There are thousands of abandoned pets in need of loving homes across the country, adopting one can be incredibly rewarding. If you have decided to add a new addition from a rescue centre to your family, one consideration to make is taking out insurance to help towards their healthcare. What are … [Read more...] about Insurance for Rescue Pets
Dental Care
What can I do to help look after my dog’s teeth? A good diet is important for maintaining your dog's dental health. Stay away from dental sticks or treats which are not effective and generally too high in calories; instead opt for raw bones or natural treats (like buffalo chews) which dogs will … [Read more...] about Dental Care
Walking Dogs in Winter
Even when the snow and cold winds hit, it's important that your dog gets enough exercise! Here are a few tips for winter dog walking: Be sensible! Going out in a blizzard or icy conditions won't be good for you or your dog! Shorten walks on colder days, try some indoor games like fetch … [Read more...] about Walking Dogs in Winter
Keep Pets Safe At Halloween
Halloween is a fun time for us and especially the children, but can be a stressful time for our pets. Here are a few tips to keep your pets safe and calm on the spookiest of nights, to avoid a real nightmare! Walk dogs earlier in the day before trick or treaters come out to play - especially … [Read more...] about Keep Pets Safe At Halloween
Car Sickness in Dogs
Travel sickness is a common occurrence, affecting 1 in 6 dogs of all ages. It is more common in puppies, but for some dogs it may persist as they grow into adults. Your pup may come to associate car trips with nausea after a bad experience, with anxiety and stress also exacerbating travel … [Read more...] about Car Sickness in Dogs
Conjunctivitis in Pets
What is conjunctivitis? Conjunctivitis is an itchy, uncomfortable inflammation of the 'conjunctiva', which is the membrane which covers the eyeballs and lines the eyelids. It can be just as common in pets as it is in humans, so it's always best to get it checked if you suspect your pet may be … [Read more...] about Conjunctivitis in Pets
Microchipping
The importance of microchipping We often have stray and lost dogs or cats brought into us to the surgery in the hopes we can reunite them with their family. It can happen to the most vigilant owner - cats and dogs (or rabbits and ferrets!) can make a break for it and decide to go on an adventure … [Read more...] about Microchipping
Seasonal Allergies
Spring is a wonderful time of year, or at least it is if you’re not an allergy sufferer! Whilst we humans suffer from sneezing and sniffing thanks to allergens, our pet’s allergies take the form of skin irritation or inflammation. If your cat or dog seems itchy at only certain times of year, they … [Read more...] about Seasonal Allergies
Food Allergies and Intolerances
Food allergies in pets are not all that common, but we do see occasional cases here at Heathfield Vets. Unlike humans, an animal’s reaction to an allergen is usually seen through the skin, as a chronic itch. Pets with food allergies usually show signs before the age of 3 and may suffer from … [Read more...] about Food Allergies and Intolerances
Top 5 Dental Care Tips for Cats and Dogs
Start Early It is a good idea to get your pet used to having their mouth handled and examined from a young age. This will make routine dental care and veterinary examinations easier and far less stressful for you and your pet. Practice lifting your puppy/kitten’s lips and running a finger over … [Read more...] about Top 5 Dental Care Tips for Cats and Dogs