Pet Corner

Every practising veterinarian would have been confronted by clients who shiver in fear as they present their pets who they believe are suffering from cancer.

– the final ‘wrap–up’ column After more than 45 years of veterinary practice and participating in dozens of ‘refresher’ courses which share the latest knowledge in animal health matters, it has become clear to me that pet owners, over the years, still ask the same questions relative to the best nutritional regime for an elderly pet.

We have been spending what seems to be an inordinate amount of time on this subject. 

Continued from last week I had promised last week to continue the discussion on the different types of commercial dog food on the market.

(Continued from last week) Actually, the scientific literature on the nutritional requirements of the elderly dog seems not to be copious. 

Over the last few weeks we have been writing about the preferred feeding regimes of puppies, young adults, pregnant and lactating bitches, etc. 

(Continued from last week) Before we launch into today’s theme, allow me to mention that someone – after reading last week’s column – asked me how one could distinguish between a young puppy and an older puppy. 

The nutrition of companion animals (pets) has received considerable interest during the recent decades, and certain large manufacturers of dog and cat foods have conducted extensive research and feeding trials, in order to establish nutritious diets that need no supplementation. 

For one thing, I have observed that, over the past few decades, more and more publications, articles, surveys, research projects and studies are being documented. 

Dogs training humans? We have just completed weeks of discussing canine paediatrics and how to choose the right pup to live in your home, as an integral part of your family for the next decade or more.

(Continued from last week)   Last week, we discussed the physical examination of young pups, especially their reproductive organs. 

(Continued from last week) You may recall that we were discussing the features to which special attention must be paid when we are purchasing or adopting a young puppy. 

(Continued from last week)  The physical examination Look at and in the pup’s mouth. 

(Continued from last week)   Weaning The time to wean the pups away from the mother depends upon several factors which include the size of the litter.

Continued from last week  Hernias Colloquially, all over the English speaking world, people describe hernias as ‘ruptures’. 

This is a central nervous system disorder caused by a low level sugar in the blood (hypoglycaemia). 

Continued from last week Well, let’s return to the more mundane matters pertaining to pet care. 

Continued The week before last we spoke of skin infections of the young pup. 

Today, on the threshold of the festive season, we’ll deal with food intake, or rather, what not to feed your pet(s) at Christmas. 

Continued from last week   So far, we have discussed some of the common problems that incapacitate puppies within the first few weeks of their lives.