Pet Health Risks in Sotogrande (and How to Avoid Them)

In this episode, I sit down with Ricardo, a second-generation veterinarian raised in Sotogrande/La Línea, to talk about caring for pets in our community. From the polo season and horse care to everyday dog & cat health, we cover what new and longtime residents should know: leishmaniasis vaccines, pine processionary season, heat-stroke safety, travel requirements (EU/UK), dog-friendly tips, and more.If you’re moving to Sotogrande with pets—or already here—this one’s packed with practical advice.👉 Please subscribe for more local insights & interviews: it really helps us bring on great guests.What you’ll learn- What veterinary care looks like in Sotogrande (all year, not just summer)- The must-know vaccine for dogs arriving in Spain (leishmaniasis)- Pine processionary (Feb–Apr): how to spot it and what to do fast- Beach hazards (fishhooks), common allergies, and heat-stroke prevention- Traveling with pets (EU/UK): rabies, pet passports, tapeworm certificate- Registration & microchipping when you arrive in Spain- Why basic dog training matters in a very dog-friendly communityChapters00:00 Intro & Ricardo’s roots01:09 Studying veterinary medicine in Madrid01:31 Family of vets & the polo-horse scene03:46 Small-animal work & surgeries04:22 Vets in Sotogrande & seasonality05:18 The human/emotional side of vet work06:22 Why training your dog matters07:55 Cats vs dogs at the clinic08:59 New to Spain: passports, rabies, leishmaniasis10:10 Pine processionary: risks & response11:17 Beach hazards: fishhooks13:00 Is Sotogrande dog-friendly? Leads & etiquette15:14 Heat stroke: signs & safe cooling19:11 Travel EU/UK: tapeworm cert & passports21:14 Registering your dog in SpainResources mentioned- Pine processionary warning (Feb–Apr): avoid “hairy caterpillars” near pine trees; seek vet help immediately if exposed.- Dog beaches/parks: options exist in the wider area; check local rules and seasonal restrictions before you go.- Travel: requirements vary by destination—speak to your vet well in advance.This conversation is general information, not medical advice. Always consult your vet for your pet’s specific needs.CONNECT WITH CHARLIE!📲 Mobile +34 607 911 661✉️ Email: [email protected]🔗 Website: https://charlesgubbins.com/STAY CONNECTED!📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/charlieinsotogrande/👤 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/charlieinsotogrande👨‍💻 LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/charliegubbins🎥 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/nollsotogrande🐦 Twitter: https://twitter.com/charliegubbins📱 TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@charlesgubbins