Southdale Veterinary Services

21/08/2024

Non-spayed female dogs typically go into "heat" or estrus twice a year, starting around 6 - 12 months of age. Smaller breeds may begin as early as 5 months, while larger breeds may start around 14 months.

Each cycle lasts an average of 12 - 21 days, but can range from a few days to four weeks. Bleeding occurs before the female is receptive to males, who will be attracted during the proestrus stage.

Dogs can get pregnant during their first heat cycle, but it is not advisable due to the increased risk of complications. For pet dogs, spaying before the first heat is recommended to prevent accidental pregnancies and reduce the risk of reproductive diseases.

02/08/2024

Cats sniff everything that they come into contact with. The stems and leaves of the catnip plant contain a chemical compound known as nepetalactone. When sniffed, this chemical acts as a stimulant and produces a reaction similar to the ‘high’ experienced by humans who use hallucinogens such as L*D. The way in which a cat reacts to catnip will largely depend on whether she has simply sniffed it, or if she has eaten it. Sniffing catnip produces a stimulant reaction, and your furbaby may react by exhibiting a number of strange, hyperactive behaviours including rolling around, flipping over, chasing her tail, and running around and climbing with no purpose. She may seem simply crazy! The effects of catnip usually lasts between 10 and 15 minutes before wearing off. When catnip is eaten rather than sniffed, the effect is somewhat different. Instead, it actually acts like a sedative, and “mellows out” the feline that consumes it. This can be especially useful for long car rides.

22/07/2024

❤

26/06/2024

Look. When it come to eyes - small is big, and timing is crucial. This image shows two tumors (Meibomian gland adenomas and papillomas are the most common in dogs).

These can grow very quickly and the surgical removal is far more difficult when they are bigger. So, the message is this,... have a look, a _careful_ look since we get used to seeing the tumour and it becomes normalized in our minds; and if spotted then immediately call and schedule an appointment with the vet.

Will save you and your furry loyal friend discomfort.

If this did help you please post a comment.

26/06/2024

The funniest cat :-)

14/06/2024

11/06/2024

As the temperature drops in some parts of Johannesburg, please make sure your pets stay warm:
 If possible bring your pet inside.
 If your pet cannot be brought inside make sure they always have somewhere warm and dry to go. Move their shelter out of the wind and place extra blankets inside.
 All small pets, like hamsters, mice and birds should be kept out of drafts and have extra bedding in their cage and are covered at night.
 Always keep a close eye on pets when they spend time outside in the very cold weather. Cats and small dogs often shelter under cars in the cold and windy weather. Always check before you start your car and drive away.
 It is dangerous to use electric blankets, heat lamps etc. in your pets’ shelter.
 We all know the dangers of leaving a pet in a hot car, the same applies to a cold car, think how cold your car is when you first get into it!
 Always make sure that they have fresh food and water daily. Check that water and food has not frozen overnight.
Should you need to find out more on how to look after your pet during the winter, please contact AACL Johannesburg on 011 435 0672

11/06/2024

Rabies is a deadly disease. It can be transmitted to people by an infected animal’s bite, scratch, or lick.

If a person is bitten, scratched or licked by an animal suspected to have rabies (an animal that is unvaccinated, showing odd behaviour or neurological symptoms), the person needs to wash the wound thoroughly with soap and running water and seek medical attention immediately.

Post-exposure prophylaxis treatment will involve a series of rabies vaccinations and immunoglobulin being injected into the wound (If the skin has been broken).

Rabies affects the brain and is 99,9% fatal once a person or animal shows clinical signs.

02/06/2024

02/06/2024

Our pets normally do not cry out when they are in pain and subtle signs can indicate that they might be suffering from osteoarthritis.

Look out for these signs - your dog could be suffering from osteoarthritis
• Stiff or struggle to get up after laying down
• Unable to climb stairs
• They no longer want to go for walks or play or are only able to do so for short periods
• Changes in behaviour, can become aggressive towards your other pets and hiding away
• They can become lame and start to lose muscle mass in the affected limb

For more information visit : https://bit.ly/glucocarepremium

15/04/2024

02/04/2024

Pet parent life.

16/02/2024

Just so we’re clear… 🌎

22/11/2023

Be responsible and protect your family and friends from rabies by taking your dog or cat to the vet for a vaccine

Did you know that rabies occurs in every South African province? The three highest-risk provinces for dog rabies include KwaZulu-Natal, Eastern Cape and Limpopo.

It is crucial that every pet owner has their dogs and cats vaccinated to protect both humans and animals against rabies.

The first rabies vaccine is given at 12 weeks (Three months) of age, followed by a booster vaccination between one and 12 months later. Thereafter, a booster is required every three years. In high-risk areas, annual vaccination is strongly advised!

Enquire with your local state veterinarian, animal health technician, private veterinarian, or welfare organisation.

29/10/2023

🤣🤣🧡

29/10/2023

A Hero 💚

25/10/2023

So Great Dog comic

25/10/2023

Good advice - and need to prepare a few days ahead of the main events!

What could be spookier than a scary Halloween movie during a thunderstorm 💀
During the stormy season a lot of our furry friends become stressed due to the thunder and rain ⛈️
Here are some tips to help ease the anxiety:

🌩️For dogs there are some calming remedies that we offer over the counter at our Chudleigh’s Pet Shop that are best given before you believe the storm may start.
🌩️For cats there is the Feliway diffuser which emits calming pheromones that you can place in a spare room for them.
🌩️Have a cosy, well lit place they can hide to feel safe/comforted. That may be right by your side or in a room alone. Let them decide!
🌩️Closing any curtains and turning on the lights will stop them from seeing the lightning.
🌩️Add some calming music or TV show in the background to distract them from the noise of the storm.
🌩️If the anxiety is too much for them and the OTC meds don’t touch sides, there are some medications we can prescribe for these stressful events (these do require a consultation first)
🌩️Have fresh water available for them

Your pets will thank you for keeping them safe and comfortable during these scary storms ⛈️

21/10/2023

Consider these important reasons to sterilise your male dog!

18/10/2023

How do I know if my pet’s weight is healthy?

First and foremost, have an honest conversation with your veterinarian about your pet’s weight. Your veterinarian can check your pet’s weight and overall health, and make recommendations specially tailored to your pet’s needs. Learn more about your pet's healthy weight here: https://bit.ly/39G82HB

16/10/2023

Here are some additional reasons why sterilisation can benefit your beloved companion

16/10/2023

🚨 Urgent Action Needed!

The South African poultry industry is facing an unprecedented crisis with the rapid spread of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI). Despite strict biosecurity measures, HPAI is relentless, putting our poultry farms and jobs at risk.

The South African Veterinary Association (SAVA) urgently calls on the government to allow the immediate importation of HPAI vaccines, safeguard both human and animal health, and secure the survival of the South African poultry sector.

Read more about this:

https://www.bizcommunity.com/Article/196/700/242332.html

16/10/2023

Fake Vets? While there has been a lot of news about a fake doctor on Facebook we need to be aware of similar situations elsewhere.

For example where it relates to supposed vets - where owners are led to believe, that the "vaccination" of animals at pet shops is equivalent to a veterinary clinical exam and vaccination. Remember a vet has a degree, has studied for six years and is trained and licensed by law and the SAVC to treat animals. A vet is your best bet.

Sadly the vaccine in these cases seems to be obtained by subterfuge - but what is clear on the vaccine box - is the wording:

"This vaccine may only be used by persons authorized in terms of the veterinary and Para-veterinary Professions Act, 1982 (Act19/1982)" Some other points to consider:

1. For a vaccination to be effective the animal must be healthy
which means a qualified person must give the animal a physical
examination to exclude any disease the animal may be incubating
at the time, as well as screen for genetic defects.

2. Only a qualified veterinarian may sign a vaccine record card
so the the pet may be housed at a kennel or cattery, or moved through endemic rabies areas.

3. There is - albeit small - a possibility of an adverse
reaction to a vaccine and if the animal has been inoculated by
anyone other than a qualified veterinarian there will be no
recourse to the vaccine manufacturer in the event of a
veterinary bill to treat the reaction or even to compensate the
owner in the event that the animal dies.

4. All vaccines have at least ten warnings and precautions that
have to be taken into consideration and only a qualified
veterinarian will be able to exclude these when evaluating a pet
for vaccination.

5. Other points that too consider would include the integrity of
the cold chain, correct storage and transportation of the
vaccine, correct injection procedure and site.

I would suggest that the first examination of your pet should not be done by the salesman who sold you the pet since it is unlikely that they would be objective, and your new family member misses out on a lot of important information normally supplied during this veterinary visit. For your pets sake.

28/09/2023

Click to get quote

28/09/2023

Sign the petition: tell the SA govt to act now

12/09/2023

🦏✈️ SAVA Soars High in the Skies!

We're thrilled to share that SAVA's groundbreaking work with Rhino Repro is taking flight in the prestigious Skyways magazine, the premier inflight magazine for Airlink.

Our commitment to wildlife conservation and the preservation of these majestic creatures is being recognised far and wide. Thank you, Skyways magazine, for spotlighting our efforts! 🙌

Together, we can protect our planet's incredible biodiversity. 🌍

The PR campaign is proudly sponsored by V-Tech Pharmacies SA

29/05/2023

Pet Nutrition

We all know that healthy nutrition is a cornerstone of your pet’s health. But not all pets have the same nutritional requirements and those requirements can change over time. At all times it is best to feed your pet the highest quality diet you can afford.

Dr Kathryn Knipe at Birnam Veterinary Clinic highlights the importance of ensuring your pet is eating the correct food:

Feeding for the correct species
It is extremely unhealthy to feed dogs cat food and vice versa. Doing this can result in serious nutritional deficiencies and excesses which are harmful to your pet. Cats must eat only cat food and dogs must eat only dog food!

Life stage feeding
The nutritional needs of our pets change during their lifetime. Feeding a diet designed for their age group is vital in maintaining good health. Puppies and kittens have very specific nutritional requirements. Feeding them appropriately will help them grow up strong and healthy while avoiding diseases caused by nutritional deficiencies. Once your pet has grown into an adult, you should change them on to an adult diet. Continuing to use foods made for immature animals can result in excessive weight gain which is detrimental to your pet’s health.

Breed specific nutrition
Various foods have been designed to address particular health problems that occur in certain breeds of cats and dogs. This can include special kibble shapes and sizes for certain breeds, the addition of ingredients that help pass hairballs in long-haired cats, and ingredients to support joint health in animals prone to arthritis.

Feeding according your pet’s weight and activity level
Obesity is one of the most common health problems that veterinarians see in pets worldwide. If your pet is becoming a little chubby, speak to your veterinarian about which food they would recommend keeping your pet at their optimum weight. Once you have selected the correct diet for their needs, be sure to feed it strictly according to the package instructions. Adjust their daily food allowance according to other treats given, and try to keep these to a minimum. And don’t forget to exercise your furry family members!

So how do I know if my pet is eating the correct food?
Staff at veterinary practices and veterinary shops are well-trained to provide you with information regarding the best food to feed your healthy pet. You can also get a recommendation from your veterinarian. If your pet is unwell, be sure to see your vet with your pet so that they can diagnose your pet’s illness correctly and recommend the specific diet that is necessary.

The PR campaign is proudly sponsored by V-Tech Pharmacies SA

29/05/2023

Depression in pets

There is a growing awareness of mental health among humans, and we are beginning to understand more and more that our mental health impacts our physical health and vice versa. It’s important to note that our furry and feathered companions can struggle with many of the same mental health challenges as we do.

Diagnosing depression in pets is extremely challenging because they cannot simply tell us how they are feeling. What makes diagnosis even more difficult is that many other illnesses (including life-threatening illnesses) and pain can cause the same symptoms. Thus, it is essential that any pet showing a behavioural change, change in appetite, or energy levels be seen by a veterinarian as soon as possible.

Dr Ingrid de Wet, principal veterinarian at EberVet Pet Clinic in Somerset West highlights the signs and symptoms to look out for in your pet:

• Symptoms of depression in dogs and cats may include a change in behaviour and a lack of interest in activities that they previously enjoyed.
• They may show a change in body language and a loss of appetite.
• Pets will also sleep more or sleep less and show repetitive behaviours like pacing.
• Animals that have experienced severe neglect or cruelty are also more likely to become depressed. If your pet has lost a companion this may also trigger them into a state of depression.
• Often depression follows chronic anxiety, so if your pet is very nervous or struggles with separation this may lead to depression. This is because the anxiety becomes too much to deal with and the pet simply shuts down.

Treating depression will always involve behaviour modification to some extent and this includes providing adequate social interaction with the pet, providing an outlet for their normal behaviours, providing regular exercise, showering them with love and affection and ensuring that their husbandry is appropriate for their breed. And in some cases, they will need medication and more intense behaviour modification with the help of a behaviourist.

If you suspect your pet is suffering from depression, get to them to a vet. This is the first step in ensuring that they are on the path to recovery.

The PR campaign is proudly sponsored by V-Tech Pharmacies SA