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PET TIPS

Everything You Need to Know

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WHAT TO DO WITH A SICK PET

When an animal becomes ill, there can be a mixture of physical symptoms and behavioural changes that indicate something is wrong. In some instances, these changes can occur very suddenly, or they can evolve over time. We are here to offer any assistance we can give, and stock a variety of medical supplies that can help.

Unfortunately, sometimes the problem can run deeper. On those occasions, there may be a chance your loved ones need specialist help. Below we've listed twelve common signs your pet may need veterinary treatment:
 

  • Vomiting

  • Diarrhoea

  • Blood in stools/faeces

  • Lack of appetite

  • Reduced activity levels

  • Urinating more frequently

  • Urinating less frequently

  • Coughing

  • Hair loss

  • Itchy skin

  • Stiffness in movement

  • Lameness


If you're unsure what steps to take, please do get in touch. We are here to support and work with you to see what options are available.
 

Fireworks

Small pets and fireworks:
 

Rabbits, guinea pigs, hamsters, gerbils, mice, ferrets and birds all need to be treated with special care when fireworks are being let off. These animals are easily frightened. We would recommend that owners of such types of small animal should follow these precautions:
 

  • Hutches, cages and enclosures should - if possible - be brought into a quiet room indoors, or into a garage or shed.

  • Give your pet extra bedding to burrow into so it feels safe.

  • If you cannot bring your pet’s hutch inside, you should turn its enclosure around so that it faces a wall or fence instead of the open garden.

  • Cover any aviaries or hutches with thick blankets or a duvet to block out the sight of the fireworks and deaden the sound of the bangs, but make sure there is enough ventilation.

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Dogs, cats and fireworks:
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  • Always keep dogs and cats inside when fireworks are being let off

  • Make sure your dog is walked earlier in the day before the fireworks start

  • Close all windows and doors, and block off catflaps to stop pets escaping and to keep noise to a minimum. Draw the curtains, and if the animals are used to the sounds of TV or radio, switch them on in order to block out some of the noise of the fireworks.

  • Ensure dogs are wearing some form of easily readable identification (ID) – even in the house. They should have at least a collar and tag.

  • Prepare a ‘den’ for your pet where it can feel safe and comfortable. For example, a corner in your room with some of their toys and blankets. They may like to hide there when the fireworks start.

  • Your pet may pace around and make some whining noises, that's okay. Let them hide in a corner if they want to. Do not try to coax them out – it’s just trying to find safety, and should not be disturbed.

  • Stay calm, act normally and give lots of praise for calm behaviour. Behaviour in these situations can vary from one animal to the next. Some may want you to cuddle and stroke them, others may prefer to hide under your bed or in a confined space. Just be sure to let them do what makes them feel safe and not disturb them.

  • Ideally, pets should not be left alone in these situations. If you do have to leave the house, don’t get angry with your pet if you find they have been destructive or toileted after being left on its own. Shouting at a frightened pet will only make them more stressed.

  • Don’t tie your dog up outside while fireworks are being let off. For example, outside a shop while you pop inside, in the garden or in your car.

  • You should generally avoid taking a dog to a fireworks display. Even if they don’t bark or whimper at the noise, it doesn’t mean they are happy. Excessive panting and yawning can indicate that your dog is stressed.

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