Unfortunately, it’s time to give your beloved pet their medication, and the biggest challenge now becomes figuring out how to do this. To avoid feeling overwhelmed and stressed—both you and your pet—we’ve prepared some tips that we hope will help.

Before diving into specific techniques, it’s essential to highlight some general tips to create the best possible environment for your pet:

  • Keep Calm and Carry On!
    Staying calm is a key part of the process, as your demeanour can influence your pet’s behaviour. Remaining composed can help ensure you’re prepared to handle any reaction they might have.
  • Choose the Right Environment
    Creating a safe, quiet space with minimal distractions can make the experience much more manageable.
  • Establish a Routine
    Whether the medication is short-term or long-term, it’s crucial to establish a consistent routine by administering it at the same time each day. This consistency fosters a sense of safety and reliability for your pet.
  • Pair It with a Positive Activity
    Use your most enthusiastic voice to praise your pet. Before and after giving the medication, engage them in an activity they love, like a walk or playtime. This can help reduce stress and make the experience more enjoyable.
  • Don’t Forget Treat Time!
    After the medication, reward your pet with high-value treats to reinforce a positive association with the process.
  • The Classic “Wrap It Up” Method
    Use a treat your pet loves to create a small “sandwich” with the pill hidden in the middle. This sneaky snack can make the process easier and stress-free.
    Be cautious with pets who have allergies—ensure the treats are suitable for them. In such cases, always consult your veterinarian for advice.
  • Crushing and Hiding
    This well-known method can be a lifesaver. However, always check with your veterinarian to ensure the medication can safely be crushed. If allowed, mix the crushed medication with water or another familiar, tasty liquid to make it more palatable for your pet.

If you’re administering the medication directly:

For dogs, position them between your knees while sitting on the ground. Gently administer the liquid through the side of their mouth while ensuring they remain calm.

If your veterinarian has prescribed injectable medication to be administered at home, it’s vital to carefully follow the instructions provided.

To make the experience as stress-free as possible, follow the general guidelines mentioned earlier.

  • Keep Them Distracted
    Offer high-value treats during the injection to divert their attention and make the experience less intimidating.
  • Handle with Care
    Administering injectable medication requires extra caution. Seek assistance or use a towel or blanket to gently restrain your pet, ensuring they stay still during the procedure.

It’s crucial not to give up when giving medication to your pet. Completing the prescribed course ensures your pet’s health and recovery. If you’re struggling or find it too challenging to administer medication, always contact your veterinarian for advice or alternative solutions. Veterinarians can help find approaches that work best for your pet and situation.

By following these tips, you can make the process of giving medication to your pet smoother and less stressful for both of you. Remember, patience and positive reinforcement are key to ensuring your pet’s comfort and well-being. If you have any concerns or uncertainties, don’t hesitate to seek advice from your veterinarian, they can provide guidance tailored to your pet’s specific needs and ensure the medication is administered safely and effectively.

Extra reading

The holiday season is fast approaching, bringing with it excitement, magical decorations, delicious foods, family gatherings, and thoughtful presents, making us all feel even more happy and festive.
This special time of year is all about cherishing moments of joy, and part of that joy is ensuring our furry friends feel safe and included. With a little extra care and attention, we can make this festive time as delightful for them as it is for us, while avoiding any unexpected mishaps.

Some pets may become anxious or stressed with a lot of visitors. If you have a house full of relatives, ensure your pet has a quiet space where they can retreat if they feel overwhelmed. Remind guests not to feed your pets any table scraps and to be cautious when opening doors, as pets may try to escape.

The Christmas table is set, the food smells amazing, and family members are gathered to enjoy the celebration. Before sitting down together, it’s important to remind everyone that certain human food can be toxic to pets. Whether you have pets or are visiting a home with them, knowing this information can help prevent sneaky treats being given under the table and keep our furry friends safe.

Over the festive season, it may be more tempting to give your pet a human food treat.  However, treats such as chocolate can be toxic for pets.  Even small amounts of chocolate can be extremely dangerous causing vomiting, diarrhoea and sometimes more serious problems.

Grapes and their dried variants, such as currants, sultanas, and raisins, as well as macademia nuts, pose severe health risks to dogs. These ingredients are commonly found in Christmas favourites like fruitcake, pudding, and mince pies. Onions and garlic are another potential hazard as they can upset a pet’s stomach.

Pets can be affected by alcohol in much the same way as people, resulting in symptoms such as wobbliness and drowsiness. In severe cases, it can be highly toxic. Keep pets away from any unattended glasses of alcohol left around during the festive season.

Human food, especially the rich and fatty dishes typically enjoyed during the holidays, can lead to sickness and digestive problems in our pets. Additionally, cooked bones from a turkey or goose, that people might think is a nice treat, can splinter and puncture the digestive tract. If you want to treat your pet, choose specially formulated commercial treats.  It is recommended that no more than 10% of a pet’s calorific intake over a week or day come from treats.

After the Christmas feast, it’s probably time to exchange gifts and enjoy the beautifully decorated, festive atmosphere of the house. However, this part of the celebration also comes with a few hazards for your pets that require extra attention.

Pets love to play, particularly with new ‘toys’ and festive decorations such as baubles, tinsel, tree lights plus wrapping paper and ribbons can seem like attractive playthings to curious pets.  However, they can be very dangerous if broken or ingested. Also, be extra careful to keep batteries somewhere safe.

Poinsettia, holly, mistletoe and ivy are toxic to cats and dogs causing stomach upset. Watch out for the sharp needles on Christmas trees too.

To keep pets safe and calm during fireworks or other noisy events, it’s important to prepare for the potential stress caused by loud sounds. You can find more information in our previous blog and on the FECAVA website.

While we can do our best to pet-proof our homes during the holiday season, accidents can still happen. If you ever suspect that your pet has ingested something harmful, consult your veterinarian immediately. Rapid intervention can make all the difference in ensuring a happy and healthy holiday season for your pets.


Summertime! Let’s go on holiday! Oh WAIT, what about my pet?

By planning ahead, staying informed about pet travel regulations and ensuring your pet’s comfort and safety during your journey, you can have an enjoyable summer trip with your dog or cat. Think about…

  • When booking accommodation make sure you look for a pet-friendly hotel or rental house
  • Make sure that vaccinations and parasite protection are up-to-date, and your pet has been microchipped and has their ID tag
  • Take a first aid kit for emergencies and any other necessary medication and medical records
  • Make sure your pet is comfortable and used to riding in the car
  • Use a restraint or carrier to keep the pet safe while driving
  • Never leave your pet alone in a parked car, even if it is not hot outside
  • Take a break at least every four hours, just like we do dogs need to go to the bathroom
  • Ensure you have enough water available during the journey
  • Avoid overheating at all times
  • Check the airline’s pet travel policies to ensure they can actually fly with you, and if they can be in the cabin or have to be in the hold
  • Also check for specific breeds allowed onboard, as Brachycephalic dogs and cats for instance are often not allowed on some airlines, due to the higher risk of respiratory distress during the flight

If you are unable to take your dog or cat with you when traveling, there are several options to ensure they are well cared for while you are away… 

  • Professional pet sitters can look after your dogs or cats in your home so they feel at ease in their usual habitat
  • There are also nice kennels or catteries that offer comfortable accommodation, a social environment and supervision by trained people. In this case it’s often advisable to organise a ‘trial’ stay for few days before the holiday, to make sure your pet will be happy there.
  • Family and friends can also help out and sometimes your pet will be most comfortable with people they know.

Check out the FECAVA Summer advice here.

 

Summer is a fun season because it’s the perfect time to get out and enjoy activities with our pets. It’s the perfect time for outdoor activities and adventures with our furry friends.

But with the warmer temperatures and exposure to the sun, we must take extra care so they aren’t overheating or becoming dehydrated.

Dogs are known to cool down differently than people do – dogs pant to keep cool and sweat through their paws, cats clean and lick themselves as a method to cool down with their saliva.

It’s very important to keep an eye out for signs of heat exhaustion, such as excessive panting, drooling, lethargy, or vomiting. If you suspect your pet is overheating, move them to a cooler area, offer water, and contact your veterinarian. Be aware also that Flat Faced dogs and cats, like pugs, bulldogs or Persians and even rabbits are more susceptible to heat stroke, as they have more difficulties in cooling down.


We have some tips to help you be mindful of your pets’ needs, to make sure they stay safe and healthy during the summer months.

  • Provide enough water: fresh drinking water should always be available. Water can also be provided by way of ice cubes, be creative and make an ice-pop for your dog or cat as a fun treat or toy.
  • Provide access to cool places, shade and shelter. There are special cooling mats for pets, but simple cooling tricks such as popping a plastic water bottle in the freezer for them can also help.
  • It might seem like a good idea to be outside in the fresh air, but  in the hottest moments of the day, beaches or open parks are not always a good idea as there is no shade.
  • Avoid intensive exercise during the day. Dogs suffer faster from heat than people, so schedule exercises in the early morning or late evening. Dogs often do not know their own limits and will keep on playing fetch with a ball until they overheat.
  •  Brush your dog or cat regularly, but do not shave them! Their fur is a protection against the cold but also against the heat, as it works as an isolating layer.
  • Short-haired breeds can get sunburned, so use a pet-safe sunscreen. Not sure if your pet needs sunscreen? Ask your vet! Be extra careful if your cat has white ear tips as there is a link between sunburn and malignant tumours in cats. In these cats the use of sunscreen is a must.
  • Pay extra attention to their paws! A hot pavement can burn your pet’s paws, so it’s always better walk on the grass or in the shade.
  • Pay extra attention to hygiene. Warm weather makes Bacteria and Algae grow rapidly. So be careful with water in puddles or ponds. And don’t leave open pet food packs outside the refrigerator for too long. Always remember to thoroughly clean their food and water bowls daily..
  • In summer we also see more parasites like ticks and fleas: ask your veterinarian to advise you on the best protection products for your pets as they are the experts.
  • Lastly, but very importantly: NEVER leave pets alone in parked cars, even when you leave the window cracked open! The inside of a car can quickly reach dangerously high temperatures. If you see a pet in a closed vehicle, try to contact the owner of the car or the police to save the pet.

Regular veterinary check-ups are essential for keeping your pet happy and healthy. These visits help prevent diseases and detect any issues in their early stages. Not only does early detection lead to better outcomes for our beloved pets, but it also means less financial costs, reduced stress, and smoother treatment processes for both pets and their owners. Vaccinations, parasite prevention, routine deworming, dental checks and physical exams are important components of preventing diseases. Regular veterinary checks can also lower your animal’s stress when visiting a vet.

The frequency of regular veterinary checks depend on the age of the animal, previous medical history, breed and lifestyle.
• Puppies/kittens: 5 times by the age of six months (Core Vaccination Schedules)
• Adult dogs/cats: at least once a year or more frequent depending on the pet’s age, lifestyle, and health status
Geriatric dogs/cats: every six months is recommended

For both cats and dogs vaccination is key in preventing life-threatening diseases. Vaccines are separated into core (strongly recommended), non-core (optional) and not recommended vaccines. Core vaccines are considered vaccines that all dogs throughout the world must receive, at recommended intervals.


For dogs, core vaccines typically include protection against:
• Canine distemper virus (CDV)
• Canine adenovirus (CAV; types 1 and 2)
• Canine parvovirus type 2 (CPV-2) and its variants


Core vaccines for cats include:
• Feline panleukopenia (FPV),
• Feline herpesvirus (FHV-1)
• Feline calicivirus (FCV)
Additionally, rabies vaccination is considered a core vaccine for cats and dogs in many regions and is often a necessity if you want to travel with your dog or cat. For more information consult your vet to ensure your animal buddy gets the necessary protection.

Dental disease is a common and concerning health issue for dogs and cats. While it might not always be top of mind, its impact can be significant if left unchecked. Yearly veterinary check-ups are important to prevent dental problems. If you observe bad breath, broken or loose teeth, abnormal chewing, or any other issues, it’s advisable to schedule a veterinary check-up sooner rather than later. See here for more info.

Depending on your pet’s age and health status, the vet may recommend routine diagnostic tests such as blood work, urinalysis, or faecal testing to screen for underlying health problems. Screening tests delve into aspects of your pet’s health that aren’t easily visible during a physical exam, such as kidney function or blood cell counts, offering a more comprehensive understanding of their well-being.


Annual check-ups and preventive care are essential for keeping pets healthy, but also could save you money. Routine examinations can identify concerns before they worsen, potentially sparing you from expensive treatments down the line. More information here.


Most pets feel anxious during vet visits, and some may even show aggression due to fear. Using treats before and during check-ups can create a positive association with the experience. “Happy visits” at the clinic can put your pet at ease, making vet trips a more positive experience. Don’t hesitate to consult with your vet for more tips on easing your pet’s stress during visits and check out these useful tips.
Afterall, regular vet check-ups are essential for your pet’s health, detecting issues early, save you money in the long run and allow you to spend longer quality time with your companion. So why wait, book your next check-up now!

Rabbits are becoming ever more popular pets, but they are also one of the most misunderstood and neglected. Not because people mean to be cruel but because these beautiful little animals have much more complex needs than many people realise.

In general, all animals have five basic welfare needs.

Let’s have a look at these needs for rabbits as we share our tips on how you can make sure your little hoppers are the happiest they can be!

This may sound easy, but sadly, lots of people get it wrong.

Rabbits have teeth that grow continually throughout their lives, and they’ve evolved to eat fibrous, low energy foods like grass and plants. They need to spend a long time eating and chewing to get all the nutrients they need so their teeth get a lot of wear and tear, hence the need for constant growth. When rabbits don’t get enough grass and hay their teeth can overgrow and cause painful mouth lesions and abscesses. Muesli-style food allows for selective feeding and should never be fed.

Your rabbits should have constant access to good quality hay and only have about an eggcup-sized portion of complete rabbit pellets a day. Giving them access to fresh grass and a variety of green, leafy fibrous vegetation, weeds and herbs is even better.

All animals should have constant access to fresh water. Rabbits can be given water in bowls or in drinker bottles. Always check your rabbits’ water several times a day as bowls may get tipped over or soiled and bottles can get blocked.

Way too many rabbits are still kept in small hutches.

Freedom of choice and movement is essential for animal happiness. Rabbits are most active at dusk and dawn, which may not coincide with your schedule. With this in mind they should have safe access to their exercise area at all times. Hutches should be big enough for them all to stretch out fully and also to be able to stand up on their hind legs. The smallest hutch you should ever get should be 1.8m x 0.6m x 0.6m and they will need a lovely exercise area that they can access all the time too.

You can use tunnels and hideouts and add elevated areas for lounging and looking out. The world is your oyster so use your imagination to make their home as interesting as you can.

Just think – What do rabbits like and need to do? Run, hop, play, explore, graze, lounge around, hide, feel safe and of course, dig!

Just because you are providing your rabbits with luxury accommodation doesn’t mean that they won’t feel the irresistible urge to dig. This may be inconvenient for you but you can give them planters full of soil to dig in or use a sunken pond full of earth to give them some great digging joy without ruining your lawn. Even if your rabbits are kept indoors they still need to dig.

Rabbits are prey animals and they are also social animals.

This means they feel safer as well as happier when they are with other rabbits. Rabbits should never be kept on their own. Together they can groom and snuggle for warmth and have fun. The best combination is a neutered male and neutered female, but other combinations can work.

Rabbits, like lots of other animals, need protection from diseases.

Rabbits should be vaccinated against Myxomatosis and Rabbit Viral Haemorrhagic Disease. Talk to your vet about when these vaccines should be given and how often they need to be repeated.

All rabbits should also be neutered. This can help reduce aggression but it also prevents a lot of diseases such as cancer and uterine infections.


A responsible pet parent ensures that the animal has a good quality of life by understanding and meeting the physical, biological, and emotional needs of their companion. Caring for a pet involves investing in essentials like veterinary care, food, enrichment, exercise and other necessities to ensure their well-being. This all starts before you even bring the pet home. Read more via this link.

Before welcoming a dog or cat, or another animal into your home, it’s important to consider your lifestyle, time availability, space, and finances. These factors not only determine if you’re ready for a furry companion but also which breed would be the best fit. If you already have a pet, it’s important to ensure they will get along. To make your decision easier, here are some helpful links: Things to consider before getting a dog and here. We also have a blog on the topic.

There are many factors involved when deciding whether to adopt or buy. Shelters are full of animals waiting for a new home. Every animal is unique, with its own special needs, potential health concerns, and unknown past traumas. This can be particularly true for shelter animals. When deciding to adopt make sure it’s from a reputable animal shelter, as animals there are also typically vaccinated, microchipped, and neutered. Learn more about adoption on this link. When deciding to buy a pet from a breeder, be careful to buy from a responsible and reputable breeder, be careful if you buy online and watch out for inherited disorders. Each year, numerous pets are bred under substandard conditions, prematurely separated from their mothers, and traded across Europe. Check also if the breed has any known genetic disorders and hereditary diseases. Ensure that the pet has not been prematurely separated from its mother and has been properly identified and registered (microchipped).

Preparing for the arrival of your new puppy involves gathering essential items to ensure their comfort and well-being. These include feeding and water bowls, a suitable collar or harness, the appropriate leash, a comfortable bed, and a selection of toys. It’s important to provide a variety of toys that offer both physical engagement and cognitive stimulation. Find out what food the puppy was eating before their arrival and continue feeding them the same food initially. While you have the option to change their food later on, it’s advisable to do so gradually. For pet owners with houseplants, learn which ones could be harmful to dogs. Make sure to make your home puppy safe! Find more information on how to prepare for a puppy via this link.

Before bringing a new kitten home, make sure your home is kitty-proofed. Every kitten needs food and water bowls, food, a litterbox, litter, a tower, toys, and scratching pads. Cats love to climb to higher surfaces, so make sure they are also safe when doing this. Find more information on how to make your home safe via this link.

There is a wide range of pre-prepared pet food to keep dogs and cats happy and healthy. All ‘complete’ pet foods, regardless of format, are carefully formulated to provide all the nutrients a healthy pet needs.

It is important to consider activity level, lifestyle and life stage (e.g. puppy or kitten vs adult), the pet’s preferences with regard to food format and the owner’s opinion regarding convenience, cost, variety and suitability of available pet food. There is no particular right way to feed pets, as long as the nutritional needs of the dog or cat are being met. Always ensure your pet has access to clean water. We suggest you read this factsheet and reference the Nutritional Guidelines. You can also read our blog on the nutritional needs of pets.

Regular visits to the vet are important for all pets. These visits can be stressful for both you and your pet. Here are some helpful tips to make your cat’s vet visits less stressful:

Find out more via this link.

To make the visit to the vet a little bit less stressful for your dog we recommend bringing a favourite toy or blanket. To ensure your pet’s safety and the comfort of others, it’s essential to have a leash handy in busy waiting rooms. Find more information via this link.

Looking after pets in the winter requires some special attention to ensure their comfort and safety in cold weather. Here are some tips for taking care of your pets during the winter months:

White rabbit cleaning its face

Make sure your pets have a warm, dry shelter to retreat to when it’s cold outside. For dogs and cats this will be a warm spot in your home or a cosy basket.  For any smaller indoor pets such as guinea pigs, hamsters and rabbits, they will need extra straw or bedding to keep warm.  If your pets live outdoors, make sure their housing is insulated, waterproof, and elevated off the ground. It should provide protection from wind, rain, and snow. Over periods of extremely cold weather, some pets who live outdoors, may need to be brought inside.  However, make sure that your pets are protected from open fires or wood burners by using a safety screen to prevent accidents.

All pets’ needs are different but many will need time outdoors limited when temperatures drop.  You will need to invest more time playing with your pet indoors, provide new toys and create indoor obstacle courses to ensure they are mentally and physically stimulated.

If you pet is short-haired or is particularly sensitive to the cold weather, research bespoke coats for dogs (and cats) that will help. Make sure the clothing fits well and doesn’t restrict their movement.

Be aware of the signs of frostbite (pale or discoloured skin) and hypothermia (shivering, lethargy, weakness) in your pets. If you notice these symptoms, consult a veterinarian.

Salt and de-icing chemicals used on sidewalks and roads can be harmful for your pets.  After walks, wipe their paws to remove any salt or ice-melting chemicals that can be harmful if ingested. If you purchase any anti freeze products for use in your house, be extra careful as these products are toxic for pets.

Some pets may feel the cold and therefore need more calories to stay warm and maintain a healthy body weight. Other pets may have reduced their exercise and therefore need slightly less.  Either way, it is important to monitor their weight and size.  Always ask your vet for advice if you have any concerns.

Ensure that your pet has access to fresh water at all times. Check their water bowl frequently to prevent it from freezing.

Older pets may be more sensitive to extreme cold. Pay special attention to their needs and consult with a vet about any age-related concerns.

Stick to a regular feeding and exercise routine to help your pet maintain a healthy weight and energy level during the winter.  Maintaining your pet’s coat during winter is essential. Regular grooming not only keeps them looking their best but also helps maintain the insulation properties of their fur.

Consider scheduling a winter check-up with your veterinarian. They can assess your pet’s health and discuss any specific winter care recommendations based on their breed and individual needs. Winter pet care involves being attentive to your pet’s specific needs and providing a safe and warm environment. While winter can be a wonderful time for both humans and our pets, extra care is necessary. By following these tips and being vigilant, you can ensure that your furry friends enjoy a cosy, and healthy winter season.

The Festive holiday season is a time to gather with family and friends. However, while we are focused on entertaining relatives and preparing the next celebratory meal, our pets can find their routines disrupted.  At this time of year, our homes may also be filled with additional hazards for our pets. Some decorations, plants and indulgent human food, may be toxic for our pets.

To ensure a happy and stress-free holiday season for both your pets and your family, it’s crucial to remain mindful of their wellbeing. Here are our top tips:

Beware Chocolate and Sweets:

Over the festive season, it may be more tempting to give your pet a human food treat.  However, foods such as raisins, grapes, onions, garlic and chocolate can be toxic for pets.  Even small amounts of chocolate can be extremely dangerous causing vomiting, diarrhoea and sometimes more severe problems.

Avoid Raisins and some nuts:

Grapes and their dried variants, such as currants, sultanas, and raisins, as well as macademia nuts, pose severe health risks to dogs. These ingredients are commonly found in Christmas favourites like fruitcake, pudding, and mince pies. Onions are another potential hazard as they can upset a pet’s stomach.

Keep Alcohol Away:

Pets can be affected by alcohol in much the same way as humans, resulting in symptoms such as wobbliness and drowsiness. In severe cases, it can be highly toxic. Keep pets away from any unattended glasses of alcohol left around during the festive season.

Mind Human Food left overs:

Human food, especially the rich and fatty dishes typically enjoyed during the holidays, can lead to sickness and digestive problems. Additionally, cooked bones can splinter and puncture the digestive tract. If you want to treat your pet, choose specially formulated commercial treats.  It is recommended that no more than 10% of a pet’s calorific intake over a week or day come from treats.


Carefully locate Decorations and Gifts:

Curious pets might see festive decorations like baubles, tinsel, tree lights, wrapping paper, and ribbons as enticing playthings. However, these items can be dangerous if broken and if ingested can lead to blockages in a pet’s digestive system, which may require surgical intervention. Lit candles and open flames can also pose a fire hazard.

Beware Poisonous Plants:

Several common holiday plants, including poinsettias, holly, mistletoe, and ivy, can be toxic to cats and dogs, often causing stomach upset and other health problems. Additionally, be cautious of the sharp needles on Christmas trees.

Protect from Loud Noises and Fireworks:

Fireworks and loud holiday parties can be frightening for pets. Create a quiet, safe space for them to retreat to, and consider playing soothing music or using white noise to drown out loud sounds.

Manage Visitors in the house:

Some pets may become anxious or stressed with a lot of visitors. If you have a houseful of relatives, ensure your pet has a quiet space where they can retreat if they feel overwhelmed. Remind guests not to feed your pets any table scraps and to be cautious when opening doors, as pets may try to escape.

Seek Veterinary Care:

While we can do our best to pet-proof our homes during the holiday season, accidents can still happen. If you ever suspect that your pet has ingested something harmful, consult your veterinarian immediately. Rapid intervention can make all the difference in ensuring a happy and healthy holiday season for your pets.


Please remember that pets are for life and not just for Christmas.  Having a pet is a great responsibility.  If you are considering a new dog, cat, small mammal or bird, then please do your research and remember it is a long-term commitment. Please read our previous blog on ‘Getting a pet responsibly’ for more advice.

The Netherlands was the first country in the world to ban ownership of pets with bodily characteristics or features that are harmful, including flat faced companion animal breeds. In this blog post we’ll explore the reasons why.

Vets around Europe and globally are highlighting a lack of awareness amongst pet parents about the health impacts for animals that are bred for a specific look. Some features such as a flat nose, a sloping back, bulging or droopy eyes, skin folds, or a round skull can be so extreme that they actually cause (sometimes extreme!) pain and suffering for our furry friends.

To give a concrete example of popular breeds: the flat faces and stocky build of dogs such as the pug and the French and English bulldog cause a range of serious disorders. Most of these dogs are chronically out of breath and are even more susceptible to heat strokes than the average dog breed. Their ‘snoring’ which some may find cute or funny is exactly the opposite – they are struggling to breath!

The flattening of the muzzle which gives the flat-faced look is generally associated with a longer soft palate, covering the glottis, and causing massive respiratory distress. The nostrils are usually narrowed (stenotic) which decreases air flow into the network within the nasal passage (nasal turbinates). This network is meant to help with temperature regulation, humidifying the air before it passes to the lungs and in flat-faced pets these are already smaller than in mesocephalic breeds. As a consequence, these dogs usually have decreased capacity for exercise and much less tolerance to high temperatures.

Other harmful features include the nose fold, which is typical to these breeds and causes skin and eye infections.

And when it comes to cats, those with folded ears, typically the Scottish fold, look like that because they have a genetic cartilage disorder that also causes painful joints and joint diseases.

Factors like these can cause dogs, cats and even rabbits, to live uncomfortable but also unhealthy lives, full of health emergencies and veterinary interventions. Leading to higher veterinary costs and a shorter lifespan.

We want our pets to live a healthy and happy life, so we must not overlook the fact that prioritising looks over health makes having a happy life more difficult. Pets are about so much more than just their looks. They are a part of our families! And just like any family member, we want them to be healthy and be able to live comfortable lives.

If you are considering buying or adopting a pet, make sure you research the common health issues associated with the breed or talk to a veterinarian you trust. When buying from a breeder, always request the animal’s health history and ask about the parents, including breed specific data. Don’t forget to check also that the animal is registered and has their ID chip.

Making a conscious choice will help you share a unique long-lived bond with your fur baby!

Are You Ready to Embrace Equine Responsibility?

Taking the reins as a horse owner is a thrilling adventure, but it’s essential to recognize that this journey comes with a range of responsibilities that are similar to those of a dog or cat parent. Before welcoming a horse into your life, it’s crucial to delve into the world of equine care and understand the unique needs these majestic creatures possess. With careful consideration and preparedness, you can ensure that you embark on this journey equipped to provide your equine companion with the time, care and attention they truly deserve.

The Economics of Equine Companionship

The economic facets of horse ownership are as significant as the emotional ones. From the moment you decide to become a horse owner, you’ll find yourself navigating through a series of financial commitments that go far beyond the initial purchase (that is likely to be minimal compared to the costs that will follow).

Just as a dog requires sustenance, horses (in a much larger scale) demand a steady supply of nutritious food, quality hay, and potentially specialised supplements. On top of that, the pre-purchasing exam, boarding and registration fees, public liability insurance, routine veterinary check-ups, unexpected medical emergencies, regular hoof care, stable renting or maintenance, and training expenses, all factor into the financial equation.

Crafting a comprehensive budget that encompasses all potential expenses, as well as a reserve fund for emergencies and health insurance is key. A solid financial plan ensures that your horse’s well-being is never compromised. According to FEI, horse ownership costs can run from €3,500 to €10,000 annually.

Choosing your horse

Horses, different breeds in particular, come with distinct behaviours, personalities, and requirements. Engaging in comprehensive research about horses is paramount prior to purchase. With prior knowledge acquired you can select a horse whose temperament aligns harmoniously with your lifestyle, daily routine, level of experience, expectations, etc. Remember, a well-matched partnership ensures both you and your horse thrive together!

Ensuring Equine Welfare

Making sure to cover all of the five freedoms is just as important for horse as for any other animal.

Freedom from disease, injury, and pain:

Freedom from hunger and thirst:

Freedom from discomfort:

Freedom from fear and distress:

Freedom to express normal behaviour:

Avoid humanising your horse, let him be a horse, get dirty, run, play, etc.

In Conclusion

Taking on the role of a horse owner is an awe-inspiring commitment that requires dedication, resources, and a genuine passion for these incredible animals. By approaching equine care with a high sense of responsibility you’re poised to embark on a journey of companionship, growth, and mutual enrichment that transcends the ordinary. So, saddle up and embrace the path of responsible horse care – a journey that promises endless rewards for both you and your equine friend.

Owning a horse is very different from owning a donkey. You can find more information here on donkeys.

Other useful resources

FearFree

World horse welfare

British horse society

Just like us, staying hydrated is essential to keep your fur-baby’s health and well-being. It’s even more important during hot summer months.


Keep an eye on water levels

It can be hard to know exactly how much water your pet is drinking, paying attention to how much has gone each time you refill their bowls can help. It can harder for cat parents, so you will need to be extra vigilant to see if they’re drinking enough.

All pets need more water during the hotter months of the year. So remember to always bring water with you when you take your dog for a walk, leave an extra bowl in your rabbit’s hutch and if your cat likes to venture outside, make sure to leave a bowl in your garden or on your terrace.

It’s also important to be mindful of the activity levels or your four-legged friends. Really active pets will drink more water than calmer pets and may need more water available.

Keeping your pet hydrated in hot days

  • Have multiple water bowls of fresh water around the house to give your furry friend plenty opportunities to stay hydrated
  • Some animals, particularly cats, prefer to drink running water, so automatic water fountains can stimulate them drink a bit more.
  • Make them frozen treats! Ice cubes or frozen treats not only help keep them hydrated but also cool them down, great for really hot days.
  • Consider wet food or add a little bit of water to their dry food. Including water in their meals or treats will also increase their daily intake and help keep them hydrated throughout the day.
  • Giving you pet rabbits fresh vegetables that are rich in water also does the trick. But remember, only 15% of their daily food should be vegetables.

Watch out for these signs of dehydration

  • Vomiting and/or diarrhoea
  • Loss of energy
  • Excessive, ongoing panting
  • Loss of appetite
  • Sunken, dry eyes
  • Dry, sticky gums
  • Loss of skin elasticity
  • Urinating less frequently

If you have any concerns or worries always contact your vet for advice.