Latest News from Blacks Vets

Treats and Hidden Threats: Protecting Your Dog from Xylitol Poisoning 

We love sharing the good times with our dogs, and sometimes that means indulging them in a special treat from time-to-time.  

However, together with the fun, it's crucial to be aware of hidden dangers that can be in seemingly harmless snacks. One of those dangers is xylitol, a sugar alcohol commonly used as a sweetener in many everyday products, which is perfectly safe for humans, but extremely toxic to dogs, even in small amounts. 

This blog post aims to provide you with the knowledge to keep your dog safe from xylitol poisoning. We'll delve into what xylitol is, why it's dangerous for dogs, the signs and symptoms of poisoning, and the crucial steps to take if you suspect your dog has ingested xylitol. 

At Blacks Vets our veterinary surgeon, Oscar Sanchez Recuero, is celebrating exam success which will further boost patient care at our vet practices in the West Midlands. 

Understanding the impact of stress on your pet’s health

We all know stress can take a toll on our health, but did you know it can also significantly impact your pet’s well-being in Birmingham as well? Just like us, pets experience stress and anxiety in response to various situations. Chronic stress, however, can have a detrimental effect on your pet’s physical and mental health.

The silver years: Special considerations for senior pet wellness

Our pets here in Birmingham bring us countless moments of joy and unconditional love throughout their lives. As they enter their senior years, however, their needs can change. They may become less energetic, require adjustments to their diet and environment, and be more susceptible to certain health concerns.

Understanding these changes and making adjustments to their care routine is essential for ensuring their continued happiness and wellbeing in their golden years. Senior pet insurance can also play a valuable role in providing financial security for their potential future veterinary needs.

Summer is a time for fun in the sun, and many of us enjoy spending time outdoors with our pets, however, on the surface of ponds and lakes can be a hidden danger: blue-green algae. While not all algae are harmful, blue-green algae (also known as cyanobacteria) can produce extremely dangerous toxins and be fatal to dogs.  

At Blacks Vets in Birmingham, we want to ensure you and your dog have a safe and enjoyable time outdoors, so, here’s what you need to know about blue-green algae and how to keep your dog safe.

Summer is in the West Midlands a time for fun in the sun, but it's important to remember that the warm weather can be just as uncomfortable for our pets. As dog owners, it's our responsibility to ensure they stay safe and stay cool in the warm weather.

Don't let the heat slow you down! With a few essential tips and tricks from Blacks Vets, you can make summer walks enjoyable experiences for you both.

Keeping your pet's claws trimmed is an essential part of their overall health and well-being. Long nails can cause discomfort, make walking difficult and even lead to accidental injuries to both you and your pet.

While clipping your pet's claws might seem daunting at first, with a little practice and the right approach, it can become a quick and stress-free experience for both of you. Here at Blacks Vets in the West Midlands we're dedicated to helping you provide the best care for your pet, therefore, this guide offers some helpful tips and tricks for clipping your pet's claws safely and effectively.

The most common allergies in cats

Cats commonly experience four types of allergies: insects (fleas), food allergies, atopic dermatitis (triggered by house dust, pollen, and moulds) and contact allergies. While they exhibit shared physical expressions and signs, each allergy type also presents unique features. If you believe your cat is showing signs of an allergy, then speaking to a vet at Blacks Vets to help you find a solution for making your cat more comfortable and improving their quality of life.

A frequent question asked is whether cats should consume canned or dry food.

Fortunately, many commercial cat foods offer an excellent nutritional source, whether in the form of dry or wet cat food. However, hinges on various factors, including weight, health conditions and budget.

Deciding whether to opt for dry, canned or a combination of both is a choice you and your vet or nurse at Blacks Vets can collaboratively make to ensure the optimal health of your cat. Here's some advice on the comparison between wet and dry cat food.

Children and pets can form wonderful bonds and many parents aspire for their children to grow up alongside furry companions. When introducing them for the first time, it's essential to establish a safe and comfortable environment where children and pets can begin to familiarise themselves with each other. Having pets is a great way of introducing responsibility in the home for your children. Establishing household guidelines for children (and sometimes adults) can aid in their learning and comprehension of what is expected in terms of caring for their new furry family member.