15 Nov 2017
What does this mean? We are working towards gaining our first level of ISFM accreditation. We recognise that there are unique difficulties in bringing your feline friend to the vet clinic compared to (most of) our doggy patients. • Cats don’t travel well and feel unsafe away from home • Cats are highly sensitive to new sounds/ sights/smells • Most cats prefer quiet and solitude and are highly susceptible to stress • Most cats are highly stressed by nearby dogs in a vet clinic • Cats need to be handled gently and with respect in the clinic. • Cats like to feel in control of their environment a…
15 Nov 2017
Dogs and cats are full of energy and that energy needs to go somewhere, otherwise problem behaviours may start and your pet will become more prone to health issues. The great thing about exercising your pet is there are so many ways to do it. Dogs expend energy at the dog park being social and playing fetch. While cats use up energy playing ball and string, or figuring out a puzzle treat game. Even obedience training is a form of exercise. Exercise is fun for all the family and a great way to bond with your pet. How else does exercise benefit your pet? Exercise keeps your pet fit Coupled…
16 Aug 2017
Cats and dogs are very good at hiding pain. If they’ve got a toothache, chances are, you'd have no idea about it. Dental disease can progress quickly through four stages, from mild gum disease through to large amount of plaque, swollen gums, bleeding and tooth loss. Your pet could even become seriously ill as bacteria can go on to cause problems in organs like their heart and kidneys. What is startling is that 85% of our cats and dogs aged four and older have dental disease, so it's absolutely vital that you know what to look for. If your pet has a healthy mouth, its teeth should be white, i…
16 Aug 2017
Your cat's dental health is just as important as your own, and brushing your feline buddy's teeth is the most effective way to healthy oral hygiene – but, as most cat owners would know, that's easier said than done! While there are other ways to make sure they keep their purrfect pearlies, brushing is still best. Brush your cat's teeth to prevent a build up of plaque We know, you're probably reading this thinking ‘How on earth am I going to brush my cat’s teeth? Have you met her?!’ Truth is, you might only be successful if you start when they're a kitten, but give it a go anyway. Here's what to…
16 Aug 2017
Healthy teeth and gums are vital to your dog’s wellbeing. Brushing their teeth, feeding them dental kibble and treats, and chewing on rubber toys will keep your canine's goofy smile in sparkling shape. Brush your dog's teeth to prevent a build up of plaque Daily brushing gives your dog the best chance to have healthy teeth and gums. Introduce daily teeth cleaning to them when they are pups. If you have an older dog, with a bit of patience and lots of reward they will get used to it. Here's how: Buy a doggy toothbrush and chicken or beef-flavoured toothpaste from your vet. Avoid human t…
16 Aug 2017
Written by Dr Natalie Lloyd In May I travelled to Australia to attend a 2-day course on identifying and treating behavioural issues in cats and dogs. Animals commonly suffer from anxiety related behaviour, and one of the more common ones we see in our dogs is Separation Anxiety. Separation anxiety is a distressing behaviour for dogs but is also distressing for dog owners. Almost always the behaviour is seen in dogs who are adored by their owners and therefore, the dogs reflect that by loving their owners in return. Consequently, the dogs are distressed when their owners are absent. At Tasman…
14 Jul 2017
Preventative healthcare for life Regular health check ups are the cornerstone of a preventative health program for your cat in the years ahead. We aim to see most patients at least twice a year. Regular check-ups allow us to catch potential problems early and inform you of the newest and best options in pet medicine pertinent to your individual situation. In the latter years of life these increase in frequency as age related problems become more likely. Every year that passes is 5 or 7 years for your four legged friend, let’s make each one healthy!! Vaccinations Vaccinations are very i…
14 Jul 2017
Regular health check ups Regular health check ups are the cornerstone of a preventative health program for your dog in the years ahead. We aim to see our patients at least twice a year. Regular check-ups allow us to catch potential problems early and inform you of the newest and best options in pet medicine pertinent to your individual situation. In the latter years of life these increase in frequency as age related problems become more likely. Every year that passes is 5 or 7 years for your four legged friend, let's make each one healthy!! Vaccinations Vaccinations are very important and…