Autumn Pet Advice

Autumn is here and while we are out and about enjoying the colder weather, playing in the leaves and coming back to the warmth of our homes here is some Autumn pet advice and a few important issues to watch out for. Highlighting pet issues, which with some preventative measures, can ensure we all can enjoy the season.

Lungworm in dogs

Dogs can be infected with lungworm from slugs, snails and frogs and their slimy coatings. With damp conditions and wet weather, there are more of these creatures out and about and your dog may lick outdoor toys or puddles which have been infected. This gets into their system and can affect their heart, blood and lungs. In severe cases, it can be fatal.
It can be difficult to diagnose as symptoms can vary. Coughing, trouble breathing and lethargy are a few of the symptoms.
Basic healthcare for your dog and prevention is key and simple steps can be taken to help prevent infection. Give your dog a worming treatment. This can be obtained from your vet and can be a tablet or spot-on treatment. There are lots of options available so find which is best for you and your dog. If you are unable to get to a vet or your dog finds the situation too stressful, I offer a home service to help with advice on treatments and applying them. Lungworm is becoming more common as it can be easily spread. Keep your dog’s toys in at night, regularly change their water and pick up their poo as quickly as possible to stop the spread. You can more in-depth about lungworm on the Countryfile website and see recent cases in your area.

Antifreeze poisoning in cats

Antifreeze poisoning in cats is the most common poisoning and obviously during this time of year when car owners top up and refill their vehicles has more occurrence. The smallest amount can be lethal for cats. The message is clear for anyone using antifreeze, mop it up and store it safely! If you notice your cat isn’t themselves and appears confused or wobbly get them checked immediately. Early treatment can save lives. More about what charities are asking antifreeze manufactures to do can be read about here on the YourCat website.

Keep your small furries warm and dry

With the weather turning colder and wetter it’s an ideal time to winter-proof your hutch for your rabbits or guinea pigs. Extra bedding, rain covers, and moving the itch to a more sheltered area are all really good ideas. Ensure your smaller pets don’t get damp and have plenty of ventilation. Also remember to wrap up their water bottle so it doesn’t freeze and whilst checking their water give them vitamin boosting food such foods as broccoli and parsley, but not in large quantities. We can recommend Home & Roost for covers and insulators of hutches.

As always, if you are concerned about your pet, please seek further pet advice and contact your vet immediately.