While some scientists attempt to send the first rocket to Mars, others are doing more important things like finding out why cats love cardboard boxes so much.
Cat owners across the country probably all know the feeling of dismay when you’ve gone out and purchased a good quality cat bed, only to find your feline friend curled up in that empty microwave box you’ve been meaning to take out to the recycle bin.
The reason why your cat loves to squeeze into those oh-so-comfortable, tight spaces has remained one of life’s greatest mysteries – until now.
Research has found that the main reason why cats seek out cardboard boxes, or any confined space for that matter, is because it gives them a sense of protection and safety from ‘predators’.
Domestic cats show many instinctive traits that match their wild feline ancestors – so it only seems logical in their minds to find a hidden place to take their 20-hour nap.
It has also been noted that cats may gravitate to small confined spaces to cope with any environmental changes or stressors.
A study was performed on 19 cats where half were given access to confined spaces, and the other half weren’t. Results found stress levels decreased significantly in the cats that were able to relax in boxes.
Another reason behind the ‘magnetic’ force the draws your cat to cardboard boxes or confined spaces, could be because they are trying to avoid unwanted attention – particularly if they know they are in trouble.
According to ‘The Domestic Cat: The Biology of its Behaviour’, cats don’t have very good conflict resolution strategies, so running and hiding is a copying mechanism for this.
And it’s not just cardboard boxes. Cats appear to fit themselves into any enclosed space. This includes drawers, vases, shoes and even kettles.
Cat logic: If I fit, I sit.
Let us know in the comments below where your cat loves to nap!
Did you know talking to your pet is good for your health? Find out why here.
Let us know in the comments below where your cat loves to nap!
Did you know talking to your pet is good for your health? Find out why here.
‘Tis the season for family, friends and lots of delicious food – but with this also comes the possibility of distress for your fur-friends.
Pets won’t be so jolly if they get their paws on some chicken bones, unattended alcohol, or perhaps a not so pet friendly pudding.
Let us take the stress out of your festive season with Dr Mark's infographic on the 6 Common Christmas Foods NOT to Feed Your Pet – inclusive of symptoms your pet may show if they have eaten a certain dangerous item, and also how each food can affect your pet’s long-term health and well-being.
Number one off the rank, Turkey & Chicken Bones.
If you decide to allow your pet a little taste of turkey or chicken, make sure it’s boneless and well-cooked. Don’t offer raw or under cooked meat as it may contain salmonella bacteria…
Want to see the full version of Dr Mark’s 6 Christmas Foods NOT to Feed Your Pet? Click here to view our infographic.
Nail trimming is an important task that keeps your dog’s nails short and healthy, and also keeps your floors and furniture safe from snags and scratches.
Long nails can break and bleed, or even grow back into the paw and cause pain. So it’s really important as a pet owner to ensure your dog’s nails are maintained.
Often people seek veterinary help to trim their pet’s nails, however wouldn’t it be nice to save a trip to the vet and do them yourself at home?
Discover Dr Mark’s simple method, along with a few handy tips on trimming your dog’s nails.
So first and foremost, to help make the experience positive, grab some treats and don’t feel like you need to trim all the nails at once.
Start with one, reward, and come back later. Particularly if you or your pet is nervous.
Also, try pick a time when your dog is relaxing. If they’re in the mood to play, wait until they’re lounging before approaching them.
Secondly, there are many different types of nail trimmers. It is recommended buying a good quality pair that are sharp and designed for the correct size of dog.
A product such as the Medium GripSoft Deluxe Dog Nail Clipper is suitable for small and medium dogs, and is also available in a larger size that is suitable for medium and large dogs.
This tool is great for beginners – it has a soft grip handle and cutting guard that makes nail trimming safe and easy.
So a good way to start is by gently touching your dog’s paw, also known as paw handling. If they don’t pull away or resist, start massaging the paw and gently pressing on their nails.
Depending on your dog’s age and temperament, it may take a few sessions before they’re used to paw handling.
Now, onto how to trim the nails. Starting with the back legs, one technique that helps is to hold the handle of the nail trimmers flat against the toe pad and cut across the nail, so that the nail will sit just above the ground.
This technique is good if you are worried about cutting the nails too short.
And if you want to get a shorter cut than the previous method, aim to cut at a 45° angle, after visualising the quick.
The quick is the pink area within the nail where the nerves and blood vessels are, similar to the area underneath our nails.
You also don’t want to forget the dewclaws. Not all dogs have them but if they do they will be located on the inside of the leg, just above the ‘wrist’.
So with a lot of praise, a few treats and the right tool, trimming your dog’s nails can be a quick and simple process for you and your pet.
We hope this advice has been helpful for you, if you’d like to learn more pet health information visit VetShopAustralia.com.au or let us know on our Facebook Page what you’d like to know more about.
Dr Mark's Top 10 Things Your Dog Should NOT Eat
- November 15, 2016
- By VetShop
- 0 Comments
Over the years I practised veterinary medicine, I noticed that there was a repeated trend in the type of foreign bodies that I had to remove from the bowels of our canine friends.
It may be useful for pet owners to know what the ten worst offenders are. Some of the items are often fed to dogs in the common belief that they are harmless, others the dogs themselves tend to find and ingest without their owner’s knowledge.
Here are my Ten Worst Offenders:
- Cooked bones (chop bones, ham bones, etc)
- Stones and rocks (gravel)
- Corn Cobs
- Fish hooks
- Mango Seeds & Avocado seeds
- Super Balls
- Macadamia Nuts
- Rubber bits – sink plugs, caps of shock absorbers etc
- Plastic bags
- String (baling twine, wool & fishing line etc)
Things that I have not removed out of animals but which many of my associates have had to remove are:
- Hardware such as screws and nails
- Cloth – One of my colleges removed a shirt out of the stomach of a dog.
- Corks
Take care with all of the above items and help prevent major abdominal surgery for your beloved pets!
Interested in a more detailed version of what foods are safe and unsafe for your dog, click here for more.
7 Things You Might Not Know But Should Be Doing to Care for an Old Dog
- November 08, 2016
- By VetShop
- 0 Comments
How do you know when to consider your dog as a senior?
Is it when they turn a certain age? Or is it when their hair starts going a little grey?
To answer the question, it really just depends.
In general, bigger dog breeds will age and show signs of ageing faster than smaller breed dogs.
For example, a Great Dane is considered to be a senior by roughly 5-6 years old, a Golden Retriever could be considered senior by 8-10 years, and small dogs like a Chihuahua are considered a senior around the age of 10-11.
Aside from age, dogs can also show a number of signs that they are ageing. These may include:
- Decrease in energy levels
- Arthritis and stiffening of joints
- Not jumping up or down surfaces like they use to e.g. the couch, stairs etc.
- Rougher and thinner coat with bald patches and white hairs
- Deafness, revealed by failure to respond to commands
- Tooth and gum conditions
- Warts, fatty lumps and even tumours may appear (ensure to check these with your vet)
- Excessive thirst and frequent and uncontrolled urination
- Confusion or failure to recognise surroundings
- Decreased appetite
- Depression, disobedience and occasional destructive behaviour
- A hazy, bluish cast over the eyes (should not affect eyesight unless cataracts are formed)
- A tendency to sleep more during the day but sleep less at night. Some dogs may pace around the house at night due to sore joints, senility or even loneliness
- Weight gain
Although you don’t want it to, the day will come when you start spotting the signs of your dog ageing. However this does not mean you have to wrap your fur-friend in cotton wool and start to worry.
You may just need to make a few small adjustments to your usual routine, and take a few extra precautions. To help you out, we’ve gathered the top 7 most important things you should be doing to care for an old dog.
1. Proper Medical Care
Regular check-ups are very important for older dogs.
Keep note of any new or unusual symptoms your dog may be showing and report them to your vet.
It's also crucial that you maintain your dog’s regular flea & tick, heartworm and worm protection, as older dogs can be more susceptible to disease.
And if your dog has been diagnosed with a certain medical condition, for example Arthritis, you really want to stay on top of their medication schedule, to ensure your fur-friend is happy and comfortable as can be.
If your pet requires prescription medication, visit PetScripts.com.au, and shop for over 700 high quality and discount products.
2. Steady Exercise
Obesity and arthritis are the top two most common problems experienced by older dogs, so regular exercise is very important.
Even a brisk walk around the block, or play time in the backyard is great for keeping their joints moving.
Please note, if your dog has been diagnosed with arthritis, consult your vet before beginning an exercise routine.
3. Daily Routine
A consistent and daily routine is something everyone can benefit from, and will help your dog’s physical, mental and emotional health.
Even if it’s as simple as feeding at the same time, regular afternoon walks, grooming at night etc.
Things for them to look forward to in a sense.
4. Healthy Skin & Coat
Ensuring a regular skin and coat routine for your older dog is not only going to help their external appearance, but it’s going to make them feel great on the inside too.
Try bathing your older dog every 2-3 weeks with a soothing shampoo such as Aloveen Oatmeal Shampoo, as this will be gentle on their skin and leave their fur smelling great and feeling silky smooth.
And for a little extra support, a supplement such as PAW Coat, Skin & Nail Chews that contains the essential nutrients silica and zinc, along with chia and flaxseeds, will really help improve and maintain your dog’s appearance.
5. Healthy Teeth & Gums
Older dogs are more prone to gum disease and tartar build-up, so a regular dental routine is very important.
Dental treats are a simple and low-cost solution to keep your dog’s pearly whites shinning bright.
A product such as Greenies Dental Treats will provide your dog with complete oral care when fed daily. Plus, the treats will help discourage tartar build up and plaque, and are also a great solution for freshening your dog’s breath.
6. Emotional Support
As your dog ages, it’s important to be sensitive to what they are going through, and understand that a lot of psychological changes are taking place.
Daily care for your older pet may require a little more patience on your part.
Your loving care and commitment will really help and make for a positive quality of life for your senior fur-friend.
7. Specific Nutrition
Understanding the changing nutritional needs of your senior dogs is one of the most important things for you to consider.
Generally, dogs of seven years and older will start to take life a little easier, and as a result, their nutritional needs and requirements will need to adjust to this new way of life.
Senior dogs are less active and have a slower metabolism, so fewer calories are required.
This does not mean lesser quality, as easy-to-digest protein and nutrients now become more important than ever.
The simplest way to ensure you are providing your dog with everything they need to thrive, is to feed them with specifically formulated senior diet dog food. Hill’s Science Diet, Advance or Royal Canin would be a great option.
Overall, caring for your older dog is just like caring for any aged dog. Snuggle up, spend quality time together, and appreciate every moment you pup has to give.
Do you have any tips for providing extra care for your older dog? Let us know on our Facebook page or in the comments.
Does Your Dog Stare at You While They Poop?
- October 20, 2016
- By VetShop
- 0 Comments
To all the dog owners out there, have you ever caught your dog staring at you while they poop?
Or perhaps they shuffle around mid-deed, leaving a trail?
Or maybe they turn in circles for what seems like forever?
Whatever your fur-friend does, there’s actually a very good reason for it.
As you’re probably already aware, dogs are fascinating beings, and full of complex emotions and psychology.
Have a read of the reasons behind you dog’s strange toilet habits, and discover how these rituals came about.
The Stare
For us humans, doing our business is generally not a time when we want to lock eyes with someone.
But dogs don’t worry about things like that.
In fact, they’re not staring at you to ask for privacy, their actually doing quite the opposite.
In the wild, a defecating animal is seen as vulnerable.
So by staring at you, a member of their pack, your dog is making sure that you’re keeping watch for any potential threats.
And even more interestingly, they are watching your body movements for any signs of approaching danger.
So if your dog is staring at you, don’t feel awkward. It means they trust you!
And for those owners whose dogs sit with you while you’re in the bathroom. They’re simply returning the favour.
The Stroll
If your dog decides mid-poop that it’s time for a stroll, it’s actually for a very good reason.
Dogs will sometimes take a few steps as motion aids with the passage of stool.
And other times, it’s just because there’s a reallllly interesting smell a few inches away.
If you notice your dog scooting after their business, they may be trying to clean off any excess.
However, it could also mean that they have worms, or the glands in that region need to be expressed.
If you noticed this happening, talk to your vet immediately.
The Kick
Some dogs after finishing up their business, like to kick up their back feet, along with dirt, grass, poo and anything else in the way.
This is generally for two reasons.
The first being them marking their territory by scraping their feet along the ground.
And secondly, surprisingly, this is actually their attempt at cleaning up.
Kicking away their waste like this is similar to how cats kick litter over their poo at home.
However, both species attempts really aren’t that helpful in the cleaning up region…
The Decision
The decision, or the indecision?
We’re sure you’ve all seen your dog sniff, spin and do laps of the area before they decide exactly where to go.
Well, dogs don’t just poop out of need, but also to mark their territory.
It’s sort of like the canine equivalent of humans leaving notes or graffiti to show others where they’ve been.
So if your dog does this, it’s simply because they’re staking out the perfect place where their ‘information’ is sure to be noticed.
The Compass
You may or may not have heard of this one before.
Many dogs while doing their business, will align their bodies along the north-south axis, with a preference of facing north.
This shows that dogs might be magneto-sensitive, or sensitive to the Earth’s magnetic field.
However, will only do so when the magnetic field is calm.
So if you’re even in need of a compass, just wait for pooch to relieve themselves, and you’re good to go.
Overall, whatever way your dog chooses to do their business, just know it’s part of them being who they are.
Does your dog have any funny habits? Let us know in the comments below.
And, be sure to share this with your friends, who also might have a pooch with a strange toilet time habit!
5 Tips for Pet Owners Who Rent
- October 13, 2016
- By VetShop
- 0 Comments
A large stepping stone many people are faced with when it comes to being a pet owner and renting a property, is that the two are not always compatible.
Renting pet owners are often faced with the challenge of not only finding a landlord who will allow pets, but also a home that is suitable for their fur-friends.
So how does a pet owner find and negotiate a suitable property?
To help you out, we’ve gathered our top 5 tips to securing the perfect home for your pet-family.
1. Enquire
Often when people search a property listing that does not mention pets, they conclude that pets are not allowed.
However, this may not always be the case.
Make a move and enquire about the possibility of adding your fur-friend in the contract.
The answer may turn out to be a no, but it could also be a yes – so it’s better to just ask!
2. Sweeten The Deal
If you’re eager to get the ball rolling, offering to pay extra rent to cover your pet, might just seal the deal.
Even if it’s just an additional $5 a week.
Landlords and property manager who see tenants that are willing to make an extra effort, may be more open to compromising.
Once again, you will never know unless you just ask.
3. Keep Thorough Records
More often than not, landlords will avoid circumstances that may result in their property being damaged, particularly in new homes.
This is why the few that do allow pets to live with their tenants, ask for various information, references and pet records.
To make things easier and more efficient if this question does arise, prepare a little documentation file.
In your file include documents such as vaccination certificates, health and vet records and any other relevant information.
You could even write a reference for your pet that contains information such as age, breed, temperament, type of coat etc.
4. Consider Your Pet’s-Eye View
An important factor that should not be overlooked, is to ensure that the home you pick is appropriate for the entire family.
For instance, dogs should have plenty of room to move around, preferably somewhere with grass, and areas to laze with good airflow and ventilation.
So a one-bedroom apartment with no yard, probably isn’t the best option.
Take your time, and don’t feel like you have to say yes if you get approved somewhere that isn’t quite right.
Remember, your family’s well-being is what matters most.
5. Commit to a Clean
While you’re already obligated to clean a property when you depart, offering to remove all traces of your pet’s presence might just get you over the line.
Put in writing that you will deep clean the carpets, deodorise the home, and importantly, perform consistent flea treatments over the duration of your stay.
We hope these tips help! If you’d like to read more articles like this, sign up to our monthly newsletter here.
Why Talking To Your Pet Is Good For Your Health
- October 05, 2016
- By VetShop
- 0 Comments
Hands up if you talk to your pet?
And if you’re anything like us at VetShopAustralia, it’s each and every day, all day long.
We love telling them about our day, what we’ve been up to, and even how we feel.
Whilst this may sound a little strange to those without pets, talking to pets is actually very common.
But did you know talking to your pet is good for your health?
“The average dog can understand around 200 words”
Your Pet Knows How You’re Feeling
Here’s a fun fact, although we talk to people using words, 80% of our communication is actually via our body language.
The average dog can understand up to 200 words, but won’t really understand spoken language.
They can however, pick up on our emotions, and are able to sense how we’re feeling.
Kind of like a 6th sense.
Some dogs will lay their head on your lap when you’re upset for example, whilst your cat may often sit with you when you’re feeling lonely or unwell (even if they don’t sit with you normally).
So it doesn’t really matter what you say to them, but rather how you express it.
If you’re one to talk regularly to your pet, he or she is going to know you inside out, which is a really special bond to have with your fur friend.
“Your pet senses how much you love them by the way you talk to them”
Talking to Your Pet Is Good for BOTH of You
We see pets as family, and genuine friends that we can bare our souls to – secrets are always safe, and an animal will never judge us… or do they?
But did you know having a good old yarn with your fur friend is actually good for your mental health?
Taking to pet’s and interacting with them regularly can lower stress levels, increase productiveness and overall just make you feel good!
That’s why at VetShopAustralia, we bring our furry pals to work with us. For more information, click here.
Now as mentioned earlier, pets can sense how your feeling; and they can also sense how you feel towards them.
A lot of you and your pet’s communication is actually expressed through intonation.
For example, your dog may associate a high, happy voice with positivity and excitement, a neutral, calming voice with reassurance, and a low, deep voice with negativity or disapproval.
Next time you talk to your pet, think about your tone and body language and see how they respond.
“Your pet actually has a lot to say in return”
You Learn Your Pet’s Language Too
Although animals are good at picking up on much of what we say, they still have their own way of communication too.
Start paying greater attention, and you’ll notice that your pet has quite a lot to say in return when you talk to them.
Try immerse yourself in the body language of your cat, dog, bunny or any pet for that matter, and you’ll soon realise there’s a whole new form of communication to discover.
Overall, the more you work on understanding each other, the stronger your bond will be and the happier and healthy you both will feel!
Do you know how to break up a dog fight? Learn the skills and protect your pet here.
Do you know how to break up a dog fight? Learn the skills and protect your pet here.
Can My Dog Eat That? Dr Mark's Dog Food Safety Guide
- September 15, 2016
- By VetShop
- 0 Comments
In today's society we as humans regularly find ourselves thinking about our health, and what foods we should and shouldn’t be putting into our bodies.
Here's one for you, does the thought ever cross you mind about what is and isn't ok for your dog to eat?
What we need to remember is that a dog's digestive systems is completely different to ours, and it may seem logical to think if a certain food is healthy for us, then is must be for our fur friends too.
However, this is simply not the case.
Whether it's fruits, veggies, or your brand new couch, most dogs will devour pretty much anything they can get their paws onto.
But what really is safe for your dog to eat?
And what foods can actually pose a toxic threat for dogs?
To give you a helping paw and take the guess work out for you, VetShopAustralia's Dr Mark has created the ultimate Dog Food Safety Guide.
But first, let's start with a little quiz...
Which three foods pictured below are a big no no for dogs?
Find out the answers plus access the complete guide here.
Here's one for you, does the thought ever cross you mind about what is and isn't ok for your dog to eat?
What we need to remember is that a dog's digestive systems is completely different to ours, and it may seem logical to think if a certain food is healthy for us, then is must be for our fur friends too.
However, this is simply not the case.
Whether it's fruits, veggies, or your brand new couch, most dogs will devour pretty much anything they can get their paws onto.
But what really is safe for your dog to eat?
And what foods can actually pose a toxic threat for dogs?
To give you a helping paw and take the guess work out for you, VetShopAustralia's Dr Mark has created the ultimate Dog Food Safety Guide.
But first, let's start with a little quiz...
Which three foods pictured below are a big no no for dogs?
Find out the answers plus access the complete guide here.
As humans, breaking up a dog fight is something we hope to never have to do. Being a good pet owner, you may have the best behaved and trained pooch around, however not all dogs get along – even the good ones. Instinct is a very powerful thing in animals, so simply telling your dog to ‘stop’ or ‘come here’ nine times out of ten is not going to work. They no longer hear you as their loving loyal owner, but instead their only focus in that very moment is to attack – no matter who it might be at.
It cannot be stressed enough that you should never, ever reach into the chaos and grab your dog away. This manoeuvre is rather going to leave you injured than breaking up the clash. Instead, there are a two effective techniques that will ensure everyone involved walks away serious-injury free.
Technique 1: Two-person breakup
This technique will be effective if you have two people who are able to break the fight up together.
- At the same time each grab a dog’s back legs
- Raise them up, similar to how you would lift a wheelbarrow
- Back both dogs away slowly, continuing to hold their legs in the air (this will prevent them from reaching around and biting you)
- Once the dogs are safely separated, try hold them securely until they are calm and face them away from the other dog if possible
Technique 2: One-person breakup
This technique can be used if you are alone, however proceed with caution.
- Grab a free leash or a piece of rope
- Slowly approach the more aggressive dog
- Once you are close enough, loop the leash around their middle section, you want to catch them just in front of their back legs
- Slip the free end of the leash through its looped handle and pull tight
- Once fastened, slowly pull the dog backward until you find something to fasten them to, such as a telephone pole or fence post
- Now shift your focus to the second dog and grab them from behind using the “wheelbarrow” technique described above
- Again, pull them away at least 5 metres and restrain until the dogs are calm or help arrives
Whether it’s big dogs or small dogs, these techniques will work the same. Try not to scream or yell unless it’s calling for help, and most importantly, be quick, stay mindfully aware, and remain calm and assertive.
Ever wondered if you could buy discount pet prescriptions online? Well now you can at PetScripts.com.au. For more information, click here.
Ever wondered if you could buy discount pet prescriptions online? Well now you can at PetScripts.com.au. For more information, click here.
For a limited time only get a FREE Movie Ticket with any Frontline Plus 6 pack purchase when you shop at VetShopAustralia.com.au. Protect your pet from fleas and ticks plus treat yourself today!
Don't Forget Cupcake Day for the RSPCA is Next Monday!
- August 08, 2016
- By VetShop
- 0 Comments
Cupcake Day for the RSPCA is all about baking, eating and most importantly, raising funds for animals in need. If you haven't already registered to be a part of this special day, you can do so by clicking here. But be quick! Cupcake Day for the RSPCA is officially being held next Monday the 15th of August.
If you want to get extra creative this Cupcake Day, why not bake some pet-friendly treats too! VetShopAustralia's Dr Mark has two deliciously pawesome cupcake recipes that will have your pooches and kitties begging for more. For Dr Mark's dog-friendly cupcake recipe click here, and for his cat-friendly cupcake recipe click here.
If you'd like to support the VetShopAustralia Cupcake team you can do so by clicking here. And if you're a Sunshine Coast local, don't forget that you can come see us at our Forest Glen warehouse (5/42 Owen Creek Road; down the road from Kunara Organic Marketplace) to donate in person and try one of our delicious cupcakes! Gluten-free and Vegan options will be available.
We can't wait to see you then!
The RSPCA, loving of all creatures great and small, and the VetShopAustralia team are very excited to announce the all new RSPCA Animal Health Products Range. The range currently includes an Allwormer for Dogs, an Allwormer for Cats and a Heartworm for Dogs.
Dr Mark and the VetShopAustralia team are delighted to be working alongside the RSPCA to not only protect your pets at home from nasty parasites, but also to help rescue, re-home and re-habilitate shelter animals.The RSPCA’s history dates back to 1871, when a public meeting to discuss the ill treatment of horses in Victoria led to the formation of Australia’s first Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals. Following the establishment of a Society in Victoria, other states soon followed. Since the RSPCA’s initial movement, the organisation has fought against animal cruelty, and witnessed a dramatic and positive change in the way animals are treated.
As a charity, the RSPCA relies on donations and lots of community support. The organisation holds a number of annual events that are integral to raising much needed funds to enable them to continue caring for animals in need. Over the years VetShopAustralia has been highly involved in the RSPCA’s fundraising events, in particular the Million Paws Walk and Cupcake Day.
The RSPCA Cupcake day is a fantastic excuse to get family, friends and workmates together to eat delicious cupcakes. But, more importantly, it’s an opportunity to raise much needed funds for the many abandoned and injured animals who come into the RSPCA’s care each and every day. Cupcake Day is being held on Monday the 15th of August this year, and the VetShopAustralia team are looking forward to putting their cupcake making skills to the test for another year round.
 |
| Team VetShopAustlia's treats from last years Cupcake Day. |
If you’re a Sunshine Coast local, pop in and see us at our Forest Glen warehouse (5/42 Owen Creek Road; down the road from Kunara Organic Marketplace) to donate in person and support this amazing cause. If you can’t make it down to us and would still like to make a donation to the VetShopAustralia team, you can do so by clicking here.
If you’re interested in how to host your own cupcake party, register now for FREE and you’ll receive and awesome Cupcake Day Host kit.
Want to learn more about the RSPCA range of Heartwormers and All Wormers for cats and dogs then click here.
Looking for Prescription Products? Visit PetScripts.com.au!
- July 29, 2016
- By VetShop
- 0 Comments
Dr Mark knew that many Australian pet owners just like you wanted to be able to buy prescription pet medicines online, because of the convenience that gives and the cost savings an online retailer could pass on. So he developed PetScripts to bring Australian pet owners and independent Dispensing Pharmacists together.
We do however know that it's not all about cost and convenience, Dr Mark, our independent Dispensing Pharmacists and the rest of our team understand that ordering medicines for your pet online requires a high level of trust from you, and we take that trust very very seriously. We love our pets as much as you do, and we would never take a risk on their welfare and we know you wouldn't either.
Dr Mark insists that the PetScripts team must never cut corners or take risks and we must do everything we can to help you ensure your pets have the medicines they need at an affordable price.
When using PetScripts, you shop with the comfort and security of our 5 Star Promise:
- All products are sourced domestically and are registered with the Australian Government
- We never sell counterfeit or foreign registered stock
- All orders are checked and dispensed by registered Australian Pharmacists
- We're working every day to bring you the lowest prices and the best savings
- We're constantly focusing and investing on customer service and speed of delivery
If your pet requires prescription medication, visit PetScripts.com.au today and shop over 700 high quality and affordable products.
Take Your Dog to Work Day - June 24th 2016
- June 21, 2016
- By VetShop
- 0 Comments
Here at VetShopAustralia, every day is bring your pet to work day. However, did you know there is an annual day recognised worldwide for bringing your pet to work? How cool!
Take Your Dog to Work Day will take place this Friday the 24th of June 2016 in Australia and all around the world.
A little history on how this day all came about, it was first celebrated in 1996 in the United Kingdom and became popular in the United States in 1999. Take Your Dog to Work Day not only lets pet owners celebrate the bond and companionship they share with their pets, but also brings greater awareness to adopting from local shelters and rescue groups.
Studies have proved that bringing your dog, or cat to work can provide a number of physical and mental health benefits, increase activity and staff productiveness, and overall create a positive and fun work environment.
To ensure your Take Your Dog to Work Day runs smoothly this Friday, Dr Mark has given his Top 5 Tips for Bringing Pets to Work.
Tip One: Training
Ensure your pet is suitably trained and well socialised before bringing into work. Set aside time during the day for toilet breaks, however it’s recommended to also provide training pads to avoid accidents. Use positive reinforcement when your pet shows good behaviour, including whenever they do the toilet in the correct place. This will help reduce the likelihood of your pet playing up or toileting in the wrong area.
Tip Two: Comfort
Allow your pet some free time when you arrive in the morning. This will give them time to get to know their surroundings and say hello to other co-workers. Bring along your pet’s favourite blanket, bed, and toys to help them feel comfortable in the new environment. Keep these items by your desk to encourage your pet to stay by your side and avoid causing disruption to other workers.
Tip Three: Environment
Consider if your workplace is a safe environment before bringing your pet in. Is there any hazardous machinery, substances or open flames? If so maybe your workplace is not suitable for bringing in your pet. Also be aware of security and if your pet could escape easily, and if so is there a busy road outside. Above all, your pet’s safety is what matters most.
Tip Four: Cleaning
If you or other staff members are regularly bringing your pets to work, ensure the office is equip with relevant cleaning products, such as paper towels and disinfectant. If your pet does toilet in the office, it’s always best to display no reaction. Clean the area thoroughly to remove any scent, as this will reduce the likelihood of the pet doing it in that spot again.
Tip Five: Vaccinated
Before bringing your pet to work, it’s important to ensure their vaccinations are up to date and that they are free from any diseases or illnesses that could spread to other animals. Also consider the risk of any hidden parasites that may be residing at your workplace and administer protection accordingly. This will allow for a happy and healthy environment for all.
Bonus Tip: How To Convince Your Boss
Unsure if your boss will allow you to bring your pet to work this Friday? Click here to read co-founder of VetShopAustralia, Steven Perissinotto's LinkedIn article featuring his promise to write a hand written note to every boss who allows their staff to bring their dog in to work on Take Your Dog to Work Day.
PLUS, check out our short video for a look at some of the VetShopAustralia dogs at work.
Unsure if your boss will allow you to bring your pet to work this Friday? Click here to read co-founder of VetShopAustralia, Steven Perissinotto's LinkedIn article featuring his promise to write a hand written note to every boss who allows their staff to bring their dog in to work on Take Your Dog to Work Day.
PLUS, check out our short video for a look at some of the VetShopAustralia dogs at work.
StarTrack ORIAS People's Choice Award Voting Results...
- June 20, 2016
- By VetShop
- 0 Comments
Since 2010, StarTrack Online Retailer Industry Awards (ORIAS) has celebrated the excellence of Australasia’s dynamic and innovative multichannel and online retailing visionaries. One of the categories within the StarTrack ORIAS is the People’s Choice Award, where the voting is handed over to the public to decide who they think is a leading retailer in the country.
The StarTrack ORIAS People’s Choice Award voting has wrapped up for another year, and announced that 2016 was the biggest year yet! With hundreds of merchants nominated this year, and an overwhelming number of votes counted meant that a top 10 list was simply not enough to recognise all there is to love about Australia’s online retailers. So for the first time ever the StarTrack ORIAS People’s Choice Award announced a Top 100!
Dr Mark and the VetShopAustralia team are thrilled to announced that we have been voted as one of Australia’s Top 100 retailers, and want to thank all who took the time to vote for us.
If you'd like to see who else made the StarTrack ORIAS People's Choice Award Top 100, click here.
