Veterinarians

its container and bedding. Sedating your pet is not advised, as this can stop them from being able to regulate their body temperature. No food should be put in their cages, only a water container, which the airline will check prior to departure and at any transit point. It is also best to use an absorbable type of lining for the carrier. You should familiarise your animal with the carrier before it travels so they associate it with a positive and comforting experience. Certain airlines allow small dogs and cats in the aircraft cabin, but most airlines transport them as special cargo or checked baggage in a temperature-controlled and ventilated hold. If your pet is allowed in the cabin, it is best to check in as late as possible. If it is going in the hold, check in early so that it can go to the baggage area and be put somewhere quiet to relax. To prepare your pet, the USDA recommends that your pet be offered food and water four hours before you check in. It’s advisable to take your dog for a walk before leaving for the airport and again before check in.

Visit www.iata.org for information on international pet travel – enter ‘Pets’ into the search box. On arrival in Cayman, you will need to go to the ‘Goods to Declare’ counter and submit your paperwork for the animal. They will ask you to take the animal out of its carrier to inspect and check its microchip. All dogs staying in the Cayman Islands for longer than 30 days must be licensed with the DOA.

Pet Relocation Services For importing or exporting logistics

contact Cayman Canine Training Services (SEE AD PAGE 407), Must Love Dogs, Pack Pet and Go, or Love Your Dog. Veterinarians may also provide guidance and they issue Export Health Certificates.

PET PASSPORTS

If your pet was born or has resided in Cayman for six months or more, it may be eligible for a pet passport. A passport is a useful document to have if you and your pet travel. For more details, contact

Celebrating 20+ Years

VETERINARIANS

Cayman Animal Hospital 394 Crewe Road, George Town Tel: (345) 946 8387 24 Hour Emergency Care: (345) 916 7387 Email: info@caymananimalhospital.ky www.caymananimalhospital.ky This highly regarded practice is dedicated to providing exceptional care and disease prevention for Cayman’s pets. Fully equipped state-of-the art hospital. Fear Free Certified. With 20+ years Island experience, veterinarians Dr Lana Watler, Dr Linda Goodman, Dr Rachel Stading and their compassionate team provide superb medical care with a personalized touch. Cayman Animal Hospital offers clients 24/7 emergency care, preventive medicine, vaccinations, routine/advanced dentals, pain management, critical care and surgical services, specialist consults, house calls, health certificates and complimentary pet import advice. Full laboratory, digital and dental radiography, laser, ultrasound, ECG, cryotherapy, needle-less acupuncture, endoscopy, full pharmacy/prescription diets and more. The premium service, level of care and expertise at Cayman Animal Hospital are exceptional for our small Island.

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APPOINTMENTS: 946-VETS (8387)

EMERGENCY: 916-PETS (7387)

Caring for Pets & the People who Love them

Comprehensive Full-Service Hospital Wellness, Dental, Medical & Surgical 24/7 Emergency & House Calls CBD Therapy & Cryotherapy Laser Therapy Travel and Health certificates

394 Crewe Road, George Town

Cayman Mobile Vets Tel: (345) 324 9050 A mobile veterinary service offering yearly check-ups, dental assessments, puppy vaccinations, exit permits and more.

Island Veterinary Services (IVS) 95 Printer Way (off CNB roundabout), GT Tel: (345) 949 0787 Emergency: (345) 916 2459 Email: islandvetservices@hotmail.com www.islandvetservices.ky A full-service veterinary hospital run by Dr Brenda Bush and her highly experienced veterinarians and animal healthcare team. They have been providing quality and compassionate care to the Islands’ pets since 1994. Their purpose-built veterinary hospital is equipped

with advanced diagnostic equipment, high resolution digital x-ray, blood analysers and ultrasound. They provide complete veterinary wellness care, vaccinations, dental, critical and surgical care, as well as performing a wide range of procedures from routine spays and neuters, to more advanced soft tissue and orthopaedic

surgery. SEE AD PAGE 406

Kman Vets Unit 2, Midtown Plaza, George Town Tel: (345) 640 5838 After Hours: (345) 525 5838 Email: info@kmanvets.com www.kmanvets.com Under the care of Royal College certified surgeon, Dr Colin Manson, this fully-equipped hospital has the latest in veterinary technology. Kman Vets offers outstanding professionalism, knowledge and expertise, aiming to provide a lifetime of support. From annual and bi-annual wellness examinations, vaccinations, acupuncture, laser, endoscopy and pet travel advice, to managing more challenging and complex surgical and medical concerns. These qualified and experienced veterinary professionals are committed to providing their clients with a carefully assessed and accurate diagnosis, a thorough understanding of the best treatment options available, together with empathy and guidance to make the best choices for your pet’s healthcare. Both mobile and hospital-based services are offered, allowing flexibility of care and management of our four legged friends. SEE AD THIS PAGE

ADVICE FOR PET OWNERS

Adopting a Pet The first place to look for a pet in Cayman

is the Cayman Islands Humane Society (Tel: (345) 949 1461, email: info@ caymanislandshumanesociety.com or visit www.caymanislandshumanesociety. com) on North Sound Road. They have a large variety of dogs, cats, puppies and kittens that need loving homes. They are also happy for you to foster a dog or cat, whether for a sleepover or a long weekend, and they will lend you a pet carrier, blankets, food and toys. The shelter is always in desperate need of foster parents, either to care for sick or injured animals, dogs that are suffering from kennel stress or cats/kittens that need some extra care. The shelter is always open to volunteers who can either walk the dogs in the vicinity of the shelter or take them to the beach for a fun outing. They also appreciate donations such as dog or cat food, toys, sheets, towels, and of course monetary donations.

Cayman Animal Rescue Enthusiasts (C.A.R.E.) is another animal rescue organisation and they too have a number of dogs and cats for adoption. Visit www.caymancare.ky.

One Dog at a Time (ODAAT) organises the rescue and rehoming of animals locally, as well as transporting dogs to rescue partners in Miami, Tampa and Toronto. They are always looking for donors, adopters and people to accompany dogs on flights. PAWS Cayman (Email: caymanpaws@gmail.com) works to alleviate the suffering of animals in need, particularly in the eastern districts. They also have dogs and cats available for adoption. Smaller animals like hamsters, rabbits, birds and fish, can be found at Animal House (Tel: (345) 943 7387 or (345) 945 7387).

Pet Insurance Unfortunately, there are no pet insurance policies available on-Island. All pet care has to be paid for by the owner.

Spay & Neuter Spaying (female) and neutering (male) pets is strongly advised. The primary reason is to keep the animal population under control by reducing the number of stray, unwanted and unhomed animals in Cayman. In addition, spaying and neutering will improve your pet’s health, increase life expectancy, and improve behaviour. Sterilising reduces your pet’s urge to spray for male cats, and to roam – which decreases the risk of it running away, getting injured in fights and contracting diseases. If you adopt a pet from the Humane Society, C.A.R.E., One Dog At a Time or PAWS Cayman, they will cover the cost of spaying or neutering and all inoculations. If you acquire a pet from elsewhere, but need

“Where Compassion Meets Excellence”

At Kman Vets we offer outstanding professionalism, knowledge and expertise, always compassionate and caring for both you and your pet.

Wellness Exams Vaccinations Digital Radiography, Ultrasound & Endoscopy Extensive in-house laboratory RCVS Certified Surgeon Acupuncture & Laser Pet Travel advice Hospital based & Mobile Afterhours - 525 5838

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financial assistance, the Humane Society or C.A.R.E. may assist, otherwise it can be done privately at any Veterinary Practice for a very reasonable cost.

There is also a charity organisation called Feline Friends, which operates a ‘Trap Neuter Return’ programme for homeless cats. The organisation will humanely trap the cats, take them to the veterinarian where they will be spayed or neutered, de-wormed and ear-notched (indicating that they have been sterilised). The cats will then be released again at the same location. This is a proven method of controlling the population of homeless cats while ensuring they receive a better quality of life. If you notice a colony of homeless cats near you, please email felinefriendscayman@gmail. com and they will come out to assist. Donations to help their cause are always welcome.

Looking After Your Pet Heartworm disease, a deadly condition, is endemic in Cayman. It is caused by a blood parasite that is transmitted by mosquito bites and infects both dogs and cats. Thus, all dogs and cats should be on a monthly heartworm preventative treatment.

Ticks and fleas can also be a major problem for your pet. Both pests can be controlled in dogs with NexGuard, a chewable monthly tablet containing an ectoparasiticide which kills fleas and ticks when they bite your pet. An alternative product for dogs and cats is monthly topical Frontline Plus which kills adult ticks, fleas, flea eggs and larvae. Stronghold/Revolution is also available and is convenient for outdoor cats as it also prevents Heartworm disease. Regular inspections to ensure your pets are tick-free are essential. Animals easily pick up ticks and fleas outside and bring them back into the home where these pests can reproduce. If your home becomes infested with fleas or ticks, you may need to perform one or two thorough pest control treatments. This treatment should only be performed by a professional pest control company. You should also treat the garden and kennels. Refer to the Pest Control section in the Running Your Home chapter for details.

Feline Leukaemia (FeLV) and Feline Immunodeficiency Virus (FIV) are viral conditions that spread from cat to cat. FeLV can be vaccinated against, however FIV cannot. Reduce the risk of FIV by spaying/neutering them, or better yet, keeping them indoors. Dogs should be vaccinated against Distemper, Parvovirus, Parainfluenza, Hepatitis and Leptospirosis. Dogs attending a daycare must also be vaccinated against Kennel Cough.

Salt water can be toxic if your dog drinks a large quantity of it and can result in hypernatremia (an elevated sodium level). Prevent this by carrying a bottle of fresh water during beach walks. If you see signs of salt poisoning: vomiting, diarrhoea, incoordination, severe depression and/or seizures, take your dog to a veterinarian. After swimming, rinse salt water and chlorine off. If you take your dog on a boat, put a flotation device on them. Avoid letting dogs swim in swampy and canal water as they risk contracting Pythiosis – a rare but often deadly disease.

Heatstroke can occur fast if you leave your pet in the car. Avoid long walks during the middle of the day, have breaks during walks and always have fresh water on hand. Be aware that the asphalt gets extremely hot and sensitive paw pads can burn. Symptoms of heatstroke include heavy panting, vomiting and breathing difficulties. If you suspect your dog has heatstroke, take the animal to a vet immediately as it could be fatal.

Insect stings are common here. Curious dogs can be stung by scorpions, bees and other insects. If you notice any swelling around your dog’s face, or other parts of its body, take it to a veterinarian as soon as possible.

Rules for Responsible Pet Ownership Failure to keep a dog on a lead in a public place is an offence and liable, on summary conviction, to a fine of CI$500 and three months in prison. A dog should only be off of a lead if they are confined to the owner’s

...even Lil Brutes!

property. If a dog is dangerously out of control in a public place or is responsible for injuring any person or domestic animal, you will be liable for the cost of the damages or injuries, a fine of CI$4,000 and six months imprisonment. People in charge of a dog in a public place are also responsible for cleaning up after their animal. Failure to remove the faeces is an offence and you will be liable to a CI$2,000 fine. By law, a person shall not keep a dog over the age of four months unless they hold a dog license specific to that dog. These can be obtained from the DOA at 181 Lottery Road in Lower Valley. Visit www.caymanresident. com for more information.

Hurricanes & Pets It is important to make preparations for your pets before hurricane season. During a hurricane, public pet-friendly shelters are setup at John Gray High School and Clifton Hunter High School. Space allocation is on a first-come, first-serve basis, so it is important to have a backup plan for yourself and your pet. Remember, if it is not safe for you, it is not safe for your pet. Never leave pets outside. You can alternatively call one of the kennels or pet sitters. You could also ask at your workplace to see if they allow pets.

Before the storm hits, make sure your pet has a current ID tag, microchip, and that you have the following in airtight plastic bags: current photos for identification (in case you are separated), medical record copies, medications and food. A pet carrier or crate should be outfitted with newspapers, blankets, cat litter, a water bowl or water dripping device, a favourite toy and have proper identification affixed to the outside of the crate. Stock up on at least a month’s worth of food, water, pet supplies and medication.

If you are leaving the Island with your pet, you will need to obtain a travel health certificate from your veterinarian, which can be issued in one day. Your veterinarian will require the following documents for a health certificate: your address, your destination address, vaccine history, rabies vaccine certificates and copies of your pet’s rabies titre blood tests. If you leave the Island with your pet without their current rabies travel paperwork, you will be subjected to the Government’s import requirements when returning. After obtaining your completed health certificate, hand-deliver it to the DOA to have your exit permit issued. Your pet cannot travel on a veterinary health certificate alone. If your home is a safe refuge during a storm, consider fostering an animal in need.

Dog Trainers

Cayman Canine Training Services Kenneth Morgan 94 Tuscany Drive, Savannah Tel: (345) 916 2075 Email: dogtrainer@candw.ky www.dogtrainer.ky One-on-one or group behavioural and obedience training (group sessions for six weeks, two lessons per week, for CI$360; or private one hour sessions for CI$75 at your home, or CI$75 to bring your dog for the day to his home for specialised training and social play); beginners and advanced training; dog walking/sitting while at work or vacation; vet visits; beach training; how to care for your dog. Kenneth also offers advice on how to understand dog’s body language, barks and behaviour, and he is particularly good at solving difficult problems. Additionally, Kenneth offers a service whereby he will make sure your pet is looked after, either on a visitation or live-in basis while you are on vacation. CI$30 per day for day care play and CI$40 for overnight boarding. You can find Cayman Canine Training Services on

Facebook. SEE AD THIS PAGE

Kennels & Pet Sitting

Best Friends Bed & Biscuit Play & Stay Pet Care/Liz Walker 89 Phelan Close, off South Church Street, GT Tel: (345) 925 6719 Email: ewalker@candw.ky Takes small dogs (maximum of 25lbs) for overnight boarding and day care. Dogs must be on a flea and tick programme. Liz charges CI$35 for overnight boarding or CI$15 for day care. The dogs are walked on the beach daily and have the run of her house and garden. During school holidays she gets booked up months in advance so book with her as soon as you have your dates.

Cay 9 Resort & Spa 73 MacLendon Drive, George Town Tel: (345) 769 3647

Cayman Pet Paradise 46 Ranch Road, Savannah Tel: (345) 947 1334 Email: caymanpetparadise@gmail.com www.caymanpetparadise.com A full-service kennel with 40+ open air kennels, nine of which are oversized to accommodate multiple dogs from the same family and eight double kennels. There is a cattery with 13 large kennels. Expect to pay about CI$25-CI$30 per night for dogs and CI$20 for cats. Day care services for dogs is offered for CI$15, where dogs are exercised and allowed supervised socialising with other dogs. All animal’s vaccinations must be up-to-date, including

Individual and group training In-home consultation Boarding Doggy day care Pet relocation

Kenneth Morgan

Mobile (345) 916-2075 Email dogtrainer@candw.ky Website dogtrainer.ky Facebook dogtrainercayman

kennel cough. They also have the Island’s only pet crematorium. All dogs should be given Heartguard medication monthly and all cats and dogs should be treated for ticks and fleas with a monthly top spot type treatment. Cayman Pet Paradise stocks Fiproguard Plus, a generic version of Frontline Plus that is just as effective and much less expensive.

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Just Like Home Dogsitters Tel: (345) 938 2587 Email: jo@justlikehomecayman.net Just Like Home offers homely doggy daycare facilities and other services including bathing and grooming.

Petopia Resort & Spa Tel: (345) 926 1990 A full-service animal care facility dedicated to providing quality care for your pets.

Pet Grooming & Pampering You can drop your dog or cat off with the following companies: Must Love Dogs (Tel: (345) 746 7222) offers full grooming services including dental, gland hygiene, nail trimming and more. Cayman Pet Paradise (Tel: (345) 947 1334) provides a full grooming service including trimming, bathing, blow drying and more. Cay 9 Resort and Spa (Tel: (345) 769 3647) also offer grooming services. Petopia Resort & Spa (Tel: (345) 926 1990) provides bathing and grooming for dogs and cats. You can also contact Melanie Hulse (Tel: (345) 916 7268 or email: melhulse@gmail.com) who

works out of Island Veterinary Services.

Pet-Friendly Staycations One of the most difficult parts of planning a staycation is figuring out who is going to take care of your pets. The Kimpton Seafire

Resort + Spa, and The Grand Cayman Marriott Beach Resort on Seven Mile Beach both offer pet-friendly accommodations. The Cottages in East End, are also pet-friendly, cosy and relaxing.

The Kimpton Seafire Resort +Spa 60 Tanager Way, Seven Mile Beach Tel: (345) 746 0000 www.seafireresortandspa.com

Boarding kennels for dogs, cats and family pets

Doggie Daycare

Doggie Grooming

Fiproguard Plus Flea & Tick ©Control Now Available

OPEN:

7am-5:30 Mon - Fri • 7am-12pm Sat Closed Sunday & Holidays

Pet Cremation Services

Call: 947-1334 or 926-2264

46 Ranch Rd, Savannah

The Grand Cayman Marriott Beach Resort 389 West Bay Road, Seven Mile Beach Tel: (345) 949 0088 www.marriottgrandcaymanbeachhouse.com

The Cottages Austin Connolly Rd, Queen’s Highway, East End Tel: (345) 916 4894 Email: stay@thecottagescayman.com A bed and breakfast offering 10 cottages with their own private view of the ocean.

LOST & INJURED PETS & WILDLIFE

Lost pets are usually picked up by either

the Humane Society, C.A.R.E., One Dog At A Time or the Department of Agriculture, so they should be your first point of contact. Canine Friends (Tel: (345) 925 3990 or email: info@caninefriends.ky) rescues dogs from dangerous situations and places them with a good foster home. If you find an injured stray animal, you can take it to

Island Veterinary Services (Tel: (345) 949 0787) who will nurse it back to health. They appreciate donations for this service. They don’t, however, arrange pick-ups. All charities and veterinarians will email members and post messages on their social media pages to help find lost pets.

Cayman Islands Humane Society 153 North Sound Road, George Town Tel: (345) 949 1461 Emergency: (345) 326 1461 Email: cihsshelter@candw.ky www.caymanislandshumanesociety.com Open 365 days of the year, Monday, Tuesday and Friday 11am-5pm, Wednesday and Thursday 11am-1pm, Saturday 9am-4pm and on Sunday from 9am-12pm for dog walking.

Department of Agriculture (DOA) 181 Lottery Road, Lower Valley, Bodden Town Tel: (345) 947 3090 The best thing to do is to go to the DOA and look for your animal. Visiting hours: Monday–Friday 12pm–1pm and 3.30pm–4.30pm. If animals are not claimed within seven days, they will either be put up for adoption or sadly be put to sleep.

C.A.R.E. - Cayman Animal Rescue Enthusiasts Tel: (345) 938 2273 or www.caymancare.ky Committed to a no-kill community.

One Dog At A Time (ODAAT) Tel: (345) 917 8284 or www.odaat.ky Email: onedogatatimeky@gmail.com Rescues unwanted dogs from the streets and the DOA pound when at risk of euthanasia.

Animal Abuse In Cayman, abuse of animals is a crime and serious penalties apply if prosecuted. The Government employs Animal Welfare Officers who will investigate animal cruelty, apprehend an individual and prosecute. If you are aware that animal abuse has occurred, report it to the DOA (Tel: (345) 947 3090), the Police (Tel: (345) 949 4222), or email: reportanimalcruelty@gov.ky. If you wish to remain anonymous, call the Humane Society (Tel: (345) 949 1461) or email: info@caymanislandshumanesociety.com.