Dog Vet Care

Vaccinations

Puppies need their first round of inoculations and follow-up vaccinations at a young age. If the breeder has not already done this, you will need to arrange to have them vaccinated. We’d also recommend getting a check up to ensure there are no obvious health problems. Your vet will be able to advise the best time for your dog’s breed.

We would always recommend keeping up to date with booster vaccinations as advised by your vet to protect your dog against viruses and deadly diseases.

Worm, flea and tick treatment

Dogs can pick up parasites from playing outdoors or from other dogs so it’s important to provide preventative treatment against worms, ticks and fleas on a regular basis, usually monthly. Your vet will be able to recommend treatments which are suitable for your dog based on their size, lifestyle, and the area you live in as well your budget. Some treatments can be costly so do your research and ask your vet to recommend a range of suitable treatments. Many even offer a subscription service to prevent missing a dose.

Treatments

These preventative treatments can be administered at home and usually come in the form of a liquid solution which is applied to the back of the neck. You may find it easier to have someone helping you. Alternatively, they can also come in tablet form, which can be hidden in food.

If you see live fleas, worms or ticks on your dog, speak to your vet right away about treatment. It is possible for preventative measures to lose effectiveness, for example, if your dog gains or loses weight.

Avoid products which contain permethrin and never use a treatments designed for cats or other animals.

Microchipping

In the UK, it is a legal requirement for dogs to be microchipped by eight weeks old. The microchip should be registered or updated with the owner’s contact information in an approved database. Dog owners are also legally required to use a collar and ID tag. If your dog is not microchipped, or the details on the microchip are not up-to-date, you can be fined up to £500.

The benefits of microchipping your dog

Microchipping is the most effective way to increase the chances of a reunion should your dog ever go missing. It is a quick procedure that provides pets with a unique identification code, making it easier to trace and contact their owner. If your details should ever change, such as your address or phone number, these can be updated via an online database, sometimes for a fee.

Microchipping is included in our adoption fee, and should only ever be carried out by someone who is properly trained.

Neutering

Neutering is a common surgical procedure which stops your pet from being able to breed and to avoid unwanted litters.

Male dogs

Neutering (or castrating) male dogs involves the removal of both testicles. This can help to reduce the chance of them getting prostate disease and reduces the risk of some cancers.

Female dogs

Spaying is the term used for neutering female dogs. It involves removing the ovaries and usually the uterus. This procedure prevents unwanted litters.

When to neuter

The best time to neuter your dog will depend on their breed, size and sex. Speak to you vet about a suitable age for your dog to have the procedure. Every dog adopted from the Scottish SPCA will have been neutered unless they are too young or a vet has advised against the procedure. If they are too small at the time of adoption, we will issue a voucher to have the procedure carried out at a later date.

If you are concerned about behavioural issues and thinking about neutering, consult an accredited behaviourist for further advice.

If you’re concerned about the cost of neutering, please call 03000 999 999 for advice on organisations or charities offering financial assistance programs in your area or visit our webpage about our low-cost neutering scheme.