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 Glasgow 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 Avenues Vets 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 Glasgow 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 Avenues 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 Glasgow to discuss the most suitable options for your pet with you – get in touch.
- Professional Help: For severe cases, book an appointment at Avenues 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 Glasgow for advice.
Sunshine, longer days, and summertime adventures are here. But as temperatures rise, so does the need to adjust your pet’s care routine. Grooming is no exception. Here at Avenues Vets, we’ve put together some tips to keep your furry friends cool and comfortable with our summer grooming strategies for dogs, cats, rabbits, and guinea pigs.
If you would like some more advice on pet grooming, or need any help with matting, nail clips and other pet care needs, our Registered Veterinary Nurses at Glasgow are here to help.
Top tips for summer grooming
Brushing up on the importance
Avenues Vets’ nursing team advise that regular brushing is essential all year round, but it becomes especially important during the summer months. Brushing removes loose fur, which can trap heat and make your pet uncomfortable.
- Long-haired pets: Brush daily to prevent matting, which can be a real problem in hot weather.
- Medium-haired breeds: Aim for a few brushes a week.
- Short-haired companions: Weekly brushing is still beneficial.
The summer trim
For some long-haired dog breeds, a summer trim can be a great way to help them stay cool. However, it’s important not to go overboard. A double coat actually provides natural insulation, which is good for temperature regulation, so avoid shaving your dog too short. Ask our nurses or a qualified groomer for advice on the right summer style for your dog breed.
Keeping smaller pets cool
Rabbits and guinea pigs don’t typically need haircuts, but regular brushing is still important. For long-haired rabbits, consider a trim around their rear end to keep them clean and comfortable. Never attempt to shave these small pets yourself, as their skin is delicate and easily injured.
Gentle on the go
Summer often means more outdoor adventures with your pet. After walks or playtime outside, Avenues Vets’ nursing team advise that owners should check their pet’s fur for ticks, fleas, and burrs (small, prickly seed pods or seed heads). Use a pet-safe flea comb and brush to gently remove any unwanted hitchhikers.
Top tips for all
- Hydration is Key: Ensure your pet has constant access to fresh, clean water.
- Beware the Midday Sun: Limit walks and playtime to the cooler parts of the day.
- Cooling Comforts: Provide shady areas for your pet to relax in and consider a cooling mat for them to lie on. Small furry pets may enjoy lying on a cold tile, or against a bottle of frozen water wrapped in a towel.
By following these simple summer grooming tips, you can help your dog, cat, rabbit, or guinea pig stay cool, comfortable, and looking their best all season long.
If you have any questions or concerns about your pet’s grooming needs, don’t hesitate to book a consultation with Avenues Vets’ nursing team at Glasgow. They’re always happy to help!
Whether you live with cats, you’re adding a new feline member to the family, or you just… love… cats, this article is for you! Vet Nicola Armstrong has created this Happy Cat guide for anyone who is curious about cats and wants to understand these majestic creatures even better.
You can talk specifics about your own cat, book an appointment, or get advice on adopting a new cat by calling our cat-loving team at Avenues Vets on 0141 643 0404.
Get curious about cats
Do cats have a specific personality type? Can you tell if they are happy or how to make them happy? What’s your cat’s “love language”? Have a read of Nicola’s guide below…
Cat personality types
Nicola suggests that while breed isn’t a guarantee of a cat’s temperament, some breeds are known for certain traits. Here’s a quick rundown:
- The Social Butterfly: Breeds like Siamese, Burmese, and Abyssinians are known for being outgoing, playful, and loving attention. They might even follow you around the house!
- The Laid-Back Lounger: Persian, Ragdoll, and British Shorthair cats tend to be more easy-going and relaxed. They enjoy cuddles and quiet time but can still be playful.
- The Independent Spirit: Some breeds like Bengals, Singapura, and Maine Coons can be a bit more independent. While they’ll still show affection, they might also crave their own space and enjoy exploring.
Remember: these are just general tendencies, and every cat is unique. Their upbringing and experiences will also shape their personality. Nicola says spending quality time and observing behaviours and interactions is key to understanding their love language and personality.
7 happy cat cues
Nicola explains that while purring is the most obvious signal your cat feels comfortable and settled, it’s not the only marker of happiness. Here are some more common signifiers of a contented kitty:
- Relaxed posture with no stiffness when lying down
- Kneading – a nostalgic kittenhood behaviour
- Warm greetings of rubbing around your legs
- Playfulness
- Eating well
- Staying well-groomed and grooming you
- High-pitched meows typically show contentment or attention seeking
However, Nicola notes that cat communication is complex, with vocalisations varying widely. Consider body language, context, and specific sounds when interpreting a cat’s emotions. For better understanding, observe your cat’s overall behaviour and vocal patterns in different situations.
Feline love languages
While the concept of “love languages” (the way love is expressed and received) is typically applied to humans, cats definitely communicate affection in different ways. Below, Nicola suggests how your feline friend might show and receive love:
- Physical Touch: Enjoys scratching & stroking, giving head-butts, and snuggles. Notice their petting preferences.
- Quality Time: Shows love through cuddle sessions or playtime.
- Acts of Service: Feels secure with a clean litter box, fresh food/water, and toys.
- Words of Affirmation: Responds to gentle, loving tones.
- Gifts: Shares dead mice or feathers as a sign of trust.
By understanding your cat’s love language, you can strengthen your bond and ensure they feel happy and loved. Although, you may want to ignore wildlife “gifts” and hope your cat chooses something else!
At Avenues Vets, we adore cats! We love getting to know them and their individual personalities. We also love helping Lanarkshire cat owners understand more about their feline friends so, do get in touch.
Like what you read? Share our article with the ‘cat people’ in your life!
Like us, most dogs are social creatures and like it best when they are around others. This can lead to some dogs feeling anxious when left alone, even for short periods. While it’s important not to leave dogs alone for extended times, some – especially new pets and puppies – might struggle even with brief separations.
If you’re worried your dog might have separation anxiety, our Vet Nicola Armstrong at Avenues Vets can offer guidance and support.
Spotting the signs of dog separation anxiety
Nicola advises that you should look out for these signs that your dog might be getting anxious:
- Pre-departure Jitters: As you get ready to head out, your dog might become restless, or start panting or pacing. They might try to follow you around or scratch at doors and carpets.
- Vocalisations: Whining, howling, or barking are common signs of distress in dogs left alone.
- Destructive Behaviour: The first 15 minutes after you leave can be the toughest for your dog. Their fear might manifest in chewing on something with your scent, seeking comfort from your presence.
- Overly Excited Greetings: When you finally return home, your dog might be super happy to see you, showering you with attention and perhaps following you around the house. They may also urinate on the spot.
Nicola also advises that a pet camera can be extremely useful in spotting the signs of an anxious dog. A camera will allow you to monitor them from just outside your front door so you can assess what’s going on, before you leave for longer.
Helping your dog feel comfortable alone
Nicola wants Lanarkshire dog owners to know there is good news; separation anxiety in dogs can be managed. Here are some tips from Nicola to get you started:
- Ideally Start Them Young: Gradually introduce your dog to being alone for short periods from a young age. Pick a designated area to be their comfortable space. Don’t confine them there only when they’re going to be alone, as they will then associate it with isolation. Instead, make it part of their normal routine to hang out there while you are in the house.
- Create a Safe Haven: Use a baby gate to create a space where your dog can see and hear what’s going on in the house while still feeling secure. Leave them with a tasty chew toy when you pop out for a few minutes, gradually increasing the duration of your absences.
- Normalise Comings and Goings: Avoid over-fussing your dog when you are about to leave and when you return so they don’t associate it with being left alone.
- Make it Cosy: Ensure their safe space has a comfy bed, fresh water, and some chew toys to keep them occupied. Chewing can be calming for dogs.
- Drown Out Distractions: Consider leaving a quiet radio playing to mask any outside noises that might startle your dog.
- The Power of Scent: Leaving an item of clothing with your scent on it can provide comfort for your dog while you’re away.
- Diffuse the Excitement: Let your dog outside for “toilet time” as soon as you return home, before greeting them. This can help to diffuse their initial excitement and keep any ‘accidents’ outdoors.
Need More Help?
If you would like more advice on separation anxiety tailored to your dog, our Vet, Nicola Armstrong, is happy to help. Don’t hesitate to contact us at Avenues Vets.
As our beloved dogs age, their behaviour and social skills can sometimes regress. It’s not uncommon for a previously well-socialised dog to develop new anxieties or react poorly in certain situations. This is where refreshing your grown-up dog’s social skills can make a significant difference. In this article, Vet Nicola Armstrong explains how you can help your adult dog regain their social confidence.
Before we dive in, Nicola stresses that it’s important for Lanarkshire 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 Avenues Vets before starting a re-socialisation journey with your dog.
Why refresh your dog’s socialisation skills
Nicola 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 Nicola’s refresher socialisation tips for adult dogs
Before you begin, Nicola says it’s wise to remember that refreshing your dog’s socialisation skills requires patience, a structured approach, and positive reinforcement. 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. Acclimatise to New Sounds: If your dog reacts to specific sounds, such as the doorbell, hoover, thunder, or fireworks, you can desensitise them over time by playing recordings at a low volume. Reward your dog when they remain calm, gradually increasing the volume over time.
3. Experience Different Environments: Gradually reintroduce your dog to various environments. Start with calm, familiar places like a friend’s house or your local Lanarkshire 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.
4. 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 play in secure areas. Always monitor interactions closely to ensure they are positive. Nicola advises choosing a controlled environment away from home, as dogs are naturally territorial over their own space.
5. 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 hope you found Nicola’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.
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 Avenues Vets have crafted a simple guide to help pet owners in Lanarkshire navigate the process of pet food shopping.
Book a Tailored Nutrition Appointment
As vets, we’re often asked about the vast array of pet food choices on the market. From kitten kibble to 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
- Growing Pains: 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.
- The Prime of Life: 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, while containing glucosamine and chondroitin to support joint health.
Our experienced team at Avenues 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 Glasgow 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.
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.
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 Avenues Vets want pet owners in Lanarkshire 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, and consulting your vet, you’re giving your pet the nutritional foundation they need to thrive at every stage of their life.
Book a Tailored Nutrition Appointment
Did you know you can buy a range of top-quality, vet-recommended complete pet foods at Avenues Vets? Book a tailored nutrition appointment with our team to discuss your pet’s needs.
*Stats from www.europeanpetfood.org
Adopting a pet can be a joyful and rewarding experience. However, vets in Glasgow advise that asking the right questions beforehand can help you make an informed decision and create a harmonious environment for your new family member. Below are some key questions to consider.
When you collect your new pet, be sure to register them with Avenues Vets where they will receive the very best care.
Questions to ask before adopting a pet
Our vets in Glasgow have compiled these 7 important questions:
1. Why do you want to adopt a pet?
Understanding your motivation for adopting a pet is crucial. Are you looking for companionship, a playmate for another pet, or a specific breed for its characteristics? Reflecting on your reasons will help you choose the right pet that fits your lifestyle and expectations.
2. What are the pet’s needs?
Dogs, cats, rabbits, and any other type of pet have unique needs, including nutrition, exercise, housing, and veterinary care. Our vets highly recommend researching the specific needs of your desired pet type or breed to ensure you’re prepared. For example, certain dog breeds may require more exercise and mental stimulation, while some cats might have special dietary needs. If you have questions about caring for a particular pet type or breed, feel free to reach out to our team for advice on 0141 643 0404.
3. What is the pet’s history?
Understanding a pet’s background can provide insight into their behaviour and any potential challenges. Ask your local pet rescue centre in Lanarkshire, or further afield, about the pet’s previous living conditions, any medical history, and reasons for being up for adoption. This information will help you prepare for any behavioural issues or medical needs.
4. What are your living arrangements?
Consider your home environment and how it will accommodate a new pet. Do you have enough space for a lively dog or a secure area for a curious cat? If you rent, does your landlord allow pets? Additionally, think about any potential hazards in your home that need to be addressed before bringing your new pet home. Our vets in Glasgow vets advise that hazards might include breakables, escape routes, toxic substances and plants, and other pets.
5. What is your lifestyle like?
Your daily routine and lifestyle will significantly impact your pet’s wellbeing. Consider how much time you can dedicate to your pet for exercise, training, and socialisation. If you travel frequently or work long hours, think about how you will provide for your pet’s needs during your absence. Search for pet sitters and dog walkers in Glasgow and Lanarkshire to find out costs and availability.
6. Are you prepared for the long-term commitment?
Adopting a pet is a long-term commitment that can last many years. Ensure you are ready for the responsibilities of pet ownership, including the financial costs of food, supplies, and veterinary care. Consider the time and effort required to train and care for your pet throughout their life stages. We’re here if you have any questions about the long-term needs of the type of pet or breed you are considering – call us on 0141 643 0404 for advice.
7. How will you integrate the pet into your family?
If you have other pets or young children, think about how your new pet will fit into the existing family dynamic. Our vets advise that introductions should be gradual and supervised to ensure a smooth transition. Make sure to discuss with family members their roles and responsibilities in caring for the new pet.
Time to register your new pet
At Avenues Vets, we’re here to guide you through the joy of pet adoption. Register your new pet at our vet practice in Glasgow for top-notch care and a healthy start in their new home. Our team offers advice, vaccinations, health checks, and more to keep your new pet happy and thriving.
Rabbits are social creatures, thriving in the company of their own kind. If you’re a bunny owner in Lanarkshire pondering the idea of adding a companion to your furry friend’s life, we’ve got just the article for you! Read our rabbit-loving team’s advice on how to pick the best pal for your pet.
Ask us for tips on introducing new rabbit pals
First things first, where to find rabbit friends…
One way to find a suitable companion for your rabbit is by reaching out to local animal shelters in and around Lanarkshire. Rescue shelters often have rabbits in need of loving homes and companionship. By adopting from a shelter, you’re not only give a bunny a second chance at happiness, but also providing your existing rabbit with a much-needed friend.
However, before diving into bunny matchmaking, our nurses at Avenues Vets say it’s wise to consider the possibility of a bunny baby boom if you’re not 100% certain they’re of the same sex. That’s where neutering comes in. Neutering your rabbits not only prevents unplanned litters but also offers significant health and behavioural benefits – these include reducing the risk of uterine cancer and infections in females, and preventing testicular cancer and reducing aggressive behaviour in males. Ultimately, rabbit neutering promotes a longer, healthier life and enhances the overall wellbeing of rabbits. Talk to our team about rabbit neutering.
When pairing rabbits, The Avenues Vets’ nurses advise that you should consider these key factors:
- Same-Sex Pairs: Neutering both rabbits can help prevent territorial disputes and aggression, making same-sex pairings a smooth choice.
- Opposite-Sex Pairs: With careful supervision, opposite-sex pairs can thrive, especially if one or both rabbits are neutered to prevent unwanted litters.
- Age Compatibility: Pairing rabbits of similar ages can reduce dominance issues, and introducing a younger rabbit to an older one can invigorate their bond.
- Personality Match: Matching rabbits with compatible personalities is important. For a harmonious pairing, observe their behaviour during introductions to gauge compatibility.
If you’re unsure about the best approach to introducing soon-to-be pals, our experienced nursing team are here to help. Simply reach out to us for personalised guidance – get in touch.
Contact us for advice on introducing rabbits
Will they be Bunny BFFs?
It’s worth noting that not all rabbits will hit it off right away, and some may prefer to be solitary. As with any new relationship, patience and understanding are key. By taking the time to find the right companion and following proper introduction guidelines, you can help ensure a harmonious bond between your rabbits for years to come!
So, if you’re ready to expand your rabbit’s social circle and provide them with a lifelong friend, why not consider adopting a companion from a local shelter in Lanarkshire and getting all the advice you need from our rabbit-loving nursing team? Your rabbits will thank you for it with countless moments of joy.
When you’ve found your newest family member, be sure to register them with us so we can help you keep them in tip top health.
Choosing a name for your new companion is an exciting milestone in pet ownership, but with so many options to choose from, where do you start? Fear not, fellow pet lovers! Our nursing team at Avenues Vets have pulled together some fun ideas to help you find the perfect name to get your pet wagging, purring, or hopping with approval!
Call 0141 643 0404 and tell us all about your new pet and their snazzy name, and we’ll get them registered right away. You can also register via our website:
Five Fun Ways to Choose Your Pet’s Name
Have fun with our vet nurses’ ideas below, and let us know if your new pet is a “Rachel” or a “Phoebe”, or if “Sir Wriggle Bottom” gets the vote!
- Let Their Personality Shine: Our nurses recommend taking a moment to observe your pet’s unique quirks & characteristics. If your cheeky kitten has a mischievous streak, maybe “Cheeky Chops” suits them to a tee. If your dapper dog is always ready for an adventure, “Captain Pawsome” could be the paw-fect name!
- Get Inspired by Their Appearance: Does your long-haired cat’s luxurious coat resemble a lion’s mane? If so, “Simba” might be just the name to match their regal presence. Is your bouncy bunny blessed with floppy ears that could rival Dumbo’s? How about “Nelly”?
- Think Outside the Box: Don’t be afraid to get creative and think beyond the usual pet naming conventions. Consider naming your pet after your favourite book character, a beloved movie star, or even your favourite food! Just imagine calling for “Spaghetti” at the dog park or snuggling up with “Princess Paws – Breaker of Biscuits” on the sofa. Our Glasgow veterinary nurses do love it when they see a “Piglet” (the dog) or a “Badger” (the hamster) too!
- Keep It Simple: While a unique and creative name can be fun, a name with easy pronunciation can sometimes work best. Shorter names with distinct sounds may be easier for pets to recognise and respond to, such as “Bella” and “Teddy”. Consistency of use and association with positive experiences will help your pet to learn their name.
- Trust Your Instincts: When it comes down to it, the most important thing is choosing a name that feels right for you and your pet. Trust your instincts and go with the name that makes your heart sing and your pet’s face light up. If that means calling your vocal cat “Dolly Parton” or your miniature dachshund “Sausage Roll”, so be it!
We hope you love these ideas from our Glasgow nursing team as much as we do. Unleash your creativity and let the naming adventure begin!
We can’t wait to meet your new best friend! Register their new name via our website, or give us a call on 0141 643 0404.
Welcoming a new pet into your home is an exciting and rewarding experience. Whether you’re considering a dog, cat, or a smaller pet, finding the perfect companion requires careful consideration and observation. In this guide from Avenues Vets, we’ll explore the positive traits to look for in a new pet to ensure a happy and harmonious relationship for years to come.
Our veterinary team in Glasgow can’t wait to meet your new bundle of joy! Register them with us and book their first appointment for unrivalled pet care from day one.
What to consider when choosing a new pet
Compatibility with your lifestyle & costs
When choosing a new pet, our Glasgow vets and nurses stress the importance of compatibility with your lifestyle. Factors such as species, size, energy levels, grooming needs, and nutrition should align with your routine for a seamless fit. Remember, pets for children often become parental responsibilities. Consider all costs, including healthcare, housing, and insurance. Plus, how would a new pet fit in with any current pets? Our team are here to discuss the care needs of different pet species before you commit – reach out.
Where to get a new pet from
From dogs, cats, rabbits, small furies and even exotic pets, there’s an abundance of loveable pets just waiting to be adopted in Glasgow and beyond. Professional rescue centres typically conduct home checks to ensure ideal pet-owner matches. Alternatively, opt for reputable breeders showcasing both mother & offspring in a caring environment and enquire about medical history and upbringing practices. Be cautious of breeders unwilling to provide necessary information – a red flag. Buying a small furry or an exotic pet from a pet shop? Check the shop’s reputation online and look for cleanliness and good practices in-store before you buy from them.
What to lookout for in a new pet
- Confidence & Sociability: A confident and sociable pet adapts well, interacts positively, and enjoys a fulfilling life. Look for curiosity, friendliness, and ease of interaction when choosing. Temperament and behaviour issues are crucial considerations.
- Good Health & Vitality: Our vets in Glasgow recommend that you assess potential pets for health & vitality. Look for clear eyes, a shiny coat, and a healthy weight. Check for signs of alertness, energy, and enthusiasm. Ask about medical history and vaccinations too.
- Healthy Parents & Genetics: Consider the health and genetics of the pet’s parents, as they significantly influence the pet’s future wellbeing. Responsible breeders provide information about lineage and health screenings, ensuring a strong foundation for the pet’s health.
- Responsiveness to Training & Handling: Observe how they respond to training and handling during interactions. Look for signs of attentiveness and eagerness to learn. A pet who responds positively to training and handling is easier to bond with, teach new skills, and integrate into your life.
Finding the perfect pet requires a thoughtful assessment of various factors, so, take your time, do your research, and trust your instincts. And, we’re here to help if you’d like more advice – just get in touch!
Register and book your pet’s first appointment with us right away.
