Gill's Pet Sitting Services UK

08/08/2023

😻 Happy international cat day 😻
Enjoy snuggles, head bops, tail tickles and chirps XX

31/07/2023

31/07/2023

Sadly, I've seen numerous cats in the OOH ECC clinic suffering, sheet ingesting this. It's really nasty and unless caught early, the outcome is usually fatal.

⭐Next up on our A-Z pet poisoning campaign is the letter E⭐

Ethylene Glycol

Ethylene Glycol (also known as ethanediol) is a compound found most commonly in antifreeze, coolants, screen-wash, certain de-icers and some printer cartridges. Note that just because a product contains ‘antifreeze’ does not mean it contains ethylene glycol.

Exposure is a hazard mainly via ingestion, dermal toxicity is low – however does increase the risk of secondary exposure via self-grooming.

The initial signs from ethylene glycol can be vague and non-specific and resemble drunkenness and is followed by kidney failure. Most cases of ethylene glycol poisoning occur in the winder months. Cats are at particular risk of ethylene glycol poisoning as the exposure may not be witnessed, initial signs may be missed and even a very small volume may cause fatal poisoning.

Ethanol is the antidote to ethylene glycol poisoning but it needs to be started as soon as possible after ingestion.
Treatment is recommended for any amount of ethylene glycol in cats. If you suspect your pet has been exposed to ethylene glycol it is recommended that you contact your vet immediately.

☎️ Pet owners can call Animal PoisonLine on 01202 509 000
🤳 Veterinary professionals can call VPIS on 0207 305 5055

29/07/2023

This is a very common, household item. Please don't leave it out after use! As always, keep medicines out of reach of children and pets.

⭐A-Z of pet poisoning - D⭐

Diclofenac is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) commonly used for the management of pain.

Diclofenac is found in many different forms - the most common being gel but tablets and suppositories are also commonly prescribed.

If ingested, diclofenac can cause gastrointestinal signs such as vomiting and diarrhoea (which may be bloody), lethargy and inappetence. If an animal has been exposed to a large volume, there is a risk of kidney impairment, although this is uncommon.

Even a very small amount of diclofenac could be enough to cause complications and early treatment is essential to reduce the risk of secondary complications.

If your pet has ingested diclofenac, it is important that you seek advice as soon as possible.

☎️ Pet owners can call Animal PoisonLine on 01202 509 000
🤳 Veterinary professionals can call VPIS on 0207 305 5055

29/07/2023

Chocolate - is the obvious choice for the letter C!

⭐A-Z of pet poisoning - C⭐

Next up, we have (you guessed it..) chocolate!

The primary toxic components in chocolate are theobromine and caffeine. The amount of theobromine and caffeine in products will vary dependent on the type of chocolate and the manufacturer. Common signs associated with large consumption of chocolate in animals include:
🍫 Vomiting (in animals that can)
🍫 Diarrhoea
🍫 Hyperactivity and restlessness
🍫 Increased thirst
🍫 Increased heart rate
🍫 Tremors

Whilst many of us are aware of the danger that chocolate poses to dogs, other species are similarly as affected.

If your pet ingests chocolate, it is very important that you seek advice to check the dose and see whether treatment is necessary.

☎️ Pet owners can call Animal PoisonLine on 01202 509 000
🤳 Veterinary professionals can call VPIS on 0207 305 5055

29/07/2023

VPIS line is available for not only the veterinary professionals but owners also!

⭐A-Z of pet poisoning - Letter B⭐

Next up this week, we have baclofen!

Baclofen is a skeletal muscle relaxant prescribed for the management of chronic muscle spasms.

Baclofen can cause clinical signs within 1-2 hours of exposure, and potential signs include wobbliness, vocalisation, drooling, vomiting and drowsiness. With severe cases, there is a risk of a reduced heart rate, respiratory arrest (due to paralysis of the respiratory muscles) and seizures.

Animals can develop signs at very low doses, and therefore it is recommended that advice is sought after any potential ingestion so that treatment can be initiated as soon as possible if it is required.

☎️ Pet owners can call Animal PoisonLine on 01202 509 000
🤳 Veterinary professionals can call VPIS on 0207 305 5055

29/07/2023

Anyone interested in this webinar?

Preparing for your dog’s cruciate surgery can feel quite daunting as there is a lot to arrange and think about - from readying your home, to following the surgeon’s post-op protocol.

Enrol in our new FREE course with the wonderful Canadian physiotherapist, Carrie Smith, and set your dog up for a successful recovery by being prepared for what’s to come!

Head to the link for more info and to enrol:
https://www.cameducation.co.uk/course/cruciate-surgery-prep

29/07/2023

22/07/2023

The VPIS telephone number is at the bottom of the post and is available for pet owners and veterinary professionals alike.
If you are concerned about a potential ingestion you can call them direct.
It's always best to seek professional advice for these matters.

⭐A-Z of pet poisoning - Letter A⭐

Next up this week, we have alphachloralose.

Alphachloralose is a rodenticide licensed in the UK for the control of house mice. When ingested, it can cause neurological signs such as wobbliness, tremors, visual impairment and drowsiness. With severe cases, ingestion can lead to coma and seizures. Signs can be very quick in onset (sometimes within 15 minutes of ingestion) and can last for a couple of days, even with treatment.

There is a risk of secondary poisoning (ingestion of a dead or dying rodent or bird) with alphachloralose.

If you suspect that your pet has come into contact with alphachloralose, we recommend that you seek advice as soon as possible.

☎️ Pet owners can call Animal PoisonLine on 01202 509 000
🤳 Veterinary professionals can call VPIS on 0207 305 5055

22/07/2023

⭐First up on our A-Z pet poisoning campaign is the letter A⭐

Antibiotics - what are they used for and what is the risk?

We are all familiar with these drugs which are used to treat infections, and they are usually found as tablets or as an ingredient in a cream which your doctor prescribes.
They are of low acute toxicity and are well tolerated. In cats and dogs, an overdose of antibiotics, even a large overdose, will cause no more than some mild gastrointestinal signs such as vomiting and diarrhoea, and it would not be necessary to go to your vet for treatment.

Pets such as rabbits, guinea pigs, gerbils, hamsters, and other rodents, however, are much more sensitive to antibiotics, as these drugs alter the normal “good bacteria” in the animals’ guts and cause an overgrowth of “bad bacteria” which can have very serious consequences.

If you suspect your rabbit or rodent has been exposed to a dropped tablet, contact your vet immediately, as treatment will probably be required.

By contrast, antiseptic creams contain no antibiotic component; they may case some vomiting or some drooling, as they do not taste particularly nice, but would not be a concern unless your pet has consumed many tubes.

☎️ Pet owners can call Animal PoisonLine on 01202 509 000
🤳 Veterinary professionals can call VPIS on 0207 305 5055

22/07/2023

Giant Hogweed may look harmless, but it can cause serious burns, blisters and long-term skin damage to both pets and humans ⚠️

The stems and leaves of the plant contain dangerous toxins, putting pets at risk even just by brushing against it ☣️ The toxin is further concentrated in the sap released when the plant is damaged or broken, increasing the risk. Although pets may have some protection from their fur, hairless or thin-furred areas (such as the ears, mouth and belly) can be badly affected 😟

Giant Hogweed can be found throughout the UK. Particularly common along river banks, it flowers in June and July and looks like a huge cow parsley plant. Dogs can come across it while exploring undergrowth, so we’re urging pet owners to keep a close eye out when walking their dogs ❗

If your pet comes across it, be sure to wash their coat well with soap and water, whilst protecting yourself using gloves. And if you’re worried, contact your Vet immediately 🐾🩺

13/02/2023

Dog trolleys are becoming more popular!!
As dogs are living longer, some with degenerative conditions such as osteoarthritis, these provide an excellent way of ensuring your dog leads an inclusive and exciting life. The trolleys afford your beloved pooch the cognitive simulation they require, just enables you to travel further than "the end of the road" before heading back.

Your dog can still lead a fulfilling life, even if they cant walk as far as they used to.

Your dog uses their nose above all other senses, so using a dog trolley gives them the freedom to get out and experience different environments, and to interact with the world in a way they will still enjoy. It also gives them a great way to rest as and when they need to.

25/01/2023

Please read and share amongst your doggy friends. I've always believed that ALL dogs should be muzzle trained. It can be done in an educational way and made enjoyable for the pooches and the owners. If you need any advice please don't hesitate to to get in touch. 💗

Muzzles Are NOT The Devil!

The world has officially gone crazy. I saw a post earlier from someone who ‘didn’t agree with muzzles because they’re cruel’ and it’s absolute insanity.

You’re potentially walking around with a 40kg dog with 42 massive teeth in its head. Let’s say he breaks his leg and naturally he’s not gonna understand why the vet is hurting him, he’s gonna be stressed, in pain, scared… now what? We wait for him to stop mauling the vet and click and reward? Nonsense.

Every single dog walking this planet should be conditioned to a muzzle. Are they all likely to need one? Not at all. But WHAT IF they do. Now you’ve got an already scared dog, who’s gonna be further stressed because you rammed a muzzle on his face.

Aside from this STOP judging dogs you see with muzzles on. There’s a million different reasons a dog is wearing a muzzle. Maybe he chews his paws, maybe he eats stuff off the floor, maybe he’s scared and unpredictable.

Condition the muzzle. We’ve been training with it today for no reason whatsoever. Don’t need it, no vet visit planned but my dogs see the muzzle as a positive thing. He comes and shoves his face in it because it brings reward.

Muzzles are very very useful, and if you think they’re cruel, you’ve not yet met the dogs they save. Open your mind.

23/01/2023

Being a vet is not always fun. This problem is bigger than most people realise

23/01/2023

Hey everyone. This is my dog Max. He is a 9yr old pointer cross. He is a loyal, loving and very friendly boy. He is a sofa hound who loves snoozing in front of the fire. He is whistle trained and walks perfectly on a slip lead. However, he is far from perfect. He can be grumpy "on a lead" if approached and has a habit of running away if he sees a squirrel!
No one is perfect, we all have bad days but keep working with you dog! Exercise is the BEST way to de-stress and to get the most out of your pooch. Training is life-long and I'm now working everyday to make him feel more comfortable but I implore that if you see a dog on a lead, or that someone is trying to recall their dog please do the same. Your dog MAY be friendly but it stresses mine (and others) out no end and un-does all the hard work making him feel relaxed by "rushing him" while he feels uncomfortable. Thank you for reading this.

23/01/2023

Hey followers! Please share far and wide! Free download here......❤️

We are excited to tell you about our new free download!

We have been asked to write something on puppy caregiving for a while now, so we have been working hard behind the scenes to make it happen. And its' finally here!!

This one is more about prevention rather than treatment, and when it comes to interventions; earlier = better.

We all want our furry friends to live long and happy lives, and reducing the risks and identifying OA concerns from an early age is the best way to make that happen.

This guide is designed for everyone thinking about getting (or have already got) a new puppy - but also for breeders, puppy classes, vet practices, etc. We would love this guide to be included in puppy packs from vets and breeders!

Take a look and download for free here:https://caninearthritis.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/CAM-Puppy-Guidance-Caregiver-Handout.pdf

09/01/2023

⚠️Naproxen⚠️

In 2022, we took over 150 calls relating to pets that had ingested Naproxen. Naproxen is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) that is rapidly absorbed. Clinical signs can take up to 12-24 hours to develop and sometimes take up to 7-14 days to resolve with treatment.

Clinical signs may include:
- Vomiting (which may be haemorrhagic)
- Diarrhoea (which may be haemorrhagic)
- Lethargy and weakness
- Abdominal discomfort
- Gastrointestinal ulceration
- Anaemia
- Kidney impairment

If your pet has ingested naproxen, advice should be sought as soon as possible to reduce the risk of serious harm to your pet.

📞Pet owners can call Animal PoisonLine on 01202 509000
📞Veterinary professionals can call VPIS on 0207 305 5055

21/12/2022

This is an interesting read.... For all those wanting to know more about chocolate toxicity

Chocolate and pets🍫🐾

Christmas is associated with an excess of food and top of the list is chocolate! This of course means an increase in cases of accidental ingestion in pets, particularly dogs. We see a huge increase in call numbers relating to chocolate at this time of year – around 20% of all chocolate cases reported to us occur in December🎄

Chocolate contains two related chemicals that can be toxic to pets - theobromine and caffeine. The amount of caffeine and theobromine in products will vary due to natural differences in cocoa beans and the formulation of the products. Common signs associated with large consumption of chocolate in animals include vomiting (in animals that can), diarrhoea, hyperactivity and restlessness, increased thirst, increased heart rate and tremors.

Although chocolate poisoning is very common in pets (especially dogs!) and frequently makes them ill, fatal cases are rare.

If your pet has ingested chocolate and you need advice, please contact Animal PoisonLine on 01202 509000☎️

20/12/2022

Enrichment for cats is SO important, especially if they're staying inside a bit more over the winter. Your don't need to purchase really expensive items either. This time of year in sure most of us have a few spare rolls of cardboard tubes or some boxes? And if you know cats, you know the love of a box! 😹 💗

🎁 Looking for a Christmas gift for your cat? 🐈 Try making one at home! 🏠👇

📦 Snuffle boxes ➡️ Place scrunched up paper 📄 inside a shoe box and hide treats or kibble inside for them to find

🧩️ Puzzle feeders ➡️ Place treats in left-over toilet roll tubes 🧻️ for cats to enjoy rolling them around. Folding the ends of the tubes will make it a bit trickier. 🔺 They can be glued together into a pyramid structure so the cat has to use their paws to manipulate the treats 🐾

📦 Boxes ️➡️ ️ Place them on their side and cut ✂️ holes in the sides for them to climb through and pop their head out of

🧦 Socks ➡️ Make kick toys by filling them with old scraps of clothes and a sprinkle of catnip and sewing them closed 🪡

🎣 Wand toys ➡️ Get a piece of dowel and drill a small hole in the end. Thread a piece of string through and tie, glue or sew strips of fabric, feathers or pom poms on the end

More top tips on playing with your cat ➡️ https://icatcare.org/advice/playing-with-your-cat/

Have you crafted a home-made toy for your cat ❓ We would love to see them in the comments below 💬👇

19/12/2022

After the recent snow and sub-zero temperatures we must not only keep ourselves warm but also our pets.... Any help or advice needed please do not hesitate to get in touch 💗🐾

Are our pets protected from the cold? 🤔❄️

Many people think that our pets are protected from the cold by all their fur, but this isn’t actually true. 🧊

Like us humans, our pets can also develop a dangerous and potentially deadly condition called hypothermia. Any pet can become seriously ill if the temperature of their body drops too low, and acting quickly and doing the right thing could save your pet’s life. If you suspect your pet may have hypothermia, it’s important to call your vet straight away and follow their advice. 👩‍⚕️⚠️

How to prevent hypothermia and what to do if your pet gets too cold; 👉 http://pdsa.me/3Ksd

13/12/2022

I absolutely love this poster!

And I see a wide variety of these in my day to day working life. Dogs have a various ways of showing their emotional state and whilst most owners are quite good at knowing their own pet they are not so good at reading others, like the dog sitting next to them in the waiting room, who doesn't want to be petted or the cat in the basket who hates having your dog press it's face up against the bars....

By understanding a little more about dogs and their body language we can find out our pets likes and dislikes and learn to help them overcome or avoid the triggers. This can help you establish a health and happy relationship with your dog and can prevent injury to both you and your dog.

13/12/2022

👋🏻 Hey everyone! 👋🏻

I love Christmas but as you can imagine, my line of work I do see many accidents and injuries over the festive period to our beloved pets. 🍫🎂🎄⛄

(Mainly our pooches ingesting things they shouldn't) so while I wish you all the best over Christmas please just remember to take extra care with the chocolate and mince pies etc and stow them away out of reach (or sniff!!) 🍫
The decorative chocolates, hanging on the tree are not a good idea with most dogs.

Also, I know we love to get together, drink and be merry 🥂 but for some of our pets the extra noise and strange people can just be too much.

Please try and provide a small, quiet, cozy area where they can relax ⛺ Maybe a plug in diffuser (Feliway for cats or Adaptil for dogs) can help relieve some anxiety? There are also some non-prescription capsules available which I'm sure your vets will only be too happy to speak to you about. Alternatively, send me a DM and I'll try to help as much as I can.

Most importantly I'd like to wish you all a Merry Christmas & happy new year 💕

08/12/2022

Sharing this from another page.

Please make sure that no pet can gain access to any Christmas decorations (including snow globes) they can be very dangerous!

Contents are fatal.

03/12/2022

And for the pooches on the move in the cold!

Take care in the cold weather and keep your dog safe with our brrr-illiant advice. ❄️

More info 👉 https://bit.ly/3EM0pzx

Image description: This graphic lists ways to keep your dog safe this winter. Ensure your dog is visible in the dark with a flashing collar or high-vis jacket. Make sure it's safe before you let your dog off lead. Make sure your dog is microchipped and has up to date details. Keep anti-freeze out of reach and mop up any spillages. Provide indoor activities if it's not possible to go out safely. Wipe your dogs paws, legs and tummy after a walk.

03/12/2022

For my outdoor furry friends.

Warning: frosty feet ahead. ❄️⚠️

As nice as it is to look out onto a crisp frosty morning, winter unfortunately comes with a fair few dangers for our furry friends! 😿

As we head towards the winter months, help your pets stay safe and warm with this advice from our vets! 🌡️

29/11/2022

😻❤️😻

This would explain a lot 😹

28/11/2022

Like us, our pets might need a little extra TLC over the winter months! ❤️ Here are some common winter hazards to look out for to keep your pet happy and safe:

⛈️ Storms and floods. Strong winds, loud noises, and unexpected flashes of light can scare any pet, so it's important to know how to keep your furry friend safe and happy should the weather take a turn.
❄️ Antifreeze and de-icer. Both are incredibly toxic for animals and can kill them. Keep antifreeze out of the reach of pets and clean up any spills thoroughly.
🥀 Poisonous plants. Festive favourites like holly, ivy and poinsettia are all toxic to pets if they eat them. Keep them out of your pet's reach, or use artificial plants to decorate your home.
🥶 Snowy paws. Snow can build up on a pet's paws and cause discomfort, so prepare paws by keeping hair between pads trimmed so there's less hair for the snow to gather on.
🚘 Sheltering cars. Cats often shelter under cars or will even climb inside the bonnet beside a warm engine. Always check your vehicle for visitors or knock on the bonnet before you start it.
🧂 Salt and grit. Wash your pet's paws if they come into contact with salt and grit, as it can be irritating. Applying a thin layer of paw butter to your dog's pads could also help protect them from cracking.

See the complete guide to taking care of your pet this winter: http://pdsa.me/tRkT