Latest News from Avonvale

Are you interested in becoming a Veterinary Nurse but not sure how? One of our students nurses, Jaz, has told us of her experiences and route to becoming a registered Veterinary Nurse.

Just as the winter weather was setting in a member of the public bought a small hedgehog into our Stratford upon Avon surgery. He had been found in the middle of a car park during daylight hours. At just 97g he would not have survived the winter.Denni, one of our nurses, took him in. Over winter she kept him warm and well fed. His favourite food was meal worms but as these have little nutritional value they were rationed to encourage him to eat his healthier hedgehog mix. Over the winter he has grown big and strong, now weighing in at a healthy 700g.

Marley was brought in to our Wellesbourne surgery because his owner was worried he was vomiting and off his food.

Don't under estimate the temptation of chocolate for dogs and keep it well out of reach especially at Easter. It's not just a dodgy tummy that we worry about.

This is 15 year old Buddy who came in to see vet Mark at Southam for his check up after an unfortunate encounter with a fish hook and line at the weekend.

Myomatosis is a disease that affects rabbit. It causes puffy, fluid filled swellings. They can get "sleepy eyes", swollen lips and swellings around their rear ends. In some the swelling is so severe that it can cause blindness. Most rabbits will then stop eating and drinking and can develop breathing problems.

• Regular tooth brushing is the best way of keeping your pet’s teeth clean. Both dogs and cats will generally allow tooth brushing once they are used to the idea but it may take a few weeks to establish a regular routine. It’s very important to use a pet toothpaste as human toothpaste can be dangerous for pets
• Diet can be very important in preventing tartar build-up on teeth. Try to feed your pet good quality dry foods rather than soft foods, as the latter tend to stick to the teeth, allowing the rapid build-up of tartar. Some diets are especially formulated to help keep teeth in the best possible condition. If you are considering changing your pet’s diet, please speak to our vets and nurses for advice.
• Start early as some pets can be a little shy of their mouth being opened. A gentle mouth examination should be part of your general puppy training (along with looking in the ears and looking at the feet – all sensitive areas) to get your pet used to this type of handling. Our nursing team will show you how to do this when you attend routine puppy checks or one of our puppy parties.
• Regular check-ups with your veterinary practice are essential for your pet’s oral health.

Throughout March we are offering free dental checks with a qualified veterinary nurse who can check your pets teeth, give you advice on preventative dental care and provide you with a complimentary finger brush to help you get started.

We are very pleased to announce that we have received lots of nominations for the Petplan awards this year. Our Kenilworth, Stratford, Southam and Wellesbourne surgeries have all been nominated for "Practice of the Year". Vets Kieran, Sophie, Penny B, Deborah and Becky have each been nominated for "Vet of the Year". Maddi, Michelle and Anna H have been nominated for "Vet Nurse of the Year." Jodie and Nicole were both nominated for the "Support Staff of the Year" and Liz K has been nominated for "Receptionist of the Year."

Our pets rely on us to make sure that their teeth and oral health are in good order. They are not able to brush their teeth twice daily and take themselves off to the dentist every 6 months as we do, so we must take care of their teeth for them.

We would like to say a huge thank you for all your very generous donations to our Christmas Shoe Box Appeal. We have had an amazing response, with lots of food and toys having been donated.