What Should I Do If My Pet's Vaccinations Are Overdue?

Diseases can be spread directly from dog to dog so it is just as important to make sure your dog also 'social distances'.

Below are a few tips to help prevent the spread of diseases:

• Keep your dog on a short lead when other dogs are around.
• Try not to let your dog in close contact with other dogs.
• Avoid walking your dog in shared spaces during busy periods.
• Don't let your dog drink from other dog's water bowls or share toys
• Try not to touch other people's dogs and cats.

You should also avoid walking your dog in high risk areas as they can also pick up diseases from the outside environment or wildlife. Take care by following the guidance below:

• Don't let your dog drink from ponds, lakes, rivers or puddles.
• Try not to let your dog sniff other dog's faeces.
• Avoid walking your dog in areas where there is likely to be a high number of rodents for e.g. farmyards and stables.
• Make sure to pick up your dog's faeces and dispose of this safely.

If you are concerned about your dog's health, please contact your local Vets4Pets.

Lots of diseases can be spread directly from cat to cat. Try to avoid contact with other cats, especially any stray cats in the area:

• If possible keep cats indoors, and try to limit the amount of time they spend outside during the day and especially overnight as this reduces the risks of cats fighting.
• Keep up to date with flea and worm treatment to protect your cat against fleas and ticks.
• Try not to pet other people's cats to prevent passing diseases from your hands.

If you are concerned about your cat's health, please contact your local Vets4Pets.

Myxomatosis and RHD are two diseases that can be prevented in rabbits with vaccinations.

Wild rabbits can carry these diseases and can be spread by biting insects such as fleas and mosquitoes. To try and prevent your rabbit from becoming infected follow the tips below:

• If possible, bring your rabbits indoors and if not kept away from wild rabbits. Also make sure to provide insect proof housing such as insect screens or fine netting across any openings.
• Use prescribed flea treatment from your vet on your rabbits regularly. 
• Try using fly repellents outside your rabbits housing.
• Make sure you keep their cage as clean and hygienic as possible.
• Try to feed your rabbit good quality grass or hay to minimize obesity and stomach problems. Avoid feeding your rabbit carrots as these contain high sugar content.
• Keep an eye on your rabbit's behavior and physical condition during warm days too make sure they are not soiling themselves.
• Still consider using flystrike preventative products even if your rabbit is housed indoors.

If you are concerned about your rabbit's health, please contact your local Vets4Pets.