At this time of year there are lots of interesting things for dogs to sniff out but some are poisonous, such as acorns. So when out walking give them a wide berth! If you’re worried your dog may have eaten acorns, call us as soon as possible. http://www.thekennelclub.org.uk/health/pet-health-information/common-canine-poisons/poisons-in-your-garden-and-household-plants/

Do loud noises alarm your cat? Are you worried how the fireworks season will affect your cat? Come along to Dowding Vets and speak to us for advice. #FELIWAY #keeppetscalm

Does your dog have a job title? http://bit.ly/2xQ3dKY

Learn all about your cats body language with our friends at FELIWAY – our favourite is “I trust you”. #FELIWAY

Why are cats cute? Because they arrr! Sorry we couldn’t help ourselves on International Talk Like a Pirate Day (who knew?!) https://youtu.be/7Y1mXfpuoIo

Did you bring a bundle of fur into your home this spring? 🐱🐶🐰 If so, it might be time to think about neutering. The exact recommendations for timing vary breed-by-breed so speak to the team at 01427 612188 to get some advice about your bundle of fun.

Worried about your fluffy friend catching kennel cough? Here are some tips and advice...

❗It is currently harvest mite (berry bug) season❗These tiny red mites live in grass and vegetation throughout the UK but are only active late summer time. The larvae of these mites can attach to your pet’s skin and cause irritation, whilst repeated attacks can cause allergic reactions. They look like bright red dots “paprika in appearance. Try and keep your pet away from high risk areas where larvae are known to be a problem. If they contract mites through running in grass, washing their paws and bellies may help to remove them. In severe cases if the larvae are numerous, or if the sores become infected or excessively itchy your pet may need veterinary treatment – call the vets on 01427 612188 to ask for recommendations.

Around this time of year grass seeds injuries are very common. Small foxtail seeds can get stuck to our pets’ fur and penetrate the skin. We suggest regularly checking over your dogs and cats for grass seeds, particularly around the feet and ears where they commonly become lodged. Common symptoms of a grass seed injury can be shaking head and ears, excessively licking toes, swollen paws, and red lumps on the skin. Call the team at Dowding on 01427 612188 if you are concerned about grass seeds.

Following an outbreak of Parvovirus in the Gainsborough area, we would like to advise dog owners that the best protection against Parvovirus is vaccinating your dog, and keeping vaccinations up to date in accordance with veterinary advice. If you are concerned or would like further advice, please contact us on 01427 612188.

We’re a big fan of the British BBQ - but sometimes our pets try to get in on the fun by sneaking a bite of the food! Try to keep foods out of pet’s reach at all times, especially uncooked meat, corn on the cob, onions, meat on the bone and anything salty or fatty as these foods can be unsafe for pets to eat.

SEASONAL CANINE ILLNESS WARNING! We have seen our first case of SCI today so Just a reminder about it. Please be extra vigilant this time of year when walking your dog, especially in woodland areas. SCI is usually seen between the months of August and November; symptoms include vomiting, diarrhoea, lethargy and abdominal pain. Last year we saw a reduction in the number of dogs with the illness and treated many more as outpatients. Although the cause of SCI is unknown there is believed to be a link with harvest mites. Check your dog’s paws and under carriage for signs of these tiny red/orange mites after walks and contact us immediately if you spot any signs or have any concerns about your dog’s health. If you are worried that your pet may have mites, our nurses will check your dog for free.