​If you’ve ever looked at your guinea pig’s paws and noticed a hard, flap-like growth of skin sticking out from the side of their foot, you might have done a double-take. Is it a second nail, a wart? Actually, it’s most likely a foot spur. While they look a bit strange, they are quite common—but they definitely shouldn't be ignored. ​ What Exactly is a Foot Spur? ​A foot spur (sometimes called a "corny growth") is an overgrowth of skin, usually found on the front feet. Unlike

Why a well-being check important? ​Since tortoises have long lifespan, a lot of their health issues develop very slowly. A quick check-up helps catch things before they become a real problem. This will includes eyes, ears, nostrils, beak, mouth, neck, scales, cloaca, gait/movement, carapace shell (back shell), plastron shell (bottom shell), front and back legs, feet and nails and weight. ​Beak and Nail Maintenance: We’ll check if their beak is getting a bit too long (which m

​Let’s be honest, as much as we love our long-haired guinea pigs, keeping up with that long fur can be a bit of a struggle. Between the hay getting stuck and the tangles forming overnight, sometimes a little DIY grooming at home feels a bit daunting. ​That’s why we’ve decided to launch a dedicated Guinea Pig Haircut service for just £8. We aren't looking to give them a model-ready look, our focus is purely on making sure your piggies are clean, comfortable, and tangle-free. I

Everyone boards pets for holidays, but what about the rest of life? At Little Dolittle, we provide reliable, specialist boarding for your tortoise, guinea pig, hamster, insects or other animals when things get chaotic at home. ​Having a makeover at home? Time for your pets to come to us! Home improvements  — like a new kitchen or window fitting—are brilliant for your house, but terrifying for small, sensitive pets. ​ Contractors, dust, noise, and fumes create stress and real

Just like us, cats slow down as they age. Senior cats can develop stiff joints, dental problems, or even a little confusion from feline dementia — but with gentle care and understanding, they can still enjoy their golden years feeling safe, loved, and relaxed. At Little Dolittle, we provide home visits for cats, including elderly or special-needs cats who are happiest in their own familiar environment. Our visits are always carried out with patience, kindness, and an understa

Tortoises are fascinating, long-lived companions that often become part of a family for generations. Because they can live for many decades — sometimes over 80 years! — it’s not uncommon for tortoises to find themselves looking for a new home when their previous owner can no longer care for them. If you’ve recently adopted a tortoise, you’ve taken on a truly rewarding responsibility. However, it can sometimes be tricky to know where to start, especially if your tortoise has c

Hibernation is a natural process for many tortoise species, particularly those from temperate regions such as the Mediterranean. In the...

We’re delighted to share our Autumn/Winter 2025 Newsletter! Full of seasonal advice, heart-warming stories, and important updates, this...

🐢 Why Tortoises Love Heat: Body temperature regulation: They need warmth to raise their internal temperature. Digestion: Warmth helps...

At Little Dolittle, we know how much your small pets mean to you—and their wellbeing is always our top priority. That’s why we always...

As we move into June, many people are now mowing their lawns again following No Mow May. While it’s tempting to let guinea pigs enjoy the...

As spring breathes life back into the UK countryside, gardens, and meadows, it also brings a hidden danger for pet owners and farmers...

Tortoises are fascinating pets, but like all animals, they can be affected by internal parasites such as worms. Understanding how to...

We’re thrilled to announce that our Spring/Summer 2025 Newsletter has arrived! Packed with expert advice and exciting updates, this...

Are you planning a trip and wondering how to ensure your small pet is cared for in a safe, comfortable environment? Choosing the right...

When planning a trip, owners of small pets often wonder whether to book a boarding service or home visits. While home visits can provide...

We're thrilled to announce the launch of our brand-new series of care sheets, designed to help you provide the best possible care for...

Guinea Pigs Indoor or Outdoor Enclosure: Minimum of 5' x 2' for two guinea pigs, larger for more. Avoid using ramp or second level, if...

Christmas season is a time of joy, love, and togetherness—something we believe should extend to your furry or scaly family members. At...

Hamsters, Mice, and Gerbils Ideal Temperature: 18-24°C Heating Tips: Extra Bedding: Provide deep layers of safe bedding like aspen...