The weather is getting warmer and it is the perfect time for fleas to emerge. Flea eggs that have been lying dormant in your carpet over the winter are stimulated to hatch in the warmth.

Your pet may be itching around the base of the tail but even if you can't see a flea, it doesn't rule out a flea problem. Fleas commonly bite your pet and then 'jump ship'.

The best thing to do is search for flea dirt. This is simply flea faeces or digested blood. Look for small brown flecks in the coat. Transfer these flecks to a damp tissue and in a short time they will appear rust coloured- this is the digested blood.

What is the best way to prevent fleas hatching?
Use a product approved by your vet. These break the life cycle of the flea, meaning there are no fleas breeding in your home.

Flea collars, flea powders and flea shampoos are not effective and may have side effects for you and your pet. Remember: never apply a dog product to a cat or vice versa, as this can be very dangerous.

Ask us for more information.

Advantage provides the fastest relief possible from fleas. It is the only topical product to kill exclusively on contact, not on bite. Flea larvae are killed within 15 minutes, preventing flea infestations in your home and avoiding flea allergy dermatitis on your pet.  For more information go to www.advantagefleacontrol.com.au

Smudge the Siamese had always experienced a cough but it had suddenly deteriorated. A visit to her vet revealed she was wheezing and breathing more rapidly; further investigation was required.

A blood test ruled out heartworm and revealed a high number of inflammatory cells in her blood stream, meaning there was something irritating her airways. Xrays showed that her lung tissue had changed, the result of constant inflammation.

The next step was an 'endotracheal lavage'. Under an anaesthetic, a small amount of fluid is washed into the airways and the remnants from the wash are examined at a pathology lab.

Thankfully this ruled out the parasite lungworm and it helped to confirm the diagnosis of feline asthma.  

Smudge's owner is a cigarette smoker and was shocked to learn that this can cause asthma in cats. But why did Smudge's cough suddenly get worse? We discovered the likely culprit  - a new brand of very dusty kitty litter.

Smudge required medication to help settle her cough and she went back to using the normal, dust free litter. Her owner quit smoking and they are both now much happier and healthier.   

Here are some essential things to consider when caring for your furry friend:

Vaccinations
The diseases Calicivirus and Myxomatosis were introduced to Australia to help control wild rabbits. Vaccinate your rabbit against Calicivirus every 10 months. Mosquito proof the cage to help prevent Myxomatosis as there is no vaccine available in Australia.

Diet
The correct diet is very important. Rabbits require a high fibre diet to control over growth of teeth and prevent gut problems. Stick to 80% oaten hay and 20% leafy green veggies such as celery tops and flat leaf parsley. Iceberg lettuce has no nutritious value so it is best avoided. Only give a few pellets as a treat.

Fleas and Mites
Dog fleas may jump on to rabbits but these can be easily controlled - ask us for the most suitable product.
Fur mites lead to dandruff, where as ear mites cause waxy, itchy ears. Your vet should examine your bunny if he has any of these signs.

Desexing
Desexing prevents unwanted babies but it also eliminates the risk of uterine cancer in females and reduces aggression in males. Rabbits are usually desexed between 4 to 6 months.

Call us today to arrange a health check for your bunny.

Does your cat ever 'knead' you? You may notice her frequently extend her claws, digging them into your legs with an alternating action. She may also do this to her favourite blanket or while finding a nice spot to sleep on your bed.

This strange behaviour is known as 'kneading' and it starts in kittenhood when a kitten is suckling milk. It has been suggested that kittens do this to stimulate faster milk flow while some suggest it is 'nesting' behaviour. No matter what, it means your cat is feeling safe and content and may be associating you with happy memories of her time with her mother.

Click here to see an entertaining video of a cat kneading

The Cardigan Welsh Corgi originated in the hills of Western Wales. He was used as a farm dog, moving the cattle to open fields or to market. He commonly nipped at the heels of the cows in response to the farmer's whistle. 

The Cardigan has a long tail and is larger than his cousin, the Pembroke. He is very loyal and affectionate and makes a great family pet or companion for an older person.

Attributes: loving, devoted and easily trainable

Size: approx 30cm, 9 to12 kg

Lifespan: 12 to14 years

Maintenance: regular brushing to remove undercoat

Exercise:  a short daily walk

Call us and we will recommend a Welsh Cardigan Corgi breeder.