Companion Life - Autumn 2022

EDITOR’S COMMENT

I’m delighted to present the Autumn 2022 edition of Companion Life Magazine.

Companion Life is a FREE magazine, which offers pet owners information, news and advice. In this issue we highlight arthritis in pets, as well as anxiety in dogs which is common this time of year. Sweedencare features in our Q&A, as well some top tips to help pet owners get through autumn with their four-legged friends. Feel free to get in touch with any features, news, pet products or even pictures of your own pets.

Nutravet makes products available to purchase online

To simplify the process of purchasing, a new website has been developed which can be accessed at www.nutravet.co.uk . The new website not only offers visitors the chance to purchase products, but also has pet owner focused information and advice such as articles, advice and frequently asked questions about the products.

Nutravet have announced that customers are now able to purchase a selected range of their products online via their website.

Following feedback from pet owners, Nutravet has recognised the challenges and barriers in place for some owners who are trying to buy certain products from their range. Therefore, to provide the best possible service for both pet owners, Nutravet aims to improve the customer buying journey by offering customers the opportunity to purchase via their website.

Whilst a number of Nutravet products will now be available to purchase directly they can still be boughtover the counter at authorised veterinary practices in the normal way.

Chris Jones, Director of Nutravet said: “The feedback regarding the effectiveness and the quality of the Nutravet range continues to be incredibly positive. However, we recognise the barriers some pet owners are facing when looking to purchase, along with changes to pet owners buying behaviour. For more information visit www.nutravet.co.uk.

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Companion Life is part of ‘WITH Marketing Ltd’, The contents within Companion Life is fully protected by copyright and none of the editorial or photographic matter may be reproduced in any form without prior consent of Companion Life. Every care is taken in the preparation of this magazine, but Companion Life, its distributors and WITH Marketing Ltd cannot be held responsible for the claims of advertisers nor for the accuracy of the contents, or any consequence thereof.

Two dogs, Darcy and Darla from Liverpool, have been selected to become Canine Cottages’ Canine Critics for 2022.

Over 100,000 dogs from all over the UK applied for this dream job, which involves staying in and reviewing four of Canine Cottages’ dog-friendly holiday homes.

Darcy and Darla, a Dalmatian and a Dalmatian/Staffy cross, stood out with their sense of adventure and their love of travelling the UK, which they also document on their Instagram account, showcasing their excellent photography

skills too. Their owners were also very candid about Darla’s epilepsy and how important dog-friendly holidays are to them, as they enable Darla to live life to the full while still staying close to her owners’ side.

As the newly selected Canine Critics, Darcy and Darla will be staying at four Canine Cottages around the UK (a prize worth £4000), documenting their travels on social media and also writing reviews of their cottage holidays for the Canine Cottages website.

Upon finding out they were chosen as the Canine Critics for 2022, Darcy and Darla said: “We are so excited to explore the UK thanks to Canine Cottages. We can’t wait to try and test four stunning locations and see what each area has to offer for both human and hound! Even better, we get to share all our adventures and thoughts with our friends online. We feel so lucky and truly grateful for this opportunity and we hope to do you all proud!”

Laura Evans Editor

The UK’s first ever range of ready meals for dogs

minerals. These frozen, microwaveable ready meals can be cooked straight from the freezer and served (once slightly cooled!) for your courageous canines, pampered pooches and hardworking hounds to enjoy! The experts at HugMyDog have developed recipes to meet the specific daily needs of puppies, adults and senior dogs, these include Beef with Sweet Potato, Chicken with Carrots and Pork with Apple.

NEWS SNIPPETS

The UK cat market is showing an increasing trend towards buying cats over adopting, driven by a desire for a particular breed and convenience.

HugMyDog has launched the UK’s first premium ready meals for dogs.

Comprising a range of complete meals using prime cuts of British meat, chicken and fish with seasonal vegetables and sprinklings of nutritional vitamins and

HugMyDog has a minimum meat content of 70% and is made from human-grade prime cuts of meat, which is bone-free, does not include grains, legumes, or fillers, comprising just wholesome and nourishing ingredients.

For more information, please visit www.thehugpetfoodcompany.com

Former rescue dogs turned police heroes recognised by national awards

Four extra special police dogs are celebrating after being recognised for their crime fighting achievements by the Dogs Trust.

The Animal Welfare Scheme Awards celebrates the work and success of some special service dogs working within the UK’s emergency services.

What makes the success of these dogs even more incredible is that they all started their careers as stray or rescue dogs, spending time at rehoming centres across the UK where their potential as police dogs was spotted.

Cards collection to support charity StreetVet

National charity StreetVet has partnered for the second year with the small paper brand lil wabbit to create a new collection of Christmas cards to support the charity’s mission to provide free veterinary care to the pets of people experiencing homelessness.

In support of StreetVet, the “lil wabbit x StreetVet Christmas collection” returns for the second year with a new glorious range of 8 Christmas cards featuring nine portrait paintings and heart-warming stories of StreetVet’s most beloved patients. From every sale, 50% of the profit goes directly

Dogs Trust has rehomed approximately 70 dogs in the last few years with police forces across the UK where they have gone on to work as successful service dogs. This year marks 20 years since the Animal Welfare Visitors Scheme was launched, designed to ensure that the training, housing and transport of police dogs meets high animal welfare standards. There are currently 32 police forces signed up to the scheme, and the charity is encouraging all police dog sections, the military and other emergency services in the UK to adopt the scheme.

The proportion of bought cats purchased instead of adopted has increased by 12% in the last five years, according to Cats Protection’s Cats and Their Stats Report 2022 which takes a unique and unrivalled look at the relationship between people and their pet cats.

The third report published by Cats Protection – the largest cat survey of its kind – also found the internet is becoming an increasingly popular place to buy cats, with 76% of those surveyed saying they’d bought their cats online in the past 12 months.

The Greyhound Board of Great Britain (GBGB) have welcomed specialist veterinary surgeons, students and researchers from around the country for its annual Vets’ Training Day.

It was the first time the event had been held in person since the start of the pandemic and provided an opportunity for vets to come together to discuss best practice and the latest research on greyhound welfare.

to StreetVet to cover pet’s vaccinations and treatments.

Hand painted by lil wabbit’s founder Georgi Doig, each card features an original watercolour inspired by one of the StreetVet client’s dogs on the front and details its story on the back. The Christmas cards will be on sale online on lilwabbit.co.uk, Etsy and on notonthehighstreet.

The event followed the launch of GBGB’s new longterm welfare strategy ‘A Good Life for Every Greyhound’ earlier this year. With vets playing a fundamental role in the care greyhounds receive during their racing careers –present at every race and trial and working hand in glove with trainers, kennel hands and track staff – the strategy focuses on their ongoing professional development and access to cutting-edge research.

A guide to... ARTHRITIS IN PETS

Arthritis in dogs is a common health issue, which can affect both dogs and cats. The term arthritis simply means inflammation of the joints and can be caused by general wear and tear due to age.

Pets can’t directly tell you that they are suffering, but subtle changes in their behaviour could help to identify if there is a problem. These changes can vary throughout your pet’s life.

Common signs of arthritis

Your vet should be your first port of call if you suspect that your dog may be suffering with arthritis. They will be able to tell you which joints are affected through an examination. They may suggest further tests, such as x-rays to investigate properly. These will help to confirm and locate arthritic change and can sometimes identify underlying causes. Arthritis is

common in overweight pets and a combination of weight control and exercise management can help to reduce load on the joints and maximise mobility. Signs that your dog may be struggling with arthritis may include:

• Stiffness when getting up after rest or sleeping

• Lagging behind on walks or not interested in walking at all

• Irritable and interact less with family members

• Lick or bite at irritable joints

• Sleep or rest more in easy to reach places

• Struggle to jump into the car or be able to get up and down the stairs

• Enlarged or swollen joints

Some breeds of dog are more at risk of developing arthritis, including, Labradors, German Shepherds, Rottweilers and Bernese Mountain dogs.

Unfortunately there is no cure for arthritis. Once the cartilage is damaged it rarely repairs itself. Treatment can vary depending on the severity of the arthritis but reducing the inflammation

and pain of the joints can help to make your pet more comfortable. Exercise is also often recommended to help to maintain and improve joint movement and flexibility. There are a number of treatments and medications that can help to manage the symptoms of arthritis and help your dog to lead a pain free and happy life.

Anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are often recommended to reduce swelling and pain. However, there are more natural options including Hydrotherapy. This can be an effective for of exercise as it doesn’t apply to much pressure on the joints.

Natural joint supplements often called nutraceitucals are also recommended by vets. These can be used together with other forms of medications and treatments to support and maintain your pet’s joint health.

How to manage arthritis in pets:

It’s important to manage your pet’s arthritis and joint health to ensure they can lead a happy and healthy life with you. Mobility can greatly affect their quality of life with even the smallest of tasks like jumping onto furniture, or bending down to their food bowl being a task.

Weight management

Excess weight can put pressure on joints, aim to reduce your pet’s weight and keep them at a healthy weight for their breed and age. Speak to your vet before starting your pet on a diet, they can offer advice on the best way forward.

Exercise

It is important that your pet gets regular exercise to avoid stiffness and muscle wastage. Avoid long or infrequent walks and make sure your dog goes for several, short walks

throughout the day. Think little and often to keep the joints mobile.

Diet

Feed your pet a good quality diet. Reassess your pet’s food and consult a veterinary professional who can recommend the best diet for their needs. Where appropriate raise water and food bowls so your dog or cat doesn’t have to bend down to them.

Comfort

Keep your pet warm and avoid cold and drafty or damp conditions that can aggravate joints. Provide a cosy warm place to sleep with enough room to find a comfortable position. Add extra bedding for senior pets and shorthaired dogs to help pad around their joints. Try to limit stair use and jumping on or off furniture.

Grooming

If your pet suffers from joint stiffness, help with grooming as they may not be able to groom as freely.

Help around the home Continuously jumping on furniture or in and out of the car can easily cause injury. Install pet-friendly ramps or steps to reduce any jumping which can damage their joints. Use rugs or carpets which are less slippy and can help to reduce accidents around the home.

Key nutrients for joints

Glucosamine HCL and Chondroitin Sulphate are essential for maintaining healthy joints, ligaments, tendons, cartilage and synovial fluid. Boswellia Extract supports the body’s natural anti-inflammatory process and plays an important role in maintaining smooth and comfortable joint movement.

Advice from vet Regular vet visits ensure your pet’s joints can be monitored frequently and the best up-to-date advice can be given. Ensure you follow your vet’s advice.

Alternative solutions

You could consider alternative methods to help your dog or cat, such as physiotherapy and hydrotherapy. These can help to increase circulation and mobility in your pet.

If you are concerned about your pet’s joint health speak to your vet as they are best placed to offer advice and the best solution with regards to your pet’s health needs.

TOP TIPS for pet owners during autumn

With the change in seasons colder weather, we share some top tips for pet owners during the autumn months.

Maintaining your pet’s health during this time can ensure that they lead a happy life. As a pet owner you don’t like to see your cat or dog stressed or unwell, keeping a check on their health and being aware of any dangers during this season can be important.

To maintain your pet’s health at this time of year, you can follow our top tips for pet owners:

Keep up with exercise

Although the weather may be colder, it’s important to keep walking your dog. This will help to prevent any weight gain, as well as stop your dog from getting bored. As the weather changes, you could reduce the length of their walks. Your cat may also go out less so be sure to play with them to keep them active in the house. Exercise is also important to keep your pet’s joints mobile, which can become stiff in cooler months.

Diet

If your pet is spending less time outside or on walks, be sure to adjust their diet to match this. Speak to your vet if you are unsure about how much your pet should be eating at this time.

Halloween treats

Keep any Halloween chocolate and sweets away from your dog or cat, as they are poisonous and could result in a trip

to the vet. Some sweets contain an artificial sweetener called Xylitol, which is poisonous to pets.

Pumpkins

Although they are not poisonous, if consumed in large quantities, they could lead to your pet having a sensitive tummy. If you are using candles in your pumpkins, make sure these are out of reach from your pet and can’t be knocked over.

Reduce stress

During Halloween your pet may become stressed with people knocking on the door for trick or treat or if you have guests round. If you are expecting a lot of trick or treaters keep your pet in one room where they can’t be disturbed by the noise. Even though they look cute, don’t force your pet to wear a Halloween costume, it may be restrictive and cause them extra stress. Consider using a natural supplement to help reduce stress and

anxiety for pets at this time of year. Such as Nutracalm or Vetpro Stress and Anxiety caspsules.

Fireworks

Autumn can be the start of fireworks season, which can cause stress for some pets. Make your pet a den to retreat to during the fireworks and closing curtains and playing music can help to block out the noise.

Fleas and ticks

Parasites such as fleas and ticks are still prominent over the autumn. Speak to your vet about an appropriate solution for your pet. Be sure to check your dog and cat for ticks regularly. Be sure to check your dog after walks.

Safety on walks

As the darker nights approach, if you’re walking your dog late at night make sure you wear reflective clothing. You could also use a reflective collar and coat for your

dog, in case they get spooked and run off and get lost.

Antifreeze

As the weather gets colder, be sure to keep antifreeze locked away, as it can be attractive to your cat. It is poisonous to pets if swallowed.

Provide shelter

If your pet spends a lot of time outside, be sure to provide a shelter for them for when the weather gets colder or if it rains. As the weather gets colder bring smaller pets indoors.

Acorns and conkers

These can be poisonous to your dog. Be sure to keep an eye out on walks to make sure that your dog doesn’t pick anything they shouldn’t up. If ingested conkers can also cause intestinal blockages. Speak to your vet if you think your dog may have eaten something like this.

ProDen PlaqueOff®

– banish that bad breath

Prices from £15.99

ProDen PlaqueOff helps cats & dogs oral hygiene problems such as bad breath, plaque & tartar –naturally. ProDen PlaqueOff Powder is a seaweed supplement that is sprinkled onto food daily. By working systemically, it helps prevent oral hygiene problems, as well as softening existing build up. The #1 Best-Selling product in its category carries the Veterinary Oral Health Council Seal of Acceptance, and in 2021 over 73 million doses were sold in the UK. Products are available in vet practices, pet shops and online. www.swedencare.com

Nutrafibre – natural support to encourage normal bowel movements

RRP £25.49.

Nutrafibre is a natural high fibre supplement that supports digestive health and normal anal gland function. Its scientifically proven formula has been developed to help maintain the gut’s natural balance by utilising proven natural ingredients which softens stool consistency and encourages normal bowel movements.

Nutrafibre safely supports digestive tract health to aid digestion, normal colon function and long-term gut health, helping animals with sensitive tummies.

www.nutravet.co.uk

Pooch & Mutt - dog advent calendar

RRP £7.99

Behind every door of the festive dog-friendly advent calendar, you’ll find two tasty Turkey & Cranberry Meaty Treats packed with added goodness like collagen for healthy skin & coat and probiotics for healthy digestion, as well as a sprinkling of seasonal cinnamon for some added festive cheer. This year’s advent calendar will not only get your pooch in the festive spirit, but it will also get you on Santa’s nice list as for every calendar sold, Pooch & Mutt will donate a special Christmas dinner to a pooch in need at Woodgreen Pets Charity! The calendar is suitable for all breeds and ages from 12 weeks old. www.poochandmutt.co.uk

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What is dog anxiety?

Anxiety can affect all breeds of dogs and even though some pets only experience anxiety at certain times of the year or in specific situations, if untreated it can cause behavioural issues. Understanding the root cause of your dog’s anxiety can help with treatment and improve their behaviour in the long-term.

Dogs can experience anxiety for many reasons and some only suffer with it at certain times of the year. Whether it’s a young puppy or a senior dog, it’s never nice to see your pooch suffer.

Fear related anxiety

This can be caused by loud noises, strange people or animals, visual stimuli such as hats or bright colours, new or strange environments, specific situations like vet visits or car journeys or floor surfaces. Some dogs may only have brief reactions to these kinds of stimuli, but they may also affect anxious dogs consequently.

Age-related anxiety

This can affect older dogs and can be associated with cognitive dysfunction. They may seem more anxious than normal and more fearful of unfamiliar people or places.

Separation anxiety

Separation anxiety is common in dogs who are not used to being away from their owner. If left home alone for a few hours some dogs can become nervous, and this can be shown in a variety of ways.

Seasonal anxiety

There are certain times of the year when dogs can become more anxious. In autumn when fireworks

are being let of, dogs who have a fear of loud noises can become anxious and stressed. Halloween can also be a stressful time due to scary costumes and more people at the door trick or treating.

Some common signs of dog anxiety can include:

• Increased vocalisation

• Isolation

• Increased sleeping

• Decreased appetite

• Aggression

• Digestive problems

There are a few ways you can help reduce dog anxiety including:

Create a safe zone

Make sure your pet has a safe place to retreat to, should they become anxious. You could add an item of your clothing in there that will smell familiar to your dog. Let them come and go as they please but keep an eye on them

Keep your routine

Fixed routines can help to keep your pet calm. Any changes to your normal household routine can

upset and stress your pet. During any stressful time of year or upcoming event, try to feed and walk them at the same time as usual.

Distract your pet

Use toys to keep your pet distracted and focused on something else.

Don’t punish or shout at your dog

If they do something wrong, which could be due to stress and anxiey, don’t shout at them as it could cause further stress and behavioural issues.

Plan

If you know a specific event, such as fireworks or a trip to the vets could make your pet anxious, try to prepare ahead of the event to help keep them calm on the run up and during.

Play music

If you have to leave your pet alone, play calming music to help drown out external noise that could make them anxious. Close curtains or blinds to remove any external distractions.

Comfort your pet

When stressed try to sit close to your pet and stroke them to try and keep them calm. Physical contact could help to make them feel safe and reduce their anxiety. Don’t force them or chase them to try and stroke them, if they prefer to be by themselves, let them wander off to a safe place to hide.

Training

If a trip in the car or being left alone causes your pet to have anxiety, you could train them to get used to

these situations. Reward your dog with a treat and praise them when they respond positively to training. Be patient with your dog and don’t force them.

Socialisation

If your dog is nervous of people or other dogs, training classes could help reduce anxiety during these occasions. Refrain from locking them away when visitors come, as this will only add to their stress.

Natural support

Consider using a natural support to help reduce your pet’s stress and anxiety. There are many products on the market that can support your pet through various helpful situatins, such as Nutracalm or a physical support such as a Thunder Shirt. Your vet may be able to recommend something to help your pet.

Speak to your vet

If you are worried about your pet’s health or behaviour, speak to your vet as this may be down to another health issue. Your vet is also best placed to offer advice and treatment options. They may be able to offer help with training techniques to help reduce their fear.

Q&A

With Caroline Petersen

Nordic Key Account Manager, Swedencare Nordic

Swedencare specialises in pet healthcare and produces, markets, and sells premium products in the global and fast-growing market for companion animals. Swedencare has a wide range of strong brands and products within most therapy areas, including NaturVet, Nutravet, Pet MD, Stratford, RX Vitamins, as well as the leading oral care brand ProDen PlaqueOff.

Dental care is always seen as a key aspect of pet health, but why is it important to look after your pet’s teeth?

Good oral health is just as important for animals as it is for humans. Due to many dogs already developing some form of dental disease by the time they are 3-years old, it can be difficult to prevent oral health problems. Dental diseases, especially when severe, can be painful, and animals are very good at hiding any pain or suffering.

These are conclusions we draw when we investigate and discover diseases and injuries that have obviously been going on for a long time and that have most certainly caused pain and some form of suffering for the animal. Keeping your animal’s teeth and gums healthy will help prevent oral pain and help your pet to lead a happy and healthy life.

What is the biggest factor that contributes to dental problems in pets?

Just as with other body parts, the mouth and teeth are of course affected by age and general wear and tear. Other aspects that can affect your pet’s oral health include, anatomy, the immune system, incorrect challenge, lack of teeth brushing, breed/heredity and injury, these are all factors that affect dental health in different ways.

How soon should pet owners start their pet’s oral health routine?

As soon as possible. The earlier you start, the better. Getting them used to a dental routine at a young age can help to keep their teeth and gums healthy throughout their life.

What tips would you give to pet owners who are starting their pet’s oral health routine?

The most important thing is that you as an animal owner are calm and positive. A good first step can be to approach the mouth and teeth with clean hands. Lift the lips a little, gently open the mouth and simply get the dog or cat used to the touch. When introducing the toothbrush, you can leave the mouth closed and only brush the outside of the teeth. If you get a safe routine for that, it’s time for the next step, which requires an open mouth so that you can also access the inside of the teeth. Good oral and dental health has a major impact on your animal’s quality of life and general condition. Brush your animals’ teeth daily. If this is not possible, smell and look at your dog’s mouth at least once a week and give them a VOHC approved supplement.

How can pet owners tackle bad breath?

When your dog or cat has a healthy mouth and teeth, bad breath won’t be a problem. Regular teeth brushing should be supplemented with a dietary supplement that prevents plaque formation. Always choose a VOHClabeled supplement. VOHC is an independent international organization whose seal means that the product has a scientifically proven preventive effect. The label acts as an independent seal of quality.

For more information on Swedencare and their portfolio of products visit https://uk.swedencare.com/

Nodic Key Account Manager, Caroline Peterson previously worked as a Veterinary Care Assistant and here answers our questions about dental care for pets...

A guide to feeding your ferret

By Emma Purnell, RVN Cert.Nut.

Ferrets can make fun and engaging pets but do have some very specific dietary needs which need to be taken into consideration.

Ferrets are classed as obligate carnivores – this means that they must have meat as the core of their diet and cannot be fed a vegetarian diet. They have a high metabolism and a short digestive tract which means they can struggle to absorb nutrients from food.

Carbohydrates and vegetable proteins cannot be digested properly because of this, which means they can cause health problems and should be avoided. High fibre ingredients are also nable to be processed as ferret’s digestive tract does not contain a caecum, which is a pouch connected to the junction of the small and large intestines and allows the digestion of complex carbohydrates.

Carbohydrates also break down to sugars and can lead to high blood sugar levels leading to illness. Some urinary issues can also be caused by inappropriate diets, in particular feeding dog foods etc. Protein and fats found in meat are more readily available for their body. Feeding regular and often is necessary, but weighing them on a weekly basis is also a good idea to ensure any weight gain or loss is noticed early.

Fresh water is needed at all times and should be regularly refreshed while monitoring the volume they drink to ensure any changes are spotted early.

In the wild ferrets would eat their prey almost completely including skin, organs and small bones.

Whole foods can be fed including chicks, mice and rats, however it is both morally wrong, risks injury to your ferret, as well as being illegal to live feed in the UK. You can also feed things such as chicken wings, chicken breast, rabbit, gamebirds, lamb and turkey. Raw bones can be offered to help with gnawing, dental health and mental stimulation. Risks of raw feeding must be taken into account when feeding a ferret in this way. Cooked bones should never be offered as they can splinter and ferrets should be supervised when eating any bones. Raw foods can lead to a risk of salmonella and other food poisoning, to your pet but also to yourself. Ferrets need feeding little and often but enjoy hiding and storing foods if too much is offered - raw food must be removed after a short period of time to reduce the risk of it going off and making your pet ill. While not always the most palatable, this is the natural diet of ferrets and some good quality raw meat from good quality sources should form part of their diet. Raw and cooked eggs can be offered as a treat but should not be given every day due to a risk of constipation.

Because of these risks some people prefer to offer a complete, nutritionally balanced ferret diet. These are often similar to dry dog and cat foods and can be an easier to provide food (little and often). If choosing a complete dry diet then ensure that the first ingredient is meat protein and the amounts of fillers and carbohydrates are

limited. This can then be left with them if raw food is being stored or not eaten immediately is a problem. As in the name, these diets are complete and can be fed as a sole diet. This does mean you can add extra foods in to provide variety but treats etc should be kept to a minimum as they can lead to obesity.

Exactly what food will suit your ferret best does depend on which life stage they are at. Young and growing kits will need to be exposed to whatever foods you intend to feed them in their life as at this age they will form bonds with food that can cause issues later. Different flavours, textures and smells are important to expose them to early. In general, ferrets will need more calories when they are growing, pregnant and lactating. They may also need tailored diets if they are unwell your veterinary surgeon can advise you at these times. Any change to diet should be done gradually to avoid gastrointestinal upsets.

Ferrets are intelligent creatures and feeding can also be a great opportunity to provide them with mental stimulation. Offering them

different types of food can be a great way to do this, but we can also use food to increase exercise levels and ensure our ferrets do not become overweight. Hiding dried food in places around their environment, making them climb or do tasks to get food and the use of feeding toys to encourage them can really improve their activity levels and keep their brain active.

Before getting a ferret, consider how you plan to feed them, how you can keep the diet varied, safe and healthy as well as how you can use feeding to keep them mentally stimulated is vital.

Emma qualified as a Veterinary Nurse in 2008 and works for Nutravet (UK) Ltd. She has a BSc in Zoology with Animal Ecology and an MSc in Ecology, helping to fuel her interest in more exotic species. She has a particular love of small furries and has a grade A distinction in Canine and Feline Clinical Nutrition (CertNut).

Don’t let fireworks stress

frighten