Woodlands Veterinary Group

30/11/2025

As the nights draw in, a lot of us will be starting to walk our dogs in the dark. Check out our top tips below on staying safe whilst out and about with your pooch

29/11/2025

Guinea pigs are surprisingly chatty little creatures: they use over 11 distinct sounds to communicate with each other and with humans. From excited ‘wheeks’ when they hear food coming, to low rumbles that signal dominance, and even teeth chattering when they’re annoyed... these little pets have a lot to say!
Share a photo of your Guinea pig below!

28/11/2025

If pet rats could use the internet... what would they be searching for?🧐🐀
Humans can find our latest pet care and advice at: vetcollection.co.uk/health

27/11/2025

The increase in rain during autumn can cause an influx of wild mushrooms, as they thrive in damp climates. You may come across them on walks, or they may appear in your garden. It can be very difficult to determine whether a particular mushroom is safe to eat, as many can look very similar but have very different toxicity levels.
If you suspect your pet has ingested wild mushrooms, speak to a vet as soon as possible. Also, try and either take a sample or get a photo of the type of mushroom you think your pet may have ingested, as it may help the vet to identify the type of toxin and effectively treat it.
For more advice: vetcollection.co.uk/health/autumn-toxins

26/11/2025

Did you know? Antifreeze is toxic to cats. The smell and taste of antifreeze is very appealing to our feline friends, and they are likely to lap it up if they come across a spillage. So, as the weather starts to chill off, please be careful when topping up your cars with antifreeze and clear up any spillages made.
For cat owners, check out the symptoms of antifreeze poisoning to be aware of below.

25/11/2025

We’re welcoming new clients to Woodlands.
If you’ve recently moved to the area, added a new pet to the family, or are simply looking for a veterinary team you can trust - we’d love to hear from you. We offer:

✔️ Routine check-ups and vaccinations
✔️ Expert care for illness and injury
✔️ Support for every stage of your pet’s life
📞 Call us or visit https://www.vetcollection.co.uk/south-west/woodlands-veterinary-hospital/register to get started.

Already part of our practice family?
We’d love to hear what you love most about Woodlands

Visit Woodlands Veterinary Hospital in Manadon for clinical expertise that's always focused on your pet. Call us to book an appointment on 01752 700600.

24/11/2025

When it comes to treating infections, choosing the right antibiotic is essential. We want to make sure we’re using the right one - not just guessing. That’s where cytology and culture & sensitivity testing come in.
🔬 Cytology
We examine a sample under the microscope to identify the type of bacteria present. This helps us choose an antibiotic with the best chance of working quickly and effectively.
🧪 Culture & Sensitivity
The lab grows the bacteria from a sample, identifies the exact strain, and tests which antibiotics will kill it. This ensures we use the most effective treatment, reducing the risk of resistance and protecting your pet’s health.

If your vet recommends testing, it’s all about giving your pet the best and most targeted care, while protecting the future of antibiotics.

23/11/2025

When pets have diarrhoea, it’s easy to assume antibiotics are needed - but in most cases, it’s not caused by a bacterial infection.

Diet changes, stress, parasites, or underlying health conditions are often to blame.

Using antibiotics unnecessarily can disrupt your pet’s natural gut bacteria, which play a vital role in digestion and immunity. It can also contribute to antimicrobial resistance, making future infections harder to treat.

✅ Seek your vet’s advice on the best course of action

22/11/2025

Kennel cough is a common respiratory illness in dogs - but did you know it’s usually caused by a virus, not a bacterial infection?

That means antibiotics often aren’t needed and won’t help your dog recover faster.

✅ Speak to your vet about the best care
✅ Rest, hydration, and monitoring are key
✅ Avoid walks to prevent spread to other dogs

21/11/2025

Cystitis (inflammation of the bladder) is a common condition in cats. Many people are surprised to learn that it’s usually not caused by a bacterial infection.

Instead, stress is often the main trigger. That means antibiotics aren’t always the right treatment - and using them unnecessarily can contribute to antimicrobial resistance.

Find out more about the treatment of cystitis in cats here: www.vetcollection.co.uk/health/conditions/feline-lower-urinary-tract-disease-flutd/

20/11/2025

Antibiotics are designed to fight bacterial infections - they have no effect on viruses or inflammation.
Using antibiotics when they’re not needed can contribute to antimicrobial resistance, making future infections harder to treat.
Your vet will carefully assess whether antibiotics are necessary. If the illness is viral, other treatments may be more appropriate.