Dog Health

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

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.

When it comes to our four-legged friends, nutrition plays a pivotal role in their overall health and well-being. At 365VET, we understand that choosing the right dog food can be a daunting task for pet owners. With a myriad of options available, it’s essential to make informed decisions based on your dog's specific needs. 

We’re here to explore the different types of dog food, the factors that influence dietary requirements, and why tailored nutrition is crucial for your canine friend.

Types of Dog Food

Dog food can generally be categorised into several types, each designed to meet varying nutritional needs:

1. Dry Kibble

Dry kibble is one of the most popular forms of dog food. It is convenient, cost-effective, and helps maintain dental health by reducing plaque and tartar build-up.

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

As your loyal canine companion ages, they must understand that their needs and behaviours may change. Caring for an older dog is an enriching experience. You see your four-legged friend flourish even in their later years and know it’s down to your love, care, and dedication to their well-being.

It can also have its unique challenges. This guide aims to give you insights and knowledge on ensuring your senior dog’s golden years are healthy and comfortable.

Dogs age differently depending on breed, size, and overall health. Smaller dogs often don’t show signs of ageing until 10-12, while larger dogs may enter their senior years at around 6-7.

Common signs of ageing include but are not limited to:

• Joint stiffness and mobility issues such as arthritis and other

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

In today’s fast-paced world, convenience is key, pet owners are constantly seeking ways to provide the best care for their animals without disrupting their busy lives. Whether you have a dog or cat, managing your pet’s health is a top priority. One increasingly popular solution is using online pet prescription services, which allow you to order pre-prescribed medications with ease and efficiency.

365 Vet offers a comprehensive selection of prescription products for cats and dogs, ensuring your pets receive the care they need. To purchase any prescription pet medications online, you must first obtain a veterinary prescription. This prescription, provided by your vet, includes essential details such as your information, your pet’s details, and specifics about the medication, including its strength and dosage.

The vet prescription is a crucial safeguard for your pet’s health. It confirms that a qualified

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