Horwich Advertiser Issue 635

Page 10 May 2026 AD SALES 01204 478812 158 Chorley New Road, Horwich BL6 5QW. Tel: 01204 694004 53 Chorley Road, Westhoughton BL5 3PD. Tel: 01942 818845 www.pikemoorvets.co.uk • Locally owned • Highly professional practice • Dedicated to caring for all your pets MANY humans experi- ence arthritis as they get older, and the same is true for rabbits. The most common form of arthritis in rabbits is osteoarthritis, a type of inflammation that causes pain and stiffness in the joints. While it can be pain- ful and can’t be cured as such, your rabbit should still be able to live a full and active life with the right combination of treatments. Symptoms of osteoar- thritis in rabbits include stiffness or wobbling when moving, not being able to eat soft morning stools directly from their bottom or a dirt or urine- soaked bottom. Other signs include an inability to angle their pelvis properly when weeing, meaning they can’t completely empty their bladder, moving around less when it’s cold or damp, a reduced appetite and unexplained aggression towards their owner or bonded partner. If you notice any of Could your rabbit have arthritis? PETS TO ADVERTISE CALL 01204 478812 WEISEL ANIMAL SERVICES Professional Dog Walking with 2-Dog Maximum Guarantee The “Constant Eyes-On” Difference ● Total Supervision - With only two dogs, I see every sniff, every step, and every tail wag. ● Safety First - Immediate reaction to hazards, traffic, and other off-lead dogs. DEFRA authorised Advance booking is advised, as all services are by appointment only. Contact Paul on 07396 705660 ● Pets To Vets - Service includes a round-trip pick-up for both you and your pet. I’ll provide comfortable transport to the clinic, remain on-site during the appointment for your convenience, and drive you both safely home. ● Moving Home Service - A big transition, so let me take one thing off your Mind. I provide a dedicated pet relocation service, picking up your dog and transporting them safely to your new front door. ● Professional Dog Walking ONE of the most important aspects of pet wellbeing is often overlooked – the role that every- day hygiene plays in protecting them, and us, from infection. Infections are caused by bacteria, viruses, fungi and parasites, and they can spread more easily than many people realise. Transmission doesn’t just happen through obvious illness – it can occur through direct contact, unwashed hands, contaminated sur- faces, or everyday items such as food bowls, bedding and floors. The Bella Moss Foundation is encouraging pet owners to take a few practical steps to create a cleaner, safer space that supports their pet’s overall health and welfare. These include washing food and water bowls, toys and regularly used surfaces to significantly lower the risk of infection. Avoid smoking around your pet, as passive smoke can affect animals just as it does people, con- tributing to respiratory problems and long-term health issues. Regular vet check-ups allow poten- tial problems to be identified early, often before symptoms become serious. Preventative care really can make the difference between a manageable issue and a life-threatening condi- tion. Also, stay on top of vaccinations, worming and flea control. Good nutrition and regular exercise are fundamental to your pet’s well- being. A balanced diet helps main- tain a healthy weight and supports the immune system, while exercise keeps your pet physically and men- tally stimulated. these signs, or are con- cerned about your rabbit, please get in touch with your vet practice. Your vet will be able to diagnose osteoarthritis and recommend some helpful methods for man- aging the condition. Treatment options may include: weight manage- ment, putting coverings on slippery floors and surfaces to aid move- ment, providing a litter tray that is low at the front and has no sharp edges and keeping your rabbit warm in cold and damp weather. Other measures include providing ramps or steps to get up to hutches, ensuring they have plenty of space to do gentle exercise and giving them things to play with and lots of environmental and feeding enrichment. It’s also a good idea to keep an eye on your rab- bit’s bottom, groom them regularly and maintain regular treatment against the Flystrike disease. For further advice about rabbit care, please get in touch with your vets’ practice. SIMPLE STEPS MAKE A DIFFERENCE