Introducing Doctor Sarah Elizabeth Stead - Owner and Top Dog (every pun intended) at Sore Paws Veterinary Clinics in Winlaton and Newton Aycliffe.
Every month, Doctor Steas will be on hand to answer your questions that come with ownership of our furry, and in some cases, not so furry friends. This month is just an introduction, however we welcome your questions, so that we can answer them, in print, and put your pet worries to bed. For email enquiries – sorepawsvets.winlaton@ outlook.com
“If you, like many pet owners, begin to dread this time of year with the approach of Bonfire Night, you’re not alone. Many pets suffer with noise phobias, particularly towards fireworks. We often have a number of enquiries about what pet owners can do to help their fearful dogs during this time. Fireworks are terrifying for our pets and many suffer terribly during these months.
“One of the products we use to counteract the anxiety that this time of year can bring is Nutracalm products. It is a supplement specially formulated by vets using a unique combination of all-natural ingredients developed to help fretful pets. It works fast, without any sedative effects and is suitable for cats, dogs and horses and can be given alongside other medications.
“Many pets get stressed and anxious with the loud bangs that fireworks make, but these products can also help with such problems as separation anxiety, travelling, visits to the vets or when pets have to stay away from their owners and homeenvironments. Separation anxiety, especially following this pandemic, is something that we, at Sore Paws have seen an increasing number of cases of, so I am sure that the calming products from Nutravet can help with some of those issues. Another bonus is that this product does not require a prescription and can be bought over the counter.
“Other things you can do to help your companion on Bonfire night includes exercising them before dark to tire them out, keeping them inside overnight and keeping curtains and all windows and doors closed. Leaving a radio on or the TV on quietly to help drown out the noise from outside, and providing a “den” for them to hide within and feel safe. There are also more aggressive therapies which can be implemented such as mild sedatives, however these need to be prescribed by your vet and we recommend you speak with a veterinary professional first before considering these. We don’t want to be killjoys, but some celebrations simply aren’t good for our pets, so at least we can rest easier knowing that there are things we can do to help them.” See you next month, Sarah.
For information on Sore Paws Veterinary Clinics and Nutracalm products, email: Sorepawsvets.winlaton@outlook.com - 0191 414 4233 (Winlaton branch) or 01325 308 000 (Newton Aycliffe branch).
