Conditioning and Socialising Your Pet: Setting Them Up for a Lifetime of Confidence

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The experiences your pet has early in life — and throughout adulthood — play a major role in how they cope with the world. Gentle conditioning and appropriate socialisation help pets grow into calmer, more confident companions and make everyday care, grooming, travel, and vet visits far less stressful.

While early exposure is ideal, it’s important to remember: it’s never too late to start. Older pets can also learn to feel more comfortable and confident — it may simply take more patience and time.

What Is Conditioning — and Why Does It Matter?

Conditioning is the process of gradually and positively exposing your pet to experiences they’ll encounter throughout their life. When pets learn that handling, travel, and routine care are safe and predictable, they’re far less likely to develop fear, anxiety, or defensive behaviour.

This is especially important for unavoidable experiences such as veterinary examinations, grooming, nail trims, and car travel.

Getting Your Pet Comfortable with Handling

From a young age, puppies and kittens should become accustomed to gentle, calm handling. 

This includes:

  • Touching and holding feet and toes 
  • Gently examining ears 
  • Lifting lips and looking inside the mouth 
  • Light restraint or short cuddles 

Start with very short sessions and always pair handling with treats, praise, or play. This helps your pet associate touch with positive experiences and makes vet examinations easier and less intimidating as they grow.

Conditioning at Home: Start Small and Build Slowly

Routine care tasks can be overwhelming if introduced too quickly. Gradual exposure is key.

Dental Care

Dental care is best introduced gradually so it doesn’t become a stressful experience.

  • Begin by gently touching around the mouth and muzzle 
  • Progress to lifting the lips for a few seconds at a time 
  • Once your pet is comfortable, introduce a finger brush or toothbrush 

To make the experience more pleasant, you can use pet-safe toothpaste or dental gels, which are specially flavoured to be appealing to dogs and cats. Some pets also tolerate a small amount of coconut oil, which can help with acceptance due to its taste and texture.

For pets that won’t tolerate brushing initially, dental wipes are another useful option and can be a great stepping stone toward full brushing.

Always keep sessions short, calm, and positive, and reward your pet afterwards to build a positive association.

 

Ear Cleaning

  • Start with simple ear handling 
  • Allow your pet to sniff the cleaning solution  
  • Clean small amounts initially and build up gradually 

Nail Trimming

Nail trimming should always be introduced using positive reinforcement. This means rewarding your pet for calm, relaxed behaviour so they learn to associate nail care with something pleasant, rather than something to fear.

  • Handle your pet’s paws regularly so they become comfortable with their feet being touched 
  • Introduce nail clippers or grinders by letting your pet see and sniff them, without using them at first 
  • When trimming, start with one nail at a time and immediately reward your pet with praise, treats, or gentle affection 

Keeping sessions short and ending on a positive note helps build trust and confidence. Over time, positive reinforcement teaches your pet that nail trimming is safe, predictable, and even rewarding.

 

Grooming & Bathing

  • Brush for short sessions before your pet becomes restless 
  • Introduce water slowly and calmly 
  • Keep early baths quick and stress-free 

For dogs, using a LickiMat or a thin layer of dog-safe peanut butter spread on the wall can help keep them calm and occupied during bathing or grooming

 

If your pet becomes anxious, stop and try again another day — forcing the process can create lasting fear

Socialising Beyond the Home

Socialisation is about more than meeting other pets — it’s about helping your pet feel comfortable in different environments and situations.

Car Travel & Vet Visits

Many pets associate car rides with stress because they only travel when something unpleasant is about to happen. To help:

  • Take short, positive car trips that don’t always end at the vet 
  • Reward calm behaviour in the car 
  • For cats, leave the carrier out at home so it becomes a familiar, safe space 
  • Occasionally place treats or bedding inside the carrier without closing the door 

Using a Leash & Basic Obedience

Learning to walk comfortably on a leash builds confidence and control:

  • Start indoors or in quiet areas 
  • Use positive reinforcement for calm walking 
  • Avoid pulling or punishment 
  • Short, consistent sessions work best 

Basic obedience training not only improves behaviour but strengthens the bond between you and your pet.

Socialising With Other Dogs, People & Environments

Expose your pet to:

  • Different people (adults, children, people wearing hats or uniforms) 
  • New surfaces and environments 
  • Everyday sounds like traffic, vacuum cleaners, and household noises 

This helps reduce fear-based behaviour and builds emotional resilience.

A Very Important Safety Note About Vaccinations

While socialisation is essential, it must be done safely.

We recommend waiting at least two weeks after your puppy’s third vaccination before:

  • Visiting dog parks 
  • Walking in high-traffic pet areas 
  • Allowing contact with unfamiliar dogs 

Before this point, puppies are vulnerable to serious diseases such as Parvovirus and Distemper. Early socialisation should be limited to healthy, fully vaccinated dogs you know well and controlled environments.

It’s Never Too Late — Conditioning Older Pets

While puppies and kittens learn quickly, adult and senior pets can absolutely benefit from conditioning and socialisation too.

Tips for Older Pets:

  • Move at your pet’s pace 
  • Keep sessions short and positive 
  • Use high-value treats or favourite toys 
  • Be consistent and patient 
  • Celebrate small wins 

Older pets may take longer to adjust, but gradual, positive exposure can significantly improve their comfort and quality of life.

How We Can Help at Bruma Lake Vet

Our team is always happy to help with:

  • Advice for anxious or fearful pets 
  • Making vet visits as calm and positive as possible 

Early effort — or even late effort — makes a lifetime of difference. A well-conditioned, well-socialised pet is easier to care for, more relaxed, and happier overall.

 

If you’re unsure where to start, or if your pet struggles with fear or anxiety, chat to us — we’re here to help.

Interdigital Cysts in Dogs: Causes, Treatment & Long-Term Management

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Rocco’s Story and What Pet Parents Should Know

Interdigital cysts are a common — and often very painful — condition affecting dogs, particularly short-haired, stocky breeds such as Bulldogs, Boxers and Bull Terriers. These lesions appear between the toes and can range from mild swelling to severely inflamed, ulcerated and pus-filled sores.

Recently, Rocco, a handsome Bulldog, came to see us at Bruma Lake Vet with painful lumps between his toes that were making walking uncomfortable. On examination, the lesions were ulcerated and filled with pus — classic signs of interdigital cysts.

Rocco’s case is just one of many presentations we see, and it highlights why early diagnosis and proper management are so important.

What Are Interdigital Cysts?

Despite their name, interdigital “cysts” are not true cysts. They are best described as deep inflammatory lesions that form in the skin between a dog’s toes.

They develop when hair follicles in the webbing between the toes become damaged, blocked or ruptured. This triggers inflammation deep within the skin and often leads to secondary bacterial infection, which causes swelling, pain and discharge.

Over time, these lesions can rupture, ulcerate and recur — making them frustrating for both dogs and their owners if not properly managed.

Why Do Interdigital Cysts Occur?

Interdigital cysts rarely have a single cause. In most cases, several contributing factors are involved.

Common Predisposing Factors

Breed & Paw Conformation
Dogs with broad, splayed feet or poor foot conformation place extra mechanical stress on the skin between their toes. Bulldogs are particularly prone because of the constant pressure and friction in this area.

Coat Type
Short, stiff, bristly hair can easily penetrate the skin between the toes, acting like a foreign body and triggering inflammation.

Allergies
Environmental or food allergies commonly affect the paws. Chronic licking, chewing and inflammation weaken the skin barrier and make infections more likely.

Obesity
Extra body weight increases pressure on the feet, worsening irritation and delaying healing.

Foreign Bodies
Grass seeds, thorns or debris can lodge between the toes and cause local trauma and infection.

Parasites & Infections
Mites, yeast or bacterial infections may contribute to ongoing inflammation.

Hormonal or Immune Conditions
Underlying endocrine disorders or immune-mediated disease can impair skin health and healing.

Clinical Signs to Watch For

Dogs with interdigital cysts may show:

  • Swelling or firm lumps between the toes

  • Redness, ulceration or open sores

  • Pus or bloody discharge

  • Limping or reluctance to walk

  • Excessive licking or chewing at the paws

  • Pain when paws are touched

Because these lesions are painful, dogs may become irritable or less active.

How Are Interdigital Cysts Diagnosed?

Diagnosis is usually based on:

  • Clinical examination of the paws

  • Assessment of breed, history and recurrence

  • Identifying signs of infection or inflammation

In recurrent or severe cases, additional diagnostics may be recommended, such as:

  • Skin cytology or cultures to identify bacteria or yeast

  • Allergy investigations

  • Biopsies (in rare or non-responsive cases)

  • Blood tests to rule out underlying conditions

Treatment: How We Help Dogs Like Rocco

Treatment depends on severity, infection and whether the condition is acute or chronic.

Medical Management

In Rocco’s case, treatment included:

  • Antibiotics to address secondary bacterial infection

  • Anti-inflammatory medication to reduce pain and swelling

  • Topical cortisone cream to calm inflammation

  • Antiseptic paw washes to keep the area clean and reduce bacterial load

This approach is effective for many dogs when started early.

Supportive Care

  • Keeping paws clean and dry

  • Preventing licking (using cones or boots if needed)

  • Weight management where applicable

Long-Term Management & Prevention

Interdigital cysts can recur, especially in predisposed breeds. Long-term management may include:

  • Regular medicated paw baths

  • Ongoing allergy management if allergies are identified

  • Weight control

  • Routine paw inspections after walks

  • Addressing underlying infections promptly

In chronic, severe or non-responsive cases, surgical intervention or referral to a veterinary dermatologist may be considered.

When Should You See a Vet?

If you notice any swelling, sores, discharge or limping related to your dog’s paws, it’s important to seek veterinary care early. Prompt treatment reduces pain, speeds healing and lowers the risk of recurrence.

Final Thoughts

Interdigital cysts are uncomfortable, frustrating and often recurrent — but with proper diagnosis, treatment and long-term management, most dogs can remain comfortable and active.

Rocco is already well on his way to recovery, and with continued care, we’re hopeful his paws will stay healthy going forward.

If your dog is licking their paws excessively, limping, or has sores between their toes, our team at Bruma Lake Vet is here to help.

The Hidden Dangers of Skipping Parasite Prevention in Pets

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Parasite prevention isn’t just about avoiding scratching or nuisance pests — it’s a critical part of protecting your pet’s overall health. Fleas, ticks and internal parasites can cause serious, sometimes life-threatening illness when prevention is missed or inconsistent.

Fleas: More Than Just an Itch

Fleas are extremely common, especially during warmer months. While many pet owners associate fleas with scratching, the risks go far beyond discomfort.

Fleas can cause:

  • Severe itching and skin infections
  • Flea allergy dermatitis, which can lead to hair loss, wounds and chronic skin disease
  • Tapeworm infections when pets ingest fleas while grooming
  • Anaemia, particularly dangerous for puppies, kittens and small pets

A heavy flea infestation can weaken young or elderly pets quickly — and once fleas establish themselves in your home, they can be very difficult to eliminate.

Ticks: Small Parasites, Serious Consequences

Ticks are more than just a local irritation. Certain tick species in South Africa transmit life-threatening diseases.

Tick-related risks include:

  • Painful local reactions and skin infections
  • Tick bite fever (Ehrlichiosis) — which can cause fever, bleeding disorders, weakness and organ damage
  • Babesiosis — a potentially fatal disease affecting red blood cells, leading to severe anaemia

These illnesses often require intensive treatment and hospitalisation. Preventing tick attachment is far safer — and far less costly — than treating tick-borne disease.

Worms: The Invisible Threat

Internal parasites are often overlooked because they’re not always visible, but they pose serious risks to pets and people.

Worm infestations can cause:

  • Weight loss and poor growth
  • Diarrhoea and vomiting
  • Pot-bellied appearance in puppies
  • Anaemia
  • Zoonotic risk — some worms can infect humans, especially children

Worm burdens increase during wet weather, and when new puppies and kittens are introduced into homes. Regular deworming is essential, even for pets that appear healthy.

Why Regular Preventative Treatment Matters

Parasite preventatives such as flea, tick and worm treatments work best when given consistently and correctly. Missing doses allows parasites to return — often unnoticed — until serious illness develops.

Preventative care:

  • Protects your pet’s health long-term
  • Reduces the risk of expensive emergency treatment
  • Helps keep your home and family safe
  • Supports healthier skin, coat and immune function

How Different Brands Work

Flea & tick options

Frontline (Fipronil)

  • Kills fleas and ticks on contact.
  • Applied topically once a month.
  • Fast-acting, safe for cats and dogs, widely available.
  • Effectiveness decreases with frequent bathing.

Bravecto (Fluralaner)

  • Chewable (dogs only) or topical form.
  • Lasts up to 12 weeks for fleas and ticks.
  • More expensive than monthly treatments

Simparica (Sarolaner)

  • Chewable tablet for dogs only.
  • Protects against fleas and ticks for one month (Simparica Trio offers comprehensive protection against fleas, ticks, heartworms, roundworms, and hookworms)

NexGard (Afoxolaner)

  • Chewable tablet for dogs only.
  • Protects against fleas and ticks for one month

Flea, tick & dewormer combination

NexGard Spectra (Afoxolaner + milbemycin oxime)

  • Chewable tablet for dogs only.
  • Protects against fleas and ticks as well as worms and heartworm for one month
  • More expensive option

NexGard Combo for cats (Esafoxolaner + eprinomectin + praziquantel)

  • Topical spot-on treatment for cats
  • Provides broad-spectrum protection against both external and internal parasites in one monthly treatment.

Revolution Plus (Selamectin + sarolaner)

  • Topical monthly treatment for cats and dogs.
  • Protects against fleas, some ticks, heartworm, and certain intestinal parasites.

Advocate (Imidacloprid + moxidectin)

  • Topical monthly treatment for cats and dogs.
  • Provides comprehensive protection against fleas, heartworm, intestinal worms, ear mites, lice, and mange mites
  • Lack of protection against ticks and tapeworms

No One-Size-Fits-All Approach

When it comes to parasite prevention, there’s no one-size-fits-all approach — your pet’s lifestyle plays a huge role. 

Dogs that spend a lot of time outdoors, visit dog parks, or interact with other animals are at higher risk of picking up fleas, ticks, and worms. 

Cats that roam freely are more likely to hunt prey and encounter parasites, while indoor-only pets may have a lower risk but aren’t completely immune. 

Household factors also matter: if you have young children, other pets, or live in a region with high tick or flea prevalence, extra vigilance is important. 

Chewables are oral, long-lasting, no-mess, great for swimmers/sensitive skin, while spot-ons are topical liquids applied to the skin, offering broad-spectrum protection, but can wash off or cause skin irritation. 

The best choice depends on your pet’s habits (swimming, skin sensitivity) and your lifestyle, so consult your vet for tailored advice.

We’re Here to Help

Every pet’s needs are different. Our team can help you choose the right parasite prevention plan for your dog or cat based on their age, lifestyle and risk factors.

If you’re unsure whether your pet is fully protected — or if you’ve missed treatments — chat to us. Prevention is always better than cure.

Coco’s Pancreatitis Journey — What Every Dog Owner Should Know

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Meet Coco, a brave little patient who recently spent an extended period in our hospital recovering from pancreatitis. We’re thrilled to share that he has improved enough to go home — but his journey is an important reminder of how serious this condition can be, how varied the causes are, and why early veterinary care is essential.

What Is Pancreatitis?

Pancreatitis is a condition where the pancreas becomes inflamed and begins releasing digestive enzymes prematurely. Instead of activating in the intestines (where they should), these enzymes activate inside the pancreas, leading to:

  • Self-digestion of pancreatic tissue
  • Inflammation of surrounding organs
  • Severe abdominal pain
  • Systemic illness that can quickly become life-threatening

Pancreatitis can affect dogs of any breed, age, or size, and it may occur once (acute pancreatitis) or recur over time (chronic pancreatitis).

Coco’s Case: A Sudden and Severe Onset

Coco arrived at Bruma Lake Vet showing classic symptoms:

  • Persistent vomiting shortly after eating
  • Intense abdominal pain
  • Loss of appetite
  • Lethargy and dehydration

Although pancreatitis is often triggered by eating a high-fat meal, that wasn’t the case for Coco. He actually eats a prescription gastrointestinal diet and avoids fatty foods entirely — a good reminder that not all pancreatitis cases have a dietary cause.

Initial examinations raised suspicion, and a Canine Specific Pancreatic Lipase (cPL) test confirmed it, returning extremely high levels. Blood tests also revealed dehydration, electrolyte imbalances and strain on his kidneys.

Thanks to early intervention, Coco responded well to treatment, and he is now home on a special diet of small, frequent meals, pain medication, and regular follow-ups.

Causes of Pancreatitis in Dogs

While some cases appear seemingly out of the blue, several factors can increase the risk. These include:

1. Dietary Causes

  • Sudden ingestion of fatty or oily foods (e.g., table scraps, leftovers, braai fat)
  • Spicy or highly processed human foods

2. Metabolic or Hormonal Diseases

  • Hypothyroidism
  • Cushing’s disease (hyperadrenocorticism)
  • Diabetes mellitus

These conditions can change fat metabolism and trigger inflammation.

3. Obesity

  • Overweight dogs have a significantly higher risk.

4. Certain Medications

Some drugs can predispose dogs to pancreatic irritation, including:

  • Corticosteroids
  • Certain antibiotics
  • Some anti-seizure medications

5. Genetic or Breed Predisposition

Some breeds are more prone, including:

  • Miniature Schnauzers
  • Yorkshire Terriers
  • Cocker Spaniels
  • Dachshunds

6. Trauma or Shock

Abdominal injury or severe systemic shock can trigger inflammation of the pancreas.

7. Idiopathic Causes

In many cases — like Coco’s — no obvious trigger is found. A genetic predisposition is suspected in these dogs.

Signs and Symptoms to Watch For

Pancreatitis can vary from mild to severe. Common symptoms include:

  • Vomiting (sometimes multiple times per day)
  • Abdominal pain (often severe)
  • Loss of appetite
  • Fatigue or weakness
  • Diarrhoea
  • Restlessness or panting
  • Hunched posture
  • Fever

Severe cases may lead to:

  • Collapse
  • Jaundice
  • Heart arrhythmias
  • Organ failure

Any dog showing these symptoms should be seen by a vet immediately.

pancreatitis diagramme

How Pancreatitis Is Diagnosed

Diagnosis involves a combination of:

1. Clinical Symptoms & Physical Examination

Abdominal pain, vomiting and dehydration raise suspicion early on.

2. Blood Tests

These assess:

  • Electrolytes
  • Kidney and liver function
  • Inflammatory markers
  • Hydration levels

These results guide the treatment plan.

3. cPL (Canine Specific Pancreatic Lipase) Test

This is one of the most accurate blood tests for detecting pancreatic inflammation. A high result strongly supports a diagnosis of pancreatitis.

4. Abdominal Ultrasound

Ultrasound helps:

  • Confirm pancreatic swelling or changes
  • Identify complications
  • Rule out other causes of vomiting or pain

5. X-rays (in some cases)

Useful to exclude intestinal obstruction or other conditions with similar symptoms.

Treatment Options for Pancreatitis

Because pancreatitis can become life-threatening, treatment is often aggressive and may require hospitalisation.

Treatment may include:

1. Intravenous Fluids

To correct dehydration, electrolyte imbalances and support kidney function.

2. Pain Relief

Pancreatitis is very painful — strong pain medication is essential for recovery.

3. Anti-Nausea & Anti-Vomiting Medication

To stop persistent vomiting and allow food to stay down.

4. Dietary Management

  • Low-fat, highly digestible food
  • Small, frequent meals
  • Gradual reintroduction of normal intake

5. Antibiotics

Not always needed, but used if infection is suspected.

6. Monitoring for Complications

Such as:

  • Kidney injury
  • Liver inflammation
  • Diabetes
  • Systemic infections
  • Shock

Coco required IV fluids, pain management, anti-nausea medication, and careful nutritional support — and thankfully responded well.

Prognosis and Long-Term Management

Many dogs recover fully, especially if treated early. Some may develop chronic pancreatitis and require ongoing dietary management.

Long-term care may include:

  • Prescription low-fat diets
  • Weight management
  • Avoiding all table scraps
  • Monitoring blood work
  • Managing underlying conditions (e.g., hypothyroidism)

Coco will continue to be monitored through follow-up blood tests to ensure his recovery remains on track.

How to Prevent Pancreatitis

  • Avoid feeding fatty foods or human leftovers
  • Keep pets at a healthy weight
  • Use only vet-approved treats
  • Store rubbish securely
  • Manage hormonal or metabolic diseases early
  • Choose pet foods appropriately (especially for sensitive dogs)

Final Thoughts

Pancreatitis is a serious condition — but with prompt diagnosis, appropriate treatment and careful long-term management, many dogs like Coco can make a strong recovery.

If your dog shows symptoms such as vomiting, abdominal pain or loss of appetite, contact us right away. Early intervention can make all the difference.

💙 Bruma Lake Vet — Caring for your pets with knowledge, compassion and experience.

The Little Lump With a Big Lesson: Understanding Histiocytomas in Dogs

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Some years ago, we treated a memorable case involving Godzilla, an adorable six-month-old Bulldog pup who developed a peculiar skin growth behind his left foreleg. The lump was button-shaped, hairless, and ulcerated — enough to worry any pet parent.

Why We Can’t Diagnose Lumps Just by Looking

When it comes to skin growths, even experienced vets cannot diagnose a lump purely by sight or touch. Many different conditions look similar on the surface.

In Godzilla’s case, I performed a fine-needle aspirate, using a small needle and syringe to collect cells from the mass. After staining the sample and examining it under a microscope, I was able to make a diagnosis. (If this test is inconclusive, we send samples to a laboratory for further analysis.)

The Diagnosis: Histiocytoma

Godzilla’s lump turned out to be a histiocytoma — a benign skin tumour. These do not spread to other areas and usually do not cause serious harm. dog skin tumour

Histiocytomas are:

  • Common in young dogs under two years old 
  • Reported more frequently in Bulldogs, Boxers, Bull Terriers, Cocker Spaniels, and Great Danes 
  • But in reality, they can occur in almost any breed 

Do Histiocytomas Go Away on Their Own?

Most histiocytomas resolve naturally within 2–3 months. However, removal is recommended if they:

  • Become infected 
  • Grow large 
  • Cause discomfort or irritation 
  • Show features suspicious for the rare malignant form (Malignant Fibrous Histiocytoma) 

In these cases, the growth is surgically removed and often sent to a specialist pathologist for confirmation.

A Reminder to All Pet Parents

Always have any new lump or bump examined by your vet. It is not possible to determine exactly what a mass is simply by looking or feeling it.

What Happened to Godzilla?

Godzilla’s histiocytoma needed to be removed — and we’re pleased to share that he made an excellent recovery. Thank you to Ashley Liu (Godzilla’s mom) for the beautiful collage of his journey.

Till next time,
 Dr Larry
 Bruma Lake Veterinary Clinic

Treating Canine Parvovirus: What Every Pet Owner Should Know

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In our previous article, we discussed how dangerous Canine Parvovirus (Parvo) is for dogs. Unfortunately, there is still no cure — but with the right veterinary care, many dogs can survive and recover fully.

How Parvovirus Is Treated

Treatment for Parvovirus focuses on intensive supportive care and managing the complications caused by the infection. This typically includes:

  • Hospitalisation and intravenous fluids to correct dehydration and restore electrolyte balance
  • Anti-nausea medication to reduce vomiting and improve comfort
  • Antibiotics to protect against secondary bacterial infections
  • Nutritional support, including feeding tubes if a dog is unable to eat on its own
  • Close monitoring of vital lab values, including blood glucose, potassium, serum protein, white blood cells, and red blood cells

Abnormalities in these parameters can be addressed as needed.

We often add potassium and glucose to intravenous fluids to prevent life-threatening low levels of both, as these are the most common metabolic problems we see in Parvo cases.

We generally do not give anti-diarrhoeal medication, as it’s important for the dog to pass the virus-laden stool and clear harmful material from the intestines.

Worms — whether visible in the stool or not — can worsen the disease, so all Parvo cases are dewormed as part of their treatment plan.

Parvo is a serious illness that requires constant attention, often over several days of hospital care.

New Developments in Parvo Treatment

In recent years, monoclonal antibody therapy has emerged as a promising new treatment in some parts of the world. While results are encouraging, access remains limited and the cost can be high.

For most dogs, early, aggressive supportive care continues to offer the best chance of survival.

Why Early Treatment Matters

Dogs infected with Parvovirus can deteriorate very quickly — sometimes within hours. The sooner treatment begins, the better the outcome.

Puppies and small-breed dogs are particularly vulnerable due to their size, weaker immune systems, and lower fluid reserves.

Prevention Is Always Better

While modern veterinary medicine can save many dogs from Parvo, vaccination remains the most effective protection.
 It is safe, affordable, and far less costly than emergency hospitalisation.

If your dog’s vaccinations aren’t up to date, now is the time to act.

Bruma Lake Vet
1 Glanville Avenue, Cyrildene
Call 011 622 8813 or WhatsApp 065 977 1082 to book your dog’s vaccinations or to learn more about Parvovirus prevention.

Dog Poisoning: What Every Pet Owner Should Know

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Dog poisoning is a serious and often fatal emergency that can happen in any neighbourhood. Sadly, poisons such as Aldicarb (commonly known as “Two Step”) are still being used illegally — sometimes to target dogs before break-ins.

Even tiny amounts of these substances can be deadly, and dogs can die within minutes of ingestion if not treated immediately. Knowing what to look for — and how to respond — can save your pet’s life.

Common Symptoms of Poisoning in Dogs

If your dog suddenly becomes ill, look out for the following warning signs:

  • Foaming at the mouth
  • Vomiting or diarrhoea
  • Severe abdominal pain
  • Muscle twitching or spasms
  • Weakness, collapse, or coma
  • Breathing difficulties
  • Sudden changes in behaviour
  • Constricted or dilated pupils

If you suspect poisoning, seek veterinary help immediately — every minute counts.

What To Do in an Emergency

  • Get to a veterinarian right away. Do not wait for symptoms to worsen.
  • Keep pets and children indoors until the property has been checked.
  • Wear gloves when handling your pet — saliva or vomit can still be toxic.
  • Search your yard or surroundings for suspicious food or bait.
  • Clean contaminated areas with slaked lime and water (use gloves).
  • Alert your security company or neighbourhood watch.
  • Report the incident to the police so it can be properly documented.

Prevention Tips

  • Keep dogs indoors at night whenever possible.
  • Check your property regularly for unfamiliar or suspicious food.
  • Warn neighbours about poisoning risks in your area.
  • Never use “Two Step” or Aldicarb for pest control — it’s illegal and deadly to pets, wildlife, and people.
  • Aldicarb is often sold unlabelled as rat poison by hawkers, so it’s important never to buy any such products.

A Final Word

Poisoning causes intense suffering, and even with emergency treatment, survival is not guaranteed. Prevention and vigilance are the best ways to protect your pets.

If you ever suspect poisoning, act fast — immediate veterinary care can make all the difference.

Bruma Lake Vet
1 Glanville Avenue, Cyrildene
Call 011 622 8813 or WhatsApp 065 977 1082 for emergency assistance or advice.

Understanding Canine Parvovirus: Why Vaccination Is Critical

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Canine Parvovirus (commonly known as Parvo) remains one of the most serious and preventable diseases seen in dogs today. Unvaccinated dogs are especially at risk — and while some may survive with intensive care, many do not.

This highly contagious virus spreads quickly through communities, making vaccination and awareness essential to protect your pets.

What Is Canine Parvovirus?

Parvovirus is a highly contagious and potentially fatal viral disease that attacks a dog’s gut and immune system.

It spreads through:

  • Contact with infected stool or vomit
  • Contaminated shoes, clothing, bowls, or kennels
  • Surfaces where an infected dog has been — the virus can survive for months in the environment
  • Flies, birds and rodents, which can carry and spread the virus from contaminated areas to clean ones

Even a trace amount of the virus is enough to infect another dog.

Symptoms to Watch For

Parvovirus symptoms often appear suddenly and progress rapidly. Look out for:

  • Vomiting and diarrhoea (often bloody)
  • Loss of appetite and weakness
  • Severe abdominal pain or collapse

If you notice any of these signs, seek veterinary attention immediately. Early treatment significantly improves the chances of survival.

Treatment

There is no specific cure for Parvovirus. Treatment focuses on intensive supportive care, which may include:

  • Intravenous fluids to prevent dehydration
  • Medication to control vomiting and secondary infections
  • Nutritional and immune support

Newer therapies, such as antibody treatments, are showing encouraging results — but success still depends on early, aggressive veterinary intervention.

Prevention Is the Best Protection

The good news is that Parvovirus is entirely preventable.

Vaccination saves lives. Most Parvo cases occur in unvaccinated or partially vaccinated dogs.

Ensuring your pet’s vaccinations are current and complete is the most effective way to protect them.

Important: Don’t let your puppy leave your property until at least two weeks after their third vaccination, when their immunity is properly developed.

Stay Informed and Prepared

If you’re unsure about your dog’s vaccination status, contact us today — it could save their life.

Our team can check your pet’s records and schedule any necessary boosters.

Bruma Lake Vet
1 Glanville Avenue, Cyrildene
Call 011 622 8813 or WhatsApp 065 977 1082 to book vaccinations or request advice.

How Often Should Dogs Be Vaccinated Against Parvovirus, Distemper, and Hepatitis?

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A client recently asked us a great question: “Are vaccinations for Parvovirus and Distemper a once-off, or do they need to be repeated?”

It’s an important topic — and the answer could save your pet’s life.

Vaccinations are not a once-off. They’re essential for maintaining your pet’s immunity and protecting them from preventable, often fatal diseases such as Parvovirus, Distemper, and Infectious Canine Hepatitis throughout their life.

Puppy Vaccination Schedule

Starting at 5–6 weeks old, puppies receive their first vaccination. Three vaccinations are given, each one month apart. These protect against:

  • Distemper
  • Infectious Canine Hepatitis
  • Parvovirus
  • Coronavirus
  • Parainfluenza

The third vaccination also includes Rabies.

Important: Don’t let your puppy leave your property until at least two weeks after their third vaccination, when their immunity is properly developed.

Adult Dog Vaccinations

At one year old:
Your dog needs a booster for all vaccines, including Rabies. This is their fourth vaccination.

At two years old:
Another full booster is recommended for continued protection.

After this, the frequency of vaccination depends on your dog’s lifestyle and risk level:

  • Active dogs (those that go for walks, attend training, go to daycare or stay in kennels, or participate in shows): Annual vaccinations
  • Homebodies (dogs that rarely leave the property): Every second year
  • High Rabies risk areas (such as KwaZulu-Natal) or dogs that travel between provinces: Annual Rabies vaccination is mandatory

Dogs that stay in kennels or attend daycare should also receive a Kennel Cough (Bordetella) vaccination, as this infection spreads easily in social environments.

Why Staying Up to Date Matters

Keeping your pet’s vaccinations current protects them from serious and preventable diseases — and helps prevent the spread of these illnesses in your community.

It’s also important to know that Parvovirus and other infections are dose-dependent — meaning the severity of infection can depend on how many virus particles your dog is exposed to.

If there have been many Parvo cases in your area, or if your dog has come into contact with a Parvo case, you should vaccinate immediately, even if you normally fall into the group that vaccinates every two years.

If you’re unsure when your pet’s last vaccination was, contact us to check their records or schedule a booster.

Bruma Lake Vet
1 Glanville Avenue, Cyrildene
Call 011 622 8813 or WhatsApp 065 977 1082 to book your pet’s vaccinations or confirm their schedule.

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