August 2009

 

Congratulations to Rebecca and Steve who were married on 1st August, after a reception at High Rocks Tunbridge Wells they spent their honeymoon in the Canary Isles. We wish them a very happy future together.

 

We are pleased that Andrew Starnes, our senior partner, has returned to work for light duties following a positive response to ongoing treatment for a serious illness.

 

May 2009

 

Vicky James was volunteered to appear on channel Five’s Michaela’s Animal Road Trip which was being filmed at Drusillas Zoo Park. Is this the start of a career as a TV Vet?

 

April 2009

 

Congratulations to Tiffany and Bob who had a lovely baby girl, Isabel, on 5th April 2009 weighing in at 9lbs 4oz. Tiffany is hoping to continue her nursing career next year.

 

 

February 2009

 

Congratulations to Andrew and Karen Wood who became parents to Megan Amelia on Wednesday 18th February.

 

 

December 2008

 

The Starnes and Gatward Vet Gazette is available online.

 

 

October 2008

 

Howe & Starnes becomes Starnes & Gatward.

 

 

August 2008

 

Kennel Cough Alert in the Uckfield Area– especially West Park, Ridgewood and Buxted

 

Infectious Bronchitis – otherwise known as ‘Kennel Cough’ - is a very contagious disease of the respiratory system, affecting dogs of all ages. The disease is caused by a mixture of viruses and bacteria, which pass easily from dog to dog as a droplet infection, wherever dogs congregate – in boarding kennels, dog shows, training classes, or simply out on walks.

 

If your dog develops Kennel Cough, the first thing that you are likely to notice is a dry, retching cough. Depending on how severe the infection is, your dog may also exhibit other signs such as lethargy, reluctance to eat, fever, and depression. The most important thing that you can do for your dog once infected is to rest him or her.

 

Unfortunately, there is no specific treatment for Kennel Cough however we can prescribe antibiotics to prevent secondary bacterial infections and anti-tussives to ease the cough. Steam inhalation can help the cough - this can be achieved by running a hot bath with your bathroom door shut, and sitting in the steamy room with your dog for 10 - 20 minutes.

 

Kennel Cough can last for several weeks, and your pet will be infectious all the time he is coughing.  Some dogs remain carriers for several months passing on the infection unknowingly to other dogs. Occasionally, particularly in immune-compromised animals, Kennel Cough can lead to pneumonia which is sometimes fatal.

 

All of this is why we consider prevention being better than cure. The good news is that there is a vaccine against Kennel Cough which   can start giving protection within 72 hours of administration.  The vaccine differs from your dog’s usual annual vaccination, in that it is squirted down the nostril, rather than being injected under the skin on the neck. Annual boosters are require to maintain protection.

 

Don’t take any chances with Kennel Cough – contact us on 01825 764268 for an appointment.

 

 

July 2008

 

Website launches this month.