PDSA Weekly Vet Q&A

Dear PDSA Vet, my dog, Diego prefers to be walked using a harness, over a collar. Does he still need to wear a collar as well when we are out and about? Thanks Jules 

Hi Jules, yes, he does, as per the Control of Dogs Order 1992, all pet dogs in public need to wear a collar and tag with their owner's information. The information required includes your name and address, including your postcode. Should your dog suddenly run off or become lost, the information on his collar ensures that you can be reunited as quickly as possible, as well as avoiding a hefty fine from the local authority. It's also just as important to have this same information kept up to date on the microchip database you are registered with. Find out more here: pdsa.org.uk/dog-laws 

Dear PDSA Vet, my hamster Nibbles chews at the bars on his cage, is this normal? Frederick 

Hi Frederick, it sounds as though you've named Nibbles perfectly! Hamsters need to chew to stop their teeth from growing too long. They need to gnaw on hard foods to keep their teeth trimmed and healthy, foods like seeds and grains work well, plus occasional bits of fruit or vegetables like carrots, but you can also try appropriate chew toys too. It is important to be aware, hamsters can chew out of boredom as well, so ensure Nibbles has a big enough enclosure, full of plenty of opportunities to run, hide, climb and play. Find out more about caring for hamsters here: pdsa.org.uk/hamsters

Dear PDSA Vet, my dog Rolo loves running through the long grass, but I worry about him getting ticks – what can I do to prevent them? Thanks Claudia 

Hi Claudia, ticks can often be found in long grass during the warmer months, so you're right to be cautious. There are several steps you can take, one being using a regular parasite control that covers for ticks - so any tick that attaches to your dog should die, and drop off within 24-48 hours, but it's best to speak to your vet to find the right treatment for Rolo. Avoid places known for ticks such as long grass, stick to paths and open spaces instead if possible - though Rolo might not want to give up his favourite walk! Be sure to regularly check him for ticks after walks, removing any you find. You'll most commonly find ticks on your dog's head, ears, armpits and belly, but it's good to give Rolo a thorough check all over. Find out more about ticks here: pdsa.org.uk/ticks-on-dogs   

Dear PDSA Vet, my cat was recently taking medication, but after being seen again, my vet recommended a new approach before all the medication was finished from the first treatment. What can I do with the unused medication? Thank you Lisa 

Hi Lisa, medications that have been dispensed by your vet can't then be reused by another pet by law, so would need to be disposed of. You can do this yourself, but the best thing to do is hand the unused medication back to your vet when you next visit, and they will be able to dispose of any unused medication properly for you. 

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.