Pets, just like their owners, can get sick or have unexpected accidents from any age. The actual cost of veterinary care can be a surprise to many people - vets provide medical treatment just like your doctor and hospital using their medical skills and the same high tech diagnostic tools however there is no government funded medicare for your pet.

Having pet insurance means you can concentrate on what's best for your pet rather than worrying about the veterinary bills. We think Pet Insurance is so good that we sign all our 'students' at Puppy PreSchool for a 4 week free introductory offer - this is available to all vaccinated and vet checked healthy pups and kittens from 8 weeks of age up to their 1st birthday. Clients can choose to continue the cover after the free period. It is always best to opt for insurance when your pet is fit and well to ensure the best coverage.

Whilst we are great fans of insurance a recent client wanted to contribute to this article. Following an after hours emergency with his dog Cooper, Robb is thankful for the support provided by his insurance company.  Cooper, a very personable 2 year old Jack Russell, arrived on our doorstep in early March after an altercation with a black snake - and he had come off second best. Fortunately for Cooper his owner Robb had taken Pet Insurance for him so the cost of treatment was not an issue.

We asked Robb three questions as his experience may help you decide about pet insurance....

1. What made you take out pet insurance?

- "Accidents happen. People are aware of routine costs of pet healthcare but don't budget for the unexpected."

2. What would you recommend to other pet owners?

- "Take out pet insurance. It is the responsible thing to do and cost is modest - around price of 2 cups of coffee per week. 

- Peace of mind and taking away the stress of financial decisions at a difficult time - it is a very emotional thing to deal with at the time."

3. How has your insurance company helped you?

- "We took up the free 4 week cover when Cooper joined our family in 2012 and converted it to full time cover. We are now claiming in 2014 - it has already paid for itself. 

- Being able to say yes to have all the tests done in Coopers best interest without having to worry about the financial implications."

Thanks Robb for your thoughts. Please contact our reception team if you would like further information on Pet Insurance and how it can help you - 63618388.

Vomiting and diarrhoea. Most people don't want to mention these words, let alone clean it off their carpet!

The truth is, most dogs and cats suffer from either (or both) of these at some point in their life. The most common cause is 'dietary indiscretion' which is just our way of saying your pet ate something he shouldn't!

After withholding food for a few hours (gastric rest), fluids for rehydration and a few days of a bland diet, your pet will most likely recover without a problem.

Occasionally vomiting and diarrhoea can be more serious.  

Here's a guide for when to seek help from us - your pet:

• Has multiple bouts of diarrhoea
• Vomits more than once
  
• Seems lethargic or is off his food
• Has been losing weight recently
• Ingested something he shouldn't

If you have a question or are worried about your furry friend always call us for advice - we can help put your mind to rest, but unfortunately we can't clean your carpet! 

Dogs are born to work for a living.  Most are bred for a particular purpose such as hunting, herding livestock or providing protection.

Our companion dogs are mostly Couch Potatoes! They get their food for free in a bowl and are often confined and inactive for most of the day, contributing to behaviour problems and weight gain.

Many pet owners assume that if a dog has access to a yard, he’s getting enough exercise. WRONG! Dogs don’t run laps by themselves -  it’s the interaction with you that counts!

The amount of exercise your dog needs depends on his breed, size, age and the condition of his health. Arthritis, heart and respiratory conditions can all be exacerbated by incorrect levels of exercise.

As a general rule, dogs need 60 minutes of exercise daily. It is best to split this in to morning and evening sessions.  

Focus on these top tips: 

1. Exercise your dog’s brain. Stimulate them with food puzzle toys, hunting for dinner, obedience and trick training, and chew toys instead of excessive physical exercise

2. Play games that make your dog run around such as fetch with balls or hide-and-seek. We do not recommend hours of repetitive ball chasing - this can wear out your dog's joints

3. Socialise with other dogs - this is a great way to stimulate your dog's mind and help him sleep better at night

Ask us for specific information on exercising your individual dog.