Heartfelt Goodbyes: A Tribute to Molly and Raffy

Saying Goodbye to Our Beloved Molly

Recently, we faced the hardest part of being dog owners—saying goodbye to our best friends. Tragically, we lost two of our beloved dogs within a week of each other.

Our Miniature Schnauzer, Molly, had become unwell, refusing to eat and drinking very little. After numerous vet visits and tests, we received devastating news—Molly had an extremely aggressive form of cancer called Histiocytic Sarcoma. We had hoped for a few more weeks with her, but when she lost the use of her back legs, we knew it was time to say goodbye.

I reached out to a local pet crematorium, Springfield Farm, but could barely speak through my tears. They were incredibly compassionate and understanding, arranging for a wonderful vet, Charlie from Halo Vets, to visit our home.

Charlie was patient and kind, ensuring Molly’s passing was peaceful. He first administered a sedative so she felt no discomfort. Molly drifted to sleep in her own bed, surrounded by those who loved her most.

After Charlie left, we spent about half an hour with Molly, saying our final goodbyes. Then, James from Springfield Farm arrived to take her, handling everything with dignity and care. Molly was wrapped in her favorite blanket, cuddling her beloved teddy. Since Springfield Farm only performs individual cremations, we had the reassurance that the ashes we received were truly hers.

Two days later, James returned with Molly’s ashes, a cremation certificate, and a beautiful candle. We also had the option to order a keepsake—a paw print, a necklace containing some of her ashes, and a personalized candle with her name and pawprint.

Losing Molly was heartbreaking, but the kindness and compassion we experienced helped us through one of the hardest moments of our lives. 💔

Saying Goodbye to Raffy

We knew that our elderly Westie, Raffy, would struggle without Molly—but we never expected it to happen so soon. Less than a week after losing Molly, Raffy began to decline. Like her sister, she lost the use of her back legs. She had been living with severe arthritis, but losing Molly was simply too much for her.

We took Raffy to Animals Trust Veterinary Hospital in Bolton, where the vets confirmed that the discs in her spine had deteriorated. Due to her advanced age, surgery was not a kind or viable option, and we knew in our hearts that it was time to let her go.

Wanting to spend just a little more time with her, we brought Raffy home for a few final hours in her favorite spot—by the fire. Once again, we reached out to Charlie from Halo Vets and James from Springfield Farm Pet Cremation, even though it was a Saturday evening. Despite the late hour, both were incredibly kind and compassionate.Losing two of our beloved dogs in such a short time was devastating, but knowing they were treated with dignity, love, and kindness brought us some comfort. 💔

Saying goodbye to our beloved pets is never easy—it’s one of the hardest decisions a pet owner can make. But after our experience, we know we would never do it any other way.

Molly and Raffy passed peacefully in their own beds, in the comfort of their home, surrounded by those who loved them most. There was no fear, no stress—just warmth, love, and peace.

We cannot thank Charlie from Halo Vets and James from Springfield Farm Pet Cremation enough. Their professionalism, kindness, and compassion made an incredibly painful time just a little more bearable. If you ever find yourself facing this heartbreaking decision, we highly recommend them both.

I still cry most days and miss them both terribly but each day gets a little bit easier and I know eventually I will think of them both and remember only all the amazing times we had and how lucky I was to have them in my life.

Autumn Tips for Keeping Your Dog Happy and Healthy

Autumn Tips For Keeping Your Dog Healthy & Happy

As the vibrant colors of autumn roll in, it’s a great time for both you and your dog to enjoy the cool breeze, crunchy leaves, and fresh outdoor adventures. But with the beauty of the season comes a few challenges for our furry friends. Here are some essential tips to keep your dog happy and healthy during autumn.

1. Prepare for Cooler Weather

The drop in temperature can be refreshing for dogs, but some may need extra warmth, especially smaller breeds or those with thin coats. Consider investing in a cozy dog sweater or jacket for walks, especially in the mornings or evenings when it’s colder.

2. Watch Out for Seasonal Hazards

Autumn introduces new potential hazards that dog owners should be mindful of:

  • Fallen Leaves: While fun to play in, leaves can hide sharp objects, insects, or mold, which can cause irritation or allergic reactions.
  • Mushrooms: Some wild mushrooms that pop up in damp autumn conditions can be toxic to dogs. Keep an eye on where your dog is sniffing and avoid areas where mushrooms grow.
  • Acorns: Acorns and conkers (horse chestnuts) are also toxic if ingested by dogs, leading to digestive upset and, in severe cases, poisoning.

3. Adjust Your Dog’s Diet

As temperatures drop, some dogs may naturally burn more calories to maintain body heat. If your dog is spending more time outdoors or engaging in extra activities, you might need to adjust their food intake to meet their energy needs. However, be mindful of overfeeding, as autumn can also be a time when dogs are less active, which could lead to weight gain.

4. Be Aware of Fleas and Ticks

Although it’s getting cooler, fleas and ticks remain active in autumn, especially in wooded areas or tall grass. Continue your dog’s flea and tick prevention regimen throughout the fall to protect them from bites and possible infections like Lyme disease.

5. Maintain Regular Grooming

Dogs shed their summer coat in preparation for winter, so autumn is the perfect time for regular brushing to help remove loose fur. Grooming also helps improve circulation and skin health, preventing mats and tangles. Bathing should be done as needed, but avoid over-washing, which can dry out your dog’s skin.

6. Hydration is Still Key

Even though the temperature is cooler, dogs still need plenty of fresh water. When outdoors, they may not seem as thirsty as in summer, but they still need to stay hydrated. Ensure water is available at all times, especially after autumn walks or play sessions.

7. Keep Your Dog Active

Autumn offers the perfect weather for outdoor activities like hiking, running, or just longer walks in the park. The cooler weather makes it easier for dogs to enjoy outdoor time without overheating, but be cautious about the amount of daylight. With the shorter days, make sure to walk your dog during daylight hours or use reflective gear for safety.

8. Create a Warm Indoor Environment

When the outdoor chill becomes too much, ensure your dog has a warm and comfortable space inside. Provide extra blankets or a cozy dog bed to snuggle into. If your floors get cold, placing rugs or mats can help your dog stay warm and comfortable.

9. Watch Out for Halloween Hazards

As Halloween approaches, be mindful of chocolate and other candies that are toxic to dogs. Keep treats and decorations out of reach, and if you’re dressing up your dog, make sure the costume is comfortable, breathable, and doesn’t restrict movement or vision.

10. Enjoy Seasonal Fun

Autumn is a great time to bond with your dog through seasonal activities. Go on nature walks, visit a dog-friendly pumpkin patch, or let your dog play in leaf piles (supervised, of course). The cooler weather and stunning scenery make autumn a perfect time for creating new memories with your canine companion.

By following these autumn tips, you can ensure that your dog enjoys the season safely and comfortably. Whether it’s snuggling up indoors or exploring the outdoors, your dog will appreciate the care you take to protect and nurture them as the weather changes.

Signs of Arthritis In Your Dog

One of the most common issues found in older dogs is arthritis. It’s not just something that affects humans, but something that you should try to recognise as a pet owner. When you learn what it looks like in your dog, you can do something about it sooner and help your pet to live a much more comfortable life. 

Education is important as a pet owner and learning to understand when your dog is in pain can help you to put together a proper diagnosis and treatment plan. Help from veterinary clinics such as The Moores Orthopaedic Clinic is a good place to begin, but you have to begin at home, too. Yoru dog deserves the best possible care and here are the signs that they’ve been dealing with joint pain and arthritis. 

Image source: Pexels

  1. Your dog is getting older. Older dogs are more prone to development of arthritis due to wear and tear that happens over the years. Dogs are naturally bouncy, happy creatures but the pressure this bounce puts on their bones is a LOT! As they get older, they decrease in their levels of activity and you need to watch out for this because dogs will always slow down before they fully stop. Those physical activities they once enjoyed will no longer be the everyday occurrence in your home and you will notice it pretty quickly. 
  2. They look stiff. Stiffness – especially after resting and sleeping – are common as indicators of arthritis in dogs. You may notice them struggling to get up or limping, moving more slowly and generally having a slowed gait. You might also notice their symptoms more pronounced as they try to move in the morning or in the late evening. If your dog has had a period of inactivity, that will also show a more pronounced limp.
  3. They no longer want to jump or climb. A good sign that your dog is dealing with the pain of arthritis is that they no longer want to jump onto furniture, climb the stairs or attempt to get into your bed anymore. These are activities that require significant movement of their joints but when they’re in pain, that isn’t possible anymore. Pay attention to this if your dog is beginning to avoid doing any of these.
  4. They are starting to walk unevenly. A change in gait is another serious sign of arthritis in your dog. You might notice they walk with a stiff or uneven gait and a noticeable limp. This change in movement can indicate pain and discomfort as they favor other legs over the one that is hurting the most. If you do notice this, booking an appointment with an orthopedic center is important. So that they can be scanned or X-rayed to find out the extent of the damage. 
  5. Their joints are swollen. A physical sign of arthritis in your dog is swelling, especially if those swollen joints are warm to touch. Feeling their joints for any unusual swelling or warmth indicates some inflammation, and it can help you to ascertain whether arthritis is something that they are dealing with. Often this is a symptom that accompanies the pain and discomfort they’re feeling, so book an appointment as soon as you can.

5 Secrets To A Healthy Dog

Dog Walking - Ireland

When it comes to your furry friend, you want to make sure they live a long and happy life. This is why it’s essential to know the secrets to keep your dog healthy. This blog post will discuss five of these secrets, from feeding them the right food to exercising them regularly, and also cover everything you need to know in order to give your dog the best chance at a long and happy life!

via Pexels

Feed them a nutritious diet

The first secret to a healthy dog is feeding them a nutritious diet. Just like humans, dogs need a balanced diet that includes all the essential nutrients their bodies need in order to function properly. This means giving them food that is high in protein, fat, and fibre and avoiding processed foods that are high in sugar and unhealthy fats.

There are plenty of great commercial dog foods on the market that meet these criteria. Still, you can also talk to your veterinarian about making your own homemade dog food if you want to be extra sure of what’s going into your puppy’s belly. Either way, just make sure you’re doing your research, so you know your furry friend is getting everything they need!

Give them regular exercise 

Another important secret to a healthy dog is providing them with exercise regularly. Just like humans, dogs need to get their bodies moving in order to stay fit and strong. This means taking them for walks or runs on a daily basis, playing fetch with them in the backyard, or enrolling them in doggy daycare, where they can run and play with other pups all day long! Whatever you do, just make sure your dog is getting at least 30 minutes of exercise each day so they can stay happy and healthy.

In addition to providing your dog with plenty of physical exercises, it’s also important to give them mental stimulation as well. This can be in the form of puzzle toys that they have to figure out in order to get a treat or even just teaching them new tricks to keep their minds active and engaged.

Keep them up-to-date on vaccinations

Another secret to a healthy dog is keeping them up-to-date on their vaccinations. Vaccinations help protect your dog from dangerous diseases and illnesses, so it’s important to make sure they’re current on all of their shots. Your veterinarian will be able to tell you which vaccinations your dog needs based on their age, health, and lifestyle, so be sure to schedule an appointment for them at least once a year.

In addition to vaccinations, it’s also important to keep your dog on a regular deworming and flea/tick prevention schedule. This will help protect them from parasites that can cause serious health problems and also make sure they’re not bringing any unwanted critters into your home!

Groom them regularly

Another secret to a healthy dog is grooming them regularly. This means brushing their fur with a comb from https://youngwoofians.com/ regularly to help reduce shedding, trimming their nails so they don’t get too long, and giving them regular baths using a mild dog shampoo. Grooming not only helps keep your dog looking its best, but it also allows you to bond with them and check for any unusual bumps or lumps that might be a sign of a health problem.

If you’re not sure how to groom your dog properly, you can always take them to a professional groomer or ask your veterinarian for advice. Either way, just make sure you’re taking care of your furry friend’s coat so they can always look and feel their best!

Take them to the vet for regular check-ups

The final secret to a healthy dog is taking them to the vet for regular check-ups. Just like humans, dogs need to see their doctor for routine physical exams and vaccinations. But dogs also need to visit the vet if they’re having any health problems so they can be diagnosed and treated as quickly as possible.

If you’re not sure when your dog’s last visit to the vet was, or if you have any concerns about their health, just give your veterinarian a call, and they’ll be happy to help you out. Regular check-ups are an important part of keeping your dog healthy, so don’t forget to schedule one for them!

In conclusion, by following these five secrets to a healthy dog, you can help your furry friend live a long and happy life. Just remember to do your research, exercise them regularly, keep them up-to-date on vaccinations and parasite prevention, groom them regularly, and take them to the vet for regular check-ups. By following these simple tips, you can help ensure that your dog is always happy and healthy!

Get the most out of playtime!

Cat playtime

If you have got a lil’ fluffy kitten jumping around your house, you sure know how difficult it is to contain that much energy.

Cats may seem inactive but they are not, especially when they’re kittens. They require regular play sessions. These work to engage them mentally, as well as provide much-needed exercise to their body. By creating the right outlet for your pet, you will be able to engage with your cat and learn more about them and their fancies. Playing with them will also enable the development of trust and the strengthening of the beautiful bond that you two share. 

Additionally, in the event where you might have to be out of town for a couple of days, keeping your cat-sitter updated on your pet’s favorite games can help them while away the time. That is until you are back to resume the activities of engaging with your pet. 

Why is Play Important 

Research conducted revealed that at least one hour of play on a regular basis can increase the healthy lifespan of a cat by as much as four hours! Spending time stimulating and interacting with your pet can also improve their mental health and lessen anxiety significantly, even in cats with Down Syndrome. 

Cats need to play just as kids do. It allows them to deal considerably with boredom and build trust with any other people in the family, or even with other cats at home. Did you know that a whopping 59% of all adopted cats in the US are placed in the “overweight” category?

Engaging in regular playtime can create a habit of exercise which is crucial to your cat’s livelihood and can help them cut back on the additional fat gains. Another fact that needs to be kept in mind is that play is a part of a kitten’s natural biology. Regular play stimulates the prey-stalking instincts that a cat has, which helps them remain fit as well as stimulated.  

How to Play with Your Cat 

Discovering how your cat prefers spending its playtime can be an exciting experience for you as well! It is often the part that most cat owners enjoy after a long day at work – watching their pet play with their favorite toys or interacting with them for stimulation. 

There is nothing that could be more stress-busting than spending some time with someone who wants nothing more than for you to relax and have fun. Playtime can also be a good time to learn more about your cat, and for them to learn more about you. 

Remember, however, to play in moderation. Excessive activity can cause your pet to get stressed, angry, or agitated. Over-stimulation can cause them to simply walk away. Shorter play sessions, on the other hand, are more suited to them. Consider four sessions of 10-minute duration every day. Keep in mind, however, that every cat is unique and they have their own requirements for stimulation. 

What Can You Play? 

Read on to discover what games you can play with your pet. Try a combination of these different activities, spread out across the day to figure out what suits your feline friend best. 

  1. Hide and Seek 

A classic favorite of all felines! Choose one of your pet’s toys, probably the one that they mostly play with, and hide it under a blanket. Maybe consider attaching a string to it so you can wiggle the toy, causing the kitten to lay a laser-sharp focus on the movement before jumping over it and claiming it. 

  1. Fetch 

A game that has been attributed mostly to a cat’s canine counterpart, not many know that felines actually enjoy playing fetch. Or if not fetch, they definitely do enjoy chasing after and catching a ball that you may have thrown for them. Ball toys are among the most preferred toys for cats because they stimulate the unexpected and quick movements of prey. 

Adding a bell to the toy can work to catch your kitten’s attention, arousing their natural instincts to chase after the object causing the noise. 

  1. Walking 

Another often unrecognized activity is that cats can actually be trained to walk on leashes. Many enjoy the activity of exploring the outdoors and putting it on a leash can help keep it safe from any other animals, cars, or from the potential of getting lost. Walking together can also be a great exercise that you both can engage in together, starting the day the right way or ending it on a good note. 

  1. Scratching 

If there’s one thing your feline loves – it is putting their claws to good use and keeping them in shape! You can help them with this by installing a scratching post in your house (the taller it is, the more your cat will enjoy it). 

  1. Train It! 

Cats are curious creatures, and more than willing to learn but only if they are interested. You can begin the training by having some treats reading and let it sniff it. Issue a command and wait to see if your cat responds. If it does respond, regard it with a treat and repeat the command around 5-10 times. Giving it a treat every time it responds will reinforce the behavior and voila! Your kitten has learned a new trick! 

  1. Sing with your Cat 

Cats are very vocal animals and have no problems engaging in actual conversation with you. So the next time it meows at you responds in the same pitch and tone. We can bet it will give you a retort. As long as you keep echoing its noises, it will keep being vocally engaged with you. 

  1. Laser Pointers 

Use a laser pointer to grab your kitten’s attention and have it running around the room, chasing the target it has fixated upon. This can make for a pretty entertaining activity for you as well. 

Remember that your cat is going to have its own preferences for location, time of the day, movement, noise, scent, and size of the toys you use. Regularly playing with it can allow you to understand what it most prefers, allowing you to make the most of your playtime together! 

How Much Exercise Does My Dog Need?

How much exercise does my dog need?

All dogs need regular exercises to stay happy and healthy. It’s just as important as regular veterinary care, quality food and loving care in that it affects their health and behavior. If you’re like most dog lovers, you want the best for your dog but the question that’s often hard to answer is “How much exercise does a dog really need every day?”

What happen’s if my dog doesn’t get enough exercise?

Many dog owners see to it that their canine companions exercise regularly but what if your dog has not been getting enough exercise? The goal isn’t just to get your pooch out and about; rather it is to ensure that they get the amount of physical activity needed to tone their muscles, stimulate their brain, promote good behavior, increase socialization and encourage their body and metabolism to function well.

If a dog doesn’t get enough physical activity, the following problems can occur:

  • Destructive behaviors like chewing, eliminating in the house, increased aggression etc.
  • Disinterest in human company, which could be a sign of depression
  • Hyperactivity when they’re on a walk
  • Excessive barking
  • Weight gain and joint issues

How much exercise does a dog need daily?

The amount of exercise a dog needs varies as there are a few factors to consider such as age, breed and health. Dogs have different exercise needs but experts generally recommend that dogs should get between 30 minutes and 2 hours of exercises each day. So how do you figure out the amount of physical activity your dog needs? Here are a few standard guidelines you can follow.

Exercising a puppy

Generally, puppies have a lot of energy that needs to be discharged, which explains why they tend to get injured easily. You probably have seen your puppy race madly around the house a few times only to collapse into a puppy pile, preferably in your laps.

Because they are very energetic,   it is recommended to exercise your puppy both mentally and physically however, the exercises should be broken into different short bursts that include walks and play sessions as they are too young to take a really long walk.

Since puppies are quite young, you might want to keep the exercises short until your puppy gets used to them. For instance, you can start with 10 minutes three times a day and increase the amount of time as your pup gets used to it.    A rule of thumb for puppies is 5 minutes of exercise for each month of age twice a day.

Exercising an adult dog

An adult dog can also be energetic but the amount of exercise required varies based on breeds. Some dog breeds require more exercises than others. For instance, larger and giant breeds are typically strong and have good stamina if they’re in good health. However, some larger breeds like Greyhounds aren’t as active as others and, therefore, require a little less amount of physical activity.

For medium breeds, they are also energetic and require lots of physical exercises. If your dog is a medium sized terrier such as Staffies, you may need to devote extra time to exercising them.

Some smaller breeds don’t require as much exercise compared to the larger ones and can do well with one hour of exercise per day. Some breeds like poodles and terriers can take on extra time of physical activity.

Exercising a senior dog

Your senior dog may not be as active like before due to age and possible health issues that may limit how active they can be. They tend to slow down or rest often during exercises, so it’s important to keep this in mind so you don’t push your aging dog too much.

However, you still need to exercise your senior dog as it can help keep their joints, ligaments, and muscles strong and supple. It can be hard to figure out how much exercise your dog needs but as the owner, you know your dog best, meaning you should be able to determine how much exercises your dog can handle or if in doubt, check with your dogs usual veterinarian.

Wrap-up

There are plenty of outdoor and indoor exercises that can help your dog stay healthy and fit but it’s essential to keep in mind their age, breed and health when deciding how much time to devote to exercising them.    Mental stimulation is equally important so also spend time on training and enrichment activities.

If you need any help with walking your dog then don’t hesitate to contact us on 0333 200 5827 or email info@scampsandchamps.co.uk

How Do I Clean My Dogs Teeth?

How Do I Clean My Dogs Teeth?

Your dog’s teeth are used for more than just eating, they also use their teeth during play and to learn about their surroundings.

And just like us, dogs can get dental problems If their teeth are not cared for. Your dog can suffer serious health issues including gingivitis that can lead to gum disease and tooth loss. Bad teeth can also affect dogs that have heart problems by allowing infections to travel through the bloodstream.

If your dog has bad breath (thats not caused by any underlying illness) and a yellow/brown hard coating of plaque building up over their teeth, it’s time to do something about it.

It’s always best to start from an early age – but you can still get them comfortable with teeth cleaning, whatever their age.

Use a time when your dog is relaxed and keep the training sessions short, don’t force the issue or your dog will never want you near their mouth.

Start by getting them used to having your hand near their mouth – this can be done by gently stroking your dog’s face and cheek very gently – stop if your dog gets upset – do this over a period of several days so that your dog knows you are not going to hurt them.

The next stage is to put dog toothpaste (never use human toothpaste) onto your finger and allow them to lick it off – again do this for a few days.

Once your dog is happy with this, you can start with the tricky stuff

– using the toothpaste, run your finger along the inside of their mouth very gently. After a few days you can move on to the next stage.

Buy a suitable dog toothbrush and introduce this with the toothpaste on and just let them lick it off the brush.

Do this over a few days until your dog is happy with it and then slowly introduce the toothbrush inside their mouth, using gentle round motions, just do the front teeth first always let them lick the brush in between. Do this for a few days.

Slowly but surely move to the back teeth – do it ever so gently, stop if they get distressed and always praise them and let them have the toothbrush to lick so this becomes the reward.

After several weeks you should be able to clean their teeth without too many problems – always try to clean where the teeth meet the gum margin but always be gentle.

You can use vet approved dental chews and treatments that can be added to their water bowl that will help to maintain their oral hygiene between brushing.

If your dog’s teeth are very bad or have a large build up of tartar then speak to your vet who will arrange for the teeth to be specially cleaned.

Don’t worry if it takes longer for your dog to get used to having their teeth cleaned, just keep praising them and take it very gently one step at a time.

Take A Look At Scamps And Champs Very Own Range Of natural And Specialised Foods, And Chews. To Discuss Our Range Call Us On : Tel 0333 200 5827. 10% discount for new customers using code SCAMPSNEW at checkout.

Autumn Hazards For Dogs

Autumn Hazards For Dogs - Scamps & Champs

Keeping your pet safe – Hazards to look out for during Autumn

The leaves are starting to change colour and fall, conkers and acorns can be found aplenty on the ground, bushes and trees are full of luscious berries, It’s a sure sign that autumn is finally here.

However, the autumn also brings some hazards for your pet that you need to be aware of.

Seasonal Canine Illness

Seasonal Canine Illness (SCI) has been under investigation since September 2010. It’s a mystery illness generally seen between the months of August and November which can affect dogs of any size, shape or sex, it can cause dogs to become very ill. The condition appears very quickly after the dog has been walked in woodland.

The most common clinical signs are :

  • Sickness
  • Diarrhoea
  • Lethargy

These signs are typically experienced within 72 hours of walking in woodland.

If you suspect your dog is showing signs of SCI then contact your vet immediately.

Leaves and leaf mould

Piles of leaves can develop bacteria and mould. If your dog ingests these it can lead to gastrointestinal upsets.

Contact your vet if you think your pet has ingested leaf mould.

Conkers

It can be rare for a dog to be poisoned by the Conker, however, ingestion can cause gastrointestinal problems, signs to look out for

are:

  • Drooling
  • Retching
  • Vomiting
  • Diarrhoea
  • Abdominal pain

The conker can also cause intestinal blockages, and though dogs normally vomit any ingested conkers quite quickly, you should always seek help from your vet.

Acorns

Exposure to acorns is common in the autumn and winter. Acorns have a toxic ingredient thought to be tannic acid, which can cause damage to the liver and kidneys.

Signs of ingestion include:

  • Vomiting
  • Diarrhoea
  • Abdominal pain and lethargy
  • Ingested acorns can also cause an intestinal blockage

Berries

Both elderberries and holly berries can cause stomach upsets in dogs.

But the most dangerous berry-bearing plants are deadly nightshade with its shiny black berries; cuckoo pint, aka lords-and-ladies (which produces spikes of orange-red berries), and mistletoe. All are typically found in woodland.

Many popular ivy plants, including English ivy and Devil’s ivy/Golden Pothos, have moderate toxicity to pets.

Signs of ingestion include:

  • Mouth and stomach irritation
  • Excessive drooling
  • Foaming at the mouth
  • Swelling of the mouth, tongue and lips
  • Vomiting
  • Diarrhoea

If your pet has eaten berries, take them to the vet for treatment – always try to take a sample of the berry for the vet to identify.

Glow sticks

If you or your children like to use/play with glow sticks around the bonfire, please ensure that your pet can’t get hold of them

The chemical mixture inside of both luminous jewellery and glow sticks can cause irritation to your pets gums, it can also cause:

  • Dribbling
  • Frothing and foaming at the mouth
  • Vomiting and stomach pain

Thankfully, although the signs can look dramatic, ingestion is unlikely to cause significant problems – however, you should always seek professional help and advice from your vet.

For Something Nutritious And Delicious That Your Dog/Cat Can Eat All Year Round, Take A Look At Our pet food webpage and See Our Excellent Range Of Pet Food, Tooth Chews And Treats. All of our recipes are made here in the UK with ethically sourced ingredients.

To Discuss Our Pet Food Please Call Us On 0333 200 5827.

Pets & Anxiety

Separation Anxiety In Dogs - Scamps & Champs

by Victoria Brierley

Dogs are very much susceptible to some of the emotional struggles that humans can have. Anxiety is very much one of these struggles.

There are a few types of anxieties that a dog can suffer from. Separation anxiety is the most common form and can occur with examples such as when the dog owner leaves the house, leading to the dog feeling stressed. Other common anxieties consist of noise phobia, which triggers dogs to be stressed by loud noises, as well as social anxiety which causes a dog to feel uncomfortable in social situations.

Food for thought

Pets & Anxiety - Scamps & Champs

Pets suffering from separation anxiety may tend to display unwanted behaviours which can include: 

  • Excessive vocalisation
  • Excessive panting
  • Destructive behaviour such as chewing and tearing objects in their surroundings
  • Urination/defecating in the home

There may be a number of reasons why some dogs feel this way but not all of these behaviours are a direct result of separation anxiety, so owners need to determine if these behaviours only occur when the pet is left alone.

Food = Fun

Mental stimulation is a very useful and effective method of helping to manage pets suffering from anxiety.

Interactive feeding is an excellent way to keep their mind at rest and their mouths occupied when pets find themselves on their own.

Puzzle feeders and treat balls are a great way to help keep pets stimulated. These toys should only be given when the owner is not present, this way the pet can learn to associate the experience of receiving this ‘special toy’ and being alone, much more positively.

Here at Scamps & Champs, our Grain Free, Superfood and Treat recipes can all be used in conjunction with puzzle feeders, kongs, truffle mats and treat balls. Our 80% fish treats are small and ideal to hide in truffle mats and puzzle feeders.

Scamps & Champs - Pet Food
https://scampsandchampspetfood.com/

Always make sure to take into account any additional treats from the portion of your pets normal daily ration to prevent overfeeding.

Exercise and Training

There is strong evidence that clinical signs of anxiety can often be a result of failure to provide a pet with sufficient regular daily exercise. Exercising your pet before you are due to leave them alone provides them with the opportunity to go to the toilet and tire them out so they’re much more inclined to relax. You can also hire a pet sitter/dog walker to provide pop in visits or dog walks to break up your dogs day.

Contact us to find out more at info@scampsandchamps.co.uk or call us today on 0333 200 5827

Find your local branch here:- https://scampsandchamps.co.uk/branches/

Are Mixed Breed Dogs (Mutts) Healthier Than Purebreed Dogs

Are mixed mutts healthier than pure breeds

When  it comes to choosing the right pup for you and your family, there are many things to think about.  One consideration is what type of dog is the right fit for your lifestyle as a family.  Are you the outdoorsy types or do you like a more laid back lifestyle?  You will want a dog that fits in and doesn’t have the type of behavioural problems that will upset the status quo. Another consideration may be whether to get a mixed breed (mutt) or a purebred dog.

There are pros and cons as well as some misconceptions and inaccuracies about both, so it’s important to always do your research long before you go out to find your forever companion and not just go along with what happens to be the fashion of the moment.

Scamps and Champs Cardiff,  have provided some information to help you get a better idea of which may be the right choice for you.

MUTTS

The general consensus among many veterinary professionals  is that mixed breeds dogs, in general, tend to be hardier and more resilient to genetic disease, they also are known to have greater longevity than purebred dogs.

Vets will also tell you that many mutts have a lower rate of  

problematic health conditions throughout their lives, such as hip dysplasia, spinal diseases, and knee problems, they also develop less cancers and heart problems than their purebred counterparts. This results in less specialised care and lower veterinary costs throughout their lifetime.

Due to their mixed genes, mutts are less likely to have received a high dose of any particular breed’s genes. Because of this, Mutts are generally sturdier than their purebred counterparts., and these mixed genetics often create an increase in the effectiveness of their immune system, making them better able to overcome various infectious diseases.  Mutts also tend to be very laid back in temperament, they can be much easier to train, and of course they are much more adaptable to their owners lifestyle and activity levels.

PUREBREDS

The drawback to inbreeding related animals in order to select and reproduce certain desired aspects, such as specific colour, physical or behavioural traits ,or breeding for certain tasks such as hunting, herding or guarding, is that there is a risk of reproducing genetically linked unwanted effects as well. Although there are no hard and fast statistics on the subject, it goes without saying that breeding animals that share similar genetics is going to increase the likelihood of passing on diseases or other conditions.

Minor mutations can exist through generations and can cluster in some breeds without too many problems, but continual inbreeding to improve certain traits in the dog may be sufficient to cause these mutations to become prolific, and can lead to the inherited and unwanted traits spreading through the breed and becoming more dominant.

Hence, medical problems such as inherited blindness, brain disorders, and certain cancers can create a cluster effect in certain breeds. 

Inbreeding can also affect behavioural characteristics of dogs if taken too far, creating neurotic or maladjusted dogs, as can be seen in the Jekyll & Hyde Syndrome which can affect certain breeds.

So unless you have a specific requirement for the assets of a particular breed you need to be aware that some of these traits can become problematic over time and can cost a small fortune in vets bills.

When it comes to considering inherited health issues, it’s important to remember that all dogs carry the risk of susceptibility to disease, both genetic and infectious. That said, research is showing that good breeding practices and early disease screening could reduce the number of overall health issues.

So once you have decided that you want a purebred pet it is of paramount importance that you find a good, reliable breeder. 

Unfortunately, there are some bad, “backyard” breeders out there that you need to be aware of; but the good news is that there are many great breeders out there as well, and there are great online resources available so it’s easy to do some research on particular breeders and check credentials.

Always ask the breeder as many questions as you can and always insist on seeing the parents with the pups, and see them as many times as you can before you take them home.

A good breeder will have screened the dam and sire for specific conditions and should also have included a puppy package as part of the deal – this means that your pup should have had at least its first injections before you get it.  As a result, you can expect to pay more for a pure bred dog than a mutt.

Whatever dog you have or decide to have in your life, Scamps and Champs Cardiff provides a range of services to help when you can’t be there or when you’re taking a much needed break. From a one off pet visit to holiday boarding and doggie day care and dog walks. We also cover care for puppies/kittens onto adult and elderly dogs/cats, Rabbits and all creatures furry, fishy or feathered, we have a service tailored just for you.

WE ARE ALSO PROUD TO ANNOUNCE THAT WE ARE NOW STOCKING A FABULOUS RANGE OF ORGANIC AND SPECIALISED PET FOODS.

Call us to discuss how we can help you and your best friend either with services or pet foods.

Tel: 0333 200 5827

email : cardiff@scampsandchamps.co.uk