Latest Pet News

London Pet Show displays rabbit show jumping

2012-05-15T16:42:04

A new sport known as rabbit show jumping has been showcased at the London Pet Show.

Animal owners run around a course with their bunnies on a lead, encouraging the creatures to leap over a series of fences, the Sun reports.

Many of the hurdles are three times the height of the rabbits, who bound over the structures with ease.

One of the fences appeared to celebrate the forthcoming Olympic Games, with the poles decked out with Union Jack flags in honour of the event.

The sport is said to have originated in Sweden where it is known as kaninhop and has become a popular competition at the pet show.

Other unusual events held at the Earls Court venue included ferret racing and duck herding.

The show was held on May 12th and 13th and it is the second year the show has taken place, with it having to be moved from last year's location in order to make room for more attendants and displays.

Posted by Nick French

Research rescue pets thoroughly, people advised

2012-05-15T16:42:37

It is important to find out about an animal's background before taking on a rescue pet, individuals have been warned.

An advice piece in the Strathspey and Badenoch Herald recommends enquiring about the type of owners and home the animal would benefit from.

Meanwhile, it is vital to find out about their temperament and if they have any behavioural problems, as well as if they are alright to be left home alone.

Asking about how much exercise they need, if the pet is house trained and if they have any special dietary requirements was also recommended.

Doing this can help to avoid any surprises when taking the animal home and limit the chance of the creature being abandoned for a second time.

Families should also think about whether potential pets are fit to be around young children, or if they need to be kept in a home that has a calm and quiet environment.

Written by Mary Goldstein

Children's names popular choices for cats and dogs

2012-05-09T16:52:08

Animal name trends are increasingly falling inline with those chosen for children, according to a pet charity.

Battersea Dogs and Cats Home claims more and more families are opting to call their pooch or moggie after human monikers.

A study by the organisation found Charlie to be the most popular name for male cats and dogs.

Louise Taylor, who is in charge of new arrivals at the rescue centre, commented: "Pets are an integral part of modern families and many people attribute human feelings to their dogs and cats, so it makes sense that we'd give them human names too."

Bella is a common name for female felines and canines, with it ranking second and first respectively.

However, it seems the trend for unusual names remains strong in the US, as Banfield Pet Hospital recently reported Fatty Mcbutterpants to be among the strangest titles it had seen for a dog.

Posted by Mary Goldstein

Lilies are toxic if consumed by cats, expert warns

2012-05-09T16:52:50

Pet owners need to be aware that certain plants and fresh flowers can cause animals to become seriously ill.

This was the warning given by director of the University of Maine Animal Health Laboratory Dr Anne Lichtenwalner, who told WLBZ2.com how some blooms are highly toxic to pets.

The expert described how lilies are particularly dangerous if eaten by felines, as consuming the flower can lead to kidney failure.

"What happens is the cat will chew on the lily, they're very curious and they like plants," Dr Lichtenwalner commented.

She added that although the animal will then "throw up a few times and they may seem fine for a while", there is a real danger of organ damage.

Meanwhile, the pet specialist warned individuals to keep their dogs out of compost piles, as if they eat something toxic they too can suffer kidney failure.

The Dogs Trust has compiled a resource guide outlining poisonous plants, garden and household substances that owners should keep out of reach of their animals, which can be found on the official website.

Posted by Nick French

Dogs and cats 'most popular with people in Wales'

2012-05-09T16:53:25

To mark the end of National Pet Month a new study has been conducted to establish which regions in the UK are home to the most dogs, cats, fish, birds, rabbits, guinea pigs and hamsters.

Data collected by the Pet Food Manufacturers Association shows Wales is top of the chart for the highest number of people who own dogs and cats.

Meanwhile, the east Midlands is home to the most indoor birds and outdoor fish are popular with those living in the south-west.

Rabbits are prolific in the north-west, south-west, Wales and Yorkshire and the Humber, while guinea pigs are most likely to be found in the east of England and the north-east.

Finally, individuals living in the south-west, north-east and Yorkshire and the Humber are fans of the hamster.

National Pet Month ran from April 7th to May 7th and was designed to promote responsible animal ownership and increase awareness of services such as veterinary practices.

Posted by Tina Murphy

Yawning dogs 'are displaying empathy for humans'

2012-05-10T16:48:56

The results of a new study show dogs are compelled to yawn if they hear humans do so, with pets five times more likely to copy the act if the sound is made by their owner.

Karine Silva, who is was the lead researcher at the University of Porto in Portugal, said the findings suggest canines can empathise with individuals.

Scientists recorded the sound of 25 dog owners yawning and played these to the respective pets, along with the sound of one stranger's yawn.

The study showed animals do not have to witness the action in order to copy, but instead this reaction can be triggered by merely hearing the sound.

Joana Bessa, who also worked on the research, said: "The dogs yawned more when they heard humans they knew yawning, like their owners, as opposed to people they didn't know."

When dogs yawn it is usually a sign they are calm and want to display a non-threatening state.

Posted by Nick French

Kidney disease 'common in older cats'

2012-05-10T16:49:24

Individuals that notice their cats have an increased thirst, decreased appetite, vomiting, bad breath, weight loss and increased urination may want to have them tested for kidney disease.

According to the largest veterinary practice in the world Banfield Pet Hospital, one in 12 mature felines suffer from the condition.

While there is no known cause or cure for chronic kidney disease, vets can help ease the pain and prolong quality of life with medication.

Dr Nina Nardi, chief of staff at Banfield's Canoga Park hospital, explained how acute versions of the condition can be caused by eating antifreeze, grapes, lilies or other toxic substances.

In such cases, the professional claimed the sooner it is diagnosed the better, stating: "If you catch it, you can treat it."

The Royal Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals warns pet owners to ensure any antifreeze spillages are cleaned up immediately as these are one of the most common ways cats are poisoned.

Posted by Mary Goldstein

Breathlessness in short-nosed dogs 'should not be ignored'

2012-05-10T16:49:55

Snoring and breathlessness when exercising are symptoms that should not be ignored by the owners of short-nosed dog breeds, it has been claimed.

A new report by the Royal Veterinary College published in the journal Animal Welfare found many people are unaware such characteristics are a sign of the condition brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome (BOAS).

BOAS can prevent dogs from enjoying a good quality of life and owners of Pugs, Pekingese, Bulldogs and French Bulldogs were advised to seek professional advice if they suspect their animal to be a sufferer.

Dr Charlotte Burn, who led the research, said: "Short noses may make dogs look cute ... but the frequent association with breathing difficulties means owners need to be aware this appearance can come with a serious cost to the animal."

According to experts at Willows Veterinary Centre, short-nosed dogs often suffer from BOAS as they have narrow nostrils and an overlong palate.

Posted by Tina Murphy

Groom cats regularly to ensure good health

2012-05-11T16:37:23

Regular grooming and a healthy balanced diet are the best ways to ensure a cat stays fit and well, it has been claimed.

Beth Skillings, clinical veterinary officer at Cats Protection, explained keeping pets happy, feeling secure and not stressed is important for their health.

It was noted a cat's skin and eyes can often reveal whether they are below par or in peak condition.

"Groom your cat regularly, especially if you have a long-haired cat or an older cat with arthritis which may not be able to groom themselves so easily," Ms Skillings recommended.

She also suggested taking them to the vet for checkups and seeking professional advice if animals display ill-health or behavioural issues.

Another tip was to provide cats with a secure home where they can find a private place to hide and not be disturbed.

Cattery Rehomer at Battersea Dogs and Cats Home Ros Davies recently advised people that felines should have meat in their diet as they are not vegetarians.

Posted by Nick French

Vaccines 'can protect against Myxomatosis'

2012-05-11T16:38:25

A new vaccine could help safeguard rabbits against multiple diseases through one single injection, it has been noted.

Writing for the Wells Journal, Shepton Veterinary Group's Martin Law explained how each year thousands of pet bunnies are struck down by Myxomatosis.

The virus is spread between animals via mosquitoes and fleas, with insects able to pass the condition from wild rabbits to domesticated ones.

However, according to Mr Law, the disease is entirely preventable through a vaccine that also protects against Rabbit Haemorrhagic Disease.

The latter is also "endemic" among the UK's wild bunny population, with acute outbreaks causing sudden death.

Describing the symptoms of Myxomatosis, Mr Law said: "Typical signs include swelling of the skin around the eyes, mouth, ears and genitals, a high fever and lack of appetite."

According to the Rabbit Welfare Fund, pet rabbits that live outside are at a greater risk of the condition than those that live indoors.

Posted by Tina Murphy

Pet owners warned about skin cancer in animals

2012-05-14T16:53:54

Humans are not the only ones who can get skin cancer, according to an expert who warned pet owners to be vigilant with their animal's health.

Writing for the Huffington Post, Vetstreet's Dr Ann Hohenhaus explained how dense fur tends to act as a natural sunscreen, but this is not the case for white-coated cats and dogs.

The ears, nose and stomach are the areas most commonly affected by cancer, due to a sparse amount of hair covering these regions.

Owners of Labrador Retrievers, Boxers, Pugs and Golden Retrievers were warned these types of dogs are more likely than others to develop skin tumours.

Dr Hohenhaus said: "Any pet owner should be concerned about raised, hairless, pinkish-yellow masses, which could be mast cell tumours."

Ensuring dogs and cats are wearing suncream can help protect sensitive areas, while monitoring the amount of time they spend lay in the sun is also wise.

Posted by Tina Murphy

Tips on pet-proofing homes

2012-05-14T16:54:19

Keeping potentially dangerous household items out of a pet's reach is important to ensure their safety around the home.

This is according to pet lifestyle expert Sandy Robins, who told Fox News that many animals are inquisitive and this can mean everyday items become hazardous.

Chemicals, medications and cleaning supplies should all be kept on a high shelf or in cabinets with childproof locks, the specialist stated.

Keeping toilet lids closed and rubbish bins covered was also advised, while checking dryers and washing machines before activating them is very important in case kittens jump inside.

Ms Robins also warned against placing lit candles on top of material, stating: "A cat may attempt to climb up the tablecloth and bring the burning candles to the floor, creating a fire hazard for the entire household."

Keeping chocolates away may also be a wise idea, as this sweet treat is toxic and potentially deadly for dogs.

Posted by Nick French

Dancing dog Pudsey wins Britain's Got Talent

2012-05-14T16:55:04

Members of the public have voted a dog to the number one spot in the hit TV show Britain's Got Talent.

Ashleigh Butler and her beloved pet Pudsey danced their way to £500,000 prize money and the chance to appear at the Royal Variety Performance.

Having impressed the crowd and judges during the audition stages, the 17-year-old and her pooch sailed through to the live shows.

After surviving the semi-finals and making it into the last few acts, the duo performed a new routine to the Mission Impossible theme tune.

With a host of tricks and jumps, which included Pudsey walking on his hind legs and riding on his owner's back, the pair even managed to wow music mogul Simon Cowell.

Talking after the final, Cowell stated: "My life's work is now complete."

He added that Ms Butler and Pudsey's performance was particularly impressive in terms of how much they learnt in such a short space of time.

Posted by Mary Goldstein

Poll finds 2 in 5 pet owners take animals on holiday

2012-05-08T16:42:46

New research has revealed two in five pet owners take their animals on holiday with them, with many claiming they prefer their company to that of family members.

TravelSupermarket conducted a poll that found 13 per cent of people would choose their pet over their partner when looking for a vacation partner, the Press Association reports.

Meanwhile, ten per cent would rather take their animal away with them instead of their children.

Bob Atkinson of TravelSupermarket said: "We all know that Brits love their pets and this research has found that many pet-owners are happy to admit we actually miss our furry friends more than we miss immediate family."

The study also revealed 47 per cent of those who travel without their animal missed them the most out of anyone or anything.

Before departing on holiday with a pet, dog owners should ensure their animals are restrained when travelling in a vehicle, according to president of US pet product company Kurgo Gordie Spater.

Posted by Tina Murphy

Pet owners using Skype to check on animals

2012-05-08T16:43:33

An increasing number of pet owners are turning to the web to keep an eye on their animals while they are at work.

Tools such as Skype allow individuals to check on their dogs from their desk, with automatic settings meaning webcams activate as workers dial in, the Daily Mail reports.

The trend is said to be particularly popular in the US and may become more commonplace in the UK, as more and more people invest in smartphones and tablets, which allow them to connect while on the go.

However, experts have warned animal lovers that not all pets will benefit from Skype face time, as being able to view their owners online may distress them.

Dog expert and broadcaster Anna Webb said: "Dogs make sense of their world through smell so if they can hear you but not smell you it might confuse them."

Skype is an online communication tool that offers those separated by distance a simple way to view and talk to one another for free.

Posted by Mary Goldstein

Dogs 'should never ride on drivers' laps'

2012-05-04T16:47:01

Dogs should never be allowed to ride on their owner's lap when they are driving as this can lead to a series of dangerous outcomes.

This is according to president of US pet product company Kurgo Gordie Spater, who told Truck Trend animals that are unrestrained can act as a distraction.

It was noted that not only could the dog cause an accident, it could be severely injured by being thrown from the vehicle or if it is hit by an airbag.

"These problems are easy to avoid with a harness or booster seat, which will improve the quality of the trip for the dog and the owner," Mr Spater commented.

Meanwhile, Lisa-Marie Mulkern, marketing and communications director for HandicappedPets.com, explained how ensuring a pooch is restrained can help to prevent them from running away from the scene of an incident and becoming a traffic hazard.

The comments follow those of Christina Selter from Bark Buckle Up, who recently told WLKY.com TV that a large dog could cause serious injuries to a driver or passenger if they are involved in an accident.

Posted by Nick French

Always buy high quality pet food, owners advised

2012-05-04T12:23:01

Cat owners have been told to buy the highest quality pet food they can afford for their animals.

Ros Davies, cattery rehomer at Battersea Dogs & Cats Home in London, pointed out that cats are obligate carnivores, which means it is essential they have meat in their diet.

It contains an organic acid called taurine, which they need to keep their digestive systems working properly, she explained.

Ms Davies also said cats do not naturally drink a lot of water and can be prone to kidney problems later in life because of this.

To tackle the problem, she recommended using water from a source other than the kitchen tap - such as the bathroom - and placing a bowl of water somewhere in the house away from the pet's food.

"You may well find that your cat prefers to drink from this source, rather than the bowl near their food," Ms Davies stated.

She also warned owners never to give their moggies cows' milk, as it is too rich and can cause stomach problems.

If cats start gaining too much weight people can put them on a diet, although clinical veterinary officer at Cat's Protection Beth Skillings told them to seek advice from a vet first, as this can be dangerous.

Posted by Nick French

Itching and fur loss could be caused by fox mange

2012-05-03T16:46:16

There can be a number of reasons why dogs experience itching and fur loss, with pet owners advised to visit their vet if they notice changes in their animal's coat.

Writing for the Metro, vet Joe Inglis explained how once fleas have been ruled out, it is important to check whether sarcoptic, which is also known as fox mange, is to blame.

Talking to a professional will help people to determine what appears to be causing the problem, with the expert suggesting an alternative reason for fur loss could be an allergy.

"The most common type of allergy is known as atopy – where the dog reacts to airborne allergens such as pollens and house dust mites," Mr Inglis remarked.

It was noted that vets will be able to perform tests to determine the root of the problem and then offer treatment options.

Fox mange is named as such as it is commonly found in foxes, with the wild creatures often showing extreme reactions as they are not as widely treated with medication as pets.

Posted by Tina Murphy

Consider flood evacuation plans for pets, expert advises

2012-05-02T16:47:46

Pet owners have been urged to think about what they would do if they were forced to evacuate their home due to flooding.

According to the Rutland and Stamford Mercury, animal charity Blue Cross has appealed to individuals in areas affected by the recent heavy rainfall to plan ahead.

Animal behaviourist at the organisation Claire Stallard said: "When floods strike, please think of your pets, who can become easily lost, trapped or disorientated in extreme conditions."

The expert claimed that while people should never put themselves in a dangerous situation, pets rely on their owners for protection and rescue.

Ms Stallard's comments follow recent severe weather warnings by the Met Office and reports of flooding across parts of the UK.

In order to make evacuating pets easier, the animal specialist recommended keeping carriers close to hand and relocating baskets or hutches to the upper level of a home.

Posted by Nick French

Tips on how to stop cats biting

2012-05-02T16:48:24

Keeping cats entertained with toys and giving clear disapproving signals can help to stop a pet from biting.

This is according to cat behaviour consultant Guadalupe Bermejo, who explained in an article for the Montreal Gazette how to discourage such conduct.

It was suggested that moggies need at least five minutes of play twice a day in order to keep them distracted and to satisfy their craving for interaction.

However, if a cat goes to bite, individuals are advised to disengage and say 'no' or 'ouch' before leaving the room.

Another tip was to introduce scheduled feeding times and turn this into a game by leaving dry food in various places around the house, which the expert claimed will help to "activate his prey drive".

To avoid being bitten when stroking a pet, individuals should look out for warning signs such as a change in body language, with a rhythmic flick of the tail, flattened ears and turning to stare all indicators.

Posted by Mary Goldstein