2021 Holiday Hazards
Holiday Hazards By Dr. Caroline Frank As we approach the time of the year to deck the halls and spread yule tide cheer, our 4-legged friends must be watched with a close eye as to not end up on the Veterinarian’s naughty list. Not only do we need to worry about the wonderful food we humans celebrate with during this time, but also our decor. Decorations and trimmings can be hazardous to our beloved 4-legged friends too. The 3 main groups of holiday hazards are food, plants, and decor.
Otitis – Ear Infections in Dogs and Cats
by Kelly Stalpes, DVM Ever notice your dog or cat scratching or rubbing at their ears? Or shaking their head? Red, itchy ears are a common reason for our small animal companions to visit the vet, and the medical name for this condition is otitis. Otitis externa is inflammation of the external ear canal, while otitis media is inflammation of the middle ear.
12 Things Your Pet Could Be Allergic To
Itching, watery eyes, and sneezing are all allergy symptoms that our pets may have to deal with, especially in spring and summer when seasonal allergies are at their peak. But even though pet allergies are usually easy to spot, many pet owners are left wondering exactly what caused them.
Can Dogs Get Sunburnt? Dog Sunburn Signs, Symptoms, and When to See Your Veterinarian
When temperatures start to heat up and the days grow longer, people and their pets naturally begin spending more time outdoors exploring nature, catching up on yard chores, or simply soaking up the sunshine. Just like us, most dogs enjoy the warmer weather. As pet parents, we fill their days with walks, games of fetch, and sunbathing while we take care of all the yard chores we previously mentioned.
Why An Annual Pet Blood Test Can Be a Lifesaver (And What It Detects)
We all want our dogs and cats to live long and healthy lives, but what if I told you that there was a chance that your pet could be suffering from silent health issues that you may not even notice? Though your pet may be acting like their normal, energetic, and affectionate self, the truth is, they could be sick or in pain without you even realizing it. If that concerns you, rest assured there's something your veterinarian can do to ease your mind and make sure your pet is in good health: an annual pet blood test.
Why Does My Dog Lick So Much? Decoding Dog Licking Behaviors
As veterinarians, we often get asked about a common canine behavior: licking. Licking is a natural and normal behavior for dogs, allowing them to groom, investigate their surroundings, and even communicate with other people and pets. Whether it's a quick swipe of the tongue or a full-on facial bath, dogs lick for a variety of reasons – some you might not even expect. Let's explore some of the most common explanations behind this behavior and talk about when owners should be concerned about excessive licking in dogs.
Annual Exams for Cats: Why They’re Just as Important as Dog Checkups
Cats are true masters of disguise, fitting into the smallest spaces, concealing themselves in hard-to-find places, and even hiding their pain from their owners. It can be quite challenging to tell when your feline friend needs a bit of medical attention. This may explain why more than 90% of dog owners make sure to take their pups to the vet each year, while only around 40% of cat owners do the same.
9 Ways to Manage Cat Anxiety and Stress at Home
Many people assume that cats lead exceptionally carefree lives, but the truth is they are surprisingly sensitive creatures. Stress and anxiety can affect cats more than we realize, often triggered by subtle changes in their environment or routine.
Osteosarcoma in Dogs: Signs, Treatment, and What Owners Need to Know
If you have a dog, you most likely have seen them limp or refuse to put weight on a foot at some point. Dogs run, jump, and sometimes take a risky tumble, leaving them a bit stiff for a day or two. Most of the time, a quick vet visit brings reassurance that it’s nothing but a tweak. Unfortunately, that’s not always the case. For some dogs, what causes a limp or limb pain can be much more serious than a fall in the yard or stumbling off the sofa; it could be cancer.
Filter Failure: What Happens When a Pet’s Kidneys Can't Keep Up
A Guide For Pet Owners Learning About Kidney Disease In Cats And Dogs When we think about vital organs required for life in most animals, the heart may be our first thought. However, there are organs just as important that don’t quite get the same amount of attention, like the kidneys. In our pets, the kidneys filter waste, balance internal fluids, regulate and produce hormones for red blood cell production, and participate in blood pressure regulation.