Pet Care

Health

When you first take ownership of a new dog or cat, the first thing you should do is register him/her with a Veterinary Surgeon who will give him/her an initial health check.

Your Veterinary Surgeon will be able to advise you about the vaccinations your pet needs to keep him/her safe and healthy and about a programme of parasite control. There are very effective and easy to administer treatments for fleas and worms but it is advisable to seek advice from your Veterinary Surgeon as to the best for your pet.

If you are thinking about taking your pet abroad ask your Veterinary Surgeon about the current regulations regarding the blood tests and vaccinations necessary to obtain your pet's passport.

Your Veterinary Surgeon will also advise on the benefits of neutering.   

How To Keep Your Pet Safe

When taking on a pet or moving house with an existing pet, ensure the area where the pet is to be kept is safe and secure. Are the fences in a good state of repair? - ensure the posts are well sunk into the ground and that they are of sufficient height or depth, in the case of some pets like rabbits.

Remember to check gates - Are they high enough? Is the catch strong enough? To prevent the gate being left open it is adviseable to have it locked from the inside.

Do not leave pets in the front garden or near to low fences, keep them out of sight and contained at the rear of the property - pet stealing is much more common then is generally realised.

Dogs should always wear a collar with a disc giving your address or telephone number - failure to comply will lead to a hefty fine if the dog is picked up as a stray. Microchipping is a simple and cost effective way to ensure your pet has a permanent record of you as their owner.  Local authority dog wardens, rescue centres, veterinary practices and most police stations have access to a scanner to be able to read the chip, thus sourcing your contact details.  We are able to microchip your pet for you at a cost of just £10.00.  Alternatively, contact your nearest veterinary practice.

Remember to keep a new cat or an existing cat in a new house inside for at least 6 weeks - this might seem a long time but it enables the cat to get use to the new surroundings and feel safe and secure there.

Finally, have a good up to date photograph of your pet to use on a poster if lost, or as proof of ownership if found.

How To Find Your Pet

Dogs Only

Notify the local authority dog warden in the area the dog went missing and any bordering local authority districts.  Whilst you are speaking to the Councils also ask to speak to the Environmental Health Department, who can advise whether any dead animal has been collected. IT REALLY IS BETTER TO KNOW.  Also contact the police in case someone has reported a dog found and your local rescue centres.

All pets

1. Produce leaflets with a photograph describing the pet, when and where lost remembering to include a contact telephone number. Distribute these everywhere locally, vets, clubs, shops etc.

2. If you have lost your pet in the Leicestershire area contact our Petfinder service on 01455 888257.

3. There are national lost and found pet services available over the internet such as the National Pet Register.

4. If your pet is microchipped inform the registration organisation.

5. Ask neighbours to check in sheds and garages in case the pet has been shut in.

6. Advertise in local newspapers and those that have circulation in the area where the pet was lost.

7. Put out food and water in your garden for your pet.