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Coronavirus in pets 2021

CORONAVIRUS – Can my pets catch it

by Pet Insurance UK

Can pets get Coronavirus?

It is unlikely that your pets will pick up or pass on Coronavirus, however recent studies have shown cats, dogs, ferrets, fruit bats, and hamsters can become infected with the virus. Research suggest cats, ferrets and hamsters can spread the infection to other animals within the same species in a laboratory setting and news reports of outbreaks amongst farmed animals like recent outbreaks in Danish Mink farms show the virus can spread quickly if it takes hold in a species.

We know that it is likely that Coronavirus jumped species in order to become a problem for humans. Once a virus mutates and becomes readily transmissible within a species it can quickly spread and this is what we have seen in the human population pandemic. The CDC in America suggests transmission can occur from a humans to pets but it is not clear if there is transmission the other way around from a pet to their owner. 

One important thing to note is that your pets are unlikely to become seriously unwell from Coronavirus, but if you have had the virus and your pet/s seem unwell you should consult vets advice on treatment. It is advisable to call your vet and explain the issues before taking your pet to the vet surgery (to protect other animals catching anything off your pet/s).

General precautions you can take to keep your pets safe

Ensure your cats or dogs are not allowed out to roam freely.
Limit close contact with other cats and dogs that are not in your household. When on walks only let your dog or cat off a lead when no other dogs or cats are around. Try not to let your pets share water and food bowls with other pets and especially not with other animals outside of your own household.

What should you do if you have the virus or recently tested positive?

Guidance recommends you treat your pets similar to people, therefore you  should take some basic precautions including: 

Don’t get too close to your pets, leave others to care for your pets while you isolate. 
Don’t feed or share food you have eaten or licked with pets
Don’t allow your pets to sleep in your bed, don’t cuddle or have your pets in close proximity to you while you are sick/isolating. 
Wear a mask if you need to have close contact with your pets when you are sick or isolating.  

What you shouldn't do

As there is no evidence that coronavirus can spread to people from the skin, fur, or hair of pets. You should not wipe or bath your pet with disinfectants, alcohol, hydrogen peroxide, or other products. Hand sanitiser, cleaning wipes and other chemical based products can be more damaging to your pets skin and health. 

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Winter warming fashion for dogs

Winter – Keeping Pets Warm Outdoors

by Pet Insurance UK

Keep your dog warm & dry this winter

Pets feel the cold just like us humans. Dogs that live indoors most of the time are not used to sudden changes in temperature, so when it gets really cold outside they can catch a chill. You can find a huge selection of dog clothing online to keep your dogs warm and dry when they are out on walks during the cold winter months.

It is really important that smaller dogs are kept warm, especially those with shorter coats. Smaller dogs are often more susceptible to cold weather but it’s not just smaller dogs, most dogs will feel the cold, especially in freezing conditions. 

Should I buy my dog a coat or jacket?

Dog coats or jackets can provide a little added insulation layer, they can help to trap heat and keep your dog warm. Many coats and jackets incorporate a quilted layer or have fleece linings to provide extra warmth. Many doggy coats also have a waterproof outer layer, so they are also great in rain showers. Dog jackers and coats start from £15 upward, so they are a cost effective way to keep your dog warm, dry and happy.

Our favourite dog coats

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Designer Dog Jackets..

Not In The Dog House - Dog Fashion
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Pet Health - Diabetes in pets

Diabetes – Dogs & Pets Can Get Diabetes

by p3tsadmin

Diabetes - Steps to prevent diabetes in pets

Diabetes in pets is a growing problem for pet owners. Dogs, cats and other pets age at a much faster rate than people. Typically for every human year, your dog or cat ages between 6 to 8 years. As your pets age their nutritional needs change. All pet’s require suitable food to provide an overall balanced diet. Foods containing sugar, salt and excessive fat are much more harmful to pets, and feeding pets snacks and food meant for human consumption is extremely bad for pet health and can lead to diseases like diabetes and even cholesterol.

Most quality ‘complete’ pet foods are manufactured to provide a balanced diet with enough protein, fibre, fats, vitamins, and minerals required for a healthy diet. Occasional pet treats are fine as long as they are produced as treats for pets (NOT human snacks, sweets or candy). As your pets ages, switching to a mature animal feed is recommended (especially dogs and cats), mature complex food can ensure your pets get extra essential nutrients but with reduced fats.

Diabetes is common in pets that are overweight. If your pet/s are over weight, constantly thirsty or drinking, there is a good chance they have developed diabetes. A urine test or blood test by your vet can provide confirmation. The best way to prevent diabetes is to ensure your pets are at a healthy weight and have a healthy diet. It is possible, if caught early to reverse diabetes or manage it with diet, exercise and food. However in many cases where it is not possible your pets will require medication to manage their diabetes, this is usually in the form of tablets however in some cases pets will require insulin injections.

 

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  • Urinating More – Pet needs to urinate more often. Your pets urine is dark &/or strong smelling. Your pet may be having accidents indoors.
  • Always Thirsty – Pet seems to be constantly thirsty. They are drinking more than usual and you are having to refill their water more often.
  • Loosing/Gaining Weight – Pet has lost weight or gained a lot of weight. 
  • Always Hungry – Pet is always hungry and never satisfied, begging for more food.
  • Pet Looks Less Healthy – Pets coat or skin looks dull or dry, fur is shedding or patchy / Pets eyes are watery or cloudy. 
  • Lacks Energy / Always Tired – Pet wants to sleep more, less keen or able to exercise & walk.
  • Maintain A Healthy Weight – Ensure your pets are a healthy weight.
  • Switch Food – Switch to a weight loss or diabetes control food like Virbac W1 or similar specialist food.
  • Limit treats – Only feed your pets ‘Pet Treats’, no candy or fatty human snacks. Sugary/salty/fatty snacks are not good for pets. 
  • Daily Exercise – Ensure your pets, especially dogs, get daily exercise. A walk has great health benefits for owners as well as dogs.

Virbac complete dog food, blended to help aid weight loss & prevent/manage diabetes. Virbac W1 is designed for all dog types (* you must not exceed recommended portion sizes for size/breed of dog):
BUY NOW – Virbac W1
12kg = £73.12 (+£7 delivery)
7kg = £49.95 (+£7.54 delivery)