PREVENT YOUR FURRY FRIEND FROM OVERHEATING If the predictions are correct, we're in for a long, hot summer here in NZ. It's about time, you might say! However, while hot summer days are a pleasure for many of us, they can be long, enduring, and sometimes dangerous for our canine companions. As we look forward to the sunny season, we must remember that our furry friends have different needs when dealing with the heat. Here, we'll provide you with a comprehensive guide to ensuring your dog's summer is not only fun but also safe. Whew, it’s getting hot. But we humans are not the only ones that feel the effects of summer’s heat. Our furry friends feel it too. We...
Seasonal conjunctivitis, commonly known as hay fever or pink eye in horses, is an inflammatory eye condition that significantly impacts equine health. This condition typically arises during specific times of the year, causing discomfort and potential vision impairment in affected horses. What is Seasonal Conjunctivitis? Seasonal conjunctivitis is a condition that afflicts horses by provoking inflammation in the conjunctival membrane of their eyes. The conjunctiva is a delicate, transparent tissue that lines the eyelid's inner surface and covers the white part of the eye. This inflammation can result in various symptoms, such as eye redness, tearing, and discomfort, ultimately affecting the horse's ocular well-being. Causes Allergens: The primary instigator of seasonal conjunctivitis in horses is environmental allergens. These allergens include...
Spring in New Zealand brings about a vibrant burst of life as flowers bloom, trees flourish, and the landscape transforms into a colourful spectacle. However, with this rejuvenation comes a rise in allergenic triggers that can affect our beloved animal companions. One of the most common spring allergens in New Zealand is pollen. Pollen grains are released by various plants, including grasses, trees, and weeds, as part of their reproductive process. These tiny particles are carried by the wind and can trigger allergic reactions. Horses and dogs may inhale pollen, leading to respiratory distress and irritation. Symptoms may include sneezing, coughing, wheezing and nasal discharge. In severe cases, pollen allergies can exacerbate conditions like asthma and bronchitis in these animals....
Spring in New Zealand is widely known for its gusty and blustery winds. While these winds may be a mere inconvenience for humans, their impact on our four-legged companions, particularly dogs and horses, cannot be underestimated. The robust and relentless spring winds can exert various effects on animals. Firstly, the noise and unpredictability of these gusts can render dogs and horses anxious and nervous, leading to heightened stress levels and an overall decline in their well-being. Furthermore, the winds carry allergens such as pollen and dust, exacerbating allergies and causing discomfort and respiratory distress. For horses, the tumultuous winds can be unsettling, potentially leading to accidents if they become spooked and engage in sudden erratic behaviour. Horse owners should make...
Herbal remedies have been used for centuries to address various health issues in humans and animals. When treating inflammation and arthritis in dogs, herbal remedies offer a natural and potentially effective alternative to conventional medications. The benefits of using herbal remedies for inflammation and arthritis in dogs include: Natural Anti-Inflammatory Properties Many herbal remedies possess potent anti-inflammatory properties. These natural compounds can help reduce joint inflammation and relieve suffering from arthritis or other inflammatory conditions. Common herbs with anti-inflammatory effects include devil’s claw, white willow, nettle, meadowsweet, hawthorn, rosehips and kelp. These herbs are all suitable for dogs. Gentle on the Body Unlike some pharmaceutical drugs, herbal remedies for inflammation and arthritis tend to be gentler on a dog's body,...
