Preventative Health Care

If you celebrate Halloween, then you’ll know the fun of preparing trick or treat goodies to give out to the kiddos in your local community. You’ll probably even be tempted to give your dogs a treat or two. But we urge you to resist feeding them candies or chocolate (see our toxicities blog). Rather bake … Read more

This article features advice from expert vet, Dr Carra Walters. Photo by Michael Oxendine Have you ever thought, My dog is constantly scratching and biting himself – what’s going on? You may have even carried out all your routine tick and flea treatments, yet your dog is scratching but there’s no fleas? Well, the answer … Read more

Their bodies may be broken but their spirits aren’t. As a caregiver and pet owner it is immensely difficult accepting a disability in our animal companions, but fortunately there are many ways that we can provide adequate care for these pets to lead a happy and healthy life. We need to acknowledge and appreciate the … Read more

As a diabetic myself I can relate to pets diagnosed with Diabetes Mellitis. Diabetes is a condition that occurs when a body is unable to use glucose for energy. The utilization of glucose is primarily controlled by a hormone called insulin, which is manufactured in the pancreas.    In a pet with diabetes, its body either … Read more

External parasites on our pets are more prevalent during the warmer summer months. Specifically of concern is the outbreak of ticks and fleas. These parasites feasts on your pets’ blood and can cause several health concerns. Fleas can cause: Flea allergy dermatitis (skin allergies) Hot spots Tapeworms Anemia Bartonella infection (Cat Scratch Fever) Ticks can … Read more

As pet owners it is difficult to know when we should worry. When is certain clinical signs a concern? Experience as a veterinarian in practice for 9 years I learned the following: 1.Panting It is normal for pets to pant after strenuous exercise, being outside on a hot day or after chasing a ball around … Read more

The moment we realise one of our pets have fleas we go into panic mode. Understanding the flea life cycle is key in managing and preventing infestation. Flea life cycle: There is four different stages in the flea life cycle: egg, larva, pupae and adult. Depending on different environmental factors the life cycle can last … Read more

You need to make sure that your canine companion has been vaccinated and that you get a vaccination card/record from your vet, dog breeder or animal shelter.

Joint problems are common among dogs, especially as they get older. Certain breeds are more prone to joint ailments, but any trauma or surgery to the joints can affect your dog.