Year: 2021

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Exercising your dog in winter

exercising you dog in winter

Some dogs love winter walks, but exercising your dog in winter can be challenging for some pet owners due to cold temperatures.

Despite the cold weather, it’s important to maintain an exercise routine for your dog to keep them happy and healthy. During the winter months, joint stiffness in pets can appear more prominent. Regularly exercising your dog in winter helps to keep joints mobile as well as preventing any weight gain which can add pressure to joints.

To help keep your pooch moving, we share some tips for exercising your dog in winter months:

Walking your dog in cold weather

If your pooch is still happy to head out on winter walks, be sure to wrap up warm and if needed use a doggy coat to keep them cosy. On darker nights and morning, also be sure to wear bright or reflective clothing and walk your dog in well-lit areas. Avoid icy roads and pavements and clean your dog’s paws when you get home to remove and ice, salt or grit which may cause irritation.

Indoor games

If it’s too cold outside for your four-legged friend, there are some indoor games you could try to get them moving, which include:

Tug of war – get your dog a tug of war rope to enjoy a good game with them. If you have more than one dog, you could let them play together. However, be sure to keep an eye on them, as this type of game could encourage aggression.

Fetch – if you have enough space in your home set up an area to play fetch. Make sure it’s on carpeted floors as hard wood floors could cause your dog to slip and get injured. To prevent repetition, throw different objects for them to fetch and return.

Hide and seek– tell your dog to wait somewhere while you hide in the house. Then shout for them to come and find you. You may need someone else to stay with your dog while you go and find a hiding spot. Alternatively, you could hide a toy or their favourite treat somewhere in the home for them to sniff out.

Brain games – interactive brain games are a great way to keep your pet’s brain active as well as maintain their physical activity. Try hiding a treat under a cup and mix it up with other empty cups and get your pooch to try and pick the right one to get the treat.

Indoor obstacle course

If you have the space to do so, it’s possible to create a small obstacle course for your pooch in the home. All you need is a few cones and some items for your dog to jump over.

Hydrotherapy / Swimming

Swimming is a great form of exercise for dogs as it’s low impact, which is kinder on their joints. In winter months, it’s not advised to take your dog swimming outdoors, but you could book them into a hydrotherapy session with a qualified trainer at an indoor pool. This will help to ensure your dog gets some much-needed exercise, as well as soothing their stiff joints.

Training classes

Indoor training or agility classes are a great way of exercising your dog in winter, as well as allowing them to socialise with other dogs and boost their brain health.

Some breeds of dog may need more exercise than others. If you are unsure what exercise is best suited for your pooch, speak to your vet who is best placed to offer advice depending on your pets age and breed.

To help maintain your pet’s joints throughout the winter months, ask your vet about Nutraquin+, a fast-acting support for joints and mobility for dogs and cats.

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Top tips to keep pets calm during the fireworks

Top tips to keep pets calm during the fireworks

Fireworks season is a stressful time for pets, with sporadic bangs going off, we share some top tips to keep pets calm during the fireworks.

With many events being held on different nights, fireworks season can last right up until New Year so it’s important to be prepared with our top tips to keep pets calm during the fireworks and help reduce any stress from the loud noises.

For pets that are affected by loud noises, they may display their anxiety in a number of ways, including shaking or hiding, vocalisation, ears pinned back, reduced appetite and some pets can become aggressive.

To help reduce stress, here are some top tips to keep pets calm during the fireworks:

Provide a safe space

Give your pet somewhere safe to go and hide should they become anxious from the loud bangs. This can be an enclosed crate, table or cupboard near the centre of the home, or where they have previously hidden. You could cover the sides and top to make it comfortable and even add some of your clothing that will smell familiar to them. Let them come and go as they please.

Stay calm yourself

One of our top tips to keep pets calm during the fireworks, is to try and stay calm yourself and don’t react to any loud bangs, as your pet will react to you. Try not to worry and don’t get angry with your pet or over fuss them, just reassure them gently and be as normal and routine as possible.

Keep pets indoors

Keep all pets indoors during the fireworks. For cats who like to go outside, make sure you place plenty of litter trays around the house, especially by usual exit points. Make sure your dog has had an opportunity to go to the toilet before it gets dark. Also, don’t walk your dog during the fireworks, take them out in the late afternoon if possible. If they get spooked by fireworks while out, they may run off.

Reduce the noise

Muffle the sounds of the fireworks outside, by closing the windows and curtain. Put the TV or radio on to drown out their sound, especially if animals are left home alone. If you do have to leave your pet alone during the fireworks, ask a friend of family member to check on them.

Distractions

Provide your pet with plenty of toys to distract them from the noise. Ignore the fireworks yourself and play with your pet, but don’t force them to play if they don’t seem interested and prefer to be left alone.

Stick to normal routines

Feed and walk your pet at the same time as normal, if possible. Any changes in their usual routine can lead to further stress or anxiety.

Comfort your pet

Sit close to your pet and stroke them to try and keep them calm. Physical contact could help to make them feel safe and reduce their anxiety. But don’t force them, if they prefer to go off on their own and hide, let them and just check on them now and again, to make sure they are ok.

Don’t punish your pet

If they misbehave or do something out of the ordinary due to stress, don’t punish them. This is a reaction to how they feel in a situation and shouting at them could lead to further stress.

Prepare in advance

If possible, find out when firework events will be taking place in your area so you can plan ahead. Speak to neighbours and ask if they will be letting them off in their gardens. Make them aware that you have an anxious pet. Being prepared could lead to a less stressful evening for you and your pet.

Use a natural calming support

Ask your vet about Nutracalm, which is specially formulated to calm pets fast, without any sedative effect. Nutracalm is recommended by hundreds of vets throughout the UK & Ireland has been designed to aid a quick natural response once taken, with results often evident within 1 hour of taking the capsule.

 

 

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How to clean dogs teeth

How to clean dogs teeth

It’s important to know how to clean dogs teeth as to help maintain their dental care and  provide optimum health and quality of life.

Dogs use their mouths for more than just eating, they use them to play, explore and taste a lot of their surroundings too. If your dog’s teeth aren’t properly cared for, it can cause problems, such as plaque build-up and gum disease.

A dog’s gums should be a healthy pink colour (with no redness or bleeding where the gums meet the teeth) and their teeth should be white and clean. Introducing dental care to your dog from a young age will help them get used to the routine.

Signs of problems with your dogs teeth include:

  • Discoloured teeth/plaque & tartar build-up
  • Bad breath
  • Drooling
  • Discomfort
  • Damaged gums and bleeding
  • Reduced appetite or weight loss

What to remember when cleaning dogs teeth

Brushing your dogs teeth daily can help to avoid dental problems. Ideally you should introduce them to teeth brushing and general dental care at a young age, however it’s still possible to train older dogs to get used to having their teeth touched.

Here are some tips to help clean dogs teeth:

  • Be patient and get them used to having their teeth cleaned over a few weeks. Let them taste their new dog safe toothpaste so they think of brushing their teeth as a treat not a chore.
  • You can help to get your dog used to having their mouth touched by gently rubbing a soft cloth along their gums. Gradually move on by using a brush that fits over your finger. This will help to get your dog used to the feeling of their teeth being brushed.
  • When your dog is ready, use a proper dog toothbrush with a longer handle, which will help you reach all of their teeth.
  • After each session reward your dog with a treat or praise and be sure to follow this same routine to get your dog comfortable with teeth brushing.
  • Make sure you use a toothpaste specifically for dogs, never use human toothpaste which is toxic to dogs.

Natural plaque remover for dogs

As well as daily brushing, use a natural plaque remover for dogs such as Nutraplaque, which is 100% natural sprinkle capsule that provides an advanced double action formula to help aid oral health and hygiene by systematically working against bad breath, tartar and plaque for healthy teeth and gums.

Nutraplaque is recommended by thousands of vets throughout the UK and Ireland as advanced support for healthy teeth, gums and breath odour in dogs and cats.

If you’re worried about your dog’s teeth, speak to your vet as they are best placed to monitor your pet and offer advice.

 

 

 

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Cleaning cat teeth

Cleaning cat teeth

Cleaning cat teeth and maintaining good oral health is likely to improve the quality of their life.

Cleaning cat teeth from an early age can help to prevent any problems. Cats are good at hiding signs of discomfort and pain and it can be difficult as their owner to know there is even a problem with their teeth.

A healthy cat’s teeth should be clean, white and free of any chipping. Their gums shouldn’t have any sores or lesions and should be pink and healthy without any redness, swelling or bleeding.

Signs of cat teeth problems include:

  • Reduced grooming activity
  • Discoloured teeth/ plaque & tartar build-up
  • Bad breath
  • Drooling
  • Discomfort
  • Pawing at mouth
  • Bleeding gums
  • Reduced appetite or weight loss

Kittens have 26 baby teeth, which are then replaced by 30 adult teeth by the age of six months. Cats use their teeth for catching prey and chewing food, as well as to defend themselves against other cats.

How to clean cat teeth

Brushing your cat’s teeth is a great way to avoid dental disease. Ideally you should introduce dental care from a young age, to get them used to having their teeth touched.

Here are some tips on how to clean cat teeth:

  • Ask your vet for advice on how to brush your cat’s teeth correctly.
  • Buy a specialised toothpaste for your cat. Never use human toothpaste.
  • Begin by putting your cat’s toothpaste on your finger and offering it to them to lick.
  • Be sure to buy a toothbrush that is designed for cats.
  • Choose a time of day you can stick to in order to make teeth brushing a part of your cat’s normal routine. Make sure you are calm and comfortable.
  • Slowly and gently pull back your cat’s lips and touch their teeth with the toothbrush, initially before soothing your cat. Repeat this daily for several days before starting to brush their teeth. Only start brushing when they are comfortable.
  • To brush their teeth, apply the bristles to the teeth at a 45-degree angle, reaching both the tooth surface and just beneath the gum margin.

Natural cat teeth plaque remover

Consider using a like Nutraplaque which is a completely natural sprinkle capsule that provides an advanced double action formula to help aid oral health and hygiene by systematically working against bad breath, tartar and plaque for healthy teeth and gums.

Nutraplaque is recommended by thousands of vets throughout the UK and Ireland as advanced support for healthy teeth, gums and breath odour in dogs and cats.

 

 

 

 

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What is dog plaque?

what is dog plaque

Dog plaque is a common concern and reason for pet owners to visit their vet.

Oral hygiene is an important part of dogs’ overall health and wellbeing. If your pet’s teeth aren’t kept clean, they can become coated in plaque, which may lead to dental problems.

Plaque is a sticky film of bacteria that constantly forms on teeth. Bacteria in plaque produce acids after you eat or drink. These acids can destroy both enamel and cause cavities and gingivitis (gum disease). Plaque can also develop under the gums on tooth roots and break down the bones that support teeth.

Plaque is a colourless to pale yellow and when it is colourless it can be harder to detect, so it’s important to maintain dog dental care.

What causes dog plaque?

Plaque develops when foods containing carbohydrates (sugars and starch) are frequently left on the teeth. Bacteria that live in the mouth thrive on these foods, producing acids as a result. If the bacteria deposits from plaque on teeth aren’t removed through regular brushing, they can cause problems and tartar build up.

What is the difference between plaque and tartar on dog’s teeth?

Plaque is a soft, clear or yellow film of bacteria that can be removed by brushing dog’s teeth. If plaque sits on teeth too long, it hardens to create tartar, which usually has a darker colour.

There is a misconception that only a veterinary professional can remove tartar on dogs teeth, however Nutraplaque is a 100% natural plaque and tartar remover which provides an advanced double action to help aid oral health and hygiene.

Common signs of dog teeth plaque include:

  • Inflamed gums
  • Discoloured teeth
  • Loss of teeth
  • Bad breath
  • Pus inside the mouth

Certain breeds are more prone to dog plaque. Small dogs and toy breeds tend to be most likely to develop dental issues. This is because small breeds have smaller mouths, which means they tend to be at a higher risk of overcrowding.

Overcrowding can damage teeth in your dog’s mouth and lead to more plaque or other dental conditions. Another disadvantage of having a small mouth is that dog tooth plaque and tartar tends to build up quickly. This excess build-up of tartar can lead to more serious dental problems.

If you are worried about your dog’s teeth, speak to your vet who can monitor and is best placed to offer advice.

 

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How to get plaque off dogs teeth

How to get plaque off dogs teeth

Knowing how to get plaque of dogs teeth can help you as an owner to maintain your pet’s oral health and reduce problems.

Plaque, tartar and gum inflammation are very common in pets and among the most frequent concerns seen by vets. Maintaining dental care and reducing plaque on dogs teeth is necessary to provide optimum health and quality of life. If their teeth are not properly cared for it could cause problems.

What is dog tooth plaque?

Plaque is a type of bacteria that lives in your dog’s mouth. These bacteria give off a type of acid which eats into the surface of your dog’s teeth. Over time this can cause painful cavities, gum problems and might mean that your dog loses some of their teeth.

Dog dental care is crucial, if your dog’s teeth are not regularly cleaned the plaque will build up and turn into tartar. Tartar has a solid, brown, gritty look and feel and can lead to inflammation and tenderness which is no fun for your dog or cat to contend with while trying to eat.

How to brush a dog’s teeth?

Prevention is always better than cure. It’s important to know how to brush a dog’s teeth and to start brushing them daily with a special dog toothbrush and toothpaste. Don’t use human toothpaste, as this contains chemicals that can be toxic to dogs.

It’s a good idea to start brushing your dog’s teeth when they are young, as they can get used to it as part of their routine. It’s never too late to start though and older dogs will soon get used to having their teeth brushed.

Take things slowly and get them used to having their teeth cleaned over a few weeks. Let them taste their new dog safe toothpaste so they think of brushing their teeth as a treat not a chore.

You can help to get your dog used to having their mouth touched by gently rubbing a soft cloth along their gums. Gradually move on by using a brush that fits over your finger. This will help to get your dog used to the feeling of their teeth being brushed.

When your dog is comfortable and ready, use a proper dog toothbrush with a longer handle, which will help you reach all of their teeth.

Natural dog plaque remover

Nutraplaque is a 100% natural plaque remover for dogs and cats. It provides an advanced double action formula to help aid oral health and hygiene by systemically working against bad breath, tartar & plaque for healthy teeth and gums.

The unique double action formula of Nutraplaque combines to support optimal oral health by reducing plaque build-up, and bad breath.

 

 

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How to calm a scared cat

scared cat

A scared cat is often hard to spot as cats are notoriously independent and it can be difficult to tell that something is wrong with them.

Depending on their environment cats can become scared or fearful due to a number of reasons. If you have a scared cat it can be worrying for you as their owner, but it’s important to understand your pet’s behaviour and reasons behind their fear. Although each cat is different, they tend to exhibit some tell-tale behaviours when they are scared or stressed.

There can be many reasons for your cat to be scared or nervous, which include:

  • New or unfamiliar people
  • Other cats
  • Loud noises/fireworks
  • Dogs or other predators
  • Changes to or in their environment

Signs of a scared cat can be freezing in place, running away, hiding, hissing or snarling, or arching their back and puffing their fur. If they are particularly scared or anxious, they also become aggressive and scratch or bite.

If you have a scared or anxious cat, they could develop a urinary tract problem, which can develop due to stress and cause pain, blood in the urine or even lead to blockages in the bladder.

Tips to help to calm a scared cat:

Find out what’s causing the fear

Try to find out the reason behind your cat’s fear. This could help with how to handle it. Every cat is different, and anything could be making your cat nervous. For some fears the signs will be obvious, but for others it could be harder to identify.

Give a scared cat space

If your cat seems scared or anxious leave them be and give them space. Following your cat around could lead to further stress. Let them come to you if they want to. Create a safe one for them to go to should they need it.

Scratching posts

Make sure you have plenty of these around the home for your cat to use. This will help your cat to relieve stress and stop them from scratching at furniture or carpets.

Always stay calm

Cats will often pick up if you’re afraid or stressed, so trying to stay calm is really important. If they are showing signs of stress, if you stay calm his will help them feel more at ease.

Try to stick to routines

Most cats love routine as it means they can predict what’s going to happen next. If possible, be sure to feed them and let them out at the same time each day.

Introduce new things slowly

Sometimes change can scare your cat, especially if they aren’t prepared and they find something new in the home which they feel they can’t get away from. If you’re making any changes to your home, try to make it a gradual change if possible. Always make sure your cat has somewhere they can go to get away from new things if they are feeling scared.

Avoid or reduce the things that scare them

If it’s possible to avoid or reduce the cause of their fears, this will often help to stop their fear getting worse. If your cat is scared of something they come across while outside, it might be best to keep them indoors for part of the day. They might even be happier staying at home all the time, especially if this means you can keep them from what is scaring them. If they seem to be more stressed indoors, make sure they have an easy way to get in and out as they choose.

Try a calming supplement

Nutracalm is specially formulated to naturally calm anxious and nervous cats and help to reduce unwanted and unruly behaviour. Nutracalm is a fast-acting natural calming supplement and has been designed to aid a quick natural response once taken.

If you are looking for calming tablets for nervous cats, then Nutracalm is highly recommended by vets throughout the UK and Ireland.

If you are worried about your cat and their behaviour, you should consult your vet, who is best placed to offer advice with regards to your pet’s health.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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Ascophyllum nodosum for dogs and cats

Ascophyllum nodosum for dogs and cats

Ascophyllum nodosum is commonly used in dental care for dogs and cats.

Seaweed is good for the teeth due to an enzyme known as Bacillus licheniformis. The enzyme works to protect against tooth decay by stripping bacteria away from plaque.

Ascophyllum nodosum is a large, common cold-water seaweed or brown alga in the Fucaceae family and is the only species in the genus Ascophyllum. It grows as a seaweed in the north Atlantic Ocean and is also know in localities as feamainn bhui, rockweed, Norwegian kelp, knotted kelp, knotted wrack or egg wrack.

Seaweed for dogs and cats

Adding a seaweed supplement to your pet’s dinner each night can help to reduce the amount of plaque that can build up on their teeth. Seaweed contains Ascophyllum nodosum; a species of kelp which helps to keep your pet’s teeth clean and reduce bad breath in a natural way.

Ascophyllum nodosum is a special source of brown seaweed selected for its ability to reduce plaque, tartar and bad breath. It contains bio-actives such as Fucoidans and Polyphenols which are systemically absorbed into the body tissues and are clinically proven to reduce oral plaque and improve gum and teeth health.

Seaweed is one of the most nutrient-dense and environmentally sustainable crops on the planet. In addition to being one of the richest sources of minerals and protein (amino acids), seaweed also possesses a range of health benefits including anti-inflammatory activity and can produce thicker shinier coats, enhanced immunity and energy, as well as improved digestion.

Seaweeds are also a great source of Omega-3 fatty acids, including a linolenic acid (an Omega-3 fatty acid that dogs need).

If you’re looking for a Ascophyllum nodosum supplement for dogs and cats, Nutraplaque is recommended by thousands of vets throughout the UK & Ireland. The specially selected Norwegian Seaweed in Nutraplaque has been shown to reduce plaque by up to 35% after the first 8 weeks.

Nutraplaque is a completely natural product that provides an advanced double action formula to help aid oral health and hygiene by systemically working against bad breath, tartar and plaque for healthy teeth and gums.

 

 

 

 

 

 

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Common signs your pet needs oral health support

Common signs your pet needs oral health support

There are some common signs your pet needs oral health support and many animals are at a higher risk of dental problems as they age.

Caring for your pet’s teeth and gums isn’t that different from looking after your own oral health and by following the common signs your pet needs oral health support can help. By the age of three, 80% of dogs and 70% of cats have developed some form of periodontal disease.

Maintaining your pet’s dental care is necessary to provide optimum health and quality of life. Common signs your pet needs oral health support include:

Bad breath

If you dog or cat’s breath smells particularly bad, this could be a sign that they have gum disease, which needs treating. Untreated gum disease can damage your pet’s teeth and jaws over time and is one of the major causes of tooth loss. Infections caused by gum disease have been linked with diseases of the heart, liver and kidneys, so you should talk to your vet if you notice any unusual odours.

Changes in eating habits

Any sudden change in your pet’s appetite is a cause for concern, particularly when they don’t want to eat their regular food. Along with wider health concerns, symptoms of gum disease might cause a dog or cat to stop eating or chewing.

If there has been no change to your pet’s diet, you should speak to your vet so they can rule out other causes of concern.

Yellow or brown teeth

If you notice yellow or brown stains on your pet’s teeth, especially around the gums, there is a good chance this is dental plaque. Brushing your dog or cat’s teeth with special toothpaste and adding a dental supplement to their food can help to prevent the build-up of plaque.

Existing plaque or tartar may need to be carefully removed by a vet to reduce the risk of your pet getting tooth decay.

Swollen or bleeding gums

Inflamed or bleeding gums can be a sign that your pet has gum disease or another infection, which can cause discomfort.

Excessive drooling

For some dog owners, drool is just a part of life and some breeds of dogs naturally drool more than others. However, if your dog starts drooling more than normal it could mean they have a health problem, that’s causing them to produce more saliva or is preventing them from swallowing saliva like normal.

This could indicate a variety of dental problems, including gum disease, loose teeth or a dental abscess caused by bacteria or an injury.

Pawing at their mouth

Is your dog or cat scratching constantly licking parts of their mouth, this could be a sign of teething or a more serious issue like dental pain. If your pet will let you, check their teeth and gums for anything that could be bothering them, such as bits of food or other things they might have been chewing.

 

If you are worried about your pet oral health teeth, speak to your vet as they are best placed to monitor your pet’s health and can offer advice depending on their needs.

Nutraplaque is an advanced support for healthy teeth, gums and breath odour. Nutraplaque is a 100% natural product that provides an advanced double action formula to help aid oral health and hygiene by systemically working against bad breath, tartar & plaque for healthy teeth and gums.

 

 

 

 

 

 

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Top tips to help maintain healthy teeth and gums in pets

healthy teeth and gums in pets

Maintaining healthy teeth and gums in pets is key to help with their overall general health.

Healthy teeth and gums in pets is important as poor dental care doesn’t just affect your pet’s mouth, the bacteria generated by gum disease could eventually enter their bloodstream and potentially damage their heart liver or kidneys.

When your dog or cat has healthy teeth and gums, they can get the most out of their food, crunching every delicious mouthful as they go, but if their teeth hurt, they’ll soon go off their meals and their metabolism will suffer.

Your pet’s teeth have a lot of work to do, dogs use their mouths for more than just eating, they use them to play, explore and taste a lot of their surroundings too. If your dog’s teeth aren’t properly cared for, it can cause problems.

Some positive things you can do to maintain healthy teeth and gums in pets include:

Teeth brushing

Brushing your pet’s teeth regularly is the best way to keep their teeth clean and healthy. Start from an early age to get them used to a routine. Cleaning dogs teeth is an important part of maintaining your pet’s dental care to help provide optimum health and quality of life.

Toys

You can buy your dog toys that are designed to clean your dog’s teeth as they chew on them. Be careful not to get toys that are too small and can be swallowed and get caught in your dog’s throat.

Dental chews

Dental chews or treats and specialist foods can also help to keep your pet’s mouth healthy. Be careful not to feed them too many of these, include them in their daily calorie intake to prevent any unwanted weight gain.

Treats

Don’t feed them too many sugary treats, as this can cause more bacteria to build up on your pet’s teeth.

Bones

Don’t feed your dog bones as these can damage their teeth. Bones can also break into splinters which can damage their gums and throat.

Visit your vet

Regular vet visits can allow them to keep an eye on your pet’s oral health, as well as other health issues that may arise.

Natural teeth plaque remover

Consider using a natural supplement like Nutraplaque which is a completely natural product that provides an advanced double action formula to help aid oral health and hygiene by systematically working against bad breath, tartar and plaque for healthy teeth and gums.

Nutraplaque is recommended by thousands of vets throughout the UK and Ireland as advanced support for healthy teeth, gums and breath odour in dogs and cats.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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Nutravet launches Nutraplaque for healthy teeth, gums and breath odour

Advanced support for healthy teeth, gums and breath odour in dogs and cats.

Nutravet are pleased to announce the launch of Nutraplaque, which provides a double action formula to help aid oral health and hygiene by systemically working against bad breath, tartar and plaque for healthy teeth and gums.

The unique double action formula of Nutraplaque combines to support optimal oral health by reducing plaque build-up and bad breath and is completely free from unnecessary and harmful sugars and preservatives that can cause tooth decay and damage teeth and gums.

Nutraplaque combines a unique blend of Ascophyllum Nodosum Seaweed and Green Tea Extract (decaffeinated) and are presented in easy to administer sprinkle capsules. The specially selected patented Norwegian seaweed within Nutraplaque has been shown to reduce plaque build-up by 35% after just 4 weeks use.

The benefits of Nutraplaque include:

  • Reduces & helps control plaque
  • Helps in the removal & control of tartar
  • Support for healthy teeth & gums
  • Reduces bad breath
  • Free from artificial preservatives, gluten and sugar

Matthew Shaw, Managing Director at Nutravet comments: “We’re really excited to introduce Nutraplaque into our market-leading range of veterinary exclusive nutraceuticals. Maintaining pets’ dental health is an important part of looking after a pet and our Nutraplaque sprinkle capsules make it easy for pet owners to keep up with oral health in an easy to administer form.

“The unique formulation of Nutraplaque works naturally within an animal’s body. The natural ingredients work through the saliva, where they help reduce new plaque from forming and soften existing tartar around the clock. “

Following its launch, Nutraplaque is available to order directly from Nutravet exclusively to authorised veterinary practices.

As with all Nutravet products, Nutraplaque is manufactured with minimal environmental impact and sustainability in mind and is sold in packaging made from 100% recycled materials.

For further information about Nutraplaque, to place an order or become an authorised veterinary practice, contact Nutravet here.

 

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Getting the most out of joint supplements for dogs

joint supplements for dogs

Whether you are giving your dog joint supplements to support their stiff old joints or for a puppy that needs support to help maintain their joints as they grow, as pet owners, ensuring your pet’s mobility health is crucial.

On the face of it many joint supplements for dogs and cats can appear good value however, many are very low in strength and contain fillers and unnecessary cheap ingredients meaning to get any real benefit from them you have to take large quantities. The Nutraquin range provides the highest strength products for pets whilst delivering the most affordable price.

It’s important to know exactly what you are giving to your dog; many pet supplements do not state all the ingredients. The Nutraquin range, only contains the highest quality, natural ingredients, which are both ethically and sustainably sourced with the purity levels stated on the packaging, so you know exactly what you are giving your dog.

When should I start giving joint supplements for dogs?

Many pet owners give their pet joint supplements for dogs when they notice them slowing down or struggling with stiff joints. However, joint support products are not just for older dogs, younger pets can also be given them to help maintain their joint health as they grow.

Being proactive and taking steps to maintain your puppy’s health as they grow is a good thing and it means that they’re less likely to develop problems with stiffness and mobility when they get older. Nutraquin includes high purity omega-3s, meaning it is ideal for milder cases, breeds predisposed to joint stiffness and puppies where it can support your puppy’s joints and mobility health as they grow.

How to give your dog supplements

Nutraquin+ are sprinkle capsules, which allow you to open the capsule and sprinkle the contents onto or mix it into your pet’s food. Some pets can be fussy eaters and instantly know something is in their food – we also recommend sprinkling it onto their favourite treat or in something smelly, such as tuna or mackerel.

Nutraquin omega-3 joint support are gel capsules, which are easy to administer to pets. If your pet does not like taking full capsules, then they can be pierced and squeezed into or onto your pet’s food to help with easy administration.

When should you give your dog their joint supplements?

For optimal benefit it’s recommended to give your dog the full dose as recommended by your vet or as per their weight. All capsules should be given at the same time, with food – so either with their morning feed or afternoon, depending on how many times and when you feed your dog during the day.

When should I expect to see results?

Be sure to keep up with the recommended loading dose, unlike other joint supplements for dogs that take up to 6 weeks before you see the benefit, Nutraquin+ are fast acting, with the benefits often seen within 4-7 days.

However, this is an average and is dependent on the animal and level of stiffness or depending on the individual health issue – the recommended loading dose is 6 weeks and by this time you should have started to see noticeable changes.

What’s the difference between Nutraquin and Nutraquin+?

Nutraquin is a prophylactic support for maintaining healthy joints. It is recommended for younger and growing animals that need early-stage support or breeds that are predisposed to joint stiffness.

Nutraquin+ is advanced support for pets showing signs of joint stiffness. It’s ideal for mid-aged and older pets that are showing clinical signs of joint stiffness.

If you are worried about your pet’s health and have spotted that they are slowing down or struggling to jump up on furniture or climb stairs, speak to your vet. Your vet is best placed to monitor their health and can check them for other health issues.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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Top tips for pet owners at Easter

Top tips for pet owners at Easter

Easter can be a fun and exciting time, but we share some top tips for pet owners at Easter to help care for four-legged friends.

Whether you’re enjoying nice long walks with your dog or tucking into your favourite chocolate egg, our top tips for pet owners at Easter help to highlight some hazards for pets that can come at this time of year.

Digestive upset is a common reason for pet owners to take their pets to the vets and at Easter it can be more prevalent due to the number of yummy treats and chocolate that can be in the home. Many pet owners see their pet as one of the family and like to include them in the celebrations or festivities. However, some human foods that we enjoy at this time of year and colourful flowers can give our pets sensitive tummies and may lead to an unwanted trip to the vets.

To help keep your pets healthy and safe, we highlight some hazards and top tips for pet owners at Easter:

Chocolate

Chocolate contains a powerful stimulant called theobromine that pets can’t cope with, so even the smallest amount is not recommended. Try to keep all chocolate eggs and treats out of reach from your pets and let other family members know not to feed them to your pet. Keep some of your dog or cat’s favourite treat to hand while you are enjoying your Easter egg to ensure they don’t beg or feel left out.

Hot Cross Buns

This yummy treat is synonymous with Easter and can contain raisins, currants or sultanas. These are all foods that are toxic to cats and dogs and could cause tummy upsets and for your pet to feel unwell. Be sure to keep these out of reach from your pet, especially if they are left alone in the house – be sure they are all hidden away.

Easter grass

Colourful grasses are often used to line Easter baskets for Easter egg hunts or decoration. These usually contain plastic materials, which can be harmful to pets if swallowed. Try using alternatives like tissue paper instead to line your basket and keep all decorations out of reach from pets.

Easter plants

Flowers and plants that add some colour to our homes or gardens at this time of year, such as daffodils and lilies can be toxic to our pets. Lilies contains unknown toxins that if ingested by cats can cause tummy upsets, even a small amount can result in kidney failure. Daffodils contain poisonous alkaloids that can cause vomiting, diarrhoea and excessive salivation in pets. The bulbs are the most dangerous part.

Spring bulbs

All spring bulbs and often what grows out of them are poisonous to pets. Dogs are most likely to be affects as they can be curious when in the garden and root them up, especially when freshly planted in autumn or coming into flower in spring.

Human sweets

Don’t feed your pet any human sweets or sweet treats, especially those that say they are sugar free as they may contain xylitol, which is a synthetic sweetener which is toxic to cats and dogs.

Roast dinner

Many of us will sit down to enjoy a roast dinner this Easter, but it’s important to remember not to feed your pet scraps from the dinner table. Scraps of fatty pork or ham can lead to upset tummies for our pets. Be sure to make other family members aware they should not feed table scraps to your cat or dog. Give your pet some yummy treats to enjoy whilst you sit down for your dinner to stop them from begging.

 

If you are worried that your pet may have eaten something they shouldn’t, consult your vet straight away. Your vet will be able to advise the best course of action dependant on what your pet has eaten or ingested.

If your pet has a sensitive tummy and is prone to eating things they shouldn’t, ask your vet about Nutrabio, which is specifically formulated to aid healthy digestive function in dogs and cats.

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Common signs your pet needs liver health support

your pet needs liver health support

Maintaining good liver health in pets is important to their general health and identifying common signs your pet needs liver health support can help.

As an owner, knowing the common signs your pet needs liver health support is important as the liver plays an important role in the body. It has a wide variety of functions including filtering the blood from the digestive tract, before passing it to the rest of the body. It also detoxifies chemicals and metabolises whilst supporting the liver when it’s processing medication.

The liver also detoxifies chemicals and metabolises to support itself when processing medication. Other essential functions include:

  • The liver makes nutrients and controls their release into the body
  • It produces plasma proteins and blood clotting factors
  • The liver stores vitamins A, D, K and B12, as well as the minerals iron and copper and releases them when needed.
  • It breaks down medications and exits toxic substances from the body.

Common signs your pet needs liver health support include:

  • Loss of appetite
  • Weight loss
  • Jaundice (yellowing of skin)
  • Increased thirst
  • Vomiting or diarrhoea
  • Changes in behaviour
  • Excessive drooling
  • Lack of energy or depression

The liver is very good at repairing itself, so if the problems is treatable, the liver will usually be able to recover and start working again. Treatment may depend on the type of liver problem and severity.

Natural supplements for liver health

If you notice some common signs your pet needs liver health support, speak to your vet who is best placed to offer advice. Ask your vet for more information on how Nutramarin+ can help aid your pet’s liver health.

Nutramarin+ provides triple action support for healthy liver function, which helps to naturally cleanse the liver. Nutramarin+ is recommended by thousands of vets throughout the UK and Ireland.

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Common signs your pet needs kidney health support

your pet needs kidney health support

If your pet needs kidney health support, it could be vital for their general health and wellbeing, as the kidneys play an important role.

Maintaining good renal health is vital for an animal’s general health and well-being especially as they get older. The kidneys play an important role in an animal’s body, if your pet needs kidney support it’s important to speak to your vet.

The kidneys carry out many important tasks, including helping to balance certain substances in the blood and filter out the body’s waste as urine.

Common signs that your pet needs kidney health support include:

Urinating more than normal

Damaged kidneys struggle to manage the levels of water in your pet’s body. This means they will urinate more often and have more water in their urine making it light in colour or almost clear.

Drinking more water

Your pet may drink more to make up for how much water they are losing during urination

Looking generally unwell

As their kidneys are struggling to get rid of toxins from the body, these can build up and make your pet feel very unwell and might cause them to be actually sick.

Loss of appetite

Your pet may be off their food, due to feeling unwell so not eat as much.

Losing weight

You may notice that your pet is losing weight, this could be due to them not eating as much.

Feeling tired and generally unhappy

Your pet may appear more lethargic and seem irritable due to feeling unwell and being uncomfortable.

 

If your pet is showing any of the above signs, be sure to speak to your vet as they could be caused by other health related issues and your vet is best placed to monitor your pet’s health.

Nutraren has been developed to aid kidney health and has been formulated using scientifically proven ingredients that support renal health in an easy to administer high strength capsule. Nutraren is recommended by thousands of vets throughout the UK and Ireland and is available to purchase over the counter at all good veterinary practices.

 

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Puppy separation anxiety

puppy separation anxiety

Puppy separation anxiety can develop because your new pet gets used to having you around and they develop a bond. Many puppies can get separation anxiety because they don’t fully understand why you leave them.

To help prevent puppy separation anxiety, it’s important for your puppy to be comfortable when left alone. Four hours is the longest that a dog should be left alone for, but it can depend on their age. An active young puppy may get bored after four hours, but a senior dog may be ok to be left for longer.

Most puppies will whine or cry a little when left alone. True separation anxiety is defined as destructive or disruptive behaviour, including constant barking and whining.

Why does my puppy have separation anxiety?

Separation anxiety can happen for many reasons, such as when your dog isn’t used to being left alone or is scared of something in the home.

Other things that can lead to puppy separation anxiety include:

  • Poor socialisation
  • Not being used to being alone
  • Changes in the home
  • Boredom

How to help reduce puppy separation anxiety

There are many positive things you can do, which include:

Don’t make a fuss

When leaving them alone, don’t make a fuss – this can increase your puppy’s anxiety levels. Leave them with a treat or a toy so they can associate their dog crate or bed with something positive.

Leave the TV or radio on

Leaving the TV or radio on when you go out can help to keep your puppy company and also drown out any external noise which may make them anxious or bark constantly.

Stay calm when returning

Try not to get overly excited when you return home or in the morning when waking up. Just let your puppy out of his crate and take them outside to go to the toilet. Once they have relieved themselves you can make a fuss as a reward.

Crate train your puppy

When this is done properly, the use of a crate is a great way to help your puppy remain calm and stay out of trouble.

Get them used to being alone

Leave your puppy alone in their crate or a safe and secure room (you could use a baby gate to prevent escape) for short periods of time. Gradually increase the time you leave them and reward good behaviour with praise.

Ask someone to check on them

If you know you’re going to be out for a long period, ask a neighbour or family friend to check in on your puppy. This will allow them some time out of their crate and give them a chance to go to the toilet if they need too.

Ask your vet about Nutracalm

Nutracalm is a fast-acting supplement for reducing stress and anxiety. It has been developed to help stressed and fretful pets without any sedative effect and can be used to help calm puppy separation anxiety.

Nutracalm is recommended by thousands of vets throughout the UK and Ireland.