRY. Lactose intolerance is more common in pets than many of us think. Prevent discomfort by keeping your dairy snacks to yourself.
BIOFILM. Bacterial biofilm is the slime found in water bowls and may cause illness if inhaled or ingested. Prevent an emergency by refilling your pet’s bowl regularly with clean, fresh water.
CANDLES. They can cause nasty burns and many contain essential oils, which are often toxic. Prevent an emergency by keeping candles away from your pets, and never leaving a lit candle unattended.
SLUGS AND SNAILS. Dogs get lungworm by eating larvae found in infected snails and slugs and it can be fatal. Prevent an emergency by avoiding slug-prone areas, or keeping your dog on the lead. Remember, slug pellets are also toxic though, so take care in treating infestations.
MUSHROOMS. Although not all types are dangerous, it’s almost impossible to tell the good from the bad. Prevent an emergency by keeping your dog on the lead when there are wild mushrooms around.
MEDICATION. Common painkillers such as paracetamol and ibuprofen can be highly poisonous. Prevent an emergency by keeping your medication somewhere safe and secure.
COMPOST. Garden waste can produce mycotoxins which can be highly dangerous. Prevent an emergency by keeping your compost bin securely closed at all times.
COUNTRYSIDE TOXINS. Fertilisers, insecticides, stagnant water, and even waterlogged soil, can all contain dangerous toxins and bacteria. Prevent an emergency by walking your dog in clean, dry areas, and washing their paws and legs thoroughly after walks in the country.

Golden labrador on a walk

To find out more about hidden hazards visit Vets Now Pet Hidden Hazards Hub | Is Your Pet At Risk? (vets-now.com)

Need some additional advice and it’s not an emergency? Vets Now are just a tap away with Video Vets Now. You can book your appointment and get chatting to a qualified vet from your campsite, caravan or conservatory.

A ten-minute video consult costs £24 and is refundable if Vets Now recommend an in-person follow up within 48 hours. For more details and how to book visit: Online Vets | Video Chat With Our UK Based Vets | 8am-11pm Daily (vets-now.com)

Golden retriever licking peanut butter off a spoon

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04.12.23 December 04, 2023 Health

Is Peanut Butter Good For Dogs?

Peanut butter—a delightful treat beloved by many—has found its way into the hearts (and mouths) of numerous canine companions. But while it's a delicious indulgence for humans, the question remains: Is peanut butter safe and beneficial for our four-legged friends? Can Dogs Have Peanuts? The short answer: Yes, dogs can eat peanuts. These legumes are safe for most dogs when served in moderation and in the right form. However, some caveats exist, especially regarding certain types of peanuts or peanut-related products. Are Peanuts Toxic to Dogs? Raw or salted peanuts, especially in large quantities, might pose risks to dogs due to potential additives like salt, which can lead to sodium ion poisoning. Moreover, aflatoxins—a type of mould commonly found in peanuts—can be harmful to dogs if ingested in significant amounts. Always opt for unsalted, unflavoured peanuts and ensure they are fresh and free from mould. Is Peanut Butter Good for Dogs? High-quality, unsweetened, and unsalted peanut butter can be a safe and healthy treat for dogs. It's an excellent source of protein, healthy fats, vitamins, and niacin. Not to mention, many dogs absolutely adore its taste and texture! Peanut Butter Dog Treats: Safe and Delicious When considering peanut butter for dogs, especially as a treat or in homemade recipes, it's crucial to steer clear of xylitol—a common sweetener found in some peanut butter brands. Xylitol is toxic to dogs and must be avoided at all costs. Peanut Butter Dos and Don'ts for Dogs: Dos: Opt for Natural Peanut Butter: Choose unsweetened, unsalted varieties without additives like xylitol. Moderation is Key: While nutritious, peanut butter is calorie-dense. Limit the portions to prevent excessive calorie intake. Homemade Treats: Consider making homemade peanut butter treats using safe ingredients tailored for dogs. Don'ts: Xylitol-Containing Products: Avoid peanut butter brands that include xylitol, as it can be lethal to dogs. Mouldy or Rancid Peanuts: Always ensure that the peanuts or peanut butter are fresh and free from mould or spoilage. Can Puppies Have Peanut Butter? Puppies can enjoy peanut butter in moderation as part of a balanced diet once they've transitioned to solid foods. However, due to their developing systems, it's crucial to introduce new foods gradually and consult a veterinarian before introducing peanut butter to a puppy's diet. Peanut Butter Dog Treats Recipe Ingredients: 1 cup natural peanut butter (no xylitol) 1 egg 1 3/4 cups whole wheat flour Instructions: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). In a bowl, mix peanut butter and egg until well combined. Gradually add flour and mix until a dough forms. Roll out dough to 1/4 inch thickness and cut into desired shapes. Place treats on a baking sheet and bake for 15-20 minutes until golden brown. Let the treats cool completely before serving to your furry friend. Final Thoughts Peanut butter, when selected and served wisely, can be a delightful addition to your dog's diet. Always prioritise quality, avoid harmful additives, and ensure moderation in feeding. As with any new food, consult your veterinarian to ensure it fits well with your dog's specific dietary needs and health condition. With these precautions in mind, sharing a dollop of peanut butter with your furry companion can be a delicious and safe indulgence!

By Megan Willis
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04.12.23 December 04, 2023 Health

Should I Get My Dog Neutered?

For dog owners, the decision of whether to spay or neuter their beloved pets is often a pivotal one. The process of neutering, or spaying, a dog involves surgical removal of reproductive organs, and it's a decision that requires careful consideration. Let's delve into the details of dog spay and neuter procedures, their benefits, costs, and the recovery process to aid in your decision-making process. Understanding Dog Neutering Neutering involves the removal of a male dog's testicles or a female dog's ovaries and uterus. The primary aim is to prevent reproduction, reducing the number of unwanted litters and curbing certain behavioural tendencies. Benefits of Neutering Your Dog Behavioural Changes - Neutering can often lead to a reduction in certain behaviours such as roaming, aggression, and marking territory. Male dogs might display less dominance-related behaviours after being neutered. Health Benefits - Spaying female dogs reduces the risk of uterine infections and breast tumours. Neutering male dogs can prevent testicular cancer and reduce the risk of prostate problems. Controlling Overpopulation - By preventing unwanted litters, neutering contributes significantly to controlling the population of stray dogs. Factors to Consider Cost to Spay or Neuter a Dog - The cost can vary widely based on factors such as the dog's size, age, and location. To find out the cost to neuter your dog we recommend speaking with your vet as they may have pet plans or payment plans to help with the cost! Recovery Period - Post-surgery, dogs require a period of recovery. For females, it can take around 10-14 days for the incision to heal fully. Males usually have a shorter recovery period. Preventing the dog from excessive activity during this time is crucial. Timing - The ideal age for neutering can vary by breed and size. Some experts recommend neutering at around 6 months, while others suggest earlier or later based on the dog's health and breed. Keyhole Spaying - A Minimally Invasive Option Keyhole spaying, or laparoscopic spaying, is a minimally invasive surgical technique that uses smaller incisions and a camera for the procedure. It offers faster recovery times and potentially reduced post-operative pain compared to traditional spaying methods. Neutering My Dog - Yes Or Now Deciding whether to get your dog neutered is a multifaceted choice that involves considering various factors such as your dog's health, behaviour, and your own circumstances. Consulting with a veterinarian to weigh the pros and cons based on your specific situation is crucial. In the end, while dog spay and neuter procedures have their costs and potential recovery periods, the long-term benefits often outweigh the initial concerns. Neutering not only contributes to your pet's health but also plays a role in managing the population of unwanted animals. Remember, the decision should be made with careful consideration of your dog's individual needs and in consultation with a qualified veterinary professional.

By Megan Willis
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31.10.23 October 31, 2023 Health

How To Cut Your Cat's Nails

Cats are graceful and majestic creatures, but their claws can sometimes become a source of concern for pet owners. Overgrown claws not only pose a risk to your furniture and skin but can also be uncomfortable for your feline companion. Learning how to cut your cat's nails can be a vital skill for every cat owner. In this guide, we will cover everything you need to know about cat claw trimming, from the tools required to the step-by-step process. Key Tools for Cat Claw Trimming: Before we dive into the steps on how to cut your cat's nails, let's first discuss the essential tools you'll need: Cat Nail Clippers: Ensure you invest in a quality pair of cat nail clippers. The type with a guillotine-style or scissor-like design is commonly preferred. Look for a sharp, clean cutting edge. Styptic Powder: Accidents can happen, and you may accidentally cut the quick (the sensitive part of the nail). Styptic powder helps stop any bleeding quickly. Treats: These are essential to reward your cat for good behaviour during the nail trimming process. You could also try a licky mat with some liver paste on it for your cat to lick whilst you cut their nails Understanding Cat Claws: Before you start trimming your cat's claws, it's essential to understand a bit about them. Cat claws are retractable and contain a sheath that should not be cut. The inner core of the claw is what you should focus on when trimming. Never trim into the pinkish area, as this is the quick and can be painful. The Step-by-Step Guide to Cat Claw Trimming: Choose the Right Time: Pick a time when your cat is calm and relaxed, perhaps after a meal or a play session. Prepare the Area: Find a quiet and well-lit room. Have all your tools ready within arm's reach. Acquaint Your Cat: Gently pet and massage your cat's paws to make them comfortable with the sensation. Extend the Claw: Gently press your cat's paw pad to extend the claws. Cut Carefully: Use the cat nail clippers to snip the sharp tip of the claw, being careful not to cut the quick. Gradually trim one claw at a time. Be Cautious: If you're unsure, it's better to trim a smaller portion of the claw to avoid hitting the quick. Use Styptic Powder: If you accidentally cut the quick, apply styptic powder to stop the bleeding. Reward Your Cat: After each successful trimming session, reward your cat with treats and praise. Should You Cut Your Cat's Claws? Trimming your cat's claws is essential for their health and your comfort. Cats with overgrown claws may experience difficulty walking, and they can unintentionally scratch and injure themselves. Furthermore, it prevents damage to your furniture and minimises the risk of injury to you and other household members. Best Cat Clippers for Nails: When choosing cat clippers, opt for reputable brands known for their sharpness and durability. Our favourites include: The Charlie The Vet First Aid Kit - This great kit has over 40 items in it, including nail clippers and a styptic stick which are perfect for cutting your cat’s nails. The Catit Longhair Grooming Kit is a great choice if you have a long haired cat; it contains every tool you need to take care of your longhaired cat’s coat, as well as a pair of curved nail clippers! If you’re looking for a pair of nail clippers on their own then we’d recommend the Ancol Ergo Cat Nail Clippers How To Care For Your Cat’s Nails You may not need to cut your cat’s nails with the right care. Outdoor cats, as well as indoor cats who love a scratch post, are less likely to need their nails cutting. For our top tips why not check out our cat claw guide? Learning how to cut your cat's nails is an essential skill for every cat owner. It not only ensures your cat's health and safety but also fosters a strong bond between you and your feline companion. Remember to be patient, take your time, and always prioritise your cat's comfort and safety. With the right tools and a gentle touch, you can successfully maintain your cat's claws and enjoy a harmonious coexistence.

By Megan Willis
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10.10.23 October 10, 2023 Health

Toxic Foods Your Dog Should AVOID This Halloween

Spooky season is here! And households all over the nation will likely find themselves surrounded by a whole host of sweet treats and snacks, ready for trick-or-treaters to arrive at the door. It seems pup owners are certainly preparing to protect their four-legged friends from the food-heavy holiday seasons ahead, with 2,400 Google searches for ‘what can’t dogs eat’ in the past month. With this in mind, Johanna Buitelaar-Warden, Founder of Lords and Labradors has highlighted four toxic foods that you should never give to your dog and how to keep your pets away from potentially harmful snacks Can Dogs Eat Pumpkin? In short, yes, your dog can eat pumpkin flesh. Pumpkins are found in a lot of dog food and may even be an ingredient in the meals they already eat. However, to stay safe, avoid feeding your pooch the prickly stalk – whilst this is not toxic, it may cause irritation in your dog's mouth and harm once ingested. It’s also important to remove the pumpkin skin before serving your dog up some pumpkin, as this can act as a choking hazard. If ingested, this can be a serious risk of gut obstruction. Can Dogs Eat Chocolate? Be aware, that chocolate is notoriously dangerous for dogs! This is because chocolate contains caffeine and theobromine, which even in small doses can provide serious problems for your dog. Issues can range from mild stomach upsets, to more serious complications like seizures and cardiac arrests. To ensure your pet remains safe and healthy, keeping chocolate treats away from your dog is essential to their wellbeing – whether you have a little puppy, or a full-grown adult dog. Can Dogs Eat Sweets? From sugar-free chewy fangs to jelly eyeballs, artificial sweeteners can be even more detrimental to your dog’s health than sugar. These types of sweet treats commonly include an ingredient called Xylitol – which is highly forbidden for dogs – as this can potentially result in toxicity, which can set in as early as 30 minutes after ingestion. Complications from Xylitol can pose a danger to your dog’s blood sugar levels and liver function. Can Dogs Eat Popcorn Or Crisps? Just like humans, dogs can handle a certain amount of salt in their daily diet. However, high levels of this, found in snacks like popcorn and crisps, can cause complications such as sodium or ion poisoning for your four-legged friend. This can cause a whole host of complications, ranging from a high fever and vomiting to excessive thirst, seizures and kidney damage. Can Dogs Eat Raisins Or Grapes? Although households that hand out fruit on Halloween may have your children’s best interests in mind, healthier snacks like raisins, grapes and sultanas can make your dog seriously poorly if consumed. They can cause gut problems in pups, and in some cases, kidney damage. The toxic dose varies from dog to dog but can be very little in some cases – meaning that they will only have to eat a small portion to become seriously unwell. Are puppies at a higher risk? Whilst it’s important to keep dogs of all ages away from toxic foods like chocolate, high-salt snacks, and sugar-free alternatives, this is especially important for puppies. Puppy food contains a balance of proteins, enzymes and other nutrients that are designed especially for their health and growth – therefore, overindulging or nibbling on the wrong food item can cause both immediate, and long-term complications for your fur baby. When rich or fatty foods are consumed as a puppy, the risk of diseases such as pancreatis increases. Essentially, this can lead to a lifetime of gut sensitivity for your precious pooch. And extra calories outside of a healthy balanced diet may lead to obesity, contributing to a shorter lifespan as an adult. Tricks To Keep Your Dogs Away From Poisonous Food Distance your pet from trick-or-treaters: it’s a good idea to keep your dog in another part of the house where they will be safe when trick-or-treaters come knocking. Provide their own special treats to reduce temptation: giving your pet some tasty, dog-friendly treats, such as Barking Bakery’s Doggy Popcorn or Denzel’s Toffee Apple Soft Sticks is a great substitute for toxic human sweets and chocolate. Have a plan for storing sweets: It’s important to have a plan for where the sweets will be stored, as leaving these on floors, tables, or any other easy-reachable surface becomes a hazard for your dog. Ensure household members, and visitors, are aware: make sure to review the list of toxic foods with everyone in your household to ensure your pet is as safe as possible – and don’t forget to inform potential guests who may want to give your pooch a tasty treat! If the worst-case scenario happens and you think your dog may have eaten something harmful, it’s important to treat this as an emergency and contact your local veterinarian straight away. Keep monitoring your pooch just in case they display any unusual behaviour, such as: vomiting, lethargy, loss of coordination, excessive thirst, rapid heartbeat or seizures. Want to treat your dog to some terrifically tasty treats which they can eat this Halloween, why not check out our Halloween collection? It's filled with spook-tacular goodies for them to enjoy

By Megan Willis
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Hidden Hazards

Some pet emergencies are unavoidable; others are easier to prevent than you might think. We’ve teamed up Video Vets Now to find out how you can avoid an impromptu vet visit.

Ten Hidden Hazards That Could Make Your Pet Ill

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Is Peanut Butter Good For Dogs?

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How To Cut Your Cat's Nails

Toxic Foods Your Dog Should AVOID This Halloween

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