Continue reading “Skin Allergy Story” →

Vet’s Corner – Beware the deadly raisin!

Information has come to light recently regarding the toxic effects of raisins, sultanas and grapes on dogs.  The Veterinary Poisons Information Service (VPIS), the agency who provides information and advice to Veterinary Surgeons in cases of toxicity, has provided the following information.  The agency first became aware of this problem a few years ago after a spate of cases in close succession.  A check through their database revealed many serious cases in the past.

Continue reading “Deadly Raisins” →

I feel I must write to warn people, it can happen to you or should I say your dogs. I was walking as I do most days in our local forestry (not worked) near the Denbeigh moors, with my dogs – 4 hounds, 1 Bouvier, 1 Spinone, my friend and her Airedale,when I noticed the Spinone looked a bit odd!  It was a very warm day and fortunately we were nearing the end of our walk. 

I stopped to examine Mia and realised there was something wrong.  Her eyes were closing and she was having difficulty breathing. Panic!

Continue reading “Adder Bites” →

The Italian Spinone is a large breed and has a pre-disposition to Hip Dysplasia.  By checking both parents hip scores you will have a fairly good idea whether your puppy may be high risk or not, that is not to say that just because the parents have low hip scores your puppy will not develop the disease.

Continue reading “Exercise” →

Dogs are prone to internal and external parasites.  Routine treatment is recommended for fleas and worms.  It is best to discuss treatment with your vet as there is such a wide selection of preparations on the market it would be impossible to recommend one.

Continue reading “Parasites” →

The mouth should be kept clean at all times otherwise a purulent smell can occur, this may be due to rotten food trapped between teeth and in the folds of the mouth.  This can then lead to decaying teeth and fungal infections in the hair just under the lip.  To prevent the above, give large marrow bones or clean the teeth with a veterinary dog tooth paste.

 Following a meal wash the beard to ensure all food particles have been removed.

Continue reading “Mouth and Teeth” →

Spinone have webbed feet so between the pads should always be kept free from dirt, stones, grass seeds etc. This can be done by gently separating the pads while placing each foot into warm water, gently dry in between the webs.

Continue reading “Feet” →

“Large and spongy looking” The nose should be moist to the touch.

Continue reading “Nose” →

The Anal Gland normally empties its self.  The function of the gland is to act as a scent marker.

Continue reading “Anal Glands” →

The coat should ideally be brushed every day to remove dead hair, matting and any foreign bodies, this is particularly important in the Spinone that has a soft or thick coat as there is more likelihood that matting may occur.  Hand stripping will help to keep the coat at a manageable length. 

There are many helpful tools now on the market that can be used instead of hand stripping.  If your dog’s coat starts falling out excessively it could be that the diet requires changing.  If there is a problem with the skin seek your vet’s advice. 

Continue reading “Coat and Skin” →