The Haslemere Pet Company - Latest Blog Entries

"There Are No Fleas On Me!" Preventing External Parasites

Wed, 02 Mar 2011 19:54:00 +0000

It’s never too early to start preparing for the flea season, so here are our top tips on how you can keep the little buggers at bay.

1. Keep it Clean: Hoover rugs, furniture, curtains, dog beds, and anything else you can think of at least once a week. Use a “shake and vac” type flea protector powder once a month (even in the winter), and make sure to dispose of the hoover bag promptly. Oh and don’t forget to Hoover the car or anywhere else your pet has been.

2. Wash Dog/Cat Bedding: Wash your pet’s bedding at least once a week on the hottest temperature approved by the manufacturer (check the tag for recommendations). Wash out all crates with an appropriate disinfectant.

3. Tidy Up Your Garden: Sweep up dead leaves/debris and treat your patio/steps with an appropriate cleaner.

4. Use a Preventive “Spot On” During the Height of the Season: Johnson’s do a range of size appropriate preventive treatments which keep dogs and cats flea free for up to three months. Make sure your dog or cat does not currently have fleas as preventative treatments will not kill them. Also make sure that you do not use cat treatments on dogs or vice versa.

5. Avoid Walking in Popular Areas with Long Grass: Fleas, and their even uglier friend the tick, love to hang out in long grass so try to avoid. Lots of dogs in a concentrated area make it more likely that fleas will follow, so try a few new walks off the beaten path.

6. Try a Herbal Supplement: Make sure it’s the right one! Garlic tablets have NEVER been proven to prevent flea infestations. The only thing they will do is make your dog stink. Garlic, if taken in large doses can actually harm your pet, so if you’re looking for a natural remedy, try Billy No Mates. Billy contains no garlic, but does have lots of other lovely herbs that seem to repel fleas and ticks. Although there is no scientific evidence to support its effectiveness, I use it with my boys as it won’t do them any harm and it may even do them some good. You must start Billy No Mates now as it takes 4-6 weeks for the herbs to have the proper effect.

7. Have Fleas Now? First Stop the Vets: These tips are all well and good if you don’t currently have fleas, but if you do, you must first get rid. This will mean a trip to the vet for some proper flea killing spot ons. You must also treat your house and your car or your pet will simply become re-infected once the spot on wears off.

Following these tips won’t guarantee that your home stays flea free of course, but they have worked for us. Please note that even when putting these tips into practice, you must still treat for internal parasites and stay vigilant for signs of Lungworm.

Smelly Dog? Might Be More Than Meets The Nose.......

Tue, 25 Jan 2011 20:58:00 +0000

Fellow dog owners, I feel your pain! Or should that read “I smell your pain”? Mud, rain, snow, puddles and mucky ponds all play their part creating that dreaded smell. Throw in a puppy who also likes to roll in you know what, and bingo! Welcome to Dog Pong Land - guaranteed to infest your house, your car and possibly even you.

But all is not completely lost, as most smells can be minimised by regular grooming, using the correct products, and not over doing it on the bathing front. Truth be told, some dogs do smell more than others, but did you know that not all smells are created equal? Fact is, some smells may be a sign that not all is right with your pet.

Time to See the Vet?

So you’ve washed, dried, sprayed, and groomed Fido to within an inch of his life, but a lingering scent still remains. Before you rush out and buy even more products, stop to think if there could be an underlying medical issue.

1. Breath: Dental problems are the first thing to check if you suspect it’s dog breath you’re smelling. Look for swollen gums, plaque, rotten teeth or unusual growths. If you don’t spot anything, bear in mind that other health conditions can produce odours in the mouth such as kidney failure, and diabetes.

2. Infected Ears: Ears infected with mites, or plagued by an infection are often red, mucky, warm to the touch, and smell. To high heaven.

3. Anal Glands/Sacs: Used to mark a dog’s territory (one bowl movement at a time!), impacted, or infected anal glands/sacs are one of the most common causes of smelly dog syndrome. If your dog has also been dragging his or her rear end along the floor, you may have found the culprit.

4. Atopy: Atopy is an inflammation of the skin and is primarily caused by seasonal allergies, or food allergies/ intolerances. This condition triggers an over production of sebum, which can give the coat an oily feel and a musty smell. Poor diet often lies at the root of this problem but age inappropriate diet is another, often overlooked, cause.

If you suspect that your dog’s smell might be caused by any of the above, please seek the advice of your veterinary surgeon. This is by no means a complete list, but if you’ve tried grooming your dog with quality products and the smell still won’t go away, it’s time to follow your nose …..straight down to the vet’s.

Winter Tips for Chilly Pets

Fri, 03 Dec 2010 14:13:00 +0000

First posted January, 2010

Brr…Baby, it's cold outside! If you're anything like me, the second you get home you are reaching for your woolies and having a cuppa - but what about your pets?

Certain dog breeds are more affected by the cold than others, and older pets even more so. Rabbits, Guinea Pigs, and Aviary Birds are also feeling the cold, and don’t even talk about cats as many are simply refusing to go outside at all!

So here are a few of our top tips to keep them comfy.

Keep them indoors:

Bring Rabbit/Guinea Pig hutches inside. Move them to a garage or a shed or even better, purchase an indoor cage suitable for breed/number. If you can’t bring your Rabbit or Guinea Pigs indoors, PACK their hutches with lots of good quality dust extracted straw for insulation, and move the hutch away from draughts, wind, or falling snow. Clear away any snow that has accumulated on top of the hutch, and also check water bottles frequently for ice. You can buy hutch covers as well as insulated water bottles which will prevent this. Also check your fence for any gaps as foxes will be prowling about looking for food too.

Dogs should not be left outside in these conditions! No excuses whatsoever!

Cats should also be kept indoors so make sure you provide them with a litter tray and a good supply of suitable cat litter. Cats who are used to going outside don't really fancy crystal type litters, so stick to good old fashioned Fuller's Earth (which can double as grit for your path if you're really stuck).

Aviary Birds present more of a challenge, but try your best to provide some sort of suitable indoor cage. Even if it’s a bit on the small side, it's better for them to be somewhat cramped for a short period of time then suffer from the cold.

Protect them from the elements:

If your home is a little chilly, jackets and sweaters can keep dogs and cats warm inside the house. There are loads of fleecy dog/cat beds on the market, and you can also buy microwaveable heat pads as well as thermal heat reflecting blankets for older pets who may have difficultly generating their own body heat.

For outside use, it's better to choose a jacket that has a waterproof nylon outer covering with a warm fleecy lining rather than a fashionable “hoodie” or similar. Smaller dogs will also appreciate a jacket with a built in “belly guard” to keep their tum tums dry.

Make sure that whoever fits your dog for a coat does so properly, as an ill fitting coat is just as bad as none at all. If you feel you can’t bring your dog into the shop, measure your dog’s back from the base of his neck to the base of his tail to get a good fit.

A thin layer of Vaseline will also help protect your dog’s paws but don’t put on too much or she may pick up even more salt and grit from the road than repel. Booties are another option, but many dogs simply HATE them, and getting the right fit can often be a nightmare.

It goes without saying that you MUST keep a sensible head when embarking on a walk with your dog. If the weather is poor, and there is a high risk of frostbite, please stay indoors. Your dog won’t fall to pieces if he misses a walk, and it is better to be safe and warm at home than lost (or worse) out in the cold. If you are heading out, make sure someone knows where you are going and when you will be coming back. Keep a fully charged mobile phone with you and make sure it contains your vet’s contact details – including the practice’s emergency number.

As for Aviary Birds (if you can't bring them inside) insulate their box with lots of nest building material, and wrap the box with some old towels or fleecy blankets making sure you leave enough room for them to get in and out. Keep checking that ice and snow have not bent or twisted the aviary wire and make any repairs as soon as you spot them. Keep a close eye on water/food bowls and remove any seed that has been exposed to moisture and keep checking for ice in the water.

“Après Ski”:

When you get back from your walk, make sure you wash your dog’s feet in a bath of tepid (not hot!) water, and dry them accordingly. You may wish to work in a bit more Vaseline to keep them soft, but again don’t go mad as your dog will probably lick it off if you use too much. If your dog has picked up ice in his coat, use a warm towel to slowly work out the ice clumps. Never pull or chop out the ice as this can be quite painful – not to mention wreck his coat.

Please don’t give in to the temptation to give your dog hot drinks as this will do his tummy no favours at all. Simply make sure he has a warm, dry place to curl up that is away from draughts and close to his favorite humans!

Provide more food:

Feed your dog or cat a little more in the winter months, especially if you have been spending a lot of time outside. Don’t go crazy, as this is not the time to put weight on your pet, but a little extra kibble, or an additional .tbsp of wet food goes a long way to keep the internal furnace burning.

Some dogs may develop dry skin as moving from cold to hot environments can put more stress on already weather beaten skin. Adding a .tsp of vegetable oil to their dinner once a week may help or you can mix a .tsp of oily fish (such as sardines in sunflower oil NOT brine) with one of their daily meals. If the situation is getting out of control, you may wish to purchase a dry skin oil such as Yumega, or Vetzyme's Dry Skin Tablets - both of which are very effective in treating seasonal skin problems. Avoid over bathing your dog as this will dry his skin out even more. If you must, try a brush out shampoo which will get him smelling fresh and clean in no time.

Aviary Birds will be especially hungry but breaking up seed uses valuable energy so make it easier for them by providing easy to eat high energy foods such as already shelled sunflower seeds, and blocks of fat similar to wild bird treats. Put extra bowls in the aviary and keep them well topped up making sure to dust off any fallen snow as soon as possible to avoid the seed freezing or spoiling. Keep checking their water supply and break up any ice. A wine cork placed in the bowl can help keep the water from freezing, provided they don't see it as a toy and chuck it out!

Rabbits and Guinea Pigs would also appreciate a bit more food, but try to provide them with more roughage instead of pellets. Lots more hay or alfalfa grasses will give them plenty of extra energy and whatever isn't eaten can provide further insulation.

Still have questions?

Remember, we are here to help, so please ring if you have any questions about keeping your pet warm. If you feel your dog could use a bit of a break from a cold walk, please pop in and take advantage of our heated shop! Tea and coffee on tap for the owner, and a nice crunchy treat for the dog.

See – every cloud has a silver lining!

Take care, and keep warm – Claire

Tags: winter tips for chilly pets, keep your pet warm

Puppy Shopping List: Puppy Toys

Mon, 10 May 2010 10:07:00 +0100

Congratulations on your new puppy! You are about to embark upon a fabulous journey, and no one can blame you for wanting to buy lots of shiny new things for the new arrival. The first few days with a puppy can be a bit stressful, so it does help to have all the supplies you need to hand.

Sadly, many puppy shopping lists are created by pet accessory companies (or indeed by pet shops!) and are designed to make you spend as much of your hard earned cash as possible.

This one is different. It’s designed to make sure that you get all the important things that you need while saving you money at the same time.

If you don’t live near our shop, please by all means print this list and take it with you wherever you decide to go – just don’t let a pushy salesperson make you buy more than you need!

Ready? Set? Let’s buy some toys!

The top toys we recommend to every new puppy person are:

A Kong (for crate time, and “brain training” time),
A Nylabone (for safe chewing and general play)
One soft toy (for cuddles)
One “Ragger” rope toy or similar (for chewing, or learning to retrieve)

Four toys might sound a bit mean, but by giving your puppy lots of things, you are actually making it harder for him to distinguish what items you want him to play with (YAH KONG!) and those you don’t (YAH REMOTE CONTROL!). You also don’t know what your puppy would “like” to play with yet, so by giving him just a few things you will get to know his likes and dislikes much quicker than by bombarding him with stuff he couldn’t care less about.

For example, my James HATES Nylabones with a passion– he really doesn’t see the point. But loves his Kong, so if I have to leave him I give him his Kong as I know that will keep him busy. If I left him with a Nylabone, then chances are it would be a case of “bye bye Mr. Sofa”.

A few other things to consider when selecting toys.

Make sure they are the right shape and size for your puppy, with the rule of thumb being if you think it’s too big, it’s probably the right size (within reason!).
Check that all the stitching is secure and won’t easily come away. There are literally hundreds of types of toys out there, and all are of varying quality. Some of the cheaper rope toys may unravel too quickly, or some types of plastic toys may shred and pose choking hazards. Keep your wits about you, and watch puppy like a hawk with any new toy.
If at all possible, try and avoid squeaky toys as these can encourage puppy to mouth or bite down on objects too hard, making it more difficult to “untrain” this behaviour if directed at humans.

Puppies need toys, but they don’t need their own toy box, nor should toys be used in place of one on one attention. Remember, the best thing you can give your dog is your time.

Adder Warning!

Wed, 28 Apr 2010 11:32:00 +0100

The recent spell of warm weather has encouraged our local Adder population to emerge from their winter hiding places.

The only venomous snake in the UK, the Common European Adder (Vipera berus) is not considered to be a particularly dangerous snake to people, but dogs are relatively frequent victims of Adder bites due to their nature of exploring undergrowth and their general inquisitiveness.

Adder bites often occur when a dog is out on a walk and exploring areas where snakes are basking in the sun. This makes them likely to disturb the snakes, either accidentally or due to their investigative actions. Dogs are frequently bitten on the face and limbs but bites can occur on any part of the body.

If your pet is bitten by an adder (or you suspect that it may have been) you should seek prompt veterinary attention. Do not attempt to suck out the venom or apply a tourniquet as these procedures are ineffective and may even cause further harm to your pet. Inform you vet that you suspect it may be an Adder bite as not all veterinary surgeries keep anti-venom in stock and you may be directed to go to a different surgery.

Please also remember, that the Adder is a protected species under The Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 (as amended), and as such it is against the law to disturb or harm the Adder in any way.

Already we have heard of one dog rushed to the vets after a bite, so keep your eyes peeled for this doggie hazard.

Spring Alert – Warmer Weather Tips for Pets

Mon, 12 Apr 2010 18:21:00 +0100

Hopefully I won’t jinx anything by saying that spring has finally sprung in Haslemere! After the horrors of Winter 2010, I expect you are all getting out and enjoying the beautiful weather with your pets, but there are already reports of accidents so please keep the following Spring Tips in mind:

1. Outdoor activities mean opening and closing doors more frequently. Be sure that you know where your pets are at all times. This is especially true for birds!

2. Time for a spring-clean? Please keep those household cleansers and chemicals out of your pets' reach. Or better yet, make your own natural alternatives as explained at All Eco Green and Beautiful

3. Some common types of houseplants and outdoor bushes, flowers and shrubs can be poisonous to your pets. TheASPCA have a great list , but it’s always a good idea to check with your vet if you’re not sure.

4. Speaking of gardening, use special care when applying fertilizers and lawn chemicals (see above for natural alternatives), and avoid mulch like the plague. Aside from causing blockages if eaten, some mulches contain cocoa bark which can be fatal to dogs if consumed in large quantities.

5. Warmer weather means BBQs, but all those yummy meat smells can create dangerous temptations! Be sure to keep your pets away from hot grills, and dispose of any cooked meat bones responsibly. NEVER give your dog or cat beer or any other form of alcoholic drink.

6. Longer days means longer walks and often in new or un familiar places. Make sure your dog has an up to date ID tag, and that his/her microchip is still in place and working. Keep your mobile with you at all times, and tell someone where you are going and what time you expect to be back. Bring a First Aid Kit with you.

6. And finally - we say it every year but every year we hear of dogs dying so please - NEVER EVER EVER leave your dog in the car.

While I'm against this practice in any kind of weather, it is particularly true at this time of the year. Don't lull yourself into a false sense of security by leaving the windows open, or parking in the shade. This will not prevent heat stroke and may even encourage the theft of your beloved pet.

Be safe, be happy, and bring on the SUN!

Rally-O Workshop for Haslemere!

Tue, 30 Mar 2010 17:58:00 +0100

Have a Go At Rally-O, the Fun New Dog Sport that's Sweeping the UK!

Rally is a fantastic new sport just introduced to this country from the USA. It's probably best described as a cross between traditional competition obedience and agility, but is marked more like working trials or the KC Good Citizens test.

The idea is that ALL dogs and ALL owners can do it - no matter what breed, skill level, talent, or disability a dog or owner may have

You may have read about Rally in Your Dog Magazine, and thought - "That sounds like great fun - I'd like to have a go at that!".

Well now you can!

APDT UK Trainers Tina and Ingrid Elias of Wagtails Canine College are offering a series of one day workshops designed to introduce new comers to the joy of Rally, and one of them is happening right here in Haslemere.

Sunday 23rd May at Haslemere Hall, Bridge Road Haslemere, Surrey

£40 for dog and handler, £20 for spectator

The workshop will run from 10AM - 4PM with refreshments and lunch also included in the price.

Places are limited so for more information, or to book your place please contact Tina on 01428648767 or 07798634222 or see their website.

www.wagtailscaninecollege.com

Booking forms will also be available from the shop, as well as The Haslemere Hall.

Look forward to seeing you there!

Claire

PS - In case you missed it the first time around, have a look at my Blog about Rally.

How to Create a Doggy First Aid Kit

Sat, 06 Mar 2010 11:00:00 +0000

It’s rare for a dog to go through its entire life without obtaining a cut or two along the way. Thankfully, most injuries are minor, but serious accidents can occur.

The best way to prepare yourself for any event is to have a fully stocked Doggy First Aid Kit in your car at all times. Putting one together is quite simple as all of the essential items listed below can be found at your local chemist or pet shop.

1 pair of latex gloves
1 pair of stainless steel scissors
1 large blanket/vetbed (to act as a stretcher, keep it in the boot at all times!)
Pressure bandages
Self stick pet bandage tape
Tick remover
1 pair of tweezers
Canine anti-bacterial ointment and/or lotion
Canine blood stop powder
Canine blood stop cotton buds
Ant-itch wipes
Anti chew spray ( suitable for use on pet bandages)
Muzzle
First Aid Booklet – to read BEFORE an emergency arises

Always have your mobile handy when out with your dog, and keep your vet’s emergency clinic number stored alongside their regular practice number.

Remember, if you don’t know what to do in case of an emergency – DON’T DO ANYTHING AT ALL – until you have spoken to a veterinary professional.

First Do No Harm – How to Find A Complementary Animal Therapist

Wed, 24 Feb 2010 10:05:00 +0000

Setting out to find a good Complementary Animal Therapist is a bit like taking a stab in the dark. In as much as the UK government is trying to regulate Human Complementary Therapists (see http://www.cnhc.org.uk for more info), little or no government regulations exist that recognise the qualifications for those of us who work with animals. There are many associations that claim to represent and monitor therapists, but if you scratch the surface, you may find that membership simply entails buying the “right” to have some letters after your name. This is not to say that all Complementary Animal Therapists are unqualified, nor does it mean that all associations are meaningless, but it does pay to have your wits about you when looking for one.

Once you’ve decided on a course of Complementary Therapy, ALWAYS discuss it with your Vet before you go as the law states that only a Veterinary Surgeon is allowed to perform or administer the following Complementary treatments on your pet: Acupuncture, Homeopathy, Aromatherapy, Herbal Medicines, Flower Essences (including Bach Flowers) and Schuessler Tissue Salts.

There are exceptions under The Veterinary Surgery (Exemptions) Order 1962 which:

“Allows for the treatment of animals by physiotherapist, provided that the animal has first been seen by a veterinary surgeon who has diagnosed the condition and decided that it should be treated by physiotherapy under his/her direction.

'Physiotherapy' is interpreted as including all kinds of manipulative therapy. It therefore includes osteopathy and chiropractic but would not, for example, include acupuncture or aromatherapy”[1]

Once your Vet has approved the treatment, he or she will more than likely furnish you with a list of Therapists which they have used before. If your Vet does not have any suggestions, but is still willing to approve the treatment, it’s a good idea to ask your chosen Therapist the following questions before you proceed.

What are your qualifications in this area? Courses and qualifications in Complementary Therapy can vary widely, ranging from two day workshops to fully accredited Diploma courses. There is also a big difference between personal interest and practitioner level, so jot down the name of the course as well as the school and then look it up on the Internet. If you don’t like the nature of the course, or doubt if it fully qualifies the Therapist to help you with your pet’s problem, look elsewhere. Also, it goes without saying that you should run a mile from a Therapist who refuses, or is unable to provide you with this information.
How long have you been practicing? In many areas of Complementary Therapy experience combined with education is king, so the longer the better. However, many Therapists who are just coming into the field often “buddy” with someone who is already established so don’t be put off by a newbie as long as they have a proven support network.
What experience do you have with treating this problem and do you have any references? Be wary of Therapists with an “I’ll have a go” attitude. Ask if you can contact former clients who have had treatment for the same problem. Most Therapists will be only too happy to furnish you with a list of references.
How many sessions will my pet need and how soon should I see an improvement? Bear in mind that response rates will vary according to age, breed, and the problem being treated, but a good Therapist should be able to give you a ball park figure or at the very least give you an idea of the industry standard once they have completed their initial assessment. They should also let you know what they plan do if your pet shows no sign of improvement, or takes a turn for the worse.
How much will treatment cost? Is this treatment covered under Pet Insurance? Costs per session should be laid out very clearly from the start of therapy. Initial consultations often cost more as the Therapist will have to take a full history of the pet as well as perform an initial assessment. Subsequent sessions tend to cost less, with some Therapists offering discounts for long term care. There may also be some additional costs should you require a written report, or if the Therapist has to travel long distances to see your pet. Some pet insurance companies are starting to cover Complementary Therapy, but it’s best to check with your service provider.
Are you insured? All professional Complementary Therapists carry insurance (either personal or are covered under a group scheme if they work out of a clinic/centre) should anything go wrong during or after treatment. Beware of those who do not.
Do you provide written reports that I can show my Vet? Again, all professional Complementary Therapists will provide full vet reports upon request although there may be an additional charge (See Q. 5). In fact, many will insist that you sign a disclaimer saying that you have made your vet aware that you are pursuing this course of Complementary Therapy.
What do you think is wrong with my pet? Is the vet right in his diagnoses? This is a bit of curve ball question I know, but it’s a very important one as it will help you separate the wheat from the chaff. NO Complementary Therapist will EVER diagnose a medical problem as by law (The Veterinary Surgeons Act 1966) only a Vet can do this for your pet. Complementary Therapists are there to do just that – provide a therapy that complements an already diagnosed medical condition and clinical treatment plan.

[1]Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons. “Treatment of Animals by Non Veterinary Surgeons”. Available at http://www.rcvs.org.uk/templates/internal.asp?nodeid=92572?2ndparentnodeid=89737?1stparentnodeid=89642#behaviourism. Last Accessed 24.2.2010.

Winter Tips for Chilly Pets

Fri, 08 Jan 2010 14:59:00 +0000

Brr…Baby, it's cold outside! If you're anything like me, the second you get home you are reaching for your woolies, lighting the fire and having a cuppa, but what about your chilly pets?

Certain dog breeds are more affected by the cold than others, and older pets or those with certain ailments, like arthritis even more so. Rabbits, Guinea Pigs, and Aviary Birds are also feeling the cold, and don’t even talk about cats as many are simply refusing to go outside at all!

So here are a few of our top tips to keep your critters comfy.

Keep them indoors:

Common sense I know, but this is the surest way to keep your pet warm. Bring Rabbit/Guinea Pig hutches inside. Move them to a garage or a shed or even better, purchase an indoor cage suitable for breed/number.

Dogs should not be left outside in these conditions! No excuses whatsoever!

Cats should also be kept indoors so make sure you provide them with a litter pan and a good supply of suitable cat litter. Cats who are used to going outside will not even think about doing their business on fancy crystal litters, so stick to goood old fashioned Fuller's Earth (which can double as grit for your path if you're really stuck).

Aviary Birds present more of a challenge, but try your best to provide some sort of suitable indoor cage. Even if it’s a tiny bit on the small side, it is better for them to be a bit cramped for a short period of time then suffer from the cold.

Protect them from the elements:

If your home is a little chilly or if you suffer from a power cut, jackets and sweaters can keep dogs and cats warm inside the house. There are loads of fleecy dog/cat beds on the market, and you can also buy microwaveable heat pads as well as thermal heat reflecting blankets for older pets who may have difficultly generating their own body heat.

If they are going outside with you into the snow (dogs more than cats!), it's better to choose a jacket that has a waterproof nylon outer covering with a warm fleecy lining and reflective qualities rather than a fashionable “hoodie” or similar. Smaller dogs will also appreciate a jacket with a built in “belly guard” to keep their tum tums dry.

Make sure that whoever fits your dog for a coat does so properly, as an ill fitting coat is just as bad as none at all. If you feel you can’t bring your dog into theshop, measure your dog’s back from the base of his neck to the base of his tail in order to ensure a good fit.

It goes without saying that you MUST keep a sensible head when embarking on a walk with your dog. If the weather is poor, and there is a risk of frostbite, please stay indoors. Your dog won’t fall to pieces if he misses a walk, and it is better to be safe and warm at home than lost (or worse) out in the cold. If you are heading out, make sure someone knows where you are going and when you will be coming back. Keep a fully charged mobile phone with you and make sure it contains your vet’s contact details – including the practice’s emergency number.

If you can’t bring your Rabbit or Guinea Pigs indoors, PACK their hutches with lots of good quality dust extracted straw for insulation, and move the hutch away from draughts, wind, or falling snow. Clear away any snow that has accumulated on top of the hutch, and also check water bottles frequently for ice. You can buy hutch covers as well as insulated water bottles which will prevent this. Also check your fence for any gaps as foxes will be prowling about looking for food too.

If you can’t bring your Aviary birds indoors, insulate their box with lots of nest building material, and if possible, wrap the box with some old towels or fleecy blankets making sure you leave enough room for them to get in and out. Keep checking that ice and snow have not bent or twisted the aviary wire and make any repairs as soon as you spot them.

“Après Ski”:

Provide more food:

Animals use up more calories in the winter trying to stay warm and this is especially true for Aviary Birds.

Feed your dog or cat a little more in the winter months, especially if you have been spending a lot of time outside. Don’t go crazy, as this is not the time to put weight on your pet, but a little extra kibble, or an additional .tbsp of wet food goes a long way to keep the internal furnace burning.

Some dogs may develop dry skin as moving from cold to hot enviroments can put more stress on already weather beaten skin. Adding a .tsp of vegetable oil to their dinner once a week may help or you can mix a .tsp of oily fish (such as sardines in sunflower oil NOT brine) with one of their daily meals. If the situation is getting out of control, you may wish to purchase a dry skin oil such as Yumega, or Vetzyme's Dry Skin Tablets - both of which are very effective in treating seasonal skin problems. Avoid over bathing your dog as this will dry his skin out even more. If you must, try a brush out shampoo which will get him smelling fresh and clean in no time.

Remember, we are here to help, so please ring if you have any questions about keeping your pet warm. And, if you feel your dog could use a bit of a break from a cold walk, please pop in and take advantage of our heated shop! Tea and coffee on tap for the owner, nice crunchy treat for the dog.

See – every cloud has a silver lining!

Take care, and keep warm – Claire

STOLEN: Two Working Cocker Spaniels

Fri, 08 Jan 2010 11:56:00 +0000

These two beautiful Working Cocker Spaniels were stolen from their home on New Year's Eve. Can you help the search in anyway by Emailing, Tweeting, or Linking to this blog? You can also download a copy of the reward poster by following the link at the bottom of this page.

Any assistance would be very much appreciated.

If you have ANY information which may lead to their safe return, please contact Paul on 07793 601523

Our heart goes out to the family during this very upsetting time,

Claire

******Posted on behalf of the family******

Dear all,

The father of my Gamekeeper, Paul Seaton, had his two working cocker
spaniels stolen from the kennel by his house on New Years Eve. He had just taken them for a walk, put them back in the kennel and gone into
his house to make a cup of tea. Within a few minutes they had gone!

Anyone who has shot here will remember seeing them work. I attach a
poster with a photo of them. Their markings are very distinctive, so
they should be easily recognisable. Because of this, it is probable
that the thieves will move them out of this area, so they could
reappear anywhere.

Sadly, it seems that theft of working dogs is becoming increasingly
common. I now realise what a terrible effect it has on those
affected.
Our whole shooting community is deeply shocked, angry and determined
to get the dogs back. We are also keen to ensure this does not happen
again.

Could I please ask that you spread the details of these two dogs as
widely as possible in your area, and please put up the poster
(depending on where you are you may need to add North Bucks after
Claydon). Any help you can give would be very much appreciated.

With Best Wishes for the New Year

Edmund Verney

Download Reward Poster (.pdf)

We Raised £900 Pounds For Chairty!

Thu, 03 Dec 2009 14:30:00 +0000

On Saturday, November 21st, The Haslemere Pet Company locked the Mayor of Haslemere Melanie Odell in a dog crate for the entire day and raised £900 for her two chosen charities:

The Male Cancer Charity: Everyman

The Haslemere Educational Museum

Huge "Thank Yous" go out to everyone who supported Melanie and her efforts on Saturday as well as all of our sponsors including:

Wagtails Canine College: For providing dog/cat behaviour advice and the"Have a Go at Rally-O" event

Debs Sutton: For providing Gundog advice

Deefer Dog Grooming: For providing the wonderful (and very popular) "Zoom Groom" sessions. Tel: 01730 815145

The Haslemere Wardrobe: Who provided the costumes for our staff

James Wellbeloved: For supplying some of the amazing raffle prizes

Dogs Today :For a Year's Subscription raffle prize

Life in Haslemere,The Haslemere Herald and Delta Radio for providing outstanding publicity and coverage of our event.

We would also like to thank the following local businesses who sponsored Melanie's time in the crate:

Lordrite Flooring, Eden Hair and Beauty, Sheen Botanical Labels, Debs Sutton, J.L.Nobbs, Life In Haslemere, Keats Real Estate Agents, Rotary Club of Haslemere, Haslemere Travel, Richmond Systems, and Keith Clayton.

But most of all, THANK YOU to everyone who put hard earned pennies into the various collection boxes on the day. Your money WILL be put to good use by these two hard working charities.

Images from the Day

Mayor Odell draws the winning tickets as Co-Owner Ray Murphy (minus his wig!) counts the donations!

L-R: Aquatics Supervisor Daryl Goddard, Saturday Shop Assistant Paula Richards, and Co-Owner Claire Goyer stay true to their word and cross dressed for the day after reaching their £100 pound "dare" target.

We're Locking The Mayor in a Dog Crate for Charity!

Thu, 12 Nov 2009 16:42:00 +0000

The Mayor of Haslemere Goes to the Dogs for Charity!

On Saturday, November 21st, The Haslemere Pet Company will be locking the Mayor of Haslemere Melanie Odell in a dog crate for the entire day in order to raise money for her two chosen charities,The Male Cancer Charity: Everyman and The Haslemere Educational Museum.

This ambitious event was thought up by shop owners Claire Goyer and Ray Murphy, who were keen to support the Mayor’s fundraising campaign.

“Melanie was one the first people to welcome us to Haslemere, and we have never forgotten her kindness and support” says Claire “This is our way of both thanking Melanie, as well as helping her raise much needed funds for two very worthwhile causes”.

Aside from locking the Mayor up, The Haslemere Pet Company have also organised an exciting day packed full of activities for both pets and people alike. You can help the Mayor reach her fundraising target by taking part in any one of these events including:

Sponsor Melanie’s Time in the Crate: £25 pounds buys you 25 minutes, and your name/business proudly displayed on the crate – SORRY- SOLD OUT!

Wall of Fame: A £10.00 donation will see your name/business listed on The Wall of Fame in the window for the day.

Sponsor the Staff to Dress in Drag: Kindly supported by The Haslemere Wardrobe, staff of The Haslemere Pet Company will be in full cross dress mode with collection tins at the ready!

Zoom Groom: Kindly supported by Deefer Dog Grooming, £10.00 buys your pooch a mini make over including nail cut, paw trim, and full brush out. Pre-Booking essential!

Meet the Experts: Kindly supported by APDT Gundog TrainerDebs Sutton and WagtailsCanine College. Come along and get the answers to all of your pet related training and behaviour questions.

Have a Go At Rally-O: A £2 donation will get you a personalised introduction to this fun new dog sport sweeping the UK (weather permitting). Kindly supported by Wagtails Canine College.

Ruff Raffle: Buy a square for a chance to win one of 10 amazing prizes kindly supported by Time Out Massage, James Wellbeloved, Burns Pet Nutrition, The Company of Animals, Meowing Heads and many more!

All this and double Haslemere Rewards Points on all purchases made on the day.

Melanie (and her crate!) will be in the main shop window at 13 High Street Haslemere, from 10AM – 4PM, and all are welcome to come and see the Mayor as she “sits” for charity.

For more information, or to book your Zoom Groom session, please contact The Haslemere Pet Company on 01428 643279 or email haslemerepets@gmail.com

Remember Remember the Fear in November?

Fri, 16 Oct 2009 17:52:00 +0100

If you are one of the many pet owners who fear for their dog or cat’s sanity come firework time, then take comfort in the fact that there are lots of different ways you can help them cope or even overcome their fear.

Simple Steps

Bring all pets indoors at night during Firework season and don't forget to lock the dog/cat flaps. This not only reduces the noise, but also makes sure that your dog or cat does not bolt from the house or garden with fright. Make sure that your dog/cat is wearing a collar with an ID tag attached just in case they do escape.
Don’t forget that Rabbits and Guinea Pigs can also suffer from exposure to loud noises. Bring hutches inside (into the garage or a large shed for example) and provide extra straw bedding for both insulation and comfort. Check all doors and wires for possible gaps and fix as required.
Some aviary birds may also be stressed by fireworks, so it would do no harm to get them gradually used to being in an indoor cage before the “silly season” really begins. Make sure that the cage is large enough, and provides appropriate perching. If you do decide to leave your Birds in the aviary, double (then triple) check the wire and doors for any small gaps or possible flight routes and shut them soundly in their inside sleeping area (make sure you provide food and water in there too!).
Turn the telly or radio on to blend in with the outside noise. Do not turn the sound way up as this can create even more problems.
Make sure your dog has a nice comfy bed, and provide him with a fresh chew or a fun new toy to divert his attention from what’s going on outside.
If your cat has a scratch post, buy some catnip spray and give the post a new lease on life. If you don’t have a post, now is the time to get one.
Hard as it may seem – DON’T MAKE A FUSS. If your dog or cat is starting to become scared please don’t give into temptation to cuddle or scope it up onto the sofa as by doing so you are only reinforcing his or her behaviour.
Never take your dog to a fireworks display or to a bonfire night party. Even if they are not normally spooked by loud noises, they may react badly being so close to the action.

Up a Notch

There are quite a few homeopathic remedies available that can help your pet cope. These range from tablets, to liquid to pheromone collars – all of which may work to a varying degree. However, please don’t leave this purchase to the last minute. Many of these remedies take time to work, and some may not work for your pet at all, so it’s better to start investigating the options now before the bangs begin.
Sound CDs are also available which help your pet slowly get used to noise over a period of time. The idea is that you pop the CD on and over a few sessions, slowly increase the volume and reward your dog for not reacting to the noise. Again, this method takes time and is not something to start a few days before bonfire night.

Call in the Experts

If your pet really suffers from loud noises to the point where the stress results in any of the following:

1. Excessive barking

2. Hiding and trembling for an extended period of time after the event

3. Fear aggression

4. Self Mutilation (licking/biting paws, pulling hair)

Then you may wish to consult a Qualified Companion Animal Behaviourist. If you live in the West Sussex/Surrey/Hampshire area, we can highly recommended Kristina Elias BSc.(Hons.) Dip Soc Psy, DAS CABC of Wagtails Canine College. Kristina can come to your home, assess your dog’s behaviour, and then create a workable action plan which will address your pet’s issues. If you live further a field the Association of Pet Behaviour Counselors also provide a list of qualified behaviorists in your area.

If Fireworks are a particular problem in your area -

Did you know that there are laws that govern when fireworks are allowed? Please check your local Police website for more details, but if you live in the Waverley County Council area, you can find that information here (scroll down a bit though!)

Best of luck – we are all in this together :-)

Claire

'Tis the Season....!

Thu, 01 Oct 2009 16:30:00 +0100

We received a phone call today from the company which supplies most of our Christmas merchandise, they are delivering all our Christmas stock next week! After the beautiful September weather we have had Christmas seemed like something happening a long way away, but we now have to get our heads around making space for the great selection of goodies that are winging their way to us!

I thought this would be a good opportunity to let you know that for space reasons some of your favourite 'regular' toys will be going into storage. However, we do clearly mark our packing boxes, and will be more then happy to go and dig out anything which you don't see displayed!

We will soon be placing our order for the high quality Otter House calendars which we get every year, so to avoid disappointment you should let us know soon if you require any specific breed or animal calendars. If you come in a week before Christmas and ask for a labrador or spaniel calendar........ well, you'll probably be out of luck!

And just a final top tip: if you see Christmas toys in October or November that you like, bear in mind that the manufacturers only make what they have pre-orders for. When it's gone it's gone and we cannot obtain any more!

Sorry if the mention of Christmas comes far too soon, just trying to keep you in the picture!

Best wishes,

Ray

Have a go at Rally-O!

Sat, 29 Aug 2009 06:59:00 +0100

Looking for something interesting to do with your dog? If you’re anything like me, you’ve looked into them all and probably thought:

A: “I’m so not co-ordinated enough” (Agility)

B: “That’s way to precise” (Obedience)

C: “I have two left feet” (Heel work to music)

D: “I don’t have a Border Collie” (All of the above!).

Mind you, I’m not knocking ANY of these sports (or Border Collies for that matter)as I firmly believe that any type of activity you do with your dog is a good thing, but sometimes it can be hard to find the RIGHT thing for you. Enter Rally-O: the perfect solution!

Rally-O (or Rally Obedience) is a new sport in the UK, but has been well established in its home country of America. It was originally devised by Charles L. "Bud" Kramer from the obedience practice of "doodling" - doing a variety of interesting warm-up and freestyle exercises. Unlike regular obedience where you have to wait for judge's orders, you instead proceed around a course of designated stations with your dog in heel position. The course consists of 10 to 20 signs that instruct the team what to do. So you may reach a sign like this:

Which means:

Dog asked to sit, handler walks around the dog while the dog remains in a sit, handler returns to start postion, team moves to next station sign.

Handlers (that’s you!) are actively encouraged to praise their dogs, and the emphasis is on demonstrating the bond between handler and dog, while exhibiting a flow around the course.

The very cool thing about Rally-O is that not only can ALL dogs can do it, no matter their breed, size or shape, but ALL handlers can do it too. Trust me on this one – if I can do it, so can you because between you and me, I’m not exactly the most natural dog handler in the world!

Have a look at some of these links and if you like what you see, why not have a go at Rally-o yourself?

Local classes are run by APDT UK trainers Tina and Ingrid Elias in Fernhurst on Thursday evenings at the Kings Arms Barn. You can contact them by telephone: 01428 648767 or email wagtailsk9@aol.com or via their website: www.wagtailscaninecollege.com

To learn more about Rally-O, have a look at the APDT UK's Rally-O website.

Hope to see you there!

Claire and Patch

STOP PRESS!!! An introductory Rally workshop is taking place in Haslemere on Sunday, May 23 2010 at The Haslemere Hall. For more information and how to book your place pleaseclick here.

Charity Event in Aid of Everyman

Wed, 29 Jul 2009 13:24:00 +0100

Forgive us for blogging about something other than pets this week, but we would like to let you all know about fellow Chamber Member Eden Hair and Beauty’s next Charity Fun day in aid of the Prostate and Testicular Cancer Charity –Everyman.

100% of the proceeds from Cut and Blow Dries, Wet Cuts, Kid’s cuts, Gents cuts and a range of beauty services performed that day will go to the charity , and every client will be given a goody bag as an extra special thank you from the Eden Team!

But aside from making you simply gorgeous, Eden will also be hosting an extravagant BBQ, a mouth watering cake sale and various other fun activities all outside the salon. So do come along, have a bit of pampering, and help raise money for a worthwhile cause.

Date: Sunday, August 9^th

Place: Eden Hair and Beauty, 23-25 Junction Place Haslemere

How to Book an appointment: Contact Eden Hair and Beauty on 01428 658548

Summer First Aid Series – Bee and Wasp Stings

Wed, 15 Jul 2009 12:55:00 +0100

Due to their inquisitive nature, both dogs and cats can be prone to bee and wasp stings. These stings can be very painful - particularly if on the end of the nose – but in most cases do not pose a serious health threat unless the pet is allergic to the insect venom.

Symptoms

A dog or cat stung by a bee, or wasp will suddenly yelp, start forward, then look wildly around for the source of his pain. He may race away, looking around and behind him. Usually the affected part will swell and itch and a welt may form at the site of the sting.

What to do

If possible, remove the sting with sterilized tweezers (either use a sterilization wash, or dunk the tweezers in a pot of boiled water). Then apply an antibacterial cream, or powder. A homemade paste of baking soda is also a good alternative if you do not have any of these to hand. Cold packs or wet cloths will help to relieve the pain and swelling which should start to subside within 24 hours. If the swelling persists, or if your pet is exhibiting other signs of distress such as shallow breathing, take him immediately to a veterinarian.

As always, if you are unsure of what to do in first aid situation, it is always best to do nothing at all until you have spoken to a veterinarian.

Blue-Green Algae and Adder Warning – Please keep a Close Eye on your Dog When out Walking.

Sun, 12 Jul 2009 14:41:00 +0100

Blue Green Algae

Please note that due to the recent spell of intense summer heat; quite a few ponds are now infected with an abundance of Blue Green Algae. Blue Green Algae can produce toxins that pose serious health risks to both people and animals when they are exposed to them in large enough quantities.

Health effects could occur when surface scums or water containing high levels of blue-green algal toxins are either swallowed, come in contact with the skin or when airborne droplets containing toxins are inhaled while swimming, or bathing.

Consuming water containing high levels of blue-green algal toxins has been associated with effects on the liver and on the nervous system in pets, livestock and people. Already there has been one very close call with a dog exposed to Blue Green Algae at Petworth Park, with several other cases being reported in the Petersfield area. At the time of wrting, no cases of Blue Green Algae have been reported in the ponds at Swan Barn, but do keep a close eye out for it (see photos), and as always, keep your dog under close control when out walking and never let them drink from stagnate ponds.

Adders

The only venomous snake in the UK, the Common European Adder (Vipera berus) is not considered to be a particularly dangerous snake to people, but Dogs are relatively frequent victims of adder bites due to their nature of exploring undergrowth and their general inquisitiveness.

Adder bites often occur when a dog is out on a walk and exploring the areas where snakes are basking in the sun. This makes them likely to disturb the snakes, either accidentally or due to their investigative actions. Dogs are frequently bitten on the face and limbs but bites can occur on any part of the body.

Most snake bites tend to occur between March and October, but due to the recent spell of hot weather, they are very active at the present time.

Please also remember, that the Adder is a protected species under The Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 (as amended), and as such it is against the law to disturb or harm the Adder in any way!

Keep 'em Cool

Fri, 05 Jun 2009 17:36:00 +0100

Hello and Happy Month of June!

This month has kicked off to amazing start weather wise with Haslemere enjoying some of the best sun anywhere in the country. According to our thermometer, it hit 28 degrees on Monday which prompted Daryl to officially start summer by setting up our shop fan!

As the forecast is for a long hot summer (fingers crossed), please make sure that you have everything you need to keep you pet cool as the temperatures soar. First on your list should be a portable pet drinker. Many a dog has suffered due to lack of clean drinking water on walks – don’t assume that you will find a puddle along the way!

We have a wide range of products, including the ones pictured, at prices that won’t break the bank. So the next time you are out and about in Haslemere make sure you come in and get one and keep it in a handy place so you don’t forget to use it.

It goes without saying that you should NEVER leave your pet in a hot car – even with the windows rolled down as you can never be sure of a steady breeze. As an “Open for Dogs” Champion, we welcome dogs on leads into our shop and you will probably find that if you ask politely other shops in Haslemere will too. So please don’t leave them in the car park.

Better still, leave them at home with a safe toy to occupy their time. In fact, my boys love an Ice Kong Lolly on a hot day, and I’m sure yours would too:

Banana-rama Ice Kong Lolly

You will need:

1 Kong Toy

1 Large Ripe Banana

Three Dog Biscuits (Arden Grange Crunchy Bites are perfect for this!)

Mash up the banana in a cereal bowl until it forms a soft paste. Crumble two of the dog biscuits and then add them to the mix giving it a few good stirs. Don’t worry if some of the biscuit pieces are a bit big - as long as the mix can fit in the Kong it’s perfect.

Fill half the Kong with the mixture, and then pop in the remaining dog biscuit whole. Continue to fill the Kong with the remaining mix until filled. Smooth the top with the back of a spoon then pop the Kong into the freezer.

A Large Adult Kong should take about 4 hours to freeze solid, but you don’t have to wait that long if your Kong is smaller. You can also take it out after about an hour if you would prefer to serve it slushy style.

One word of warning though - as the Kong melts this can get a bit messy, so make sure you have a towel handy or let your dog have his Ice Kong Lolly out in the garden!