As reported in vet times, Margot, a miniature dachshund, had a narrow escape after suffering potentially fatal vitamin D toxicity by devouring a tube of ointment for humans. Margot ingested Dovonex®, a dermal treatment for psoriasis in humans that contains the synthetic vitamin D3 analogue, calcipotriol. Margot presented with severe hypercalcaemia [...]

With gyms reopening and summer holidays on the horizon, many of us are trying to get into shape with workouts and dietary supplements. There are a wide range of dietary supplements available, some of which will have a medical validity and some will be taken as a way of aiding [...]

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 toxic effects which may worsen the animal’s condition and can also potentially be fatal. In addition, in many cases, [...]

We have had several cases reported to us where surgical spirit has accidentally been put into a dental machine rather than purified water resulting in often serious clinical signs.  The error seems to occur because the bottles of both products are identical.  The VPIS are currently working with manufacturers to [...]

A recent letter in JAVMA has suggested that tartaric acid is the cause of acute kidney injury in dogs (Wegenast C. Meadows I, Anderson R, Southard T. JAVMA. 2021;258(1):706-707). The evidence provided includes cases of renal failure in dogs that have eaten cream of tartar (potassium bitartrate); one dog had [...]

Spring is coming and that means adders will become active. We have already received our first enquiries. If you live in an adder rich area now is the time to start thinking about your antivenom stock. Information is on our website.

We have seen a rise in enquiries involving dispensing or administration errors, which is likely due to the increased pressure everyone in practice is currently facing. It is important to note that for some medications, we would not expect serious effects from an overdose; however, with others there is a [...]

We have recently had a few cases involving oak processionary moth (OPM) caterpillars. OPM caterpillars have hairs containing toxic compounds that irritate the eyes and mouth. Inquisitive pets that come into contact with the caterpillars or their nests may develop excessive drooling, swollen tongue, conjunctivitis, gagging, vomiting, difficulty breathing or [...]