Hike On Pet Services & Adventures

28/04/2026

James has been an absolute trooper these past 7 (yes 7!!!) months I've been off my feet, going to various appointments and waiting on specialists. I had a recent MRI scan of my spine done as the Rheumatologist was concerned it may be spinal involvement causing nerve compression damage. However, it has come back clear of this. I am still convinced it's nerve related, but this isn't the particular root of concern I have. I am still awaiting neurology, going to see if the GP can chase that because I'm at the point of having to consider closing down the business now, which I really don't want, but my options are very limited given my health.

Orthotics recommended some footwear to try and take some pressure and pain off when mobile, I'm waiting for those to arrive but we are all sceptical but hopeful it helps at least some as getting out for any length of time currently requires a wheelchair or scooter.

Anyway. That's a very bleak but rather realistic update of the situation.

27/03/2026

Easter Holidays approach! If you have any changes to your schedule over the next week or two for walkies, please do let us know this week so we can make sure we have our Rota organised :D

23/03/2026

Important information!

We do have Adder in the county, and if you're taking your dogs further afield, always a small risk this time of year and through the warmer months, as they are more active, breeding and feeding after a more dormant period in the colder months.

Follow the advice in the post and act without delay even if your pet seems well

🐍 Adders 🐍
Now that spring is finally here, we have started to notice an increase in calls regarding adder bites.

The adder (Vipera berus berus) is the only venomous snake native to the UK, and is also found across northern Europe. It is a protected species in the UK. Adders are most commonly, but not exclusively, found on dry, sandy heaths, sand dunes, rocky hillsides, moorlands and woodland edges. The clinical signs of an adder bite can include rapid and progressive swelling around the bite site, pain, lethargy, vomiting, bruising, bleeding and collapse.

What should you do if your pet has been bitten by an adder?
❌Do not panic.
❌Do not interfere with the bite.
❌Do not apply a tourniquet.
❌Do not attempt to touch or catch the snake.
❌Do not kill the snake – it is a protected species.
❌If practical, carry your dog to your car and go to your veterinary surgeon - do not delay seeking advice even if your pet is well as things can change quickly.

Adders are not aggressive and generally only bite when provoked. They hibernate in the winter and as a result most bites occur in the summer. Pets are frequently bitten on the leg, head or neck. If your pet has been bitten by an adder (even if you did not see the snake or are not sure what happened) – contact your vet immediately. Your vet will examine your pet to determine the location of the bite and extent of the swelling.

Veterinary professionals can call us any time on 02073 055 055 if required for assistance with managing cases of adder bites. We also hold a list of antivenom stockists across the UK. Please note that antivenom is not indicated in all cases.

12/03/2026

All of you are aware I've had some frustrating health issues since the end of September/early October last year. I'm still waiting on a specialist appointment for further investigations. At Christmas I ended up having some vision problems and was promptly diagnosed with Uveitis and had my lens and iris stuck together on my right eye. Well last Friday was my last check up and just before this I started to experience some vision issues in my other eye. By last night I was in pain and this morning my vision in that eye was almost completely gone. Got an emergency appointment at the optician and unfortunately now have uveitis in my left eye with another stuck lens. Acute treatment means eye dilations and check ups every few days for the first week or two, so James is on his own all around he doesn't have my back up for about a week at least as I have to dilate both eyes 2-3 times a day which means I cannot see to drive or do pretty much anything. Please, PLEASE, be patient with him ❤️

08/03/2026

A week of doggies with J, the weather was a total mixed mag, a few lovely days and couple of grotty ones. Typical spring weather!

08/03/2026

Had a few wee days with these girlies last week. They made sure I felt very welcome and whilst Laney is always a cuddle bug it's taken time for Lottie to show her full enthusiasm for my presence and the woos and jumps, tail wiggles, kisses and snuggles on my lap have been well earned haha

25/02/2026

Husky Mode: On or Off lol Nook is a sweetheart and we had a lovely wee overnight at the weekend.

24/02/2026

The end of last week was a total mixed bag of weather but all doggos enjoyed themselves and I had my cuddles from the car 😍

19/02/2026

Dog walks and Drop Ins this week so far :) Walkers have been having fun in the nicer weather with James and Drop In clients have been having love and snuggles with me 🥰

13/02/2026

Some of the doggies seen and walked this week. James got many happy greetings this week when he returned ❤️

13/02/2026

Family affair for the farm this week, James got back from Antarctica and was straight up helping as I'm still having foot issues. Always lovely to care for this lovely lot when their owners pop away for a break :)

11/02/2026

It's Work Experience week here at Hike On and we have the lovely Freya with us. If you see us, feel free to say hello. Freya is studying at the SRUC Animal Care and gaining valuable on the job experience with me putting her livestock and domestic pet knowledge to excellent use as well as key responsibilities of a Pet Care Professional in a working environment and how to manage animals, monitor their health and behaviour on your watch and what to do if something isn't quite right as well. Lots to learn!