Essentially Local July-August 2018

Pet Services
The Need for Neutering
Hundreds of unwanted kittens are cared for
and rehomed by RSPCA Milton Keynes and
North Bucks. With over 100 cats and kittens
currently waiting to be rehomed, the service
is stretched to breaking point and there is
serious concern about this overpopulation.
Contrary to popular belief, there is no
benefit in letting your cat have a litter of
kittens before being spayed. The RSPCA
recommends that you neuter your felines
as young as possible, before your cat
becomes pregnant. They can conceive at five
months and become pregnant again almost
immediately after giving birth.
To tackle feline overpopulation RSPCA
research emphasises the importance
of neutering female cats. They want to
encourage neutering male and female cats.
Sunburn and
pets
Protect your dogs from the harsh UV rays
of the sun when going on beach trips
and taking part in outdoor activities. Just
like humans, canines are susceptible to
painful burns and potential skin cancer.
Keep your dog safe.
As well as considering sunburn, think
about how hot roads and paths can burn
your pets’ paws. If it's too hot for your
own feet then it's too hot for your dog.
Avoid going for walks during the middle
of hot days and check the temperature of
the paths you are walking on. Make sure
to walk in the shade, or carry your dog if
you need to cross hot paths and roads.
For more information on RSPCA Milton Keynes & North
Bucks and the cats and small mammals in their care call
01908 611179, visit rspcamiltonkeynes.co.uk or follow
them on facebook mkrspca
Ticked off
Long walks in the countryside can mean your dog brings more
friends home than planned. Ticks tend to latch onto dogs and
cats, commonly around the face, neck and ears. Helen Wigley RVN
of The Vet Centre, Maids Moreton, says, “If the ticks are removed
incorrectly it can lead to minor skin infections that have to be
treated. They are also susceptible to more serious diseases like
Lymes disease. Preventative treatment is the best option. Pets
travelling to the continent may also be exposed to various tickborne
diseases that we don’t have in this country.”
Fleas
Fleas are also around as the temperature cools and if they get
inside your home are happy to enjoy a bit of central heating –
prevent them from setting up house and home!
The Vet Centre is currently assisting a research project looking into
which species of fleas are present in the UK and their distribution.
If you find fleas on your dog or cat contact them and they will
remove them for free and send them for analysis.
For more advice, please speak to your vets and keep your
pets safe!
Call the Vet Centre 01908 542155 or 01280 812057
thevetcentre.ltd.uk
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