Raw diets for dogs – natural or harmful?

There is a growing trend to feed raw diets to dogs and many of my clients do indeed follow these regimens and feel that their dogs are healthier as a result.  I do not wish to condemn such choices but do want to offer some words of caution as there is another side to the story.

The usual argument put forward for the feeding of raw diets is that their wild counterparts would eat raw food.  However, we must consider that the domestic dog has evolved away from the wild wolf over several thousand years meaning that they do not necessarily have the same resilience as they once may have done or that of a modern day wild dog such as a wolf, hyena or dingo.  Darwinian evolution selects for hardy individuals that are well adapted to survive the demands of the wild environment.  This equates to animals whose gastrointestinal systems are tolerant of whatever the animal may ingest.  One curious feature of such evolution is that dogs are able to trigger their vomiting reflex much more readily than humans so that they can void their stomachs if they have consumed something noxious which they cannot deal with, or if they wish to reproduce the food they have eaten so that their young may be nourished.

People often ask me what a wild dog would do if it developed diabetes, cardiac disease or any number of other examples.  The answer is simple – it would not survive.  Therefore, the genes coding for these illnesses would not be passed on and gradually, over many years, the population would become less susceptible to the disease in question.  The pressures of the environment naturally select for those most likely to survive it.

However, take the dog out of the environment and start to domesticate it and the reverse will start to happen.  Certainly in modern veterinary medicine, there is the means to support many diseases that would have hitherto been fatal to the wild ancestor.  Such genes may be passed on and the population devolve from the wild relations.

Further genetic diversity is introduced by man, who selectively breeds for certain desirable traits, such as ability to guard the cave or, in the modern world, have a certain conformation.  When one breeds to perpetuate good (or sometimes what most people would consider not so good) traits, characteristics and appearances, it is inevitable that unwanted genes will also come through.  There are many diseases which are seen in particular breeds of dog as a result of this.

So can modern domestic dogs cope with raw food?  Undoubtedly many will, but we do see a number of patients where they cannot and develop diarrhoea as a result.  They may simply be unable to digest the food in its raw state or they may actually acquire the organisms Salmonella and Campylobacter.  Either way, the inflammation that develops within the bowel can become persistent even after the initial trigger has gone and this is a condition we see frequently called inflammatory bowel disease.  However, it should be acknowledged that anything causing inflammation of the intestines and diarrhoea may lead to this, so the problem is not confined to raw diets.

A further, perhaps more significant, concern is these organisms colonizing the dog’s intestine without signs of diarrhoea as this poses a risk to the owner of contracting them from their dog and becoming ill themselves.  Children, elderly and immunosuppressed people would be most at risk from this.

Everyone must make their own decisions as to what is right for their pet, but these words should offer a note of caution that with every perceived advantage of raw food there will be potential pitfalls.

Running Your Own Business Means Being Well Organised

Being well organised is a key business skill. If you’re an organised person and you like animals then The Pets, Homes and Gardens Company have an opportunity for you.

As a way of working, running your own business is something many people reject because they’re not sure they have the business skills needed or because they believe it is more risky than working for someone else. However, if you’re organised and you’re prepared to listen to people who have experience of setting up their own successful businesses, then you can run your own business – and it could be happening faster than you might think!

The Pets, Homes and Gardens Company offer a unique license opportunity. We will show you how to set up and run your own pet sitting, home sitting and garden sitting business – all three options or just one, it’s your choice. That’s a key part of our philosophy, your choice. We know this market is a healthy one (even during recession) and we know it’s possible to run this business part time or full time and you can even choose who to work with and when.

Business skills don’t have to be complicated and you may be surprised how many skills you already have!

We have a three step process or you can call now on 01403 268282

Grass seeds get everywhere……! by Mark Maltman of Maltman Cosham Veterinary Clinic, Horsham

A genuinely perennial health problem for our pets are the effects of grass seeds, which we find invading all manner of locations. So far this season, I have found them in three separate dogs in the skin of the paw, in an ear and creating an abscess in a lung lobe.

Grass awns are small seeds which have one pointed end, whilst the other end is feathered. The picture shows the general size in comparison to a penny. Sometimes, the feathering and barbs can be much more florid and dramatic than on the one seen here.

Grass seeds are abundant at this time of year and so dogs and, to a lesser extent, cats are prone to collecting them in their fur when moving through long grass. Many will stay within the fur and then fall off again – indeed this is a dispersal mechanism for the seed – or they may be groomed out by the owner.

However, sometimes they will penetrate into the body using the tapered end to puncture the skin. Once inside, the barbs and feathers prevent backward passage and so the seed is trapped. The most common way we see these in the clinic is with a small hole in the skin, such as the one shown in the picture of the skin between the toes of a Labradoodle. The wound will be painful and dogs will lick persistently at it. An inflammatory response will occur as the body sees the seed as foreign material – the surrounding skin is reddened and watery, bloody fluid will run from the wound. In some cases, we can put a pair of forceps into the wound and retrieve the seed, but in others the pointed seed will have continued to penetrate away from the site of entry and these can be very tricky to find.

Seeds are most likely to penetrate the skin in areas which come into contact with them under pressure such as the feet or the bottom when the animal sits down. They can also get into ears and up noses causing great distress, with pain and pawing at the ear or nose. These cases usually require removal under sedation or general anaesthesia as the affected area is so painful.

The most serious problem occurs when an animal inhales a grass seed. This is most likely to occur when the dog or cat is running through long grass and breathing strenuously. Once the seed enters the air flowing in with inhalation, it is quickly gasped down into the lungs before it lodges. This causes a localised pneumonia in the area and sometimes an abscess may form. The seed can remain lodged or it can start to migrate further, once again with its pointed end forming a burrowing device. Affected animals will be coughing and often markedly off colour with a temperature. X-rays can show an affected area of lung and this can resolve with antibiotics if the seed is small and disintegrates into pus, but often they need removing with a bronchoscope (a thin endoscope which can be put into the airways under general anaesthesia – it usually finds a tell tail trail of pus which can be followed right to the site of the seed!) and occasionally, in very severe cases, thoracic surgery is required to remove the whole lung lobe.

For such a small and inconsequential object, a grass seed can cause a myriad of problems and it is quite remarkable how many different places they can turn up!!

Mark Maltman

Maltman Cosham Veterinary Clinic

Lyons Farm Estate

Lyons Road

Slinfold

W Sussex, RH13 0QP

01403 791011

Start a Pet Sitting Business in Three Steps

Do you want to start a pet sitting business? Do you want to be sure your business will work?

Here’s how in three steps:

1. Contact The Pets Homes and Gardens Company and ask for more information

2. Compare our unique licence opportunity with other methods of starting a pet and home sitting business and decide The Pets Homes and Gardens Company is for you.

3. Call to arrange your new business start up

It really is that easy.

A Pet Sitting Business Model that Works

We know our pet sitting business model works. It’s worked for us, we run a successful pet and home sitting business – and it’s worked for our licensees (you can ask them), they’re running successful businesses. That’s why we’re confident it will work for you too.

Our opportunity is unique because the fee structure is clear. No targets to meet, no ongoing large commitment – the way you run your business is up to you, part time, full time, pet sitting, home sitting, garden sitting – it’s your choice.

Friendly Advice from Pet Sitting Business Owners

When you call us (01403 268282) you’ll speak to Peter or Julie Maxted who can help you decide whether The Pets Homes and Gardens Company unique license opportunity is for you. Peter and Julie will also be there to support you in your growing business

Start a Pet Sitting Business?

Have you considered running your own pet business? Ever sat at home wondering what you could do – or walked your dog thinking of business ideas?

If so, you could start a pet sitting business very quickly.We’ve been running a successful home and pet sitting business for over ten years and last year we decided to offer our expertise to people like you. People who want to run a pet sitting business.

Our unique licence opportunity means no long tie-in, no ongoing fees and no targets to hit. You run your own business and we help by showing you how our successful pet sitting business works.

We’re available to answer any questions you may have, before you start your business or whilst you’re up and running. We’ll support you to grow the business you want.

A Pet Sitting Business

A pet sitting business is ideal whether you want to work full time or part –time, whether you’re about to work for the first time, returning to work after a career break or have now retired.

This business is flexible – you look after pets when you want to – and the beauty of this business is that many pets return time and again.

If you love animals then pet sitting is great fun and can be a rewarding and lucrative business.

Why Run a Pet Sitting business?

We wrote about some reasons to run a pet sitting business and our licensees agree. If you’re still not sure, read some more about running your own business.

Unique Licence Opportunity

We believe the opportunity we offer is unique and suited to you. Within weeks you could be running your own profitable pet sitting and home care business. Send off for more information today and within a few days you can decide whether this pet sitting opportunity is the one you’ve been looking for.

Adder Bites by Mark Maltman of Maltman Cosham Veterinary Clinic

Snake bites are not a common problem seen in veterinary practice, but they are always a concerning one. The summer months are when adders are most active and dogs foraging in undergrowth are most likely to disturb one. They are generally reclusive snakes and will quietly make their escape if they can, but they can bite if startled by a dog or human.

The adder’s objective will be to briefly bite and then escape. They are not aiming to kill the victim of the bite in the way they would their prey. Therefore, in general, they do not release significant amounts of venom in the short bite. This is compared to the situation where they kill prey, in which they bite and hold on, releasing venom into the subject for some seconds or even minutes.

This does not mean that a snake bite is not serious, but it thankfully means that they are not likely to result in death due to venom. However, they will still stimulate massive local inflammation and pain, sometimes with more generalised anaphylactic reaction in the body. So a suspected snake bite remains a matter of emergency as this allergic reaction can be life threatening in itself even without the venom.

Most owners whose dogs are bitten report that the dog was in undergrowth at the time and so they very rarely have seen the snake itself. They may hear the dog cry out. Wherever the bite has occurred, the soft tissue will immediately swell which can lead to lameness if on a limb or facial swelling if on the face. If swelling occurs around the throat region, then breathing difficulties may be observed. A generalised anaphylactic reaction will result in increased respiratory rate, progressing to shortness of breath; there may be vomiting and eventually the animal will collapse.

The Vet will treat the animal will intravenous fluids to support the circulation, pain killers, steroids and anti-histamines. The steroids and anti-histamines help to reduce the allergic response. Antibiotic cover is usually necessary. Good nursing care then will allow most dogs to recover. If there is a suspicious of significant evenomation by the adder then anti-venom can be ordered and couriered from London.

Snake bites are very rare, but are an emergency if they occur. If your animal is affected, you will probably never see the snake but you should be suspicious of a snake bite in situations where your pet cries out and rushes out of undergrowth when exploring, or if sudden onset massive swelling is observed in a localised area of the body. If you do suspect this, then call your vet immediately.

Mark Maltman

Maltman Cosham Veterinary Clinic

Lyons Farm EstateAdder yons Road

Slinfold

W Sussex, RH13 0QP

01403 791011

www.maltmancosham.co.uk

Summer Holiday Business Opportunity

It’s almost summer and a great time to take advantage of The Pets, Homes and Gardens Company unique franchise opportunity.

When people go on holiday, they really appreciate knowing their pets, home and gardens are being cared for – and that’s the business opportunity! Looking after peoples pets, homes and gardens whilst they’re away.

We’ve been running our own successful business for over twelve years now and we put together the unique franchise opportunity to help other people run their own business too. Call Peter or Julie on 01403 268282 and find out how you could be running your own business too.

Hot Weather Perils by Mark Maltman of Maltman Cosham Vets

Most of us will be enjoying the current spell of good weather and praying that it lasts all summer long, but those of us caring for animals need to be aware of sensible precautions to take to protect them in the heat. Many of these are the same as we would apply to ourselves and common sense is all that is required. House-sitters are in demand through the time of summer holidays and so these points are particularly pertinent to these surrogate carers.

Mad dogs (and Englishmen!) go out in the midday sun and the point is very apt as many dogs will be quite happy to run around until they collapse due to heat stroke. Dogs and cats can only sweat through their noses and paws, meaning that they rely on panting in order to lose heat. However, this rate of heat loss is not limitless and so a dog’s body temperature will continue to rise uncontrollably. This can result in collapse, seizures and sadly death, so we as humans need to intervene and make sure they are not given the chance to run in the heat. Walk them in the early morning or late afternoon/evening, ensure there is plenty of fresh water and shade available and, if necessary, hose them down with cool water or put them in the paddling pool!

Rabbits and guinea pigs in garden runs are also very susceptible to heat stroke so ensure the run is in the shade or that they have shady retreats to lie in, remembering that these areas will change throughout the day as the sun moves round.

Some dogs like to lie in the sun and, provided hairless areas are protected, this is allowable. The reason they can do this is because the hair coat and the air it traps insulate the skin from becoming unbearably hot. The important point is that they can move to the shade from time to time and that they are not running around in the heat.

Cats very rarely exert themselves enough to pant unless they have heart or lung disease, or have been in a fight or accident. Most owners will see their cats sensibly lying in the shade of shrubs. If a cat is seen panting, then this should alert the carer to the need for a vet examination to consider whether there is an underlying disease.

Older dogs, usually large breed dogs, may suffer from laryngeal paralysis which means that the larynx falls inwards and limits both the flow of air and the evaporation of water when panting. This means that they can be short of breath and/or overheat. Such dogs are usually intolerant of exercise and have very noisy breathing at the best of times, but become worst when summer months come on. It is a distressing condition but one which your vet will be able to consider an operation for so it is possible to improve the situation. Other respiratory and cardiac diseases can also be unmasked by the heat, so consult your vet if you are concerned your dog is breathless, tiring easily, collapsing or coughing.

Obviously, cars are extremely hot places to be and it is not safe to leave any animal in a hot car, even if the windows are open. Even the most loving owners get caught out so do be careful. Remember that it may be overcast when you leave the car, or it may be in the shade, but this can change as the day progresses so that the car ends up in full sunshine.

Hairless areas of skin such as the nose and ear tips are prone to burning and malignant melanomas can develop here just as they can in humans. Consider putting high factor sun block on these areas in summer months, but do buy a non-allergenic one which is suitable for children.

Fleas are a problem all year round nowadays, but peak in the summer months. Ticks, which can carry a variety of diseases, are most active in Spring and early Autumn. So ensure you have a thorough parasite control program and discuss what this should be with your veterinary practice if you are not sure. Likewise prevention of fly strike is essential in rabbits.

Watch out for dogs on the beach drinking sea water if they are hot, because this can lead to dangerously high salt levels in the body. A few laps will be harmless, but do not let them drink a lot – distract them and always ensure you are carrying a supply of fresh tap water with you.

On a brighter note, most arthritic dogs are better in the hot weather just like their human counterparts. The Summer is a time for enjoyment and a few simple precautions will help to keep your pets safe.

Mark Maltman

Maltman Cosham Veterinary Clinic

Lyons Farm Estate

Lyons Road

Slinfold

W Sussex, RH13 0QP

01403 791011

Home Sitting and Garden Sitting Business

Do you know that there are business opportunities available to look after people’s home whilst they’re away? Either away on holiday or just out for the day.

Home sitters visit homes and make sure everything is as expected – perhaps moving the post away from the front door, making sure doors and windows are still secure, even turning off the water in the event of a flood and notifying the home owner.

Sometime gardens need a little more attention than usual. Gardeners going on holiday for a week in summer when prized plants need more water may look for garden sitters to call round and water plants, check water levels in ponds, or make sure garden gates and sheds are secure.

The Pets Homes and Gardens Company’s Unique Franchise Opportunity will show you how to run your own successful home and garden sitting business. Read more about home and garden sitting, or call on 01403 268282.

Three Reasons to Run a Pet Sitting Business

A pet sitting business is a great business to run for these three reasons:

You can work with animals. If you love animals and you like to meet , feed and play with animals then a pet sitting business means you’re doing what you love.

The market exists. One of the most important aspects of setting up a new business is to ensure the market exists – that people want to buy what you’re selling. There is a market for pet sitting services. We know! We’ve helped new licensees set up and our own business is growing too.

You can work your own hours. Because there is strong demand for pet sitting services you can choose whether to take on jobs or not. And most pet owners want their pets to stick to a regular routine, which means it’s possible to plan your days to suit you (and the pets).

A bonus reason to run a pet sitting business

If you become a Pets Homes and Gardens Company licensee then there’s anther great reason to run your own pet sitting business. We already run a pet sitting business and we’ll help make sure yours is successful too. Read on for more information about The Pets Homes and Gardens unique license opportunity.

Pets Homes and Gardens: in the news again!

The Pets Homes and Gardens Company won ‘Business of the Month ‘ from Horsham’s Business Builder Club in January, which meant we were in the news again. This time the West Sussex County Times (Jan 27).

The unique license opportunity takes the best bits from franchising and licensing to give anyone starting a pet sitting or home sitting business a head start on success.

Pet sitting can include dog walking, but the main activity is looking after pets either in their own home, or offering small animal boarding (for guinea pigs, rabbits, birds, etc) at your own.

Pet sitting business start-up costs are low compared to many businesses and low overheads mean more profit for you. However, expert advice can help ensure you avoid common pitfalls directly relevant to pet businesses (for example, you must make sure you have the right kind of insurance) and working with experts can accelerate your success particularly in the early stages – that’s where a supportive team can help.

Peter and Julie know all about starting and running a successful pet sitting business and their unique licence opportunity can help you to run a pet business too.

People are at the core of any pet sitting business, so it’s important that licensees are animal lovers. Apart from that, the pet business suits part time or full time, working from home, new graduates,retired people and those made redundant looking for a change of direction.

You don’t have to wait for the next meeting of the Business Builder Club to meet Peter and Julie. Call now 01403 268282 and set up a meeting to have a chat and find out whether The Pets Homes and Gardens Company Unique Licence Opportunity could be for you.

Vestibular Syndrome In Dogs By Mark Maltman of Maltman Cosham Vets

Vestibular syndrome is a condition caused by a disturbance in the normal function of the inner ear which is part of the vestibular system. The vestibular system is comprised of the inner ear and a part of the brain – together these areas perceive sound and balance.

Balance is maintained whenever the head or body moves because the vestibular system, including the inner ear, has tiny nerve endings bathed in fluid which sense the movement and transfer information to the brain. The position of the body can then be adjusted to ensure that balance is maintained and this process of movement and resetting is occurring all the time at thousands of times a second so that the process of maintaining balance is smooth rather than jerky.

No one understands why vestibular syndrome occurs. It may relate to a spasm in the blood supply to the inner ear or an infection there, but often it is termed idiopathic which means it just happens. In humans, Meniere’s disease is a similar problem affecting balance.

Dogs typically suffer vestibular syndrome in middle to old age. Cats are only rarely affected. The symptoms will come on suddenly, without warning. The animal will tilt its head to one side and lose balance so that it falls repeatedly. The eyes will be flicking from side to side, which is sometimes quite subtle – this is called nystagmus. Motion sickness will be experienced and often result in physical vomiting. Commonly, affected dogs can panic and keep trying to move around. This is a very distressing condition for owners to witness.

Traditionally, this condition has been referred to as a “stroke”. However, we must come away from this terminology as it is not the same as a stroke, or cerebrovascular accident, in humans where the patient has a blood clot blocking an artery to the brain or a ruptured artery in the brain. These do occur in dogs but are more subtle owing to the fact that the dog does not use the same areas of the brain for movement as a human does and therefore paralysis is not so much of a feature. We need to change the terminology used as vestibular syndrome causes signs which are much more likely to be reversible than a true stroke and the prognosis is much better. Whilst vestibular syndrome and strokes may share some similar symptoms, they are not the same and owners are usually reassured when they know their dog has not had a stroke.

The diagnosis is usually straightforward – there are certain tests we carry out to distinguish between dysfunction of the inner ear and dysfunction of the components of the vestibular system within the brain.

The prognosis for full recovery in a few days is very good for most cases. Nonetheless, it is distressing for owners to watch their pet during this time. Generally, the symptoms peak in the first few hours and, over the next few days to a week, the pet will regain its balance and begin to eat again. Occasionally, the head tilt may persist, but usually without consequence.

As far as treatment goes, the truth is that there is a very little that you or your vet can do to alleviate the problem other than make the dog comfortable and allow time to pass. Some vets use medications to improve blood flow to the inner ear. Most dogs will benefit from anti-sickness drugs which will help with nausea even if vomiting is not actually physically present. Sedative can be used to calm the patient.

It is common to receive the advice to turn off the lights and keep the pet in a darkened room. Whilst this may help to reduce anxiety at first, after the first 12-24 hours it is now thought that it is a good idea to assist the dog to try and walk. The affected inner ear will start to adjust back and will be helped by the inner ear on the other side which will compensate to some extent. This process is felt to occur quicker if the pet is encouraged to regain activity and challenge the systems a little, albeit ensuring this is done in a safe environment.

In conclusion, vestibular syndrome is a distressing condition to witness but it usually has a very good prognosis. It is important that house-sitters are aware of the disease and not to term the problem as a “stroke” when speaking to their clients who may be away and receiving the news over the phone. Make arrangements for affected dogs to see the vet. Mark Maltman BVSc CertSAM CertVC MRCVS

Maltman Cosham Veterinary Clinic, Lyons Farm Estate, Lyons Road, Slinfold RH13 0QP (Due to open March 2011)

H: 01403 256840

M: 07540 983648

mark.maltman@maltmancosham.co.uk

www.maltmancosham.co.uk

New Business Opportunity

Pet sitting and home sitting is a business opportunity that allows you to choose the hours you wok and the work you do.

Did you start this year full of energy and a promise to change something? If you decided to change your working life for the better, what did you do? Has January almost slipped away without you doing very much at all?

Don’t worry, you’re not alone. Many people start out with goals and intentions and then slowly the good intention and most importantly, the action fades away.

Well it’s never too late. You could contact The Pets Homes and Gardens Company today and make the first step to a new working life for you. Find out about our unique license opportunity, talk to people who actually do the job every day and maybe, this year really could be the year you start a new job that’s better than any other.

Work from Home

Work from home? Running your own business? This might sound like an unrealistic dream or it might sound too risky to consider seriously. Ok, but what if we could show you how our own business works and what if we could introduce you to other people who have recently started the same business in another area, would you be willing to talk to us and find out whether you could run your own business?

If you don’t want to work in an office anymore then we’re with you – and we have an opportunity you might want to consider.

If you talk to small business owners some will tell you it was something they considered very carefully, some will tell you they always wanted to run their own business but didn’t know what to do and many will tell you that once you’ve started a business once, it gets easier the next time (and that it’s addictive and exciting). You can take a shortcut and learn from people running the same business as you. You can interact with other business owners doing exactly what you’re doing and you can benefit from working at home and part time if you wish.

Leave the office behind: request the prospectus and you could be running your own business within weeks.

Pet Sitting Business

If you’re considering running a pet sitting business, then before you make your decision, have a chat with Peter or Julie from The Pets Homes and Gardens Company.

Julie has been running a successful pet sitting business since 2002 and when Peter decided to help other people do exactly the same thing, The Pets Homes and Gardens unique franchise opportunity was developed.

Running a business is a commitment. It can be the most exciting thing you’ve ever done, it can be the most rewarding and at times it can be the most difficult – and that’s where support can make the difference between success and failure.

Call for a chat today 01403 268282 and take the first step into your new pet sitting business.

Part Time Home Working – Opportunities Available Now

If you’re looking for part-time work which allows you to be based at home, then consider The Pets Homes and Gardens Company’s unique franchise opportunity.

If you like animals, then the pet sitting business could be for you.

If you don’t like animals then the home and gardens sitting business could be for you.

We all know there are a lot of ‘scams’ trying to exploit people looking for part time work from home. There are also many genuine opportunities. Separating out the real opportunity from the get rich quick scams can be difficult.

We invite you to:

view our successful licensees websites

read about the key business skills we think you need

and find out more about us.

Watch That Weight by Mark Maltman, The Vet

As I wish readers a Happy New Year, the obvious topic that comes to mind is weight loss! It is a scary thought that up to 50% of Britain’s dogs and cats are overweight. You may be able to offer some advice to your customers although tact is of the essence here as the suggestion that a dog or cat is overweight can cause offence. In general, if one can easily feel the boney processes of the spine and the ribs then the animal is not overweight, whilst if you can see these parts of the anatomy from 10 paces the animal is probably on the lean side (though breeds such as Greyhounds will tend to fall into this category naturally).

So why are our pets overweight? Overfeeding is the biggest culprit, meaning more calories are consumed which are then stored within the body as fat. The amount of exercise or activity the pet gets makes a big difference to how much it weighs. Less activity means a greater risk of becoming overweight. Certain dog breeds are more likely to put on weight than others – most of us will be able to picture the fat Labradors we know! In contrast, mixed-breed cats, rather than pure breed, have a greater tendency to become obese. If a dog or cat has been castrated or spayed, their metabolism will slow down and therefore they are more at risk of becoming overweight if their feeding regimen is not adapted. Puppies that are fat will often grow into fat adults because they have produced increased numbers of fat cells during growth. A cat’s risk of becoming overweight increases after it is three years old but then decreases again once it reaches the age of six years.

Obesity can cause many health implications, most of which are the same as the ones we know about in humans as reducing life expectancy:

Heart problems

Joint problems

Arthritis

Skin problems

Diabetes mellitus

Decrease in immune function

Intolerance to heat and exercise

To a cat, gaining 1kg is the equivalent of an average human putting on almost 13kg or 2 stone!!! Imagine that and it’s not hard to see why keeping an eye on a pet’s weight is important.

The basis of any diet, human or animal, is to get the exercise up and the calorific intake down whilst maintaining satiation of hunger. Owners can work on these basics at home and the following advice may help. If they want more input, or previous attempts have been unsuccessful, then their Veterinary Clinic will be able to help and most of the weight reduction clinics are run by the practice nurses who may recommend a prescription diet which is high in fibre to reduce calorie intake whilst still allowing the animal to feel full.

It is advisable to feed 2-3 times during the day. This will, firstly, try and cut down on the amount of time the pet will be looking for food and, secondly, the increased amount of time spent digesting food will actually use calories. Try not to feed last thing at night. DO NOT exercise a dog (especially large breeds) an hour before or after food as this can cause a Gastric Torsion which has been the subject of a previous article. Avoid feeding table scraps and snacks and don’t leave food lying around. Healthy treats include 1-2 pieces of a weight control veterinary diet, a piece of carrot or apple, or a quarter of a rice cake. Practise rewarding the dog or with praise and attention rather than food!

It’s important that the dog is exercised every day, not just at weekends. Regular exercise will help him lose weight as well as keeping him healthier and happier. Extra long walks at the weekend can actually do more harm than good, especially if the dog suffers from arthritis. Walks can be made more demanding by using obstacles like benches, fallen trees, ditches and logs for the dog to jump over, crawl under or balance on; or by walking on difference surfaces such as the beach to increase resistance; or playing fetch or hide-and-seek games. Swimming, either on walks, or in hydrotherapy pools is excellent exercise.

Cats can be encouraged to exercise using toys to get the cat to get moving or playing ‘catch the light’ where a white light torch is shone on the walls for the cat to follow (do not use a red light laser as it can damage the cat’s eyes). Put the cat’s food in different places each day (including on top of tall furniture) and bring out the hunter in him! Alternatively, place food into biscuit dispensing balls so they can have a treat while they play.

And obviously….walking the dog more will lead to better human health too – so with that said I’m off to the gym!

Mark Maltman BVSc CertSAM CertVC MRCVS

Maltman Cosham Veterinary Clinic, Lyons Farm Estate, Lyons Road, Slinfold RH13 0QP (Due to open March 2011)

H: 01403 256840

M: 07540 983648

Unemployed? Redundant? How About Running Your Own Business

Redundant or unemployed? If you’re out of work and you like animals you could be running your own successful business surprisingly quickly.

Recent employment figures make grim reading and that means some people will consider setting up their own business – something that many people find daunting if they’ve never run a business before.

The Pets Homes and Gardens Company is helping people to start and run their own home and pet sitting businesses: read more about one successful licensee, Paradise Pets and Homes. We offer a support service to help you succeed, with a range of expert advice available from our team.

It’s a big decision – to run your own business so not, and the best decisions are made based on information. We have information available on our opportunity, so why not request a copy, have a chat with us (and with our licensees too) and take your time to evaluate what we offer.

We’re confident that if you love animals you could quickly be running a successful pet sitting business and we’re happy to talk to you about how we could make that happen.

Request more information.

Goal Setting – New Year and Always

Goal setting is mentioned a lot at this time of year, but all achievers know that goal setting is something that should be done throughout the year. In terms of business, this means knowing the business direction, measuring results, re-setting goals and re-measuring… and continuing to follow this path.

Goal setting starts with a dream. You could be running your own business within weeks. Then details are added. Writing the business plan. Ah, first problem, what if you’ve never written a business plan. Pete and Julie Maxted at The Pets Homes and Gardens Company can help with all that – they’ve been running successful businesses for years and can help you write your business plan for a successful pet and home sitting business.

Once the plan is complete, goals are all about taking action. Running your business. Pete and Julie are always on hand to answer questions and help you – a quick phone call or email can make the difference between pricing for success or failure .

Progress reviews are important too, so Pete and Julie will visit to help make sure your business planning is going well.

Finally, it’s about setting new goals. New goals for you and your business.

Read more about the unique franchise opportunity from The Pets, Homes and Gardens Company

New Business New Year

It’s almost the New Year – although Christmas isn’t over yet, you can be sure that many people will be considering their futures as they sit digesting lunch or taking a break from work.

The job market is still difficult but the number of small business start-ups is still healthy and perhaps now is the time to consider self-employment and running your own business.

Successful businesses understand and manage risk – the element that makes many people decide running a business is not for them. There are many more options than:

set up on your own

be employed

The Pets, Homes and Gardens Company offers a unique franchise opportunity. You run your own business, plus you have help and support from people who have not only succeeded before but are actively running the same business right now.

Before you take another mince pie, why not call Pete and ask for the information pack to be sent to you – you never know, next year could be your very best year ever. Call Pete on 01403 268282

Start Your Own Pet Sitting Business

You could start your own pet sitting business in time for Christmas. It’s September now, Christmas is 3 months away. Do you realise you could be earning extra income before then?

Sounds too good to be true? Well it isn’t.

The Pets Homes and Gardens Company offer a unique franchise opportunity – taking the best elements of franchising and licensing to provide you with a blueprint for success. How do we know this can work? Well, not only have we done it ourselves, but we now have successful licensees that have also done the same thing.

A Pet and Home sitting business is suitable for all kinds of people. It can be run part time or full time, it could be a small business or you could grow it bigger. Your choice, you’re in charge.

If you like animals then pet sitting is great fun. If you’re not so sure about the animals part, but don’t mind feeding fish, then this could be a business for you too.

Why not make it a Merry Christmas and a Prosperous New Year – investigate your options now and you could be a successful business owner by Christmas. Find out how by calling Peter or Julie on 01403 268282 today.

Know Any Animal Lovers?

The Pets Homes and Gardens Company helps animal lovers turn a hobby into a home business. Who do you know that might be interested?

Peter and Julie Maxted have taken one of their businesses and packaged it into a unique franchise opportunity that allows animal lovers to become pet and home sitters and small business owners.

The package covers everything needed to get started and to grow the business. This is how it works – choose your package, attend the training, follow the steps (with help from Peter & Julie as you need it), launch your business – and use the support available whenever you need it.

The best bit (it really is the best bit) is that an animal lover can work with animals and their owners – people just like them. How motivating to work in an area you love – that’s not work is it?

This business is ideal for everyone who likes animals – no matter what their circumstances. The business can be run full time or part time. It suits a student or someone who’s retired. It can provide an additional element of a portfolio career or be a new career.

If you know an animal lover, then call Peter today to discuss how you could benefit – as well as the animal lover!

Running Your Own Home Business

Running your own home business. How does that sound? Exciting? Daunting? If you felt both of those, then maybe running your own home business, pet and home sitting could be just right for you.

The Pets Homes and Gardens Company believes most people can successfully run a home business, but also realises that for a non-business person this might sound like an impossible dream.

Running your own home business doesn’t have to be a problem, although there are some things that will make life easier. Here are three tips from The Pets Homes and Gardens Company:

Keep clear records. Running your own home business is a serious undertaking. Records must be kept and they have to be kept properly. That’s the bad news! The good news is that it doesn’t have to be complicated. There’s a lot of help available to explain what records must be kept and what needs to be done when. If you’re lucky enough to be part of The Pets Homes and Gardens Company then that’s all included in the unique franchise opportunity.

Make sure your business has its own space. That doesn’t have to mean a huge office or a garden building or even a complete room. It does mean a space dedicated to the business. It could be as simple as a box or a drawer, somewhere to keep all the business records together in one place. Being organised is a key business skill and even the most disorganised person will find it easier to be organised if everything is in one place.

Enjoy it. There will be times when running your own home business seems like the wrong decision. There will be times when it’s just hard work. There will be times when other people tell you you’re doing the wrong thing. Set all that aside – and enjoy your business. You’re in charge, you’re never alone (you have help and support from The Pets Homes and Gardens Company as well as customers and suppliers), you really can sit down and enjoy the sunshine for 10 minutes between appointments, you can arrange your day to suit yourself –and you can be a successful business owner too. Marvellous!

If you’d like to explore the unique franchise opportunity on offer from The Pets Homes and Gardens Company, then call Peter Maxted now on 01403 268282 and find out how Peter and Julie have built their own successful businesses.

Home Sitting Business? It Doesn’t Mean Cleaning!

A home sitting business of your own doesn’t mean you have to clean up too. It means you’re looking after a house or property for someone who can’t do it at the moment. It means doing the little things that keep a house a homely place to be, ready for the owner to return.

Home sitting businesses are becoming more common in the UK. Whether it’s looking after somewhere whilst someone is on holiday or away for a short while (perhaps a hospital stay or a work assignment abroad).

Home sitting is important. People are emotionally attached to where they live and knowing their property is in safe hands is reassuring.

A typical home sitting business might include duties such as:

Arranging to receive parcels if a ‘you weren’t in’ card has been left

Turning on the hot water and heating just before the owners return

Moving the post from the floor to a table

Checking security – no broken windows, no broken tiles, no overflowing gutters, no water leaks – and calling a professional to arrange a visit if there’s a problem

Sending a text message to say all is well

If you understand the value of homes then you will appreciate the value of a home sitting business. If running your own enterprise appeals to you but you have some questions, then maybe running your own home sitting business makes sense. A home sitting business has a market as well as potential customers who will value the service you provide. The Pets Homes and Gardens Company’s unique franchise opportunity can provide support and answers to your questions – before you start your business and whilst you’re running your business every day.

The training and support provided by Peter and Julie cover all the main aspects of running a pet and home sitting business. You can choose the package option that best suits you and of course, tailored advice is always available too.

Request more information to take the first step to your new exciting life running a pet sitting business