Debbie Martin Martin

Christmas Plants: Hidden Dangers for Cats

The festive season transforms our homes into cosy havens of lights, ornaments, and greenery. But for cat owners, many traditional holiday plants could spell trouble. Cats are naturally curious creatures, prone to nibbling or brushing against decorations, which can lead to severe health risks. Understanding the dangers and taking precautions will help you enjoy a stress-free Christmas with your feline friend.

Why Are Cats So Vulnerable?

Unlike dogs, cats are meticulous self-groomers. If they brush against a toxic plant, they’re likely to ingest any harmful substances while cleaning their fur. Additionally, their unique metabolism makes them more sensitive to certain toxins, as their livers lack the enzymes needed to break down many common plant compounds.

Holiday Plants to Watch Out For

Christmas Plants Poisonous to Dogs: A Guide for Pet Owners

The festive season brings joy and decorations, but certain holiday plants can pose serious risks to your furry friends. Many traditional Christmas plants contain substances that are toxic to dogs, causing anything from mild discomfort to severe health issues. Here's a guide to help UK pet owners keep their dogs safe this Christmas.

1. Poinsettias

Poinsettias are a popular choice for Christmas decor, but their sap can irritate a dog’s mouth and stomach. While not highly toxic, ingestion can cause drooling, vomiting, or diarrhoea. Keep these bright red plants out of reach to avoid unnecessary vet visits.

2. Mistletoe

Bringing a new pet into your home is exciting, but it also comes with great responsibility. Whether you’re expecting a playful puppy or a curious kitten under your tree this year, caring for your pet requires time, patience, and knowledge. To help you give your new companion the best start in life, we’ve compiled 10 essential tips for caring for your pet in 2025. 

These tips will help you nurture a strong bond with your new pet while ensuring their health and happiness.

1. Prepare Your Home for Your New Pet

Before bringing your new pet home, ensure that your living space is safe and ready for them. Remove any hazards, such as toxic plants or dangerous objects, and create a comfortable, secure space for them to settle into. For pets that need specific supplies, be sure to stock up on bedding, food, toys, and grooming essentials.

2. Visit the

Cushing’s Disease in Dogs and Treatment

If you’re a dog owner, you’ve probably heard of Cushing’s disease, also known as hyperadrenocorticism. This condition can affect dogs of any age but is most commonly diagnosed in middle-aged to older dogs. Understanding Cushing’s disease in dogs can help you spot the symptoms early and seek timely treatment.

What is Cushing’s disease in dogs?

Cushing’s disease occurs when your dog’s body produces excess cortisol, a crucial hormone in metabolism and stress response. There are two types of Cushing’s in dogs: pituitary-dependent and adrenal-dependent.

• In pituitary-dependent Cushing’s, a tumour on the pituitary gland causes it to release more adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH), leading to increased cortisol production.

The Benefits of Probiotics for Dogs

All dog owners want the best for their furry friends. One way to support your dog’s health is through probiotics. You might have heard about them in relation to human health, but dog probiotics are becoming increasingly popular and for good reason. Let’s dive into what they are and how they can benefit your pup.

What are probiotics?

Probiotics are live microorganisms that can provide health benefits when administered in adequate amounts. They are often called good bacteria because they help maintain a healthy gut flora balance. Like us, dogs rely on a thriving community of gut bacteria to aid digestion, support their immune system, and promote overall wellness.

It’s hard to believe that in a few short months, we’ll be saying goodbye to 2024 and welcoming in 2025. Let’s have a round-up of the most popular dog names of 2024. 

Whether your four-legged friend's name is top of the list or this lift inspires a future pooch name, we hope you’ll find it interesting. 

The names we choose often reflect our personalities, preferences, and even the breeds we adore. This year, several names have risen to the top, capturing the hearts of pet parents everywhere. Here’s a look at the most popular dog names for 2024!

1. Luna

Taking the crown as the most popular dog name overall is Luna. This enchanting name is particularly favoured among breeds like Cocker Spaniels, German Shepherds, and Staffies. Inspired by the moon, Luna embodies a sense of mystery and beauty, making it a

It’s hard to believe that in three months, we’ll be waving goodbye to 2024 and welcoming in the new year with ample Prosseco and midnight kisses (if that’s your style). We thought now would be a great time to reflect back on some of the most popular cat names we’ve been loving in 2024. 

Trends come and go, but something that reigns true year after year is the fact people love to use human names for their pets and often will take inspiration from celebrities and favourite shows. 

It can be tricky to decide what to call your beloved feline companion. Some opt for cutesy names, whereas others want something bold and unique. You may be reading this blog to see if your own furry friend's name has made it into the top ten or for some inspiration on what to name a new cat that’s coming your way in the new year. 

If you’re undecided on whether

Lungworm in Dogs: Symptoms, Treatment and Prevention

Lungworm is a parasitic worm that poses a significant health risk to dogs. These pesky parasites can cause severe respiratory issues and other complications, so dog owners must be informed about lungworm, its symptoms, treatment options and prevention strategies. Here’s a straightforward guide to understanding lungworm and keeping your furry friend safe.

What is lungworm?

Lungworm, scientifically known as Angiostrongylus vasorum, primarily affects dogs and foxes. It’s a type of roundworm that lives in the blood vessels supplying the lungs and can travel to other parts of the body. Dogs can become infected by ingesting larvae commonly found in slugs, snails and frogs. Even drinking from puddles or eating grass contaminated with slug or snail slime can lead to infection.

Symptoms of lungworm

Dogs have long been known as man’s best friend due to their loyalty, abounding love and the sense of purpose they bring to those who care for them. 

The diversity of breeds is a testament to the rich tapestry of canine history. However, knowing what breed to choose when searching for a new four-legged friend can be challenging. 

Let's journey through the alphabet, exploring a popular dog breed for each letter and offering brief insights into their characteristics, health concerns, and care requirements. We hope this will aid you in making an informed decision when you feel the time is right.

*Disclaimer. Just because a common health issue is listed does not mean every dog of that breed will contract it. If you’re concerned about your dog's health, please contact your veterinarian, who will advise you on the next steps. 

Like humans, dogs can suffer from a range of eye problems. These issues can vary in severity, from minor irritations to more severe conditions that require veterinary attention. Proper care and early intervention are crucial for your dog’s eye health.

1. Conjunctivitis (Pink Eye)

Conjunctivitis, or pink eye, is an inflammation of the conjunctiva, the membrane that covers the white part of the eye and lines the eyelids. This condition can be caused by allergies, bacteria, viruses, or irritants like smoke or shampoo. Symptoms include redness, swelling, discharge, and excessive blinking or squinting.

Care tips:

• Clean the eye area with a damp cotton ball to remove discharge.
• Use prescribed antibiotic