News and updates from Animal Ark - vets in Essex

Happy World Book Day to our wonderful clients at Animal Ark Veterinary Centre in Ilford. Join us as we celebrate our favourite fictional pets. In this article we also explore how we can all take the lessons that we learn from our beloved fictional pets into our everyday lives. Whether you are a fan of the classics such as Wilbur the pig and Stuart Little, or a lover of Bluey and the Australian Heeler family, there is a fictional animal dear to all of us.

We understand that getting your furry friend to take their medication can sometimes feel like a challenge. Here we’ve compiled a handy guide to help make giving your pet medicine a much smoother experience for both of you.

Welcoming the New Year with resolutions for both you and your pets

As we step into a brand-new year, many of us will set new year resolutions to make positive changes in our lives. Why should this be any different for our family pets? Making resolutions for yourself and your pets can create healthy and happy habits and goals for the future. So, why not start the year with resolutions that cater to both you and your beloved pets?

At Animal Ark Veterinary Centre, we are here to help you discover the significance of including your pet's needs in your resolutions and how these changes can boost your pet's mental and physical wellbeing.

We believe that pet insurance in Ilford is an important part of responsible pet ownership. Owning a pet is hugely rewarding, but it can also be expensive if they are to suffer an illness or injury.

Essential research

There are many things to consider before you commit to a new pet and research is one of the best ways to prepare yourself. If you already have pets, then understanding how introducing a new pet could impact or affect your current animals is one important consideration. When choosing a pet, your decisions should be based on what best suits your lifestyle and living situation. Doing research on the different species and breeds will help you find a pet that matches your preferences and will teach you about their specific needs.

Over the last year, we have seen our costs increase significantly and we have absorbed the majority of these additional costs to try and support our customers during difficult times. However, with costs continuing to escalate, our prices need to increase to offset at least some of these higher costs.

We are warning pet owners to be aware of Christmas hazards which could require emergency treatment for their animals over the festive period. 

Caring for your senior pet

A dog or cat is considered senior after around 7 years of age, depending on the breed. Their needs may change as they get older, and you may need to care for them in different ways and make things more accessible. A senior pet may need more rest and comfort. They may also need easier access to their bed, food and water, especially if they develop arthritis or hip dysplasia. As every pet is unique, they show signs of ageing differently so it’s important to make some considerations where you can.

The clinical director At Animal Ark Vets, a leading Essex veterinary practice has returned to her former university in Greece  to inspire the next generation of veterinary surgeons. 

What does antibiotic resistance mean?

Antibiotics can be effective at treating bacterial infections. However, over time bacteria can evolve to become resistant to some antibiotics, making them less effective. The more we use antibiotics then the more quickly bacteria may adapt.