Boots was first diagnosed with a heart condition about 8 years ago, he has had several cardiac episodes (or wobbles) along the way, but with his ever attentive owners love and care and a combination of heart medications he has proved to be unstoppable!

In the last few years he has also developed arthritis, which progressed to the point of pain and muscle wastage. Again, his owners have taken it all in their stride, as has Boots, so he is comfortable and enjoying life with further arthritis medications and a joint supplement.

The end of the year brings many reasons to celebrate and unfortunately this also brings many reasons for your pet to be nervous. If you have a pet suffering from a noise phobia fireworks on Bonfire Night and New Year’s Eve can make the party season stressful. Preparation is the key when trying to address the problem, the sooner you start the better.

What is noise phobia?
It is an over-exaggerated fear of loud sounds. Whilst some form of response is natural, if it becomes terrifying and distressing for your pet it is essential that something is done.

As nights draw in and the weather gets colder, our focus turns towards osteoarthritis (OA). This is common in both man and animals, but our pets tend to suffer more from the degenerative, ‘wear and tear’ type rather than immune mediated forms such as rheumatoid seen in man.  As far as our pets are concerned it may occur as a progression from a developmental disorder such as hip or elbow dysplasia, or as a result of repetitive trauma or an injury to a joint.

Molly is a 4 year old English Springer Spaniel who started on the Specific S.H.A.P.E campaign in February.  Molly attended regular weight clinics with one of our nurses, Ali, and Molly has lost an amazing 5kg!

She started the campaign weighing 20.1kg, but with careful food management, using the Specific Weight Reduction Diet, attending regular weight clinics and hard work from her owner, Molly now weighs 15.1kg.

...did you know that, generally speaking, the type of heart disease that our companions might suffer from, varies with their size?

LITTLE DOGS are more likely to get disease of the valves of the heart.

LARGE DOGS more commonly suffer from disease of the heart muscle itself.

And not forgetting about our inquisitive CATS. Over 30% of Maine Coons are prone to heart muscle disease, but all breeds are susceptible.

A quick listen with a stethoscope can give us lots of information.

Controlling fleas is a challenge, particularly in multi-pet households and with flea infestations a year round threat, it’s important that you treat all pets in the household regularly to deny fleas the opportunity to survive and breed.

During the next couple of months, we are running a campaign to help owners recognise signs of heart problems in cats and dogs, and urging you to seek prompt attention.  Heart disease affects around 10% of cats and dogs in the UK.  Early detection is a major factor in helping to manage the condition and increase life expectancy.

Molly is a 4 year old English Springer Spaniel who started on the Specific S.H.A.P.E campaign in February.

Molly attended regular weight clinics with one of our nurses, Ali, and Molly has lost an amazing 5kg! 

She started the campaign weighing 20.1kg, but with careful food management, using the Specific Weight Reduction Diet, attending regular weight clinics and hard work from her owner, Molly now weighs 15.1kg.