Category: Advice

  • Stomach cancer in dogs

    Bo face 1 400
    Living with a stomach tumour

    This is our blind podenco Bo (Bocelli) who we adopted in 2022. In 2023 he had a small tumour removed from his stomach. We were warned it could return. He is the third of our Spanish hounds to suffer from stomach cancer. Galga Sahara had an inoperable one many years ago and galgo Bracken had one in 2021, not long after our return to the UK after living in France for 19 years.

    In February 2025, 2 years later after diagnosis. Bo’s stomach started to swell again. A scan at the vets confirmed our worst fears – the tumour had returned and this time it was judged inoperable, as it could be attached to either the spleen or the liver.

    In himself, Bo was his usual happy cheeky self, eating normally, playing with our other podenco. But as his stomach swelled, he hadn’t the energy to go on the long walks of previous years.

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  • PACMA – protestng about the Royal Decree 666/2023

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    PACMA – we want to tell you that on 5th March 2025 we have presented a proposal for an urgent modification of the terrible Royal Decree 666/2023 of the Government, which has generated enormous discomfort among veterinarians and animal guardians. There are many inconsistencies to correct.

    Why is this decree a problem?

    It requires notification of each veterinary prescription through the PRESVET system, including animals considered companion animals, when the European Regulation excludes them.

    It requires pathogen identification tests for certain antibiotics, which delays treatments and is costing animal lives.

    It imposes mandatory identification of animals for the administration of medications, making it difficult to treat community cats and abandoned animals. Such as where cats in a feral community are caught, neutered and returned to their community.

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  • The cost of hunting in Spain

    From Plataforma NAC

    There are fewer and fewer hunters… but Spain is still a great hunting ground!

    The number of hunters in Spain has dropped staggering: 45% down in the last 50 years and almost without generational relief. Meanwhile, 85% of Spanish territory is still destined for hunting, a multimillion dollar business in the hands of a few.

    The cost of this activity?

    30 million animals killed every year.
    Lead ammunition polluting the environment.
    Dozens of dead and injured in hunting accidents.
    Dogs used and abandoned after the season.

    Hunting is not necessary or ethical! Most of society rejects this cruel practice, but kinetic lobbies continue to impose their interests.

    #NoALaCaza #NaturalezaSinMuerte

  • How to treat cuts and sores on your dog’s feet

    Read the full article on this weblink.

    When I’ve had a problem like this on one of my dogs, I use Vet bandage and make a bootee from leather with a tape tie.

  • Taking your dog, cat or ferret abroad – Animal Health Certificate needed every trip

    Brexit has a lot to answer for, not thought out and making an unholy mess of countless things linking the UK to the rest of Europe. Travelling from the UK to Europe with your dog gets ever more complicated. You need to get a certificate a minimum of 10 days before you travel, and a certificate for every time you do!!

    This weblink takes you to information about an Animal Health Certificate.

  • How to treat cuts and sores on your dog’s feet

    Read the full article on this weblink.

    When I’ve had a problem like this on one of my dogs, I use Vet bandage and make a bootee from leather with a tape tie.

  • E-Collars and Podencos: Why We Must Push for the UK Ban

    E collars and podencos 350
    From a post by Bev Farmer of Podenco Friends

    The Use of E-Collars on Podencos: what are your thoughts about using them?

    On the attached photo a question was put to a advocate of e-collars .. Why would you use E.Collar on a podenco that has been abused ? The answer was extremely disturbing. Please read the reply on the photo.

    The Reality of Rescue: Healing the Broken

    Every Podenco that enters rescue has a story—often one of neglect, fear, and survival. We spend months rehabilitating them, earning their trust, and helping them recover both physically and emotionally. These dogs, already so fragile, should never be subjected to training methods that rely on pain and fear.

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  • Dementia in dogs

    Of all the dogs I have had in over 7 decades of my life, I have only had one with dementia. One was sadly stolen and never found; one young one was run over and killed; 3 were lost to cancer; one had dementia. The rest lived long and happy lives.

    It was my borderline collie (99% border collie/1%spaniel) who developed dementia and it was upsetting to see. I’d find him standing still with no idea where he was, what direction to go in, straddling a low brick wall, snapping when caressed. He was in his teens by then, so it was part of the natural ageing process for him. In the end he became so confused it was kinder to comfort him as he was pts.

    This is a weblink about recognising and caring for a dog with dementia.

    A weblink to a book by someone living with a dog with dementia.

  • Plants toxic to dogs

    Toxic house plants12 2024 400
    Plants can be an incredible addition to a home, but sometimes they don’t mesh well with our pets. Here is some info to keep your fur babies safe while still enjoying your green thumb!