PET HEALTH BLOG
DHPP Vaccine – What is it and who needs it?
These 4, often fatal, viruses can be easily prevented by the administration of the DHPP vaccine. The vaccine should be given to puppies at 8 weeks of age, and then again as boosters at 12 and 16 weeks of age. The vaccine should then be administered annually or tri-annually depending on the brand of vaccine given and the recommendations of your veterinarian.
Cushing's Disease
Cushing’s disease, also known as hyperadrenocorticism, happens when a dog’s body makes too much of a hormone called cortisol. Cortisol helps a dog respond to stress, control weight, fight infections, and keep the blood sugar levels normal.
Pet Insurance
We have insurance for pretty much all of our worldly possessions, as well as our own lives and health, so why wouldn’t we have it for our pets as well?
Blocked Cats – What does that mean?
The term “blocked cat” actually refers to the obstruction of the urethra in a male cat. (But it is important to remember that it can happen to both dogs and cats, and also in females – just less commonly). The urethra is the tube that drains urine from the bladder and when it becomes blocked, a cat cannot pass its urine. This is an emergency situation and needs to be addressed immediately.
How to Choose The Right Dog Trainer
Dog ownership is a serious commitment that takes time and energy. Part of that commitment is to ensure that your dog has some training so that you can live with him in your community. Some type of “puppy kindergarten” or a basic obedience class is recommended as most dog owners need help in learning how to train their dogs.
A Day in the Life of a Vet Tech…
Veterinary Technicians are the cornerstone of every veterinary hospital. They walk into work in the morning never quite knowing what the day will look like, and that’s part of the challenge and joy of the job.
Patellar Luxation in Dogs
In simpler terms, “patellar luxation” means the dislocation of the kneecap. This condition occurs when the kneecap, or the patella, is dislocated from its normal position in the groove of the femur.
Corneal Ulcers
If you have ever seen a corneal ulcer, then you know how alarming and ugly they can look. Don’t worry, they are not life threatening; but they are very painful and need immediate attention.
Pet Fire Safety
As we’re all well aware, the late summer months are the peak of “wildfire season”. Most families have some sort of evacuation plan, but are your pets part of your plan? Fires, whether they are grass fires or house fires, can start and travel very quickly. Having a written out and practiced plan is the best way to keep you and your entire household safe.
Leptospirosis – What is it and how can it be prevented?
Leptospirosis is a disease caused by contact and infection of the Leptospira bacteria. These leptospires will spread throughout the entire body, reproducing in the liver, kidneys, central nervous system, eyes, and reproductive system. Although dogs are most commonly affected
National Lost Pet Prevention Month
Have you ever experienced the helpless and terrifying feeling of frantically searching for your lost pet? Maybe they got lost in town when they darted out the front door; or in the woods while out for a walk. Perhaps you were on vacation and they were lost in an unfamiliar environment.
Atopy or Atopic dermatitis
Atopic dermatitis, also known as canine atopy, is a hypersensitivity, or over-reaction, to commonplace substances in the environment. These allergens may include plant pollens, house dust mites, mold spores, etc
Immune Mediated Hemolytic Anemia (IMHA)
Most people have heard the term “anemia”, either referred to in humans or animals. Anemia is a condition that occurs when the number of red blood cells in the body falls below the normal values, or they function improperly.
Pet Dental Health Month
In recognition of February being “Pet Dental Health Month”, let’s talk about your pet’s pearly whites! Some people are unaware that their pets can actually have some of the same dental problems that they may experience. These problems include, but are not limited to: broken teeth and roots, periodontal disease, cysts or tumors in the mouth, abscesses or infected teeth, misalignment of the bite, broken jaw, etc.
Responsible pet owners Spay and Neuter
If you are a pet owner, one of the first things you should have or should be considering is the spaying or neutering of your pet. The decision to spay or neuter your pet will have a huge effect on their overall long-term health and welfare.
National Train Your Dog Month
January is here…the start of a new year and new beginnings! It also happens to be “National Train Your Dog Month”! Whether you got a new puppy for the Christmas or you have an older dog that needs a little training, this is a great time to start.
How to ensure you (and your pets) have a Happy Holiday!
The most wonderful time of the year is upon us! Christmas trees are being decorated, lights are being hung, and goodies are being baked! Oh, it’s just wonderful, isn’t it? There’s just one teensy little problem…
National Walk your Dog Week
Most dogs love the outdoors. There are so many sights, smells, and places to pee that it may seem like they go a little crazy every time that front door opens! However, an over-excited dog can be really difficult to walk. It may seem more like they’re walking you than you’re walking them.
Cat food versus Dog food: Is there a difference?
If you have a household with both a dog and a cat, then you have probably fought the never-ending battle of trying to keep the cat out of the dog food or the even more likely scenario of trying to keep the dog out of the cat food!
Therapy Dogs
Many people find the companionship found in a dog to be just what the doctor ordered. The unconditional love a dog gives can most definitely be used as a form of therapy, and many people rely heavily on their animals to get them through the stresses of everyday life.