The summer holidays are coming to an end and many families across Europe are getting ready for the return to school, work and regular routines. While this transition can be a busy time for people, our pets notice the changes too.

After weeks of having more company at home, longer walks, extra playtime, or children around during the day, a suddenly quieter house can feel very different. With a little planning you can help your pet adjust comfortably to the new routine.

Why Routine Changes Affect Pets

Pets thrive on predictability. They quickly learn when it’s time for breakfast, walks, playtime and down time. During the summer those routines often change. Family members may spend more time at home, bedtimes become more flexible and daily schedules shift.

When school starts again, pets may suddenly find themselves spending more time alone or following a very different daily rhythm. Some animals adapt easily, while others may show signs of stress or confusion.

Common signs that a pet is struggling with a change in routine include:

  • Increased vocalisation
  • Restlessness
  • Destructive behaviour
  • Changes in appetite
  • Seeking more attention than usual
  • Sleeping more or less than normal

👉 Recognising these signs early can help make the transition smoother.

Start Preparing Before the First School Day

One of the easiest ways to help pets adjust is to make changes gradually. If your household schedule will soon change significantly, try introducing the new routine a week or two in advance. Start shifting feeding times, walks or quiet periods closer to what they will look like during the school term.

👉 This allows your pet to adapt gradually rather than experiencing a sudden change overnight.

Keep Active Time a Priority

Many pets enjoy having extra activity during the holidays. Once everyone returns to school or work, it can be tempting to squeeze walks and playtime into whatever time is left.

However, maintaining regular exercise remains important for both physical and mental wellbeing!

For dogs, a morning walk before the school run can help start the day positively. Cats, rabbits and other companion animals can also benefit from dedicated play or enrichment sessions before and after the house becomes quiet.

👉 Even 10–15 minutes of focused interaction can make a difference.

Make Alone Time Easier

Some pets may find an empty house a little strange after a busy summer.

To help them settle:

  • Leave favourite toys available
  • Create a comfortable resting space
  • Keep access to fresh water
  • Consider puzzle feeders or enrichment activities
  • Leave a familiar blanket or bedding nearby

The goal is not to keep pets constantly occupied but to help them feel secure and comfortable while home alone.

Don’t Forget the #PetPower

Returning to school can be exciting, but it can also bring a little stress for both children and adults. Pets often provide a welcome source of comfort during these busy periods.

Taking a few minutes to reconnect after school or work can be good for everyone. Whether it’s a quick game, a cuddle on the sofa or a walk around the neighbourhood, these everyday interactions help strengthen the human-animal bond.

A Little Patience Goes a Long Way

Every pet adapts differently. Some will settle into the new routine within days, while others may need more time.

Consistency, patience and positive interactions help make the transition smoother. By maintaining familiar routines and making time for enrichment and companionship, our pets can feel secure even when life becomes busier again.

When a new member joins the family, whether two-legged or four-legged, many (pet) parents naturally feel curious or slightly unsure about how the bond between the child and the animal will develop. The good news is that children and pets often form very strong, positive relationships that can support a child’s emotional and social development. Growing up with a pet can help children learn responsibility, build confidence, and express emotions in healthy ways.

With a little guidance and understanding, these relationships can be safe, rewarding, and help reduce risks such as dog bites for everyone involved. Learning how to prepare for and recognise stressful situations can go a long way toward avoiding unwanted incidents and fostering a safe, positive human-animal bond.

Understanding Body Language Is Key

Animal attacks are often the result of situations in which the animal feels uncomfortable, stressed, or threatened. For example, a child may unknowingly disturb a pet while eating or invade its personal space, causing the animal stress and anxiety.

One of the most important safety measures parents can take is to never leave young children interacting with pets unattended. As children grow older, it is equally important to teach them that animals experience emotions too. Pets can feel happiness and excitement, but they can also experience fear, stress, and discomfort. Teaching children to recognise and respect these emotions helps create safer and more positive interactions.

There are several common signs of anxiety in animals that children can also learn to recognise:

These signals often indicate that the animal is feeling uneasy and needs space.

Setting Boundaries: Safe Spaces for Everyone

Human-animal interactions can bring a wide range of emotions, from joy and excitement to stress, fear, or occasional sense of being overwhelmed. It is important to remember that animals communicate differently from humans, and their behaviour can sometimes be misunderstood.

For example, an overly excited dog may jump up or accidentally knock someone over while trying to lick them as a greeting. From the dog’s perspective, this is friendly and enthusiastic behaviour, but because animals are not always aware of their size or strength, unintentional injuries can occur. Similarly, puppies often use gentle biting during play with their littermates, which may not be suitable in interactions with small children.

Another example is a shy or fearful cat that prefers limited interaction. Loud noises, sudden movements, or unwanted physical contact from children can cause stress, sometimes leading to defensive behaviours such as scratching or biting.

At the same time, children may not always recognise animal boundaries and may treat pets like toys. Rough play, chasing, or overly energetic interactions can overwhelm animals and increase the likelihood of negative experiences.

For this reason, introductions between children and pets should be gradual. Interactions should never be forced, even when well-intentioned. Respecting boundaries on both sides helps build trust and a positive relationship between children and animals. Early interactions are best kept short and calm, lasting around 10 to 15 minutes. If either the child or the animal shows signs of stress or discomfort, both should be given access to a quiet “safe space” where they can relax. These simple boundaries help prevent negative experiences and allow trust to develop naturally over time.

For many families, the early stages of introducing a child and a pet can feel delicate. However, with a few simple strategies such as supervision, preparation, and guidance, most risks can be significantly minimised. With patience and consistency, these relationships can grow into safe, positive, and deeply rewarding bonds.

Other resources

Spaying or neutering a pet used to sound like a simple yes‑or‑no decision. These days, many pet owners are discovering it’s a little more nuanced than that.

Whether you share your life with a curious cat or an energetic dog, understanding the why, when, and if of neutering can help you make the best choice for your furry family member.

Why Spaying and Neutering Matters

Spaying and neutering have long played an important role in companion animal care. One of the biggest benefits? Preventing unwanted litters.

📌 Fewer accidental pregnancies mean fewer animals ending up in shelters and that’s a win for animal welfare!

There are also medical benefits in some cases. For example, spaying can prevent serious infections of the uterus (called pyometra), and neutering may be recommended for certain testicular or prostate conditions. These procedures can be genuinely life‑saving when there’s a clear medical reason.

Behaviour and Lifestyle: It’s Not Just About Hormones

Some pet owners consider neutering to help with behaviour, such as roaming, marking, or certain types of aggression. While neutering can help in selected cases, it’s not a magic fix.

Behaviour is influenced by many factors, including training, environment, and social experiences.

📌 If behaviour is a concern, your vet may recommend combining medical advice with support from a qualified behaviour specialist to explore the best approach.

Cats, Shelter Pets, and Special Situations

For cats, especially those with outdoor access, spaying or neutering is often strongly recommended to prevent roaming, fighting, and unwanted kittens. In shelter and rescue settings, neutering plays a crucial role in managing overpopulation and improving overall welfare.

📌 As always, individual circumstances matter. Health status, lifestyle, and living environment all play a role in determining what’s best.

Talk It Through With Your Vet

The most important takeaway? There’s no universal rule that works for every pet.

Today’s veterinary guidance encourages shared decision‑making. That means pet owners and veterinarians working together to weigh the pros and cons for each individual animal—considering breed, size, age, health, and lifestyle.

📌 Your vet isn’t there to push you toward one decision, but to help you make an informed choice at the right time, for the right reasons.

The Bottom Line for Pet Owners

📌 Spaying and neutering remain valuable tools in companion animal care.

If you’re unsure what’s right for your pet, don’t stress. Your veterinarian is your most reliable source of guidance, so don’t hesitate to ask questions and discuss what’s right for your pet as an individual.

Pets around the world face a persistent, but often invisible, risk: parasites.
Fleas, ticks, worms, and other parasites can cause discomfort, serious illness, and in some cases life-threatening disease. Some parasites and the infections they carry can also spread to people, putting households at risk.
But, with the right veterinary advice and preventive care, you can keep your pets safe and your home parasite-free. Here are some tips on how to protect your pet.

Key Tips

📌 Keep your home clean: Regularly vacuum your home and wash any pet bedding in hot water to help prevent flea infestations.
📌 Practice pet and personal hygiene: Always pick up after your pet when they relieve themselves, and wash your hands after handling toilet bags or cleaning litter boxes.
📌 Check your pet after walks: After outdoor adventures, do a quick “tick check” on your pet, especially around the ears, paws, and belly.
📌 Schedule regular vet check-ups: Set a reminder to check your pet’s flea, tick, and worm prevention schedule to ensure they’re always protected, and schedule a regular check-up with your vet to ensure their personal parasite prevention plan is up-to-date.

The changing risks of parasites

Evidence from around the world underscores the high risk of parasites. In the United States, over a million dogs test positive for heartworm each year, while sampling done across veterinary clinics and dog parks consistently find parasitic infections. In Europe, heartworm has expanded across multiple countries and become endemic in new areas, while in parts of Latin America, Africa, and Asia, free-roaming animal populations and a changing climate can contribute to a very high parasite prevalence.

As parasite prevention is a cornerstone of pet care, it is important to note that with rising temperatures allowing parasites to thrive in new areas, pet owners may need to adjust their prevention routines to adapt to new risks.

Tailoring prevention plans

The value of parasite prevention is well documented. Nobody wants parasite infections and infestations that can lead to pain and suffering in their pets, and in some cases death. Preventing infections before they occur can help reduce these harms and limits the potential for parasites to spread more widely within households and communities.

Because no two animals are the same, effective parasite prevention should never follow a one-size-fits-all approach.

Optimal prevention strategies should be developed in consultation with a veterinarian, taking into account a pet’s individual needs, local risks, and living conditions. Veterinary guidance helps ensure that prevention approaches remain appropriate, effective, and responsive over time.

How Parasites Affect People

Preventing parasite infections is an essential way to protect pet health and help reduce risks to people, so parasite prevention isn’t just about keeping your pet comfortable—it’s about protecting public health, and the environment.

By staying informed and using effective prevention strategies, you can keep your pets, your family, and your home safe from unwanted pests. Parasite prevention also strengthens the bond between pets and their owners by helping animals live healthier, safer lives.

Raising Awareness

To help pet owners stay informed, initiatives like World Parasite Awareness Day are working to:

  • Support Research: Continued studies on new treatments and vaccines will improve parasite control in the future.
  • Educate the Public: By sharing information on parasite risks and prevention, more pets and people can stay safe.
  • Encourage Sustainable Practices: Responsible use of parasite control products can help minimise environmental impacts.

Learn more about World Parasite Awareness Day.

How to keep your finned friends happy, healthy, and swimming strong

Keeping pet fish is a little like gardening, you get the beauty and calm, but you also need patience, regular care, and some know-how. While an aquarium can be a stunning addition to your home, fish are far from “easy pets.” They have specific needs, need routine care and a happy tank means a healthy tank. Let’s dive into the essentials.

Choosing your fish wisely

Before you buy fish, think about what suits your space, your budget, and your level of experience.

  • Goldfish:Europe’s most famous fishy friend are often thought to live just five years and stay small, but in the right conditions, they can grow over 30 cm and live for 25 years! Common goldfish are the hardiest, while fancy breeds may have delicate health due to selective breeding.
  • Freshwater tropical fish: From guppies to tetras, tropical fish bring colour and variety to your aquarium. Some are shoaling fish (they prefer a group), while others are territorial and need space. Like goldfish, selectively bred tropical fish can face welfare issues, so choose responsibly.
  • Corydoras catfish: These friendly, bottom-dwelling freshwater fish are perfect for community aquariums. They’re peaceful, social, and happiest in groups of six or more. Corydoras’ whisker-like barbels help them sense leftover food in the gravel, resulting in cleaner tanks, but they still need their own proper diet and a soft substrate to protect them from injury.

📌 Tip: Always ask your retailer where their fish come from. Avoid wild-caught species, as they’re often taken in ways that harm both the fish and their natural habitats.

Setting up your aquarium

Each fish has its own needs, here are some things you’ll have to consider setting up their space:

  • Pick the right tank size: Bigger is better. A single betta fish needs at least 20–40 litres, while a goldfish should have around 300 litres. Small bowls are for good reasons banned in some European cities, as they don’t provide enough oxygen or swimming room.
  • Cycle before you buy: “Fishless cycling” means running your tank for at least two weeks before adding fish. This lets good bacteria grow and makes the environment safe.
  • Filter and flow: A filter keeps water clean, but water movement should match your fish’s natural habitat. Bettas, for example, prefer calm water.
  • Temperature and lighting:Tropical fish like warmer water, while goldfish prefer cooler conditions. Use a thermometer and heater if needed and set up lighting that mimics natural day–night cycles.
  • Décor and plants: Add hiding places and plants, real ones help filter water and make your aquarium more natural. Change things up occasionally so your fish can explore.

Everyday fish care

Think of your tank as a tiny ecosystem. It needs regular upkeep:

Where (and where not) to get your fish

Skip funfair “prizes” and online postal delivery, as both cause unnecessary stress and high mortality rates. Instead, find rehoming centres and reputable aquatics shops.

Clean tanks, healthy fish, and knowledgeable staff are a must!

Red flags in shops: cloudy water, dead fish in tanks, fish with visible sores, or cramped conditions.

Respecting your fish

Fish aren’t ornaments; they’re intelligent animals. Some species can even learn faster than dogs! They communicate, form social bonds, and need stimulation.

If you already have fish, you can make their lives better by:

  • Giving them space to swim naturally
  • Offering enrichment with plants, rocks, and hiding places
  • Keeping their tank in a quiet area
  • Maintaining stable water conditions year-round

With the right preparation, care, and respect, keeping fish can be a peaceful, rewarding hobby that lasts for years. As one famous animated fish said, “Fish aren’t meant to be in a box, kid.”

📌 While we can’t give them the whole ocean, we can give them a home worth swimming in.

Further resources

For many of us, pets are more than companions—they’re family. The deep bond we share with our cats and dogs often finds expression in the way we care for them, especially through food and treats. A tasty snack becomes a symbol of love and a reward for good behaviour, an increased portion of food shows our affection and makes them happy. But in our efforts to reward or spoil them just a little, we may unintentionally put their health at risk. Maintaining a healthy weight is one of the most important things we can do to ensure our cats and dogs live long, active, and happy lives.

Why a Healthy Weight Matters

Being overweight can seriously impact a pet’s health. It increases the risk of diabetes, joint problems, heart and respiratory issues, and can even shorten their lifespan. For cats, excess weight can also reduce mobility and grooming ability. For dogs, it may affect their stamina, behaviour, and overall wellbeing. Keeping pets at an ideal weight not only supports physical health—it helps them feel more energetic and comfortable in their daily lives.

Spotting the Signs: Is My Pet Overweight?

It is crucial to check your pet’s weight regularly, but monitoring a number on a scale might not be enough. Body condition scoring (BCS) in addition to body weight measurement is a quick method that considers your pet’s shape and any layers of fat over their contours, to give you an idea of whether they are underweight, at ideal weight, or overweight. This hands-on and visual check looks at features like the visibility of ribs and waistline. At a healthy weight:

Handy visual charts prepared by the World Small Animal Veterinary Association (WSAVA) can guide you in evaluating your pet’s status. If you’re unsure, your vet can help assess your pet’s body condition and provide tailored advice.

Top Tips for Maintaining a Healthy Weight

  1. Feed the Right Amount
    Use feeding guidelines on pet food packaging as a starting point, adjusting based on your pet’s activity level, age, and health. Use a scale or measuring cup to stay consistent.
  2. Watch the Treats
    Treats should be no more than 10% of your pet’s daily energy intake. Consider healthier options or use part of their daily food ration as treats.
  3. Stay Active Together
    Regular activity is essential. Daily playtime for cats and walks or play sessions for dogs help burn calories and strengthen your bond.
  4. Weigh Regularly
    Monitor your pet’s weight routinely—monthly is ideal. Small changes can be managed more easily than major weight loss efforts later on.
  5. Choose the Right Food
    A complete and balanced diet formulated for your pet’s life stage and lifestyle is key. Light or “weight management” foods can help in some cases, especially for pets prone to weight gain.

Every Pet is Unique

What works for one cat or dog may not be right for another. Always talk to your vet if you have concerns about your pet’s weight or diet. Together, you can create a plan that suits their individual needs.

Helping our pets maintain a healthy weight is one of the most meaningful ways we can care for them. With a little attention and consistency, you can keep your four-legged friend happy, healthy, and full of life.

Additional Resources

Parasites might be small, but they can cause big problems for both pets and people. From itchy flea infestations to serious diseases like Lyme disease, these tiny creatures are more than just an annoyance—they can affect the overall health and well-being of our pets. The good news? With the right knowledge and preventive care, you can keep your pets safe and your home parasite-free. Here’s what every pet parent needs to know!

The Hidden Dangers of Parasites

Parasites fall into two main categories: external parasites (like fleas and ticks) and internal parasites (like worms and protozoa). While they primarily affect pets, some can also spread to humans. That’s why regular prevention is key!

Fleas: More Than Just an Itchy Problem

Fleas can cause major discomfort for pets, leading to skin allergies and infections. But did you know they can also spread tapeworms? Because flea eggs and larvae hide in carpets, bedding, and outdoor spaces, getting rid of them requires more than just treating your pet—you’ll also need to clean your home thoroughly.

📌 Tip: Regularly vacuum your home and wash pet bedding in hot water to help prevent flea infestations.

Ticks: Small but Dangerous

Ticks latch onto pets (and humans!), feeding on blood and transmitting dangerous diseases like Lyme disease and anaplasmosis. With climate change expanding their habitat, ticks are becoming a problem in areas where they weren’t before.

📌 Tip: After outdoor adventures, do a quick “tick check” on your pet, especially around the ears, paws, and belly.

Worms and Other Internal Parasites

📌 Tip: Always pick up after your pet and wash your hands after handling soil or litter boxes.

How Parasites Affect People

Some pet parasites can be passed to humans, making prevention a shared responsibility.

  • Toxoplasmosis & Cat Litter: Toxoplasma gondii spreads through cat faeces, so it’s important to clean litter boxes regularly and wash hands after handling them.
  • Tick-Borne Diseases & Outdoor Safety: Ticks thrive in tall grass and wooded areas, so keep your yard well-maintained and use tick preventatives on your pets.

For more detailed information on zoonotic diseases, check out the CDC’s guide to pet-related infections.

Climate Change & Parasite Spread

  • Rising temperatures allow parasites to thrive in new areas, meaning pet owners may need to adjust their prevention routines.

Spreading Awareness: Why It Matters

To help pet owners stay informed, initiatives like World Parasite Awareness Day are working to:

  • Educate the Public: By sharing information on parasite risks and prevention, more pets and people can stay safe.
  • Encourage Responsible Use: Product labels and packaging provide clear instructions for using a product effectively and safely, and vets can provide further advice. Owners should also follow any included instructions on how to properly dispose of any products after use, and any containers or packaging.
  • Support Research: Continued studies on new treatments and vaccines will improve parasite control in the future.

Learn more about World Parasite Awareness Day.

Be Proactive!

Parasite prevention isn’t just about keeping your pet comfortable—it’s about protecting our shared One Health. By staying informed and using effective prevention strategies, you can keep your pets, your family, and your home safe from unwanted pests.

📌 Tip: Set a reminder to check your pet’s flea, tick, and worm prevention schedule to ensure they’re always protected!

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.

General Guidelines

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.

Oral Medication: Pills

  • 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.

Liquid Medication

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.

Injectable Medication

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.

Additional Tip: Never Give Up

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.

Manage Visitors in the house:

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.

Beware Chocolate and Sweets:

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.

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 and garlic are another potential hazard as they can upset a pet’s stomach.

Keep Alcohol Out of Reach:

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.

Christmas Dinner Leftovers Should be Kept for People:

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.

Tinsel and Tree Decorations

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.

Poisonous Plants

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

Loud noises and fireworks

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.

Seek Veterinary Care if you’re concerned:

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.

Extra Reading:

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…

 Pre- trip preparation:

  • 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

Travelling by car:

  • 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

Traveling by plane:

  • 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.

Monitor for Signs of Heat Stress

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.

Prevention and early diagnostics

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

Vaccination

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 Health

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.


Routine Testing

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.


Regular check-ups could save you money


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.


Less stressful vet visit


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!