Category: Uncategorised

When a Rescue Cat Stops Going to the Loo!

Treacle, a 13-year-old rescue cat, hadn’t had a poo for three days, and Mrs Collins was understandably worried. Like many people who adopt an older pet, she’d quickly formed a deep bond — along with a strong sense of responsibility for her new companion.

There had been a few hiccups in the early days. Treacle had a delicate tummy and a tendency to be a little grumpy (and occasionally swipy). But with time, patience, and the right diet, she began to settle. She gained confidence around the house and even started exploring the garden.

Her daughter, Andrea, was equally relieved. As the designated backup for vet visits, scratches, and emotional support, she was delighted to discover that Paws Indoors could take one worry off her list. Our DBS-checked mobile vet team visits pets at home — offering reassurance, gentle care, and expert advice without the stress of a trip to the clinic.

What We Found During Treacle’s Home Visit

When we arrived to check on Treacle, Mrs Collins feared constipation. A quick look in the litter tray revealed just two small, hard pellets — but her tummy was otherwise empty.

As we examined her, something else caught our attention: Treacle’s odd, stiff walk. When our vet, Rosie, gently touched her back legs, Treacle made it very clear that this was a painful area.

Even though she could still hop onto the sofa and seemed mobile, her hip pain was significant — far more than anyone realised.

Treating the Whole Pet, Not Just the Symptoms

We recommended treatment for Treacle’s hip pain — not because we expected her to be chasing birds again, but because managing her discomfort would help solve many of her other problems.

Here’s how easing Treacle’s pain helped improve her overall wellbeing:

· Better hydration – Comfort made her more willing to walk to her water bowl and drink regularly, reducing the risk of constipation.

· Improved grooming – With more flexibility, she could keep her coat clean and healthy.

· Happier mood – Less pain meant less irritability, making her calmer and more affectionate.

· Better long-term health – Reduced stress and inflammation improved her comfort and resilience.

· Peace of mind for her owners – Mrs Collins and Andrea could relax knowing Treacle was comfortable and content.

This case perfectly illustrates why we take a holistic approach to pet care. Treating pain doesn’t just solve a single issue — it improves appetite, mood, hygiene, and the emotional bond between pet and owner.

Why Holistic Care Matters for Older Pets

For many older people, pets like Treacle are more than companions — they’re daily motivation, a source of comfort, and often their closest friend. Caring for those pets is about much more than medicine; it’s about protecting that special relationship and improving life for everyone involved.

Compassionate Vet Care at Home

At Paws Indoors, we believe in treating pets as part of the family. Our mobile vets provide gentle, fear-free, holistic care — right in the comfort of your home.

Call us today on 01508 498718 Email: info@pawsindoors.co.uk Visit: www.pawsindoors.co.uk

Because a happy, comfortable pet means a happier home.

Thank you

To everyone who has supported us recently, at dog shows, in our photo competition or popped in to our afternoon tea. The photos are now with the judges and winners will be announced around the middle of October.

If you’d like to see all of the pictures submitted, you can click here, and once on the page click on the View Gallery button.

 

Have you had any visitors recently?

Ones you’d like to get rid of?

Now is the time to be thinking about whether you need to top up your flea control. Peak flea season is in the Autumn , and those pesky little blighters party when you turn the heating on!

Fleas will bite cats, dogs and people. Unpleasant for any pet but particularly dangerous for young pups and kits, elderly pets and those with pre-existing skin disease.

As always, prevention is better than cure, as once established, a flea infestation can take months to eliminate.

We always make a risk based assessment in regards to flea and worm treatments, so if you would like to discuss what would be best for your pets, please give us a call.

Have you thought about joining one of our Pet Health Plans

What is a Pet Health Plan?

A pet health plan is an affordable, stress-free way to keep pets healthy. Here’s how ours works:

Convenient home delivery – flea and worming products arrive straight at your door, saving you time and hassle.

Never forget again – no more missed treatments, just consistent protection.

Save money – spread the cost monthly and enjoy discounted products, making pet health care more affordable.

Extra support – for pets that are tricky to medicate, our consultation-included plan means one of our nurses can visit every                                  three months to apply the treatments for you.

Our plans are designed for real-life, busy families, where pet care is left to the person who may also be looking after the household, older relatives, new babies, and, of course, pets with strong opinions about medicine! With regular parasite protection, you’re not only safeguarding your furry friends but also protecting your loved ones at home.

Fireworks

If you have a pet that is scared of fireworks, now is the time to think about making preparations to help them cope.

Tips to reduce firework phobias.

1. Find some firework footage online, e.g. on Youtube, and play it on your tv, initially on mute, so that your pet gets used to the changing visual. Start during the day, when your pet is relaxed and perhaps distracted with a chew or toy.
2. Playback on a daily basis, gradually turning up the sound, a little at a time to get your pet used to the noises. Only play for a few minutes each time, and if your pet is still frightened then, go back a step and turn the noise down a bit.
3. Gradually build up the volume level and the duration of the fireworks.
4.  Make a cosy den for your pet – in a cupboard or under a table, or, if they are already crate trained, use this. Somewhere dark, small and familiar. Make it their own special place. There are various pheromone sprays or plugins that you can use near the den so if feels extra snuggly. Feed special treats that are only allowed in the den.
5. Try and sound/light proof the den as much as possible, e.g. put an extra duvet over the top of the crate or fit a curtain.
6. On the day of fireworks, stick to your normal routine, although be aware that some may be let off even before it gets dark.
7. Try and act normally. If you become anxious about your pet’s behaviour, they will take this as a cue that there is definitely something to be worried about.
8. If you fell that your pet would benefit from extra help – some mild sedation or calming meds, please get in touch.

Surgery Early Closing on Friday the 28th November

The surgery will be closing at 5 pm on this day as the staff have their Christmas Dinner. If you have an emergency between 5 and 6 on this Friday please call the mobile number , 07986 933849. After 6 pm, please phone Norwich Night Vet on 01603 867 330.

Finally

We do like getting out and meeting people – we don’t have a shop front so it is a good way for us to spread the word about Paws Indoors. If you have a community group who would like a talk from Rosie, or Emmaly, please get in touch.

All best wishes from everyone at Paws Indoors.

 

 

Life can get hectic, and when our pets become unwell, the stress can feel overwhelming. That’s precisely what happened to Judy Graham, a busy mum, carer, and devoted pet owner, when her two-year-old spaniel Snoopy started coughing.

To make matters worse, Jack the cat – affectionately nicknamed “The Ripper” – had fleas that Judy couldn’t manage to treat. With a new baby due to visit the house and her elderly mum depending on daily visits from Snoopy, Judy suddenly found herself under immense pressure.

When too much lands at once

Snoopy’s coughing quickly became a concern. After examining him, I explained that chest X-rays were needed. Judy’s immediate worry was how she would manage it – she didn’t drive, and Judy’s budget was already stretched.

Thankfully, Snoopy was insured. At Paws Indoors, we reassured Judy that we could collect Snoopy for his X-rays, help her with the insurance paperwork, and safely deliver him back home afterwards. On top of that, we promised to help with Jack’s flea problem. (Our top tip: lure a reluctant cat into the bathroom with Dreamies or fish – fewer hiding places make the job easier!)

The diagnosis – and why it matters

Snoopy’s X-rays revealed lungworm, a serious condition often affecting young dogs who nibble grass or eat snails carrying the parasite. While lungworm doesn’t affect people, many other parasites can be particularly dangerous for babies, the elderly, and anyone with a weakened immune system.

With treatment and regular check-ups, Snoopy was soon on the mend. Meanwhile, after a short bathroom stand-off, Jack had his flea and worm treatment applied and was back to his usual antics.

Why parasite protection matters for every household

During a well-earned cup of tea with Judy, we talked through what to do next. Snoopy and the home would both need treating for fleas, and with the season just starting, keeping on top of parasite control was essential. With a new baby soon to be visiting regularly, regular worming was equally important.

That’s when I suggested the easiest and most cost-effective way to approach this was with a pet health plan.

What is a Pet Health Plan?

A pet health plan is an affordable, stress-free way to keep pets healthy. Here’s how ours works:

Convenient home delivery – flea and worming products arrive straight at your door, saving you time and hassle.

Never forget again – no more missed treatments, just consistent protection.

Save money – spread the cost monthly and enjoy discounted products, making pet health care more affordable.

Extra support – for pets like Jack, our consultation-included plan means one of our nurses can visit every three months to apply the treatments for you.

For Judy, our pet health plan was a lifesaver. Snoopy’s treatments were taken care of, Jack’s flea troubles were under control, and the whole household could finally breathe a sigh of relief.

Why choose a Health Plan with Paws Indoors?

Our plans are designed for real-life, busy families, older relatives, new babies, and, of course, pets with strong opinions about medicine! With regular parasite protection, you’re not only safeguarding your furry friends but also protecting your loved ones at home.

Ready to take the stress out of pet care?

Let us help you keep your pets happy, healthy, and protected all year round.

📞 Call us today: 01508 498718
📧 Email: info@pawsindoors.co.uk
🌐 Visit: www.pawsindoors.co.uk

Because your pets deserve the best care – right at home. 🐾

Cleopatra’s story: How a dental check gave our elderly cat a new lease of life

A grand old lady in decline

Cleopatra, a cherished family member, was showing signs of ageing. She was 17, frail but dignified, with a wispy coat and a gentle soul. Her days were spent curled on the sofa, seemingly content but increasingly withdrawn. Her owners, Mike and Jenny, noticed her slowing down. They initially attributed it to old age, but something felt off. She was not her usual self.

She had grown up alongside their children, a constant presence through the years. So, they called Paws Indoors to see if anything could be done to help her in her twilight years.

The hidden pain: when teeth are the problem

Cleopatra’s check-up was mostly reassuring—her heart was strong, her tummy fine, her eyes and ears clear. But then we looked in her mouth.

Her teeth were covered in tartar, her gums inflamed and sore. Mike and Jenny were surprised. “But she’s eating fine,” Jenny said.

It’s a common misunderstanding. Pets often continue eating even with advanced dental disease. They’re hungry, and they simply endure the pain. They don’t cry out or limp—pain in their mouth is invisible, but constant. They become less active, less playful and less engaged – symptoms which owners put down to ageing, not pain.

Dental disease isn’t just about the mouth

Rotten teeth don’t just cause localised pain. The inflammation they cause contributes to rapid ageing, affects internal organs, and can even accelerate cognitive decline. It makes arthritis worse and robs pets of their joy in everyday life.

If you clean up the teeth, everything improves.

A brave decision

Mike and Jenny listened to all my reasons for performing dental treatment on Cleopatra, which would involve an anaesthetic and a day at the hospital. They were cautious, as at her age, it wasn’t an easy decision—was it worth the risk and expense for an elderly cat?

We reassured them: we’d run blood tests first to rule out any underlying conditions. If her body was up to it, there was so much she could gain—relief from pain, a better quality of life, and maybe even more precious time.

They bravely agreed.

A second youth

Cleopatra’s dental treatment was a success. She lived another two years, and they were wonderful years.

She became engaged again, choosing to sit on laps, rubbing around Jenny’s legs in the kitchen, and even pouncing on Christmas wrapping paper. She was still old, but now she was herself again—curious, affectionate, and most importantly, alive.

When she finally passed, it was with peace and love. Jenny told us, “We’re so glad we went ahead. Those two years were a gift.”

Is your pet quietly suffering?

If your elderly cat or dog seems to be ‘just getting old,’ don’t assume it’s only age. Subtle changes could be signs of hidden pain, often dental. It’s crucial to pay attention to these signs and seek professional help.

At Paws Indoors, we’re here to help your pets live not just longer lives, but better ones.

🐾 Book a mobile vet visit today

Let us come to you—stress-free, compassionate care right in your home.
📞 Call us or book online at pawsindoors.co.uk

Your pet deserves comfort. Let’s make their golden years truly golden.

July Newsletter

We hope that everyone is enjoying the lovely Summer weather. Get your cameras ready for our Pet photo competition! We have been out and about at fetes and dog shows and also our 21st Birthday afternoon tea. Thank you to everyone who sent us good wishes.

We are also very excited to have received two nominations for the Petplan Veterinary Awards 2025. Petplan have been running these awards for many years and they are regarded as a prized accolade within the veterinary sector. We are only a small practice so even to get nominated is a big achievement for us and a real boost to know that our work is being appreciated.

If you would like more information or would like to add to our nominations, please follow this link-Petplan Veterinary Awards 2025

Pet Photography Competition is now open!!

There are three categories-

Our Bond, Family Portrait and Just for Fun.

All photos need to be submitted by September 15th.

Click here to go to the competition page with all the information on how to enter, prizes, ts and cs etc.

We are thrilled to have the assistance of three excellent judges, Caroline.shops, who we are privileged to have as a client. Caroline is a rising star on social media with her thrifting. Kerry Beacom, who is the head vet at Pact, the charity that we are supporting, and Chris Ball, a local photographer.

Click Here to see the Gallery of photos that have been submitted.

We are doing all this to raise money in aid of Pact. If you would like to donate, please go to our JustGiving Page

Holiday top tips

If you are going away with your pet, here is a quick checklist to ensure that mishaps are minimised

• Check your microchip details are up to date and ensure you have a spare pet tag for their collar.
• If you’re heading to the beach remember to take plenty of fresh water for your dog.
• Take a pet first aid kit ( tick hook, bandages, antiseptic for cuts and grazes).
• Research local vets in case you need to find one in an emergency.
• Check with your vet about what novel parasites your dog may encounter, either abroad or in different parts of the UK.
• Ensure vaccinations are up to date if you are leaving your pet in a kennels or cattery.
• Ensure you have enough of your pet’s regular medication to last you through the holiday.

 

How often should I worm my pet?

We were having this discussion recently in the practice. With increasing concerns over the use of pet medications getting into the environment it is sensible to dose pets on a case by case basis.

Having said that, in high risk situations, it is sensible to worm your dog monthly. Unlike flea and tick treatments, wormers do not have a lasting protective effect. They are out of the pet’s system within a couple of days.

High risk for dogs is if you can say yes to one of the following

• Your dog is regularly walked in an area known for lungworm ( we have lungworm in Norfolk).
• Your dog eats a lot of grass ( this is where the snails and slugs, that carry lungworm , will leave the larvae for your dog to pick up).
• Your dog is young ( more likely to be inquisitive and eat grass/ snails/ things it shouldn’t).
• You regularly walk your dog in areas where there are lots of other dogs or where they can scavenge wildlife.
• You have pre school age children in the house (to prevent spread to the children).
• You have someone in the house who is immunocompromised.
• You feed a raw diet that has not been pre frozen at -20 deg C for one week.

High risk for cats is essentially hunting. If cats hunt they need worming every 4-6 weeks.

For dogs and cats that are low or moderate risk then worming once every three months is sufficient. Cats that live indoors are unlikely to need worming unless fleas make their way into the house – fleas can transmit a tape worm.

Rabbits can be treated against a parasite that causes brain and kidney damage. We would recommend worming rabbits twice yearly if they live or have access to the outside.

There are good medications that you can buy over the counter, but not all medications treat all worms. We are always happy to give advice on what is best for your own pets.

Wishing you all a good Summer, wherever you are spending it. Take some good family snaps of you with your pets and enter them into our competition!

All the team at Paws Indoors.

 

 

Pet Photography Competition

We are very pleased to announce our photography competition in aid of PACT.

PACT – People for Animals Care Trust. PACT are a local charity that does fabulous work with both pets and wildlife. Our vet Lesley spent some time working at PACT and we know that many of our clients have animals that have been rehomed from there.

 

Click here to see the Gallery of photos submitted.

 

Judges

 

Caroline.shops

See Caroline’s bio below

Kerry Beacom, senior vet, PACT

Categories

There are three categories

1. Our Bond

A photo that demonstrates the special bond between you and your pet, snuggling up in a cosy spot, exploring your favourite place, or sharing an activity.

A portrait , formal or informal , showing how your pet is at the heart of your family.

3. Just for fun!

Anything else that shows the fun side of owning a pet, funny faces, antics or poses.

Prizes

There is a prize of a £50 Charity shop gift voucher for the overall winner.

There will be three runner up prizes of £20 Charity shop gift vouchers, one for each category.

In addition, one of the photos will feature on our new calendar photo magnets.

 

How To Enter

1. Download and complete the entry form here Pet Photography Competition Entry Form
2. Email the completed form and attach the photos to info@pawsindoors.co.uk
3. Entry is free but we would encourage you to make a donation on our JustGiving page Just Giving PACT . We would suggest a minimum donation of £1 per entry.
4. All entries must be received by 15th September 2025. Winners will be announced by 15th October 2025.
5. By entering this competition, you agree to be bound by these Terms & Conditions.

 

🐾 Pet Photography Competition – Terms & Conditions

1. Eligibility

Entry is open to residents of the UK.

Entrants must be the legal owner of the pet featured in the photograph.

Up to four photos per person are permitted.

2. How to Enter

Entry is free but we encourage a donation in aid of PACT animal sanctuary, via the Justgiving page that we have set up.

Complete the entry form Pet Photography Competition Entry Form.

Submit your photographs and entry form to  info@pawsindoors.co.uk

All entries must be received by 15th September 2025. Winners will be announced by 15th October 2025.

3. Photo Requirements

Entries must be original, owned by the entrant, and must not infringe any third-party rights.

By submitting a photo, you confirm that the pet was not harmed or distressed during its creation.

4. Permission to Use Photos

By entering this competition, you grant Paws Indoors Limited a non-exclusive, royalty-free, worldwide, perpetual license to use, reproduce, and publish your submitted photograph in any of our marketing, promotional, and social media materials.

You will not be entitled to any payment or credit for the use of the image, although we may credit you as the photographer at our discretion.

5. Judging and Prizes

The winning photo(s) will be chosen based on creativity, quality, and character by a panel of judges, see above.

Winners will be notified via email within 30 days of the closing date.

The prize is described above and is non-transferable and non-exchangeable.

6. Data Protection

Any personal data provided will be used solely for the purposes of administering this competition and in accordance with our Privacy policy.

By entering, you consent to the collection and use of your data for the above purposes.

7. General

Paws Indoors reserves the right to amend or withdraw the competition at any time without notice.

By entering this competition, you agree to be bound by these Terms & Conditions.

 

Privacy Notice – Pet Photography Competition
Paws Indoors is committed to protecting your personal data. This Privacy Notice explains how we use any personal information you provide when entering our pet photography competition.

1. Who We Are
We are Paws Indoors Limited, located at The Veterinary Surgery, Broaden Lane, Hempnall, Norwich, Norfolk, NR15 2LU. You can contact us at info@pawsindoors.co.uk regarding data protection matters.

2. What Information We Collect
When you enter the competition, we may collect:

Your name

Email address

Pet’s name

Submitted photo(s)

3. How We Use Your Information
We use your information to:

Administer the competition (e.g. contact winners)

Publish winning or shortlisted photos, possibly with your first name and pet’s name

Promote our business via marketing, website, and social media

4. Legal Basis for Processing
We process your data under:

Consent – when you submit your entry and agree to our Terms & Conditions

Legitimate interest – to promote our business using submitted photos

5. Data Sharing
We do not sell or share your data with third parties, except where required by law or for hosting platforms (e.g., website or email services).

6. Photo Use
By entering, you grant us a royalty-free, perpetual licence to use your submitted photo for marketing purposes.

7. Data Retention
We retain your data for up to 48 months unless you ask us to delete it sooner.

8. Your Rights
You have the right to:

Access your data

Request correction or deletion

Withdraw your consent at any time

Lodge a complaint with the Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO)

9. Contact
To exercise your rights or raise any concerns, email us at info@pawsindoors.co.uk.

The story of Tiger: A shy rescue finds his place

When Paul first laid eyes on Tiger, a stunning tabby with a zest for life, it was love at first sight. But bringing Tiger home revealed the reality of adopting a rescue. For the first two weeks, Tiger lived under the sofa, only emerging at night to eat. Any attempt to pick him up sent him diving back into hiding.

Gradually, Tiger began to trust Paul and his partner, Stefan. He progressed from sitting with them on the sofa to curling up with them in bed, always on his terms.

Trouble begins: Stress and unwanted behaviour

Tiger loved his perch at the front window, tail twitching as he watched the world outside. But a leak in the bathroom led to days of workmen and noisy repairs, and Tiger retreated under the sofa again. Soon after, Paul noticed troubling behaviour: Tiger was weeing in odd spots, outside the litter box — in the stair cubby, by the radiator, and even on the bed.

Stefan was frustrated, fearing they’d made a mistake. Paul was heartbroken. Online remedies didn’t work. That’s when they called Paws Indoors.

A different perspective: The cat’s eye view

We suggested they confine Tiger to the kitchen for our visit to avoid his usual hiding spot under the sofa. With minimal restraint and calm handling, I was able to examine Tiger, much to Paul’s amazement. Even though he could escape if he wanted to, he sat quietly as I checked his tummy and vital signs.

But the real insight came from walking through the house, from a cat’s perspective.

Scent matters

Their sleek, minimalist home looked stunning and only something I could aspire to — but felt sterile to a cat. Regular cleaning and reed diffusers stripped away Tiger’s own scent. Everyone knows that dogs’ noses are legendary, but cats also rely heavily on scent for comfort and territorial awareness. Constantly losing his scent meant Tiger felt the need to mark his territory with urine.

The view is a double-edged sword

Tiger’s perch at the window seemed like a fun birdwatching spot, but he was also scanning for intruders. Unseen by human eyes, the scent of feral or roaming cats signalled to Tiger that his territory was under threat. He knew they were there as he could smell them. This was likely one of the reasons why he was urinating in odd places. He was establishing his territory and sending out a signal. Partly, he felt he needed to do this as his comfy bed and fleecy throws were changed, at least twice a week, removing all trace of his own scent.

Our recommendations: A home that works for cats and humans

Here’s what we suggested to help Tiger feel more at home:

Adjust the scents

Reduce scented products and reed diffusers.

Rotate but don’t completely replace all of Tiger’s bedding — this way, there would always be some of his scent about and less other scents he felt he had to overcome.

Create visual boundaries

Use plants at the bay window.

Apply frosted film to the bottom half of the patio doors – this way, Tiger would feel more secure when observing through the window and wouldn’t need to guard the front and back entrances.

Add vertical space

Invest in designer cat trees, tall structures with multiple platforms and hiding spots, to give Tiger safe, elevated retreats. These trees provide cats with a sense of security and a place to observe their surroundings, reducing stress and unwanted behaviour.

Prevent bad habits

Temporarily keep the bedroom door shut to avoid repeated marking.

A happier ending in sight

Paul and Stefan took our advice seriously. Within a week, the changes showed results: far fewer accidents and no more scratching at the bedroom door. Tiger had claimed the top of his new cat tree as his nest.

Urine test results came back normal, confirming the issue was behavioural. As we reminded them, progress takes time, but the direction was positive, and Tiger was starting to relax.

Does your cat seem stressed, avoid the litter tray, or act out in puzzling ways? Your home might be perfectly styled for humans, but not yet feline-friendly.

Contact Paws Indoors today here  or call us on 01508 498718 for a home consultation. Let us help you create a space where both you and your cat can truly thrive.

 

 

News for June

June is turning out to be lovely and warm. Some pets do not do well in the heat, particularly the older ones. If you’re out exercising your dog, best to go early in the cooler mornings and take plenty of water with you. See our tips further down for how to help keep your pet cool.

June is also national microchipping month. Have you checked that your pet’s microchip details are up to date? Particularly important if you are taking them away with you on holiday, or if they are staying with a pet sitter. Most chip companies will allow a back up telephone number on the pet’s record.

 

 

Rainbow Bridge

We also had national pet memorial day earlier in the month. We know how important it is to our clients to cherish the memory of pets that have passed. We work with Rainbow Bridge Pet Cremations. We have chosen to work with them because we know that they always give pets that have passed the love and respect that they deserve. They are also able to offer a range of memorial products. Rainbow Bridge Memorials and Shop

If you are struggling with the loss of a pet, either through death, theft, or a change in circumstances, there are plenty of resources available to help. Take a look at our Final Farewell page.

Dog training tips

We know that understanding your dog and communicating between the two of you is one of the biggest challenges that dog owners face. We have asked some local dog trainers to give us their best tips. Isabella Macbride runs Smart Dog Training , with classes in Attleborough and Eaton, plus one to one training in your home. Thanks, Isabella, we’ll be posting more of her tips on our Facebook page.

 

Hazards – Grass seeds, heat stroke.

This is the season for grass seeds. They get stuck in ears, paws, eyes and other places. Be alert to any changes in your pet’s behaviour such as shaking their head, squinting, rubbing at an eye or locking a paw. Grass seeds anywhere are very uncomfortable for your pet so please get in touch for advice.

Heat stroke, shows up as excessive panting, disorientation, appearing drunk and collapse. We would advice you to get your pet wet – jugs or buckets of water from the cold tap or the garden hose – run the hot water out of the hose first. It is important to cool your pet quickly and getting them wet with cool or cold water is the most effective way to do this. Do not worry that you will cause ‘shock’ or ‘ shut down their circulation’. Not cooling quickly enough is far more detrimental. Call us for advice, and if you are able, once wet, bring them down to the surgery.

Follow this advice from the RSPCA for keeping dogs cool. How to keep your dog cool

And some really handy tips for cats too. How to keep your cat cool

Drug delivery, repeat prescriptions.

Please can we remind everyone that we need five working days for repeat prescriptions. This gives enough time for the vet to review and approve the medication, order it in, if need be, and then post it out to you.  Posting is the most cost effective and efficient way of getting your medications to you.  We are able to deliver medications if you have run short and out of time. The cost for drug delivery by a clinician is £11.00, if it can be fitted in to their rounds, £35.00 for urgent/ same day delivery.

You are, of course, welcome to collect medications from the surgery instead. There is no charge for medications delivered at the same time as an appointment.

 

Friends of Hempnall School Fest.

We are proud to be part of our local community and will be at the Friends of Hempnall School Fest on the 29th of June, between 12.00 and 16.00, running a  teddy bear hospital. Bring along any little people you know and their teddy bear and they can play at being a vet or vet nurse. Lots of other activities too, all in aid of raising funds for new play equipment. See you there!

Finally

• we are still putting together the final touches for our photo competition, so look out for a separate mailing shortly. Keep snapping some lovely pics of your pets, especially now the sun is out.

Cocoa’s Story: How a home visit gave an old dog a new lease of life

At Paws Indoors, we believe that veterinary care should be stress-free and comforting, especially for our older pets. That’s why mobile vet visits can make all the difference. Cocoa’s story is a perfect example of how compassionate care at home can help pets and their families through difficult times. 

A worrying call for Cocoa 

Andrew and Callum rang us one morning, distraught. Their beloved Cocoa — a 13-year-old scruffy brown dog with a cheeky smile — wasn’t himself. He wouldn’t eat. He couldn’t get up without help. He’d lie down again, clearly in pain. They feared the worst. 

A familiar face and a gentle examination 

I headed to their home straight away. Cocoa greeted me from his bed with a thump of his tail and a brave attempt to sniff this new visitor. Despite his apparent discomfort, he still had that spark of friendliness. He was the delightful sort of dog that many years ago, when I was young, would have been called a mongrel. With a scruffy, uncontrollable chocolate brown coat, now tinged with grey, a waggy, whippy tail and a cheeky expression, he was probably related to a labradoodle.  

As I gently examined Cocoa from head to tail, I talked Andrew and Callum through each step. Their worry was palpable as it was easy to guess what was going through their minds — it’s hard to see an old friend struggling.  

But there was good news: Cocoa wasn’t terminally ill. He was in pain because of age-related arthritis in his hips and knees — not an uncommon issue for dogs his age, which meant he had slowed down a lot. Aside from his rickety old limbs, Cocoa was quite fit for a 13-year-old dog. 

I explained that it is often difficult to spot the signs of pain in a dog; they don’t do what we would expect. They don’t cry out or even limp. What they do is change their behaviour – move slowly and move less, put weight on the limbs that hurt least, but still look like they are using all four legs.   

 

A plan to help Cocoa at home 

While arthritis can’t be cured, it can certainly be managed. I suggested that we bring Cocoa to the surgery for X-rays to confirm the diagnosis and rule out any more serious conditions. Andrew and Callum helped me lift him into the car, trusting us to help their gentle boy. 

Later that day, the X-rays confirmed he had some arthritis in his hips and knees, and we started Cocoa on anti-inflammatories, pain relief, and joint supplements. Already, there was a difference — he was moving more easily and seemed more like his old self. 

Simple adjustments, big difference 

Back at home, I showed Andrew and Callum a few simple changes they could make to make Cocoa’s life a little easier. They could easily… 

• Add rubber-backed mats to cover slippery laminate floors 

• Create a small improvised ramp at the back door to help him get in and out 

• Reduce the need to jump or climb unnecessarily 

We also discussed laser therapy, a non-invasive treatment that helps reduce inflammation and promote healing. Cocoa had his first session that same day. 

Cocoa’s comeback 

Two weeks later, I returned to check in. What a difference! Cocoa was on his feet, moving comfortably, and had even returned to barking at the front door and playing tug with Basil, the family’s younger beagle. 

But the most heartwarming sight was the smiles on Andrew and Callum’s faces. Their worry had turned into relief and joy as they saw their beloved Cocoa, the old rogue, still by their side. Cocoa was moving more easily, free of pain, and had even resumed some of his old habits, such as barking at the front door and playing tug-of-war with Basil, the family’s younger beagle. 

Do you need a mobile vet in your area? 

If you live in our catchment area [https://pawsindoors.co.uk/information/areas-covered/] and your pet is in need, whether for arthritis management, regular health checks, or end-of-life support, Paws Indoors is here for you. Our mobile vet service brings compassionate, professional care straight to your door. 

At Paws Indoors, we’re privileged to look after some truly remarkable pets —

and Lily, a regal Ragdoll cat with bright blue eyes and a coat as luxurious as velvet, is no exception.

For the past twelve years, Lily has lived under the loving care of Mr and Mrs Turner. Recently, during a routine check-up, her story reminded us how subtle signs in a senior pet can reveal important health changes — and how early intervention, a proactive and responsible approach, can make all the difference.

The first clue: a matted coat

During Lily’s latest vaccination appointment, I noticed a few matts near the base of her tail. Mrs Turner explained that while Lily normally enjoys being brushed, she’d become sensitive about being touched in that area.

Until recently, she kept her coat in tip-top condition by herself, enjoying an additional brushing as more of a bonding activity than a necessity. Lily had always taken pride in keeping herself tidy. But something had changed.

Subtle signs of ageing

As Lily strutted around the kitchen, tail held high, I asked if there had been any other changes in her routine. Mr Turner mentioned she was no longer keen on venturing into the garden and couldn’t jump onto the kitchen counters like she used to. It was easy to assume this was “old age,” but these signs often tell a deeper story.

When I gently lifted Lily and examined her from nose to tail, I could feel the stiffness in her joints and the thinning of muscle on her limbs. Her walk confirmed it — she was no longer as agile, choosing to hop via the footstool to reach her favourite cushion on the sofa.

Ageing gracefully — with help

Understanding the real causes behind “old age”

Many owners dismiss stiffness, reduced activity, and weight loss in their senior pet as inevitable signs of ageing, but they are often symptoms of underlying conditions that can be treated.

Lily was not doing badly for her age, although a thorough check-up and blood test (which Lily stoically endured), discovered she was in the early stages of renal (kidney) disease. Her joints were also inflamed and painful, especially her elbows.

Starting the right support

We started Lily on a pain management plan that included joint supplements and medication. Mr and Mrs Turner also agreed to try a renal-friendly diet designed to support kidney function while still being palatable for cats. Lily wasn’t best pleased about this part but suffered in dignified silence.

One month on: a remarkable transformation

When I visited Lily a month later, the difference was astonishing. She could jump onto the sofa in one go again. Her playful spirit had returned, and she was patrolling the garden again. Best of all, the matts were gone — she was grooming herself again, pain-free. “I’ve got my princess back,” Mr Turner told me, beaming.

Although she was a bit choosy with the renal food (what Ragdoll isn’t?), her overall health and happiness had greatly improved.

A reminder to pet owners: regular check-ups matter

Lily’s story is a powerful reminder that older pets can thrive with the proper support. What seems like “just getting old” may be something treatable, which is great news!

Join our Pet Health Plan

I suggested to Mr and Mrs Turner that they enrol Lily into our pet health plan, as this would save them money on her regular visits to administer her injectable medication and that pets on the Vitality health plan also get an annual blood test included. Sorry Lily.

It’s a simple, affordable way to ensure your pet stays healthy and happy for years to come.

Is your senior pet slowing down?
Book a wellness check at pawsindoors.co.uk and let’s help them age gracefully, just like Lily.