Pet owners seeking guidance on their furry companions can turn to Sean, head vet at the tailored pet food company tails.com. With a decade of experience, he addresses common concerns related to pet health, nutrition, and behaviour. His mission is to keep pets happy and healthy by providing expert advice to their owners.
Exercise Tips for Active Dogs
One inquiry came from Steve Edwards in Leeds, who is keen to exercise with his three-year-old Labrador, Ebony. He expressed concerns about how much running would be appropriate. In response, Sean emphasized the importance of gradually increasing exercise intensity. While Labradors are energetic, he cautioned against assuming they are fit merely due to their enthusiasm.
He advised, “Build up slowly, avoid long runs on hard pavements, and watch for excessive panting or lagging.” Sean also noted that if Ebony has a history of injury or joint issues—common in this breed—consulting a veterinarian would be prudent. He reinforced that a tailored exercise plan is as crucial as a customized diet for dogs.
Understanding Gerbil Behaviour
Another pet owner, Sharon Leigh from Colchester, expressed concern about her gerbil, Gerty, who appears to go into a torpor-like state when cold. Sean explained that while gerbils do not hibernate, they can look lifeless when conserving energy in cooler temperatures. To ensure Gerty remains comfortable, he recommended maintaining a room temperature of between 18 and 24 degrees Celsius.
Sean shared a personal anecdote about nearly burying his brother’s hamster alive due to a similar misunderstanding, highlighting the importance of monitoring small pets closely.
Deterring Feline Intruders
Another query came from an anonymous pet owner concerned about a persistent Bengal cat entering their garden to hunt birds. Sean addressed the environmental challenges posed by free-roaming cats, noting that their hunting habits can significantly impact local wildlife.
He suggested installing motion-activated sprinklers and planting thorny shrubs around feeding areas. Additionally, he recommended placing bird feeders eight to ten feet high, away from potential launch pads like fences, to protect vulnerable bird species. For cat owners, using collar bells or “Birdsbesafe” bibs can reduce hunting success while making cats less stealthy.
Monitoring Senior Pet Health
Finally, Val Patwall from Preston raised concerns about her 13-year-old Patterdale Terrier, Jack, who has been on medication for arthritis. She noted new symptoms of panting, especially after rest, and questioned whether this was related to his age.
Sean commended Val for her diligence in monitoring Jack’s kidney function through regular blood tests. He explained that while medications like Rheumocam can be effective, their long-term use requires careful scrutiny. He advised that new symptoms like panting could indicate discomfort or other health issues, urging Val to consult her veterinarian for a thorough review.
Supporting Animal Welfare Initiatives
In addition to answering pet health queries, Sean’s insights come at a time when animal welfare is gaining attention. A new initiative has launched a nationwide map in the UK to connect potential pet adopters with reputable shelters. Collaborating with organizations like the Cheltenham Animal Shelter and Animals In Distress, this effort aims to guide future adopters towards ethical rescues.
Andrew Hale, an animal behaviour consultant at Pet Remedy, stated, “Adopting a pet is one of the most rewarding things you can do, but it’s also a responsibility.” The initiative follows calls for new legislation to ensure all animal shelters in England and Wales obtain proper licenses, enhancing the safety and welfare of animals in need.
Among the pets currently seeking homes is five-year-old Otis, a sensitive Labrador looking for an adult-only environment where he can thrive. More information about adopting pets can be found on the Pet Remedy website.
