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Author njpadmin Posted on 1 Comment on Tick Advice and Information

Tick Advice and Information

Ticks are blood feeding external parasites that can carry diseases that can harm you and your pet. Diseases such as Lyme Disease are transmitted when the tick injects saliva into their host whilst feeding.  To find out more about Lyme Disease, the symptoms and treatment, check out the Lyme Disease Action website.

They have a life cycle that has 4 different stages. Starting with the egg, 6 legged larva, 8 legged nymph and the adult tick. This blog post aims to offer some advice as well as some useful products to help you and your pet stay healthy and safe from ticks.

Ticks are arachnids, more closely related to spiders than to insects. A fully fed tick can be 3-10 times the size of an unfed tick.

Although pet owners have to consider ticks all year round it is in the summer that they are most active. They thrive in long vegetation waiting for passing animals, including humans, to attach themselves to. Ticks will then feed on the animal’s blood before dropping off. Contained within their saliva is an anaesthetic so the host animal will not feel the bite!

The Dartmoor National Park Authority has some very good preventative measures that can be adopted by dog walkers and visitors. They suggest:

  • Wearing covered shoes and long trousers tucked into your socks
  • Wearing light coloured clothing so a tick can be more easily seen.
  • Avoid a ticks favourite place by walking in the centre of paths and check yourself after sitting or leaning on trees.
  • Use a light coloured picnic blanket and check the underneath afterwards
  • Check your pets after they come home.

If a tick is found early removal is critical in reducing the risk of infection. Removal should be done carefully to prevent leaving parts of the tick behind. Here at Not Just Pets we have a range of products that will give you confidence in removing and preventing ticks.

 

The Ancol Tick Tool is a helpful tick remover that can be kept in your bag or backpack and is available for cats and dogs (in pink and blue) This tool fits over the tick and you can pull it out safely. Available in store and online priced at £2.30

 

 

 

 

Another great tick remover is the O’Tom Tick Twister which is shaped like a hook. It is supplied in two sizes to ensure you can remove ticks easily. Place the hook around the tick and twist slowly until the tick is released and safely remove from your pet. This design ensures that the tick is not squashed when removed which can lead to harmful saliva passing into the host animal. Available in store and online priced at £4.32

 

To help avoid picking up ticks when out and about Biospotix is an all natural, non-chemical based product that comes in a spot-on treatment for both cats and dogs. You place the treatment on the back of your pets neck. This repellent works by breaking the tick’s respiratory system. 100% safe for humans and pets. Can be used on animals older that 3 months and can last up to 4 weeks. Available online and in store each pack contains 5 pipettes and is priced at £10.00

The Tickless Ultrasonic Tick and Flea Repeller is a small electronic device. Shaped in the form of a pendant that can be placed on your pet’s collar. This device emits ultrasonic impulses to rid pets of fleas and ticks. A non toxic, chemical free way to protect yourself and your pet from ticks. Available in store and online priced at £22.99

 

 

 

 

Finding and removing any ticks safely will reduce the chance of illness occurring. Here at Not Just Pets we hope to help any pet owner with any concerns. Your vet will also be able to give you any advice you need to help you.

If you have any great tips or advice about ticks please contact us and let us know! We look forward to connecting with you.

We look forward to welcoming you in store soon; remember we are open in our Bath store 7 days a week!

Any ideas and suggestions you have will be welcomed. You can follow us in many ways:

Facebook                Twitter             Pinterest

 We are now on Instagram! – notjustpets Follow us and see some fantastic photos!

We run regular photo competitions, quizzes, offers and promotions on our Facebook and Twitter pages, so why not “like” or “follow” us today! 

Get in touch via any of the above, or via our website or email at bathpets@aol.com or telephone us on 01225 461461. Or simply pop in, you’ll be welcome!

Author njpadmin Posted on

The Dangerous Dogs Act New Amendment- How It Affects You and Your Dog

The Dangerous Dogs Act (section 3) is a law that protects the public from dogs that can cause harm. That does not only apply to banned breeds but any dog that is considered a dangerous threat. In May of this year the law was amended to apply to private property as well as in public spaces. This will impact on all dog owners as they will need to protect any visitor to their home as well as delivery drivers and post men and women. If they do not manage their dog’s behaviour when there is a visitor, delivery driver or post person at their door they risk committing a criminal offence.

At Not Just Pets we care about animals and their owners and we would like to share this vital information so you are aware of how to protect yourself and your pets. The National Animal Welfare Trust (NAWT) have some great information about how the Dangerous Dogs Act affects all dog owners no matter what size, age or breed.

The NAWT have a website and blog with a summary of what you can do to protect you and your dog in regards to the law. Below is a list of the steps they have suggested:

Ensure your garden is safe – this will not only make sure that your dog can’t escape out of the garden and be injured, or possibly be considered a threat but also protects unexpected visitors who will not be able to enter your property without your knowledge.

Manage your dog’s behaviour at your front door – Plan ahead and have a routine when there is a visitor at your door. You need to be able to have visitors at your door without them encountering your dog. Put your dog in another room or out in the back garden if that is secure.

Manage your dog’s behaviour when there is a knock on the door – You may need to help your dog manage its behaviour and seek professional training to help your dog and you. Your dog doesn’t need to bite someone for them to be considered a threat.

Manage the way your dog greets people – You need to make sure they behave in a way that is acceptable to all visitors. You might not mind them jumping up but others may consider that aggressive behaviour.

On the 16th July 7-8pm the NAWT is offering a free Webinar to help people become aware of the act and the amendment. Register for your place and you will be able to learn more about the act.

Owning a dog is a great responsibility and as the owner you are required to train your dog and keep them safe.

We look forward to welcoming you in store soon; remember we are open in our Bath store 7 days a week!

Any ideas and suggestions you have will be welcomed. You can follow us in many ways:

Facebook                Twitter             Pinterest

 We are now on Instagram! – notjustpets Follow us and see some fantastic photos!

We run regular photo competitions, quizzes, offers and promotions on our Facebook and Twitter pages, so why not “like” or “follow” us today! 

Get in touch via any of the above, or via our website or email at bathpets@aol.com or telephone us on 01225 461461. Or simply pop in, you’ll be welcome!

Author njpadmin Posted on

Ashley Wins Two Awards at the Bira Highstreet Conference and Gala!

 Ashley Gale, Manager of our Not Just Pets branch in Larkhall has won two awards at the British Independent Retailer Association (bira) conference and gala held on Thursday 15th May 2014 at the Cotswold Water Park. The awards were presented by Chris Barrie of Red Dwarf and Brittas Empire fame.

Ashley’s first award was for the Young Retailer of the Year in his division of Pet Product Retailer Association (PPRA).

After winning his division, Ashley was then up against four strong candidates, who had won their divisions, for the overall award. The other divisions included hardware, cookware, agriculture, gardening, pet and fashion, across the UK. The judges were unanimous in their vote and chose Ashley as winner of the British Independent Retailer Association (bira) UK Young Retailer of the Year.

Ashley was nominated for this award after all his hard work and dedication to the company. At the age of 16 in 2005 Ashley joined Not Just Pets as a Saturday worker. Enjoying his work and engaging with the business and customers, Ashley progressed and last year was offered the manager position at the Larkhall Store.

Ashley’s prizes include Champagne, certificates and two plaques as well as a place at the prestigious Oxford Summer School for Retail at Oxford University. The School offers the best training and development for retail managers.


Not Just Pets owner Janine Tozer said “We are absolutely delighted and thrilled for Ashley to win this award and we are very proud of him. The prize of a place at the Oxford Summer School for Retail is fantastic and, from an ex-graduate of that school I can confidently say he will thoroughly enjoy it and will learn so much. Ashley deserves this award for his hard work and commitment to our Company. He is always organized, dedicated and ready for a challenge and he shows such an interest in our customers, always putting the customer first.”

This year the awards were sponsored by Towergate Insurance. These awards are held by bira to recognise young independent retailers and reward them in their efforts.

We look forward to welcoming you in store soon; remember we are open in our Bath store 7 days a week!

Any ideas and suggestions you have will be welcomed. You can follow us in many ways:

On Facebook:(https://www.facebook.com/NotJustPets) and Twitter: (https://twitter.com/NotJustPets) and Pinterest: (https://www.pinterest.com/notjustpets/)

We are now on Instagram! – notjustpets Follow us and see some fantastic photos!

We run regular photo competitions, quizzes, offers and promotions on our Facebook and Twitter pages, so why not “like” or “follow” us today!

Get in touch via any of the above, or via our website or email at bathpets@aol.com or telephone us on 01225 461461. Or simply pop in, you’ll be welcome!

 

Author njpadmin Posted on

Rabbit Awareness Week 2014

 

Rabbit Awareness Week (10th – 18th May) is a nationwide event that aims to make the public aware of the welfare needs of rabbits.

Rabbits make very rewarding pets as they are intelligent, fun and inquisitive. However, they do live up to 10 years plus and are a long term commitment. We want to make sure that your decision to choose a rabbit as your pet is the right one.

Rabbit awareness week is an annual campaign that Not Just Pets supports. We take it as an opportunity to educate local owners and potential owners on how to take care of their pets properly.  We aim to raise awareness of caring for rabbits as well as raising funds and promote local charities.

In order for an animal to thrive and be happy there are five main areas that need to be met. These areas are Diet, Environment, Behaviour, Company and Health.

Whether you are an existing owner or plan to be one there is a wealth of knowledge to be found during Rabbit Awareness Week.

In store we are holding an open day in conjunction with Bath Bunny rescue. There will be a fabulous raffle and cake sale to raise essential funds for the charity. Here is the star cake from the last cake sale!

The date for your diary is Saturday 10th May. We will be holding the Open day at our Bath store 8-9 St James Parade.

Our staff will be on hand to guide you through any rabbit purchases you may need help with and Michelle from Bath Bunny Rescue will be in store to answer your questions and to chat about all things rabbit.

Michelle will also be bringing in some rabbits with her so please come and visit them for a cuddle!

Rabbit themed incentives and promotions will be available so come and get a treat or learn something new during Rabbit Awareness Week!

 

 

We look forward to welcoming you in store soon; remember we are open in our Bath store 7 days a week!

Any ideas and suggestions you have will be welcomed. You can follow us in many ways:

On Facebook:(https://www.facebook.com/NotJustPets) and Twitter: (https://twitter.com/NotJustPets) and  Pinterest: (https://www.pinterest.com/notjustpets/)

We are now on Instagram! – notjustpets Follow us and see some fantastic photos!

We run regular photo competitions, quizzes, offers and promotions on our Facebook and Twitter pages, so why not “like” or “follow” us today! 

Get in touch via any of the above, or via our website or email at bathpets@aol.com or telephone us on 01225 461461. Or simply pop in, you’ll be welcome!

Author njpadmin Posted on

Pet emergency – Part 1 – Dogs and chocolate what is safe?

This weeks blog is part of our Pet Emergency series that will offer advice and information around what life is like living with animals and what to do when there is an emergency.

This is Part 1 which will explain why dogs can not eat chocolate and what to do if your dog eats some by accident.

The Not Just Pets Blog post is for information only. It should not replace veterinary advice. If it is an emergency and your pet is ill please ring a vet immediately. 

What is in chocolate that is so bad for dogs?

Chocolate contains a stimulant called theobromine which is similar to caffeine. This is what is poisonous to dogs. Different types of chocolate contain different amounts of theobromine, white chocolate the least and dark chocolate the most.

In 25 grams of white chocolate there is minimal amount, in milk chocolate 44-64mg, in dark chocolate 390-450mg and in dry cocoa powder 800mg.

100-150mg of theobromine per Kg of bodyweight is toxic to dogs. So if a regular sized dog weighing 30kg eats 1kg of milk chocolate it is enough for a fatal toxic reaction.

How does it harm your dog?

Theobromine will affect your dog’s heart, central nervous system and its kidneys, depending on how much the dog has eaten compared to its body weight.

What are the symptoms of chocolate poisoning?

When a dog has eaten some chocolate depending on how much they have eaten and their body weight you can expect these symptoms.

  • vomiting
  • diarrhoea
  • restlessness
  • breathing difficulties
  • muscle tension
  • increased heart rate
  • seizure

These can start from 4 hours up to 24 hours after consumption. The sooner you get to see a vet the better the outcome for your dog

What should you do if your dog eats chocolate by mistake?

Contact your vet straight away and they will be available to advise you of what to do. They will offer treatment which will be induced vomiting to avoid the chocolate being ingested. If it is too late for that then the vet may offer medication to control the dog’s heart rate and blood pressure.

Case study Lola the staffie 

Lola is a one year old staffie, her owner Siobhan adopted her from the local shelter. The family knows that Lola likes to scavenge for food and so no tasty tidbits are ever left out and about for Lola to help herself to. Siobhan has two children who have been taught not to give Lola anything extra to eat.

Last Sunday was Easter Sunday and the children had their Easter egg. Siobhan’s oldest child put her egg down on the table for a second and Lola had scoffed it! This could have happened to anyone that owns a dog; with all the extra treats and excitement going on during a family event sometimes thing can go wrong. Dogs seem to know how tasty chocolate is and will take any open opportunity to get it!

Knowing chocolate is not good for dogs Siobhan rang the vets and was able to take Lola in to be seen. They made her vomit so she didn’t ingest the chocolate as the amount she had eaten would have done some serious damage if not killed Lola. Lola was back home that evening with her family safe and sound.

If Siobhan didn’t know the dangers of chocolate she may not have called the vet straight away. Most pet owners do not call the vet until their pet is showing signs that they are ill. The symptoms of chocolate poisoning may not show up until 4-24 hours later when it may be too late for your vet to take action.

What if I like to give my dog a treat?

The information here is to let you the pet owner be aware of why certain things are not recommended for pets. If you enjoy giving your pet a tasty treat or you get those puppy dog eyes looking at you when you are eating your favourite snack, don’t be tempted to give a little taste as there are some alternatives! At Not Just Pets we stock a variety of treats that are suitable for dogs including doggie chocolate bars!

Our staff are on hand to guide you through all the different treats available. From biscuits and chocolate drops to pigs’ ears! There is something for every dog and pocket.

We look forward to welcoming you in store soon: remember we are open in our Bath store 7 days a week!

Any ideas and suggestions you have will be welcomed. You can follow us in many ways:

On Facebook:(https://www.facebook.com/NotJustPets) and Twitter: (https://twitter.com/NotJustPets) and  Pinterest: (https://www.pinterest.com/notjustpets/)

We are now on Instagram! – notjustpets Follow us and see some fantastic photos!

We run regular photo competitions, quizzes, offers and promotions on our Facebook and Twitter pages, so why not “like” or “follow” us today! 

Get in touch via any of the above, or via our website or email at bathpets@aol.com or telephone us on 01225 461461. Or simply pop in, you’ll be welcome!

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