Easter is on the horizon and chocolate eggs will be in abundance! But what should we do if the worst happens and your dog manages to eat some? How can we be prepared for this if it happens? What does chocolate do to dogs? Chocolate contains Theobromine. Humans can break down Theobromine easily as we have the correct enzyme, but our dogs can’t...
Read More
You may have heard in the news that cases of vomiting in dogs are currently around double the normal average. This has been shown by research scientists at Liverpool University SAVSNET division (Small Animal Veterinary Surveillance Network), comfirming the outbreak that has long been suspected. Currently we aren’t sure of the exact cause, but...
Read More
“Ageing brain disorders, such as dementia and Alzheimer’s, are really hard to diagnose in dogs and cats. In veterinary we group all these conditions under the term 'cognitive dysfunction'. In simple terms, this is where the brain ages and doesn't function as well as it used to. We aren't exactly sure what causes this, but it is possibly...
Read More
Dental disease in dogs is a growing problem. In fact, it is estimated that 70% of dogs (and cats) will have the beginnings of dental disease before they are even two years old. This is a worrying statistic and one that needs to be taken seriously. “Plaque is a build-up of bacteria on the teeth and gums, and these bacteria can easily enter the...
Read More
It finally happened, Britain has left the EU! Now you might be wondering what changes this will bring for you and your pet? To help you better understand the impact of Brexit on travelling with your pet and buying medication, we've compiled a short guide to Brexit changes. Pet passports When travelling with any animal within the EU you need an up-t...
Read More
How do I know it’s fleas? The following are usually signs of fleas on your pet: Your pet is itching more than normal (but not always) You’ve seen live fleas, or flea dirt (small black dots) on your pet or in your house You’ve noticed flea bites on your or your pet How did my pet get them? Fleas are found in warm places whe...
Read More
Ensuring your dog’s teeth are kept clean and healthy is just as important as ensuring the health of our own. If the right care isn’t shown, plaque and tartar can build up on the teeth and around the gumline, irritating and inflaming the gums (known as gingivitis), and in turn leading to gum disease and even tooth loss. As your dog ages,...
Read More
You may have heard in the news over the last few months that Tick-Borne Encephalitis has been found in ticks in certain areas of the UK. Here at VioVet we have put together a guide on what this means for you and your pet. What? Tick-borne Encephalitis (TBE) is caused by a virus that is transmitted through tick bites. It mainly affects humans, and...
Read More
The UK has seen a lot of rain recently. Along with Storm Brendan nearly blowing us away last week, it’s been a turbulent time weather-wise. To be expected for winter, I suppose, but it has made for some very soggy dog walks! Rain is rain and will affect your dog no matter what breed you have, although some breeds will be affected more than ot...
Read More
Put simply, Canicross is cross-country running, but with humans and dogs. With a harness attaching your dog to your middle, you run together as part of a team. With voice commands given from behind, it is your job to guide your dog in the right direction. Is it suitable for all dogs? As long as your dog is fit, healthy and willing to take part, you...
Read More