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01653 618303

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Testimonials

Testimonials

Sweet Itch is one of the most common skin diseases seen in the horse.

About 2.8% of horses in the U.K. are affected to some degree. Most horses first start showing signs when they are between 1 and 4 years of age and the condition generally worsens with each summer. All too often ponies purchased during the winter months prove to have Sweet Itch the following summer!

Which breeds are prone to sweet itch?

Certain breeds are particularly prone to the disease; Icelandic horses, Friesians, Shetland ponies, Shires, Hackneys and Welsh ponies have all been suggested as susceptible breeds.

What causes sweet itch?

Sweet Itch is caused by hypersensitivity to the bite of the tiny Culicoides midge. There are approximately 20 species of Culicoides present in the UK. The fly is active from March to October but peaks in numbers in May to September. Culicoides are very small and can pass through conventional mosquito netting. They are most active during dawn and dusk. The midges breed in aquatic habitats; any standing water, decaying vegetation and even manure is sufficient.

What are the signs and symptoms of sweet itch?

The worst affected sites are usually the tail head, under the mane and underneath the horses’ abdomen. The mane is one of the sites where the flies feed.

Affected animals are very itchy, may rub intensely, and become restless. Prolonged rubbing results in crusting, scaling, skin thickening, hair loss and damage to the skin. Mane and tail hairs may be broken.

Treatment and management

A thorough clinical examination will be needed to rule out other possible causes of itching e.g. Oxyuris/pinworm, lice and food allergies.  Good insect control is ESSENTIAL and should be the main focus of management:
– Stable the horse from 4.00pm until 8.00 am.
– Use specially developed rugs and hoods to provide protection.
– Apply sponge on fly repellents; often twice daily application may be required.
– Use Deosect; a longer lasting, pour-on repellent.
– Use a very fine fly screen over the stable door.
– Increase airflow by using a fan in the stable.
– Eliminate as many moist breeding grounds as possible; don’t allow puddles of standing water.
– Consider moving the horse away from wooded and wet areas.

Medication is available that can help decrease the severity but as yet there is no cure for Sweet Itch. There is an enormous variety of supplements on the market that promise to alleviate signs but none have been proven effective in a reasonable amount of horses.

* * Steroid medication: various types of this class of drugs are available from short to long acting with more or less risk of side effects (laminitis). This can be used in more extreme cases that are uncontrollable with other medication and management changes.

* There is a vaccination which was developed as a ringworm vaccine which seems to have as an added benefit a reduction of Sweet Itch signs, this was noted by Dutch vets using this vaccine. A course of 2 injections with 2 weeks in between should be administered before the start of the midge season (February-March). There is a UK study where after the vaccine 1/3 horses showed no more signs, 1/3 reduced signs and 1/3 showed no improvement.

Abit about the vaccine

We started using this vaccine 4 years ago and have had the expected results which have been a huge help for the afflicted ponies, Its time to vaccinate in February prior to this seasons midge. We import the vaccine so please contact the surgery to order your doses now so that you don’t miss out. Your horse would need to be seen by one of our vets for us to be able to administer the sweet itch vaccine, which can either be at your house or yard (visit charges will apply) or at the practice.

We can run a sweet itch vaccine clinic at the practice for those who can travel to us which will save you the visit fees too. We want your pony to have the best chance of a comfortable Summer.

As we have to import the vaccine we need to know towards the end of January each year if you wish us to order this in for you ready for the Sweet Itch season starting in March, so please do get in touch as soon as possible.  We can only offer this to clients who are registered with us.

Tel: 01653 618303
Email: prescriptions@stationhousevets.co.uk

Senior pet clinics – importance of nail clipping

It is important for dogs and cats to monitor and maintain the length of their nails throughout their life, but especially as they move through their senior years; after all consistent nail clipping isn’t just cosmetic!
 
Reduced activity levels
As our pets age, their activity levels reduce. With less active dogs they become more prone to nails getting too long. Similarly, cats who struggle to use a scratch pole or go outside less or rarely go out are more likely to develop problems with the length of their nails
 
Why are long nails in our pets a problem?
Just like humans long nails in pets can cause significant pain and discomfort. If your pets nails are constantly being pushed against the floor or dragged along the nail is being pushed back into the nail bed, and this will be very painful for them. If this continues for an extended period of time the pets gait will alter and their joints may realign potentially causing osteoarthritis. Long nails may cause your pet to redistribute their weight to help them feel more comfortable; this can make them more susceptible to injury.
 
Long nails are also more likely to get caught on things and break or tear; this causes lots of pain and may require a procedure to correct it which can put older pets at more risk.
 
Why should I take my pets to the vets for nail clips?
Some owners may like to trim their own dogs nails, however we recommend coming in to see a vet or nurse. This is because there is a long blood vessel and nerve bundle within the nail called the ‘quick’ which can easily be caught during nail clipping. This causes significant pain and bleeding if it is caught, and is the main reason why we recommend bringing your pet to the practice.
 
Nail clipping at the vets
Normally nail clips are conducted by one of the nurses as a 15 minute appointment during which time the nurse will also discuss any other concerns you have.
The price for a nail clip with our nurses is £13.50. However, for clients on our Wellness Plan nail clipping is included and is therefore ‘free’ (unless sedation is required).
We recommend regularly checking your dogs; they can be trimmed every 3 months – so on the Wellness Plan that’s an annual saving of £60!

 

Call us on 01653 618303 to book an appointment  with one of our nurses for a nail clip.

Festive opening hours 2023/2024

It’s nearly time for Santa to start loading up his sleigh. The reindeers will be getting their bran mash and building up their strength for this time next week.

Opening hours
Below are our opening hours over the festive season for appointments, medication collections and in practice purchases.

During practice opening hours – 01653 618303

Out of hours – 01209 823717

Dental health in dogs and cats

We all know from experience how painful tooth or gum problems can be. Our pets can’t tell us when they are experiencing dental problems. But as owners we might notice subtle signs that something isn’t right. Some cats and dogs are predisposed to dental problems.
 
Working in partnership with @Hill’s pet nutrition we have some free dental packs available for clients who have concerns or whose pets have had dental problems already:
 
– Cats and dogs of any age who have already had dental treatment
– Older cats and dogs who are more prone to dental disease
– Cats and dogs who have started to show very early signs of potential dental disease, identified by one of our vets
 
We’d like to hear from you if your pets fall into any of the above groups.
 
Your free dental pack includes:
– A free 700g bag of Hill’s vet essentials dental (cat or specific to your size and breed of dog)
– A measuring cup
– A tailored feeding plan for your pet’s breed, age and weight
– Information and advice about dental health
Book a free nurse clinic with our wonderful nursing team – Karo, Nicole or Helena – who will talk you through the benefits of feeding a dental health product, and other ways you can help your pets dental hygiene. And discuss how to introduce a new diet gradually.
 
If your pet continues on the Hill’s vet essentials Dental Health you will get a £10 off your first purchase (available in various sizes). And there’s additional discounts to be had from the Hill’s Loyalty Scheme.
 

The Hill’s range of vet essential products

Hills vet essentials multi-benefit + dental canine

Key points:
· Dental health: clinically proven dental kibble technology that reduces plaque and tartar build up to keep teeth and gums healthy
· Digestion: With an optimal fibre blend, including prebiotics, to promote healthy digestion
· Skin & coat: With omega 6 fatty acids for healthy skin and luxurious coat with omega 6s and vitamin E
· Weight management: Helps maintain optimal bodyweight with clinically proven levels of L-carnitine and high levels of fibre
· Immunity: high levels of antioxidants to support natural defences with antioxidants from vitamins C & E
· Chicken flavour
· 100% satisfaction guarantee

When to use:

· Post dental treatment (once healed)
· Puppies coming off growth once 1 year old that are not neutered or ideal weight
· Older dogs that have dental disease

Canine products

Small & mini breed canine
For dogs weighing less than 10kg
2kg, 7kg bags
Smaller kibble than medium & large – same formula

Medium & large breed canine
For dogs weighing more than 10kg
Bag sizes: 2kg, 10kg, 13kg
Larger kibble than small & mini – same formula

Hills vet essentials multi-benefit + dental feline

Key points:
· Dental Health: clinically proven dental kibble technology that reduces plaque and tartar build up to keep teeth and gums healthy
· Digestion: With an optimal fibre blend, including prebiotics, to promote healthy digestion
· Urinary Health: Helps support a healthy urinary system
· Skin & Coat: with omega 6 fatty acids for healthy skin and luxurious fur
· Weight: Helps maintain optimal body weight with clinically proven levels of L-carnitine plus fibre technology

When to use:

· Post dental treatment (once healed)
· Kittens coming off growth once 1 year old that are not neutered or ideal weight
· Older cats that have dental disease

Feline product

One size 1.5kg, 3kg, 6.5kg

 

Call us on 01653 618303 to book an appointment  with one of our nurses for a dental clinic and to get your free dental nutrition pack.

Agria 5 weeks free insurance for dogs and cats 8 weeks to 18 months

We have teamed up with Agria Insurance and for clients who are interested, we will be able to link you up with them to get 5 weeks free insurance for your dog or cat.

Who is eligible for the 5 weeks free insurance
  • Dogs between 8 weeks and 18 months old
  • Cats between 8 weeks and 18 months old
  • All pets must be vaccinated
  • All pets must have had a vet health check on the day they register for the 5 weeks free insurance
  • Breeders can have access to the cover while the pets are still with them
  • New owners of puppies/kittens via a breeder who has already had the 5 week insurance under the breeder scheme
About the 5 week free insurance cover
  • Free insurance cover for 5 weeks
  • Lifetime policy
  • Up to £4k towards veterinary treatment for illness and injury
  • Up to £2.5k refund of purchase price if the pet dies from illness or injury
  • Up to £1,000 towards advertising and reward if the pet is lost or stolen
  • Cover set up by the end of the day of the vet visit
  • Can be taken by clients even if they already have insurance
How do I get the 5 week free insurance cover?

It is up to you as the owner to enquire about and make sure this insurance cover suits your needs; there is no obligation for Station House Vets to give this insurance out. When visiting the practice for a vet consult and health check ask to be set up on the Agria 5 week free insurance; you’ll need to complete a form indicating your interest in the 5 weeks free insurance and we will introduce you to Agria.  Your insurance cover is not immediate – but will commence by 6pm that day.

What happens at the end of the 5 weeks?

Before the free insurance cover ends, Agria will be in touch with you to see if you would like to continue a full annual policy.

Want to discuss further with your vet?

Call us on 01653 618303 to book an appointment  with one of our vets to book in for your health check and any other needs so you can discuss this further.

World arthritis day – could your pet have arthritis?

It is estimated that around 1 in 5 dogs have arthritis and 90% of cats over 12 years old have arthritis.

Arthritis is a condition that leads to pain and progressive degeneration of the joint.  It affects many aspects of a dog or cats life including mobility, painful joints and a poor quality of life.  Many cases go undiagnosed as owners assume slowing down is a natural symptom of getting older.

Arthritis symptoms in dogs

Signs can often be subtle and dogs will rarely yelp, cry or vocalise pain.  As an owner it is important to look out for signs such as

  • Limping / stiffness
  • Interrupted sleeping pattern
  • Walking slower on walks
  • Finding it harder to get up
  • Difficulty jumping
  • Interacting less
  • Aggression

While many cases of arthritis occur in older, overweight and larger breed dogs, arthritis can affect dogs of all sizes, ages and breeds.

Arthritis symptoms in cats

Cats are very good at hiding pain and so signs can be even more subtle than with dogs but signs are very similar.

  • Limping / stiffness
  • Difficulty going up and down stairs
  • Finding it harder to get up
  • Hesitant to jump or stops jumping
  • Interacting less
  • Difficulty chasing objects / playing with toys
What should I do if I suspect arthritis in my cat or dog?

If you start to notice changes in your cat or dog and suspect arthritis, book a consult with one of our vets so we can assess and help by providing suitable pain relief.

What are the goals for treating arthritis?
  • Alleviating pain
  • Maintaining mobility
  • Slowing the progression of the disease

Where can I find out more information?

Click on the images to download the fliers:

Want to discuss further with your vet?

Call us on 01653 618303 to book an appointment  with one of our vets to discuss arthritis in your pets.

Welcome to our new vets – Kayleigh and Morag

We are excited to let you know that we have expanded our team and would like to say a big warm welcome to our new vets – Kayleigh and Morag.
Meet Kayleigh
I am an equine vet and have been for nearly 15 years which I can’t quite believe- it has gone fast!.
I have a particular interest in poor performance, and I have trained in equine acupuncture which I believe can make a positive difference to a variety of horses and ponies.
Having completed my certificate in equine stud medicine I enjoy taking care of horses from foals through to their geriatric years, and everything in between.
Outside of work I can mostly be found running around the beautiful Yorkshire countryside after my daughters on their ponies, and stealing one of them occasionally to ride myself!
I have known the team at Station House for many years and am delighted to be joining the team officially!
Meet Morag
I graduated from the University of Glasgow this summer and joined the team at Station House Vets in September.
I have a keen interest in both small animal and equine practice.
Outside of work I enjoy riding my horse and compete in eventing over the summer.
I am looking forward to getting to know the area and meeting some of your lovely pet

 

To meet the whole team visit our page.

This week is equine flu awareness week.

What is equine flu? 
Equine flu is a highly contagious viral respiratory disease which can spread rapidly among unvaccinated horses.
What are the symptoms of equine flu?
– a high temperature (over 38. 5 degrees C)
– a dry, harsh cough
– a clear, watery nasal discharge
– loss of appetite
– lethargy
How is equine flu spread?
It can be spread through direct contact with another horse, by air and also indirectly via people, equipment, tack etc.
Help protect and prevent is better than cure!
Vaccination is the best thing you can do for your horse and for the equine population in general.
When should I vaccinate?

1st vaccination should be given around 5-6 months old
2nd vaccination to be given around 4-6 weeks later
3rd vaccination to be given 5-6 months later
Booster vaccinations must be given within 365 days of the 1st vaccination to avoid a re-start

What if my horse competes?
If your horse competes you will need to check with the relevant authority as some bodies (FEI, BD, BE, BS) require more regular 6 monthly boosters.

Visit @KeepingHorsesHealthy to find out more.

What do we vaccinate horses for?

The two main diseases we vaccinate for are tetanus and influenza.

Tetanus is caused by bacteria that is found in soil and droppings (not just rusty nails!). Even a small scratch risks infection with the bacteria. We strongly recommend that every horse is vaccinated for tetanus, as contracting the disease is usually fatal. Prevention against tetanus requires vaccination which can be done in a combined vaccine or on its own.

Equine influenza (EI) is a strain of the flu virus that is endemic in the equine population. It is highly contagious but can only spread between equines (ie. Horse to horse or horse to donkey). The virus spreads from contact between individuals, on fomites such as clothing, rugs and tack and it can become airborne (via water droplets) and spread surprising distances. Symptoms of EI include cough, nasal discharge, pyrexia (high temperature) and lethargy. Most horses recover from EI but recovery can take a long time. Very young and very old horses are more likely to suffer from life threatening infection of EI or secondary bacterial infections. The EI vaccination should protect against symptoms in most cases when it does not give full protection it is designed to be effective in reducing the symptoms and spread of the virus. EI vaccination is given either in a combined vaccine with tetanus or alone when tetanus booster isn’t required.

Other things we vaccinate for commonly are strangles (streptococcus equi equi) and equine herpes virus (EHV). The new strangles vaccination is very exciting as, unlike the older vaccine, can be given into the muscle. It works like the EI vaccine that it should give protection against strangles, however should the individual contract the disease (due to a high infective dose) it should vastly reduce the symptoms and spread. This vaccine also does not cause a false positive result on blood sampling (unlike the old vaccine). EHV vaccination is more commonly done in young/competition horses and pregnant mares.

#EFAW2023 #equinefluawarenessweek 

Cat friendly clinic

Did you know we are an ISFM International Cat Friendly Clinic Silver award holder?

What is a cat friendly silver award?

This is an award from the International Society for Feline Medicine and has proven we meet certain criteria to call ourselves a Cat Friendly Clinic.  We understand the particular stress cats are under when visiting a vet practice and take steps to minimise this. Stress impacts on welfare and also on the health of the cat – but above all we hate to see a stressed or fearful cat.

What does cat friendly clinic mean?

  • We are trained in how to handle cats gently and with care (no scruffing here!) We separate out cats and dogs with separate areas of the waiting room and have separate hospital wards.
  • We have equipment especially for cats for diagnosis and treatment e.g. cat scales, blood pressure cuffs, dental and laboratory equipment
  • Staff, especially the Cat Advocates (vet Lucy Nowell and nurse Helena Dewhurst) undertake extra training and advocate cat friendly techniques and learning in practice
  • We use pheromone diffusers and sprays in the consult rooms and cattery to help calm and reassure
  • We meet and exceed minimum standards for equipment, safe anaesthetic use and monitoring, hygiene, infection control, 24hour care, laboratory and other diagnostic equipment (not an exclusive list)
  • We employ ways of helping your cat settle when staying with us such as different foods, litter, bedding, hideaways – and above all love and TLC whether that be a respectful hands-off approach if the cat is happier with that, or full on cuddles!
  • Your cat is our priority and you can be assured that s/he is given the best care while with us, whether that is a short check-up appointment or a longer period of hospitalisation.

If you have any questions, please contact Helena our  in the first instance on nurse@stationhousevets.co.uk or 01653 618303. Helena has long been a cat lover, has fostered and adopted many cats over the years and after qualifying as an RVN in 2017 have undertaken further qualifications with the ISFM.