We would like to pay tribute in this edition of our small animal newsletter to a beloved member of our veterinary hospital family. Queenie, a personable retired greyhound, joined our team in 2006. Over the last eight years Queenie helped to save the lives of over 100 of our patients through blood donation. She provided friendship and companionship to Jill and Mister and to all of the staff who loved her - we will miss her very much.

‘You were such a great companion, constant, loyal and true. Our hearts will always wear the paw prints left by you’

Warm summer nights and NYE celebrations almost always involve fireworks at some point. You may enjoy this spectacular light show but for your poor pooch the noise is excruciatingly loud and nerve wracking.  

Follow these top tips to help your dog get through this stressful event:

• Keep your dog indoors during fireworks
• Put him in a room with a television or radio turned up 
• If possible have a family member stay with him during the fireworks
• Keep all windows closed and all exits secure
• Provide a small, dark and safe place for him to retreat - a blanket over a coffee table works well
• Don't inadvertently reward anxious behaviour - otherwise your dog's pattern of behaviour is reinforced
• Make sure your dog is wearing an identification tag and is microchipped - just in case he does escape 

If your dog suffers from severe anxiety speak to us about prescribing a mild sedative to help your dog. This medication MUST be given well before the fireworks get started to be effective, so it's a good idea to check with your local council when fireworks are scheduled in your area.

Speak to one of our friendly staff for more information.

How do you keep your pooch cool this summer? Try some of these easy ideas:

Kongsicle 

Grab a regular Kong toy, seal it at the small end with peanut butter then fill with weak liquid chicken-stock. Freeze it overnight and voila - you have a doggy icy-pole!

Slippery Brick

Half fill an ice-cream container with water and freeze - place a number of broken up treats (liver and kangaroo chews work well) then fill to the top with water and freeze again. You'll have a giant flavoured ice-block that will provide hours of cool entertainment.

Wading pool

Half fill a children's wading pool with water and float in it a few of your dog's favourite toys. 

OR...you could always host a pooch pool party! Click here to see what we are talking about.