Small Animals

How frequently should we be vaccinating dogs and cats (in South Africa)? Read More »

Historically, annual vaccination had been recommended. There were two reasons. The most important was that vaccine manufacturers had proof that the core vaccines provided immunity for at least a year. The second reason used to justify annual vaccination was that pets benefit from an annual health check – usually given at the time of vaccination. […]

What is constipation? Read More »

Constipation is the infrequent or difficult passage of faeces. There can be various causes for constipation. Dietary, behavioural, environmental and medically related causes may result in your pet becoming constipated. Read more about constipation in dogs and cats.

What is FIV and FELV? Read More »

 Feline Immunodeficiency Virus (FIV) and Feline Leukemia Virus (FELV) belong to a family of viruses called retroviruses. All retroviruses (including the Human Immunodeficiency Virus) produce an enzyme which allows them to insert a part of their own genetic material into that of the cells they have infected. Read More

What are “Hot Spots”? Read More »

Pyotraumatic dermatitis commonly known as “Hot Spots” are bacterial infections of the skin associated with inflammation. It can be extremely uncomfortable for the animal. Read More

 What is canine parvovirus? Read More »

Canine parvovirus is a highly contagious disease that spreads easily from dog to dog by direct or indirect contact with their faeces. Dogs become infected through oral contact with canine parvovirus in faeces, infected soil or fomites (object / substance capable of carrying infectious organisms). Read More

What is Spirocercosis? Read More »

Spirocerca lupi is a potentially lethal parasitic worm that lives in nodules within the oesophagus of dogs. The worms can survive in these nodules for up to 2 years, laying eggs through a small opening in the nodule which are swallowed and passed out in the faeces. Read More

Why should I sterilize my pet? Read More »

The best advice is to sterilize your pet. This ensures no unwanted puppies or kittens, no complications with pregnancy and the birth of the young, no females on heat to roam the neighbourhood to cause fights amongst the males it helps keep your pets at home and healthy. Generally females are sterilized from the age

How often should you visit your vet? Read More »

This depends on your vets vaccine protocol and recommendations but generally annual health checks are advisable.

What must I look out for when buying a puppy? Read More »

One of the saddest things in private practice is witnessing the joy and delight of a new puppy turn to sorrow when, a few days after its purchase; it succumbs to a horrible disease like parvo virus or distemper. What makes it especially sad is that these diseases are preventable with correct vaccination. Read more about