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Warning issued as common toxic substance could 'kill dog in minutes'
Warning issued as common toxic substance could 'kill dog in minutes'

Daily Mirror

time3 days ago

  • Health
  • Daily Mirror

Warning issued as common toxic substance could 'kill dog in minutes'

Dog owners are being urged to keep their dogs away from a common toxic substance that is found in freshwater and which can make them extremely ill and even lead to death Be careful the next time you bring your dog out for a walk – a vet has warned that this common algae could kill them. ‌ Most dogs will get thirsty after walking through the park or playing a ball game – especially in the recent hot weather. This means they may end up taking a quick drink from a puddle, river or pond. But, a vet warns that this seemingly innocent act could be deadly. ‌ Dr Maryam Achoukhi, Veterinary Surgeon in partnership with the Pettifor Trust urges all dog owners to be vigilant about blue-green algae, as it can be found in British freshwaters. ‌ The algae, which are technically a type of bacteria called cyanobacteria, thrive in warm, calm and nutrient-rich environments like lakes, ponds and rivers. Part of what makes them particularly dangerous is that it's impossible to tell if a bloom is toxic just by looking at it. Dr Maryam Achoukhi explains: 'While the majority of species are harmless, a subset produces potent toxins that can cause rapid-onset neurotoxic or hepatotoxic effects.' She cautions that if your dog ingests or even makes contact with this water, it can make them extremely ill. Symptoms can appear within minutes to hours and include vomiting and diarrhoea, excessive drooling, muscle tremors and seizures and liver failure. In more severe cases, it can lead to death. Dr Achoukhi advises owners to keep their dogs away from water that appears scummy, discoloured, foamy or stagnant to protect them. To avoid this potentially devastating algae, your best bet is to bring a water bottle for your dog on a walk – which could be the difference between life and death. ‌ It's not the only issue that dog owners need to be on the look out for, either. A veterinary expert has recently cautioned owners over the prevalence of diarrhoea in their pets. According to a study conducted by the Royal Veterinary College (RVC) in the UK, one in every 12 dogs in the UK is diagnosed with diarrhoea-related issues each year, while certain breeds are more likely to experience episodes of 'the runs' than others. Sean McCormack, head vet at advised that while while diarrhoea is not normally considered an emergency in dogs (particularly if they are otherwise healthy), if the condition lasts beyond 24 to 48 hours, or if it appears intermittently over time, it's a good idea to contact your vet for guidance. Potential causes of diarrhoea in dogs vary, and include genetic predispositions, stress, ingesting foreign objects and even switching to a different brand of dog food.

Vet explains one sign that your dog could be seriously unwell
Vet explains one sign that your dog could be seriously unwell

Daily Mirror

time12-08-2025

  • Health
  • Daily Mirror

Vet explains one sign that your dog could be seriously unwell

It's never pleasant when your pet gets sick - fortunately, a vet has shared some key ways to recognise and treat diarrhoea in dogs so your fluffy pal can get better in no time It can be difficult to decipher when your furry pals are feeling unwell – now a vet has shared key signs to look out for that your dog is suffering from diarrhoea. ‌ According to a recent study conducted by the Royal Veterinary College (RVC) in the UK, which examined vet records from millions of dogs nationwide, one in every 12 dogs in the UK is diagnosed with diarrhoea-related issues each year, while certain breeds are more likely to experience episodes of 'the runs' than others. ‌ Based on the findings, the six breeds most prone to diarrhoea are Maltese, Miniature Poodles, Cavapoos, German Shepherds, Yorkshire Terriers and Cockapoos. ‌ However, Sean McCormack, head vet at has advised that while genetic predisposition can increase a dog's likelihood of developing digestive issues, there are other contributing factors. These include diet, food allergies, parasites, worms or gastrointestinal inflammation. Though it can be concerning if your pet develops these issues, it's important to remember that most cases of acute diarrhoea are mild, highly treatable, and don't require a follow-up vet visit. However, if loose stools become a recurring problem, your vet may recommend diagnostic tests to uncover any underlying causes. ‌ Sean says that, generally speaking, diarrhoea is not considered an emergency, especially if your dog is otherwise acting normally. But if the condition lasts beyond 24 to 48 hours, or if it appears intermittently over time, it's a good idea to contact your vet for guidance Potential causes of diarrhoea in dogs include genetic predispositions, stress, ingesting foreign objects and even switching to a different brand of dog food. To work out what's causing the tummy upset, you can conduct different diagnostic tests. These include faecal exams, which can detect parasites, and blood work, which can help identify issues such as kidney or liver disease, infection, and assess your dog's hydration and electrolyte status. ‌ You can also use X-rays, which can detect of foreign objects or abnormalities within the digestive tract, or, if an allergy is suspected, food elimination trials to pinpoint the ingredient causing the problem. In terms of treating diarrhoea, if dog has a predisposition to digestive issues, your vet may recommend switching to a diet that is easily digestible. While these specialised veterinary diets can sometimes be pricier, they can significantly help in managing symptoms and promoting gut health for your pet. Your vet may also advise briefly withholding food (generally for 12–24 hours), which can allow for the gastrointestinal tract to settle. However, this approach is generally avoided in puppies, senior dogs, or those with pre-existing medical conditions, as may not be able to handle fasting as well. In the case of a bacterial infection, your vet may prescribe antibiotics. Although, it's crucial important that antibiotics are only used when necessary as they can also disrupt the balance of healthy gut bacteria. Equally, probiotics may be recommended to restore beneficial gut bacteria. These can be found in fortified dog foods or provided by your vet in paste form. Some of the best ways to prevent diarrhoea include keeping vaccinations up to date, stay on top of parasite treatments, avoiding feeding your dog leftovers and removing swallowable hazards.

Thai-US talks to clarify tariff rules
Thai-US talks to clarify tariff rules

Bangkok Post

time06-08-2025

  • Business
  • Bangkok Post

Thai-US talks to clarify tariff rules

Thailand will have detailed discussions with the United States regarding their new tariff agreement this month, according to Chantawit Tantasith, a deputy commerce minister. 'The Office of the US Trade Representative informed Thailand that the US will resume detailed negotiations with us in late August to September, aiming to reach an agreement on the details of the reciprocal tariff text,' he said on Wednesday. Following these negotiations, the agreement will be presented to parliament for approval, said Mr Chantawit. He said the 19% tariff rate on Thai goods, which takes effect on Thursday, is positive as it helps Thai entrepreneurs to maintain their competitiveness. The rate, markedly lower than the 36% initially set by Washington, was announced after the Thai government agreed to eliminate import duties on more than 10,000 items imported from the US. Local content A major challenge still facing Thailand and its neighbours is agreeing on minimum local content levels, as Washington is taking a hard line on goods transshipped through other countries. In the case of Southeast Asia, that usually means products originating in China. The next step will be for Thai businesses to align with the principles of regional value content (RVC) and rules of origin to secure continued trade benefits. Mr Chantawit said further negotiations will delve into aspects such as market access, non-tariff barriers and product-specific tariff rates. Regarding the RVC negotiations, he said Thailand needs clearer communication from the US about its approach, as there is uncertainty about whether the US will allow bilateral discussions or if it plans to set RVC criteria unilaterally for Thailand. Washington might issue RVC criteria directly, but they could be tailored for specific countries or applied regionally, said Mr Chantawit. Once Thailand receives definitive information on the RVC, he said authorities can evaluate the benefits and drawbacks for Thai businesses, particularly small and medium-sized enterprises. Mr Chantawit said the International Institute for Trade and Development would oversee this matter, developing plans to gather feedback from both small and large businesses to assess the expected impact, necessary adaptations and support needed from the government. 'The outcomes of the negotiations must be balanced and ensure maximum benefits for Thailand,' he said. 'We have to consider the effects on all stakeholders before signing the agreement.' The ministry on Thursday will open a one-stop service centre at the Export Promotion Center on Ratchadaphisek Road in Bangkok to help entrepreneurs in adapting to new regulations and to navigate global competition.

Almost 2,200 dog attacks on Royal Mail staff last year
Almost 2,200 dog attacks on Royal Mail staff last year

BBC News

time30-06-2025

  • Health
  • BBC News

Almost 2,200 dog attacks on Royal Mail staff last year

Almost 2,200 dog attacks were recorded on Royal Mail staff in the UK last year, the organisation has highest number of incidents occurred in the Sheffield and Portsmouth post codes, with 66 and 60 attacks Royal Veterinary College (RVC) has raised concerns that dogs purchased during the Covid pandemic were more likely to display problem behaviours.A Royal Mail spokesperson said "dog attacks remain one of the most significant safety risks faced by postal workers". Ellenore King-Voisin, from Farnborough, Hampshire, was delivering mail to a property with two dogs – one of which she was concerned had an aggressive temperament."The dog jumped up at me and bit me three times just above the right knee. When I looked down, I could see the flesh on my leg hanging," she started screaming which caused the owner and his daughter to come rushing out. "I also startled the dog as it ran back into the house. I had to do my own first aid as the man and his daughter were crying," she recalledMs King-Voisin was taken to A&E, where her wound was treated and she was given a tetanus jab. As a result of the attack, she was off work for three weeks."If I hear or see a dog now – any dog - I'll freeze. I'll literally stop and wait until the owner walks past me because there's no way I'm taking a chance. "I feel as though I have to be ready to fight off an attack rather than it happen and I'm not aware," she said. Royal Mail said there were 2,197 dog attacks on its staff in the 2024-25 financial is down slightly from 2,206 the year before but the organisation included 53 weeks in the 2023-24 financial year. Adjusting for that extra week, 2024-25 is up 2% on the year before. Royal Mail reported a drop in significant injuries from dog attacks. There were 74 recorded last year, down from 82 in Sheffield postcode had the most incidents, with 66 reported, followed by 60 in the Portsmouth area. Dr Rowena Packer of the RVC said she was concerned a rise in dog ownership during the pandemic meant there are more dogs that "were less likely to be exposed to strangers visiting the home"."There's going to be more dogs that are uncomfortable with having strangers, potentially strangers in an unusual outfit."An RVC study published last year suggested dogs bought in the pandemic had higher rates of problem behaviours."We've got this current population of dog owners that don't have previous experience, that might be receiving unreliable and potentially dangerous advice on how to train their dog online," Dr Packer added that "older dogs can be taught an appropriate response"."One of the things I think people really miss out of their dog training is training dogs to settle, to relax, to go somewhere." Lizz Lloyd, health and safety director at Royal Mail, said: "Dog attacks remain one of the most significant safety risks faced by postal workers." "In many cases, these incidents result in serious injuries, emotional distress, and time away from work. "Royal Mail continues to call on the public to be vigilant and responsible by securing their pets before opening the door to receive mail or packages."

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