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As someone who has owned many dogs, trained and shared my life with them for many years, I know how much joy they bring. But as a veterinary nurse, I’ve also seen the devastating consequences when a dog gets into the wrong situation. Recently, Sussex Police seized two dogs as part of an investigation into […]

One incident that has always stayed with me happened several years ago at the South of England Show. A French Bulldog suddenly ran underneath my chair, and immediately, I could tell something was badly wrong. The dog’s tongue looked blue; he was panting heavily and clearly distressed. Instinctively, I went straight into vet nurse mode. […]

June is National Adopting a Cat Month, and as a feline behavioural expert, vet nurse and cat owner, I know first-hand what joys cat ownership can bring, but also how hard building those relationships can be. But adoption isn’t just about choosing a cat you fall in love with, it’s about making sure your home, […]

Every year, National Dog Bite Prevention Week raises awareness of how to stay safe around dogs. While it’s an American campaign, the message is just as important here in the UK, because dog bites are not rare, and most are entirely preventable. As a veterinary nurse of over 30 years, I’ve sadly seen the impact […]

This year marks 30 years since I qualified as a Registered Veterinary Nurse — a milestone recognised by the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons, with a certificate signed by Veterinary Nurse Council Chair Belinda Andrews-Jones congratulating me on reaching this nursing anniversary. Thirty years feels significant. Not just because of the time that has passed, […]

As temperatures drop, many dog owners start asking the same question: is it still safe to head out for a walk? Here’s a handy infographic: The answer isn’t as simple as checking the thermometer. Cold weather safety depends on a combination of temperature, conditions and, most importantly, your individual dog. For many healthy dogs, anything […]

As I drove into The Big Cat Sanctuary car park, I could feel the familiar flutter in my stomach — nerves and excitement in equal measure. I was about to embark on what felt like a truly special opportunity. I closed my car door and instinctively wandered over to an enclosure overlooking the tarmac, eager […]

Cat furniture isn’t a passing trend, it’s a core part of meeting your cat’s physical and emotional needs. From keeping claws in good condition to reducing stress and preventing obesity, the right furniture helps cats express natural behaviours in a safe and fulfilling way. Whether you live with a large breed such as a Norwegian […]

The Respect the Lead campaign has always been about real stories, from dogs and their humans who understand the importance of space, safety, and respect when out walking. Over the last few months, we invited entries for our photo competition, asking people to share images that capture what Respect the Lead means to them. The response has […]

When I first launched the Respect the Lead campaign, my focus was on dogs: raising awareness of why some dogs need space, and helping owners understand that not every dog wants an off-lead greeting. Over the years, the campaign has grown far beyond that, and recently, it’s become clear that our posters also need to […]

For many dog owners, walk time should be a joy-a chance to explore, sniff, and socialise. But for others, like Basil’s owner, it’s become a stressful, carefully choreographed experience due to repeated encounters with off-lead dogs. In this Respect the Lead interview, we hear from a committed whippet owner whose experience highlights the emotional toll […]

I recently had the pleasure of joining Dr Alexia Mellor on her Mystic Dog Mamma podcast — a space for soulful conversations about dogs, wellness and the human–canine bond. Alexia is a certified Holistic Canine Nutrition & Wellness Consultant, and we connected during a nail trim session in Horsham. Her dog was on a long […]

For many dog owners, learning how to navigate walks respectfully takes time, experience, and often, a few hard lessons. In this interview, we speak with Kirstie and her dog Reuben, a 10-year-old labradoodle, about their journey together. From the early days of misunderstanding lead etiquette to now advocating for greater awareness, Kirstie shares candid insights […]

Does your dog proudly wear their lead? Do they have a story that helps others understand why respecting on-lead dogs is so important? Do you want to help spread awareness while celebrating your four-legged friend? If so, we want to hear from you! The Respect The Lead campaign is looking for real dogs to become […]

Reflecting on the seven-year journey of the Respect The Lead campaign reveals significant milestones, community engagement, and the ongoing importance of promoting responsible dog interactions. Origins and Purpose of The Respect The Lead Campaign Founded by me, Zoe Blake, a professional vet nurse with over 30 years of experience working with animals, the campaign was […]

The Five-a-Day Felix feeding plan, developed by feline behaviour experts Dr Sarah Ellis and Dr Lizzie Rowe, is a brilliant way to enrich your cat’s mealtimes and support their natural instincts. Despite its catchy name, the plan has no connection to Felix cat food. Instead, “Felix” pays homage to the Latin word for cat (felis), […]

In October I had the fantastic opportunity to attend a Careers Fair at The Forest School in Horsham. This was part of their careers speed networking event for Year 10 pupils, aimed at introducing students to a variety of professions and sparking inspiration for their futures. I was thrilled to represent the veterinary nursing profession […]

In our fast-paced, ever-changing world, it’s no surprise that stress is on the rise—for us and our pets alike. But what about our feline companions? While cats may seem self-sufficient and low maintenance, they too can suffer from stress, anxiety, and even depression when their environments fail to meet their needs. An enriched environment is […]

Whether you’re a blog owner, a publication editor, or a business in the pet industry, having expertly crafted articles and blog posts can set you apart from the competition. This is where The Friendly Pet Nurse comes in, offering writing services tailored to your needs. Why Quality Content Matters Offering engaging and informative content can […]

One of the most common concerns I hear from my feline consultations is about toileting issues. This can be frustrating for owners, but understanding the reasons behind this behaviour is key to resolving the issue. Let’s talk stressors, litter trays and what may be going on with your cat… One cat requires two litter trays […]

As a proud member of the Canine & Feline Behaviour Association (CFBA), I am deeply committed to understanding and improving the lives of our pet cats. Dedicated to promoting positive behaviour and fostering harmonious relationships between humans and their feline companions, the CFBA serves as a beacon of knowledge and expertise in the field of […]

Did you know, a lot of my cat behaviour queries are from multi-cat households? If there are issues of aggression or conflict among the cats, a behaviourist such as myself, can observe and analyse the interactions between them. I am trained to understand feline behaviour and can assess the dynamics of the individual personalities of […]

Nationwide Campaign Promoting Responsible Dog Ownership Takes Centre Stage In a remarkable stride towards promoting responsible dog ownership and fostering safer interactions between our four-legged friends, the nationwide campaign “Respect The Lead” has recently garnered widespread coverage in Wales. Founded by Zoe Blake, a dedicated and qualified veterinary nurse, the campaign addresses the vital importance […]

Is your dog obsessed with retrieving a ball? Do you spend hours at the park? If you were to visit your local park, I guarantee you’d see someone with a ball chucker and a dog spinning excitedly expecting the ball. They enjoy the chase, the serotonin, and the process of retrieving. However, have you ever […]

Why does cat obesity matter? Obesity is a major health concern. What many pet owners don’t understand is what is going on inside your overweight pet’s body that will affect its day-to-day life and make its future considerably shorter. 49% of veterinary professionals say they’ve seen an increase in pet obesity in the last two […]

Previous PDSA PAW Reports have consistently found that the majority of owners perceive their pet to be an ideal weight, however in contrast, findings from their survey in 2023 show that, on average, veterinary professionals estimate that 46% of dogs are overweight. Similarly, UK Pet Food spoke to veterinary professionals, and they found that 50% […]

It has been a busy month as always within The Friendly Pet Nurse team and we wanted to share some recent highlights. Clipping, not just cats When it comes to grooming and clipping hair it’s not just cats that require some of my attention but guinea pigs too. In fact, any long-haired pet can benefit […]

This year’s Rabbit Awareness Week 2023 theme is Neutering: Protect and Prevent! Having owned rabbits for over 8 years I can highly recommend ensuring your rabbits are neutered. Starting young Rabbits can reach sexual maturity from three months old, have a litter every 30 days and have, on average, four babies in a litter! They […]

2023 Veterinary Nursing Awareness Month’s theme was Empowerment. The campaign ran over May each year and was launched back in 2005 by the BVNA to spread the word to, those not only in the veterinary profession but also pet owners, about the importance of Veterinary Nurses (VNs), their role and how much they indeed do! […]

Last month I was a guest on the Sounding Out Horsham podcast, here are some pet care Q&As following on from the podcast that discuss cat and dog behaviour with questions from their listeners: Cat Question: We rescued our cat when he was six months old, he has always been a dribbler, but he seems […]

I launched Respect The Lead 5 years ago this month and it’s had so much coverage in that time, but there are still so many to be reached! Last year I had the pleasure of appearing on Sounding Out Horsham, a local podcast about local people, and I discussed the campaign. This year I’m heading […]

Cats in most situations like to feel in control of all aspects of day-to-day life. When it comes to human-cat contact this key resource is overlooked because we “all love our pets” but as cat owners, we often get over-affectionate, for example, we pick them up, cuddle them close, and kiss their faces. When it […]

Having already covered water and sleep in our Cat Key Resources series of blogs, it feels right to move on to food. However, this is a very loaded subject as there are many different options when it comes to fresh food, meat, content, wet vs dry and more. So, when I talk about cat food […]

Did you know cats should be sleeping for 12-15 hours per day? But I bet when you read that you thought it was more. Why do they only need that much when dogs need 16-18 hours per day? This goes back to cats’ necessity to be free roaming, they would spend the rest of the […]

Having discussed cats hunting ability and their need to play I have already highlighted how nothing has changed over thousands of years of domestication. From chasing prey to scratching, cats are complicated, and one other key resource is their need to scent mark their territory. Cats are born with the ability to interpret scent profiles […]

I’ve discussed litter, water, and the need to scratch and alongside these other key resources is play. Cats are born with the ability to fulfil their predatory prey needs by hunting. Nothing has been done to eliminate this from cats since they have been domesticated in our homes. It may seem like your bundle of […]

Having already covered other cat key resources such as litter and scratching it’s important to think of the basic needs such as what cats should eat and drink. First, let’s discuss water and why cats do that annoying thing of sometimes drinking the slightly green rainwater outside or the dripping tap in your bathroom… Give […]

As part of my preventative care ethos, I am working through the day-to-day things our pet cats need to keep them healthy, happy and a little more stress-free. Ensuring they lead a happy life can give them a longer life and benefit not only them but us too. Having blogged about litter, I’m going to […]

In the coming months, I’m going to be covering some of our pet cats’ key resources. These resources at the things they require day to day and to ensure they are healthy and happy. It is part of my preventative care as a vet nurse. Setting up your pet and continuing to look after it […]

June 27th to July 1st is Rabbit Awareness Week, or RAW fest 2022. This year’s theme is ‘Room for Rabbits’, talking about their environment. But I also want to discuss the key elements of all my work; education and prevention. So let’s talk about pet rabbits and what we can do as owners, or as […]

Having been a Veterinary Nurse (VN) for some time now, it might be a good time, to reflect. Especially with Veterinary Nursing Awareness Month, a time to shine a light on those of us in the VN role, shout about what it is we do and help others understand. Also, perhaps, look to the future […]

If you have had the pleasure of using our cat sitting services you may have already met our regular cat-sitter Leisa. A friend and trusted companion for over 35 years, Leisa is a great addition to The Friendly Pet Nurse team. So here is a bit more about her, her experiences and her love of […]

Are you puzzle feeding your cat? If not perhaps you may have heard the phrases ‘slow feeding’ or ‘enriched play feeding’ because these are also of the same theme. It’s all about challenging your cat and getting them to use those amazing skills they have. Let me explain. Feline behaviour when eating We all know […]

It is with great pride that I announce I have successfully passed, with distinction, my Advanced Diploma in Applied Animal Behaviour, Feline, Level 5 from Compass Education and Training. So, 3 years and over 400 hours of study, I’m through! As you all know, this also included working as a veterinary nurse for VetCheck in […]

February is National Cat Health Month as all of you all know I specialise in feline behaviour, in addition to having three furry felines of my own! In addition to being rescue cats, my cats all have varying issues, from arthritis to digestion problems. However, each has been on a journey and have shown me […]

You may have read about Fluffy, the mysterious wonder. Fluffy, my black long-haired cat disappeared for over five months when we moved house. Towards the end of this time, thinking she might never return, or find her, we searched for another rescue cat to join our family. Millie, a long-haired tabby cat, was pregnant when […]

Do you remember Rosy the Bengal cat that I gave some behavioural advice for a ‘big’ house move? Well, I am pleased to say that Rosy undertook her 1,000-mile journey from Ontario to Nova Scotia which spanned 18hrs of travel with an overnight motel stay. Her owner, Lisa, was really concerned for her welfare and […]

When I’m not working as The Friendly Pet Nurse, I also work as a vet nurse for several other local veterinary practices, but with the pandemic, my regular customer services, such as cat-sitting, behavioural consultants and pet visits have had to change. I also have to juggle work with parenting, as any shifts, I work […]

Fleas are a problem all year round but especially during the months we have our heating on. Prevention is key, treat your pet, wash and hoover. Here is a helpful infographic to explain why:   Flea Facts Only 1 in 100 fleas are seen by owners. If untreated, they can cause skin irritations, discomfort, tapeworm […]

If you are walking your dog in a public space the UK law states it cannot be ‘dangerously out of control’ so a collar, lead or harness is a good idea, not only so your dog is safe, but also to respect the law and other people and their dogs around you. Look out for […]

Did you know, the average cat will go to the toilet 3-5 times a day? From 7 weeks of age have a natural instinct to go to the toilet in material then can dig and bury, ie. cat litter. “Evolving from the African Wildcat, cats would prefer to toilet using fine sand-like areas. Think about […]

As cats get older they can suffer from arthritis and joint, bladder and bowel issues too. When we talk about elderly cats we are looking at those from 10 years old, although cats can live until 12 or 16 years on average, not like Creme Puff who lived over 38 years! Cats also experience pain […]

Let’s talk pet rabbits! June and July see the celebration of 15 years of the Rabbit awareness week or RAW. Set-up by the PDSA, RAW aims to improve how we look after our pet rabbits. The PDSA say that 49% of pet rabbits live alone and are often the forgotten pet. So what do pet […]

Along with our family cats, dog and Guinea Pigs, we had our pet rabbit Lucky who’s independent type of living was slightly unusual for rabbit behaviour, as they are usually sociable animals. Lucky recently passed away, unfortunately, a recurring abscess under his eye spread through his body, but he lived to a ripe old age […]

What is a ‘Tick’? A tick is a parasite found in the UK that can transmit infectious disease to you or your pet when it bites. They live off the blood of their host and are second only to mosquitoes for carrying diseases to humans. Why is finding a tick important? They can spread diseases […]

Having had Daisy, the agility dog and Harry, the TV personality, both dogs were very active but were now sadly gone, so all I had were the cats. But I loved having a four-legged friend with me and I was also eager to introduce my son, now a toddler, to a pet dog. Vet Nurse […]

A veterinary nurse has a wealth of information and knowledge about pets health issues, and one of the things I see the most at the veterinary practice I work at is pet obesity. The majority of us love our pets very much, but sometimes we spoil them with that ‘little treat’ that ‘extra snack’ or […]

Grace is my mother’s cat, and like my own pets, she came into our family a rescue cat, but at first, she wasn’t all that she appeared to be. Named by my mum after the character in the books by Peter James, Grace was dumped at the reception where I used to work as a veterinary […]

This month is National Pet Month which helps to recognise and raise awareness of responsible pet ownership. As a nation of pet owners, lockdown and the pandemic have increased the UK’s love for pets, with a recent estimate by Pet Gazette saying there are over 34 million pets in the UK! So let’s celebrate our […]

Our Guinea Pigs, Boris and Flash, came to us via a local centre; Pooh Piglet Guinea Pig Rescue. Based in Haywards Heath, Pauline Dutton has been running the centre for many years caring for new and rescued Guinea Pigs and giving them new homes. We were after a pet, ideally, for Jacob my son. We […]

Following on from a great first interview with Kim and her miniature dachshund Teddy about their interactions with others and the Respect The Lead Campaign, I have had another dog owner get in touch. Here’s the second interview in a series with Fede and her dog Asia and their experiences. Fede has felt so strongly […]

Lucky, our pet rabbit, came to us, like so many pets, ‘rehomed’ as it were. He actually lived with a friend, who sadly, was moving away to a place without a garden, so, therefore, Lucky needed to be rehoused. I was asked if we could have him, as we knew the owners well and we […]

The Respect the Lead campaign continues to gain awareness and coverage. Before the end of 2020, Dog Furiendly came on board as a media sponsor, the number one source for dog-friendly adventures. The team has since been busy, updating the resources, getting to know your dogs, promoting local walking, and trying to aid those lockdown […]

Anyone that knows me knows, I’m always studying! My passion for pet care crosses from my veterinary nurse job into my Friendly Pet Nurse business as I’m always looking to learn more, understand better and help out my fellow pet owners. My particular love is cat behaviour. With three pet cats of own, one of […]

Fluffy is, as you can imagine, a fluffy black cat. At nearly ten years old, our pet cat Fluffy has been through a lot but her journey has also been very personal to me and the family as it may have helped bring Jacob along! Let me explain… Fluffy goes missing Many years ago we […]

This month is ‘Walk your Dog’ month a time for getting out, regardless of the weather, to ensure your pet dog has all the exercise they need. Many of our dogs are suffering obesity with 8% of owners stating their dog gained weight during lockdown – potentially affecting 790,000 dogs. In 2018 the PDSA PAW […]

In the autumn I ran a dog photo competition on my Facebook page, the best photo would win a doggy goodie bag. The page had such great entries that I wanted to pull them together and show them all off! So, the team and I got in touch with the owners to ask some crucial […]

Many years before starting working as The Friendly Pet Nurse I volunteered for the Twinkle Trust, an animal aid charity that aims to help the many stray cats that live in Fuerteventura, one of the Canary Islands near Spain. Twinkle Trust helps feral and neglected cats on the island, and I was specifically there to […]

Many years before becoming The Friendly Pet Nurse I had another dog called Harry. Harry was a Springer x Parsons terrier. I first met him when I donated some food to the Last Chance Rescue in Edenbridge and saw Harry. He had been there a while and no-one had seemed to show any interest in […]

One of the many services I offer to cat owners is help with behaviour. This can really range from introducing a new pet to a change in character and problems with aggression. The majority of behaviour consultations start with a video or phone call. Pre-pandemic, a home visit would also be an option. I thought […]

It’s that time of year again when we switch on the heating and I get the most amount of enquiries about… fleas! How do you stop the cycle? How can you get rid of them? How can you stop your pet from itching? I’ve written a few blogs on my website (Don’t get the itch […]

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 […]

11% of cats had never been to the vet and 43% hadn’t seen a veterinarian within the last year. Book regular veterinary check-ups Preventative care – check for any problems before they become serious conditions Cats change over their life and have various stages which need various levels of care and attention To have regular […]

Recently I wrote about the socialisation of puppies and tips for choosing a dog walker which both highlight the wellbeing and happiness of lockdown puppies and also dogs that need exercise. But how can you tell if your dog is happy or sad? Well, they are a lot like us when it comes to body […]

Seeking companionship or an addition to the family, many of us bought a puppy over the lockdown period. Able to be more at home meant puppy could gain a real sense of home and bonding, staying at home would have been an easier time to be with your puppy. However, many animal charities are highlighting […]

As some of us start getting back to work, and many of us have new dog family members, we may be looking for our four-legged friends to be walked while we’re unable too. But choosing a dog walker needs to be a well-informed decision. As a veterinary nurse and leader of the ‘Respect the Lead […]

Clipping nails for any pet isn’t an easy job, so don’t feel guilty for wanting to book a veterinary nurse to come and do it for you. With the right specialist equipment and many years in the job, I know how to set the mood, hold them correctly and clip them without too much complaint! […]

So you have decided on a new feline friend and want to ensure you give them a successful transition into their new environment. We need to ensure we provide the new cat with the things they need to ensure they feel safe and secure and part of the family. Hopefully, this article (downloadable leaflet below) […]

Cat Ice Lolly Treat Celebrate International Cat Day We want to help our feline friends enjoy their special day, and what better way than a Summer cat ice lolly treat you can make at home! What you will need 400ml Water The liquid from a can of Spring Water Tuna A small mould, lollipop mould, […]

Pico the Norwegian Forest Cat I went to visit this stunning Norwegian Forest Cat who was lucky enough to live within a stunning forest location, not far from Horsham. Sadly he had become a bit of a handful for his owner and was starting to become frustrated and this had subsequently lead to bouts of […]

It is a great time of year for being outdoors and allowing your pet time to enjoy the sun and roam safely in the garden or on long Summer walks. However, please be aware of some hidden dangers and things to watch out for your pets with the hot weather. Sunbathing and plant nibbling | […]

PLEASE BE TICK AWARE… My son came running into me yesterday having a panic that there was a tick in his arm! Having a vet nurse as a mum he’s obviously been taught about these things! The offending tick shown was tiny… the size of a poppy seed. Make sure you regularly check yourselves, your […]

Consultations via phone and video, for all your feline issues In these uncertain times, you may feel a visit to the vet about your cat’s behaviour is not urgently needed, however living with aggressive or worrying behaviour from your cat or cats can make life even harder. However, help without leaving your home is at […]

This month is Veterinary Nursing Awareness Month. To help educate and inform here is a simple infographic about me in my role as a VN.   #whatVNsdo #VNAM2020 #vetnurses Zoe Blake – The Friendly Pet Nurse Typical Day in the Life: Nursing inpatients Consultations Monitor anaesthesia Stitch up wounds Bandaging Dental descale and polish Discharge […]

With the majority of us now working from home and staying at home our feline friends are having to get used to us being around in their space all the time. This change in environment can be very stressful for cats. You may have already noticed them scratching things you would prefer they didn’t, or […]

Pets are family We have a large pet family, here in our Horsham home. Our pets include guinea pigs, a rabbit, three cats, a fish pond and a dog, life with our 7-year-old son can be a hectic day of feeding, cleaning, playing and having a pet on your lap ‘helping’ out with homework! During […]

March 2020 saw the International Professional Pet Sitters Week mark its 26th annual celebration of those of us who professionally look after pets and offer cat sitting in their own homes. It also aims to educate the public about the great advantages of using a professional pet-sitter rather than a family member, friend or a […]

The learning never stops… (as well as working and being a mum) As The Friendly Pet Nurse, I strive to learn more and extend my knowledge about animals, specifically pets. Having qualified some time ago (1996) as a Veterinary Nurse with the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons (RCVS) I still find myself in the profession […]

Recently, Rove Pet Services got in touch to ask a few questions about my Respect The Lead campaign. In case this is the first time you have heard of the campaign, here is my answer to their first question – “So, Zoe, For those who don’t know, how would you summarise the Respect the Lead […]

It’s not easy trimming your own fingernails and toenails, let alone those of your feline friends! Worried about trimming them too short, needing specialist clippers, and of course, making your cat feel comfortable whilst doing them. That’s why I offer a claw cutting service, to ensure your pet is comfortable and less stressed in their […]

When working with pets, it is very easy to become so focused on the welfare of the animal, and one of the things which can be often overlooked is the thoughts and feelings of the owners themselves. I have been privileged to work with so many different people from all walks of life. Having recently […]

Having launched the Think Outside The Bowl campaign to help encourage cat owners to switch to puzzle feeders, I was pleased to be able to film a pair of feline friends demonstrating how easy it can be to start making positive changes. In this video you can see a pair of cats using some home-made […]

Fireworks fear As with every year, the fireworks season around October and November can be an extremely stressful time for pets. Whilst we may be enjoying the spectacle of a fireworks display, the flashes and bangs can cause a huge amount of fear and anxiety for a confused pet. Fireworks night is just around the […]

A huge congratulations to the winners of my National Dog Day photo competition which took place over on my Facebook page!⁠ 🥇In first place is Sharon Howard with a wonderful photo of her dog Zuma! There were so many great entries that I also decided to award second and third places too – 🥈Jo Kime […]

Healthy food choices for your dog It is natural to want the very best for our pets. Whether it be making sure that you are providing a happy and healthy environment for your pet to live in, or making sure that they have the right amount of food and exercise. When it comes to dog […]

National Dog Day is fast approaching and taking your beloved dogs out for some fun exercise is a great way to show your appreciation for them. It’s disappointing that an estimated 1 in 3 dogs are overweight, so this is even more of a reason to get your pup moving with activities that will not […]

Recently I had the pleasure of working with Georgina and her lovely trio of cats, Tikka, Merlot & Mango. Thank you so much to Georgina for sharing some kind words about her experience when using my services, which you can read below.   “Well what can I say, Zoe is amazing, really knows what she […]

Currently in the UK *43% of dogs, 62% of cats and 87% rabbits are not insured, the main reason being owners find it too expensive and feel they won’t get their monies worth. It is a subject that would probably spark conversation from all pet owners with personal stories they would want to share. I […]

Sadly current scientific literature states that 40% of dogs are overweight, so with an estimated 9.3 million dogs living in the UK that’s approximately 3.7 million dogs that are potentially suffering with health and welfare issues. Obesity is the most concerning disease of our modern time and causes a range of illnesses and seriously affects […]

With 49% of UK adults* owning a pet we certainly are a nation of animal lovers. There are approximately 11.1 million cats and 8.9 million dogs who are currently sharing our homes. A recent survey* showed that the cost of ownership of our much loved pets is still underestimated. In this article I want to […]

I am pleased to say that I will have a stall at this year’s Funday Sunday, taking place in Horsham Park on July 7th! The event has been hugely successful in previous years and has a whole host of things going on – including traders, charities, community organisations, sports have-a-go areas, Bensons Giant Funfair, Street […]

June 21st is Bring Your Dog to Work Day, making it the perfect excuse to spend more time with your beloved pup whilst your colleagues dote over them too. However, in new surroundings with unfamiliar people, your dog might exhibit different behaviours, such as over-excitement or fear. While having your pooch by your side whilst […]

National Microchipping Month June is National Microchipping Month, which is always a great opportunity to remind cat and dog owners about the importance of having your pet microchipped. As you may already know, microchipping is mandatory for dogs in the UK, but there are still far too many pets out there which are not chipped. […]

It’s always hard to know just how stressed your cat might be. Whilst there are often physical signs of stress, such as urinating outside of their litter box, over-grooming, or a decline in appetite, some times stress can go unnoticed and untreated for far longer than it should be. To help you find out how […]

I am pleased to announce the launch of my Think Outside The Bowl Campaign! The aim of the campaign is to help spread the word about the health benefits of feeding your cat using a puzzle feeder rather than a conventional pet food bowl. Eating out of a bowl day after day is not natural […]

Creating the right environment for your cat When we chose to share our house with a cat it is important that we are respectful of their needs. We need to be mindful that although many are very adaptable and tolerant of what we expect we should provide an environment that fulfils their emotional and behavioural […]

Issues when introducing a new cat to the home In September 2018 I was contacted by a lovely couple who had been having bad problems with the introduction of a new cat to their house. The cats were starting to show signs that they were extremely stressed and anxious with the situations and the owners […]

What is Kneading? Most cat owners will recognise the kneading motion which a cat makes with their paws. Repeatedly pushing and pulling their paws in and out of a soft area or object, such as a blanket, bed, or your lap. Many cats will do this just with their front two paws, whilst others will […]

The Importance of Pet Insurance If your pet becomes ill or gets injured, vet bills can very quickly start to add up. Sadly, many owners find themselves in the position of not being able to afford to foot the bill for potentially lifesaving treatment for their beloved pet. Having the right insurance policy can help […]

As many owners will never have to deal with their pet having worms, it can be easy to think that it is not worth worrying about. However, worming is vitally important to keeping your pet healthy, and should be carried out regularly to help prevent your pet from becoming infected. What are worms? There are […]

Many people enjoy the fireworks displays which are so common at this time of year, but for your pets the flashes and bangs can cause a huge amount of confusion, fear and anxiety. With fireworks night coming up, you may have already started preparations for your pet, but if not then now is the time […]

The Importance of Vaccination Unfortunately, many pet owners do not believe that having their pet vaccinated is important. This can be for various reasons, such as thinking that vaccinations make no difference, aren’t safe, or are simply a way for vets to make more money. The truth is that vaccinations do make a huge difference […]

The National Cat Awards winners have been announced! The National Cat Awards are held annually by feline charity Cats Protection and feature multiple categories including Outstanding Rescue Cat, Hero Cat, Most Caring Cat, and Furr-ever Friends. This year’s overall winner was eight-year-old cat Theo from Redditch, Worcestershire. As a kitten, Theo suffered with a near […]

Taking your dog for a walk can be an enjoyable experience for both owner and pet alike. It’s a great time to bond with your dog, enjoy the outdoors, and get some exercise. I thought it would be worth highlighting some of the best dog walking spots in Horsham. Whether you are looking for a […]

The warm summer months are a great time to get out and about and enjoy time outside with your pet. However, when the temperature rises, it’s important to make sure that your cat or dog stays cool and comfortable in the heat. In their seasonal advice, the RSPCA layout a few top tips for keeping […]

Making the decision to welcome a dog into the family is never an easy one… You think it through, chat with family and friends and consider what impact a new addition will make on your life. Can you provide exercise, routine, stability and of course give the correct care to the dog? If the answer […]

Why should I have my pet microchipped? As June is National Microchipping Month, we thought it would be a great opportunity to remind pet owners about the importance of having your pet microchipped. Microchipping is mandatory for dogs in the UK, but there are still a huge number of pets which are not currently chipped, […]

I am pleased to report that support for the Respect The Lead campaign continues to grow, and we are managing to spread the word far and wide about this important issue, including The Kaye Adams radio program. The original Facebook post has been shared thousands of times and has now been seen by over half […]

About The Declaration As you may have seen recently on my Facebook page, I am proud to support the International Declaration of Responsibilities to Cats. Whilst there are millions of dedicated cat owners and feline professionals like myself who care deeply for the welfare of cats, sadly life can be tough for many cats all […]

As the weather starts to get warmer, more and more dog owners will be heading further afield whilst out walking their dogs. For many owners, nothing beats a countryside walk with a canine companion, but there are a few things which are worth keeping in mind whilst trekking off the beaten path. Look Out For […]

Whilst many people love to have fresh cut flowers and pot plants in their homes, or spend time outdoors gardening, it’s important to remember that some plants can be toxic or harmful to your pet cat. The Main Culprits There are a few plants which are known by many cat owners to be poisonous for […]

Showing Respect Having recently launched the Respect The Lead campaign, I have been overwhelmed with the level of support I have received from fellow dog owners! The initial launch post on Facebook has been shared thousands of times worldwide, and so many people have posted their personal stories about why the campaign is important to […]

Mark Bridger is a local dog behaviourist and trainer who prides himself in offering to help people build a better, positive, and force-free relationship with their dogs. He has helped many dogs and owners alike throughout his years of dedication to the subject. He works tirelessly to offer his services all over the world, whether […]

I am pleased to announce the launch of my Respect The Lead Campaign! The aim of the campaign is to spread the word about how to let your dog interact with others in a happy and safe way, and help raise awareness that dogs are often kept on a lead for good reason. Unfortunately, many […]

The importance of a microchip All responsible pet owners know the importance of microchipping and in the case of dogs, it is now the law that they are microchipped. Sadly, there are still a huge number of pets which have not been microchipped, and RSPCA statistics showed 87% of cats taken into care in 2017 […]

Enter your cat for a prestigious award! Now entering its 10th year, the annual National Cat Awards are always a fantastic event in every feline lover’s calendar. The awards, organised by feline charity Cat’s Protection, celebrate the incredible difference which a cat can make to the lives of their owner. Owners have until noon on […]

Generally speaking, cats do not like travelling by car. But there are times when taking them out is a must, and whether you are moving house or just making a routine trip to the vet, there are some key things to keep in mind. As I explained in a recent blog post about travelling with […]

Even elderly dogs need regular exercise It is well known that dogs age at different rates, and life expectancy can vary greatly depending on the size of your dog and their specific breed. Whilst even elderly dogs need regular exercise, there are several things to take into consideration when taking a senior for a walk. […]

Car safety Whilst out on the road, it is not uncommon to see a dog happily travelling along with their head out the window of a car, tongue wagging in the wind. But what many may not realise is that if your dog is not properly restrained whilst you are driving, then you are putting […]

Shall we get a cat? In recent years the cat has overtaken the dog in being the most popular pet in the UK. There is an estimated 11 million cats living in our households……so why the sudden surge in cat ownership? It is well documented that dogs need that little bit more when it comes […]

With Christmas just around the corner, you may be thinking of getting your feline friend something of their own to play with on Christmas morning. But when it comes to choosing the right toy for your cat, what things should you take into consideration? First and foremost, any toy which you buy for your cat […]

We all want the best for our pets. And with dogs we know that this means regular exercise, a happy environment, and a healthy diet. But with so much choice available, it can be tough to know exactly what is best for your dog when it comes to buying them food. Fortunately, the team at […]

The seven year myth Understandably, many dog owners often wonder how old their dog would be if they aged at the same rate as a human. Are they still in their teenage years? Perhaps they are middle-aged? Or are they already an O.A.P? A very common myth is that one dog year is equal to […]

Fireworks fears As I have written about on this blog before, the fireworks season around October and November can be extremely stressful for pets. Much as we may enjoy the spectacular fireworks displays, the flashes and bangs can cause a huge amount of anxiety for a confused pet. With fireworks night just around the corner, […]

What’s the difference between stray and feral cats? According to recent figures, 44% of UK households are home to at least one pet. And with around 8 million of those pets being felines, most of us are used to seeing domestic cats out and about in the local area. But every so often a cat […]

The importance of having your cat neutered With cats being natural explorers, they will inevitably meet other local cats whilst out and about. And with cats being such effective breeders, most responsible cat owners know the importance of neutering. But beyond having to deal with an unexpected litter of kittens, there are actually several more […]

Is your cat stressed at home? There are many reasons that a cat’s living space can lead them to feel stressed. Perhaps they are a rescue cat, or you have moved home recently. Maybe you have had a change of routine, or have a new addition to the family. It can also be the case […]

The winners of this year’s National Cat Awards have been announced! The awards, held by feline charity Cats Protection, take place annually and feature multiple categories including Outstanding Rescue Cat, Hero Cat, Most Caring Cat, and Furr-ever Friends. This year’s overall winner was eight-year-old black and white cat, Genie. Genie was chosen for helping her […]

Now the Autumn weather has finally set in I am sure like myself many have turned on their central heating. However, with central heating comes the problem that so many of us pet owners hate… fleas! Did you know that the fleas on your pet represent only about 5% of the flea population? The other […]

Firework fear – it may be more common than you think! As much as we enjoy watching fireworks and screaming at the loud bangs that follow sadly for many this can mean a time of upset and anxiety. In some areas firework night is not just a one-night affair anymore, it can start a few […]

Recent studies have indicated that over 90% of cats suffer with arthritis in their later years, I personally wouldn’t be surprised if this wasn’t higher. We spend lots of time with our dogs and so start to notice them slowing down on walks, becoming stiff when they stand after a rest, but what about our […]

Sadly, diabetes in cats is becoming more common with the rise in feline obesity. Be sure to look out for the following signs:     If you are worried about your pet’s behaviour, then get in touch today to see how I can help.  

As you can imagine in my job I see a lot of dogs of all shapes and sizes, colours and breeds. I am often asked ‘What is your favourite breed of dog?’ This I always find a hard one as I suppose its a bit like that cliche of ‘what shall we name our children?’ […]

One of the most common behaviour issues that dog owners seek help for is separation anxiety problems. When working in veterinary practice we are often told by an anxious owner that their dog doesn’t like to be left and its then quite obvious once the dog is taken away from the owner. However there are […]

If only our cats could speak and tell us when they are not feeling well, it would make diagnosing health problems a lot easier. Sadly as this is not the case we have to be vigilant towards our cats behaviour, whats normal and when they may be showing us signals that things might not be […]

The UK is known for being a nation of animal lovers and so it is not surprising that a 2015 Pet Population Report estimated almost half of UK households own a pet giving a total of approximately 58 million pets. I feel that owning a pet (or in my case plural , 3 x cats […]

Christmas is an exciting time for young and old, who embrace all the celebrations and family gatherings, however for our feline friends it can be a very stressful time. Incidents of cystitis can be very common at this festive period as cats find it hard to adapt to all of the changes that await. There […]

What happens if your nails are too long? Do they catch on things or worse still rip off?? This is what can happen if your dogs nails are too long and can be extremely sore if they are unlucky enough to rip one off. There is no one size fits all rule to dogs nails […]

With Autumn just around the corner more of us are taking the plunge and turning on our central heating. However, with central heating comes the problem that so many of us pet owners fear…… fleas !! Did you know that the fleas on your pet  represent only about 5% of the flea population. The other […]

Did you know that on April 6th 2016 it will be LAW that all dogs in the UK will have to be microchipped? It will also be a legal requirement that all details are correct and kept up to date. Failure to do so may incur a fine of up to £500. Breeders will have […]