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Daily Record
3 hours ago
- Health
- Daily Record
The 'correct' way to brush your dog and common grooming mistakes to avoid
Shedding is a natural part of a dog's cycle but it often comes with uncomfortable skin irritation and allergies Keeping your dog's coat spick and span can be a rather laborious task. And as late summer turns to autumn, many dog owners notice their homes filling with a little more fur than usual. Shedding is a natural part of a dog's seasonal cycle, but it's often accompanied by uncomfortable skin irritation and allergies that leave our pets scratching and licking. While many owners reach for a quick fix, an expert says the way you're brushing your dog could be making things worse. Join the Daily Record WhatsApp community! Get the latest news sent straight to your messages by joining our WhatsApp community today. You'll receive daily updates on breaking news as well as the top headlines across Scotland. No one will be able to see who is signed up and no one can send messages except the Daily Record team. All you have to do is click here if you're on mobile, select 'Join Community' and you're in! If you're on a desktop, simply scan the QR code above with your phone and click 'Join Community'. We also treat our community members to special offers, promotions, and adverts from us and our partners. If you don't like our community, you can check out any time you like. To leave our community click on the name at the top of your screen and choose 'exit group'. If you're curious, you can read our Privacy Notice. According to data from M&S Bank Pet Insurance, the average claim cost for a dog's skin condition is approximately £692.84, with specialist consultations costing even more. However, a dog health expert says that a few simple changes to your grooming routine and diet could prevent these issues before they even start. "Many dog owners believe that brushing is just about tidying up their dog's coat, but it's a critical part of their overall health," says Simon Crawshaw, a grain-free dog food specialist at Hilltop Pet Food. "Using the wrong tools or brushing at the wrong time can actually cause more harm, trapping dead hair and allergens against the skin, which can lead to painful irritation and infections. The 'correct' way to brush your dog: A multi-step routine Simon explains that proper grooming is a multi-step process that goes beyond a simple brush-over. Start with a de-shedding tool: Before you reach for a regular brush, use a tool designed to safely remove a dog's undercoat. This gets rid of the dead, loose hair that often causes mats and traps heat and allergens. This is especially important for double-coated breeds like Labradors and Huskies. Use the right brush: Once the undercoat is thinned, use a slicker brush for dogs with longer hair or a bristle brush for those with shorter coats. This helps to distribute natural oils, stimulate the skin, and give the coat a healthy shine. The key is to follow the direction of the hair growth and avoid pressing too hard. Address the diet: Grooming is only half the battle. A dog's coat and skin health starts from the inside. "If a dog is on a poor-quality diet with low-grade ingredients, their skin barrier and immune system can be compromised," Simon explained. "This can lead to excessive shedding, a dull coat, and an overreaction to seasonal allergens like pollen and grass." By providing a high-quality, grain-free diet with a high meat content, you're giving your dog the essential nutrients and fatty acids needed to support a healthy coat and skin, making them less reactive to environmental triggers. Common grooming mistakes to avoid Over-bathing Bathing too often strips your dog's coat of its natural oils, which can cause dry, itchy skin. For most dogs, once every four to six weeks is plenty. Brushing a wet coat Never brush your dog's coat when it's wet. This can tighten knots, making them painful to remove. Always towel-dry your dog thoroughly beforehand. Using the wrong tools Not all brushes are created equal. Use a wire brush for some breeds and a rake for others. Make sure you have the right tool for your dog's specific coat type to prevent skin irritation.
Daily Mail
19-07-2025
- Health
- Daily Mail
Expert issues urgent warning over common plant in the UK that could be FATAL to your dog
An expert has issued an urgent warning to dog owners over a plant and which could prove fatal to their pooches. With fields drying out, and wild grasses going to seed, foxtails - the sharp, barbed tips of certain grasses - are becoming increasingly prevalent in the UK. While they may appear harmless, they can burrow into dogs' paws, ears or skin and cause painful infections. And this time of year sees grass seed injuries in dogs spike, with July, August and September seeing the highest number of cases, according to Simon Crawshaw, dog nutrition expert at grain-free dog food supplier Hilltop Pet Food. One third of all grass seed injury claims last year were made in July alone. Simon noted that knowing the signs can make all the difference if your dog is already affected. He said: 'Foxtails might seem harmless, but once they embed into a dog's skin or ears, they can cause serious problems. 'They don't break down naturally and can travel deeper into the body, sometimes leading to infections or abscesses. Catching them early is crucial, especially after walks through fields or long grass.' He shared tips with dog owners so they can keep vigilant and try to reduce the riak of their pets being affected by the plants. When it comes to what to look out for, Simon noted that foxtails are most common in long, dry grasses, especially in fields, countryside paths, and parks that haven't been cut back. They tend to attach themselves to fur and then migrate into the body. Common signs of foxtail-related injuries include: sudden limping or paw licking; redness or swelling between toes; head shaking or ear scratching; sneezing, coughing, or nasal discharge (if inhaled); and sudden sensitivity around the groin or armpits. According to the expert, people who notice any of these symptoms in their dog should take their canine to be checked by a vet. The sooner a foxtail is removed, the lower the risk of infection or deeper migration. When it comes to protecting your dog during foxtail season, Simon recommends making a few small changes to your routine during the summer months. 'Dogs with longer or curlier coats are more at risk, as foxtails can get lost in the fur and go unnoticed,' he said. 'A simple brush-down after each walk can save you a lot of stress and a potentially costly vet bill.' He added that when it comes to fighting injury in general, dogs should be fed an optimum diet and kept in peak condition, as a dog's overall health can impact how they recover if they do get injured. 'Dogs on a high-quality, nutrient-rich diet tend to heal faster and have stronger immune responses,' he explained. 'Good food won't stop a foxtail, but it can support their recovery and reduce the risk of infections getting worse.' Simon also noted that while foxtails 'might not be on every dog owner's radar', they're one of the most common summer hazards for UK dogs, especially now, as grasses dry out and go to seed. He noted that a quick check after walks, a bit of fur maintenance, and awareness of the signs can 'go a long way in keeping your dog safe and happy this summer'.
Daily Record
19-07-2025
- Health
- Daily Record
Scots dog owners urged to check for common danger in grass and it's not ticks
This hidden hazard can seriously injure your dog and it grows throughout July, August and September. Scots have seen their fair share of sun recently, with last weekend's heatwave bringing us the hottest day for two years. But as warm weather dries out the Scottish fields, a hidden danger takes over the countryside, and it can seriously injure your dog. When wild grass goes to seed, sharp, barbed tips of certain grasses grow rampant. They may look harmless, but foxtails can burrow into dogs' paws, ears or skin and cause painful infections. A recent report found that grass seed injuries in dogs spike every summer, with July, August and September seeing the highest number of cases. A third of all grass seed injury claims last year were made in July alone, so it's crucial that dog owners stay vigilant. With this in mind, Simon Crawshaw, dog nutrition expert at grain-free dog food supplier Hilltop Pet Food, has issued some advice to owners on how to prevent and spot injuries in your dog from foxtails this summer. The expert said: 'Foxtails might seem harmless, but once they embed into a dog's skin or ears, they can cause serious problems. "They don't break down naturally and can travel deeper into the body, sometimes leading to infections or abscesses. Catching them early is crucial, especially after walks through fields or long grass.' Signs of foxtail injury Foxtails are most common in long, dry grasses, especially in fields, countryside paths, and parks that haven't been cut back. They tend to attach themselves to fur and then migrate into the body. Common signs of foxtail injury include: Sudden limping or paw licking Redness or swelling between toes Head shaking or ear scratching Sneezing, coughing, or nasal discharge (if inhaled) Sudden sensitivity around the groin or armpits If you notice any of these signs after a walk, it's best to get your dog checked by a vet. The sooner a foxtail is removed, the lower the risk of infection or deeper migration, said the expert. How to protect your dog during foxtail season Simon recommends making a few small changes to your routine during the summer months: Check after every walk: Run your hands over your dog's fur, especially paws, ears, belly and armpits to feel for any stuck seeds. Trim fur where possible: Especially around the feet, ears and tail. This makes it harder for foxtails to latch on. Avoid long grass: Stick to well-cut paths or keep dogs on a lead when walking through overgrown areas. Use a brush or damp cloth: After walks, give your dog a quick wipe down to dislodge any seeds before they work their way in. The expert concluded: 'Dogs with longer or curlier coats are more at risk, as foxtails can get lost in the fur and go unnoticed. "A simple brush-down after each walk can save you a lot of stress and a potentially costly vet bill.' Join the Daily Record WhatsApp community! Get the latest news sent straight to your messages by joining our WhatsApp community today. You'll receive daily updates on breaking news as well as the top headlines across Scotland. No one will be able to see who is signed up and no one can send messages except the Daily Record team. All you have to do is click here if you're on mobile, select 'Join Community' and you're in! If you're on a desktop, simply scan the QR code above with your phone and click 'Join Community'. We also treat our community members to special offers, promotions, and adverts from us and our partners. If you don't like our community, you can check out any time you like. To leave our community click on the name at the top of your screen and choose 'exit group'.
Daily Record
16-07-2025
- Health
- Daily Record
Urgent warning to dog owners of hidden hazard in Scottish lochs this summer
Dogs who come into contact with the substance risk bouts of vomiting, diarrhoea and even seizures Dog owners are being urged to be cautious when walking their pooches by Scotland's beautiful lochs, thanks to the emergence of a hazard that is dangerous to pets. While Scots enjoyed an intense heatwave over last weekend (July 11 - July 13), we've seen widespread downpours this week that brought an abrupt end to the sunny spell. But this erratic weather has caused an influx of a little-known hazard in Scottish lochs and ponds which can be dangerous for dogs and humans alike. As such, pooch parents are being encouraged to stay on high alert when on walks or swims for poisonous blue-green algae, which thrives in these recent weather conditions. Blue-green algae is not actually an alga, but rather a type of bacteria called cyanobacteria, according to the Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs. If ingested, even in small amounts, it can release harmful toxins that can have serious effects on a pooch's liver and nervous system, which can result in vomiting, diarrhoea or even seizures. With this in mind, Simon Crawshaw, dog nutritionist at Hilltop Pet Food is urging dog owners to keep an eye out for the signs of this toxic bacteria. The expert says knowing what to look out for is essential given the recent warm and wet weather. Crawshaw said: "At this time of year, it's really common for certain bodies of water to become less safe, especially after a warm spell followed by rain. "Most owners just want to do the right thing for their dogs, and being aware of what blue-green algae looks like, and what signs to watch for is one of the simplest ways to stay safe while still enjoying summer walks.' Here's what the expert shared about spotting blue-green algae and keeping your pet safe from it. How to spot blue-green algae in lochs this summer Blue-green algae is not always easy to spot, warned the experts. It can appear as a greenish scum or film on the water's surface, or cause the water to have a cloudy, murky appearance. The toxic algae tends to build up around the edges of still or slow-moving water, especially in warm, nutrient-rich environments, which are the exact conditions much of Scotland is seeing right now. The symptoms of blue-green algae poisoning in dogs If your dog has ingested blue-green algae, symptoms can appear within minutes, and slower reactions can occur within hours. Symptoms of blue-green algae poisoning in dogs include: vomiting diarrhoea excessive drooling rapid panting weakness disorientation difficulty breathing seizures How to keep your dog safe from blue-green algae The experts have shared several tips to protect your dog from ingesting the poisonous algae this summer. Avoid stagnant or suspicious-looking water: If the surface looks scummy, greenish, or unusual, don't let your dog drink from or swim in it Stick to running water: Streams and rivers are generally safer than still ponds or lochs, particularly after rainfall Rinse off after swims: If your dog has been in natural water, rinse their coat with clean water as soon as possible to reduce any risk Watch for signs: If your dog shows any unusual behaviour after a walk or swim, especially vomiting, shaking, or acting confused, contact your vet immediately Local councils and environmental agencies will also sometimes post blue-green algae warnings near affected areas, so keep an eye out for any alerts online. 'You don't need to stop enjoying the outdoors,' adds Simon. 'It's just about staying informed and making small decisions that keep your dog safe. A bit of extra caution goes a long way.' Join the Daily Record WhatsApp community! Get the latest news sent straight to your messages by joining our WhatsApp community today. You'll receive daily updates on breaking news as well as the top headlines across Scotland. No one will be able to see who is signed up and no one can send messages except the Daily Record team. All you have to do is click here if you're on mobile, select 'Join Community' and you're in! If you're on a desktop, simply scan the QR code above with your phone and click 'Join Community'. We also treat our community members to special offers, promotions, and adverts from us and our partners. If you don't like our community, you can check out any time you like. To leave our community click on the name at the top of your screen and choose 'exit group'.
Daily Mail
16-07-2025
- Climate
- Daily Mail
Expert issues urgent warning to dog owners over fatal bacteria in UK - and there's no cure
An expert has warned dog owners they should be cautious when taking their pets for walks and swims. Following the recent warm weather, and heavy rains forecast to follow this week, blue-green algae, which can bloom as a result of mixed weather, has sprung up in lakes and ponds in popular walking spots. Dog walkers should remain alert and keep an eye out for the algae, as it can be dangerous for animals. Among the areas affected by the blue-green algae are bodies of water in parts of Cumbria and Lancashire, Llandrindod Lake in Wales, and Loch Watten in Scotland. Simon Crawshaw, dog nutrition expert at dog food supplier Hilltop Pet Food, told the Mirror: 'At this time of year, it's really common for certain bodies of water to become less safe, especially after a warm spell followed by rain. 'Most owners just want to do the right thing for their dogs.' He added that people should make sure they know what the algae looks like, and what signs they should look out for, to ensure they can enjoy Summer walks, while still staying safe. 'You don't need to stop enjoying the outdoors,' Simon said. 'It's just about staying informed and making small decisions that keep your dog safe. A bit of extra caution goes a long way.' Blue-green algae, or cyanobacteria, is a group of bacteria that can contain dangerous toxins harmful and potentially fatal to pets, livestock and birds even if ingested even in small quantities. The algae can appear as a film, or greenish scum, on the surface of water, or it may make water appear cloudy. When ingested by dogs, even if they only consume a small amount, it can make the animals extremely ill - or even be fatal. Canines can come into contact with the toxins in the algae by either drinking affected water, or licking it off their fur after swimming in it. Speaking previously about the algae, the British Veterinary Association (BVA) urged pet owners to watch out for the algae near freshwater bodies, warning that there is no known antidote. British Veterinary Association President Malcolm Morley said: 'Toxic blue-green algae is very difficult to identify and, if ingested, can make dogs seriously unwell – and can even be fatal. 'We're urging pet owners to keep their dogs on leads near water bodies where blue-green algae has been confirmed or, if unsure if a water body is safe, to keep them away from it completely. 'There is no known antidote for the toxins and prompt treatment is critical to help give a chance of recovery. 'Symptoms can appear within a few minutes or hours of exposure, and commonly include vomiting, diarrhoea, drooling, disorientation, trouble breathing, seizures, and blood in faeces. 'If you have any concerns or are worried your pet may have had contact with blue-green algae, speak to your vet as soon as you can.' People can try to find out if there is algae in their walking spot by checking for warnings, which are sometimes posted by councils and environmental agencies near affected areas. If an animal comes into contact into blue-green algae, they should be rinsed off immediately, and treatment instantly sought. It can also affect humans, who should also rinse off themselves off instantly if they come into contact with the growth - before seeking medical attention. WHAT IS THE DEADLY ALGAE? Blue-green algae is a type of bacteria (called cyanobacteria) that shares some of the same characteristics as plants. Blue-green algae exists all over the world and is found naturally in many inland waters, estuaries and the sea. Blue-green algae generally grows in lakes, ponds, and slow-moving streams when the water is warm and enriched with nutrients like phosphorus or nitrogen. The algae is very small and can't be seen with the naked eye unless it is concentrated into clumps. It tends to look like green flakes, greenish bundles or brown dots in the water. When environmental conditions are just right, blue-green algae can grow very quickly. It is buoyant and floats to the surface, where it forms scum layers or floating mats. An extensive growth is sometimes referred to as a bloom. What are the health risks? Blue-green algae is capable of producing several different toxins. People may be exposed to these toxins through contact with the skin (e.g. when swimming), through inhalation (e.g. when motor boating or water skiing), or by swallowing contaminated water. These toxins can cause skin rashes, nausea, vomiting, stomach pains, fever and headaches. Occasionally, the toxins can cause more serious illness such as liver and brain damage. Children are at greater risk than adults of developing problems because of their lower body weight. How can the health risks be minimised? Not all blue-green algae blooms and scums are toxic but it is not possible to tell from appearance and so it's best to assume they are harmful and take the following precautions: Do not swim in the water Do not swallow the water Avoid contact with the algae Do not eat fish caught from the water Observe and abide by any warning notices positioned around the water Anyone who has come into contact with water containing blue-green algae should shower with fresh water immediately. Anyone who has come into contact with affected water and has become ill should seek medical attention.
