Safety

Dog Tag Reminder

Remember for the safety of your pet and to keep within the law it is essential they have an identification tag when they are out on walkies.

You could be fined up to £5000 if your dog does not wear and ID tag.

It is recommended that you put your name and contact details but not your pets name as this may assist a dog thief having the correct name especially if the dog responds to it.

Also, ensure that your dog is microchipped and neutered

Flood Waters

At certain times of the year, we experience great amounts of rainfall, rivers can rise causing flooding.

River flows and currents can be severe and make it dangerous for paddling or swimming, even the strongest doggie swimmer can get swept away or tangled up.

Lots of items in the river such as shopping trollies, discarded bikes, plastics, etc can become dislodged and drift causing hazards

The chances of picking up infections are greatly increased from muddy, murky and dirty water especially with an open cut or wound

General Hazards

Woods and parks can frequently contain hazards such as broken glass, tin cans, and other discarded rubbish

Toxic Blue-Green Algae

Be aware of algae in lakes and ponds, look out for warning signs. If in doubt- Keeps your pets out of the water

Grass seeds

Grass seed is a very common problem in the summer months, check especially paws & ears and keep longer coats trimmed

Fleas, ticks, and bites

Check with your vet for the best way to prevent these irritating pests and be aware of bites and stings

Allergies

Summer months see lots more allergies always seek a vets advice about prevention and treatment

Heat Stroke

This is a very serious condition that can kill. If you recognise the signs ACT FAST!

Heat Stroke

Excessive panting

Bright red tongue/gums

Staggering and stress

Bloody vomiting or diarrhea

Action

Keep your pet in the shade

Use a cool wet towel to wrap around your pet

Use a fan

Provide water

Seek veterinary advice immediately

Prevention

Never leave your pet in a car, caravan or conservatory

Walk early in the morning or later at night in hot weather

Visit shady woods and safe water to keep cool

Encourage your pet to stay in the shade and never leave them in direct sunlight

Groom your pets to remove excess fur and have them groomed and trimmed for the summer where necessary

Keep vehicles cool when in transit

Pets can get sunburn so apply suncream

Kennel Cough

A miserable condition that is highly contagious and unpleasant for your pet. Look out for hacking cough, frothy mucus from the mouth, discharge from the nose & eyes, fever, lethargic behavior and lack of appetite

Doggies with Kennel cough will need to be isolated from their friends 7-14 days after the coughing has stopped as it spreads through direct contact and contact with shared toys and walking areas

It can take 5-7 days for symptoms to appear after initial contact

Kennel cough is not usually life-threatening however it can be severe with old, young and dogs that are already ill

Lungworm

Lungworm is a potentially life-threatening worm that is spread by slugs, snails, and occasionally frogs.

Dogs become infected if they eat the larvae in the slugs/snails. This may not be through eating them directly but if they are attached to a bowl, toy or treat

Symptoms are

Breathing problems or coughing

Poor blood clotting which can lead to excessive beading from minor wounds, nose bleeds and anemia (Pale gums and eyes), also bleeding into the eye

Behavioral changes

Weight loss and loss of appetite

Vomiting and diarrhea

Fits and spinal pain

Ask your vet for advice