PDSA Weekly Vet Q&As - February 13, 2024

Dear PDSA Vet, my friend is going travelling and I am moving into hers to look after her dog Peanut while she's gone. Any tips? Ellie 

Hi Ellie, Peanut won't understand where his owner has gone, so it's important to be understanding and stick to his daily routine, this will make life happier for both of you. Firstly, before your friend leaves, visit Peanut a few times, take him out for walks on your own, spending time with him, so you're not a stranger. Make sure your friend gives you all the details of Peanut's usual routine from what he eats, and what treats he likes, to what time he goes for walks and when his last toilet visit of the night is. Also what vet he's registered at, in case of illness or emergency. Peanut might miss his owner so it's a good idea to ask her to leave some familiar-smelling items like a blanket or old clothing. I'm sure in no time you'll be best of friends. Good luck! 

Dear PDSA Vet, how can I reduce dog aggression? Kerry 

Hi Kerry, if your dog is showing any changes in their behaviour, especially if they have started showing aggression suddenly, you should contact your vet immediately as this may be a sign of an underlying medical problem. Dog aggression can be a distressing and frightening problem for owners, but also for their dog as they are usually reacting through fear, frustration, or pain. Finding out the cause of your dog's aggression alongside your vet and a certified dog behaviourist is really important and will mean you are more likely to keep everyone safe and be able to give them the right treatment. If there are certain things that makes your dog act aggressively and you can avoid these before speaking to your vet, this can help prevent the problem from escalating further. It's a complicated issue and treatment will be individually tailored to your dog and your situation. Find out more here. 

Dear PDSA Vet, I think my rabbit Tommy is grinding his teeth. Why is this? Connor 

Hi Connor, there are two types of tooth grinding in rabbits. Quiet tooth grinding usually means rabbits are happy and relaxed, and it could mean they are wearing their front teeth down to keep them the right size and shape. However, loud or more noticeable tooth grinding usually indicates your rabbit might be unwell, in pain, or stressed. It's always best to contact your vet so they can assess him. It's important to act quickly if Tommy seems to be in pain as this could cause him to stop eating, which is very dangerous for rabbits. If he's showing other symptoms such as dropping food, sitting quietly, drooling or eating less than usual, take a note of this and remember to tell your vet. Find out more here.

Dear PDSA Vet, I know I need to get my cat Willow microchipped before June but I'm nervous it will hurt her. What exactly is it? Stevie  

Hi Stevie, you're right, as of 10th June 2024, it will become law for all cat owners in England to have their cat microchipped by 20 weeks of age. A microchip will be implanted under Willow's skin between her shoulder blades using a needle. Like any injection, microchipping can cause a tiny amount of discomfort but, fortunately, it's a very quick procedure that takes just a few seconds. The good news is most cats barely notice being microchipped, but a tasty treat afterwards is likely to quickly distract her if she does become upset! Microchips are made out of non-reactive materials, so once it's in place - it shouldn't hurt or cause her any problems throughout her life. Find out more: pdsa.org.uk/microchipping-cats 

For more information visit pdsa.org.uk  

PDSA is the UK's largest vet charity providing a vital service for pets across the UK whose owners struggle to afford treatment costs for their sick and injured pets. For many vulnerable pets, PDSA is there to help when there is nowhere else for their owners to turn. Support from players of People's Postcode Lottery helps us reach even more pet owners with vital advice and information.