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One of Surrey’s top animal hospitals has just appointed a new Clinical Director to lead its expert team.

The ear mite, Otodectes Cynotis, is a mite that lives on dogs, cats, rabbits, and ferrets. It is typically found in the ear canal but can also live on the skin of your pet. Ear mites are caught through direct contact with another carrier animal. The mite may be seen as a white speck, about the size of a pinhead, moving against a dark background.

How do you feel about the relaxation of the lockdown restrictions? Relieved? Anxious? If we could ask our pets the same question, we’re fairly certain their answers would put them in one of two camps; those who are looking forward to the peace and quiet and those dreading not being with us 24/7.

Bacterial skin infections can have many causes, such as allergies. Regardless of the reason, skin infections require swift action by pet owners as they cause itching and pain. Some dogs are more vulnerable to develop bacterial skin infections than others.   It’s important to check common areas like the paws, groins and armpits. Skinfolds are particularly prone to skin infections, and dogs with heavy pendulous ears are very susceptible to infections. These infections happen because long, heavy ears can promote bacterial growth. However, any dog can develop a skin infection, so you should be on the lookout for warning signs. Symptoms of skin infections include redness, itching, hair loss, bumps, pustules, and spots. Your vet may be able to diagnose by looking; however, a conclusive diagnosis requires the examination of hair, discharge, and skin cultures. Some of the tests and procedures your vet may conduct include: • Skin scrapes and hair plucks. • Swab of the skin or pus to look under the microscope and culture for bacterial growth. • Looking down the ear with an otoscope to evaluate the ear canal. If your dog is diagnosed with a bacterial skin infection, your vet will direct you to keep the affected areas as clean as feasible. In certain dog breeds, it may be necessary to have their hair clipped to allow air to areas to assist in the healing process. In many cases, prescription antibiotics will aid in recovery. Your vet may also suggest topical creams or shampoos. One of the most critical aspects of skin infection treatment is routine bathing which is beneficial because it: • Helps clean the skin, removing scaling and dirt that contains bacteria. • Can reduce any foul odours stemming from an infection. • May reduce itching and scratching. Your vet can direct you on the appropriate frequency of bathing for your pet and the type of dog shampoo to use. Bathing too frequently can irritate your dog’s skin, so the right balance is critical. Dog hygiene can be enhanced with the use of rinses and sprays in between baths. How to prevent skin infections in dogs? If you have a dog breed that is particularly susceptible to skin infections, consider speaking to your vet for a year-round plan to reduce the risks. Dogs with many skin folds might need maintenance treatment to keep these areas from becoming too moist and could require special wipes or shampoos to keep them clean. You can implement a routine where you inspect your dog for any visual signs of infection frequently. If you suspect your pet has a skin infection, talk to your vet for a diagnosis and treatment plan.  

As we get closer to COVID-19 related restrictions being slowly relaxed you’ll be looking forward to getting out and about more with your new puppy. Or, perhaps you’re thinking of buying a new puppy as life returns back to some kind of normal? Whatever your circumstances, we’ve put together a few tips for all new puppy parents.

If you're planning on getting out and about in the UK this summer, whether just for the day or for a longer period, we have some tips and advice for you and your pet.

With two welcomed bank holiday weekends in May, we wanted to let you know that our opening hours will vary from our usual times. Please see below our opening times and our out of hours contact number(s):

Parasite prevention is an integral part of taking good care of your cat or dog. Parasites also pose a threat to human health. Some pet parasites cause zoonotic infections, which means they can be transferred from pets to people.
Where and when can my pet get infected by parasites?
Dogs and cats can get parasites in a variety of places — whether they go outside or not. Other animals can bring parasites into your home. And anytime your pet is out, they are at risk. Fleas and ticks can live outside year-round, but the worst months are spring and autumn. Once fleas get in the house, they are a year-round problem.

Did you know...neutering can have significant healthcare benefits for your pet? Here are just a few of the benefits…

As we head into the summer months and temperatures start rising, it’s important to remember that your pets are most vulnerable at this time to many injuries and illnesses which are brought on by hot weather, including sunburn, foot pad burns, dehydration and the most dangerous of all, heatstroke. While heat stress is more common during the summer months, it can occur at any time throughout the year.