Work has now started at our Welwyn Garden City surgery to build a new Theatre and recovery room.

Work will be completed around second week of January 2013 and operations will start in first week of February.

We are glad to announce our Walton Lodge Harlow site is now open for business, for all contact information please click here.

Fire Works Season

Fireworks time will soon be upon us, and many pets will be affected by the unpredictable loud noises. Sound fears are a very common problem – many cats and just under half of the UK dog population shows a fearful response to loud noises.

Fireworks are an increasing problem in many areas, as the season has now extended from the end of October until after New Year rather than just a few days either side of November the 5^th.

Pets can show varied stress reactions to firework noise - they can withdraw into themselves and hide, soil in the house, and sometimes even harm themselves whist trying to escape from the noise.

So what can you do if your pet is affected?

Walton Lodge Veterinary Group is encouraging pet owners to make plans now for firework season. Awalton Lodge vet will be able to provide good advice regarding how to cope on the night – for example how to react yourself and where to prepare a ‘den’ for your pet to hide in. They will also advise whether your pet would benefit from taking something, and recommend a product which suits your pet. Some animals will need prescription medications but there are other options to consider.

Zylkène is a natural product proven to help dogs and cats manage difficult situations such as a house move or kennel/cattery stay. It can also help dogs and cats cope with fireworks season. Zylkène has not been associated with side effects such as memory loss and sedation and is very easy to give - simply mix the palatable powder with food or a favourite treat.The manufacturer also provides printed information prepared by behaviour specialists offering owners practical advice and techniques to help their pets cope throughout this difficult time, as well as an information website www.zylkene.co.uk.

Once fireworks season is passed, it’s time to think about long-term control of the problem. Fear of fireworks tends to get worse over time and can expand to include fear of other loud noises such as thunder. Sound desensitisation has shown to be a very effective way of managing the problem long term. It involves exposing the animal to firework noises in a controlled way, and must not be done during firework season. It can take weeks or even months, but is a good investment in your pet’s future.

If fireworks upset your pet last year, please call one of our Walton Lodge surgeries and discuss the best way to manage the problem this year.

Zylkène is a natural product proven to help dogs and cats adapt to difficult situations. For more information, contact MSD Animal Health 01908 685685.

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