Latest News from Blacks Vets

Blacks Vets with the following practices: Dudley Veterinary Hospital, Lye Vets Stourbridge, Oldbury Vet Practice, Sedgley Vets and Quinton Vets, answer any questions you may have about how to best exercise your kitten or puppy.

Did you know that there are guidelines for minimum space requirements for housing guinea pigs? ? 

The ear mite, Otodectes Cynotis, is a mite that lives on dogs, cats, rabbits, and ferrets. It is typically found in the ear canal but can also live on the skin of your pet. Ear mites are caught through direct contact with another carrier animal. The mite may be seen as a white speck, about the size of a pinhead, moving against a dark background.

How do you feel about the relaxation of the lockdown restrictions? Relieved? Anxious? If we could ask our pets the same question, we’re fairly certain their answers would put them in one of two camps; those who are looking forward to the peace and quiet and those dreading not being with us 24/7.

With Easter just around the corner, our opening hours will vary from our usual times. Please see below our opening times over the Bank Holiday weekend.

Bacterial skin infections can have many causes, such as allergies. Regardless of the reason, skin infections require swift action by pet owners as they cause itching and pain. Some dogs are more vulnerable to develop bacterial skin infections than others.

If you're planning on getting out and about in the UK this summer, whether just for the day or for a longer period, we have some tips and advice for you and your pet.   

 With so many dog-friendly campsites, holiday cottages, hotels and caravans available, your dog will enjoy the adventure just as much as you. Dog-friendly beaches and parks are the perfect settings for your canine companion who loves to play; but you should always take care to ensure you and your dog are prepared in advance.  

Before setting out, you should ensure your dog's vaccinations are up to date and that they have had their flea, tick and worming treatment. We can advise on the best treatments to protect your dog, to keep those pesky minibeasts at bay. Remember if your pet is signed up to our Pet Health for Life Plan their flea, tick and worming treatment is included.  

ENSURE YOUR DOG IS MICROCHIPPED!  

A new or unusual environment could confuse your dog and if the worst happens and you get separated, it’s important that you can be reunited quickly and easily. All dogs must be microchipped by law, and you could be fined up to £500 if they are not. Before leaving, please take 5 minutes to check that your contact details stored on the chip are up to date and a mobile number is available, particularly if you are not at home, so that you can be contacted wherever you are.   

Read more here >> 

TRAVELLING BY CAR   

Planning your journey before your departure is important to ensure you know where you can stop to allow your dog to stretch their legs, get some fresh air and have some fresh clean water.   

It’s also very important to ensure your dog is correctly restrained if you’re taking them out on the road – for both their safety and yours. A travel cage, harness or dog guard can keep your dog secure for travel; make sure it’s correctly fitted and from a recommended manufacturer.  

Regulate the temperature in the vehicle and ensure your dog isn’t in direct sunlight whilst you’re moving or stationary, as overheating can lead to heat stroke.

If your dog has not been on many car journeys, or is not used to travelling in the car, we would recommend taking them on some shorter journeys beforehand in preparation.  

Further details here >>  

VISITING THE BEACH  

As soon as the sun comes out, many of us will head to the beach. Do check in advance that dogs are allowed, as some have a dog-free policy in place at certain times in the year.  

It is also important to be aware of the potential dangers the environment can bring. Eating sand and drinking seawater can be dangerous to your dog, so do be aware of what they’re up to whilst you’re enjoying yourselves.   

Find out more here >>  

PROTECT YOUR PET FROM THE SUN 

Like humans, dogs can be affected by high temperatures. Sunburn, footpad burns, dehydration and heatstroke can all occur, causing discomfort and potential fatalities. If you’re feeling the effects of a hot summer’s day, your dog will be too. Ensure you have a supply of cool, fresh water and stay out of direct sunlight where possible. To protect your pet, we would advise keeping your pet indoors between 10am and 3pm when the sun is at its strongest.

Click here for more information >>>

Click here to have a read through our list of our top 10 summer hazards, for some other things to consider to keep your pet safe.

As always, if you need any help or advice, please get in touch with us.  

Here’s to a happy and healthy summer for you and your dog! 

As we get closer to COVID-19 related restrictions being slowly relaxed you’ll be looking forward to getting out and about more with your new puppy. Or, perhaps you’re thinking of buying a new puppy as life returns back to some kind of normal? Whatever your circumstances, we’ve put together a few tips for all new puppy parents.

With restrictions on holidays abroad, and ongoing updates to the quarantine list, many people are opting for a ‘staycation’ in the UK this year. If your summer plans involve a trip to one of our beautiful beaches and your dog is lucky enough to be joining you, here are some things to be mindful of:

Parasite prevention is an integral part of taking good care of your cat or dog. Parasites also pose a threat to human health. Some pet parasites cause zoonotic infections, which means they can be transferred from pets to people.