February is Pet Dental Health Awareness Month, a month that raises awareness of the importance of dental care for our pets. Just like humans, dogs and cats need regular dental care. Poor dental hygiene can lead to serious health issues such as periodontal disease, tooth decay, and even heart or kidney problems. So, to help you keep your pet’s pearly whites in top condition, here are five essential tips for maintaining their dental health…

Tip 1: Regular Brushing

The best place to start is to build teeth brushing into their weekly routine. Just like with humans, brushing your pet’s teeth is crucial for preventing plaque build-up and maintaining oral hygiene. Use a pet-specific toothbrush and toothpaste (never use human toothpaste, as it can be toxic to pets) to brush your pet’s teeth at least 2-3 times a week. Start slowly, allowing your pet to get accustomed to the sensation, and gradually increase the frequency. Be sure to reward your pet with praise or treats to make the experience positive.

Tip 2: Dental Chews and Chew Toys:

Chewing on dental toys and treats can help remove plaque and tartar build-up while also providing mental stimulation for your pet. Look for dental chews and toys that are specifically designed to promote oral health, such as those with ridges or textures that help clean teeth. However, be mindful of the ingredients, and choose products that are safe and appropriate for your pet’s size and dietary needs.

Tip 3: Regular Vet Check-ups

Schedule regular dental checkups with your veterinarian to monitor your pet’s oral health and address any issues early on. Your vet can perform a thorough dental examination, including cleaning and scaling if necessary, to remove stubborn plaque and tartar. They can also identify any underlying dental problems or issues that may require further treatment.

Tip 4: Monitor their Diet and Nutrition:

A healthy diet plays a significant role in your pet’s overall health, including their dental health. Provide your pet with high-quality, nutritionally balanced food that promotes dental health. Avoid feeding them table scraps and treats that are high in sugar, as these can contribute to tooth decay and gum disease.

Tip 5: Keep a close eye!

Pay attention to any changes in your pet’s behaviour or oral health, such as bad breath, swollen gums, difficulty eating, or excessive drooling. These could be signs of dental problems or other underlying health issues that require attention. By being proactive and observant, you can address potential issues early on and prevent them from progressing into more serious conditions.

And that’s it! Your pet’s dental health is essential for ensuring their overall well-being, and by implementing these tips into your pet care routine, you can help keep your furry friend’s smile bright and healthy for years to come. Remember, a little effort now can lead to big benefits down the road, so make dental care a priority for your beloved companions this Pet Dental Health Awareness Month and beyond.

As the dark nights of winter are with us, there are many challenges for our four-legged friends, from reduced visibility to potential hazards such as reduced visibility, traffic dangers and wildlife predators. In this blog, we will explore essential tips and precautions to ensure the well-being of your pets when venturing out in the dark. 

Dogs

Dogs are naturally active and curious, and love the opportunity to explore their surroundings, regardless of the time of day. When darkness descends, however, it’s crucial to take extra precautions to guarantee their safety. 

Our tips:

• Invest in reflective gear, such as a collar or harness with reflective strips, making them more visible to passing vehicles and pedestrians. 
• For added protection, consider attaching an LED light to their collar.
• Choose well-lit routes during nighttime walks, avoiding poorly lit areas where potential hazards may lurk.
• Consider training your dog to respond to commands, especially in low-light conditions, as this is another key aspect of keeping them safe during nocturnal adventures. 

Cats

Cats are known for their nocturnal tendencies and might find the darkness alluring, however exploring outside in these conditions may also introduce unique risks. 

Our tips:

• Consider keeping them indoors during the darkest hours and coldest nights. 
• If your cat insists on exploring the night, equip them with a breakaway collar featuring reflective elements to enhance visibility. 
• Create a well-lit outdoor space, such as a catio, that will allow your cat to indulge their nighttime instincts in a secure environment. 
• Be cautious of potential nocturnal predators 

As responsible pet parents, it’s our duty to prioritise the safety and well-being of our cherished companions, especially when the sun goes down. We hope these tips will help you ensure your pet can enjoy the darkness without compromising their security.

As the cold and dark weather settles in our pets often get less outdoor playtime, so finding ways to keep their brains stimulated indoors becomes a priority. When venturing outside is not an option due to harsh weather conditions, there are plenty of stimulating activities and fun games you can try to ensure your pets remain happy, healthy and engaged within the cosy confines of home. 

Here are our 8 recommendations on how to keep your pets stimulated and active during unpleasant weather conditions this winter.

1. Invest in some Interactive Toys and Puzzles

Interactive toys and puzzles designed to engage your pets mentally and physically have many health benefits. Puzzle feeders for dogs and treat-dispensing toys for cats are excellent choices for keeping them mentally stimulated for some time. These toys encourage problem-solving skills while providing a fun challenge, despite having to stay indoors due to harsh weather.

2. Create a DIY Indoor Obstacle Course

Set up an indoor obstacle course using household items such as pillows, cardboard boxes, hula hoops, cones and tunnels for your pets to navigate. Guide them through the course using treats or toys as motivation. This activity not only promotes physical exercise and mental stimulation, but you also get to spend quality time with your pets which will keep them happy and healthy overall.

3. Play Hide and Seek

Engage your pets in a game of hide and seek. Hide their favourite toys or treats around the house and encourage them to find these hidden treasures. This game stimulates their sense of smell and keeps them mentally active. If you’re feeling up to it, why not play with them yourself and find a place to hide around the house? Putting time aside for playtime will not only keep your pets engaged, but it’ll also bring them joy by giving them your time and attention.

4. Play Indoor Fetch or Catch

Play a modified version of fetch or catch indoors using soft toys or lightweight balls. This activity helps burn off excess energy while reinforcing bonding and coordination skills with your pets.

5. Schedule time for Training Sessions

Engage in training sessions with your pets to teach them new tricks or reinforce existing commands. Use positive reinforcement techniques like treats or praise to encourage the behaviour.

6. Invest in some Interactive Feeding

Consider using interactive feeding devices or slow feeders for meals. This not only slows down eating but also turns mealtime into a mentally stimulating activity for pets. You can easily find the appropriate food dispenser for your pets online to keep them mentally engaged.

7. Rotate Toys and Activities

Keep things fresh by regularly rotating toys and activities. Introduce new toys, switch up the arrangement of obstacles in the indoor course, or vary the games to prevent boredom and maintain interest from your pets.

8. Entertain pets with Music and TV Time

Play calming music or pet-specific TV programs designed to entertain and relax pets. Some channels feature visuals and sounds that are appealing to cats and dogs, providing them with entertainment.

Winter weather doesn’t have to mean a lack of stimulation and activity for your pets. By implementing these indoor activities, toys and games, you can ensure that your furry companions stay mentally engaged, physically active and content during the colder months. Remember, each pet is unique, so observe their preferences and tailor activities to suit their individual needs for a happy and healthy indoor lifestyle.

It’s that time of the year again. The temperatures drop and the days become shorter which means our beloved pets require extra care and attention to stay warm, healthy and happy. Winter can be a challenging time for animals, as cold weather poses unique risks. Additionally, it’s essential to remember that pet care is a year-round commitment, including maintaining regular flea and worming treatments, like VetBox, even during the colder seasons.

Want to find out how you can best look after your pet this winter? You’ve come to the right place! Below is our 8-step guide of things to be mindful of when caring for your pet during winter:

1. Make an Effort to Understand Winter Risks for Pets

Winter brings about a set of challenges that can affect your pet’s health. For instance, exposure to cold can lead to hypothermia, especially in smaller and short-haired breeds. Moreover, chemicals used during winter, such as antifreeze, can be toxic to pets. It’s crucial to understand these risks to ensure your pet’s safety and comfort.

2. Create a Warm and Safe Space

Ensure your pet has a warm and cosy place away from cold drafts and damp areas in your home. Bedding should be thick and comfortable, and for pets that spend time outdoors, proper shelter is essential. Also, consider a pet-safe heating solution if necessary.

3. Manage Outdoor Time

While some pets enjoy playing in the snow, it’s important to limit their time outside during extreme cold conditions. For breeds that are more susceptible to cold, consider using pet coats or sweaters when you venture outdoors. After dog walks, check and clean your pets’ paws to remove any salt or de-icing chemicals that they might have stepped on, which can be harmful if licked off.

4. Be Mindful of your Pet’s Diet and Hydration

Your pet’s dietary needs might change in winter. Some pets require more calories during the cold months, while others who are less active, might need less. It’s important to ensure your pet has access to clean, unfrozen water at all times, so do regularly wash and refresh their water bowls.

5. Maintain your Pet’s Mental Stimulation and Exercise

Due to winter’s rainy, wet and colder conditions, your pet may spend less outdoor time which means, finding ways to keep them fit and mentally stimulated indoors is crucial. Interactive toys, puzzle feeders and indoor play like hide & seek can help keep your pet active and engaged even if the weather prevents you and your pet from exploring outdoors.

6. Keep Up-to-Date with Grooming and Health Checks

Winter can be tough on your pet’s skin and coat. Regular grooming helps prevent matting and dry skin. It’s also a good opportunity to check the body of your pet for any unusual signs that might require veterinary attention.

7. Maintain a Year-Round Parasite Prevention

Contrary to popular belief, fleas and worms are not just a summer problem. These parasites can survive indoors during winter, making year-round flea prevention crucial for your pet’s health. VetBox offers a convenient and effective way to ensure your pet is protected against fleas and worms throughout the year, not just in the warmer months. 

Check out how to get started using VetBox here to protect your pet against fleas, ticks, roundworms and tapeworms.

8. Give Extra-Special Care for Senior Pets

Older pets, or those with health conditions, may need extra care during winter. They may be more vulnerable to the cold and might require adjustments in their diet, exercise and medication.

Winter care for pets involves a bit more than just keeping them warm. By understanding the unique challenges of the season, being mindful of all the above tips, and continuing with regular health checks and parasite prevention with products like VetBox, you can ensure your fur friends stay happy and healthy throughout the winter months.

We hope this blog has been helpful and armed you, as pet owners, with useful guidance on how to best care for your pet in winter. 

We’d love to know your winter pet care tips or experiences with VetBox in the comments below, please share them with us if you can!

As a pet owner, you’ve probably experienced the anxiety fireworks night can bring to your pet. The loud bangs and bright lights can be distressing, leading to fear, anxiety, and stress. However, with the right preparations, you can help your pet stay calm and comfortable during fireworks night. We’re going to provide you with 8 valuable tips to make this experience less stressful for both you and your pet.

1. Create a Safe Haven

One of the first steps to calming your pet during fireworks night is to create a safe and secure space for them. This can be a quiet room or a comfortable crate. Add their favourite toys, blankets, and bedding to make it cosy and inviting. If possible, find a space where noise from outside will be minimised.

2. Stay with Your Pet

Your presence is a significant source of comfort and reassurance for your pet during fireworks displays. Staying with your pet and speaking to them in a soothing voice can help make them feel safe and calm. Offer your pets cuddles to help ease their anxiety. Your calm demeanour can have a positive impact on your pet’s state of mind.

3. Close Curtains and Play Soothing Music

Close the curtains to block out the flashes of light from the fireworks. Playing soothing music or white noise at a reasonable volume can also help mask the sound of the fireworks. There are specialised playlists designed for pets available online, which can be particularly helpful!

4. Consider Thunder Shirts or Anxiety Wraps

Thunder shirts or anxiety wraps are snug-fitting garments designed to provide gentle pressure to your pet’s body. Many animals find this pressure calming, and these products are available for both dogs and cats which you can easily purchase online. You can try one on your pet to see if it helps them feel more secure.

5. Consult Your Veterinarian

If your pet’s anxiety during fireworks night is severe, it’s a good idea to consult your veterinarian before fireworks night. They can recommend anti-anxiety medications or other interventions that may help your pet cope with the stress. Veterinarians can also provide advice tailored to your pet’s specific needs.

6. Gradual Desensitisation To Firework Noises

Desensitising your pet to fireworks noises can be effective over time. You can find firework sound recordings online. Start with a low volume and gradually increase it while rewarding your pet with treats and praise. This process can help your pet become more accustomed to the loud sounds and less anxious.

7. Use a Lead When Going Outside

If you need to take your pet outside during fireworks night, make sure they are on a leash or in a secure, enclosed area. The loud noises can startle them, causing them to bolt and run away. Keeping them on a lead or in a secure area is crucial for their safety.

8. Ensure Proper Pet Identification

Always make sure your pet has proper identification, such as a collar with an ID tag and a microchip. In case they do manage to escape, it will be much easier to reunite with them if they have the necessary identification.

Fireworks night can be a challenging time for pets, but with the right preparations, you can help keep them calm and safe. Creating a secure environment, staying with your pet, and using techniques like thunder shirts, desensitisation, and soothing music can make a significant difference in their comfort.

Remember, your furry friend depends on you for care and support during these stressful moments. By following these tips, you can ensure a more peaceful and enjoyable fireworks night for both you and your pet.

September is Animal Pain Awareness Month, an important reminder for pet owners to pay attention to their furry companions’ well-being. Unlike humans, pets can’t directly communicate when they’re in pain. As responsible caregivers, it’s our duty to learn how to recognise signs of discomfort in our beloved pets. In this blog, we’ll share five essential tips to help you detect if your pets are in pain.

1. Watch for changes in behaviour

One of the most reliable indicators of pain in pets is a change in behaviour. Keep an eye out for any unusual actions, such as decreased activity, hiding, or a sudden increase in aggression. If your normally sociable pet becomes withdrawn or irritable, it could be a sign that they’re in pain.

2. Observe changes in appetite

Pain can significantly affect an animal’s appetite. If your pet suddenly loses interest in food or water, or if they’re eating less than usual, it’s a red flag. Additionally, some pets may overeat when they’re in pain due to stress or anxiety. Therefore, it’s important you monitor their eating habits closely.

3. Pay attention to grooming habits

Changes in grooming behaviour can also be an indication that your fur friend is in pain. Cats, for instance, may stop grooming themselves properly if they’re hurting. Dogs on the other hand, might excessively lick or bite at a painful area. Check for bald patches, redness or swelling, as these can provide valuable clues.

4. Limping or altered posture

Physical manifestations of pain are often evident through your pet’s posture and movement. Watch for limping, stiffness, or reluctance to move. If your pet suddenly favours one leg or seems hunched over, it’s a sign that they may be experiencing discomfort.

5. Vocalisation and restlessness

Some pets may vocalise or become unusually restless when in pain. Whining, whimpering, or yowling can all indicate distress. Restlessness, constant pacing, or an inability to settle down could be a sign that your pet is struggling with pain.

Animal Pain Awareness Month serves as a reminder that our pets rely on us to be their advocates when they can’t express their pain in words. By paying close attention to changes in behaviour, appetite, grooming habits, posture, and vocalisation, you can become attuned to your pet’s needs and potentially detect pain early. Prompt recognition of pain can lead to timely veterinary care, ensuring that your furry friend receives the necessary treatment and relief they need.

Remember, every pet is unique, and signs of pain may vary. If you suspect that your pet is in pain, consult your veterinarian immediately. Early intervention can make a world of difference in your pet’s comfort and well-being! Let’s use this month to raise awareness about the importance of recognising and addressing pain in our animal companions, because every pet deserves a pain-free and happy life. 

As much as we love spending time with our pets, we can’t always be with them 24/7. Although it’s difficult, sometimes it’s necessary to leave our pets at home when we travel. So, we’re going to share 3 key steps you can take as a pet parent whether you’re hiring a professional sitter, or having a friend or family to take care of your pet to ensure your time away from home will go smoothly and stress-free. 

1. Familiarise your pet with the sitter

It’s important to find the right person to leave your pet with while you’re away as this can reduce a lot of anxiety. If you’re hiring a professional, it’s best to make sure you book as far in advance as possible as good pet sitters have busy schedules.

Once you have someone confirmed to take care of your pet, it’s helpful for them to visit your home a few times in the week or two before their stay, and similarly if you’re leaving your pet at a family or friends’ home, pop round a few times. This is so your pet and sitter are well acquainted and your pet will be used to their new surroundings.

For dog owners, another helpful tip is for you to go on walks with your dog and their sitter, point out your dog’s favourite spots in the neighbourhood or their favourite park to play at. You can also try to give the sitter the leash on the way back so your dog can warm up to them. 

2. Make sure your house is prepared

To make things easier for your pet sitter and to avoid any accidents, it’s essential to ensure your home is well equipped with your pet’s daily needs and tools required in case of emergencies. 

• Keep your home hazard free – put away any small toys or clutter that can be a choking hazard when your pet is left alone. 
• Clear any valuables – store away things that you do not want your pet to damage, scratch or chew on such as shoes, cushions, plants and rubbish. 
• Prepare all your pet’s essentials – lay out your dog’s leash, any toys you want them to have, bed, carrier or crate that is easily accessible for the sitter. Ensuring your pet has enough food, waste bags, medication (if necessary), treats, and pet first aid kit are also key. 
• Secure your back garden – make sure your garden doesn’t have any gaps or broken fences that your dog can escape from. If your garden is not completely secured, it’s important that you make the sitter aware so they can keep your pet on a leash while being out in the garden. 

3. Leave key instructions and notes for your sitter

Although you may just be a call or message away, it’s always helpful to have written instructions, key notes or an itinerary of your pet’s schedule for your pet sitter to refer to. 

It can also be too much to expect your pet sitter to remember every single detail to care for your pet. Post-it-notes and lists go a long way to ensure your pet is happy and safe while you are away. Here’s a few helpful notes you can leave your pet sitter:

• Your pet’s schedule / day-to-day routine.
• Your pet’s personality, any behaviours they should be aware of.
• Any allergies your pet may have and medication they need to take.
• Emergency contact numbers and your trip itinerary.
• Your pet’s veterinarian contact details and address in case of an emergency. It’s also important to let your vet know your pet sitter is authorised to take care of your pet.
• Any specific rules about your pet’s diet – Portion sizes, feeding times.
• Next of kin contact information just in case your sitter cannot reach you.
• Spare keys and house alarm information for your sitter.

In the end, rest assured that your pet will be safe and happy as long as you’ve made all the necessary arrangements and preparations. Lastly, avoid making a fuss when you leave as this will only trigger your pet’s anxiety. Try to go for a walk or play a game of fetch before it’s time to part ways with your pet to keep your departure casual.

It is heartbreaking when your pet goes missing, so since July is National Lost Pet Prevention month, we want to share 5 key reminders on how you can keep your pets safe.

1. Ensure your pets wears collars and I.D. tags

Dogs should wear a collar with a tag. The right collar is snug but not too tight – you should be able to fit two fingers between the collar and their neck without too much of a gap. Pet I.D. tags are available to purchase online or in most pet stores. It’s also your responsibility as their owner to ensure that the contact details on the tag are up to date!

It can be dangerous for cats to wear a collar as they may snag, especially when they are out and about. If you wish to put a collar on your cat, a quick release collar is the safest option to prevent your cat from getting caught or stuck when they are outside. 

It’s important for your pets to wear collars and I.D. tags since this will help identify them should they get lost. Pets who wear identification tags are more likely to be returned home safely.

2. Secure your garden and home

Sometimes it may not even cross our minds to double check and make sure our gardens are escape-proof. Our furry friends are adventure seekers and there may be times where they’ll try to sneak out of their homes. Make sure there are no gaps between your fences and gates that are big enough for your pets to fit through and make sure they’re tall enough for them not to jump over. It may be a good idea to also avoid placing garden benches or plant pots nearby fences to prevent pets from using this as a step to jump over.

3. Microchip your pet

Microchipping your pet is a painless and affordable procedure. Should your pet be picked up by someone if they get lost, they can be taken to the vet to scan their microchip and match this with your contact details, so make sure the information in your pet’s microchip is up to date. 

4. Teach your dog “come” and “stay”

Obedience training your dog has so many benefits. From teaching them basic commands such as ‘sit’, ‘wait’, ‘here’ and ‘stay’, it’s a lot safer and easier to take your dog out in public. This gives your dog the freedom to do the things they love such as running off lead, greeting friends, family and even strangers while being safe and under control. This will reduce the possibility of your pet getting lost and prevent them from trying to bolt out of an open door or gate on their walkies. 

5. Find the right leash

If your dog is more aloof and likes to bolt and run around, investing in a long line lead on their collar to keep them secure is a must. Your fur babies are still very keen and tempted to run away and chase squirrels or cats, so if your dog doesn’t have a strong recall, finding the right leash and keeping them by your side is the safest option to avoid losing them. 

We hope these 5 key tips will help you keep your pets safe. It’s important for us as pet owners to ensure we do everything we can to prevent our pets from getting lost. July is one of the busiest months of the year with summer holidays taking place and many people are travelling with their pets. Let’s continue to spread awareness and reduce the number of missing pets each year.

Spring brings us warmer weather, blue skies, and blooming plants. However, it’s important to remember that some seasonal plants may be poisonous to our fur babies. Here are the most commonly found poisonous spring plants, and the signs of poisoning. 

Dogs 

Daffodils – Found in gardens or kept inside, if dogs ingest daffodils or consume the water they are kept in, this could cause an upset stomach, vomiting, and can make them fatigued. The same reaction can be seen in cats. 

Bluebells – These can be found in the woods, so keep your dog close during walks in these areas. If ingested these can cause vomiting, diarrhoea, fatigue and disorientation.  

Azaleas – These can be a beautiful addition to your garden, however even the smallest amount consumed by your dog could cause difficulty breathing, nausea and vomiting. 

Tulips – If you’re planning to pick some up from the shop or grow them yourself, keep these away from your pup. Tulips can cause drooling, diarrhoea and vomiting. The same reaction can be seen in cats. 

Other poisonous plants include:

• Buttercups
• Crocuses
• Cyclamen 
• Elderberry
• Foxglove
• Hyacinth 
• Lupin 

Cats

Lillies – These are the perfect seasonal flower, however even in a vase of water, they can be extremely poisonous to cats. The flowers, leaves and pollen can get stuck to your cat’s fur and consumed through grooming, this can cause vomiting and even kidney failure. 

Amaryllis – The stalks, flowers and bulbs of this beautiful plant, unfortunately, contain a toxin which can cause your cat to vomit, have a change in blood pressure and potentially have a seizure. 

Hyacinths – Commonly found blooming in a garden, consuming these can lead to your cat drooling, vomiting and having diarrhoea. 

Other poisonous plants include:

• Chrysanthemums
• Gladiolus
• Crocus
• Cyclamen
• Foxglove
• Widow’s thrill

There’s no need to worry as long as you keep these plants out of reach, and there are many pet-friendly plant options which can be used to spruce up the garden or your house this spring.

Heading on a road trip with your pet can feel daunting. You want to ensure that your pet is comfortable and safe, whilst enjoying the journey. Here are our tips to prepare you for a stress-free trip.

The essentials

• Plenty of water 
• Food and extra treats 
• A comfort item from home such as their bed or a blanket 
• A collar with ID tags, your pet should also be chipped too. 
• Their carrier or crate 
• Animal first aid kit 

Dog essentials and tips

Essentials:

• A harness that can be safely attached to a seatbelt 
• Weather-appropriate clothing/accessories, e.g. a jacket for colder weather
• Lots of poop bags 

Tips:

• Take plenty of breaks. This will allow your dog to use the toilet and stretch their legs.
• Bring some chew treats or toys. Sitting for long periods of time can be challenging for active dogs, therefore providing them with some stimulants will keep them entertained.

Cat essentials and tips

Essentials:

• Litterbox – this will reduce your stops 
• Feline anxiety medication – just in case 

Tips:

• Pack litter and take minimal stops. Stopping a lot within a journey can cause more stress for your cat, so bring their litter tray for when they need the toilet and keep the pitstops to a limit.

Car tips and rules

• Never leave your pet unattended in the car. This can lead to them panicking and if the outside temperature is warm, your car will heat up quickly, even with a cracked open window. 
• Dogs should be restrained at all times, whether in their crate or by their lead. Dogs are much bigger than cats and if loose can become dangerous and a distraction whilst driving.
• Create a space safe. Some animals won’t like to be kept in their crate for long periods, this is why you dedicate a space in the car for your pet. Adding blankets from home and some food and water will help direct your pet towards this. 

For one less thing to think about before your journey, use VetBox to ensure your pets is tick, flea and worm safe when you arrive at your destination!