Greencross Vets As our levels of outdoor socialising decrease and indoor levels increase, the change of routine can take a toll on both human and pets physical and mental health. Greencross Vets encourage you to keep an eye on your pet and if you think something isn’t quite right, please give us a call.
In response to the social distancing regulations and to ensure your health and safety and that of our team, we’ve implemented minimal contact pet care in response to COVID-19. Greencross Vets have prepared some key tips to help your dog thrive.
MEDICATION
Make sure that you have adequate supplies of prescription and non-prescription medications for your pet. Our veterinary clinics and hospitals can organise this for you. If you advise our team in advance, we can complete r and have it ready for you to pick up.
Flea Free
Keeping your dog flea-free is also a priority while in isolation. It is not common to see fleas in winter as they like to hide in carpet, rugs and beds. There are several products available to provide relief. Some products work on more than one type of parasite e.g. fleas, ticks, intestinal worms and heartworm. Be careful when selecting preventatives for dogs as, if given to cats, could be poisonous or even fatal. If you are uncertain speak to your Greencross Vet and they can help you select the right product for your pet and household.
ENTERTAINMENT
Toys
Keep dogs entertained with some hardy, fun and interactive toys – these may reduce boredom. A helpful pointer to keep your dog entertained is to regularly rotate through their toys. They will get excited to play with a toy they have not seen in a while. Don’t forget to play with your canine companion and engage with stimulating games around the house. Lead walks are great but ensure to observe social distancing and other government regulations.
Games
Isolation does not mean less stimulation, it’s a great time to get creative with your pampered pooch and create indoor or backyard games for you both to engage in. You can easily transform your living room into a mentally and physically appealing obstacle course by simply repurposing the furniture and other items in your house. For example, use a treat to lure your dog under tables and over chairs, zig zagging around cushions and more, for a fun indoor activity that can keep you and your family occupied for hours. Be careful not to offer too many treats during isolation. Treats are just that – they are treats and not a meal.
MEALTIME
Whilst it may be a natural motion for humans to reach for the pantry now that we are in isolation, it is important to have discipline when it comes to our pets and maintain regular balanced meal times. Take care not to indulge your pet as this can contribute to health problems in the long run including diabetes, weight gain and arthritis. Talk to your local Greencross Vets to plan your dog’s nutrition intake.
UNUSUAL BEHAVIOUR
You know your pet better than anyone else, if you are noticing some inconsistencies in their behaviour or movement, reach out to your nearest Greencross Vets clinic. We understand these are difficult times so, if you are self-isolating due to positive COVID-19 or have come in contact with someone that has and your pet needs to be seen by a vet, please ring the clinic ahead of your appointment. We advise that you ask someone else to accompany your pet to our clinics, however, ensure you can be contacted by phone so that our vets can keep you informed during the consult.
