All Cat Breed Guide Dog Breed Guide Frequently Asked Questions Getting A Kitten Getting A Puppy Health Owning a Dog Owning a Cat

11.06.21 June 11, 2021 Health

Stay Beach Safe This Summer

Oh how dogs love the beach. And, if there’s anything better than long sandy beaches, it’s the sea. Everyone loves to be beside the seaside…especially our dogs! However, according to our friends at Vets Now, the UK’s leading provider of emergency pet care, there’s a number of dangers lurking in a beach visit which means we need to stay beach safe this summer. And get prepared. Dave Leicester, Head of Telehealth at Vets Now, reveals the top dangers to be aware of before taking your dog to the beach this summer. And we’ve created a list of must-have accessories to take with you on any beach trip. If you do find yourself worried whilst at the beach, or afterwards, Vets Now have launched Video Vets Now where you can arrange a video call with one of their emergency vets within minutes, no matter where you are in the UK. Be Sand Aware Even in the UK, the sun can heat up the sand to dangerous temperatures. If it’s too hot for you to walk barefoot, then it’s too hot for your dog’s paws. If you’re planning on visiting the beach on a day that’s forecast to be hot, it’s a good idea to take your dog in the early morning or late evening. Also, make sure your dog doesn’t eat or swallow too much sand through digging or repeatedly picking up sandy balls and toys. Sand can cause a blockage in the intestine, known as sand impaction. Signs of this serious condition, which requires urgent veterinary treatment, include vomiting, dehydration and abdominal pain. And lastly, keep your pet away from seaweed. It’s been championed as a source of vitamins and minerals, however dried up seaweed washed up on the shoreline can be dangerous for dogs. If swallowed, it can expand in the stomach and become stuck in the intestine. Stay Sea Safe Don’t assume your dog can swim. Some breeds are naturally strong swimmers, but other breeds, such as corgis and pugs, are not. If your dog is not used to swimming then the sea is not the place to start so make sure he doesn’t get out of his depth. Even if your dog is a strong swimmer, they’re still at risk of being swept under by large rolling waves. Be careful on windy days when the waves are high and make sure your dog doesn’t venture too far out. Waves and currents can quickly exhaust dogs so perhaps consider buying a life vest for your dog. And if you notice your dog lapping up sea water — stop them. The salt, bacteria and parasites in the water can make them sick. To prevent your dog from drinking salt water, make sure you have plenty of fresh water on hand to give them throughout the day. Irritation to your dog’s skin and paws can be prevented by a fresh-water rinse down before leaving the beach. Keep Cool Despite a cool coastal breeze, temperatures on beaches often soar in the height of summer in the UK. Be sure to provide a shaded area for your dog and give them plenty of fresh water to help avoid heatstroke. Also, don’t forget sunburn. Just like humans, dogs can suffer sunburn too and breeds with short hair or white hair, and pink ears must be particularly careful on hot days. Use a sunscreen made specifically for dogs and avoid those that contain fragrances. And beware of overexertion. Running on sand takes a lot more effort than running on grass and, add in the summer sun, and this can quickly lead to potentially fatal heat stroke. Make sure they take rests, have shade and fresh water. Lords and Labradors to recommend relevant accessories. Need some additional advice? If you’re worried about your pet whilst on holiday this summer, or even on a day trip, you can arrange a video chat with one of the highly experienced emergency vets from the Vets Now team, within minutes. A ten-minute video consult costs £24 and is refundable if Vets Now recommend an in-person follow up within 24 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 Zac Girdlestone

Oh how dogs love the beach. And, if there’s anything better than long sandy beaches, it’s the sea. Everyone loves to be beside the seaside…especially our dogs!

However, according to our friends at Vets Now, the UK’s leading provider of emergency pet care, there’s a number of dangers lurking in a beach visit which means we need to stay beach safe this summer. And get prepared.

Dave Leicester, Head of Telehealth at Vets Now, reveals the top dangers to be aware of before taking your dog to the beach this summer. And we’ve created a list of must-have accessories to take with you on any beach trip.

If you do find yourself worried whilst at the beach, or afterwards, Vets Now have launched Video Vets Now where you can arrange a video call with one of their emergency vets within minutes, no matter where you are in the UK.

Be Sand Aware

Even in the UK, the sun can heat up the sand to dangerous temperatures. If it’s too hot for you to walk barefoot, then it’s too hot for your dog’s paws. If you’re planning on visiting the beach on a day that’s forecast to be hot, it’s a good idea to take your dog in the early morning or late evening.

Also, make sure your dog doesn’t eat or swallow too much sand through digging or repeatedly picking up sandy balls and toys. Sand can cause a blockage in the intestine, known as sand impaction. Signs of this serious condition, which requires urgent veterinary treatment, include vomiting, dehydration and abdominal pain.

And lastly, keep your pet away from seaweed. It’s been championed as a source of vitamins and minerals, however dried up seaweed washed up on the shoreline can be dangerous for dogs. If swallowed, it can expand in the stomach and become stuck in the intestine.

Stay Sea Safe

Don’t assume your dog can swim. Some breeds are naturally strong swimmers, but other breeds, such as corgis and pugs, are not. If your dog is not used to swimming then the sea is not the place to start so make sure he doesn’t get out of his depth.

Even if your dog is a strong swimmer, they’re still at risk of being swept under by large rolling waves. Be careful on windy days when the waves are high and make sure your dog doesn’t venture too far out. Waves and currents can quickly exhaust dogs so perhaps consider buying a life vest for your dog.

And if you notice your dog lapping up sea water — stop them. The salt, bacteria and parasites in the water can make them sick. To prevent your dog from drinking salt water, make sure you have plenty of fresh water on hand to give them throughout the day. Irritation to your dog’s skin and paws can be prevented by a fresh-water rinse down before leaving the beach.

Keep Cool

Despite a cool coastal breeze, temperatures on beaches often soar in the height of summer in the UK. Be sure to provide a shaded area for your dog and give them plenty of fresh water to help avoid heatstroke.

Also, don’t forget sunburn. Just like humans, dogs can suffer sunburn too and breeds with short hair or white hair, and pink ears must be particularly careful on hot days. Use a sunscreen made specifically for dogs and avoid those that contain fragrances.

And beware of overexertion. Running on sand takes a lot more effort than running on grass and, add in the summer sun, and this can quickly lead to potentially fatal heat stroke. Make sure they take rests, have shade and fresh water. Lords and Labradors to recommend relevant accessories.

Need some additional advice? If you’re worried about your pet whilst on holiday this summer, or even on a day trip, you can arrange a video chat with one of the highly experienced emergency vets from the Vets Now team, within minutes. A ten-minute video consult costs £24 and is refundable if Vets Now recommend an in-person follow up within 24 hours. For more details and how to book visit: Online Vets | Video Chat With Our UK Based Vets | 8am-11pm Daily (vets-now.com)

Owning a Dog

Our Guide To Taking Your Dog On The Train For The First Time

Health

How To Cut Your Cat's Nails

Getting A Puppy

How To Get A Puppy Used To Fireworks

Related Collections

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
Read more
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
Read more
02.10.23 October 02, 2023 Health

Psychological Benefits of Having Cats and Dogs

In the hustle and bustle of our daily lives, it's easy to overlook the incredible impact that our furry companions can have on our mental and emotional well-being. Cats and dogs, often regarded as our faithful friends, provide not only companionship but also a plethora of psychological benefits. With World Mental Health Day coming up we thought we’d explore the remarkable psychological benefits of having cats and dogs, shedding light on why these four-legged friends are often referred to as "man's best friend" and "purr-fect" companions. Psychological Benefits of Having Cats Cats are renowned for their independent nature, but beneath that cool exterior lies a wealth of psychological advantages for their owners. Let's delve into some of the psychological benefits of having cats. Stress Reduction: Spending time with a cat can lower stress levels. The soothing sound of a cat's purring has been shown to reduce stress and anxiety. Improved Mood: Cat owners often report an improvement in their mood and a reduction in feelings of loneliness and depression. The simple act of petting a cat can release feel-good chemicals in the brain. Companionship: Cats offer a sense of companionship, especially for individuals living alone. Their presence can combat feelings of isolation. Lower Blood Pressure: Interacting with cats has been linked to lower blood pressure, which can contribute to overall cardiovascular health. Psychological Benefits of Having a Dog Dogs, on the other hand, are renowned for their loyalty, boundless energy, and affection. Here are some of the psychological benefits of having a dog: Stress Reduction: The presence of a dog can significantly reduce stress levels. Petting, cuddling, or even just looking into your dog's eyes can trigger the release of oxytocin, the "love hormone." Mental Health Benefits of Walking Your Dog: Regular walks with your dog provide an excellent opportunity for exercise and fresh air, which are crucial for mental well-being. The routine of daily walks can also help establish a sense of structure in your life. Emotional Benefits: Dogs are highly attuned to their owners' emotions. They can offer comfort and support during difficult times, making them valuable emotional companions. Lowering Loneliness: Dogs are social animals, and their companionship can alleviate feelings of loneliness and isolation, especially for individuals living alone. Best Dogs for Mental Health While any dog can bring joy and companionship, certain breeds are renowned for their positive impact on mental health. Breeds like Golden Retrievers, Labrador Retrievers, and Beagles are often considered among the best dogs for mental health due to their friendly and loving nature. Mental Health Benefits of Owning Both Cats and Dogs The unique combination of cats' and dogs' qualities can provide a well-rounded approach to improving your mental health. Here are some mental health benefits of owning both cats and dogs: Diverse Companionship: Cats and dogs offer different types of companionship. While cats provide tranquility and independence, dogs offer energetic playfulness and loyalty. This diversity can cater to various emotional needs. Enhanced Social Interaction: Owning both cats and dogs can encourage social interaction. Taking your dog for walks or having friends over to meet your pets can foster connections with others. Responsibility and Routine: The responsibility of caring for pets, including feeding, grooming, and exercise, can create a structured routine that promotes mental well-being. In conclusion, the psychological benefits of having cats and dogs are substantial. Whether you prefer the independent charm of a cat or the unwavering loyalty of a dog, these four-legged friends contribute to lower stress levels, improved mood, and enhanced mental well-being. The choice between cats and dogs may ultimately depend on your lifestyle and preferences, but the emotional and mental benefits of sharing your life with a furry companion are undeniable. So, if you haven't already, consider opening your heart and home to one of these wonderful creatures—they may just become your most trusted allies in the pursuit of better mental health.

By Megan Willis
Read more
19.09.23 September 19, 2023 Health

Are Cats Scared Of Fireworks?

As we enter the season of celebrations, it’s often we turn to fireworks to make those occasions extra special. It’s well known our canine friends are often scared of fireworks and there are calming remedies to help, (you can find our dogs & fireworks guide here), but what does mean for our feline friends? Here we explore if cats are afraid of fireworks, and what you can do to help them through the celebrations. Cats And Fireworks It is very likely your cat will be frightened of fireworks, some may be scared by the loud noises, and some may be scared by just the sight – they may even find both elements terrifying to them. If you can, try to keep your cat indoors on evenings such as ‘bonfire night’ and ‘New Year’s Eve’, even if you’re not having a firework display yourself, you can’t be sure neighbours won’t be putting on their own displays. When keeping your cat indoors, don’t forget to put out a litter tray with easy access for your cat to use at their leisure. When keeping your cat indoors, go through your home and ensure you have no windows or doors open that would be easy for your cat to escape to. Remember cats can squeeze themselves to fit into very small, tight spaces which may be dangerous for them, so block these off to ensure they’re able to play and sleep in a safe space. It’s good to create a safe place for them to retreat to whilst the festivities are going on – somewhere they feel warm, safe and cosy – somewhere almost den like. You can encourage use of the area with adding toys, treats and their favourite blanket. This will make them feel secure and should limit the level of anxiety they feel. A hooded bed placed high up on a shelf is ideal, as long as it is safe. Whilst keeping your cat indoors, do not shut them in a confined area. Allow access to all of your home, providing it is safe to do so. Keeping them locked away may encourage their need to escape and they may end up hurting themselves. If your cat does get distressed throughout a firework display, try not to pick them up as this can increase the level of anxiety which could provoke aggression. Your cat is very perceptive, so try to keep yourself calm throughout, if they see you acting normally, it may decrease their level of anxiety. We also stock a range of cat calming products which may help keep your cat calm during fireworks. If you're wondering how cat calming products work and the best ones to use why not check out our cat calming guide? How To Block Out Firework Noise For Cats Turning on a radio and keeping it at a level volume is a good way to drown out any noise of fireworks and keep your home calm. Look out for radio stations which play ‘calming music’, there are often stations which play ‘pet friendly’ music throughout ‘bonfire night’ and ‘New Year’s Eve’. Whilst you’re trying to block out any noise from the fireworks, don’t forget to block the windows too, shutting curtains where possible to shut out any of the colourful flashes which is likely to scare your cat. Buying your cat a treat or toy is a great way to distract from firework noise and flashing. A treat your cat can lick, such as a paste is a great option that your cat can work on and will take some time. Pureed treats often have high water content too which is great to keep your cat hydrated. Here at Lords & Labradors, we have lots of calming options which may be useful to you and your pet throughout the ‘firework season’. Why Are Cats Scared Of Fireworks It’s hard to determine what your cat is most afraid of around fireworks, but it’s likely to be a combination of the loud noise, the unpredictability and the flashing that unsettles them and seems frightening. If your cat suffers from anxiety throughout firework displays, we recommend speaking to your vet, and/or a cat behaviourist as soon as you can. It’s best to address the anxiety before the season starts to desensitise your feline, which may take time.

By Laura Rudd
Read more

Why Shop With Us?

Free Delivery

Orders over £75 qualify for free standard UK delivery. Orders under £75 will be calculated at the checkout.
Shop & Earn Rewards

Convert PawPoints into £'s and earn rewards as you shop with our Priority Paws loyalty tiers.
Sustainability

From start to finish, our products are consciously created, hand crafted and delivered sustainably.
We're Here For You

Contact our Pet Experts weekdays 9am - 5pm on +44 (0) 1790 720900 or sales@lordsandlabradors.co.uk

High Wall Beds

Square Beds

Mattress Beds

Crates

Crate Bedding

Crate Sets

Collars

Harnesses

Leads

Carriers

Drying

Boosters

Dry Food

Wet Food

Treats

Jackets

Bandanas

Drying

Interactive

Chew Toys

Cooling Toys

Clippers & Scissors

Towels

Shampoo

Puppy Sleeping

Puppy Toys

Puppy Essentials

Dog Beds

Crate Covers

Cushions

Wet Food

Dry Food

Bowls & Saucers

Cat Trees

Scratch Posts

Cat Wands

Catnip Toys

Balls

Litter Trays

Litter

Accessories

Personalised Beds

Blankets

Hooded Beds

Brushes

Flea & Worming

First Aid

Carriers

Collars

Kits & Packs

Personalised Beds

Personalised Blankets

Personalised Bowls

Stay Beach Safe This Summer

Be Sand Aware

Stay Sea Safe

Keep Cool

Next Article

Categories

Related Products

Related Collections

Related Articles

How To Cut Your Cat's Nails

Toxic Foods Your Dog Should AVOID This Halloween

Psychological Benefits of Having Cats and Dogs

Are Cats Scared Of Fireworks?

Categories

You Might Also Like

Why Shop With Us?

Free Delivery

Shop & Earn Rewards

Sustainability

We're Here For You