PDSA Weekly Vet Q&As - January 30, 2024

PDSA Vet Nurse Nina Downing answers your questions

Dear PDSA Vet, my dog Benji died over Christmas and I'm really struggling. How can I cope with this loss? Thanks, Lisa  

Hi Lisa, I'm so sorry to hear about the loss of your pet. The grief of losing a pet can feel very overwhelming, with so many mixed and confusing emotions to manage. Although grief is painful and hard, please know that your feelings are normal, and reflect the special bond you had with your pet. Take your time to work through your grief in whatever way feels right to you, and consider speaking to friends and family if you feel ready. Some people prefer to speak with a counsellor, a local support organisation, or a charity that provides bereavement support instead. Everyone works through grief at their own pace, but eventually the pain will ease, and you may even be able to remember those happy memories. There's more advice here: www.pdsa.org.uk/bereavement 

Dear PDSA Vet, what should I consider when getting an exotic pet? Mikey  

Hi Mikey, before deciding to get any pet, it's important to consider whether you can provide for their 5 Welfare Needs - everything they need to be happy and healthy. 'Exotic' animals have the same needs if kept as pets as they would in the wild, which can make caring for them difficult as they have more complex needs than your average cat or dog. It's important to do your research when considering if this is the right pet for you. All exotic pets are different and will have different needs depending which species you choose. Whether it's a specific environment such as access to heating and lighting, or specialist diet, it's vital to understand all this information before committing to taking one home. Some species will also need a licence or other legal paperwork to keep them as pets. Also, not all vets will have the equipment and expertise to treat your exotic pet should they become unwell or injured. You can use Find a Vet Practice - Find A Vet (rcvs.org.uk) to research in your local area.  

Dear PDSA Vet, my partner Shannon is pregnant with our first baby. How can I prepare my dog for our baby's arrival? Thanks, Anthony 

Hi Anthony, getting your dog used to changes before baby arrives can help everything go more smoothly. Making sure their first experiences are positive ones can help your pet and baby grow into best friends. Get your pet used to other people so they are more relaxed when visitors arrive and depend on you less.  Ask friends, family or a dog walker to walk your dog regularly during the pregnancy, so they become used to it. If there are any rooms in the house that will become 'pet free' when baby is born, start getting your pet used to these new rules well before the birth. Playing baby soundtracks around the home during pregnancy and offering treats while it's played will build positive associations. Once baby has arrived, place any worn clothes or blankets around home, they'll soon smell familiar, ready for when baby is brought home. Good luck!  

Dear PDSA Vet, all the news about dog attacks has made me worried. How do I stay safe around dogs? Jonny  

Hi Jonny, the recent string of attacks is very distressing to many but it's important to remember that the vast majority of dogs in the UK are not dangerous. However, it's always best to be cautious, calm, and quiet when interacting with dogs. Any dog can become aggressive if they are afraid or feel there is no other way out of the situation. The warning signs that a dog may attack include (but are not limited to): growling, snarling, snapping, baring teeth, lunging. Never approach an unknown dog without checking with their owner first and always ask the owner before stroking. If you do see a dog that is outside alone, call the council or report the dog here, rather than approaching them. We also recommend that you never run or shout around an unfamiliar dog.  

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. www.pdsa.org.uk