Doggy's daisy chain reaction

Jun 8 2008 Scott Miller

Pets Corner

Q Is it harmful for our West Highland terrier to eat daisies? She loves them.

A Daisies are mildly toxic to dogs and can cause vomiting, diarrhoea, drooling, staggering or loss of appetite. As long as this doesn't happen, don't worry if she eats the occasional one but make sure she doesn't eat too many.

Q When my three-year-old cocker spaniel has tummy trouble she seems to give off a scent that makes male dogs think she is in heat. She is always being chased in the park.

A The scent is probably coming from her changed poo or scent glands. Have the glands in her bottom checked and expressed, which may resolve the problem if done regularly.

Consider a hypoallergenic diet.

This should reduce inflammation and improve digestion.

Q My cat scratched a sore on her face until it was bleeding with no fur on the patch. I gave a her a special collar which stopped her itching but as soon as I take it off she scratches it raw again. This has been going on for a year.

A My first thought is ear mites, which live in the ears of dogs and cats. Ask your vet for an antiparasite treatment. If the problem continues try a skin biopsy. In the meantime, medication for a few weeks with the collar on should improve the condition. If all that fails, consider allergy blood tests.

Q We are struggling to settle a rescued pup in our house. We have a nine-year-old Staffordshire bull terrier who is normally friendly but hasn't accepted her and they have to be walked separately.

A Lots of hard work lies ahead. First, help the dogs to develop a bond by controlling the newcomer with firm commands and tough love until she learns your terrier is leader of this pack.

Feed your older dog first, giving her time to enjoy meals while taking the pup outdoors. Next step is to chaperone play between the two. Dog training classes will also help her show respect towards her housemate and win her over.

Q One of your pets of the week was a rabbit called Fudge who eats rhubarb leaves. These are highly toxic and could kill the pet.

A Well spotted. Rhubarb has oxalates which are harmful in large amounts. A better choice of treat for rabbits would be apples (minus the seeds), asparagus, banana, clover, marigolds, pear, spinach or even watermelon.

Q My four-year-old Cavalier King Charles spaniel has trouble with his soft palate. He often chokes, his tongue turns blue and he always sounds like he is snoring. How risky would an operation be?

A Definitely go for the surgery. If it is severe enough for his tongue to turn blue, it needs serious action. The operation involves trimming the elongated soft palate so he can breathe easier. This is no more risky than any other surgery. Ask for a referral to a specialist soft tissue surgeon.

If your cat's got flu or your dog is barking mad, our vet has the answers. Send your questions to

Pets corner, Right at Home, One Central Quay, G3 8DA or email pets@sundaymail.co.uk