Weekday: 8:30am to 6:00pm | Saturday: Closed Sunday: Closed
Weekday: 8:30am to 6:00pm (open until 8pm Tuesday & Thursday) | Saturday: 9am to 2pm | Sunday: 9am to 12pm
As another year draws to a close, we are all preparing for the Christmas holidays. It is the perfect time to summarise all the key information which will be helpful for our pet owners.
Both our practices, Yeovil and Sherborne, will be open as follows:
Christmas Eve | Closing at midday
Christmas Day | Closed
Boxing Day | Closed
27th-30th | Normal opening hours resume
New Year’s Eve | Closing at midday
New Year’s Day | Closed
Normal opening hours resume on 2nd January
For emergency treatment outside of working hours, please call Medivet 24 Hour Dorchester on 01305 262913. If you are a member of our Pet Health Plan, be sure to utilise your complimentary VidiVet access to seek professional veterinary advice if you have any questions or concerns whilst we are closed.
Over the festive season, without a side helping of ‘’bah humbug’, there are several common toxins and dangers to be aware of.
Chocolate, onion, garlic, macadamia nuts, raisins, grapes, sultanas, blue cheese – to name only a few! Toxic foods are everywhere during Christmas. Whilst we indulge, it is worth being mindful of what may be lying around for your pet to taste. If you are concerned your pet has eaten something they shouldn’t, contact your vet immediately for advice. Some pets have a more severe reaction to the toxic effects than others so it is best not to take the chance. Similarly, there are often unknown hazards lying under Christmas trees; alcohol, silica packets, and batteries are common perpetrators too. As well as toxins, pets commonly ingest things which can lead to blockages or internal damage – ribbons, tinsel and meat bones are unfortunately high up on that list!
2. Toxic plants: It’s helpful to be aware of which plants could cause our pets harm as if any part is ingested (bulbs, berries, leaves or stems), they could make our pets very unwell. They sprout in nature and are also used to decorate our homes. It can be difficult as a pet owner to monitor what our pets may have access to outside, but inside is within our control.
… are the most common culprits.
Whilst we regularly discuss this, it is still widely believed that parasites (such as fleas), die off during the winter months. This is false! Often, this is when pet owners let their guard down and infestations occur – not just on their pet but in their home, too.
Tailored parasite protection (covering fleas and worms) to your pet’s lifestyle is essential. This will ensure that as well as protecting them, your family and home are protected too. Remember, flea eggs, in particular, can lie dormant for a long time in carpets or beneath floorboards before being activated by central heating. The same parasite affecting your pet today may be different to tomorrow, as flea eggs can be laid within 24 hours. Without effective routine treatment, the risk of another generation invading is always on the horizon! If in doubt or if treatment is required, get in touch with our team who will be happy to help.
Whilst a beautiful white Christmas is unlikely, cold weather will be affecting us for a little while yet. Very cold paws (those walking on ice or snow) can feel numb to some pain, covering hazards such as shards of glass (commonly after New Year) or thorns from countryside walks. Paws are also at risk of abrasive salt and grit. Not only can it irritate their pads, but if ingested, it’s toxic. A paw rinse on your return home will help to wash away any salt and debris and is the perfect opportunity to check for wounds.
Finally, if you are looking for a last-minute Christmas gift, we have just the thing! Our health plan includes:
Plus, this is the final month that you can enjoy our lower price before our annual increase in January, and the best part is your price is fixed for 12 months! You can sign up conveniently online here. Our plans are available for both cats and dogs. It will be particularly useful this side of Christmas as your complimentary access to VidiVet will mean that you have access to a qualified UK-based vet when we are closed, ensuring any questions or concerns can be answered, and putting your mind to rest.
Finally, all that is left is for us to wish you a wonderful festive season with your pets and good health for the new year. We very much look forward to seeing you all soon. Thank you for trusting us with your beloved furry family members and supporting us as our practice has grown in size this year.
