Calling all dog owners and wannabe pup parents in East Renfrewshire! Ever wondered if you and your furry friend are a perfect match made in doggy heaven? Or which dog breed you’d be most compatible with? Well, wonder no more! This fun quiz from Rouken Glen Vets will help you answer these questions.

See how you and your pup compare with other dog owners in East Renfrewshire by sharing your results on our Facebook page.

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Rouken Glen Vets’ Dog Compatibility Quiz

Grab a pen and paper and get ready to answer these questions:

1. What’s your ideal weekend activity?

1. Lounging in the park with a good book.
2. Exploring a new hiking trail with breathtaking views.
3. Spending the day at a dog-friendly cafe with friends.
4. Relaxing at home with a movie marathon (and plenty of doggy cuddles).

2. How would you describe your daily routine?

1. Fairly relaxed, with some errands and leisurely walks.
2. Active and busy, with a packed schedule.
3. Social and unpredictable, with outings and various activities.
4. Home-based, with plenty of time for relaxation and snuggles.

3. How do you feel about training your dog?

1. I prefer a well-mannered pup, so consistent training is important.
2. I enjoy the challenge of teaching tricks and commands.
3. I’m happy with basic obedience, but socialisation is key.
4. Positive reinforcement and gentle cues work best for me.

4. What’s your cleaning tolerance level?

1. I like things clean and tidy, with minimal shedding tolerated.
2. A little mud and fur are a small price to pay for adventure.
3. I can handle some mess, but excessive shedding might be a challenge.
4. Cuddles are important, so a bit of fur is a furry friend badge of honour!

5. How do you feel about alone time?

1. I value my personal space and quiet time.
2. I’m okay with short periods alone but prefer company.
3. I enjoy social interaction and worry about leaving my dog alone for too long.
4. My dog is my constant companion, and I rarely leave them for extended periods.

The Results

Did you enjoy taking Rouken Glen Vets’ Dog Compatibility Test? Are you ready for the results? Tot up how many of each answer you got (a – d) and let’s see how compatible you are:

Mostly A’s: The Independent Soul – You’re a relaxed individual who enjoys peace and quiet. A dog like a Greyhound, Shiba Inu, or Basset Hound might be your perfect match. These breeds are known for being independent and low-maintenance, content with a calm environment and leisurely walks (although a greyhound should have some opportunities for sprinting in safety).

Mostly B’s: The Adventure Buddy – You crave excitement and love exploring the great outdoors. An energetic breed like a Border Collie, Jack Russell Terrier, or Australian Shepherd could be your ideal companion. These pups are full of beans and love accompanying you on hikes, runs, and outdoor adventures.

Mostly C’s: The Social Butterfly – You’re a social butterfly who thrives on company. A friendly and outgoing breed like a Golden Retriever, Labrador Retriever, or Beagle might suit you best. These dogs love meeting new people and furry friends, making them perfect for days out at the park or dog-friendly cafes.

Mostly D’s: The Cuddle Companion – You value relaxation and cherishing moments with your furry friend. A laid-back breed like a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, Shih Tzu, Bullmastiff, or Bichon Frise could be your ideal match. These cuddly pups are happy to lounge by your side, offering companionship and warmth.

Remember, this is just a bit of fun from our dog-loving team at Rouken Glen Vets. Every dog is an individual, and with love, training, and patience, any dog can become a perfect companion!

Share and compare results with other dog owners and wannabe pup parents in East Renfrewshire on our Facebook page – we look forward to joining in the discussion!

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Summer is all about having fun in the sun, rolling in the sand, and splashing in the sea – especially when your furry friend is in tow! To ensure your dog stays safe at the seaside, Rouken Glen Vets shares top tips for a worry-free beach day below.

Brighten up our day by sharing your doggy beach photos & videos with us on Facebook!

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Sun, Sand, Sea and Safety!

Rouken Glen Vets knows that a bit of sun-smart planning can make all the difference for a safe summer with your pooch. So…

• Feeling hot? Consider leaving your furry friend to relax in a cool spot at home, especially if they are really young, old, have a very thick coat or a health condition.
• On long days out and holidays with your dog, factor in time out of the sun together or schedule beach outings during cooler times of the day i.e. early morning or late afternoon.

Ready to hit the beach? Here are some tail-wagging tips from our dog-loving Vet, Richard Black:

Our Top 10 Tips

1. Sun Protection & Shade: Consider lightweight, UV-protective gear and dog-safe sunscreen to prevent sunburn. Set up camp in shaded areas to shield your furry friend from the sun’s rays.

Vet Richard Black, advises dog owners to be aware of the signs of heatstroke in dogs which include excessive panting, drooling, restlessness, red gums/tongue, lethargy, vomiting & diarrhoea. If your dog is struggling, take them out of the heat, wet their fur with cool water, encourage drinking and get prompt vet advice.

2. Watch Those Waves: Assess water conditions before letting your dog take a dip. Stick to calmer waters and keep a close eye on your pup while they paddle.
3. Prevent Saltwater Intake: Discourage your dog from drinking saltwater, as excessive consumption can lead to health issues. Ball games in the sea can result in dogs gulping saltwater.
4. Stay Hydrated: Bring plenty of fresh water for your dog to drink and offer regular hydration breaks. A collapsible water bowl is a convenient accessory for beach outings. Richard’s top tip for spotting dehydration in dogs is to pull up a pinch of skin and let it drop. If it doesn’t go back to normal right away, your dog is likely dehydrated.
5. Protect Those Paws: Sand and hot surfaces can scorch sensitive paw pads. Consider doggy booties or schedule beach visits during cooler times of the day.
6. Watch Out for Hazards: Keep an eye out for sharp debris that could harm your pup’s paws. Take a stroll along the shore to ensure the area is safe before letting your dog off-leash.
7. Sand Safety for Dogs: Keep an eye on your pup to ensure they’re not ingesting sand, which can lead to digestive issues or blockages – rinse off sandy paws after beach play. Sand in the eyes can cause problems too so wipe it away with a damp tissue if it’s irritating your dog.
8. Know Your Dog’s Limits: Not all dogs are natural swimmers. Recognise your dog’s comfort level and never force them into water if they seem anxious or tired.
9. Practice Proper Beach Etiquette: Foster a happier beach experience for all by abiding by local beach restrictions, cleaning up after your dog, and being mindful of other beachgoers and their pets.
10. Rinse & Repeat: After a day of beach fun, Richard recommends rinsing off your pup with fresh water to remove salt & sand. Pay extra attention to their paws, ears, and underbelly to prevent irritation.

By following these simple tips, you and your furry friend can enjoy a safe and fun-filled day at the beach. So, lather on that sunscreen, grab your beach gear, and get ready to make unforgettable memories together!

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Is there more to dog grooming than just getting rid of tangles and dead hair?

Yes, there is! Whether your dog is long-haired, wire-haired or short-haired, they’re going to need coat brushing and maintenance for sure. But they’ll also need regular attention paying to other areas to keep them clean and healthy too.

Your favourite veterinary nurses in Giffnock are sharing their advice below on the best dog grooming routine.

Book a tailored nurse appointment

Before we dive in, May 2024 marks the 20th anniversary of Veterinary Nurse Awareness Month (VNAM), a celebration of veterinary nurses everywhere for their hard work and the care they provide to pets and owners. We know our nursing team would love to hear from you, so why not share how they’ve helped you & your pet on our Facebook page? Be sure to include the hashtag: #VNAM24

Nose-to-tail dog grooming

Dog grooming goes beyond coat condition and is a vital part of maintaining your pet’s health and happiness. Here, Rouken Glen Vets’ nurses share why a nose-to-tail grooming routine is best:

1. Quality Bonding Time: Dog grooming strengthens your connection with your furry friend while providing calming relaxation for both of you, so groom away!
2. Health Check: Daily grooming helps you spot any irregularities like lumps, bumps, sores, or parasites early on, ensuring prompt vet attention if needed.
3. Coat Care: Regular brushing promotes healthy blood circulation and balances natural oils, tailored to your dog’s individual needs and coat type. Our Giffnock veterinary nurses can advise you on the right tools and products to use as well as how often to wash your dog.
4. Comprehensive Care: Check your dog’s ears, eyes, nose, teeth, nails, and paws for signs of discomfort or infection – you may notice a bad smell, discharge, or your dog’s unusual reaction. Our nurses can provide demonstrations and assistance for proper care – book a nurse appointment.
5. Enjoyable Experience: Make grooming a positive experience with plenty of praise, treats, and encouragement for your dog.
6. Stay Alert: If you notice anything concerning during grooming, reach out to our team for advice and early intervention.

Rouken Glen Vets’ nurses love helping dog owners keep their pets in tip-top condition, so book a personalised appointment for your dog at our Giffnock vet practice. They can offer advice that’s tailored to your dog’s individual needs including recommendations on techniques and equipment suited to your dog.

Book a nurse appointment today

Before you go, please do share your experiences with our fantastic veterinary nurses on Facebook, with the hashtag #VNAM24

National Pet Month in April is all about responsible pet ownership and so this year, our vets in Giffnock are highlighting the importance of keeping a close eye on your canine companion’s health in order to spot parasites.

In this article, Vet Richard Black is talking about worms and how to spot them in your dog, plus we’ve also got a bonus downloadable Guide on Fleas Spotting to share with you:

Download & share our bonus Flea Spotting Guide

Why are dog worms such a big problem?

One aspect of pet care that can require regular attention is monitoring for signs of intestinal worms in dogs. These parasites can cause discomfort and health issues for your pet if left untreated. Below, Richard explains the common signs that may indicate your dog has worms.

First, here are three worms in dogs to be particularly concerned about:

• Roundworms are one of the most common intestinal parasites found in dogs. They can be transmitted to puppies from their mother before birth or through her milk. Adult dogs can also become infected by ingesting roundworm eggs from contaminated soil or faeces.
• Tapeworms in dogs are another prevalent intestinal parasite. They are commonly transmitted through the ingestion of fleas or by hunting and eating small mammals or birds infected with tapeworm larvae.
• Lungworm in dogs can be contracted by ingesting infected slugs or snails, as well as their larvae present in the environment. Puppies may also acquire lungworm larvae through their mother’s milk. Once ingested, the larvae develop into adult worms in the dog’s lungs, leading to potentially severe health issues.

How to tell if your dog has worms

Below, Richard shares 8 telltale signs that your dog could indeed have worms:

1. Changes in appetite and weight – some dogs may experience an increased appetite as worms steal nutrients from their bodies, while others may lose interest in food altogether. Richard advises that if you notice your dog eating significantly more or less than usual, it’s worth investigating further – contact us.
2. Visible worms or worm segments in your dog’s faeces, vomit, or around their bottom. These can appear as small, white, rice-like grains or as longer, spaghetti-like strands. If you spot any unusual objects in your dog’s stool or vomit, it’s essential to get your dog checked by one of our vets in Giffnock for proper diagnosis and treatment.
3. Changes in stool such as diarrhoea, constipation, or stools that appear abnormal in colour, consistency, or odour. Keep an eye on your dog’s bathroom habits, as any persistent changes could indicate an underlying health issue, including worms.
4. Visible signs of discomfort such as scooting their bottom along the ground or excessive licking around the bottom area. This behaviour is often a result of irritation caused by worms or their eggs and should prompt a visit to one of the vets at our Giffnock practice for further evaluation.
5. Lethargy and weakness and a general lack of interest in activities due to worm infestations draining your dog’s energy levels. Notice if your dog seems unusually tired or sluggish.
6. Potbellied appearance in severe cases due to a large presence of worms in their gastrointestinal tract. Richard advises that a swollen abdomen can be a sign of serious worm-related health issues and should be addressed promptly – contact us.
7. Dull, dry coat and overall poor condition due to worms robbing your dog of vital nutrients. Notice if your dog’s coat suddenly loses its shine or becomes rough and unkempt.
8. Persistent coughing, difficulty breathing, lethargy and sometimes bleeding disorders in the case of lungworm.

If you notice any of these signs in your dog, get in touch with our team as soon as possible so we can arrange for proper diagnosis and treatment. With timely intervention, most worm infestations in dogs can be effectively treated, allowing your furry friend to get their health back on track.

Download our bonus flea spotting guide

While you’re focusing on keeping your dog healthy and free from worms, don’t forget about another common parasite: fleas. These tiny pests can cause itching, discomfort, and even transmit diseases to your dog. Download our bonus guide to spotting fleas here!

Remember, prevention is key when it comes to protecting your dog from parasites like worms and fleas. By staying vigilant and seeking veterinary care at the first sign of trouble, you can help ensure your canine companion enjoys a happy & healthy, parasite-free life.

Download our bonus flea spotting guide