Dear PDSA Vet: We’re planning a long road trip for our family holiday this summer and we’ll be taking our pup with us. How can I make sure he’s calm and happy on the journey? Lucy

To get your dog familiar with travelling in the car and to help reduce motion sickness, I’d take him for lots of short trips before you go away. Remember to keep your pooch safe and sound with a suitable restraint, such as a pet seatbelt or carrier. On any long trip, it’s important to always remember to take plenty of water to keep your dog cool and plan in regular stops to give him a chance to stretch his legs, go to the toilet, and enjoy some fresh air. I’d also recommend researching dog-friendly cafes along your route and grassy areas to let your pup run about. In warmer weather, consider leaving early in the morning when the temperature is cooler.

Dear PDSA Vet: How often should I treat my cat for worms? Harry

There are two main types of intestinal worms that can infect cats – roundworm and tapeworm. Luckily, these are easy to manage with regular worming treatments. For most adult cats, a treatment every three months should keep worms at bay, but kittens and those that frequently hunt may need treating more regularly. Preventive methods include spot-on solutions or tablets - there are both prescription and non-prescription wormers available so it’s always best to consult your vet who can advise you on the best option for your feline companion. For more advice on preventive healthcare for your cat, visit https://www.pdsa.org.uk/cat-health

Dear PDSA Vet: I’m worried about my dog, Jasper, getting fleas when we go on long walks. Is there any way to prevent them? Jacob

Fleas can be a real bugbear, but most pets will pick them up close to home - keeping Jasper up-to-date with his preventive treatment should keep them at bay and many will also help to prevent ticks, which can be picked up on walks. There are many options available so speak to your vet about which is best for Jasper - prescription products are the most effective. It’s a good idea to keep on top of vacuuming your home too, and consider using an environmental flea spray especially around Jasper’s bedding and under furniture. If you’re worried your pup may have fleas, you can check for flea dirt around his back end and the base of his tail.

Dear PDSA Vet: Do you have any tips for toilet training young puppies? We’re having a nightmare with our Labrador at the moment. Niamh

Having a consistent routine is key when toilet training, but it can be frustrating at times! Take your puppy outside regularly throughout the day (every two to three hours) and try using a phrase such as “wee-wee time” that they can associate with toileting outdoors. Give them lots of chances to get it right – take them out first thing in the morning and after every meal when they’re likely to need to toilet. Try to learn how to spot when your puppy needs to toilet – you may see them circling and sniffing the floor. Reward-based training methods are always more effective, so give them lots of fuss and praise or a healthy treat when they do the right thing and never get annoyed at them for having an accident, as this won’t help them learn any quicker.

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