Welcome to the Home From Home Dog Boarding BLOG!
We will keep you regularly updated with the latest news about us as well as interesting articles about all things dog.
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Narcolepsy
Narcolepsy is a rare non-fatal neurological disease that causes dogs to suddenly fall asleep or collapse.
It is often inherited but can also be associated with obesity and is usually seen in young dogs. It can also be caused by inflammatory conditions of the nervous system such as Meningitis or Canine Distemper Virus. It can be seen in any breed but Dobermans, Labradors, Poodles and Dachshunds have been found to have a genetic form.
Kamela Prevett BVM&S, MRCVS
Kamela graduated from Edinburgh University in 1997. After working at a large practice in Salisbury, Kamela decided that she preferred a closer bond with patients in a smaller practice environment so joined Cobham Veterinary Centre in January 2008. Kamela is our Consultant Vet; our go-to lady for advice if we have any medical situations.
Kamela is also our Contributing Editor on our blog page giving sensible advice and dismissing some popular myths. Please click on the links below to see what Kam is sharing with us.
Haemoabdomen
Haemoabdomen means there is free fluid in a dog’s abdominal cavity. The most common cause is a ruptured spleen secondary to a tumour.
Brucellosis
Brucellosis in dogs is an infectious disease caused by the bacteria Brucellosis Canis.
Aerophagia
It can occur in any breed of dog although old English Sheepdogs and Wheaten Terriers seem to be more commonly affected.
Diseases of the Parathyroid Glands
The parathyroid glands are tiny glands which sit within the thyroid glands in a dog’s neck. They are not normally palpable.
Grain Free Diets
Ongoing studies aim to discover more about the relationship between grain free diets (GFD) and cardiac disease.
Myasthenia Gravis
Myasthenia Gravis (MG) is a rare muscle disease that is characterised by generalised muscle weakness.
New Drug Regimes
Remembering to administer a daily or twice daily treatment can be bad enough for ourselves let alone for our pets. It is not always easy to hide tablets in treats and sometimes, even the greediest dogs can refuse to take them. With that in mind there is a new group of long-acting drugs that are administered by the vet at the clinic.
Vomiting
Vomiting is a very common symptom in dogs but has a huge range of causes; some minor and some very serious. Most cases resolve within 24 hours without veterinary attention.
Ear Infections
Ear infections in dogs are incredibly common, most involve the outer ear (also called otitis externa or OE) and are caused by bacteria.
Dog Foot Injuries
Foot injuries and problems are relatively common as dogs race around. Symptoms include lameness, licking or chewing affected paws, hair loss, saliva staining, inflammation, swelling and bleeding. A thorough clinical examination will usually diagnose the problem.
Cranial Cruciate Ligament
Cranial Cruciate Ligament (CrCL) disease is a very common cause of hindlimb lameness in dogs, especially medium to large breeds.
Entropion
Entropion is a condition in which the eyelids roll inwards allowing the surrounding hair to contact the surface of the eye and irritate the cornea.
Vomiting
Vomiting is a very common symptom in dogs, it is caused by many different factors, some will be self-limiting and not warrant veterinary attention, others being potentially fatal.
Diagnostic tests
Vets have an extensive range of diagnostic tools at their disposal for assisting in diagnosing a condition when it has not been possible to discover what is wrong with a patient from a clinical examination alone.
What happens when your dog goes for an operation?
Leaving your dog anywhere is often an upsetting experience but leaving them at the vets for an operation is even more stressful.
Blood Tests
Blood tests are used to learn more about your dog’s health. Blood is a mixture of cells, fluid, protein and biochemicals.
Lymphoma
Lymphoma is a cancer of the white blood cells, and after skin cancer, is one of the most common types of cancer we see in dogs.
Diarrhoea
Diarrhoea in dogs is very common and is usually caused by dietary indiscretion (eating something that they are not used to).
Skin Allergies
Dogs can be allergic to a wide range of environmental allergens including pollens, grass, moulds, house dust or storage mites and fleas.
Post Operation Complications
Fortunately, serious post-operative complications are relatively rare and the majority of more common minor complications can be avoided by carefully following post-operative instructions. Sometimes our patients don't always behave like they have had major surgery!
Dental Disease
Dental disease is a very common problem of the teeth and gums. It is mainly seen in middle to old age dogs due to wear and tear. Some breeds are predisposed due to the shape of their mouths.
Mast Cell Tumours
Mast cell tumours (MCT) are one of the most commonly diagnosed cancers in dogs. Mast cells are a type of inflammatory cell that are normally found in the skin, lungs, and gastrointestinal tract. MCT often appear swollen and inflamed and can fluctuate in size. The vast majority of MCT occur in the skin because this is the organ that contains the most mast cells normally.
Insulinoma
An Insulinoma is a tumour of the pancreas which results in an excessive production of insulin. It can affect any dog, but large breeds are more prevalent and unfortunately these are invariably malignant tumours.
CDM
CDM (canine degenerative myelopathy) is a non-painful condition that results in a progressive paralysis of the hind limbs. It was previously known as CDRM. It is mainly seen in German Shepherd dogs, but many other breeds can be affected including Boxers, Poodles, Corgis and Retrievers.
Picking a dog to suit you!
Dogs are broadly split into 7 different groups according to similar traits and personalities.
Lymphoma
Lymphoma is a cancer of the white blood cells, and after skin cancer, is one of the most common types of cancer we see in dogs. Lymphoma arises from a type of white blood cell called a lymphocyte. These cells are involved in fighting infections and travel all over the body, so lymphoma is often widespread.
Bladder Problems
Bladder problems are relatively common in dogs, and despite varying causes, have very similar presenting signs of blood in the urine (haematuria), difficulty or pain when urinating (dysuria), increased frequency of urination (pollakiuria) and leaking urine.
Cough
A dog coughing occasionally is not unusual, especially because they spend a lot of their walks with their noses to the ground! Sniffing is used to explore their environment as their sense of smell is much more sensitive than ours, but often means they will breathe in dust and germs.
Arthritis
Arthritis is one of the most common problems we see in dogs. It can develop at any age or breed and can be due to wear and tear, traumatic injuries, or conformational anomalies.
Epilepsy
Epilepsy is the most common neurological disorder seen in dogs and affects nearly 1% of the canine population. The condition can be inherited (genetic epilepsy), due to structural changes in the brain (structural epilepsy) or due to an unknown cause. Diagnosis of the type and cause of the seizures aids in the determination of a suitable therapeutic regime.
A Dog is not just for Covid 19
Rehoming charities are expecting a surge in dogs as people return to work.
Hip dysplasia
Hip dysplasia is a painful condition that results in one or both hip joints developing abnormally in a growing puppy. It is an inherited condition from one or both parents and is primarily (but not exclusively) seen in larger breeds.
Vaccine to vacation - A ticket to a holiday?
The hugely positive news coming from Pfizer has given the travel industry the preverbal ‘shot in the arm’ it desperately needed.
Brachycephalic Breeds
Over the last couple of years there has been a huge rise in popularity of the French Bulldog and other brachycephalic breeds such as Pugs.
Holidays in 2021 - Book a trip with confidence!
As we all know due to the coronavirus, holidays have been a real challenge this year; they are supposed to be a fun and exciting break from normal life!
Life Stage Feeding
Life stage feeding is a term used when describing the changing nutritional needs of your dog with age.
Best dog walks in South East of England
Whether you walk for leisure or a seasoned pro, seeking an active walk for your four-legged friend is always a challenge. So, we thought we would compile a few carefully selected walks if you live in the South of England.
Raw Diets
Raw meat-based diets (RMBD) have become increasingly popular in recent years stemming from pet owners hoping to feed domestic dogs in a similar way to their wild counterparts.
Physiotherapy
Physiotherapy is the treatment of disease or injury with massage, heat, cold or exercise. It is a useful adjunct to traditional medicine especially in long term cases such as arthritis but also post-surgery such as a cruciate ligament rupture.
International Rescue
So, you want to help dogs and dog charities both here in the UK and beyond. Here are some links to dog organisations from around the world and information on the fantastic support they offer.
Nutraceuticals
Nutraceuticals is a term used to describe supplements that have a health benefit in the prevention or treatment of often chronic disease.
Easing your dog out of lockdown
Here are eight ways to make sure your dog doesn't become over-dependent, as this can ultimately result in separation anxiety and behavioural issues.
Lameness
Lameness is one of the most common reasons for dogs to come and see us. It can vary from a severe acute incident where the dog comes in not being able to weight bear on a leg to a mild intermittent lameness that has been grumbling on for a few weeks or even more.
Books written by celebrities about their dogs
Earlier this month Monty Don's dog Nigel, sadly died so we thought we would write a blog post about the book written about him and other books written by celebrities about their dogs.
Autoimmune Diseases
Normally the dog’s immune system fights against foreign bacteria and viruses that invade the body. Autoimmune diseases occur when the immune system attacks the body`s own cells instead.
Videos of Dogs in Lockdown
Here are some of the videos of dogs in lockdown that have made us laugh over the last month. We thought we would share them with you too!!
Vets and Covid-19
Covid-19 or the coronavirus is affecting every single one of us at the moment and the veterinary industry is no exception.
Time to get a new dog
Battersea Dogs and Cats home have recently reported a huge increase in people choosing to adopt since more and more people are finding themselves at home. In March, it was reported a total of 86 dogs were adopted. That's more than double this time last year.
Female Dogs
Here are the most common problems seen in female dogs and as you can see if a bitch is not going to be used for breeding there is a good reason why vets advise spaying!!
Dogs & Mental Health
Dogs dauntlessly co-operate with people in life-saving circumstances; for example, police or with missing persons, yet they offer us friendship and unlimited love – they’re genuinely are our closest companions.
Male Dogs
When deciding on whether to have a male or female dog it is useful to consider the health problems seen in each sex as well as behavioural differences. Male
Celebs with rescue dogs
Here is a round-up of celebs that went for the rescue and adoption option over the buying one.
Prescription Diets
There are many different diets available for every day feeding for healthy dogs but there is also a range of specialist diets specifically designed to help individual illnesses.
Who is Julian Norton?
In the last one of a series of blogs looking at significant figures in the pet world, we turn the spotlight on Julian Norton.
Winter Problems
Numerous health problems seem to be more common or worse over the winter. The cold wet weather seems to exacerbate achy joints so you may find an old arthritic dog struggles more to get going in the morning.
Who is Steve Irwin?
In the fourth and penultimate blog of the series, we take a look at one of or if not the most famous animal and environmental conservationists there ever was, Steve Irwin.
Ear Problems
Ear problems are really common in dogs. Ears should be clean and not smelly. If you notice any discharge, excess wax, redness, smell or itchiness it could indicate a problem.
Who is David Attenborough?
In the next blog of the series, we take a look at significant figures in the pet and animal world - there’s no greater person to feature than Sir David Attenborough.
Noise
Many dogs have anxiety over loud noises, and this is highlighted at this time of year with fireworks night on the horizon. It can be a very stressful few weeks for dogs and their owners.
Who is Steve Leonard?
In the second of a series of blogs looking at significant figures in the pet world; we turn the spotlight on Steve Leonard.
Pet Insurance
To insure a pet or not is a question I get asked frequently by clients. 15 years ago, I would not have hesitated in saying that it was the best thing to do. However, with the advancement of veterinary medicine over the years the cost of procedures has escalated and insurance premiums have reflected this making them prohibitively expensive for many.
Who is Noel Fitzpatrick?
In the first of a series of blogs looking at significant figures in the pet world, we turn the spotlight on Noel Fitzpatrick…
Summer Problems
With the recent short but sharp heatwave, it is important to remember that our canine friends are much less capable of dealing with the heat than we are.
Pedigree, Cross-breed or Mongrel?
Giving a dog a forever home is a long-term commitment – in some cases up to 20 years. Whether it's a pedigree, a crossbreed or a mongrel, you need to carefully consider whether you're going to be able to dedicate the time your dog requires for it to live a comfortable and peaceful life. There are some differences between a pedigree, a crossbred dog, and a mongrel and when considering a new pet, it is essential to understand what to expect.
Eye Problems
Eye problems are very common in dogs; from straightforward conjunctivitis to sight-threatening glaucoma.
Brexit, and how it will affect pet travel
After Brexit, your pet will still be able to travel into the EU and the shuttle is probably still the best way to take your pet abroad.
Respiratory Disease
Symptoms of respiratory disease in dogs are similar to those seen in humans. Nasal congestion and discharge, coughing, fever, runny eyes, sneezing, laboured and/or rapid breathing, general lethargy and a poor appetite are all signs. Any symptom relating to the upper or lower respiratory system needs to be investigated thoroughly as they can range from minor self-limiting problems to life threatening.
A new Animal Activities Licence and it’s regulations
From the 1st of October 2018, there were new regulations put into place about the new AAL (Animal activities licensing). Any business in England that are involved in trading living animals, boarding cats or dogs at any time will need a licence which is under the new regulations. Existing licences will be valid until they run out. Things like dog walking, pet grooming and pet sitting are not covered by the new regulations.
Emergencies & First Aid
Basic first aid knowledge in an emergency could be the difference between life and death. The following problems would always be considered an emergency and you should seek veterinary advice as quickly as possible.
Lyme Disease
Lyme Disease is a bacterial infection spread by ticks. It is the major worry when dogs pick up ticks on a walk. Lyme Disease can affect humans but it is only transferred from one animal to another by an infected tick so you can’t get the disease directly from your dog.
Common Poisons
Chocolate is probably the most common cause of poisoning we see in dogs; we have it around the house and it tastes good to us as well as dogs!! Fortunately, it is only fatal if large amounts of dark chocolate are ingested as this contains more theobromine than milk or white chocolate.
The Mayhew Centre
The Mayhew Centre recognises that animal welfare issues and social welfare issues are connected. They support projects that range from controlling the feral population to saving abandoned animals.
Pet Trends in 2019
Do you want to investigate the future? Michelson Found Animals did a survey to see some predictions for some of the biggest pet trends for 2019.
Skin Conditions
Skin conditions are one of the most common reasons we see dogs in the clinic. Although they are rarely life threatening, they can be a cause of huge discomfort for the dogs and large cost for the owner to treat. The common symptoms of skin disease are itching, licking, sore red or dry skin, rashes, dandruff or baldness.
Charity begins at home.
How about donating to the lesser known dog rescue charities this Christmas? Instead of giving to the higher profiled animal charities and shelters this year, why not find a local charity to donate to?
Heart Disease
Heart disease is very common in dogs affecting approximately 10% of the population.
The homeless and their dogs
We’re big fans of Paul O’Grady and the work he does with Battersea Dogs and Cats Home. This week he joined charity StreetVet on the streets of London, helping to give access to veterinary care for the homeless and their dogs. In this post we’ll explore how the homeless come to care for dogs, and often look after them better than they care for themselves.
Diabetes
Diabetes is an incurable but treatable disease that can affect dogs of any age, sex or breed. It occurs when the dog’s pancreas no longer produces insulin. Most dogs suffer from type 1 diabetes rather than type 2 which is the one related to obesity.
Separation Anxiety
Leaving your dog at home whilst you go to work can be challenging for both you and your pup. As much as we want to spend all day with our dogs, sometimes it’s not possible and particularly in the daytime.
Benefits of Being a Dog Carer
Have you ever considered becoming a dog carer but aren’t really sure whether it’s for you?
Lumps & Bumps
Skin tumours are incredibly common, and most dogs will have one during their lifespan. They can range from tiny skin tags to aggressive life-threatening masses. For this reason, it is important to get any new lumps checked with the vet, so they can be assessed.
International Adoption
There has been a rise in the popularity in the UK for rescue charities to import street dogs from outside the UK from places like Spain and Bulgaria
Alabama Rot
Alabama Rot is a disease that affects dogs of all ages and breeds. The cause of it is unknown but if not treated early it can result in fatal kidney disease.
Pet passports
Pet passports were first introduced to enable people to take their dogs in and out of the UK without the need for quarantine
A salute to service dogs in dangerous jobs
Dogs are often thought of as lovable pets, and let’s face it, they are. Man’s best friend also serves a pivotal role in our military in combat areas as well as having roles in the police force.
Sticks
Dogs love to carry, catch or chew sticks and often actively search out a stick when on a walk. Most of the time this is harmless fun but stick injuries in dogs can be very serious.
Report concerns about a dangerous dog
It is every dog owner’s legal responsibility to keep their dog under proper control. Regardless of whether it is on public or private property, it is a criminal offence for a person to allow a dog to be dangerously out of control. This applies to the dog owner, or the person in control of the dog at that time.
Fleas
Fleas can be a problem all year round due to central heating but often become more noticeable during the summer months.
What to consider before getting a dog?
There are many ways to acquire a new dog. Re-homing is the best one, but we recognise that sometimes people have their hearts set on a new puppy. However, it's very important to know what to look for when buying one, and the questions you need to ask when you meet the puppy, and the breeder.
Ticks
Spring is the start of tick season and they thrive as the weather turns milder and moist. They are especially prevalent in areas where sheep and deer graze. Ticks live in thick undergrowth and wait to hop onto dogs as they pass by.
Who are the RSPCA, and why are they so important?
The RSPCA stands for the Royal Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals and they have been established since 1824. The RSPCA is a registered charity in England and Wales.
Chocolate
With Easter fast approaching it’s a good idea to highlight the dangers of chocolate ingestion in dogs.
Dogs in the workplace
Dog friendly work places are very popular in today’s modern culture. Ben & Jerry’s, Amazon, Google and Etsy are among some of the largest companies that encourage and allow their staff to bring their dogs to work. In America a recent study by the American Pet Products Association (APPA) concluded that 17% of companies had dog and pet friendly workplaces.
Microchipping
As from April 2016 it became a legal requirement that all dogs over 8 weeks of age must be microchipped and the details registered to an authorised commercial database.
Puppy Socialisation
Puppies are mostly obtained by their new owners around the age of 8 weeks.
Top 10 breeds of puppy dogs bought for Christmas
Why not take a look at the top 10 breeds purchased over the festive period
So, what makes a great Vet?
A good vet should and will almost always be held in the highest regard by both pet owners and animal lovers alike. They provide the beloved animals of the world with essential preventative and emergency care, helping keeping them safe and sound.
Best gifts for Dogs this Christmas
It’s that time of year again and you’ve probably started wondering what to get your four-legged friend for Christmas this year.
Best Dog Food Option - Dry vs Wet
So, you need to decide on the best option for pet food for your dog. Which one do you go for - Wet or Dry?
Fireworks
With autumn upon us, we need to think about that time of year when many dog owners dread-fireworks night. Except in many cases, it’s not only a night but can last a fortnight and be a very stressful period for both dog and owner.
What Makes A Good Puppy & Dog Class?
So, you've decided to get a puppy. What about puppy & dog classes? Are there any advantages in these, let's take a look...
Senior Pets
The age at which canines become senior varies a lot according to breed. An 8 year old Yorkshire Terrier would be considered to be a fairly young dog but an 8 year old Great Dane would certainly fit into the senior category.
TV shows About Dogs
So when the day is nearly over and you and your best friend retire to watch some television, what are the best dog shows out there?
Teeth Care
The gold standard is to brush your dog’s teeth daily, just as we do, but unless you start this as a puppy it can be very difficult to introduce to an older dog.
How to keep your best friends safe this summer
When it comes to the weather, the Great British weather is one of the most unpredictable, one day it's raining, the next it's a heat wave!
Who are DogLost?
DogLost helps reunite dogs with their owners. Started in 2003, after the founder Jayne Hayes lost her Frenchie, it has assisted over 80,000 owners be reunited with their pets. It is the UK's largest lost and found dog service and best of all they are free!
Be safe and keep your dog on a lead during lambing season
Each year reports that thousands of farm animals are either killed or injured by pet dogs. With this in mind, we decided to put together some useful tips, not only for dog owners but also for farmers.
The importance of controlling your dog in public places
Did you know? If your dog is out of control in either a public place, private residence or even in your own home you are breaking the law.
Pet Insurance - Do you have it?
Pet insurance is something you get to help you protect yourself from unexpected costs that you could face being the owner of a pet.
The Queen, her latest milestone and the royals pet dogs
You may or may not have heard, but on Monday the 6th of February the Queen of England marked an historic occasion by celebrating her Sapphire jubilee. This means she became the first British monarch to reach 65 year on the throne, adding yet another notable milestone to the list.
Unwanted Christmas puppies - Facts and figures from the dog charities
After the charity Dogs Trust had spent the Christmas period caring for a record amount of canine casualties, they are urging the people of Britain to think hard about the commitment of owning a dog
Not Just for Christmas
It’s not just at Christmas, because of the rise in ‘designer’ puppies, it is estimated that 1000’s of puppies a year (almost 200 a day) get smuggled in to the UK
Support your dog charities this Christmas
Christmas time is approaching and soon the season of giving will be upon us. Today we would like to talk about some of the many charities out there that are able to help dogs that come into their care
Go on holiday without having to leave your dogs behind
Ever wanted to go on a short or long break in the UK but couldn’t find anywhere that you could stay which would also let you take your dogs along and even let them stay in the accommodation with you?
Preparing for Winter Walks
Here are some ideas to keep your dog warm and safe in the winter.
Home Boarding or Kennels - Something for everyone, not for everybody!
So you need to leave your dog whilst you go on a holiday or a work trip, what are your options? You have two major choices; a traditional kennel or home dog boarding.
Who is caring for your pet while you are away?
No one likes to leave their beloved dog behind when travelling around but it is often unavoidable and must be done.
The signs of heatstroke and how to treat it
Signs that heatstroke is or has set in and that should not be ignored.
Keep your Best Friends (Dogs) safe this summer
With Britain’s unpredictable weather you never know when a lovely sunny day or heat wave is going to strike, so you must be aware of the dangers heat can do to your beloved pet, how to prevent and treat such things.
Keep your dog on a lead during Lambing Season
It’s that time of the year when pregnant ewes and newborn lambs are in the fields. It is reported that every year thousands of farm animals are injured or killed by pet dogs.
New Micro chipping law for dogs
Across the UK as of April the 6th 2016 there will be a new law being enforced making microchipping your canine compulsory.
Should the kennel club register crossbreeds?
Do you agree that crossbreeds/designer dogs should be classed as the same as purebreds?
Celebration for Home from Home Dog Boarding
This year is going to be our 20th birthday as we've been placing much-loved dogs in carefully selected family homes since 1996.
Dog Boarding at Christmas
An exciting time for all members of the family including your pets, Christmas festivities are just weeks away but with many emotions floating around both in the lead up to and on the day, the changes in routine can often be stressful for the entire family and your dog.
Keep your dog safe while in the dark
Lots of dog owners across the UK will now be walking their pets in the dark. With minimised visibility, there are many ways of making your dog walk in the dark a lot more worry-free.
How to prepare your dog for fireworks
It is getting colder now and at this time of year there is plenty to celebrate with Halloween, Bonfire night, Christmas and New Years all within weeks of each other, it can be a very noisy time of the year too. Many dogs are uncomfortable and scared of loud noises but there are a number of things you can do in order to prepare your dog for fireworks and other loud noises.