These seeds have a rough bristly texture which allows them to attach easily to dogs’ hair. They are covered with a one-way arrangement of tiny barbs which act like a ratchet, propelling the seed into ears, up noses, under eyelids and burrowing into the skin between the toes, in the armpits or under the ribcage.

Do check your pet after each walk, and if you find any seeds caught in the fur remove them at once. If you find any swellings between the toes or on the body, or your pet starts shaking their head violently, sneezing or coughing, do have them checked over by your vet as soon as possible.

Boarding kennels?

Remember to check your pet’s vaccinations are up to date. Most kennels ask that dogs are vaccinated against kennel cough and this vaccine should be given at least 3 weeks before going into kennels to allow full immunity to develop.

Holidays:

If your pet is travelling with you, do update your microchip database with your temporary address, and have your details also attached to their collar. Make sure your pet’s parasite control program is up to date and that you travel with a tick hook.

Cool Bunnies:

Rabbits would normally be living down holes in the heat of the day, so help them to keep cool by providing plenty of shade, a cold tile to lie on, ice cubes in the water bowls and a gentle cooling mist around the ears. And please apply fly prevention and check their bottoms twice daily!

by Jacky Macqueen