Companion Life - Summer 2018

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SUMMER 2018

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In this issue > A guide to holidaying with your dog > Pet friendly summer holidays in the UK > Interview with Paul Manktelow, celebrity TV vet for ITV’s ‘This Morning’ programme

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EDITOR’S COMMENT I’m delighted to present the summer edition of Companion Life Magazine.

Companion Life is a free magazine, which aims to offer pet owners information, news, and advice. In this issue we focus on the challenges and hazards that summertime can bring for pets and their owners. As well as highlighting the latest news in the animal world, we also offer some top pet-friendly holidays in the UK, and a handy guide to holidaying with your dog. Feel free to get in touch with any features, news, new products or even your pet pictures.

Laura Evans Editor Companion Life Companion Life is a Free Magazine providing news, information, tips and advice for pet owners across the UK. Circulation: 20,000 copies of Companion Life is available through veterinary practices across the UK. If you would like free copies for your practices, please let us know.

Contact details: Companion Life, Barn 3, Somerford Business Court, Holmes Chapel Road, Congleton, Cheshire. CW12 4SN www.companionlife.co.uk Editor: Laura Evans.

Editorial: editor@companionlife.co.uk Advertising/artwork: advertising@companionlife.co.uk 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. @CompanionLifeUK facebook.com/CompanionLifeMag instagram.com/companionlifemag

NEWS

Vet’s Kitchen launch Puppy Pack to support new pet owners Vet’s Kitchen has launched a unique Puppy Pack, providing all the essentials new pet owners need.

The packs are full of tips and advice to ensure that your puppy gets off to a great start in life, as well as supporting their long-term health and wellbeing.

Included in the Puppy Pack is a journal, packed with essential information for the first few weeks and months, a 1.3kg bag of Chicken and Brown Rice complete puppy food with added salmon oil to aid brain development

and prebiotics for healthy digestion, a packet of Little Stars Smart+ soft, breakable training treats and a clicker for training.

Jenny Philp, Managing Director and practicing vet at Vet’s Kitchen, said: “As the only pet food brand with an in-house veterinary practice, improving health and wellbeing of pets is at the very core of our business and we want to encourage new puppy owners to give their four-legged companion the best start in life and to help support them in their journey.”

The Puppy Packs are available to buy on the Vet’s Kitchen website www.vetknowhow.co.uk

Survey shows mental health affects one third of UK pets A recent survey has revealed that one third of the UK’s pets suffer from a mental health issue.

Telford based, Rosewood Pet Products surveyed the nation’s pet parents and found that anxiety, stress and depression affects our pets, with cats and dogs the most affected, dogs being the most anxious (65%), compared to cats (41%).

However, 27% of cats showed obvious signs of stress, compared to 21% of dogs. But some dog owners said that they suspect their pet’s stress

and anxiety are side effects of other conditions.

Many pet owners suspected that their dog or cats anxiety was made worse when their pets are away from their owners.

Bev Panter, Marketing Director at Rosewood, added: “These survey stats demonstrate a real need for pet parents to be aware of any symptoms or changes in their pet’s behaviour that may indicate that there is a serious underlying problem. The reality is mental health affects our pets too, but perhaps this fact does not benefit from a high level of awareness, particularly as our pets don’t have a voice to express themselves as we do.”

Pets get stressed in the summer too Nutravet is emphasising the need for natural calming products instead of strong sedating drugs often used during the summer months when travel and kennel stays are more popular.

Pet calming products are usually focused on the fireworks season, but there are a lot of stressed pets out there that get anxious during vet visits, kennel stays, when separated from their owners and during travelling.

Many pet owners only assume that their pets get stressed from loud noises and are

unaware of the variety of situations that can cause their pets to become stressed or anxious.

Pets can demonstrate anxiety and stress in a variety of ways, which can include, trembling and shaking, whining, destruction of property, toileting in the house and in some instances aggression.

Nutracalm by Nutravet is recommended

by Vets throughout the UK as a natural alternative to calming drugs. It has been specially formulated to naturally calm anxious pets and to help reduce unwanted and unruly behaviour through its fast acting high strength formula without any sedative effect. Find your local stockist at www.nutravet.co.uk

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New GPS tracking device set to give pet owners peace of mind Dog owners will be able to keep track of their four-legged companions with the help of a new GPS tracking device.

WatchOvers PetTrackie provides pet owners with a pet tracker device with real-time location updates that can be easily managed through the free PetTrackie app.

Additional features of the pet tracking system include geo-fencing with alert messages for when adventurous pets go outside the virtual fenced areas, as well as location history, which enables owners

to track exactly where their pet has been.

The tracker is also 100% waterproof and comes with a unique innovative holder which is designed to fit easily to most collars.

Eamonn O’Connor, CEO of WatchOvers, said: “Anyone who owns a pet knows how much of a worry it can be when you lose them or even just taking them to a new location for a walk. The pet tracker works in unison with all Android and IOS smartphones and means that owners can see both their own and their pet’s location, enabling them to find the quickest route to them.” PetTrackie is a subscription service that offers low rates that can be pre-paid monthly with no contract.

RSPCA urge people to consider long-term commitment of owning a cat The RSPCA is urging people to consider the long-term commitment of owning a cat, which on average live for 14 years.

A study funded by the RSPCA, published in the Journal of Feline Medicine and Surgery showed that on average crossbreed cats live longer than purebred at 14 years, and pure breeds 12.5 years.

The study also revealed that a cat’s lifespan is reduced by six months for every 1kg

increase in adult body weight. It showed that the most common cause of death for cats was trauma at 12.2% followed closely by kidney disease at 12.1%. RSPCA scientific officer, Jane Tyson, said: “Crossbreds may be living longer than purebreds because of the genetics, as certain breeds can be more prone to particular illnesses.

“Some owners fear that their cat may be hit by a car, but the study shows they are almost just as likely to develop kidney disease. This is a timely reminder to ensue your cat has regular health checks so that any illnesses can be picked up quickly.”

NEWS SNIPPETS Dogs Trust teach kids how to stay safe around dogs Hundreds of kids up and down the UK learnt how to stay safe around dogs during the second annual ‘Be Dog Smart Week’, which ran from 11th to 17th June.

During the course of the week, Dogs Trust’s Education and Community Officers visited schools across the country to deliver dog safety workshops to over 14,000 children to ensure they understand how to behave around dogs.

Experts predict an explosion of flea activity this summer The British Pest Control Association are predicting an explosion of flea activity in homes this summer following the recent hot weather and thunderstorms, which create the perfect bedding conditions.

Johnson’s Veterinary Products are stressing the importance of treating homes and furnishings as well as pets to avoid infestation.

Their award winning veterinary strength 4fleas range for cats and dogs includes a spot on solution, which help to treat fleas on pets as well as in the home.

Puppy dealing gang jailed for fraud & welfare offences A gang of fraudsters operating a puppy-dealing ring worth £2.5m have been jailed and disqualified from keeping dogs for life following a three-year investigation by the RSPCA. The gang was selling sick and dying puppies to unsuspected members of the public across the South East.

BOOK NOW! VISIT DOG-FEST.CO.UK OR CALL 0844 5814917

HOSTED BY SUPERVET NOEL FITZPATRICK, DOGFEST IS THE ULTIMATE DOGGY DAY OUT FOR OUR FURRY FRIENDS! DOGFEST 2018 IS SPONSORED BY:

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ARTICLE

A guide to...

HOLIDAYING WITH YOUR Before you leave Research It’s important to research where you plan to visit. Ensure that your accommodation accepts dogs and how many they allow. Are there dog-friendly facilities and attractions close by? It wouldn’t be much fun for your dog if you take them on holiday with you but they are left in the holiday home all day.

There are many dog-friendly holiday stays available in the UK. Website such as, Pitch-up.com and Canine Cottages offer a collection of dog-friendly holidays and locations across the UK.

As a nation of dog lovers, many pet owners can’t bear to be apart from their beloved companions and so take them on holiday.

Around 67% of UK dog owners have revealed that they plan to holiday with their dog this year, with more than half (60%) even planning their holiday around their pooch.

It’s never nice to leave your dog in kennels, whilst on your travels. However, as many holiday destinations in the UK now have pet friendly accommodation,

many owners don’t have to make that choice. It’s important that while we love to take our dogs with us, as responsible owners, we should ensure our pets are safe and happy while we’re away.

Preparing for your trip in advance can make a big difference to your holiday and reduce stress for both yourself and your dog.

Itinerary Plan what you are going to be doing while you are away, days out etc. Be sure to research local attractions and restaurants to ensure your dog is allowed to accompany you.

Health check Visit your vet to ensure your dog is healthy and OK to travel. Make sure their vaccinations are up-to-date, as well as their flea and worming treatment. It’s also important to ensure they are micro-chipped and your contact details are up-to-date in case they escape or get lost.

Pack the essentials Make sure that you have all the essentials that you will need for your dog whilst on holiday. Plan ahead to make sure you don’t forget anything. Pack your dog’s favourite toys and bedding to help them settle while you’re away. Check with your holiday rental what is included before you go, many may supply water and food bowls. Make sure you pack enough food and any medication they may need.

Reduce stress Going somewhere new could be a stressful experience for your dog. Try to keep key routines as normal as possible to reduce any stress for your pet. Natural supplements, such as Nutracalm can help to reduce stress and keep your pet calm during this time.

Add some extra training You may think that your dog is well behaved and can follow basic commands, but in a new environment this may change. Be sure to re-teach your dog basic commands to ensure they remain well behaved in distracting environments.

If your dog is not used to being around other dogs, socialisation training would be key before you go, as there may be a number of pet owners holidaying with their dog in close proximity.

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Don’t forget to pack the following before your holiday starts:

DOG

Pet food Food & water bowls Dog bed & bedding Dog lead

Whilst on holiday

Settle your dog in When you arrive, take your dog for a walk to familiarise yourself and your dog with the area. Be sure to keep them on their lead. This will also offer a chance for your dog to stretch their legs after the car journey.

Routine Even when on holiday stick to your dog’s routine as much as possible, including feeding times, walking and sleep. This will help to reduce stress as much as possible for your dog.

Look up local sitters If you can’t take your dog out with you on some days whilst you’re away, look for local dog sitters or boarding kennels to ensure they are looked after and not left alone all day.

Check out DogBuddy.com who offer dog sitters in your local area.

Favourite toys & treats to keep them occupied Your dog’s safety Once you’ve settled in and unpacked, it is important to keep an eye on your dog to ensure their safety. It may be easy to slip into holiday mode but keep your pet’s safety in mind. Don’t leave them unsupervised whilst outside in case they run off or escape and always keep them on their lead if possible when walking. Don’t leave your dog alone in your holiday home or in the car whilst on days out. Also be sure to supervise your dog at the beach whilst near water and check which beaches allow dogs before taking them for a walk.

Any medication your dog may need including a calming product such as Nutracalm to reduce their stress whilst travelling Pet insurance information Details of the nearest vets at the destination

“He’s my best friend”

Plan for an emergency Make sure you find out where the nearest vets is whilst on holiday in case something should happen. You could look up the address and plan a route so that you know where to go in an emergency.

Take your pet’s insurance details with you.

Planning in advance can make holidaying with your dog a much more enjoyable experience.

Trial weekends and days away are also a great way to get your pet used to travelling and staying in an unfamiliar environment.

And, don’t forget to have fun – remember the reason why you can’t bear to be without your beloved four-legged companion!

– even on holiday!

Please give back to pets in need bluecross.org.uk Reg. charity no: 224392 (England and Wales), SC040154 (Scotland)

MC-13147-0618

Travel If you are traveling by car, make sure that your dog is used to it, especially if it is going to be a long journey.

Ensure they are secure in the car in a crate or by using a harness. During the journey stop for breaks and allow your pet to stretch their legs. Make sure that your dog has plenty of fresh water to stay hydrated on warm days.

TOP TIP

Holiday essentials checklist

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ADVICE

TOP TIPS for pet owners during summer Summer can be an exciting time for pet owners, as it can mean more time spent outdoors, enjoying the occasional hot days.

As a pet owner it’s important to understand the potential hazards that summer can bring for our beloved companions. Our pets love summer as much a we do, as it’s the best time to be out and about enjoying lots of exercise and fun. As pets don’t sweat like people do, it can be hard for them to stay cool in warmer weather. Dogs stay cool by panting, but if the air they breathe in is only warm, it can make it harder for them to cool down.

Here are some positive things you can do to help maintain your pet’s health during summer months: Keep your pet hydrated

Always make sure that your pet has a clean and fresh supply of water daily.

If you are taking them on a long car journey, be sure to take water bowls along to hydrate your pet during rest stops. If your cat spends most of their summer days outside, be sure to leave a water bowl in the garden if they can’t access one indoors.

Ticks

These can be one of the biggest dangers during summer months. Always check your dog for ticks following walks, especially in wooded areas. During summer months check your dog and cat once a day for any ticks.

Cars

Never leave your pet alone in a car, especially in summer months. Cars can get hot very quickly in the sun and this could risk your pet’s health. Either take your dog with you, or leave them at home.

Fertilisers

Some fertilisers and pesticides can be poisonous to your pet. Try to refrain from using them on your garden, as they could make your dog or cat ill if ingested.

Water safety

If you take your dog to the beach or somewhere near a lake, be sure to supervise your dog at all times whilst they are in the water. Don’t assume your dog can swim.

Some lakes can contain algae, which is poisonous to dogs.

Offer shade

Create a shady den in your garden to help your pet escape the sun. Make sure they have plenty of fresh water on offer – as well as water to use to cool off. You could use a small paddling pool in your garden to keep your dog cool in high temperatures.

Sun protection

Be sure to protect your pet’s paws from hot surfaces during the summer. Pavements and surfaces can get hot in high temperatures and could burn your pet’s paws.

Some dogs and cats can suffer from sunburn, just like us if we spend too much time in the sun. Pets with light skin and short or thin hair, such as white cats are more susceptible to sensitive skin from the sun. Try to limit the amount of time your pet spends in the sun. You could also use sun cream that is specially formulated for pets.

Keep pets cool

Barbecues

Protect their paws

Use a fan indoors to help keep your pets cool. If it’s too warm for you then it’s also too warm for them. If you keep the house cool via open windows, be sure to keep an eye on your pets to prevent them from escaping or falling.

If you have a barbecue during the summer, don’t feed your pet any food that they shouldn’t have.

This could cause them to have a sensitive tummy.

Speak to guests and advise them not to feed your pets scraps.

Exercise

During particularly hot days, walk your dog in the morning or evening to avoid the hottest time of day. The intense heat of midday can overwhelm your dog. Don’t over exert your dog.

Grooming

Regularly grooming your pet during summer can help to reduce excess fur.

It will especially help to reduce fur balls in your cat’s stomach.

Keep an eye on your pet

Keep checking on your pet and look out for signs of heat stress. These signs can include, heavy panting and excessive drooling.

Your vet is best placed to monitor your pet’s health, it is important to have regular health checks with your local vet to ensure your pet is receiving the best possible care. Ask your vet about any of the above or if you are worried about your pet’s health.

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PRODUCT SPOTLIGHT

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If you would like your product featured in a future edition please get in touch editor@companionlife.co.uk

In this edition, we highlight some pet products that we think our readers will love...

VetSpec Gtec - K9 cordless Low-Calorie Formula vacuum cleaner Prices from £13.94

RRP: £249.99

VetSpec SuperLite Low Calorie Formula has all the benefits of VetSpec Healthy Dog Formula but is on a base food with 20% less calories if fed as directed.

It is a cereal-grain-free, super premium dog food which contains 50% chicken with added vegetables and herbs, so you can still feed your dog a delicious feed, packed with high quality vitamins and minerals. It includes biotin and other associated nutrients to greatly improve the coat and promote supple skin. The prebiotic fibre and herbal sources help maintain gut health. It is wheat gluten-free, with no added colours, preservatives or artificial flavours.

Extra tough, the Gtech AirRam K9 is a high performance, cordless vacuum cleaner that is specially designed to deal with the joys of living with pets. With no settings to change, you can easily clean all floor surfaces around the home.

www.vetspec.com

The Gtech AirRam K9 is powerful and lightweight, strengthened with aluminium components to withstand the extra strain caused by pet hair and improve performance. www.gtech.co.uk

Nutrabio - for tummy upsets & diarrhoea Prices from £16.99

Maintaining optimum digestive health for your pet is vital to ensure they lead a happy and healthy life.

Nutrabio is a naturally formulated paste for dogs and cats, developed with a high strength composition of Probiotic bacteria, Prebiotics, Sweet Basil and Kaolin, which combine to help normalise digestive function when your pet is suffering from diarrhoea. Nutrabio’s proven natural ingredients aid natural digestive balance, promote friendly bacteria and replenish the natural balance of gut bacteria. www.nutravet.co.uk/ nutrabio

Catit - Flower Fountain RRP £25.00

The Catit Flower Fountain uses running water to encourage your cat to drink more to help ensure proper kidney function.

The Fountain includes a Triple Action filter which purifies and softens hard tap water, while also retaining stray hairs, sediment and debris. Holding up to 3L of water it ensures your cat has a constant supply of fresh water all day!

We have secured Companion Life readers an exclusive 10% off the Catit Flower Fountain on www.catit.co.uk with coupon code COMPANIONLIFE10, plus free delivery and Flower placemat. Hurry, offer expires 31st July 2018. www.catit.co.uk

WIN WIN WIN Be in with a chance of winning one of our monthly prizes by joining our E-newsletter.

Each month we will give away a prize to members of our E-newsletter mailing list. Prizes include t-shirts, mugs, Nutravet products, Vet’s Kitchen puppy packs and gift vouchers.

To be in with a chance of winning simply join our mailing list, where you’ll receive a monthly newsletter with digital issues of Companion Life, news, special offers and pet health articles.

Sign up at: www.companionlife.co.uk/join

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ARTICLE

Pet friendly summer holidays in the UK Dartmoor Shepherds Huts in Newton Abbot, Devon Escape to a peaceful Dartmoor valley with woodland views on one side and the Holy Brook on the other for a relaxing summer holiday.

The huts are insulated with wool from the site’s own sheep, while tent pitches provide a spacious spot to set up your home-away-from-home. Cook over a traditional campfire, tell tales around your own firepit or enjoy a traditional Devonshire cream tea whilst Fido enjoys a run around the site. Non-electric grass tent, campervan or trailer tent pitch from £16 per night; Shepherd’s Hut from £40 per night.

South Farm Caravan Park in Sutton on Sea, Lincolnshire Whether two legged or four, you will receive a warm welcome at this small family-run site.

Children love helping the owners collect fresh eggs from the chickens, whilst dogs enjoy a run in the exercise field. Walking and cycling paths of the Lincolnshire Wolds are close by, whilst the nearest beach has miles of dog-friendly sands for your pooch to let loose. With eight different pitch and accommodation options to select from, this is a wonderful summer destination. Non-electric grass tent pitch from £14.50 per night. Jack and Alice one-bedroom caravan from £80 for a minimum two-night stay.

Wild Eyedeer in Falmouth, Cornwall Let your four-legged friend play with onsite dog Fisher in this quiet retreat. Set on 23 acres of woodland, meadows and steams in an area of outstanding natural beauty, the well equipped cabin features an ensuite double room, a garden facing decking area and indoor and outdoor dining table. Collect fresh eggs from nearby Roscarrack Vean, or enjoy a stroll along Maenporth beach. Further afield, take a short drive to Helford Estuary, a popular spot for dolphin sightings. Fisher’s Hut two-bedroom cabin from £246 for a three-night break.

*Prices correct as of 17 May 2018, based on two adults and one dog. Most sites do not accept breeds/crossbreeds listed in the Dangerous Dog Act and may have other exclusions; please check individual listings for specific site requirements. Prices and availability subject to change.

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Forget putting your dog in a kennel this summer and stay at one of the dog friendly sites across the UK. The UK has a host of camping, glamping and holiday parks where your four-legged friend is welcome to join you for a relaxing break. We highlight some of the UK’s leading outdoor accommodation provider, Pitchup.com’s top picks for summer staycations with your pets.

For more information on any of the sites listed or more than 3,000 locations in 45 countries, ranging from tent pitches to motorhome lots, lodges to glamping tents, visit www.Pitchup.com

Chipping Camping Barn in Preston, Lancashire Set in the Forest of Bowland, an area of outstanding natural beauty, the Chipping Camping Barn is the ideal base to explore the local area. Brush up on your countryside etiquette as you become Lord and Lady of the Manor with exclusive use of the Barn, including kitchen and barbecue, indoor and outdoor dining areas and country pursuits nearby. Bunkhouse from £40 per night.

Glenmore Caravan and Camping Park in Ballycastle, Northern Ireland Watch the sunset and marvel at views across to Rathlin Island, the Mull of Kintyre or Islay from your pitch at the Glenmore Caravan and Camping Park. Set in one of the nine Antrim glens in a 95-acre park, partake in a spot of fly fishing, sing along with traditional music in the bar and restaurant or cook up a storm in the barbecue and picnic areas.

Non-electric grass tent pitch from £17.75 per night; Electric hardstanding touring pitch from £26 per night.

Brighouse Bay Holiday Park in Kirkcudbright, Scotland On the Dumfries and Galloway coast, the Brighouse Bay Holiday Park provides a wide array of activities including six fishing ponds, private beach, 18-hole golf course, indoor amusement room with mini ten pin bowling and 1,200 acres of sublime countryside walks. Stargazing is a popular night time activity, while a well-stocked shop and licensed bistro for hot and cold meals will keep you replenished.

Non-electric grass tent or trailer tent pitch from £19.50 per night; Electric grass tent or trailer tent pitch from £24 per night.

Apple Farm in Stratford-upon-Avon, Warwickshire Spend lazy summer days on this peaceful glamping site set on a 60-acre farm and orchard, just three miles from Shakespeare’s home town. With fishing lakes nearby and easy day trips to Warwick and Stratfordupon-Avon, you’ll work up an appetite – perfect for a sizzling barbecue when you return to the campsite in the evening with each unit boasting its own barbecue and firepit. Standard bell tent from £85 per night or Large bell tent from £110 per night.

Hollington Park Glamping in Newbury, Berkshire Adding a dash of vintage glamour to your summer holiday at this small, dog-friendly site in a woodland clearing. Each pod includes bone china and bed linen, plus barbecue equipment and a brick-built firepit. Scenic walks, three local pubs and a ten-acre woodland for wood foraging, den building and wildlife spotting are nearby, all within 45 minutes of London making this site ideal for a mini-break. Camping pods and Bedouin bell tent from £150 for a minimum two-night stay.

Tarset Tor in Hexham, Northumberland An eco-site set within Northumberland National Park, Tarset Tor’s hilltop bothy cabins epitomise glamping – modern accommodation, stunning views and a ‘back to nature’ experience. The site features a wildlife pond, bird hire and three-acre area for walking dogs, plus a firepit in the BYO woodland bar.

Two-bedroom bothy cabin from £125 per night.

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GETTING TO KNOW

Q&A

What are the main pet health issues that you see regularly?

As a vet you see a whole range of pet health issues on a daily basis, no two days are ever the same! Having said that, there are lots of conditions that you see more regularly than others.

Some examples are dental issues, joint and skin problems, parasites, and of course tummy upsets.

Sadly, obesity has become an increasingly common problem in the UK and it comes with a whole range of pet health related conditions. Behavioural issues are also increasingly common, especially in dogs.

How could these health problems be reduced?

Or, prevented if possible?

You can’t avoid all health issues in pets, however, you can certainly prevent a lot of problems by making sensible decisions around nutrition, exercise, and preventive healthcare.

Feed a nutritious and balanced diet that is appropriate for your pet’s size and weight. Engage them with regular exercise that is appropriate for their age and breed. Finally,

Paul Manktelow BVMS, MSc DMS, MRCVS

Resident celebrity TV vet for ITV’s ‘This Morning’ programme

Paul has been a practicing veterinary surgeon for over 13 years and currently looks after PDSA operations in 17 Pet Hospitals in the South of England, Wales and Northern Ireland.

Paul has a wealth of medical and surgical expertise and an impressive media presenting portfolio. Paul loves speaking about pet health and welfare issues and he regularly fronts national press campaigns for PDSA. As a media vet Paul has presented five independent series for various primetime channels including “Junior Vets” – BBC, “Animal Madhouse” – Channel 4, “Help My Dog’s as Fat as Me” – BBC and “Fat Pet – Slimmer of the Year” – ITV. make sure you are treating regularly for all the nasty parasites such as fleas, ticks and worms.

What advice would you offer to pet owners during summer months?

Summer is a great time for your pets to get out and about and enjoy lots of healthy exercise so I always encourage owners to maximise the amount of outdoor activity you have, especially with dogs. Holidays with your pet are becoming more and more popular and I am a great advocate of taking pets with you on vacation. However, you need to take precautions to do this safely. Make sure you watch out for heatstroke, particularly when travelling. Also, you need to make sure you are careful with your pets when they are in unfamiliar surroundings.

Finally, speak to your vet about the right vaccinations, parasite treatments and the requirements for your pet passport.

Why do you think our love for pets has grown so much over the years?

Pets have become a very important part of the family across all ages and demographics and they

provide endless joy and companionship to people of all ages. They can help teach children about nurture, care and responsibility and they provide essential companionship to many elderly people who would otherwise be socially isolated.

We all learn first aid for ourselves, but how vital is first aid for pets?

Learning some quick and simple tips on pet first aid can be vital in an emergency. Our pets love to explore, play and eat things so they inevitably get themselves into all sorts of trouble. Remaining calm and acting quickly can be the difference between a problem and a disaster.

Why are events such as DogFest important to get key messages across to pet owners?

One of the main reasons that owners fail in looking after their pets is due to lack of education, Events such as Dog Fest, which is happening at three locations this summer, are a fantastic way to engage pet owners in a fun and enjoyable environment, whilst communicating some key pet health messages.

What can people expect to see at DogFest?

DogFest offers dogs, their owners, and dog-lovers an action-packed, fun-filled weekend. There are loads of experts and informative talks on everything from behaviour to ticks and more. In fact I will be talking in the Knebworth VIP tent on 8 July on ‘First aid for pets-life saving techniques every pet owner should know’.

But really it’s like ‘Glastonbury for Dogs’: a full-on fiesta of ‘have-a-go’ activities such as hay bale jumping, flyball and the watery hilarity of dog diving, plus great bands, wonderful food and a shopping village with goodies for dogs and owners alike.

DogFest is at: BRISTOL: Ashton Court, 23-24 June and HERTFORDSHIRE: Knebworth House and Gardens, 7-8 July. Further details: Adult £16.50, child £10.50, senior £12.50, family £45 (2 adults, 2 children under 16) For tickets visit www.dog-fest.co.uk or call 0844 5814917

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ADVICE FROM THE EXPERT

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Looking after small furries in a heatwave

By Emma Purnell, RVN Cert.Nut.

Animals that are small have a much lower tolerance for the extremes of temperature as they will match the environmental changes much more rapidly.

It means they can quickly become hyperthermic, even if originally from hot climates.

The ideal temperature range for several common small mammal species are listed below: • Rabbits – 15-21°C • Guinea pigs – 17-20°C • Hamsters – 20-22°C • Gerbils – 20-24°C • Rats – 19-23°C • Chinchillas – 10-15°C • Degus – around 21°C Heatstroke (or hyperthermia) is a very serious problem for any species. When body temperature rises too high, several body systems can rapidly fail, including the gastrointestinal tract and, more seriously, the brain. If the brain becomes too hot damage rapidly occurs, leading to brain damage, seizures and death. Heatstroke is an emergency – prevention is better than cure.

Outside enclosures should be out of direct sunlight and in an area which allows for good ventilation. Outside pets, especially those which are white (even in patches) or ‘sunbathe’ can be at risk of sunburn. Pet safe sunblock should be applied, especially to rabbit ears but follow all product instructions carefully.

Using stone or ceramic tiles in the shade can be beneficial

as they will always feel cool.

If the pet is kept indoors, they need to be in a shaded area of the house, away from direct sunlight and in the coolest room possible. Good ventilation through the room and enclosure will keep the temperature down. Using thermometers to measure ambient temperature is useful, but it is not advised to place them in the enclosure due to the risk involved with them being chewed.

For both indoor and outdoor pets, active methods can be used to help cool them.

There are solid plastic cool packs specifically designed for pets, or frozen plastic bottles of water, but both of these must be covered with a specifically designed cover or towel before being used.

The pet must have plenty of space to move away, they should never be forced to be in contact with cool packs. These cool packs will also cool the environmental temperature and do not need to be in contact with the pet to be useful. If the pet begins to chew the cool pack it must be removed.

Fans and air conditioning can be great to improve ventilation but should never be directly angled at the pet and any electrical cables should be well out of reach.

Placing ice packs safely behind the fan can cool the air they are pushing towards the enclosure. Placing a cool, wet towel over a section of the enclosure can help to cool

the air within but ensure it is not dripping water and is not able to be chewed and ingested. Using spray bottles to mist the area within the cage with cool water will help but do not directly spray the pet.

Animals can become dehydrated very quickly in hot weather so providing plenty of cool, fresh water and ensuring it is always accessible is a necessity. Increasing water intake by providing fresh fruit or vegetables (ensuring they are safe for the species) can be of use, rinsing or soaking the treat before giving it can increase the water intake further. Freezing fresh fruit or vegetables to give to small pets can be a good way to increase water intake, cool and keep them active but care should be taken to supervise them when they have treats like this.

If a pet is overheating (or hyperthermic) there are a few signs you may see.

These include: • Very rapid and shallow breathing • Quiet or lethargic behaviour • Ears being hot to the touch and more red than normal • Moisture around the nose • Salivating • Throwing back the head and open mouth breathing • Acting disorientated

• Seizures If you see any of these signs then you must seek immediate veterinary attention as overheating can be rapidly fatal, but there are some steps you can take. The most important thing to remember is NOT to cool them too rapidly. Bathing is not recommended in many small animal species as it can lead to shock and this is even more of a risk if they are hot and placed in cold water. Using cool (not cold) water to dampen the ears can be helpful – they use the blood vessels in the ears to regulate temperature as they are very close to the surface so this can lead to a reduction in body temperature. Make sure they have access to cool water to drink as this will help to cool them but do not syringe or force them water – stress will only push their temperature higher.

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).

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