Category: For dogs

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Cold weather and your pet’s joints

cold weather and pets joints

Just like with humans, when temperatures dip, cold weather can affect a pet’s joints and cause joint stiffness.

It’s not exactly clear what causes increased joint stiffness during winter months, but there could be several reasons, which include:

Air pressure – a drop in air pressure causes tissues in your pet’s body to swell and make moving more difficult.

Rigid muscles – even in dogs who don’t suffer from joint stiffness, cold temperatures can cause muscles to become tense. For dogs with existing stiffness, this can be hard to manage.

Reduced exercise – freezing temperatures mean staying indoors where it’s warm and cosy is more likely. But dogs with joint stiffness need movement to stretch and warm up their muscles, as this helps to reduce the symptoms.

Support your pet’s joints in winter

In cold weather to help support your pet’s joints, there are some positive things you can do:

Get your pet moving

One of the most important things for dogs with joint stiffness is to exercise. They may not feel like it but getting them up and moving will help to warm up and strengthen your dog’s muscles and reduce stiffness in the joints. Aim to go on a short walk at least once, if not twice a day. If it’s too cold outside try to get your dog moving indoors, using an obstacle course, or hiding some treats around the home.

Weight management

Many pet owners think that during cold weather, pets need extra food to keep warm. However, this is not the case for most pets, especially if they are moving less due to the cold. It’s important to keep an eye on what your pet eats during colder months. Unwanted weight gain can add pressure to joints. If your pet is moving less, make sure they are not taking on more calories. If your pet gets treats, be sure to add them into their daily calorie intake.

Heating pads or blankets

Since the cold temperatures might be making it hard for your pooch to move, especially overnight, try to warm them up using a pet-safe heated blanket or heating pad for them to sleep on. The extra warmth may encourage your dog to get up and moving first thing in the morning. You could also place your pet’s bed closer to a radiator in the home, which may help.

Massage

Gently massaging your dog’s problem areas, like their knees or hips, may help to loosen stiff muscles and make it easier for them to move. Find a pet massage professional in your area or do some research on how to properly administer gentle massages at home. This will help to give your pet a little extra care if they are struggling.

Home adjustments

Use ramps in the home to help your pet get up to their favourite sleeping spot on furniture or to get up steps or into the car for dog walks. This will help to reduce injury from jumping up or down. You could also raise their food and water bowls if they are unable to bend down due to stiff joints.

Use Nutraquin+

Using Nutraquin+ daily will give your pet’s joints the extra support they need throughout the winter months. If your pet isn’t already taking a high-quality joint supplement, winter is a good time to start, to support their joints in cold weather.

Nutraquin+ is fast acting (4-7 days) and formulated using the purest ingredients that help aid and soothe stiff joints and support the natural systems that control inflammation in dogs, cats & horses.

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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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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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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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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.

 

 

 

 

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What is Kaolin for dogs and cats?

Kaolin for dogs and cats

Kaolin for dogs and cats is a key natural ingredient to support digestive health.

Maintaining healthy digestive function helps your pet to live a healthy and happy life. As a pet owner it is important to understand how to support and maintain healthy digestive function for your cat or dog to prevent unwanted trips to the vet. Dogs are especially curious and can pick up objects they shouldn’t.

Kaolin is a type of clay found in nature although can also be made in a laboratory. It may be useful for cases where a pets stools become very loose as it can help pets by absorbing water to firm up their loose stools. By reducing the speed of passage through the gut, Kaolin helps with the absorption of nutrients and water, which are important to aid the gut. It can help to reduce the quantity of loose stools and improve the consistence of the faeces, which in turn reduces the risk of dehydration.

Kaolin for dogs and cats acts as an absorbent which works by binding toxins and removing them from the gut.

Kaolin is used in many probiotic supplements for dogs and cats to help firm up their stools, in cases of mild to moderate or non-infectious diarrhoea. It is often used in combination with other natural ingredients such as probiotics, prebiotics and Sweet Basil Extract to support digestive balance in dogs and cats.

If you are looking for Kaolin for dogs and cats, Nutrabio is recommended by thousands of vets throughout the UK and Ireland.

Nutrabio uses a unique combination of proven natural ingredients to help support digestive balance. This is achieved by increasing the number of beneficial good bacteria, whilst binding the toxins, which are then passes safely through the gut.

If you are worried about your pet’s digestive health, speak to your vet who is best placed to offer advice.

 

 

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Chitosan for dogs and cats

Chitosan for dogs and cats

Chitosan for dogs and cats is recommended by vets to support kidney function. It binds with the phosphorus in the body, limiting its absorption and supporting healthy renal function.

Chitosan is a sugar that cannot be found naturally in foods but is obtained from the hard-outer skeleton of shellfish, including crab, lobster and shrimp.

Chitosan from Icelandic shrimp shells bind toxins in the digestive tract which helps to support kidney loading. It has been used by some vets to chelate fat with the apparent benefit of reducing tendencies to pancreatitis. It has recently been recommended to slow the progression of chronic renal problems in dogs and cats by decreasing the absorption phosphorus.

Kidneys play and important role including filtering waste products, controlling osmolality and regulating blood pressure. The flow of blood to the kidneys is important, as kidneys filter blood, remove waste and extra water to make urine.

When kidneys are not functioning properly, toxins build up in the blood and pets can become ill and need veterinary help. Kidney function in pets is known to decline with age, and this can be associated with a decrease in renal Omega-3s and an increase in inflammation. Kidney failure is pets is relatively common but feeding them a good quality diet and providing them with a constant supply of fresh clean water will help to support their kidneys.

Chitosan supplements

If you are looking for Chitosan for dogs and cats, Nutraren is recommended by thousands of vets throughout the UK and Ireland. Nutraren’s synergistic combination of natural ingredients including high purity Omega-3, aid renal function, bind toxins and support an animal’s quality of life.

Nutraren helps to bind toxins in the gut which aids healthy blood flow into the kidneys where a stable balance of body chemicals can be achieved and waste products and excess fluid from the body are removed.

If you are worried about your pet’s health, speak to your vet as they are best placed to offer the correct advice.

 

 

 

 

 

 

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Dog with dry skin

dog with dry skin

If you have a dog with dry skin, there could be many reasons for this. As a pet owner it’s never nice to see your dog suffering.

Dry skin can be easier to spot on dogs with short hair compared to longer coated dogs. If you part the coat you may be able to see flakes of skin. Dry skin can lead to an itchy dog and can become worse at certain times of the year.

A dog with dry skin may scratch, lick or bite themselves – sometimes to the point of causing injury. Other symptoms can include hair loss from excessive scratching or skin that appears dry, flaky, scaly or otherwise irritated.

Why do dogs get dry skin?

Dehydration
If your dog has mild dehydration, this can show as dry skin. If you feed your dog dry food, this automatically absorbs lots of moisture from the body and may lead to your dog drinking more water.

Allergies
Allergies are a common reason for dry skin on dogs. These can be more apparent in springtime, and the allergic response by the body can cause sensitivity in the skin and itching.

Poor diet
A low-quality diet means that your dog may not be receiving the essential nutrients that make for healthy skin and a shiny coat.

Weather
Cold or windy weather – especially when combined with the dryness caused by indoor heating systems – can really take its toll on your dog’s skin. As seasons change you may also seem other symptoms such as itching and flaking.

Defective moisture barrier
The skin has a moisture barrier (made up of skin cells, proteins and fats) that helps to retain moisture in the skin. Sometimes this becomes compromised or is just not as good in some dogs as others and can cause dry skin.

How to support your dog’s dry skin

Plenty of water
To help replenish the moisture in your dog’s dry skin, be sure to provide plenty of fresh, clean water daily.

Diet
Giving your dog a high-quality diet is essential to support their skin health. Often pets are unwittingly fed an unnatural diet, which is too high in Omega-6 fatty acids derived from high levels of cereals and vegetable proteins. Supplementing their diet with Omega-3 for dogs can help to counteract the Omega-6 imbalance and will help to support their skin and coat health.

Grooming
Regularly brushing your dog’s coat will help to distribute natural skin oils and keep their coat shiny. Try not to groom them more often than once a week as this could lead to irritation on the skin.

Protect from cold weather
Limit the amount of time your dog spends out in cold weather and use a moisturising shampoo to help relieve their dry skin. Don’t over bathe your dog as this could worsen their dry skin. Be sure to only use animal specific shampoos.

Omega-3s
Supplement your dog’s diet with Omega-3s. As well as supporting healthy skin and coat, Omega-3s appear to improve skin barrier function, sealing the moisture and keeping out irritants.

If you have a dog with dry skin, ask your vet about Nutramega which contains highly refined Omega-3 fish oil from ocean sardines.

Nutramega has been specially formulated to support an animal’s natural systems that control inflammation. The high-strength formula of Omega-3s (EPA and DHA) fatty acids combined with d-biotin and Vitamin E work synergistically to aid and sooth the skin.

 

 

 

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Dog depression: why is my dog sad?

Dog depression

Dog depression can be a common reason for pet owners to visit the vets. There are a number of factors that can impact your dog’s mood and behaviour, such as changes to their routine, environment or even fears and phobias.

Dog depression symptoms can be very similar to those in people. Some common signs of depression in dogs can include:

  • Withdrawn – they may be less enthusiastic for exercise of joining in with things they enjoy
  • Lethargic – your dog may sleep more than usual
  • Loss of appetite – they may lose interest in food or not be eating as much as normal
  • Unable to settle – your dog may appear restless, not sleeping well or as deeply as normal.

If you are worried about changes in your dog’s behaviour, it is important you consult your vet, as these changes may be a result of a health problem.

Reasons your dog may be depressed

The two most common triggers of dog depression are the loss of a companion animal or the loss of their owner. However, there are a number of other reasons your dog could be depressed or sad which include:

Changes to their environment

Dogs like routines and are the happiest when they feel confident and safe in their environment. Dramatic changes in the home, such as building work or renovations, or even reorganising rooms could leave your pooch feeling anxious.

Changes in the family

Most dogs bond very strongly with their family, including all members, pets and humans alike. Changes to the family dynamic, such as divorce, bereavement (animal and human), or children leaving home could lead to your dog being depressed. Dogs don’t understand where their furry friend or their best human friend has gone.

However, it’s not just grief that can affect your dog’s mood. If you are not at home as much anymore, maybe you’ve returned to work after a long absence or the kids are going back to school, this could also affect your dog’s mood. Separation anxiety in dogs is a common problem.

Seasonal affective disorder (SAD)

SAD not only affects humans, like their owners, in winter months, dogs can also develop some form of seasonal affective disorder. Through winter, especially during long, cold and wet days, it can be hard to give your dog the exercise they need and lack or exercise or activity could lead to boredom and mood changes in your dog. Not being able to do things they are used to or are bred to do can result in behaviour problems which may present themselves as symptoms of dog depression.

Illness

Sometimes dog depression may not be caused by any mental or emotional issues. It could be down to a physical cause, such as pain or illness. Be sure to speak to your vet if you are worried about your dog, they will be able to check for any underlying health problems and are best placed to offer advice.

Personality

All dogs are different, and some are just bouncier and happier by nature than others. If your dog seems quieter and more withdrawn, it may just be down to their nature and breed. Do some research on your dog’s breed to find out what things they may enjoy and how you can enhance their life and mood.

How to help your depressed dog

Once you identify and understand the reason for your dog’s mood change, you can start to look for ways to help improve it. Give them plenty of attention and TLC and use lots of fun ways to distract them from the reason they may be feeling depressed or sad.

If your dog doesn’t seem to snap out of their low mood, be sure to speak to your vet. They will be able to offer advice on further treatment if necessary and offer some behavioural techniques depending on your situation.

Natural supplements for dog depression

If your dog is feeling overly anxious or stressed in certain situations, consider using Nutracalm, which is recommended by thousands of vets throughout the UK and Ireland. Nutracalm has been specially formulated by vets to calm anxious pets and to reduce unwanted or unruly behaviour in dogs and cats. It can also be used alongside behaviour techniques as recommended by your vet.

Nutramind provides high strength nutritional support for healthy brain function in dogs and cats. It includes the key nutrients for supporting cognitive function in ageing pets whilst benefiting younger pets in training and learning.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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Calcium for dogs and cats

Calcium for dogs and cats

Calcium for dogs and cats is an essential mineral that supports an animal’s healthy kidney function, teeth and bone health and helps their blood to clot properly.

Derived from the red seaweed Lithothamnium calcareum with its porous honeycomb structure, calcium for dogs and cats has exceptional calcium bioavailability and is proven to help support renal function.

Calcium from seaweed is a vet recommended choice because it provides other beneficial minerals, primarily magnesium, but also small amounts of zinc, potassium, iodine and selenium. Calcium helps a dog’s muscles to lengthen and contract and plays and important part in essential processes in an animal’s cells.

Calcium is often used alongside Omega 3s, Chitosan and Vitamin E to support renal health. An animal’s kidneys play an important role including filtering waste products, controlling osmolality and regulating blood pressure. The kidneys also keep both phosphate and calcium at healthy levels.

Kidney health in dogs & cats

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

Kidney function in pets is known to decline with age, and this can be associated with a decrease in renal Omega-3s and an increase in inflammation. Kidney failure is pets is relatively common but feeding them a good quality diet and providing them with a constant supply of fresh clean water will help to support their kidneys.

Natural supplements

If you’re looking for calcium for dogs and cats, Nutraren is recommended by thousands of vets throughout the UK and Ireland. Nutraren’s synergistic combination of natural ingredients including high purity Omega-3s, aids renal function, bind toxins and supports an animal’s quality of life.

If you are worried about your pet’s kidney health or health and wellbeing in general, speak to your vet who is best placed to offer the best possible advice and care.

 

 

 

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Top tips to maintain kidney health in pets

kidney health in pets

Maintaining good kidney health in pets is vital for their general health and wellbeing, especially as they get older.

Kidney health in pets is known to decline with age, and this can be associated with a decrease in renal Omega-3s and an increase in inflammation. Kidney failure in pets is relatively common but feeding them a good quality diet and providing them with a constant supply of fresh clean water will help to support their kidneys.

Kidneys carry out many important tasks in your pet’s body. Kidneys help to balance certain substances in the blood and filter out the body’s waste as urine. They maintain normal concentrations of salt and water in the body. They also help to control blood pressure, aid in calcium metabolism and sustain phosphorus levels.

Signs of kidney problems in pets can include:

  • Urinating more often and urine will usually be very diluted
  • Increased drinking to replace fluids
  • Nausea and vomiting due to build-up of toxins
  • Retching or going off food
  • Tiredness and lethargy
  • Pale gums
  • Mouth ulcers
  • Fragile weak bones

To help maintain kidney health in pets, there are some positive things you can do, which include:

Water intake

Make sure your pet has access to fresh and clean water on a regular basis. Water is essential for all animals but especially important to maintain kidney health in pets.

Protein management

Too high a protein content can lead to an accumulation of toxic products within the blood. However, lowering the protein levels too far can lead to problems. The best diets will contain proteins of a high biological value, ensuring there are no deficiencies in essential
amino acids.

Reduce sodium content

High sodium levels can lead to hypertension, however care must be taken as reducing the levels too far can be a contributing factor in metabolic acidosis and it can affect palatability.

Good fibre levels

Fibre is important to help gastrointestinal motility.

Reduce stress for kidney health in pets

Keep your pet calm where possible as when a pet is stressed, they may eat or drink less. Reduced water intake is detrimental to the kidneys.

Clean teeth

Periodontal disease has been shown to increase a dog’s risk of developing renal failure. Regular teeth brushing can help to prevent this.

Reduce toxins

Poisons is a leading problem for renal health. Understanding what substances and foods are unsafe for your pet can keep them safe from poisoning. For example, chocolate, grapes and raisins or antifreeze and some cleaning products.

Omega 3s for dogs and cats

A diet high in Omega 3 fatty acids can help. High purity Omega 3s from fish oil can have beneficial effects on supporting the animal’s natural systems that control inflammation and supporting a better quality of life.

Reduce phosphate content

Reducing the phosphate content in the diet can help in reducing damage to kidneys and has been linked to extending life, especially in cats.

Regular monitoring

Regular vet visits are important to monitor our pet’s health and your vet is best placed to offer the best advice. Always take on your vet’s advice. If you are worried about your pet’s health or anything above, consult your vet who is best placed to offer advice dependent on their age and breed.

Natural supplement for kidney health in pets

If you are looking for a natural supplement to support kidney health in pets, Nutraren is recommended by vets throughout the UK & Ireland. Nutraren’s synergistic combination of natural scientifically proven ingredients including high purity Omega-3s, aid renal function, bind toxins in the gut and support an animal’s quality of life.