Latest news with #SamanthaButler-Davies
Wales Online
11-06-2025
- Health
- Wales Online
Symptoms every pet owner should check for during summer
Symptoms every pet owner should check for during summer A vet said it is "important to watch out" for a number of symptoms in your pets during summer A vet shared the symptoms pet owners should look for (Image: Catherine Falls Commercial via Getty Images ) A vet has urged pet owners to be aware the signs of hay fever in their furry friends during the summer months. While hay fever is a well-known cause of discomfort for up to one in five Brits, it may come as a surprise that pets can also be affected. Unlike humans who typically exhibit symptoms such as sneezing, runny noses, and itchy eyes, pets with pollen allergies often show signs through their skin. These can include itchiness, redness, or irritation. As the weather warms and plants release more pollen, your pet's skin may become increasingly uncomfortable, reports the Express. Pets at Home Veterinary Services Director, Dr Samantha Butler-Davies MRCVS, has outlined the key symptoms to look out for and how best to treat them. Symptoms of 'hay fever' in dogs and cats She explained: "This can cause your pet's skin to appear red, sore, or flaky and, in very severe cases, can lead to the skin getting infected and them losing patches of fur. Make sure to seek advice from your vet if the skin becomes particularly inflamed. Dr Butler-Davies also highlighted the importance of tracking your pet's symptoms, saying: "It's also worth remembering that different kinds of pollen can trigger 'hay fever' in your pet, so keeping a diary of their symptoms can help you identify the most probable cause." A vet shared a number of symptoms pet owners should look for (Image: Getty ) Article continues below Treating a pet's 'hay fever' When it comes to treatment, she advised: "It's always best to consult your vet to determine whether your pet's symptoms are indeed 'hay fever' and then discuss the most suitable treatments. This could encompass a variety of options, which your vet will guide you through. "It's important to remember that skin irritation can also be caused by other conditions, including allergies to something other than pollen, such as fleas, dust mites or something your pet has eaten. "If you're unsure, or if you have any questions about 'hay fever', it's always best to book an appointment with your vet." Article continues below Reducing the impact of 'hay fever' Dr Sam advised on mitigating the effects of 'hay fever' in pets: "While you can't prevent 'hay fever' entirely, there are steps you can take that can help decrease your pet's exposure to pollen." She added: "If possible, avoid going outdoors when the pollen count is at its highest, which is usually around midday in the months between late March and September. It's best to go for walks early in the morning or late at night instead, when the pollen count is lower - the Met Office shares the latest pollen forecast on its website. "Gently wiping your pet's coat and feet after they've been outside will help to remove some of the pollen. On top of that regularly washing their bedding and vacuuming the house will be beneficial by removing any pollen that has found its way indoors."
Glasgow Times
03-05-2025
- Health
- Glasgow Times
Is plant fertiliser bad for dogs? Vet explains the dangers
With the weather improving, Brits will no doubt spend more time in their garden. One of the major products used by keen gardeners across the UK may be plant fertiliser. However, dog owners planning to use fertiliser should be aware of the risks it poses to their dogs. Is plant fertiliser bad for dogs? Vet explains the dangers While plant fertiliser may be fine on its own, many contain weed killer or other ingredients that can pose issues. Dr Samantha Butler-Davies is a member of the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons and Veterinary Services Director at Pets at Home. She has warned pet owners that many common garden fertilisers can contain substances that can be "highly toxic to pets, particularly dogs". Dr Butler Davies continued: 'Ingredients such as nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, iron and sometimes even pesticides or herbicides are found in these products and while they're beneficial for plant health, they can be very dangerous if ingested by animals. 'Dogs are naturally curious and may sniff, lick or even eat fertiliser granules or residues from treated grass and soil. "This can lead to a range of symptoms, including vomiting, diarrhoea, drooling, tremors and in severe cases, seizures. "Some organic or 'natural' fertilisers, especially those containing bone meal, can be particularly tempting to pets but still pose a serious risk." Dr Butler-Davies advised pet owners to keep animals indoors while fertiliser is being applied and to wait 24 to 48 hours before allowing them back near treated areas. However, this can vary depending on the product, so check the manufacturer's recommendations. "Fertilisers and garden chemicals should also be stored securely and out of reach of inquisitive paws", she added. What should I do if my dog eats plant fertiliser? Dr Butler-Davies urged Brits to "act quickly" if they suspect their pet has eaten or come into contact with fertiliser. She said: "Contact your local vet immediately and if you can, bring the product packaging with you so your vet can assess the ingredients and treat accordingly.' Are there pet-friendly fertilisers to use? Ben Agnew, grass expert at Lawnsmith suggested opting for "granular or pelleted products". He said: "These settle well down into the turf once applied, are generally not very noticeable, and are unlikely to be hoovered up by your pet if it decides to try snacking on some greenery." Pet owners could opt for plain fertiliser with no weed killer or fertiliser with iron, although the second could stain paws. Recommended reading: Lawnsmith also recommends avoiding liquid feed or feed that needs to be watered in. Other natural alternatives would also work well in strengthening the growth of your plants. These include seaweed, manure and compost, which are safer for pets than shop-bought fertilisers.
