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Month: February 2025

Essential Autumn Care for a Happy and Healthy Pet

Autumn marks a seasonal transition that can impact your pet’s daily routine and overall well-being. While the changes may not always be obvious, there are still important ways to adjust your pet’s care routine to keep them comfortable, healthy and at their best.

1. Maintain a Consistent Grooming Routine

With shedding often increasing during autumn, regular brushing helps remove loose fur and prevents matting. This is especially important for long-haired pets, as cooler nights might encourage thicker coat growth. Keeping consistent with their bathing routine will help to ensure their skin stays moisturised and healthy.

2. Be Mindful of Seasonal Allergies

Autumn can trigger allergies in pets due to increased pollen, mould, and dust in the air. Watch for signs of pet allergies such as excessive scratching,and licking of feet. . If you notice these symptoms, consult us about suitable treatment options and try to keep your home as allergen-free as possible.

3. Watch Out for Seasonal Hazards

Fallen leaves can harbour hidden dangers such as mould, bacteria, and pests, and certain autumn plants, mushrooms, and nuts can even be toxic to pets. Keep your garden and outdoor areas clean, and keep an extra eye on your pet when they’re foraging in unfamiliar places.

4. Monitor Their Diet and Hydration

As the weather begins to cool, pets may be less inclined to drink water. Ensure they stay hydrated by always providing fresh water. Adjust their diet based on activity levels to maintain a healthy weight.

5. Keep Them Warm and Comfortable

Even in mild climates, nights can become chilly. Provide warm bedding for your pet, especially for short-haired breeds or senior pets. If your pet loves spending the majority of its time outdoors, make sure they have a sheltered area to retreat to.

6. Schedule a Seasonal Vet Check-Up

A seasonal vet check-up in autumn ensures your pet is in good condition heading into the winter months. Book in an appointment with us to discuss any concerns about their diet, exercise, or allergies, and ensure vaccinations and parasite prevention treatments are up to date. By keeping up with grooming, monitoring allergies, and ensuring their comfort, you can help your pet enjoy a happy and healthy autumn.

5 Crucial Ways To Protect Your Pets from Harmful Grass Seeds

Grass seeds may seem harmless, but they can pose serious health risks to pets, particularly dogs and cats. These small, pointed seeds can easily attach to fur, burrow into the skin, and even enter the ears, nose, or paws, leading to infections and discomfort.

Grass seeds are small, dry seeds produced by various types of grasses. They are designed to disperse and grow new plants, but their pointed shape can make them a potential hazard for your furry friends.

Here’s how to protect your pets from the dangers of grass seeds.

1. Be Aware of High-Risk Areas

Certain grasses produce seeds that can be particularly dangerous. These grasses are often found in fields, parks, and along walking trails, so remain vigilant when out walking with your furry friend and avoid these areas during peak seeding seasons, typically late spring and summer.

2. Perform Regular Grooming Checks

After every walk or outdoor playtime, thoroughly check your pet’s fur, paws, ears, and nose for any grass seeds. Pay special attention to long-haired breeds and pets with floppy ears, as pesky seeds can easily get trapped in these areas.

3. Keep Your Lawn Maintained

If you have a garden, regularly mow the grass and remove any potentially hazardous weeds. Keeping your lawn well-maintained reduces the risk of your pet encountering harmful grass seeds in their own backyard.

4. Use Protective Gear

Consider using pet boots or protective suits for dogs when walking in areas known for grass seed problems. These accessories can keep your pooch safe and help prevent seeds from becoming embedded in their fur or paws.

5. Recognise the Warning Signs

If a grass seed has penetrated your pet’s skin, they may show signs of distress, such as excessive licking, swelling, redness, or limping. Seeds in the ears may cause head shaking or ear scratching, while those in the nose can lead to frequent sneezing. If you notice any of these symptoms, give us a call to seek prompt veterinary attention.

Grass seeds may be small, but they can lead to serious infections and may require surgical removal. If you suspect that your pet has an embedded grass seed, do not attempt to remove it yourself. Instead, contact us for proper treatment and ensure your pet’s safety.

By staying vigilant, grooming regularly, and avoiding risky areas, you can protect your furry friend from potential harm. Keep these tips in mind to ensure your pet stays safe, happy, and healthy all year round.

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