Let's Go Walkies!

Let’s Go Walkies!

Written by Keri Holmes, Vet at Pennard Vets Tonbridge

Finally summer has arrived (although that is a fluid concept in this country and it could still change its mind at any moment!) so what better way to kick it off than with a lovely stroll in the park!

As part of a team from Pennard Vets, along with their dogs, I joined the The Guide Dogs Association on a walk in Knole Park for pooches and their people on Sunday the 27^th May.  We were all very pleased to see children and adults alike arrive with their four legged friends of all shapes and sizes to raise money for such a worthy cause.  In sponsoring our dogs we have all helped to raise money that will go towards enriching the lives of blind and partially sighted people all over the country.

At 7 years of age, Isabella was Pennard’s youngest participant.  She did the one mile walk with Anna (one of Bob’s dogs) and thoroughly enjoyed her self.  I was bringing up the rear for most of the way on the 3 mile walk as we had to make several ‘pit stops’ for my little’un (bless him – I think it was his nerves from all the excitement).  Let’s just say I was grateful to the practice for the provision of all the free poo bags!

There was one VERY cute pooch (who shall remain nameless but deserves a mention J) who managed to pull off a genius manoeuvre that brought him freedom from the lead for about 5 minutes.  He did a few victory laps of the gazebo at full speed before reuniting with his family.  I must say that all the dogs that took part were on their best behaviour and their owners should all be extremely proud!

Doing the walk in the 26 degree heat the free bottled water provided by Pennards went down an absolute treat.  I discovered that some dogs even have a talent for drinking directly from the bottle!  The goodie bags and treats galore were gratefully received by all and some fantastic prizes were won on the tombola.

We would like to thank Marion and the Guide Dog Team for organising the event impeccably – there wasn’t a single aspect of the day that hadn’t been thoroughly thought out and this allowed for a smooth, enjoyable day.  Thanks also to The National Trust at Knole Park for providing us with a beautiful setting for our walk.

Last but not least, a massive thank you to all of the dogs and walkers for taking part and our clients being so generous with your sponsorship.  Thank you all!

Click here for Pennard Vets Website

May's Bravery Award Goes To Kia!

Kia, an 8 year old Border Collie was first brought into the surgery by her owner, as she was vomiting and pyrexic. She was admitted for intravenous fluid therapy, internal blood tests and for any medication required. Abdominal radiographs were taken to see if there was an obstruction which was causing the vomiting. This showed no obstructions or foreign bodies. Kia was given pain relief and was slowly re-introduced back to food once she hadn’t vomited for 24 hours. After 48 hours of not vomiting, Kia had improved and was sent home. 
Unfortunately Kia was re-admitted to the hospital, after she started to vomit again and was placed back on intravenous fluids with symptomatic medication. Abdominal x-rays were re-taken but this time showed signs of a possible foreign body in the caudal abdomen. It was decided to perform a exploratory laporotomy (surgical procedure into the abdomen), to find the foreign body. 
On exploration there was no foreign body present but samples were taken from different sections of the gastro-intestinal tract to send to an external laboratory. Kia was very subdued after her operation and was coughing due to the irritation causing by the endotracheal tube (this is used to maintain their airways during surgery). 
The results from the samples showed inflammation in the gastro-intestinal tract and she was started on steroids to reduce this. Kia started to improve; she hadn’t vomited for three days and was much happier so was sent home. 
Three days later Kia’s owners brought her back to the surgery as she was still vomiting, she was admitted for a barium radiographic study. This is when a radioopaque substance is administered, showing up any irregularities in the gastro-intestinal tract on an x-ray. This showed that she had a megaoesophagus, this is when the muscle in the oesophagus that moves the food down to the stomach is not functioning and causes the oesophagus to dilate. This is easily managed by feeding a small amount of food often and from a height. After a difficult start Kia started to improve and her owners made her a special chair to sit in during eating (see picture).
Even though Kia’s diagnosis was complicated, she was brave throughout every procedure and was so loving towards all members of staff. Kia was always strong and patient, this is why we feel she truly deserves this bravery award.