If your dog is overweight, she is at increased risk for developing a number of health conditions, including diseases of the urinary tract such as bladder stones and infections. That’s why it’s so important to take your dog to the vet regularly for weigh-ins and advice on how to manage problems related to excess weight.

With everyone under the one roof all day, there is a risk our cats usual slim, svelte frames may become challenged – not to mention our own!

As pets are living longer and longer, they become vulnerable to some of the same health issues as we see in elderly people, such as diabetes, kidney disease, urinary tract infections, heart disease and cancer. Unfortunately, our pets cannot tell us how they are feeling and the early signs of some of these illnesses can be very subtle.

Do you know the signs of arthritis in cats? Cats are very skilled at hiding the early signs of illness or pain. While dogs with arthritis may show signs of limping or slowing down on walks, cats may have much more subtle signs of arthritis, such as sleeping more, not grooming as much (particularly around the hind quarters) or not jumping as high.

Everyone loves the beautiful array of flowers we have here in the Hills, but did you know some plants are poisonous to pets? Lilies, rhododendrons, azaleas, daffodils, tulips, camellias, hydrangeas, carnations and chrysanthemums are just some of the many plants which can be dangerous to pets. Ornamental flowers in flower arrangements can also pose a risk to indoor pets. In some cases, such as lilies, even a cat just licking the pollen off their fur can cause potentially deadly illness. Be aware of the risks with any flowers or plants in your home and garden, and where possible prevent your pets from accessing them.