In December 2016 Bobby started drinking and urinating a lot. He also started eating much more food. Blood tests were taken over several weeks and confirmed that Bobby is a diabetic.
Diabetes in dogs is very common, although definitely more common in the female !! The most common clinical signs are excess drinking and urnation. It is really easy to rule it out by a simple in-house blood test.
Bobby is now getting insulin injections morning and evening and in great form – as you can see from todays picture of him.

TIP – if you have a diabetic dog be aware they can get LOW blood sugar when receiving insulin. Weakness and lethargy is usually the main signs. A couple of spoons of honey by mouth will usually sort the problem

Reasons why a pet becomes obese:

• Excessive calorie intake (over-eating)
• Lower metabolic rate due to neutering.
• Inappropriate use of snacks, treats and supplements (human treats and snacks)
• Lack of exercise
• Appetite-stimulating drug therapy ( e.g. steroid treatments)
• Social factors (e.g. multi-pet households)
• Decreased energy requirements e.g. Hypothyroid disease

The effects of Obesity:

Obesity decreases your pets quality of life and puts your pet at risk of one or more of the following:

• Shorter life span!
• Diabetes Mellitus
• Cardiovascular Disease – heart disease
• Degenerative Joint & Orthopaedic Disease (DJD)
• Joint Stress/musculoskeletal Pain
• Exercise intolerance
• Insulin resistance
• Glucose intolerance
• Increased surgical and anaesthetic complications
• Neurological disorders
• Respiratory problems
• Cancer and tumors
• Skin problems
• Premature aging
• Heat Intolerance
• Hypertension -high blood pressure
• Reproductive disorders
• Decreased quality of life
• Susceptibility to infections

 Does your pet have a weight problem?

If you answer ‘yes’ to any of the questions below, or if you think your pet is not at its optimum body condition, you may want to talk to us about a weight management program.

1. Do you have difficulty feeling your pet’s ribs?
2. Is there little or no ‘waist’?
3. Do you give your pet table scraps or leftovers?
4. Is your pet reluctant to exercise?
5. Does your pet seem to tire easily with activity?
6. Does your pet waddle when it walks?
7. Does your pet keep eating so long as there is food in the bowl?
8. Have you been told your pet is overweight?

Healthy snacks for your pet:

• Carrots (contain Beta-carotene and aid in weight loss in dogs)
• Cucumbers
• Celery
• Ice cubes (on a hot day)

Unhealthy snacks for your pet:

What a treat for your dog would be equivalent to in human snack terms!

BlondieThis lovely cat was found in Springfield about 2 weeks ago wearing a pink collar. She was heavily matted and very uncomfortable and sore, as the matts were pulling on her skin. As a result, Blondie had to be completely shaved by the nurses here at the Animal Hospital. Her skin was badly inflamed with some infection present were the hair had been pulling at her skin. She has been treated for the last 2 weeks with antibiotics and special cream and her skin is now fully better and her beautiful coat is beginning to grow back.

As nobody has turned up to claim Blondie, she is now looking for a new home that will be able to look after her long coat with regular grooming. If you recognise her or would like to offer Blondie a home please contact the vets on 01-4515930.

She is approximately 1 year old, up to date with worming and flea treatments, and will be starting her vaccinations this week. Blondie is a very affectionate cat and will be a great addition to any family.

Mac – April Pet Of the Month

Mac is a lovable 10 year old crossbreed dog. His owner noticed that he was finding it difficult to pass faeces and were worried that there was something serious wrong. After an examination with one of our Veterinary surgeons, Mr Doherty, he was quickly diagnosed with a perineal hernia, which can be a very uncomfortable condition. He was immediately admitted to The Animal Hospital for further treatment.

Mac had to have multiple enemas to clear his blockage before a surgery could be attempted on the problem area. He quickly grew popular with the nurses here and his little face and wagging tail, never failed to put a smile on our faces.

After a successful surgery last week, Mac is recovering very well. He will be back for a final check over next week and once the vet is happy with his progress , his life can return to normal. He is awarded April Pet of the Month.

Sheeba – March Pet of the Month

Sheeba is a 13year old crossbreed dog. Her proud owner Eddie is delighted that his old friend has been awarded March Pet of the Month. Sheeba has typical signs of old age such as heart problems and arthritis. Recently, Sheeba had a collapsing episode and everyone here at The Animal Hospital feared the worst. A blood sample was taken and the results showed an unusually low level of potassium, a condition known as hypokalemia. She was placed on some supplements and is now doing very well and has a new lease of life! We were happy to award March pet of the month to Sheeba.