There have been increasing reports of myxomatosis in domestic and wild rabbits throughout the UK. There is a very efficient vaccine available against this terrible disease and it should be given at least annually or in areas of high risk, every 6 months. This disease is transmitted by biting insects such as fleas and mosquitoes, so does not require direct contact with an infected animal. The high rainfall this summer seems to have resulted in increased numbers of the vectors (biting insects) and this is reported to be the reason for the increase in prevalence of the disease.

Symptoms to watch out for are

•  Swollen eyes
• localised swellings around the head, face, ears, lips, anus and genitalia.
• Severe swellings can lead to blindness and distortion 
• Bacterial respiratory infection often complicates the disease resulting in a fatal pneumonia.

   A rabbit with Myxomatosis

There is also a vaccination available against Hemorrhagic Viral Diarrhoea - another viral disease that effects rabbits.

The next bronze (basic) course will be commencing on the 6th November 2007 for six weeks 7pm-8pm. If anyone would like an information pack please call us on 01952 201369

Yesterday, a 5 year old Labrador bitch came in to the surgery after having been vomiting for a few days at home. Examination of the mucous membranes (the gums and areas under the eyelids) revealed a yellowish tinge. This is an indication of "jaundice" and generally reflects some underlying liver related disease. Blood tests confirmed that the liver had in fact been quite badly damaged and the resultant build up of waste products in the animal's body were having a detrimental effect.

We started treatment immediately including intravenous fluids and by today she was greatly improved and has started eating well again and is no longer vomiting. Although treatment will need to continue for a week or more, she seems to be on the road to recovery.

Below is an example of a jaundice dog

Symptoms to watch out for in your own pets are

• Vomiting
• Diarrhoea
• Increase drinking and urination
• Lethargic
• Jaundice
• Reduced appetite
• Weight loss

If you are worried about any of the above it is important to take your pet to the vet as these symptoms can also be related to other medical conditions.

Misalliance is when a bitch is mated accidentally. If the owners do not want the pregnancy to continue then injections can be given to prevent this from occurring. The injections can be given up to 45 days after mating but the earlier they are given the less traumatic it is for the bitch. The course of two injections are given 24 hours apart and do sting slightly. As with any hormone treatment it can not be guaranteed 100% effective. Some bitches will come in to heat sooner than usual (usually after 3 months rather than 6 months). 

The best way to prevent this is to spay the bitch which involves removing the ovaries and uterus. This can be done anytime after the age of 6 months. 

For September we are offering FREE dental checks and goodie bags for cats and dogs.

If you would like your cat or dog's teeth checked, please give us a call on 01952 201369 to book an appointment.