Dear PDSA Vet, my eight-year-old Shih Tzu Sally seems underweight, is there any food available specifically for older dogs that will help her put on a little weight? Jack
Hi Jack, I would recommend having Sally checked by your vet, as there could be a medical cause why she is underweight. They can advise you what her correct weight should be and let you know if there has been any...
Dear PDSA Vet, should I let my cat have a litter before spaying? Kat
Hi Kat, it's a myth that pets should have a litter before neutering, there are no proven benefits to this. Neutering has many health benefits, which include stopping the chance of developing cancer of the ovaries or womb, as well as pyometra – a potentially deadly womb infection. Neutering can also calm the urge to...
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...
Dear PDSA Vet, I think my dog Coco has an ear infection as she keeps scratching her ear. What should I do? Harry
Hi Harry, an ear infection is an irritating and painful overgrowth of bacteria or yeast in the ear canal, usually caused by an underlying condition such as ear mites, a skin problem, or excess earwax. Ear scratching, pain and head shaking are all common symptoms of an...
Pets are part of the family – they give unconditional love and are always there for us, through the ups and downs. That's why the vet charity for pets in need, PDSA, is reminding pet owners the importance of pet insurance should the worst happen.
"It's our responsibility to take care of our furry family members," explains PDSA Vet Nurse Nina Downing. "And unless you are fortunate...
In an effort to raise awareness of shopping pre-loved, PDSA are calling on the local community to 'vet your clothes' – by having a purposeful clear out, donating items they no longer need to its charity outlets.
Emma Phillpott, Retail Development Manager at PDSA said: "We know having a clear out can seem like a huge task, but we're hoping the relaunch of Vet Your Clothes will be a...
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...
Enjoying the Great British countryside with your dog is a wonderful experience but often walking them in the cold winter months can seem a chore. PDSA vets together with PDSA Pet Insurance are reminding pet owners of the importance of getting out and about with your dog despite the colder weather by sharing their favourite winter walks across England.
When your pet gets ill or is injured, it's a big concern, especially since it can be very expensive and difficult to afford. To avoid stressing you out with unexpected bills, here are 5 things to consider when it comes to covering your pet's health, according to an expert from Petplan, including tips on what to do if you find yourself in a tricky financial situation.