BBC Rogue Traders 'Puppy Farmers'

Rogue Traders on Feb 19th raised the issue of Puppy Farmers.
Nothing mentioned surprised me at all.
In fact the Whelan's were mentioned as being puppy farmers and importing dogs illegally from Ireland- I mention them in a previous blog entry last year because a client of mine had purchased a puppy from them who was docked against her knowledge.
At least the programme high-lighted a very important point- when buying a puppy you MUST see him or her with their mother.
My ebook 'Puppy Power' contains lots of information about puppy farms and how to avoid them and how to ensure you purchase a healthy puppy from a reputable source.
Remember that the power to STOP puppy farmers lies with the purchaser. So if you want a puppy, make sure you are properly informed BEFORE you buy. Rescue centers may also have puppies to adopt that have been health checked and vaccinated already.

Compulsory Microchipping of Dogs

I have just come across this petition, which I have now signed, to urge the government to make microchipping of all dogs COMPULSORY- a brilliant idea!
Check out the petition and sign up yourself!
Microchipping is quick and easy! It's a brilliant, permanent form of identification for your dog (or cat or rabbit or tortoise).
It is such a relief to find a microchip if an animal is brought into the surgery as a stray because we can quickly identify and contact the owner by reading the microchip.
The only potential problem that I've faced, is having out-of-date details registered for an owner with the microchip details SO remember to keep your details updated!

Saying Goodbye to a Beloved Pet

I'm at home this week, enjoying playing in the snow and being at home because I've been working away for the last two months.
In my last job I met a lovely Persian cat called Dusty who is owned by a very loving, caring lady who adores Dusty. Unfortunately Dusty has chronic kidney failure due to a condition that affects Persian cats called 'polycystic kidney disease'. I have prescribed all the medication and dietary changes possible to help improve the functioning of Dusty's kidneys.
Sadly Dusty's owner has emailed me today worrying that she will have to have Dusty euthanased (put to sleep) in the next few days and sad that I won't be there with her in those last moments.
It is very difficult to help clients come to terms with making such difficult decisions, especially when not there in person.
What I do know is that euthanasing a beloved pet is not a decision that owners make lightly.
I always advise that the pet's QUALITY of life is much more important than the quantity of their life. When animals have chronic illnesses that can't be cured, it is always best to say goodbye to them before they deteriorate too much and whilst they still have some dignity and enjoyment. Of course the vet looking after them will be able to help make the decision when the time comes.
Saying goodbye is the worst part of owning a pet. However the joys, love and fun that you share with your pet over the years, far outweigh the difficult time at the end.
I will be working from home for the rest of the week....
Enjoy yourselves, whatever the weather!