We have recently experienced an increase in cases where owners have given their pets salt water or hydrogen peroxide in an effort to make their pet vomit. These methods can cause adverse or toxic effects which may worsen the animal’s condition and can also potentially be fatal. In addition, in [...]

Following a number of recent reports of confirmed and suspected appearances of blue-green algae on lakes and ponds around the UK, we would like to remind all dog owners to be vigilant when walking their dogs around water. Blue-green algae is most common in stagnant fresh water such as lakes [...]

We receive a lot of enquiries about animals ingesting mushrooms whilst out on a walk or that have appeared in the garden. There are thousands of fungi species in the UK and reliable and accurate identification relies on expert knowledge. We work with field mycologists who assist us in identification of [...]

There are an increasing number of cannabis products on the market, and there can be confusion about the names of the various types of extracts. Different strains of cannabis plants contain varying quantities of two main active compounds: tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) which is psychoactive and cannabidiol (CBD) which is non-psychoactive. Hemp [...]

With lots of us getting our gardens ready for spring we have noticed a rise in enquiries involving animals exposed to patio cleaners. The ingredients of these cleaners can differ; however, most contain benzalkonium chloride (BAC), which is also found in many household disinfectants. Exposure most commonly occurs when the product [...]

The upcoming Easter celebrations mean that there may be many chocolate eggs and treats to tempt pets. Chocolate poisoning in dogs is one of the most common enquiries received by the VPIS, with the severity of the poisoning being influenced by the amount eaten, and the type of chocolate (milk [...]

We receive many enquiries regarding the ingestion of daffodil bulbs and flowers (Narcissus species) during the Spring months, and although most cases result in only mild signs, serious effects can occur occasionally. All parts of the plant contain alkaloids and glycosides, although they are most concentrated in the bulb; the exact [...]

In spring 2021, increasing numbers of cats presenting with severe pancytopenia were noted in United Kingdom. An article published in the Journal of Veterinary Internal Medicine describes the process and outcome of the investigation performed into this outbreak. Five hundred and eighty cats presented to 378 veterinary practices were included [...]

Spring is coming and that means adders will become active. We have already received our first enquiries about adder bites. The adder (Vipera berus berus) is the only venomous snake native to the UK, and is also found across northern Europe. It is a protected species in the UK. Adders [...]