New Year Bucket List Adventures for Dogs in Northamptonshire
The new year is the perfect time to tick off a few adventures on your dog’s bucket list. At Daventry Vets, we’ve got some great ideas for Northamptonshire dogs in 2025!
Book an appointment with one of our friendly vets to make sure your dog’s ready for an adventurous year ahead.
1. Explore new dog-friendly parks
Start by discovering new dog-friendly parks in Northamptonshire and further afield. Whether it’s a local spot or a hidden gem, your dog will love exploring new places with you!
Tips:
- Pack Treats: Keep some tasty rewards on hand for your dog.
- Bring Water: Hydration is key for both of you!
2. Have a beach day
Daventry Vets’ nurses love taking their dogs to beaches for a fun-filled day of running, swimming, and relaxing together. If your dog hasn’t been to a beach yet, make 2025 the year for sandy exploration! If you’re a regular dog-friendly beach visitor, why not find a new coastal hot spot for you both to try out?
Tips:
- Watch The Water: Keep an eye on your dog if they’re not used to swimming.
- Protect Paws: Hot (summer) sand and stoney/rocky areas can be tough on your dog’s feet.
- Heat Safety: If you’re going on a hot day, avoid prolonged time in the sun, apply pet sunscreen, keep them hydrated, and watch for signs of overheating such as excessive panting and drooling.
3. Hit the road for a road trip
Our vets in Daventry suggest packing up the car and taking your dog on a scenic road trip. Whether it’s a day trip, a weekend getaway or a full-on adventure, your dog will love being your travel buddy. Many ferry routes (within UK) accept walk-on passengers with dogs, as do most trains; both modes of transport could add an extra element of doggy fun!
Tips:
- Car Safety: Use a dog seatbelt or crate for safe travels.
- Frequent Breaks: Stop for walks, refreshments and bathroom breaks along the way.
4. Go camping
Camping typically means all huddling together in one bed, hanging out by the campfire, and throwing a ball around – we love this for you and your dog!
Tips:
- Stay Secure: Ensure your dog can’t escape when you’re in and around the tent.
- Heat Safety: Tents can get incredibly hot inside in warm weather so never leave your dog inside unattended.
5. Try a new dog sport
Depending on your dog’s age, health, mobility and temperament, you may be able to get them active and engaged by trying a new dog sport. Whether it’s canine agility, flyball, or dock diving, your dog may love the challenge and excitement. Our team at Daventry Vets may be able to help you find the perfect activity for your dog’s energy levels – just ask our team at your dog’s next health check.
6. Take a hike
Hit the trails with your dog! Hiking is a great way to explore the great outdoors together and get some exercise along the way.
Tips:
- Bring Snacks and Water: Make sure you and your dog stay fuelled up.
- Check the trail: Ensure the hike is dog-friendly and safe.
Get ready for 2025!
Before setting off on these amazing adventures, make sure your dog’s health is up to scratch. Book an appointment at Daventry Vets for a quick check-up and get your dog ready for the year ahead.
New Year Health Planning for Your Pet with Daventry Vets
Starting the year with a focus on your pet’s health is a fantastic way to ensure they’re happy, comfortable, and active all year long. At Daventry Vets, we’re here to support pet owners in Northamptonshire with everything from check-ups to tailored nutritional advice, helping to start the year right. Below are some of the key steps for effective pet health planning.
Book your pet’s next appointment
Scheduling annual health checks
One of the best ways to ensure your pet’s ongoing health is to schedule an annual wellness exam with one of our highly experienced vets. A health check allows us to assess your pet’s overall condition, check for any underlying issues, and keep vaccinations up to date. Regular visits help identify potential health concerns early, making it easier to manage and prevent issues over time.
Make sure to book a wellness appointment at Daventry Vets to give your pet a great start to the new year.
Nutrition and weight management
Nutrition plays a big role in your pet’s health, and the new year is a great time to check their diet. Obesity in pets is common and can lead to problems such as joint issues and diabetes.
Nutritional appointments with Daventry Vets’ nursing team
At Daventry Vets, our nursing team are here to provide tailored nutritional advice suited to your pet’s age, breed, and lifestyle. During a nutrition appointment, we’ll discuss meal portions, feeding habits, and any specific dietary needs. If your pet has weight concerns, we can help create a diet plan that supports their health throughout the year. A quick nutrition review could make a big difference in their quality of life – contact us to book this.
Additional health considerations
Our vets in Daventry advise that these are a few more health checks to consider when planning for the year ahead:
- Dental Checks: Dental health is essential for your pet’s overall wellbeing. Our vets can check your pet’s dental health at their next wellness check-up. Then, regular dental checks and oral care can help prevent plaque build-up and other oral health issues.
- Parasite Prevention: Ensure your pet is up-to-date on parasite control for fleas, ticks, and worms. Book an appointment for a parasite prevention review.
- Mobility Assessments: As pets age, joint health can become a concern. Discuss any mobility issues with our team, particularly if you have an older pet.
Book an appointment to start your pet’s health plan
Getting organised with your pet’s health in January is a great way to support their wellness all year round. Our team at Daventry Vets are here to help you develop a personalised health plan that’s just right for your pet. From routine check-ups to tailored diet plans, we’ve got you covered.
Book your pet’s next appointment now
Can Cats and Dogs Eat A Vegan Diet? Vet Sarah Aldridge Has This Advice
Each January, the Veganuary campaign inspires people across the UK to embrace plant-based eating for the month, often driven by ethical beliefs or health considerations. You might be wondering if your pet can join you on this initiative. To help pet owners in Northamptonshire understand what diet is safe for their pets this January, our team have put together the following advice.
Get tailored nutritional advice for your pet by contacting us to book an appointment with our experienced registered veterinary nurses at Daventry Vets.
Book a pet nutrition nurse appointment
Choosing the right diet for your pet
Daventry Vets’ veterinary surgeons and registered veterinary nurses are highly trained when it comes to providing guidance on proper pet nutrition and care. While humans can choose dietary preferences, it’s crucial to prioritise the wellbeing and health of our pets by providing them with diets that meet their nutritional and health requirements.
The protein in your pet’s diet provides them with amino acids, and these are essentially the building blocks of your pet’s body. Our team at Daventry Vets can advise you on the protein sources and levels your pet needs, as well as all other aspects of pet nutrition. Each type of pet will need a slightly different diet based on their size, exercise levels, age and health condition. So, consulting with our team at Daventry Vets is the best way to ensure your pet is receiving the right balance of nutrition for their individual needs.
Can dogs eat a vegan diet?
Advice for dog owners in Northamptonshire is that a dog’s diet must provide the right balance of essential nutrients like proteins, vitamins, and fats. Unlike their ancestors, today’s dogs are omnivores, able to gain nutrients from both animal and plant sources. It’s important to be aware that insufficient nutrition may lead to health conditions impacting your dog’s heart, skin, coat, and immune system. While animal proteins provide high-quality ‘complete’ proteins with optimal amino acid ratios, plant proteins can be more complex. They often contain compounds like tannins, which can bind to the protein and make it harder for your dog to absorb.
That said, it’s all about getting the right balance for your dog’s individual needs. If you’re considering trying a diet that’s very different, such as a plant-based diet, your vet at Daventry Vets will work with you to ensure your dog’s new diet contains everything they need for optimum health.
Can cats eat a vegan diet?
Cats are obligate carnivores, meaning their bodies are specifically adapted to thrive on a diet rich in animal-based protein – quite the opposite of the Veganuary challenge. They require nutrients found only in animal tissue, and insufficient intake of these nutrients can lead to serious health issues.
Sarah explains that cats need 11 essential amino acids in their diet, which they cannot produce on their own. These amino acids – lysine, arginine, phenylalanine, histidine, isoleucine, leucine, methionine, taurine, valine, tryptophan, and threonine – are crucial for various aspects of health, including vision, heart function, muscle growth, and hormone balance. Without adequate amounts of these nutrients, cats are at risk of health conditions like vision impairment, heart disease, hormonal imbalances, and overall malnutrition.
Due to this, Sarah highly recommends that cats should not eat a vegan diet, to avoid putting their health at risk.
To learn more about your pet’s individual nutritional needs, contact us to book an appointment with our experienced veterinary nurses in Daventry.
Talk to our nurses about pet nutrition
Winter Dog Clothes – Yes or No?
As the temperature drops and we pull on our own jumpers and coats, many pet owners in Northamptonshire wonder whether their furry companions should do the same. But is dressing up pets in winter clothing a necessary precaution or is it more about fashion than function? As a veterinary practice, we often get asked this question, so let’s look at both the pluses and minuses.
If your pet is struggling more than usual in the cold and you are concerned, book a winter health check with our vets in Daventry.
Book a winter pet health check
Things to consider.
1. Protection Against the Cold: Some pets are more susceptible to the cold than others, particularly short-haired breeds, smaller dogs, and senior pets. These animals often struggle to maintain their body heat in colder weather, making a warm coat or jumper beneficial for comfort and health. A well-fitted coat can help keep dogs warm during winter walks in Northamptonshire.
2. Health Issues and Recovery: Dogs with certain health conditions, like arthritis, can benefit from additional warmth during winter. Our team at Daventry Vets share that a snug jumper can alleviate some discomfort by helping maintain body temperature and reducing stiffness. Similarly, dogs recovering from surgery or with a low body weight might also benefit from extra warmth provided by a coat.
3. Outdoor Activities: If your dog is active outdoors, a waterproof jacket can protect against rain and snow, preventing their fur from getting wet and making them cold. Or if your dogs are like our vet Sarah’s then they will be in water whatever the weather so there is no point in a coat on the walk and it’s better to dry them and put a coat on afterwards.
4. Not All Pets Need Them: Most dogs with thick, double-layered coats (like Huskies or German Shepherds), are naturally equipped to handle colder weather. These breeds can easily overheat if dressed in additional layers, making clothing uncomfortable and unnecessary.
5. Restricted Movement and Discomfort: If the clothing isn’t well-fitted or appropriate for your pet’s body shape, it can restrict their movement with potential for injury or skin irritation. Our vets in Daventry share that some dogs may also feel anxious or distressed when wearing clothing, leading to a negative experience, so it’s always best to start putting the coat on for short periods and using treats or play to make it a positive experience.
6. Behavioural and Safety Concerns: Dogs especially puppiess may try to chew or remove clothing, risking injury or ingestion of fabric. So they may need to be supervised.
7. Body Language and Social Signals: Clothing can obscure a pet’s body language, making it harder for other animals to interpret their signals. This could lead to misunderstandings or conflicts with other dogs.
So, what’s the verdict? As vets, we believe the decision to use winter clothes on dogs should depend on their individual needs and put their wellbeing and happiness first.
With dogs, consider their breed/coat type and if they need extra layers, their age and health, and if a coat will help them in bad weather. Daventry Vets’ team also advise observing your dog’s reaction to clothing and if they show signs of distress, it’s best to avoid it. Ensure your dog is supervised when wearing clothes to avoid injury and when choosing a dog coat or jumper, ultimately, it should prioritise function over fashion.
Have more questions? Get in touch with our vet practice in Daventry – we’re happy to help you make the best choices for your pet this winter!
If you want to share your thoughts on pets wearing clothes in winter, why not pop over and leave a comment on our Facebook page?
Book a winter pet health check
Sarah Aldridge Shares Home Hacks to Make Life Easier for Arthritic Pets
Animal Pain Awareness Month (September) is a great time to focus on the wellbeing of our beloved dogs and cats, especially those grappling with arthritis. The team at Daventry Vets have put together a guide to help you better support your arthritic dog or cat at home.
Not sure if your pet has arthritis? The main signs in dogs and cats include limping, stiffness, difficulty jumping or climbing, reduced activity, noticeable pain during movement, and a change in demeanour.
How to help your arthritic dog or cat at home
Arthritis can make everyday activities uncomfortable for our furry friends. Getting your pet diagnosed promptly by one of our vets means they can receive the multi-modal treatment they need – this might include medication and various types of physical therapy. But Daventry Vets’ support doesn’t end there. Vet Sarah Aldridge is here to tell you that with some adjustments at home, you can significantly improve your arthritic pet’s quality of life.
1. Create comfortable resting areas
Sarah recommends providing your pet with a comfortable, quiet resting place. Choose a soft, supportive bed and position it in a calm, draft-free area. Consider an orthopaedic bed for extra comfort and ensure the bed is easily accessible (avoiding high platforms, high sides, and steps) to prevent further discomfort.
The best beds are ones that your pet can lie flat and stretch out.
2. Modify your home environment
You may need to help your pet with stairs and it may be safer to use a stair gate for dogs when you can’t supervise them. You can also help them by preventing slips on floors by using non-slip rugs or rug tape, and ensuring food and water bowls are at a comfortable height to avoid bending and stretching. Cats will benefit from low-sided litter boxes in multiple locations to reduce travel as well as ramps by furniture to help them reach their favourite spots.
3. Encourage regular exercise
For dogs, maintain regular exercise to help maintain joint health and loss of muscle, how much will depend on the severity of your dogs arthritis and their mobility level. Avoid high impact activities. Engage in low-impact play with soft toys and incorporate flexibility and core strength exercises, Sarah recommends Dogs4motion’s K9 conditioning course for seniors. For cats, Sarah recommends encouraging light exercise and play with mentally stimulating, interactive toys that don’t require excessive jumping or running.
4. Maintain a healthy weight
Excess weight can exacerbate feline and canine arthritis symptoms. It does this in 2 ways
1) The extra weight on your pet’s joints.
2) Fat produces inflammatory chemicals in the body.
Ensure your pet is the correct weight. We use body condition scoring to know when a pet is at their ideal weight. Book an appointment with our vet nurses, who can tell you what your pets body condition score is and help you with addition dietary advice.
5. Consider therapeutic aids
Sarah recommends using items like heated pet mats or blankets, which can provide soothing warmth for sore joints. Why not learn how to give your dog a soothing massage with Dogs4motions course.
What about joint supplements. Inspire of the huge number of supplements on the market their is actually very little evidence that they work. There is some evidence that distilled fish oil can help in the early stages. Please be very careful with this as if you give too much it can be toxic. Always consult with a vet before giving your pet supplements for arthritis or anything else. There are several prescription drugs that provide pain relief for arthritic dogs and cats.
6. Provide extra support
Dog harnesses or support slings can help when your dog is walking or climbing stairs. For cats, a soft, supportive carrier is ideal for vet visits or moving them around. These aids can provide additional support and reduce the strain on their joints. Ensuring your pet has easy access to all their favourite spots can also help them feel more comfortable and secure.
Managing arthritis in dogs and cats requires a combination of thoughtful adjustments and compassionate care. Animal Pain Awareness Month is a reminder of how important it is to be attentive to our pets’ needs so they can have a more comfortable and enjoyable life despite the challenges of arthritis. Get your pet checked for arthritis by one of our vets in Daventry now.
Noise Phobia in Dogs and Cats: How to Identify and Treat It
Noise phobia in dogs and cats is a common but distressing condition that can significantly impact their quality of life. This anxiety disorder causes pets to become extremely fearful of loud or sudden noises, leading to intense stress and behavioural changes. Our vets in Daventry have created this guide to help you understand noise phobia and its causes, symptoms, and treatment options to better support your furry friend.
With fireworks season just around the corner, contact the team at Daventry Veterinary Clinic to discuss which calming products for dogs or cats may help your furry friend cope.
Understanding noise phobia in dogs and cats
What is noise phobia?
Noise phobia is an intense fear or anxiety triggered by specific sounds. Unlike a simple reaction to loud noises, noise phobia involves a heightened and persistent fear that can lead to severe behavioural issues. Common noises that might trigger this phobia include thunderstorms, fireworks, sirens, or even household appliances.
How does noise phobia present in pets?
Our vets in Daventry share that pets with noise phobia may exhibit a range of distressing behaviours, including:
- Pacing and Restlessness: Pets may wander aimlessly or appear agitated.
- Hiding: They might seek refuge in enclosed spaces or under furniture.
- Vocalisation: Increased barking, whining, or meowing can be a sign of distress.
- Destructive Behaviour: Some pets may chew furniture or scratch walls.
- Shaking or Trembling: Physical signs of fear are common, particularly during loud noises.
These reactions can vary in severity depending on the individual pet and the intensity of the noise.
Contact us ahead of fireworks season to discuss calming aids for your pet.
Common causes of noise phobia in pets
Noise phobia can stem from a variety of causes:
- Lack of Early Socialisation: Pets who were not exposed to a range of sounds during their critical developmental period may be more susceptible to noise phobia.
- Traumatic Experiences: Past negative experiences related to loud noises, such as a frightening event during fireworks, can contribute to the development of this phobia.
- Genetics: Some pets may have a genetic predisposition to anxiety disorders, making them more prone to developing noise phobia.
- Environmental Factors: Changes in the environment, such as moving to a new home or experiencing sudden loud noises, can trigger or exacerbate the condition.
How to treat noise phobia in pets
Our team of experienced vets at Daventry Vets have dealt with many cases of noise phobia over the years. They advise that addressing it involves a combination of strategies to help reduce anxiety and manage symptoms:
- Create a Safe Space: Designate a quiet, secure area in your home where your pet can retreat during noisy events. Provide comfortable bedding and familiar items to help them feel safe.
- Desensitisation: Gradually expose your pet to recorded sounds of the noises that trigger their phobia at a low volume, increasing the volume over time. Pair these sessions with positive reinforcement to help them associate the sounds with rewards.
- Use Calming Products: Calming aids such as anxiety wraps, pheromone diffusers, or calming treats can help alleviate anxiety. Ask our vets in Daventry to discuss the most suitable options for your pet with you – get in touch.
- Professional Help: For severe cases, book an appointment at Daventry Vets. The vet will examine your pet for any underlying health conditions that could be contributing to their anxiety, as well as provide a tailored treatment plan, and medication if necessary. They may also discuss behavioural therapy and enlisting the help of a veterinary behaviourist.
- Maintain Routine: Keeping a consistent routine can provide stability and comfort for your pet, helping to reduce overall anxiety.
In conclusion, noise phobia can significantly impact a pet’s wellbeing, but with the right approach, it is manageable. By understanding the causes, recognising the symptoms, and implementing effective treatment strategies, you can help your pet feel more secure and less fearful. If you have concerns about your pet’s behaviour, don’t hesitate to contact our team in Daventry for advice.
Bored of Your Northamptonshire Dog Walks? How to Spice Things Up
We all know the importance of daily walks for our canine companions. It keeps them physically fit, mentally stimulated, and provides a chance to explore the great outdoors. But let’s be honest, sometimes those Northamptonshire walks can fall into a bit of a rut – the same route, the same sniffs…
Here at Daventry Vets, we believe walks should be a time of joy and bonding for both you and your furry friend. So, let’s inject some fun and keep those tail wags going strong with these ideas below.
If you’re passing on your walkies, pop into our vet practice in Daventry so we can give your dog some extra cuddles and treats, which is extra mental stimulation for them too!
Embrace the Unexpected:
- Find some new walks: Explore a new park, neighbourhood, or even a hiking trail (suitable for your dog’s fitness level, of course). New sights and smells will keep your dog engaged and excited. If you can recommend any good dog walking routes in Northamptonshire or beyond, share them on our Facebook page to help other dog owners.
- Ditch you usual route: Even if you’re going to the same park vary your route in the park. Humans like to walk on paths, go round the edge, dogs are much more random. Why not zig zag, turn around and walk the other way for a bit. This is great for improving your dogs connection with you as they’ll need to check where you are.
- Scent-sational Adventures: When your dog isn’t looking, hide some treats along your route for your dog to sniff out (pop them in a small foldaway dog bowl if you prefer). This adds a playful element of surprise and mental stimulation. Don’t have a foodie, use a ball or toy instead, just drop it in some long grass and get your dog to search for it.
- The Great Fetch Up: Pack a ball, frisbee, or their favourite toy and find a safe, open space for a good game of fetch.
Bonding Through Training:
- Trick Time: Why not stop and practice some basic or fun tricks your dog has learned. Positive reinforcement with praise and treats makes training a joy for both of you.
Let us know what you think of these ideas on our Facebook page – we’d love your feedback!
Social Butterfly Walks:
- Dog-Friendly Outings: Plan your walk around a dog-friendly cafe or park. This allows your dog to socialise with other dogs while you relax with fellow pet owners. Just be sure to supervise interactions and ensure all dogs are comfortable.
- Buddy Up: See if a neighbour or friend with a dog wants to join your walks for a social outing. This provides extra playtime and interaction for both dogs, keeping them entertained.
Our dog-loving team in Daventry say it’s wise to remember to:
- Adjust the activities based on your dog’s age, breed, and fitness level.
- Always be mindful of the weather and provide fresh water on walks, especially in hot weather.
- Most importantly, have fun and enjoy the quality time spent with your furry friend!
Want to reward your pup for all their walking efforts? Pop into our practice for some delicious dog treats! While you’re here, our friendly team are also happy to answer any questions you might have about your dog’s health and wellbeing.
Sarah’s Socialisation Refresher Tips for Grown-Up Dogs
As our beloved dogs age, their behaviour and social skills can sometimes regress. Sometimes a previously well-socialised dog to develop new anxieties or react poorly in certain situations. Older dogs can often struggle in completely new enviroments. This is where refreshing your grown-up dog’s social skills can make a significant difference. In this article, Vet Sarah Aldridge explains how you can help your adult dog regain their social confidence.
Before we dive in, Sarah stresses that it’s important for Northamptonshire dog owners to know that some changes in behaviour can also be linked to pain and illness, especially in older dogs. A vet health check can help identify any underlying issues that might be causing or contributing to your dog’s behaviour changes. Book a check-up at Daventry Vets before starting a re-socialisation journey with your dog.
Why refresh your dog’s socialisation skills
Sarah shares that a well-socialised dog is generally calm, confident, and comfortable in various environments and situations. They can interact peacefully with other dogs and people, displaying natural behaviours like sniffing, playing, and friendly barking. However, if a dog’s social skills deteriorate, they might become fearful or reactive, exhibiting behaviours such as cowering and trying to get away, or loud barking, growling, and even aggression.
Why a dog’s socialisation skills deteriorate over time
- Lack of Regular Practice: Over time, without consistent reinforcement, a dog’s training can slip.
- Life Stage Changes: Older dogs may develop physical issues like stiff joints, making them less eager for play and more prone to defensive behaviours – book a check-up.
- Traumatic Experiences: Negative experiences, such as being attacked by another dog, can lead to increased anxiety and fearfulness.
Try Sarah’s refresher socialisation tips for adult dogs
Before you begin, Sarah says it’s wise to remember that refreshing your dog’s socialisation skills requires patience, a structured approach, and positive reinforcement. Use their favourite treats to reward them, do short sessions and play with them afterwards. Here are some effective strategies:
1. Refresh Basic Commands & Training: Before tackling socialisation, ensure your dog’s basic training is solid. They should respond well to commands like sit, down, stay, and walk nicely on the lead.
2. Experience Different Environments: Gradually reintroduce your dog to various environments. Start with calm, familiar places like a friend’s house or your local Northamptonshire park. Reward positive behaviour with treats and praise. Once your dog is comfortable, slowly introduce busier locations like town centres and dog-friendly shops. Garden centres can be an ideal outing for your dog to practice their socialisation skills.
3. Meet Other Dogs: If your dog used to be sociable but has started to regress, this strategy is crucial to re-master to ensure happy and safe adventures together. Introduce your dog to other dogs in a controlled setting. Begin with parallel walks, then progress to off-leash interactions and play if they want to in secure areas. Always monitor interactions closely to ensure they are positive. Sarah advises choosing a controlled environment away from home, as dogs are naturally territorial over their own space.
4. Join Dog Training Classes: Enrolling your dog in training classes can be beneficial for the both of you. These classes provide structured environments for social interaction and learning new commands, reinforcing positive behaviours. We recommend trainers who only use positive reinforcement. The institute of modern dog trainers and The association of pet dog trainers both use positive reinforcement and have find a trainer functions on their websites.
We hope you found Sarah’s adult dog socialisation refresher tips easy to follow. If you have any queries, we’re always here to help. If you have concerns about your dog’s change in behaviour, book a health check with one of our vets before working through the guide, to find out if pain or an underlying illness could be a contributing factor.
And remember, patience, structure, and positive reinforcement are key. If you encounter challenges, don’t hesitate to consult a professional trainer for guidance.
Navigate Pet Food Shopping with Daventry Vets
You’re not alone when it comes to having trouble choosing the best pet food for your dog or cat. With 10.5 million tonnes of pet food products sold annually across Europe and a 5.1% annual growth rate for this industry*, it’s no wonder you can feel flummoxed!
Our veterinary team at Daventry Vets have crafted a simple guide to help pet owners in Northamptonshire navigate the process of pet food shopping.
As vets, we’re often asked about the vast array of pet food choices on the market. From kitten kibble, home cooked, raw, fresh cooked commercial, senior support, the options can be overwhelming. Yet, there’s a straightforward explanation for this diversity: a pet’s nutritional requirements evolve throughout their lifespan. Let’s delve into why life stage matters in pet food, decipher what “complete pet food” means, and underscore the importance of consulting with a veterinary professional for maintaining your pet’s health.
Life stages of your pet
- Growth: Picture a lively puppy or kitten with endless energy and a hearty appetite, fuelling their adventures and growth. Puppy and kitten food is rich in protein, calcium, and essential nutrients to support their rapid development. There are scientifically calculated nutrient requirements for this lifestage.
- Adult: Once your pet reaches adulthood (around 1 year for cats and varying for dogs depending on breed), their growth rate slows down. Adult pet food provides the balanced nutrition they need to maintain a healthy weight, support their immune system, and keep them active.
- Golden Years: As pets age, their bodies change. Senior pet food often has lower calorie content to help prevent weight gain. Not all senior pets will need senior food especially if they are very active. Vet Sarah feeds her senior dog adult food as he is very active, fit and ideal body condition.
Our experienced team at Daventry Vets can advise you on all of this – book a tailored nutrition appointment now.
What does “complete pet food” mean?
You might see the term “complete pet food” on packaging. Our vets in Daventry advise that it signifies the food meets all your pet’s nutritional requirements for their life stage, as set by organisations like the European Pet Food Industry Federation (FEDIAF). This means you don’t need to add any supplements unless specifically recommended by your vet.
We recommend choosing a brand that meets the FEDIAF requirements whatever type of food you choose to feed.
Why choose high quality pet food?
Think of pet food as the foundation of your pet’s health. High-quality complete pet food, formulated for their life stage, provides the essential building blocks for a long and healthy life. It can also support digestion, skin and coat health, and even cognitive function.
Want to feed a home prepared diet?
Some pet owners want to feed a home prepared diet. Studies have shown that without proper formulation these are usually deficient in various nutrients. If you want to feed a home prepared diet we recommend using a veterinary nutritionalist to formulate this for you.
Why consult your vet?
While complete pet food offers a balanced base, every pet is an individual. Book a tailored nutrition appointment with one of our vets, who will consider your pet’s age, breed, activity level, and any specific health concerns to recommend the best pet food for their unique needs. They can also help with tricky transitions between life stages and advise on portion control to maintain a healthy weight.
Cats especially need a well-thought-out transition between different foods, as some changes in diet can negatively affect their health.
Our veterinary team at Daventry Vets want pet owners in Northamptonshire to remember: When it comes to pet food, a one-size-fits-all approach doesn’t exist. By understanding the importance of life stage nutrition, choosing good quality complete pet food, or properly formulated home prepared diets and consulting your vet, you’re giving your pet the nutritional foundation they need to thrive at every stage of their life. We don’t sell life stage diets so have no allegiance to any particular brand. We like you just want the best for your pet.
*Stats from www.europeanpetfood.org
Top Tips from Sarah on Summer BBQ Pet Safety
Ah, the sizzle of sausages, the aroma of burgers on the grill… there’s nothing quite like a summer barbecue with friends and family. But while we humans may be drooling over the delicious delights cooking up, let’s not forget about our furry friends who are eager to join in on the fun. To ensure a paw-some barbecue experience for everyone, here are some top tips from our Vet, Sarah Aldridge at Daventry Vets, to keep your pets safe and happy around the grill.
And just in case you need it, here is the emergency number for our vets in Daventry – 01327 877767.
See our contact and emergency information
How to Grill & Chill this Summer
If you know your pets will be into everything, it may be wise to keep them indoors, but if your pets can handle your ‘BBQ rules’, here’s Sarah’s tips for how to Grill & Chill:
- Create a ‘Safe Zone’: First things first, Sarah recommends establishing a designated ‘pet zone’ away from the grill and cooking area. Set up a shady spot with water bowls and comfy bedding where pets can stay cool while you flip the burgers. Portable pet pens are handy for this.
- Keep an Eye on Pets: Naturally, the sight & smell of food cooking on the grill will tempt pets to investigate. To prevent them from getting too close to the grill or attempting to steal barbecue food, keep a close eye on them or put someone on ‘grill guard duty’ to steer roaming pets away to safety.
- Beware of Hot Surfaces: Grills can reach scorching temperatures that pose a burn risk to curious noses and paws, long after cooking has finished. Sarah suggests using a grill cover or barrier to prevent pets from accessing the grill area altogether to avoid accidental burns, and have a plan for hot ash afterwards – see our emergency information.
- Pet-safe Barbecue Foods: While it’s tempting to share your barbecue feast with your furry pals, not all barbecue foods are safe for pets. Avoid giving them toxic or harmful foods like onions, garlic, grapes, chocolate, chicken bones, corn on the cob, and foods high in salt, spices, fatty juices, or sugar. Stick to pet-safe treats like plain grilled chicken or lean meat without seasoning. Consider grilling apple, mango, or cucumber for a tasty BBQ treat, if your pet can eat them or why not give them some of their favourite dog or cat treats.
- Watch Out for Falling Food: Accidents happen, and tasty treats may accidentally fall onto the ground. Picking up dropped food instantly will prevent pets from eating it; some items may pose a choking hazard or cause gastrointestinal upset.
- Keep Your Pets Hydrated: Provide plenty of water during the barbecue festivities for pets to drink. If they seem unwell, call our vets in Daventry on 01327 877767.
- Have a Plan for Leftovers: Clearing up thoroughly straight after a BBQ is vital when you have pets. Disposing of barbecue leftovers and scraps promptly and securely will prevent dogs and cats from scavenging through the rubbish. Leftover bones, skewers, and other barbecue remnants can pose choking or get stuck in their intestines, a top culprit for getting stuck is corn on the cob.
With these grill-tastic tips in mind, you and your furry friends can enjoy a safe and enjoyable barbecue season together in Northamptonshire. Plus, you’ll be helping to keep wildlife safe too! So, fire up the grill, gather your friends and family, and let the summer celebrations begin!
And remember, call 01327 877767 in an emergency.
