Category: General
Your new kitten
I just adopted a new kitten. What is the best veterinary advice on how to care for her from Day 1?
Important things to know about new kitten care
Adopting and bringing home a new kitten is a very exciting time. Everything is brand-new for your kitten and for you too. It may feel a bit overwhelming to start afre...
View Article Administering oral, topical, ear and eye medication to cats and dogs
I need to give my pet medication at home to complete their treatment. How do I administer it?
At some point in every pet’s life, they will need at-home treatment for a chronic or an acute illness, recurring infection, parasite control, wound care, etc. This is why it’s important for every pet parent to k...
View Article Requirements and process of emigrating with pets
I have been offered a great job overseas, but I have pets. What is the process for emigrating with my pets?
If ever there was an occasion to test the bond between pet owner and beloved pet, it’s emigration. Moving overseas is a huge, stressful event that may feel overwhelming and nearly impossible… and that’s b...
View Article Seasonal allergies in pets
My dog is scratching and biting his skin more than usual, sneezing and has watery eyes - and it's only the beginning of the season!
All domestic animals can react to the changes of the season – just like some humans do. During late winter, early springtime, when the climate is dry and windy, there is a lot of dust and pollen in the air. Humans as ...
View Article Sensitivity to anaesthesia
I've heard that certain dog breeds are sensitive to anaesthesia and I'm concerned my dog can't undergo a dental procedure because of this
At some time in their lives, most pets will need to undergo medical procedures that require them to be sedated and placed under anaesthesia. From teeth cleaning procedures, spaying and neutering, to surgical procedures for ...
View Article Heart diseases in dogs
My dog has a strange cough and fatigues easily
It is estimated that a little over 10% of all pets have some form of heart disease. There are many different reasons for the presence of heart disease – from genetics to poor diet, ageing, illness/infection and obesity – but what is common among all types of heart disease is that the ...
View Article Understand the life cycle of fleas
How can I get rid of my pet's fleas once and for all?
Tick and flea treatments for our pets promise quick and lasting results and are usually very effective when administered correctly. However, these treatments – including chews, spot-on liquids and collars – may ...
View Article Veterinary etiquette
What you should know about taking your pet to the vet
If you’ve noticed that your pet’s behaviour is off or they are showing worrying symptoms, don’t hesitate to call the vet and schedule an appointment. However, this is just the first step in your responsi...
View Article Common Rabies Questions
I've heard on the news that there's a new outbreak of rabies in dogs. What are the symptoms and what should I do?
Towards the end of June 2021, the Gauteng Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (GDARD) informed the public of an outbreak of Rabies in the Cradle of Humankind area. Near the end of August 2021, the Western Cape g...
View Article Pet heroism
Who is saving whom? How pets improve our lives
Carey was sitting on the kitchen floor; the low downlights hardly penetrating the shadows reflecting her sombre mood. It had been an incredibly tough year and she was at that point of wondering what it was all for. Her neighbours had moved out, friends were few and far between; there was hardly a...
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