Category: Small Animals

Pet First Aid – Be prepared!

If your pet has an accident or mishap in front of you, it can be incredibly harrowing, especially if you don’t know what do to. Being prepared for an emergency is incredibly important, and knowing a few simple first aid tips for pets can help immensely should the worst happen. In this blog, I will share a few general first aid tips for any emergency, as well as how to deal with particular incidents.

  • Firstly, ensure that you have an up-to-date telephone number for both your regular vet and an emergency vet. Not all practices are open 24 hours, and your pet may need professional care as soon as possible. Keep these numbers somewhere that’s easy to get to, such as stuck to the fridge. Phone your vet immediately before attempting anything yourself, and they will advise you on what to do. If the accident is severe, your vet may make a home visit.
  • If you own cats or other small animals such as rabbits or ferrets, don’t leave animal carriers stuck in the loft or forgotten in a cupboard. Make sure that they’re easy to get to in case of an emergency, as it’s more than likely that you’ll have to take your pet to the vet’s. You could also leave a few blankets inside the carrier, as you may need them depending on the situation.
  • Finally, remember that should anything happen to your pet, they are likely to be scared, in pain and confused. This may cause even the most docile of pets to lash out, even to people that they know, love and trust. Approach your pet slowly and calmly, and stay away from their mouth if possible. Also, in some situations you should muzzle them, but not if they have any problems with their breathing or if they are vomiting. If you do not have a muzzle at home, you can use a strip of soft cloth or a necktie or nylon stocking. Wrap it around their nose, under their chin and tie it behind their ears. Be careful not to tie it too tightly to allow them to pant and you can use a towel wrapped around the head for small animals.

Bearing these points in mind will go a long way to helping in an emergency. Just be sure to call your vet before attempting anything for yourself, and they will give you the advice that you need. These basic procedures will help in particular situations, and you should familiarise yourself with them should your vet advise that you do them.

  • Bleeding/Bite Wounds

Approach your pet slowly and muzzle them. In the case of bites, check the wound for debris or other contamination. If there is anything like this, wash the wound with a saline or balanced electrolyte solution. If you don’t have any of this, then use plain water. Wrap any large wounds to keep them clean and apply firm, direct pressure until the bleeding stops or at least 10 straight minutes. Ensure that you don’t use a tourniquet or any bandages that could cut off circulation.

  • Burns

This refers to chemical, electrical or heat burns, with symptoms including singed hair, redness, swelling or blistering. You need to flush the area with plenty of cool, running water. However, if there are large amounts of dry chemicals on the skin, be sure to brush these off first as the water may activate them. Then, apply an ice pack for 15-20 minutes. You can use frozen food, but any ice pack must be wrapped in a clean, dry blanket or towel first.

  • Choking

If your pet is choking, they will have difficulty breathing, may be pawing at their mouth and may have blue lips and tongue. More than likely, this will make your pet frantic so be careful not to let them bite you. If they can still partially breathe, the best thing to do is get them straight to a vet’s. If not, look into the animal’s mouth to see if you can see the blockage. If possible, use pliers or tweezers to remove it, but you must be really careful not to push it further in. If the object is too deep or your pet collapses, then put your hands on both sides of your pet’s rib cage and apply firm, quick pressure. Alternatively, you can lay your pet on their side and strike the side of their rib cage firmly with the flat of your hand three or four times. You should continue doing this until the object is removed or you arrive at the vet’s.

  • Fractures

Your pet may have a fractured limb if they are in pain, are refusing to use that limb or if it is at an odd angle. Firstly, muzzle your pet and look for bleeding. If you can stop this without causing more damage, then do so. In case of a fracture, keeping the limb supported is the most important factor. Don’t try to set the fracture by tugging or pulling on it, just get your pet to the vet’s.

  • Poisoning

Symptoms of poisoning include sickness, diarrhoea, convulsions, weakness, salivation or depression. If you know what your pet has ingested, record what it is and how much. If possible, retain the packaging and phone your vet immediately. If your pet has something on their skin, such as paint or insecticides, ask your vet whether to wash it off and how to do so. Ensure that you do not induce vomiting, as this may do more harm than good.

  • Seizures

Symptoms of seizures include salivation, loss of bowel control, muscle twitches or falling unconscious. Move your pet away from anything that might hurt them, using a blanket for padding or protection. However, do not restrain your pet as this will put you at risk. Time the seizure, they should only last 2 or 3 minutes, and then keep your pet calm and quiet and phone your vet.

  • Vomiting and/or Diarrhoea

In both cases, withhold food for 12 – 24 hours. If they’ve been vomiting, wait for two hours after the vomiting stops and then give your pet ice cubes. Then, you can slowly increase food and water over the next 12 to 24 hours. In the case of diarrhoea, make sure that water is readily available. Phone your vet for more advice, and don’t try any at-home remedies without knowing the exact cause.

  • Heatstroke

We have gone into heatstroke in much more detail in a previous blog, but you should look out for difficulty breathing or rapid breathing, vomiting, collapsing and a high body temperature. Cool your pet by placing them in a bath of cool (not cold) water, gently soaking them with a garden hose or wrapping them in a cool, wet towel.  Be careful not to overcool them, and phone your vet.

While these first aid tips may help in an emergency, your priority in any situation should be to get your pet to a professional. Phone your vet immediately should anything happen, and do as they say as it may be dangerous to move your pet. While no one ever wants their pet to fall ill or get hurt, being well prepared and ready to act quickly and calmly will make a whole world of difference should the worst happen.

No Comments by Sarah on May 10, 2012
filed in Birds, Cats, Chinchillas, Dogs, Ferrets, Fish, General Interest, Guinea Pigs, Hamsters, Pet Owner Information, Rabbits, Rats and Mice, Small Animals
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A beginner’s guide to owning rabbits.

Carrying on with our series of ‘Beginner’s Guides’ blogs, today I thought I’d have a look at one of the Uk’s best-loved pets: the rabbit!

Sadly, rabbits are also one of the UK’s most neglected pets for many reasons. Firstly, they’re often bought at the insistence of children, who quickly become bored with them. Then, they’re left on their own, in hutches that are far too small for them. Although they’re still fed and cleaned out, they don’t have the exercise and company that they need.

Before you even decide to buy a rabbit, you should be aware of a number of things. Rabbits are naturally sociable animals, and so need to preferably be kept with another rabbit. It helps to introduce rabbits to each other when they’re young, otherwise they may fight. Also, it’s no ideal to keep rabbits and guinea pigs together as the rabbit may bully or injure the guinea pig, and they have different dietary needs.

Your rabbit’s environment is incredibly important, and you should bear in mind that a hutch will not be enough room. Rabbits really need a raised hutch, to stop it becoming damp, with a large run attached to it. At The Pet Express, we have a great range of rabbit hutches and runs, so you’re sure to find something that will match your budget and your available space. What would be best for your rabbits is a hutch with an attached run, with a tunnel leading to a much larger run.

Inside the run and hutch, your rabbits need shelter from the sun and rain, which you can create by using a tarpaulin over part of it, or perhaps creating a wooden shelter. They will also want to escape to these if they feel afraid. You will also want to give them plenty of things to do such as tunnels, wood to chew on, and toys to play with. If you have space, a sandbox or somewhere for your rabbit to dig would be great.

When it comes to bedding, your rabbits need natural materials that they can eat, such as hay or dust-free straw. This bedding needs to be replaced regularly, and the inside of the hutch should be cleaned often. Your rabbits will also need places to go to the toilet, and this can use hay or shredded paper. Again, this needs to be replaces and cleaned often.

Finally, in regards to feeding, grass or hay is the most important food for your rabbits. This is why a garden run is great, as your rabbits can constantly graze on grass. Otherwise, ensure that hay is always available. Complete rabbit foods are a good addition, and you should feed them washed, leafy foods every day. Carrots or other root vegetables should only be given as a treat.

Now you have everything you need to give your rabbits a healthy, safe home. As long as they’re handled and given plenty of attention every day, they will live long and happy lives. Rabbits are wonderful, inquisitive and intelligent animals, and with the right care they make incredibly rewarding pets.

by Sarah on May 1, 2012
filed in Pet Owner Information, Rabbits, Small Animals
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Keeping your pets happy and healthy over the hot summer months.

Here at The pet Express, we’re always devastated to hear of animals (especially dogs) becoming incredibly ill and even passing away because they’re not given the proper care and attention on hot days. This week’s bumper blog post is all about how you can keep your pets safe, healthy and comfortable over the summer.

  • Dogs

It seems a summer doesn’t go by without a news story about dogs dying in hot cars. Did you know that when it’s just 22°C outside, the temperature inside a car can rise to 47°C within just 60 minutes? Even leaving a window rolled down or a sunshield on your windscreen isn’t enough; dogs should never be left alone in a car on a warm day. In fact, if you see a dog left in a car, call the police on 999, as owners have a legal duty to care for their animals under the Animal Welfare Act.

When at home, ensure that your dog always has access to a cool, shady spot or a well-ventilated room as well as plenty of fresh drinking water in a heavy bowl that can’t be knocked over. Also, don’t leave your dog in a conservatory, as these are prone to getting exceedingly hot just like cars.

If your dog has long hair, be sure to brush them regularly and give them a haircut at the beginning of the summer. Regular baths will help with skin irritation caused by the heat, as well as helping your dog to cool off. Just be sure to use cool water, not cold.

When out and about, ensure that you have water with you and give your dog small amounts throughout the day. Dogs still need exercise when it’s warm, so avoid the hottest parts of the day and take them for a walk in the early morning or evening. Finally, be aware that dogs can get sunburned too, especially on light-coloured noses and ears. Your vet can advise you about suitable sun creams.

  • Cats

Much like dogs, cats need to have somewhere shady, cool and ventilated to move to when they get too hot. It is also recommended that cats are kept indoors during the middle of the day, when temperatures are at their highest.  If this isn’t possible, then a cat kennel or covered area outdoors will suffice.

Cats also need access to fresh water at all times. If they are to be kept outside, ensure that the water is kept in a heavy bowl, or one with an ‘unspillable’ design. Keep the bowl in the covered area to stop the water evaporating, and check it regularly to refill it.

Cats with light fur are also susceptible to sunburn on their ears and noses, just like dogs. Again, speak to your vet for advice on the best pet-safe sun cream to use. If your cat has particularly long fur, be sure to brush them regularly and give them a haircut if needed.

  • Caged Animals, Birds, Reptiles & Fish

The biggest danger with any pet kept in a tank, vivarium, aquarium, hutch or cage is that they’re limited to where they can move to in order to escape the sun. Take the time to move your animal’s enclosure to somewhere that is out of direct sunlight, cool and well ventilated. If the hutch has an attached run, make sure that there is a cooler, shady area available at all times throughout the day.

Regularly check your animal’s enclosure to ensure that they always have plenty of fresh drinking water available. It may also be worth investing in an extra water bowl or bottle, depending on how often you may be able to check these.

In the case of fish and aquariums, their water needs to be kept clean, well oxygenated and algae free. If your aquarium or tank has a filter, check to make sure that this is working at all times.

As with dogs and cats, long-haired rabbits and guinea pigs will need regular brushing, and possibly a haircut to keep them cool.

  • Heatstroke

By following all of this advice, you will greatly reduce the chances of your pet becoming ill over the summer. However, be aware that it could still be possible for your pet to develop heat stroke and that this can be fatal, so it’s very important that you know the signs as well as what to do. Especially susceptible are dogs with short muzzles, long coats, or overweight, old or young dogs.

Symptoms to look out for include: excessive panting, heavy salivation, rapid pulse, very red gums or tongue, lethargy (tiredness), lack of co-ordination, being unable to get up after collapsing, vomiting and diarrhoea. Your pet may even lose consciousness in extreme situations.

If you suspect that your pet has heatstroke, quickly move them to a cool and shady area. You need to lower their temperature gradually, so as not to send them in to shock. Do this by spraying or dousing them with cool water, not cold. You could use a shower or a spray bottle, and try to get them near a fan. Let them drink small amounts of cool water, and call your vet immediately. As soon as your pet is cooled down, you will need to take them to your veterinary surgery as they may need further treatment.

The summer is a fantastic time for enjoying the sunshine with your pet, whether it’s in the garden or at the beach or park. These simple, easy-to-follow steps will ensure that you and your pets can make the most of the next few months, while remaining happy, healthy and safe!

For more information, visit the RSPCA’s fantastic FAQ pages, and for all your pet’s summer needs, visit the Pet Express!

by Sarah on April 3, 2012
filed in Birds, Cats, Chinchillas, Dogs, Ferrets, Fish, General Interest, Guinea Pigs, Hamsters, Pet Owner Information, Rabbits, Rats and Mice, Reptiles, Small Animals
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Funky and fun hamster cages

Hamsters make fantastic pets for children, and I’m sure that kids will love to see their special pet entertained and amused by our fantastic range of hamster cages. Packed full of tunnels and tubes, these cages create the perfect environment for your hamster.

Image of Rotastak Pink Fun Palace

Rotastak Pink Fun Palace

I’m yet to find a little girl who wouldn’t want this gorgeous cage for her furry friend. The looping tubes provide exercise and fun, while the extra rooms provide more space for your hamster without taking up more of your bedroom.

Image of Rotastak Mission Pod Home

Rotastak Mission Pod Home

Boys, on the other hand, will love the futuristic look of this cage. The tubing and pods are great fun, and give your hamster loads of room. A mezzanine level in the main cage adds even more space.

Image of Circus Fun Hamster Cage

Circus Fun Hamster Cage

Of course, if neon pink or green plastic isn’t your taste, but still want a hamster cage that’s unique, you can’t get more so than this fantastic circus cage. The whole design is made to look like a big top, right down to the tiny flags on the roof!

As well as having brilliant design, these cages provide all that your hamster needs to be happy, healthy and safe.

by Sarah on April 1, 2012
filed in General Interest, Hamsters, Product News, Small Animals

A Hutch Is Not Enough!

Did you know that rabbits are the UK’s most neglected pet? They’re often bought for children who quickly lose interest and are then left alone in hutches that are too small for them, without the attention, exercise and space that they need. That’s why the Rabbit Welfare Association has launched their fantastic new campaign: A Hutch Is Not Enough!

This campaign is designed to bring rabbits’ basic needs to everyone’s attention, and ensure that no rabbit is left without the valuable space and attention that they need. The RWA recommends that rabbits are kept in neutered pairs, one of each sex.  They then go on to recommend a hutch of at least 6′ x 2′ x 2′ for two rabbits, and an attached run of at least 8′ x 4′.  This gives your rabbits space to really stretch their legs, and being kept in pairs gives them plenty of company.

The RWA website has more information on the A Hutch Is Not Enough campaign, as well as fantastic examples of the best possible environment for your rabbit. A lot of people don’t realise just how much space a rabbit needs to be really happy and healthy, so please take the time to check out the RWA’s site and ensure that you have all the information you need before making the decision to buy a rabbit.

Of course, once you’re sure that you can give a rabbit a happy and spacious home, head over to the Pet Express to check out our great range of rabbit hutches, runs, toys and accessories!

by Sarah on March 17, 2012
filed in General Interest, Pet Owner Information, Rabbits
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A huge selection of Rabbit Hutches!

Rabbits come in a variety of different shapes and sizes and so it is only right that we offer rabbit hutches to complement each and every breed!

The rule of buying a rabbit hutch is simple, the larger the rabbit the larger the rabbit hutch should be, and whether you own tiny Netherland Dwarfs or large English Lops, we are confident you will find the perfect rabbit hutch amongst our collection.

Our rabbit hutches come in a variety of different materials such as plastic or wood, and we offer both one-tier and two-tier hutches to complement gardens of every size. With rabbit hutches stretching up to a whopping 6ft long, and a range of hutch covers and accessories, we have everything you need to create the perfect living environment in our online collection, and we will deliver your chosen hutch directly to your door!

So why not treat your pets to a new rabbit hutch this spring, and have very happy Easter Bunnies indeed!

by WendyK on March 4, 2012
filed in General Interest, Pet Owner Information, Product News, Rabbits
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Great New Rabbit Hutches for Spring

If you are about to move your rabbit hutch back into the garden after a long winter indoors, why not take this opportunity to browse our new selection of rabbit hutches and treat your beloved bunnies to a brand new home this spring!

Our rabbit hutch collection is now bigger than ever before, and with hutches to suit rabbits, guinea pigs and ferrets of all sizes, it is easy to find a hutch that will complement your garden, your pets and most importantly – your budget!

This lovely 4ft Ship Lap Two-Tier rabbit hutch is large (141 x 114 x 131cm), spacious and will create a comfortable living environment for any small – medium sizes rabbits.  An attractive rabbit hutch that will complement very garden, it features an enclosed sleeping area on the top level that can be closed off at night, and a large exercise area on the bottom level accessible via the internal ramp.

Strong and sturdy, this rabbit hutch has an Apex Felt Roof, predator proof mesh and corner handles so it may be moved from one location to another with ease.

The Grand Barn is an extra large rabbit hutch split over two levels.   Finished in warm brown wood stain and featuring a terracotta coloured felt roof, this lovely rabbit hutch has an enclosed sleeping area and an open exercise area on the lower level.

The interior ramp allows your rabbits to move freely from one level to another, and the roof panel opens up so you have full access to clean and add fresh food & water.

This chalet style hutch is ideal for smaller rabbits and guinea pigs. Made from weather resistant materials and fox proof wire, this stunning rabbit hutch measures 97 x 78 x 119cm, and has sliding doors for easy access.

The ideal rabbit hutch for those with limited space, it will complement all small gardens and patios.

All these great rabbit hutches come with free delivery, so why not upgrade today and get your bunnies ready for Easter!

by WendyK on February 27, 2012
filed in Chinchillas, Ferrets, General Interest, Guinea Pigs, Pet Owner Information, Product News, Rabbits
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The Complete Rabbit Starter Kit

If you are thinking about getting a pet this spring, why not visit your local pet rescue centre and adopt one of the many rabbits that are in desperate need of a good home?

As one of the most neglected animals in the UK, rabbits are often abandoned or given to rescue shelters when the novelty of a cute bunny wears off, and as a result, there are thousands of these beautiful creatures living their lives out in small hutches just waiting for someone to give them a loving home.

Rabbits are relatively easy to care for and with the right rabbit hutch, an exercise run, plenty of fresh clean bedding and a balanced diet, they will become part of the family and live well into their teens, so they make wonderful pets for children and adults alike.

Today, many people choose to let their rabbits roam freely in the home, and with the right security measures in place and a spot of toilet training this can work exceptionally well.  Alternatively, you can keep your rabbits outdoors in a rabbit hutch providing it is in a secure, dry area, and that they have plenty of space to move around and exercise.

If you are brand new to keeping rabbits and do not know where to start, our complete rabbit hutch starter kit will help you set up home for your new pet.  Including a rabbit hutch, bedding such as hay, straw and wood flakes, a drinking bottle and feeding bowl, rabbit food, toys and a rabbit beginners book, this complete package has everything you need to get started, simply add a bunny!

Ideal for smaller rabbits and dwarf breeds, this great starker kit will provide a safe and secure living environment for your pets, and it is delivered ready to move into!

If you want to give a good home to a loving pet this spring, why not adopt a rabbit – and have your very own Easter Bunny!

by WendyK on February 21, 2012
filed in General Interest, Pet Owner Information, Product News, Rabbits
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Rabbits: A beginner’s guide

If you are thinking about getting a rabbit there are certain things to consider before choosing your new pet.  While relatively easy to care for, rabbits do require a secure living environment, plenty of interaction and exercise, daily cleaning and feeding, and a whole lot of love if they are going to grow into happy and healthy adult rabbits.

One of the most neglected pets in the UK; rabbits are often taken to animal rescue centres once the novelty of a new pet has passed, so if you would like to give an abandoned rabbit a new home, your local rescue shelter is always a good place to start.

Lifespan

Rabbits can live anywhere from 6 – 15 years so they should be considered a long-term commitment much like a dog or cat. If you are getting a rabbit for your teenage child, the lifespan should be taken into consideration as you may well end up looking after the rabbit if your child moves away to study!

Rabbit Hutch

Is your rabbit going to live indoors or out?  This is something you will need to decide before choosing your pet.  Outdoor rabbits require a large rabbit hutch with an enclosed sleeping area, a secure exercise run, and plenty of fresh bedding.  The positioning of an outdoor rabbit hutch is vital; the area should be free from draughts, out of direct sunlight and easily accessible for daily cleaning.

The lucky rabbits that get to live indoors also require a rabbit hutch, which they can retreat to when feeling vulnerable or tired.  If your rabbit is going to be free roaming, then you might want to consider litter tray training (it really is possible!), and make sure that all electrical cables and wires are secured – rabbits love to chew!

Diet & Rabbit Food

While bugs bunny might survive on carrots your own rabbits will not, and so you need to provide a balanced diet of fresh hay, fresh green vegetables, specially prepared rabbit food mix, and fresh water.  Most rabbits do enjoy carrots, but as they are high in sugar this should be kept to a weekly treat rather than part of their staple diet.

Health

Rabbits are relatively ‘hardy’ creatures and providing they have a comfortable habitat and a balanced nutritious diet, they should thrive.  Pets that enjoy company, rabbits are generally much happier if they live in small groups.

Spaying and neutering rabbits is highly recommended, not only to prevent the obvious, but it also eliminates aggressive hormone-related behaviours.  As with all pets, if your rabbit does not look well it is always best to head straight for the vets.

Truly wonderful pets, rabbits are warm and loving creatures – and they just look for the same in return!

by WendyK on February 15, 2012
filed in General Interest, Pet Owner Information, Product News, Rabbits
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Hutches for Rabbits & Guinea Pigs, and Houses for Tortoises too!

If you need a new hutch for your beloved rabbits and guinea pigs or perhaps a new house for your tortoise, then you might be interested to know that we have added a fantastic selection of modern, practical and comfortable habitats to our collection.

With over 60 different rabbit hutches, guinea pig hutches and tortoise pens to choose from, there is something to suit pets of all shapes and size, so even if you keep ferrets, rats or chinchillas you will probably find the perfect housing solution amongst our range.

If you own big bunny rabbits then you are going to need a big rabbit hutch to house them in, and with our multi-purpose wooden house and run, your furry friends will be able to stretch their legs in style!  A great hutch for larger pets, the enclosed area measures 97 x 137 x 117cm, and the mesh covered exercise area measures 177 x 93.5 x 104.5cm.  A great housing solution of those with plenty of outdoor space, it is easy to build and easy to maintain.

Slightly smaller, but still large enough to provide your rabbits or guinea pigs with a comfortable living environment, the Meadow Lodge Grand Barn hutch measures 132cm wide by 88cm deep and is split over two levels.  The two levels are accessible via an internal ramp and the removable run roof panel provides immediate to your pets.

An attractive guinea pig/rabbit hutch, it features plastic-coated wooden floors and a hinged roof for easier cleaning.

Our Tortoise house/hideaway by Rabbitshack will provide a safe and secure home for your tortoise.  It features a covered sleeping area, a secure wire-mesh exercise run and as it measures 106.5 x 90 x 31cm, your pet will have plenty of space to move around at its leisure.

With spring around the corner, now is the perfect time to order your new rabbit hutch or pet hideaway and we will deliver it right to your door!

by WendyK on February 9, 2012
filed in Chinchillas, Ferrets, General Interest, Guinea Pigs, Pet Owner Information, Product News, Rabbits, Rats and Mice, Small Animals
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