Dog with water splashed on face

Signs of Dehydration in Pets and How to Prevent It

As pet owners, we cherish the joy and companionship our furry friends bring into our lives. Ensuring their well-being is paramount, and one crucial aspect often overlooked is hydration.

Just like humans, pets require proper hydration to maintain optimal health and vitality. Understanding the signs of dehydration in pets and implementing strategies to keep them hydrated is essential for their overall wellness.

So, what are the signs of dehydration in pets?

Watch out for symptoms such as
  • excessive panting,
  • dry or tacky gums,
  • sunken eyes,
  • lethargy,
  • loss of appetite,

and decreased skin elasticity.

If you notice any of these signs in your beloved companion, it’s vital to take immediate action to replenish their fluids.

Here are some tips to help keep your pet hydrated:

  1. Always provide access to clean, fresh water: Make sure your pet has easy access to water at all times, especially during hot weather or after vigorous exercise.
  2. Monitor water intake: Keep an eye on how much water your pet is drinking daily. Changes in drinking habits could signal an underlying health issue or dehydration.
  3. Offer wet food: Wet food contains higher moisture content than dry kibble, helping to increase your pet’s overall water intake.
  4. Use pet-friendly hydration aids: Consider adding pet-safe electrolyte solutions or flavour enhancers to your pet’s water to encourage drinking.
  5. Keep water bowls clean: Regularly clean your pet’s water bowl to prevent contamination and encourage them to drink.
  6. Provide shade and cool areas: Ensure your pet has access to shaded areas and cool spots indoors during hot weather to prevent overheating and dehydration.
  7. Encourage drinking: Encourage your pet to drink by offering water during playtime or rewarding them with treats for drinking.

By staying vigilant and proactive about your pet’s hydration needs, you can help prevent dehydration and promote their overall health and well-being.

Remember, proper hydration is key to keeping your furry friend happy, healthy, and hydrated for a lifetime of cherished moments together.
Introducing a new cat to your home

What’s the best way to introduce a new cat to my household?

Welcoming a new kitty into your home is an exciting journey, but it’s essential to acclimate them smoothly to their new environment, your family, and any existing pets. Let’s explore some stress-free methods to facilitate this transition. We’ll also delve into techniques for introducing a new cat to an established feline family member and address common queries, including integrating cats with different species like dogs or birds.

1-2 Week Adjustment Period:
Moving homes can be stressful for cats, so it’s wise to allow for an introductory period. Allocate a confined space like a bathroom for your new cat for 1-2 weeks. This space should include essentials such as food, water, litter box, bedding, toys, and scratching posts. Encourage each family member to spend time with the new cat, fostering a bond through play and feeding rotations.

Utilising Cat Pheromones:
Cats communicate through pheromones, which play a significant role in their behavior. Employing synthetic pheromones, available in diffusers, sprays, or calming collars, can help alleviate stress and foster a sense of security for both new and existing cats.

Introducing Cats to Each Other:
Rather than employing a one-size-fits-all approach, consider multiple introduction techniques tailored to your home dynamics. Scent swapping involves exchanging soft materials like blankets and toys between cats to familiarize them with each other’s scent. Feeding Friend-zy and Baby Gates methods capitalize on meal times and visual proximity, respectively, to create positive associations.

Supervised Interaction and Joint Play:
Supervised visitation allows for controlled interaction between cats, gradually increasing in duration until they are fully comfortable. Joint play sessions involving interactive toys facilitate bonding and shared positive experiences, fostering acceptance and confidence in shy cats.

Patience and Understanding:
Above all, patience is key in facilitating successful cat introductions. Respect each cat’s individual personality and space, allowing them time to adjust at their own pace. With perseverance and love, your feline companions will soon form lasting bonds in their shared home.

Dog with water bottle on head

Why is my dog/cat vomiting?

Why is my dog/cat vomiting, and when should I be concerned?

Vomiting in dogs and cats can result from a variety of causes, and it’s crucial for pet owners to monitor their furry companions closely. While occasional vomiting might be normal, persistent or severe vomiting can indicate underlying health issues that require veterinary attention.

Common reasons for vomiting in dogs and cats include dietary indiscretion, such as consuming spoiled food or foreign objects. However, more serious concerns may include infections, gastrointestinal issues, pancreatitis, kidney disease, liver disorders, or even toxin exposure. It’s essential to consider other symptoms accompanying vomiting, such as lethargy, diarrhea, changes in appetite, or dehydration, as they can provide valuable clues about the underlying cause.

Pet owners should be particularly concerned if vomiting persists for more than 24 hours or is accompanied by other alarming signs. These signs may include blood in vomit, abdominal pain, lethargy, or a noticeable change in behavior. In such cases, immediate veterinary attention is warranted to identify and address the root cause.

It’s advisable for pet owners to maintain a detailed record of their pet’s vomiting episodes, including frequency, consistency, and any associated symptoms. This information can assist veterinarians in making a more accurate diagnosis and developing an appropriate treatment plan.

In conclusion, while occasional vomiting may be benign, persistent or severe cases warrant veterinary evaluation to ensure the well-being of your beloved companion. Timely intervention can prevent complications and ensure a swift recovery for your dog or cat. If in doubt, seeking professional advice from the friendly team at Pet Doctor is always the best course of action.

You can call us here now on 08 8268 6777
Dog holding snake in mouth

Protecting Your Pooch : Unveiling the Summertime Risks of Snake bites for Dogs

In Australia, there are several venomous snakes that pose a threat to dogs, including the Eastern Brown Snake, Tiger Snake, Red-bellied Black Snake, and others. The effects of a snake bite on a dog can be severe, and immediate veterinary attention is essential. You can contact the emergency vet centre here.

If a dog is bitten by a venomous snake, symptoms may include swelling, pain, lethargy, vomiting, and difficulty breathing. In some cases, the venom can lead to paralysis and organ failure but quite often be fatal.

The types of snakes and their venom vary across different regions of Australia, so it’s important to be aware of the local species and their habitats. Dogs are often curious and may inadvertently encounter snakes while exploring outdoor areas.

If your dog is suspected of being bitten by a snake, it is crucial to seek veterinary assistance promptly.  Please Note: Pet Doctor no longer carries anti-venom so please contact either  the Adelaide Animal Emergency and Referral Centre on (08) 8371 0333  where their Veterinarians are equipped to administer antivenom and provide supportive care to counteract the effects of the venom. As with any snake bite, avoid attempting to suck out the venom or applying a tourniquet, as these actions can do more harm than good.

Prevention is key in snake-prone areas, and dog owners should be vigilant when walking their dogs, especially in bushland or grassy areas where snakes may be present. Keeping dogs on leashes and avoiding areas with known snake activity can help reduce the risk of snake bites
Dog holding snake in mouth
Ticks and fleas

Protect Your Furry Friends from Fleas and Ticks this Season

As the warmer months approach, it’s essential for pet owners to be proactive in safeguarding their beloved companions against the persistent threats of fleas and ticks. At Pet Doctor, we understand the importance of your pet’s well-being, and we’re here to guide you through effective preventive measures.

The Menace of Fleas and Ticks:

Fleas and ticks aren’t just a nuisance; they pose serious health risks to your pets. These pesky parasites can transmit diseases, cause skin irritations, and lead to discomfort for your furry friends. Our experienced veterinarians emphasise the significance of year-round prevention, but it becomes especially crucial during the warmer months when these parasites are most active.

Tailored Prevention Plans:

At Pet Doctor, we believe in personalised care. Our expert team will assess your pet’s lifestyle and health to create a customised prevention plan. This may include topical treatments, oral medications, or collars designed to repel and eliminate fleas and ticks effectively.

Educational Resources:

Knowledge is key to prevention. We provide pet owners with educational resources on identifying early signs of infestations, proper grooming techniques, and environmental control measures. By staying informed, you can take proactive steps to keep your pets happy and healthy.

Routine Check-ups:

Regular veterinary check-ups are crucial in monitoring your pet’s overall health, including potential flea and tick issues. Our team will conduct thorough examinations and recommend the most suitable preventive measures based on your pet’s unique needs. If you’re due for a check up, please give us a call to make an appointment!

At Pet Doctor, we’re committed to ensuring the well-being of your pets. Don’t let fleas and ticks spoil the joy of the warmer months for your furry family members. Contact us today for a consultation and let’s work together to create a tailored prevention plan that keeps your pets protected year-round.

Ticks and fleas

Dog rolling in grass - a potential trigger for ithcy skin

Seasonal Allergies in Pets: Managing Itchy Skin during Spring and Warmer Months

As the seasons change and springtime blooms into the warmer months, it’s not just humans who experience the effects of Mother Nature’s transformations. Our furry companions, too, can be susceptible to seasonal allergies, especially those related to grass and other environmental factors. One common manifestation of these allergies is itchy skin. As a responsible pet owner, understanding and addressing these concerns can ensure a happier, healthier season for your beloved four-legged friends.

Key Points:

  1. Understanding Seasonal Allergies: Just like humans, pets can develop allergies to various environmental triggers. Spring and warmer months often bring an increase in pollen, dust, and grass, all of which can lead to allergic reactions in our pets.
  2. Itchy Skin as a Symptom: Itchy skin is a telltale sign of allergies in pets. If you notice your furry friend scratching excessively, biting at their paws, or rubbing against furniture, it’s likely due to allergies.
  3. Regular Grooming: Maintaining a consistent grooming routine for your pet can help reduce the impact of allergens. Frequent brushing can remove pollen and other irritants from their fur, preventing them from settling in and causing discomfort.
  4. Consulting Your Veterinarian: If your pet’s itching persists or worsens, it’s essential to seek guidance from the staff at Pet Doctor. They can perform tests to identify specific allergens and recommend appropriate treatment options.
  5. Allergy Medications: Veterinarians may prescribe antihistamines, steroids, or other medications to alleviate your pet’s itching and discomfort. These medications can provide relief during allergy seasons.
  6. Environmental Management: Minimize your pet’s exposure to allergens by keeping them indoors during peak pollen times, using air purifiers in your home, and regularly cleaning their bedding and toys.
  7. Specialised Diets: In some cases, dietary changes may be necessary to manage allergies. We can recommend hypoallergenic or limited-ingredient diets to determine if certain foods contribute to your pet’s allergies.
  8. Preventive Measures: Seasonal allergy management isn’t just about treating symptoms; it’s also about prevention. Consult with your veterinarian about allergy vaccines or immunotherapy options that can build your pet’s tolerance to specific allergens over time.

By staying proactive and seeking professional guidance from the team at Pet Doctor, you can help your furry companions enjoy the changing seasons without the discomfort of itchy skin and allergies. Remember that each pet is unique, so a personalised approach to allergy management is key to their well-being during spring and the warmer months.

Bringing Home a New Puppy: Ensuring Safety, Nurturing Diet, Exercise, and Family Integration

Bringing a new puppy home is an exciting and joyous experience, but it also requires a lot of preparation and responsibility. Before you bring your furry friend home, it’s important to make sure you have everything you need to provide a safe and happy home for your new addition.

Safety is key when bringing a new puppy home. Make sure to puppy-proof your home by removing any hazardous objects, securing electrical cords, and keeping any poisonous plants out of reach. It’s also important to provide a designated space for your puppy, such as a crate or playpen, to keep them safe when unsupervised.

Diet is another important aspect to consider when bringing a new puppy home. Make sure to research the best diet for your specific breed and age of puppy. Feed your puppy a balanced diet that is rich in nutrients and protein. Avoid feeding them table scraps or human food, which can lead to health problems such as obesity.

Exercise is also a crucial component of raising a happy and healthy puppy. Puppies require a lot of exercise and playtime to burn off their energy and stay healthy. Take your puppy for daily walks and provide them with toys and games to play with. This not only keeps them physically fit, but also helps with mental stimulation and socialisation.

Bringing a new puppy home is also about the joy and love that they bring to your family. A new puppy is a member of the family, and it’s important to make them feel welcome and loved. Spend quality time with your puppy, snuggle with them, and show them affection.

In conclusion, bringing a new puppy home requires preparation, responsibility, and love. By providing a safe environment, a healthy diet, plenty of exercise, and love, you’ll be able to welcome your new furry friend into your family with open arms. The joy and love that they bring will be worth all the effort and preparation in the end.

Fresh pet food ingredients

Diving into the controversial raw diet

Have you thought about feeding your pet a raw diet? Or heard of other people doing so? Ever wondered what the fuss was about, or if it was even safe? We sat down with one of our most trusted Veterinarians, Nicole, who answered some of our most asked questions about the controversial raw diet. 

Firstly, what is a raw diet?

Typically people think of the BARF diet when speaking about raw feeding. This is the Bones And Raw Food diet. If we think of wild dogs and wolves, they were predators; hunting and catching prey, with seasonal variety. A raw diet simulates what they would get in the wild and is species appropriate. Dogs and cats are anatomically and physiologically designed to eat and break down raw meat and bones. In order to best simulate this, people feed their pets raw meat, bones, offcuts with fur, etc. This would often be instead of feeding dry biscuits. 

Many people say how beneficial it can be for dogs especially, do you agree? 

I do tend to agree with this, from a health-based perspective. Again, if we think of the evolution and domestication of dogs, they came from wild dogs and wolves. These animals were catching a variety of prey, and have been designed to cope with raw meat and bones. 

Some breeds are now very much evolved from the wild dog due to human intervention and breeding. For example, a Husky versus a Pug. I would say that both would benefit from a health perspective, but due to the anatomical conformation of a Pug, I would actually be weary of feeding them raw and bones. Home-prepared raw diets need to be prepared carefully in order for the animal to get all its essential nutrients. 

I also think that some dry biscuits can cause food sensitivities, if they have preservatives or other processed foods that dogs would not be exposed to in the wild. 

When feeding raw, the animal does tend to need to work a bit more to eat as well, which is always a positive for maintaining good behaviours. It allows for more stimulation during feeding. It also helps to maintain oral health, keeping teeth clean and strong. 

What are the risks involved in feeding a raw diet? 

One of the main risks is infectious disease transmission. As we all know, raw meat can be full of bacterial and parasitic organisms which can be dangerous when consumed causing illness. Some of the organisms found in raw meat are zoonotic meaning they can be transmitted to humans. 

Another risk is bones. Bones can occasionally get stuck in the gastro-intestinal tract and cause an obstruction, sometimes requiring surgical correction.  

What advice would you give to clients considering switching their pets to a raw diet? 

My first piece of advice would be sanitation. I would advise people to be very conscious when preparing raw meat and bones, making sure that dishes and cutlery used for preparation are sanitised appropriately. If feeding inside the house, I would recommend a rubber feeding mat to facilitate cleanliness. Hand washing is also very important. If feeding raw, I would not allow the dog to lick the humans as much either as this can transmit bacteria. 

Raw takes a lot more effort to formulate and prepare if doing it at home. It is essential to ensure your dog is getting all the nutrition it requires, so you may need to consult a nutritionist for advice. 

If starting out, I would suggest finding a company that pre-formulates bones and raw food so it will ensure the proper macro and micronutrients. After doing more research, you can start formulating at home. 

I would also suggest having a bag of dry biscuits readily available at all times in case of travel. It will be much more complicated to travel with raw food. 

If giving your dog a bone for the first time, ensure they are supervised in case of choking. 

Closely monitor your dog’s faeces while they are on a raw food diet as this can give you a lot of information about how well they are digesting and absorbing. 

Thank you Nicole for sharing these insights with us. If you have any further questions regarding the raw diet or if you are considering starting your own pet on a raw diet, please do not hesitate to contact Pet Doctor on (08) 8268 6777 and book an appointment with Nicole today. 

Chihuaha

A Miracle for Molly

John and Liz knew that their beloved Molly wasn’t going to be able to live much longer due to an unfortunate case of lead poisoning. Molly’s body was destroying her own red blood cells and she was rapidly becoming weak and lifeless. But all that changed after we were able to miraculously give Molly the blood transfusion that she so desperately needed. 

Finding blood donors in the veterinary industry is very difficult, as the donor often needs to be found extremely quickly. Not only does the clinic need to find a matching donor, but that donor needs to be able to pass a number of tests, and the clinic then needs to be equipped to facilitate the procedure. We here at Pet Doctor are so proud that we were able to make this happen for Molly. 

Meet our donors, Rochelle and Titan! 

We can not thank the amazing parents of both Titan and Rochelle enough, who both essentially dropped what they were doing in order to bring in their pets and allow them to donate their blood for Molly when they were asked. We are so humbled to have clients that care so much, not only about their own pet(s), but also about others. 

As we could only give Molly one transfusion per day. Rochelle donated her blood first, followed by Titan, who donated his blood the very next day. Because of this, within a week, Molly was back to her normal, playful and bossy self!! We still can’t believe it! 

We would like to take this opportunity to remind everyone to keep any and all products containing lead out of reach of their pets. It is extremely toxic and life-threatening to them. Saving Molly was a rare and miraculous event, and we can’t guarantee we could do it again for another.

If you suspect your pet has eaten something dangerous or life-threatening to them, please call the Australian Animal Poison Hotline immediately on 1300 TOX PET to seek advice.

Budgy on a perch

What to do if you find a sick or injured bird

Have you ever found a sick or injured bird and wanted to help it, but unsure how? Birds are often found on the ground unable to fly and appear to be injured. Often you may not know the exact reason for their injuries. 

If the bird has any obvious injuries (e.g. broken wing or leg, evidence of blood) – it will require immediate veterinary attention. Please take the bird to a wildlife hospital or vet as soon as possible. If you are unable to transport it, please contact a local wildlife rescue group.

Most common species of birds can be captured by placing a towel over the bird ensuring that the head is covered. Gently secure their wings, pick it up and place it into a cardboard box. 

It is important, however, to observe the following guidelines when capturing and handling a sick or injured bird:

  • Care must be taken not to restrict their breathing. They do not have a diaphragm and can be easily suffocated if the chest is restrained too tightly.
  • Sick and injured birds should be housed in a cardboard box with holes punched in the sides for ventilation. Putting them in a wire cage can cause significant feather damage which may render them unreleasable.
  • Line the bottom of the cardboard box with a towel.
  • Birds of prey (raptors) can inflict nasty injuries with their talons and can sustain irreparable feather damage if housed incorrectly. It is best to call a specialised wildlife rescuer to capture and handle raptors.
  • Large water and seabirds can also inflict injury with their strong wings and some species have a razor-sharp edge to their beak. They can also lash out quickly at your face so again, are best captured and handled only by an experienced wildlife rescuer.

It is important to remember that birds feel pain in the same way that mammals do, including us! Prompt veterinary attention will ensure that the bird will have the best possible chance of recovery.

Found a baby bird? Click this link for a guide on how you can help it.