Summer pet care

Then why not head over to Sandwell Valley Park Farm? Not only are there lots of things for the children to do, it's the 'pawfect' place for our dogs to stretch their legs and enjoy the great outdoors!

Himley Hall is also a great place for long peaceful walks with your dogs, or Baggeridge Country Park where you can stop for a coffee at their tea rooms.

If you have rabbits and guinea pigs, summer is the time to think about getting them an outdoor run so they can get some fresh grass and enjoy the sunshine. Always provide them with a shaded area though, so that if it gets too warm they can rest in the shade.

In summer there are more creepy crawlies about as fleas and ticks reproduce throughout spring and summer, so keep your pets' anti-parasite treatment in order.

Back in April I had the pleasure of being invited along to the second annual Pride Of Tipton Awards. It is an amazing evening celebrating community spirit and the selfless acts of the wonderful people of the Black Country! I was so pleased to see a local lady, Diane Bing, win an award for her dedication to our environment. Every day she walks her dog for miles around the parks and walkways in Tipton, picking up litter and dog mess others have left behind. If only more members of the community could have her way of thinking.

As of April 2016 all dogs will legally have to be microchipped. Our local councils, police forces, community support officers and local veterinary practices will be enforcing the new law. If your pet is found to be without a microchip, you could face fines of up to £500! Not only is it the law, it's for your peace of mind that if your per ever gets stolen or runs off, you can rest assured that it can be more easily returned to you when found.