Forth Valley Veterinary Clinic Blog
Our top tips and useful information regarding pet and animal health…
Ticks
In Tasmania we have one type of Ixodes tick which can cause paralysis. Though generally not as severe as their mainland sisters, they can still cause paralysis and ultimately death of your pet if left untreated.
Female ticks attach onto the skin and secrete saliva into the bite site to prevent blood clotting so that they can have a nice long drink of blood. The saliva contains toxins which lead to paralysis. The long nerves are affected first – the hind legs and voice are usually the first areas to show change. Over time the paralysis creeps forward from the back legs until the entire body, including breathing muscles, are affected. Sometimes the toxins can directly affect the heart.
Keeping Birds Cool in Summer
Heat, stress and dehydration can be fatal, and small animals such as birds are especially susceptible. Hot humid days are especially dangerous, as heat loss is reduced in high humidity. Most birds have a body temperature of about 40 degrees, which is higher than that of mammals.
Heat Stress and Dehydration
Dogs cannot sweat through their skin as humans do, they sweat primarily from their nose and paw pads and expel heat via panting. On a hot day they can easily become overheated, signs of a heat stressed animal include excessive panting and lethargy. Avoid your dog becoming too overheated and succumbing to heatstroke.
Tips to Keep Your Short-Nosed Friend Cooler This Summer
We all know that summer can be a dangerous time for dogs. As they are susceptible to heatstress and suffer very easily. There is a breed of dog that is even more at risk than others- the Brachycephalic dog breeds, these breeds need more precautions than normal when it comes to the dangers of heat.
BBQ's and Family Picnics
Everyone loves a cookout, especially your pet, who gets to feast on table scraps. Some surprising foods, such as grapes, onions, garlic and raisins, can be toxic to dogs if consumed in large quantities and should stay off their menu.
Our staff are wildly passionate about animals and making sure your pet is living its healthiest and happiest life
Back that passion with expert qualifications and a love of learning, and it’s safe to say your fur family is in very safe hands.