Tag Archives: dogs

8 simple tips for bathing your dog at home

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8 simple tips for bathing your dog at home

 

Like humans, doggies can get smelly. Sweat, muck and all the rest – so bathing your dog is a necessity. But it’s not as easy as taking your car to the jet wash. Your four-legged dirt-machine can be a tricky, sensitive and even once they’re in the tub (and we don’t mean the snappy dressing kind). Let’s sort out the dos and don’ts of dogwash. Bring a towel. Or three.

 

1. Brush before use

Give their coat a good brush prior to getting in the bath or shower. May as well minimise the amount of fur you’ll be unclogging from your plughole later on.

 

Remember to brush before you wash!

Doggy Bath Time

 

2. Make it fun

Tempt your pup into the tub with their favourite squeaky toy, or even a treat. Standing in a giant acrylic container of water is a fairly alien concept for a hound, so you’ll need to lure them in and keep the sensation a pleasant one, where possible. Remember to stay calm (your pooch picks up on your emotions) and even try a few taster sessions of them in the tub with no water to get them truly familiar with the location. Last thing you’ll want to do is make them associate the experience with stress, so leave any anxieties at the bathroom door. We’ve even seen on social media smearing peanut butter (Xylitol free) on the side of your bath tub can help with anxious dogs – beware this could get messy!

 

3. Cool hand luke

When you’re confident of running the water, make sure it’s lukewarm. Not scalding, not freezing. Us humans like the luxury of a soaring temperature in the tub, but dogs have a higher body temperature than us. Anything approaching hot will come across like we’re trying to make dog stew. Err on the side of cooler.

 

Don’t forget to check the temperature BEFORE the water touches your dog!

 

4. Shoulders, knees and toes (not head!)

Using either the showerhead (on light spray, your dog won’t react kindly to a fire-fighter’s hose-down) or cup, gently massage the water into the fur from the shoulders all the way down. Whilst many adore a good tummy rub, some poochies are very precious and snappy around their stomachs, so be cautious. Same goes for their tail. You should hopefully have already established your boundaries, so build on that trusting relationship.

 

5. Avoid the ears

As well as being seemingly woven from the softest candyfloss in the universe, a doggy’s ears are worryingly delicate. They’re prone to infection and used for pooch’s balance, so treat the ears and head as a water exclusion zone!

 

6. Get the right shampoo

Most importantly, don’t use human shampoo. It’s not formulated for canine kind (think diesel in an unleaded, only much more valuable and furry). Use a vet-approved medicated dog shampoo that moisturises your panting pal’s coat and skin, instead of stripping away precious oils. A bad choice can either lead to or aggravate an existing skin condition. Poor pooch will be scratching like a doggy possessed if you buy the wrong product.

Natural ingredients such as oat-based products are preferable. And make sure the suds are out before the bath is over. Consult our team or your local dog groomer on which brand best suits your breed. They may recommend a coal tar-based product, which can alleviate itchy skin, but it all depends on the breed and frequency of the wash. There’s still debate about exactly what ingredients should comprise your pup-wash, so again, ask your doggy doctor for advice.

 

7. Face facts

A simple wipe down with a wet flannel will do. And whatever you do, don’t accidentally use it to wash your own face. Ew!

 

Make it fun

8 simple tips for bathing your dog at home

 

8. Drying off

A hairdryer is best avoided, given your wet-nosed pal’s higher body temperature. Grab a towel or two and give your pup a gentle rubdown. Emphasis on the word gentle.

 

So there you have it. You’ll have your four-legged chum sparkling and keen to get twice as filthy in no time. Happy sploshing!

 

If you need further help or advice contact your local Young Vets surgery and we will be able to offer you advice and / or if you are not confident in doing this alone we can provide you with the contact number of some local dog groomers to help.

 

Xylitol and dogs – In memory of Ruby.

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Xylitol and dogs – In memory of Ruby. 

This months blog has been written in memory of Ruby a beautiful Hungarian Vizsla, who has passed away due to xylitol poisoning. Her owner, Kate has kindly written this article to help spread the word – Xylitol kills and it is more common in food than you may think.

 

A week ago today our beautiful Hungarian Vizla Ruby died. She was just seven. Losing a beloved family dog is utterly terrible, but our grief is compounded by the fact we might have been able to save her had we known about xylitol.

 

Ruby died after eating xylitol, a great (for humans) sugar replacement that’s being used increasingly in foods. But it is lethal for dogs. One small piece of chewing gum sweetened with xylitol (most are – have a look) is enough to kill an 8 – 10 kg dog. One piece. There are quite a lot of different substances and foods within the family home that are poisonous to pets and this is one of many, dog owners need to be aware of. It can be found in yogurts, takeaways, cakes, biscuits, toothpaste and peanut butter … any food that manufacturers want to improve by replacing sugar with a healthier alternative. If you are feeding your dog a human food ALWAYS check the label and if you are not sure, don’t take the risk.

 

 

Ruby stole two of my homemade brownies. Nothing new – she’s stolen them before from sealed boxes, with no adverse affects – but this time I’d cooked with Xylitol. I had no idea that she should be rushed immediately to the vet to begin intensive, invasive treatment which might – just might – have saved her.

Instead it took until she vomited terribly and collapsed 36 hours later for us to go to the vet. She was transferred to the amazing Royal Veterinary College this is where the xylitol poisoning was diagnosed.

After eight days of battling, critically ill in intensive care, Ruby died. We are heartbroken. What good can come of losing a pet who was the center of our family, loved beyond imagination? We are beside ourselves with sadness and guilt.

 

Only other dog lovers will understand the level of grief. And I would hate you to go through what we are at the moment. So, please, learn about xylitol and the other pet poisons that may be lurking in your home. Check labels, if its not made for a dog to eat, double, triple check it. If your dog is a scavenger, keep a close eye on them both in the home and out and about. Discarded chewing gum, peanut butter in your dogs Kong or Licki Mat, always check the labels. Do they enjoy your leftovers from a delicious takeaway? Some better quality restaurants now use xylitol in their cooking, with takeaways how often do they list every ingredient on their packaging?

 

 

If your pet has eaten something you are concerned about, do not delay, contact your local veterinary surgery or call the Animal Poison Line, at 01202 509000. And no, I didn’t know about this wonderful service either. For a flat fee of £30 they will assess what your pet has eaten and give you  advice on what to do and how urgent it needs to be done. It may save your pet’s life.

 

Spread the word. We need all dog owners to be aware, that this is another toxin that could be in your lurking in your home. We need those who drop gum to know they are leaving a trail lethal to man’s best friend. We need food manufacturers to clearly label foods with xylitol as ‘lethal to dogs’.

 

The Poison Line documents hundreds of deaths from xylitol each year. They think the true figure could be in the thousands. Please don’t let your dog become one of them.

 

In memory of Ruby. 

 

Blog and images by Kate, Ruby’s mum.

Foliage alert.

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Foliage alert 

Some plants such as ivy, poinsettia, holly berries and mistletoe can cause stomach upsets. Lilies, including their petals and pollen are VERY toxic to cats. They may brush against pollen and lick it off their fur, which can cause kidney failure. With the festive season just around the corner, the chances of pet poisoning can become higher. Our Winter Newsletter explains some of the other toxic alerts to be aware of.

 

 

The time of year is upon us where sweet treats are a plenty.

With the cold weather setting in, it’s a good idea to start making plans to avoid a Christmas calamity. From string and tinsel to turkey bones – all of these can cause an intestinal blockage and require life saving surgery. Our Winter Newsletter has arrived and it is bursting with advice on how to keep your pets happy and healthy over the festive period.

 

Winter Walkies : As the cold weather really sets in, make sure your pet is receiving enough exercise. If you have a dog, ensure they are ready for the colder weather. Thin coated breeds and older dogs may benefit from a snug coat to help keep them warm and dry. Don’t forget to do regular paw checks too, some salt mixtures on pavements can cause sore paws. Clean and wash your pets feet regularly to stop any sores occurring.

 

 

 

Update on Lungworm in dogs.

Lungworm are swallowed as tiny larvae, which migrate into your dogs circulation of the liver and travel to the right side of the heart. It’s here they develop into adult worms and really start to cause damage. Our Winter Newsletter explains the signs to watch out for in your dog, but more importantly how you can become your dogs hero and protect them from this potentially fatal parasite.

 

 

 

 

We hope your find our Winter Newsletter full of advice to help you care for your pet over the cold winter months. If you have any queries or would like advice on your pet contact our friendly team for help.

Have you wormed your pet recently?

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Do you know how easy it is for your pet to pick up a worm burden? By just licking the slime of a snail trail can help spread worms into your pet! Some worms can cause a pot bellied appearance and some can cause, in extreme cases, death – this is why it is so important to worm your pet regularly. There are many different worming products on the market. Our vets will assess and weigh your pet and arrange a suitable prescription to help prevent worms. Worming products are all included in our monthly Pet Healthcare Plan if you want to spread the cost of your pets preventative healthcare, why not join today? 

 

Toxocara Canis is a common type of roundworm found in the digestive tract of dogs. The parasite can be found in the environment particularly in parks and exercise areas. They can effect any type, age or breed of dog. Puppies can get the worms passed on from their mothers can become infected whilst still in the uterus. Many dogs (between 10% – 40%) have this worm present in their body and show no external signs.

 

Toxocara cati is the common feline roundworm, again this can be found in any breed, type or age of cat or kitten. The parasite has been found in 26% of cats. Cats can get worms through contact with infected soil, licking fur near their feet, and eating a host animal such as a rodent.

 

The larvae of both worms can move through the body and cause damage to the animals internal organs. Young puppies and kittens are the most likely to show clinical signs, these would include :

   

 Abdominal pain 

Diarrhoea

Coughs

Nasal discharge

Pot bellied/bloated appearance 

If your kitten or puppy shows any of these signs contact us immediately. We will be able to  treat the animal with the appropriately, if left to worsen worms can cause serious health issues.

   

 The Toxocara worm can also infect humans, this is called a zoonosis (where an infection can spread between animal and human). Although rare the worm larvae can migrate into the human eye. Symptom’s can include vision loss, eye inflammation or retina damage. The worm can also travel to other parts of the human body and cause wheezing, coughing or a fever. If you are concerned please contact your doctor.

 

 Is your pet protected?

 We have a number of different prevention and treatment options available so ask one of our friendly staff today and we will be able to advise of the best course of treatment for you pet and don’t forget the most important step ……..

 

 Prevention is better than cure so always clean up after your pet has been to the toilet! 

 Dogs can also pick up a dangerous disease from slugs and snails in your garden, called lungworm or angiostrongylus. It is being spread by foxes to the slugs or snails and if your dog eats a slug or snail, or even licks the slug trail it can pick up the disease, which can cause severe bleeding, and even death.

Vet Matthew Wilson comments ” We are seeing more cases of this dangerous disease each year in Hounslow,  as foxes are very common in our region. Young dogs and certain breeds such as Staffordshire Bull Terriers are infected most commonly.”

You can protect your pet from this potentially deadly disease with a monthly spot on application. This is a vial of liquid that is poured on the back of your dogs neck once a month. We use a prescription only medicine and is dispensed according to the weight of your dog.

Read our Winter Newsletter 2017 here.

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Our Winter 2017 Newsletter has arrived, read it here today.

 

Included in this issue :

Worming worries – is your pet affected?

There are a variety of treatments to prevent worm infections, these are easy to apply and we have a range suitable for both cats and dogs. There are three important groups of worms to be aware of – Roundworms which produce a ‘pot- belly’ appearance, Tapeworms – can cause diarrhoea and Lungworms which can be passed on to dogs by slugs and snails. Read more about worms and your pets here.

 

Fattening up for the winter? 

Shorter days and colder weather means pets often exercise less and eating more. It is really important to ensure your pet doesn’t put on excess weight over the winter period. Being overweight, just like with humans can lead to a variety of health problems. Learn about how to check your pets shape is healthy and the conditions to be aware of in our newsletter.

 

How healthy are your dog’s eyes? 

Your dogs eyes are very complex organs and thankfully function normally most of the time. Read our Winter Newsletter to learn the signs to watch out for and what to treat as an ocular emergency.

 

Bunny Upsets. 

If your rabbit seems to be eating less, it is well worth making an appointment for a check up. A reduction in appetite or faecal production may indicate an underlying problem. Our Winter Newsletter includes the signs to watch out for to ensure your bunny stays healthy this winter.

 

We hope you enjoy our Winter Newsletter, if you have any queries regarding any of the articles mentioned please do not hesitate our friendly team.

 

 

Practice ‘vet checks’ at home with your pet.

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We want your pet to be as happy to see us as we are to see them!

  • One of the first things to help create this trust is to drop in, particularly when your pet is young if you need a reason, our nurses and reception team love cuddles with your puppies and kittens and usually have a spare treat or two for them but we also offer free weight checks. This allows us to keep a record ensuring they’re growing up and gaining weight as they should be.

  • If you are nervous about the visit – don’t be! Our staff are highly experienced and have seen and heard it all. If it concerns you then please ask us , no question is too silly. Remain calm and ‘normal’ as your pet will pick up on any anxiety you may be feeling.

  • When visiting with cats we strongly recommend travelling your cat in a secure carrier not in your arms, even the calmest of cats can get stressed. If you have time, leave your carrier out a few days before your appointment, so your cat can climb in without being rushed. Try leaving a few treats and toys inside to tempt an investigation! Placing a towel over your carrier in the waiting room can help anxious cats – if you need one just ask us.

  • When travelling with dogs Invest in a doggie ‘seat belt’ or secure caged area of your car. If your dog suffers car sickness travel them on an empty stomach. Allow plenty of travel time so you are not rushed or late. Please keep your dog by your side in the waiting room. A vet practice can be a stressful place for pets and your laid back family dog could become stressed and snappy towards other dogs.

  • Practice ‘vet checks’ at home. Your pet is never to young or old to do this training: Gently look inside your pets eyes and ears, teeth and mouth, practice lifting each paw in turn and nail clipping this is something that can be done at home, check out our free guide> Cats and Dogs. Feel your pet all over from toe to tail. Spend 5 minutes a day practising the ‘all over’ handling and your pet will find an examination ‘normal’, when they come to us.

  • If you are coming in for a specific problem i.e. behaviour or tummy troubles write a diary of events and problems. Try to include what foods they’ve eaten, treats, where they have been park , swimming etc, times of day – all of these things may be useful when finding a diagnosis.

  • Please ask our vets to write notes for you to take home if you are concerned you may not remember something that was mentioned or bring a friend or family member for help and support.

We do our very best to ensure that you are seen on time at you appointment time but emergencies and unpredictable cases can happen so please bear with us, our reception team will endeavour to keep your updated if the consultations are running a few minutes late.

Small dog

Epilepsy in dogs

Epilepsy is the most common chronic neurological disorder in dogs.  It causes fits (seizures) in affected dogs, which often occur when they are resting. The fits usually last a few minutes only, and dogs may be confused for 5-15 minutes afterwards. We recommend if your dog has a seizure, they are left quietly with the lights off, ensuring they cannot fall down any steps or stairs. As they can be confused afterwards there is a risk of being bitten, so they should be left to recover alone. Occasionally a dog will have one seizure,  and will never have  another one, but in most cases the seizures will recur.

Diagnosis of epilepsy-  there is no single test for epilepsy so we rely on ruling out other potential causes of seizures. This generally involves blood tests, and may include urine tests, x-rays and spinal fluid analysis. MRI scans may be performed to rule out brain tumours ( although rare in younger dogs).

 

Treatment of epilepsy is generally recommended if your pet has more than 1 seizure per month, or if your pet has cluster seizures (one immediately after another).

 www.youngvets.co.uk