What is pyometra? Pyometra is a not uncommon condition that can affect the uterus of middle aged and older pet un-neutered female dogs (and more rarely cats). Following any normal oestrus, (‘heat’ or ‘season’) levels of the hormone progesterone remain elevated for approximately 8-10 weeks. The purpose is to increase the lining of the uterus in order that foetuses can be nourished during pregnancy. If pregnancy does not occur and the level of progesterone does not return to its original […]
Senior Pets
Senior pets by Liam Moriarty MVB, Hermitage Veterinary Hospital, Lucan One of the most common questions I get asked as a vet in relation to senior pets is “How long more will my pet live?”. Usually this is a very difficult question to answer. I have treated cats as old as 23 and 24 and I have treated a dog as old as 20. However it is not uncommon for a pet to die of age related disease as early as […]

Ultrasound Examination
Ultrasound examinations, ultrasonography or echosonography, to use some of the terms, is an imaging technique in which deep structures of the body can be visualised by recording echoes of ultrasonic waves which are directed into the tissues. Ultrasound waves are considered to be entirely safe. The principal involves directing a narrow beam of high frequency sound waves that may be transmitted through, reflected off or absorbed by the tissue toward which they are pointed, depending on the nature of the […]
Brushing your dog’s teeth!
See also Commandment 8: Dental care is Vital Teaching your dog to accept brushing will take some training, but will be very beneficial to the dog once he is accustomed to the process. Daily brushing is most beneficial and will help to establish a routine for your pet, but brushing twice a week is acceptable if your schedule can’t accommodate daily brushing. Instructions Choose a quiet time and place to start the brushing. It is best to teach your dog […]

Antifreeze poisoning
ANTIFREEZE is deadly for dogs and cats. It’s sweet tasting and they will often drink it if they find it spilt, or if it drips from a car radiator. If your pet drinks it you need to get to the vet as fast as you can – this is an extreme emergency. Left untreated any pet that has ingested antifreeze WILL die from seizures and/or acute kidney failure, and even with treatment they may well die. It’s absolutely deadly. For […]

Obesity epidemic hits American Pets
Kim Stevens has a problem that affects tens of millions of Americans. If left untreated, it could lead to the death of someone she loves, someone who’s part of the family. Stevens’ dog Dodger, a brown and white mixed breed, is obese. According to a new study, he’s emblematic of a growing problem. The majority of adult dogs and cats in U.S. homes are overweight or obese, and the problem has gotten worse over the past year, according to the […]
10 Commandments
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National Microchipping Month August 10, 2014
- Tail docking in dogs August 10, 2014
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Pyometra – don’t risk it, have her neutered! August 2, 2014
- Senior Pets July 21, 2014
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Ginga’s story. How best to deal with the feral cat situation problem. July 13, 2014