HEALTH CONDITIONS

Dental hygiene for dogs and cats is essential for their overall health and well-being. Studies have found that an estimated 80% of dogs over the age of three have gum disease

The mouth is very important to animals as they spend their days not only eating and chewing but also …. grooming, removing insects from their coat and manipulating things. Each tooth has its function, like a piece of machinery, that is a reflection on its heritage as hunters and opportunistic feeders. The mouth has a good blood supply and contains many nerves making dental issues a potential problem. If your pet has a sore mouth you may be unaware as they are unable to tell you about it!

Sometimes there are no signs at all that your pet is suffering from dental problems, but typical signs can include:

• Plaque (a biofilm which contains bacteria) and tartar/calculus (yellow-brown hard mineralised plaque) build-up on teeth
• Reddened tender inflamed gums resulting from tartar build-up which irritates and puts pressure

Many of us love creating nutritious, wholesome food at home — and our dogs can enjoy the same care and attention through homemade treats. Calming recipes made with natural, herbal ingredients not only provide something delicious and nourishing, but can also help support anxious dogs who struggle to relax, especially during busy or noisy times like firework season. We’re delighted to share this recipe from Hedgerow Hounds for homemade calming treats using their Tranquil Blend — perfect for offering your dog a little extra comfort, naturally.

Make your own calming treats for when your dog needs a little more emotional support, perfect for a bedtime nibble.

You will need:

• 2 Level tablespoons of Hedgerow Hounds Tranquil blend or 2 chamomile teabags
• 250g Flour of choice and a little extra for dusting
• 125g Gluten free porridge oats
• 1 cup of Oat, Coconut or Goats milk
• 1 beaten egg (free range)
• 1 level teaspoon of Chia seeds
• Optional 1 level teaspoon of Almond nut butter (must be xylitol and palm

The holiday season can be a magical time – but for our pets, all that hustle and bustle can be a bit overwhelming. With changes to routine, unfamiliar guests, loud noises and tempting treats everywhere, it’s no surprise that many animals feel unsettled during Christmas.

Here are a few simple ways to help keep your pet calm, happy and safe this festive season:

1. Stick to your usual routine
Animals thrive on consistency. As much as possible, try to keep mealtimes, walks and bedtime close to your pet’s normal routine – even if your own schedule is a bit up in the air. This helps provide a sense of predictability and stability, which can be incredibly comforting.

2. Consider a calming supplement
Natural calming supplements can be a great way to take the edge off your pet’s anxiety during busy periods. Look for options containing ingredients like L-theanine, valerian, or ashwaghanda, and introduce them ahead of time so your pet can feel the benefits before the big day arrives.

3. Offer enrichment

Many dogs experience digestive problems — from gassiness and loose stools to itching, bad breath, or inconsistent appetite. Often, the root cause isn’t the food itself, but how well your dog is digesting it. That’s where digestive enzymes can help.

Digestive enzymes are a simple, powerful way to support your dog’s gut health, and can make all the difference for some dogs.

What Are Digestive Enzymes?

Digestive enzymes are proteins that help break down food so the body can absorb nutrients properly. There are several key types:

• Protease – breaks down proteins into amino acids 
  
  
• Amylase – breaks down carbohydrates into sugars
  
  
• Lipase – breaks down fats into fatty acids
  
  
• Cellulase – helps break down plant fibres
  
  
• Invertase – breaks down sugars
  
  
• Ox bile – not technically an enzyme, but aids fat digestion by emulsifying fats so lipase can work more effectively
  

Note: You may also see 'pancreatin' referred to as a digestive enzyme — this is just the combination of lipase, amylase and protease

The musculo-skeletal system is comprised primarily of bones, joints, tendons, ligaments, cartilage and muscles. It provides structural support enabling the body to move and these are the parts of the body that can suffer most from mechanical wear and tear, injury and inflammation (Allport, 2010).

Arthritis is the most common cause of chronic pain in pets, affecting as many as 20% of adult dogs (Dodds & Laverdure, 2015).

The typical signs of arthritis include: pain and stiffness (especially after rest), limited mobility such as being hesitant or have trouble jumping up or getting up stairs, running or walking and debilitation in severe or chronic cases. 

Osteoarthritis is a slowly progressive disease with different causes that finally come together on the equivalent pathogenic pathway that is typified by characteristic changes in cartilage, subchondral bone, and synovial membrane (Jones, 2014). 

Osteoarthritis is characterised by the deterioration of joint (articular) cartilage (the

With the summer sun making an appearance and a heatwave on the cards, it’s important to take extra precautions to keep your dog cool, comfortable and safe in the warmer months.

Unlike us, dogs don’t sweat all over — they regulate their body temperature mainly through panting and through the pads of their feet. This makes them much more prone to overheating. Dogs with darker coats, short noses (like pugs and bulldogs), long or thick fur, and those who are very young, elderly, or have underlying health conditions are particularly vulnerable.

Dogs can succumb to heat stroke without shade, ventilation and water as well as after vigorous exercise or over excitement. Here are our top tips for helping your dog stay safe in the heat:

1. Never Leave Dogs in Cars or Confined Spaces

We all know it, but it bears repeating: never leave your dog in a car on a warm day — even with the windows cracked or parked in the shade. Cars can turn into ovens frighteningly fast, with temperatures soaring above

Adored Beast are all about finding synergy, and their products were formulated to help the body in a multitude of ways. And often they do that by working together!
 
Adored Best are frequently asked which of their products work best together - and while they could go on for days about that, they have chosen 2 of their favourite perfect pairs to share.

Perfect Pair #1: For Gut Health & Inflammation

The first perfect pairing are The Wolf and Potent Sea for gut health and inflammation
 
Adored Beast Potent-Sea Omega-3 is a rich source of omega-3 for dogs and cats that does not harm the oceans. Sourced from micro-algae known for its high DHA and EPA content, Potent-Sea provides omega-3 fatty acids and other beneficial compounds that support the health of the whole body. Grown on land to protect the ocean and our planet. Free from solvents, pesticides, or heavy metals.
 
Adored Beast The Wolf is a species-appropriate pre and probiotic that features 3 probiotic lupine strains derived from wolf

Some hints to help pets stay safe and well in Summertime

Following the miserable Winter we have had, it’s hard to remember that we do sometimes get hot summery weather in the UK, but we do and here are a few hints to help pets stay safe and well in Summertime.

• Check regularly for fleas and ticks on the skin, and look out for adders when walking in country areas.
• If you are leaving your pet at home for several hours, make sure there is a cool room or area available – leave a fan on if necessary, and also plenty of water.
• If you are leaving your pet outdoors for any length of time, ensure shade (and water) are available.
• Take a bottle of water and a drinking bowl with you if you are taking your dog out for long walks or on car journeys and offer water regularly.
• If you walk your dog regularly on pavements, check for sore pads in hot weather.
• Above all, don’t ever leave your dog in a car on a warm day, even if not in direct sunshine.

As the weather gets warmer there are several Diet’Dog

Proflax Feline Fine - The Ultimate Kidney Support for Cats 

Proflax are back to share more details on their Feline Fine, the all-in-one salmon oil based supplement that’s perfect for supporting your cat’s health - specifically their kidneys. If you have a senior cat or one who may be showing signs of kidney stress, Feline Fine is just what they need.

Why Renal Health is So Important for Cats

Kidney health is a major concern for cats owners, especially as they age. The kidneys are responsible for filtering waste from the blood, regulating fluids, and balancing important minerals and electrolytes. As cats get older, their kidneys can become less efficient, leading to conditions like chronic kidney disease (CKD), which can cause symptoms such as:

• Increased thirst and urination
• Reduced appetite or weight loss
• Lethargy and weakness
• Vomiting and dehydration

Managing kidney health in cats is essential as it's such a common ailment. Feline Fine can help support your their kidney function, potentially