As a dog owner, you know that your furry companion loves to explore the great outdoors. However, with this love for adventure comes the risk of tick exposure. Ticks are not only a nuisance but can also transmit serious diseases to dogs and humans. In this quick guide, we'll cover everything you need to know about ticks and how to keep your dog safe.
Ticks are small, blood-sucking parasites that belong to the arachnid family. They can be found in various habitats, including wooded areas, tall grass, and even in your backyard. Ticks feed on the blood of their hosts, which can include dogs, humans, and other mammals.
Several species of ticks can affect dogs, but the most common ones include:
Ticks can transmit various diseases to dogs, some of which can be serious or even life-threatening. The most common tick-borne diseases in dogs include:
The best way to protect your dog from tick-borne diseases is to prevent tick bites altogether. Here are some tips to help keep your dog tick-free:
If you suspect your dog has been bitten by a tick or is showing symptoms of a tick-borne disease, contact your veterinarian immediately. Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial for the best outcome. Your vet may prescribe antibiotics or other medications to help your dog recover.
Ticks may be small, but they can significantly threaten your dog's health. By understanding the types of ticks, the diseases they can transmit, and how to prevent tick bites, you can help keep your furry friend safe and healthy. Remember to use tick preventatives, check for ticks regularly, and contact your veterinarian if you have any concerns.
Don't wait until it's too late! Schedule an appointment with your local veterinarian today to discuss the best tick prevention and treatment options for your dog. Together, we can keep our furry friends happy, healthy, and tick-free!
Summer is a fantastic time for fun in the sun, but it's important not to forget about your feline friend's health and well-being. Cats can face various challenges as temperatures rise, from dehydration to pesky parasites.
In this blog post, we'll explore five simple ways to keep your cat healthy and happy throughout the summer months. So, grab a cold drink, sit back, and let's dive into some tips for a purr-fect summer!
Like humans, cats need plenty of water to stay hydrated, especially during the hot summer months. Make sure to provide your cat with multiple sources of clean, fresh water throughout your home. Consider investing in a pet water fountain, as many cats prefer running water and are more likely to drink from it.
Remember to clean your cat's water bowls daily and replenish them with fresh water. If you notice your cat isn't drinking enough, try adding a few ice cubes to their water or flavoring it with a small amount of low-sodium chicken broth.
While cats are known for their love of sunbathing, it's crucial to provide them with a cool, shaded area to escape the heat. Create a cozy retreat for your cat indoors, complete with a comfortable bed and plenty of toys.
If your cat enjoys spending time outdoors, ensure they can access a shaded area, such as a catio or a spot under a tree. You can also help your cat cool down by placing a damp towel in their favorite resting spot or gently misting them with water if they're comfortable with that.
Summertime is known as "kitten season" because it's when many cats give birth. Spaying or neutering your feline companion is important to help control the population of unwanted kittens and improve your cat's overall health.
Spaying or neutering can help reduce the risk of certain cancers, prevent undesirable behaviors like spraying and roaming, and contribute to a longer, healthier life for your cat. If your cat hasn't been spayed or neutered yet, talk to your veterinarian about scheduling the procedure before the summer heat sets in.
Fleas and ticks thrive in warm, humid environments, making summer the perfect time for these pesky parasites to invade your cat's fur. Not only can fleas and ticks cause discomfort for your cat, but they can also transmit diseases and cause anemia.
To protect your cat, use a veterinarian-recommended flea and tick prevention product, such as spot-on treatments, collars, or oral medications. Remember to apply these products consistently throughout the summer and check your cat's fur regularly for any signs of infestation. If you notice fleas or ticks on your cat, consult your veterinarian for the best course of action.
Summer is an excellent time to schedule your cat's annual veterinary check-up. Regular visits to the vet can help detect and prevent potential health issues before they become more serious. During the check-up, your veterinarian will perform a thorough physical examination, update your cat's vaccinations, and discuss any concerns you may have about your cat's health or behavior. It's also a good opportunity to ask your vet about parasite prevention, grooming tips, and any other summer-related questions you may have. By staying on top of your cat's healthcare, you can ensure they remain healthy and happy all summer long.
Following these five simple tips can help your cat enjoy a healthy, happy summer. Remember, a little extra care and attention can go a long way in ensuring your feline friend stays cool, hydrated, and free from pesky parasites. So, here's to a summer filled with purrs, playtime, and plenty of love!
As a pet parent, providing regular veterinarian care for your dog is one of your most important responsibilities. Today, we will look at what constitutes regular veterinary care, when an injury or illness should require an emergency vet visit, and how to find the right veterinarian for your pet.
Dogs need regular veterinary care throughout their lives to ensure health and longevity. Puppies need to be seen by a veterinarian every three or four weeks until they reach about four months of age, while adult dogs need checkups at least once a year.
During a puppy's vet visit, it will be checked for any type of abnormality and general alertness. Your vet will also pay special attention to signs of congenital defects that your puppy may be predisposed to due to its specific breed.
Common veterinary care for puppies includes:
Healthy adult dogs should have a checkup with a veterinarian at least once a year. As a dog ages and becomes geriatric, this should increase to at least twice a year. If your dog has chronic issues that must be treated, follow your veterinarian's advice about the frequency of visits to ensure your dog stays healthy.
Regular veterinary care for adult dogs includes:
Having a sick or injured dog can be one of the scariest and most stressful experiences for a pet parent. Emergency veterinarians are here to help in these situations.
If your dog shows signs of illness, pain, or distress, you should contact an emergency veterinarian immediately.
Some common emergencies dogs have include:
A Note About Expenses: Like human medical expenses, emergency vet visits come with costs and are often a surprise. Many people purchase medical insurance for their dogs to prevent financial concerns associated with emergency medical issues.
Choosing the right veterinarian for your dog and your family is important. We will always want our fur babies to have the best care, so start with ensuring that any veterinarian you take your dog to has the proper licenses and credentials.
It is best if your first vet visit isn’t in an emergency situation. It is far better for your dog if it has experienced regular veterinary care and has a rapport with your family vet.
Always remember that it is okay to ask questions. Make sure that you understand any information related to your dog's health and care very clearly. Be sure to ask your veterinarian about any concerns you have about your dog's care, including those related to their diet, other pets in the home, and long-term treatments.
Visiting your local veterinarian is a valuable tool in keeping your dog healthy. If your dog needs a checkup, don’t wait! Schedule a vet visit today.
Dogs love summer as much as we do. As the sun climbs higher and the days grow warmer, it's time to gear up for some fun in the sun with our furry companions! From ensuring they stay cool and hydrated to planning pet-friendly getaways, getting our dogs ready for the hot weather months is essential. Join us as we explore how to keep our canine pals safe, happy, and ready for all the summertime adventures ahead!
During summer, dogs are at risk of overheating, which can be dangerous. It's important to take precautions to prevent this. Dogs vary in their ability to handle heat, so know your dog's needs. Some may need to avoid the midday sun and exercise during cooler times like morning or evening.
If your dog is outdoors with you, ensure there's a shaded area for them to rest. Remember, dogs feel heat more intensely than humans, so don't assume they're fine just because you're enjoying the sun.
Never leave dogs in hot cars or similar situations. This can be fatal and should never happen.
The summer months are a time for vacations and socializing. Whether it is a trip to a kennel while you are away, doggy daycare, or play dates at a local dog park, you want to keep your pet healthy while they interact with others. Make sure you talk to your local veterinarian to make sure that all of your dog’s vaccinations are up to date.
Dogs can become dehydrated rapidly, especially in hot summer weather. Always make sure your dog has plenty of water available, which many people overlook when on the go. There are various products on the market, such as water bottles with flip-out troughs or spill-proof bowls, designed for traveling with pets. You can find these at specialty pet stores and online.
Whether your dog is joining you on vacation or having their own getaway, it's wise to pack familiar items. New environments can stress dogs out, especially if their owners aren't present. Bringing their bed or some familiar toys can make them feel more comfortable. Our Border Collies won't budge without their cherished (albeit smelly) blanket!
There are numerous dog-friendly businesses nationwide, easily accessible through online searches. While self-catering is a common choice for those traveling with dogs, many hotels also accommodate pets, offering an alternative option.
Nothing spoils a summer outing faster than discovering your dog isn't allowed, so thorough planning beforehand is essential.
Dogs are curious creatures and often poke their noses where they shouldn't. Bee and wasp stings pose a serious risk to dogs, especially around the mouth and face. Be vigilant around areas where wasps frequent, like compost heaps or fallen fruit, and keep your dog away. If you spot a nest within reach of your dog, take immediate action to prevent any disturbance.
As we venture into the spring and summer months, remember that keeping our dogs safe and comfortable during the hot months is a top priority. With a little preparation and attention to their needs, we can ensure that our canine friends enjoy every moment of the sunny season by our side. Here's to many more wag-filled adventures together!
Welcome, pet parents, to our cozy corner of the internet where we discuss all things furry, cuddly, and safe! Today, we're tackling a topic that's close to every pet owner's heart: keeping our beloved companions out of harm's way. Specifically, we're diving into the curious case of pets and kitchen safety. So grab a cup of tea, snuggle up with your furry friend, and let's embark on this paw-some journey together!
Ah, the kitchen – the heart of the home, the place where delicious aromas waft through the air and culinary masterpieces come to life. But for our four-legged friends, it can also be a perilous playground filled with potential hazards.
Just imagine while you're whipping up a gourmet meal, lost in the rhythm of chopping, sautéing, and simmering, you suddenly hear a strange noise. It’s a choking sound coming from behind you. You spin around to find your furry friend with their head stuck in the cookie jar, gasping for air. Panic sets in as you rush to their rescue, but fear not – with a few simple precautions, we can ensure that our pets stay safe in the kitchen.
Let's face it – our pets are curious creatures with insatiable appetites. Whether it's the tantalizing aroma of freshly baked cookies or the irresistible scent of sizzling bacon, our furry friends are drawn to the kitchen like moths to a flame. But while it's tempting to share our culinary delights with them, it's important to exercise great caution.
Avoid leaving food unattended on countertops or tables where your pet can easily reach it. Invest in pet-proof containers for storing snacks and treats, and be mindful of ingredients that could be harmful to your furry friend, such as chocolate, grapes, and onions.
Cooking can be a chaotic affair, with pots bubbling, pans sizzling, and ingredients flying every which way. Amid all this commotion, it's easy for our pets to get underfoot – with potentially disastrous consequences.
To keep your furry friend safe, designate a pet-free zone in the kitchen where they can't wander into harm's way. Consider installing baby gates or barriers to prevent access to hazardous areas, and always keep pot handles turned away from the edge of the stove to avoid accidental spills.
From stray crumbs to slippery spills, the kitchen floor can be a minefield of hazards for our four-legged friends. One wrong step could result in a slip, trip, or fall – not to mention the risk of ingesting something harmful.
Make it a habit to clean up spills and crumbs promptly, and consider investing in a pet-friendly vacuum cleaner to keep your floors clean and debris-free. Keep trash cans securely lidded to prevent scavenging, and be mindful of potential choking hazards such as bones, pits, and plastic packaging.
In the grand tapestry of life, our pets are the beloved companions who weave joy, laughter, and unconditional love into our everyday existence. As pet parents, it's our responsibility to ensure their safety and well-being – especially in the heart of the home, where culinary adventures abound.
By taking a few simple precautions and keeping a watchful eye on our furry friends, we can create a safe and nurturing environment where they can thrive. So the next time you find yourself cooking up a storm in the kitchen, take a moment to pause, look around, and make sure your beloved companion isn't choking by the stove. After all, a little extra vigilance today could mean a lifetime of happiness and health for your furry friend tomorrow. Happy cooking – and pet parenting!
Sometimes, our dogs do weird things. Like biting their dirty paws or rolling around in puddles. Dogs might even drink from toilets or lick their butts. In some cases, your pup might eat their own poop, or even worse, the poop of another dog or animal. For any pet owner, that's pretty gross and can be a cause for concern.
But why do dogs eat poop? Well, there are a bunch of reasons. Even though it might seem nasty to us humans, your dog's reasons for doing it might really surprise you.
You should be concerned if your dog eats poop. While it's a relatively common behavior in dogs, known as coprophagy, it can be indicative of various issues that warrant attention. Here are some reasons to be concerned:
There is a risk that your dog can get sick from eating poop. Consuming feces exposes your dog to potential health hazards, including:
To minimize the risk of your dog getting sick from eating poop:
If you observe your dog consistently engaging in poop-eating behavior, you should consult your local veterinarian. They can help determine the underlying cause and provide guidance on how to address the issue, whether it be through dietary changes, behavioral training, or medical intervention.
Have you noticed that your dog eats grass and wondered just how normal it is? The answer to this question is a little more nuanced than just saying yes it is normal or no it is not. However, for most pet parents, there is nothing to worry about.
If you have always known your dog to eat grass every day when they go out or they normally graze like a cow, they are probably bored or just like grass. However, if your dog is eating grass and not food, or they have started eating grass all of a sudden, there is likely a reason for it.
A lot of dogs eat grass because they enjoy eating grass. They simply like the fresh greenery outside and enjoy how it tastes. However, for some dogs, it could be an indicator of an upset stomach a lack of fiber, or another type of dietary deficiency.
Here are some common questions that dog owners ask about their pets eating grass.
Should I let my dog eat grass when they’re sick?
Eating grass can cause vomiting for some dogs. In many cases, a dog will eat grass instinctively to soothe an upset stomach. This is not generally considered harmful.
How long after eating grass will a dog vomit?
Only about a quarter of all dogs vomit after eating grass. Most of the time it is caused by them gagging on the long strands of grass, so the incidence occurs immediately.
Why is my dog eating grass and throwing up?
If your dog is eating grass and throwing up it is a likely indication of a stomach problem and you should consult your local veterinarian.
Why is my dog eating grass and having diarrhea?
If your dog is eating grass and having diarrhea it is a likely indication of a stomach problem and you should consult your local veterinarian.
Should I stop my dog from eating grass?
There is no need to stop your otherwise healthy dog from eating grass. However, you should stop your dog from eating any grass that has been treated with a fertilizer, pesticide or other chemical as these types of chemicals are generally poisonous to dogs.
Is there a good substitute for a dog eating grass?
If you are concerned about toxins or just prefer that your dog not eat grass there are substitutes on the market ranging from specialty grasses to expensive herbal substitutes. Many pet owners opt to feed their dogs other vegetables instead, such as lettuce, celery, and even carrots.
It can be okay for dogs to eat grass, but only if you are sure that it is not due to underlying gastrointestinal issues. If you find that your dog is eating grass, it is best to consult your local veterinarian and discuss your dog's bowel habits, dietary indiscretions, and food and treats.
As your companion pet ages, they face increased health concerns just like their human companions do. You may watch your senior pet and worry that they might be aging and losing some of their cognitive abilities. Sight, hearing, and blood sugar have all become common concerns.
Across the country, local veterinarians are hearing more and more people ask if their pet can get dementia.
Just like humans, dogs and cats can develop dementia as they age. Veterinarians call this Cognitive Dysfunction Syndrome.
It is a disease that is comparable to Alzheimer's in humans. The disease begins to onset as a dog ages. “CDS” is a neurological degenerative disorder of senior dogs and cats characterized by gradual cognitive decline. Cognitive Dysfunction Syndrome is the official name for what we might commonly call “doggy/kitty dementia”.
The exact age at which any dog might start to experience symptoms of dementia varies. Studies have shown that cognitive decline can start as early as 10 years of age in cats and dogs.
To rule out other causes of your pet's symptoms, the veterinarian may use additional tools such as blood and urine tests.
Some of the first signs of dementia that many people notice are their pets staring at walls or looking off into space. Other common signs people tend to notice are not knowing their owners are in the same room or pacing around a lot with no sense of direction or reason.
In addition to disorientation, confusion, and increased anxiety, pets dealing with this form of dementia may no longer respond to their name, stop playing, and become more irritable.
(Other symptoms includeà Waking up in the night; increased daytime sleeping, Inactivity
Increased vocalization, often at night) inappropriate urination or defecation in the house, lethargy, decreased interest in play or other activities, decreased responsiveness to the owner and other pets, and abnormal sleep patterns).
Most of the time they live for about two years after diagnosis when they have dementia, sometimes longer. Much like with humans, when a dog or cat is diagnosed with dementia, quality of life should take the focus over quantity of years. Work with your family’s veterinarian to ensure your pet is as content and comfortable as possible.
Work with your veterinarian to find the right supplements and medications to support your dog’s health. Provide your dog with a safe but stimulating environment and keep them on a regular routine. These things will best help them cope with developing dementia.
As with many diseases found in both humans and animals, there is no guarantee for avoiding some diseases. When it comes to dementia in dogs and cats there are genetics and some environmental factors that can’t be controlled.
However, there are many things that you can do to help your pet have a better chance of living a longer, healthier, and happier life. Quality food and clean drinking water are an absolute must for a healthy dog. So is lots of exercise and mental stimulation.
One of the best things you can do for yourself, and your pet is to exercise and play with them. It will help you both have a better, longer life.
If you notice your pet behaving differently or in a way you do not understand, do not hesitate to contact your local veterinarian. Catching problems early gives your pet a better chance to overcome them.
Vaccines help keep your dog healthy by protecting them from potentially deadly diseases. Having your dog vaccinated also helps protect other dogs and even humans in some cases.
This doesn’t mean that every vaccine is right for every dog on an annual basis. Here is a look at which vaccines are available for your dog and when they might need them.
| Vaccine Type | Frequency |
| Rabies (Required, see your state website for specific laws) | Every 1 to 3 years after the initial vaccine |
| DHPP (vaccines for distemper, adenovirus, parainfluenza, and parvovirus) | Every 1 to 2 years |
| Bordetella (Kennel Cough) | Every 6 months to 1 year |
| Influenza, Coronavirus, Leptospirosis, Lyme disease | As needed based on lifestyle and location |
Depending on the type of vaccine your vet uses and the state laws where you live, your dog will need a rabies shot every one to three years. Additionally, they will need their DHPP every one to two years as well.
If you board your dog anywhere, have them groomed, or for any other reason have them around other dogs outside your household, you should have them vaccinated for Bordetella every six months to a year.
Rabies vaccines are required by law in all but two states. Ohio mandates rabies vaccines by county so they are still required, just not by state law. Hawaii has irradicated rabies from their islands. They require long quarantine periods before bringing pets into the state. If you are not a resident of Hawaii, it is likely that a rabies vaccine is required for your dog where you live.
DHPP is not legally required, but it is required for taking your dog into almost any public space that welcomes dogs. Most animal hospitals, kennels, and groomers also require a Bordetella vaccine.
Vaccines for diseases like Influenza, Coronavirus, Leptospirosis, and Lyme disease are not required but may be needed under certain circumstances. For example, Lyme disease is only prevalent in certain regions making the vaccine very important to some but not others.
There is no upper age limit on vaccinating dogs. Vaccines help protect dogs from harmful diseases and are needed throughout their lives. There is no evidence that vaccines are particularly risky or in any way decrease in benefit to senior dogs.
Your senior dog should be vaccinated on the same adult dog schedule they have been on unless otherwise directed by your local veterinarian.
You will need to keep your dog’s vaccines up to date from puppyhood throughout adulthood. Talk to your veterinarian about your dog and the lifestyle that your household leads. They will help you decide which vaccines are right for your dog. They will also help you decide how often your dog should receive vaccines.
If you have any questions or concerns about having your dog vaccinated ask your local veterinarian. They will help you chart the right path for your pet’s optimal health.
Arthritis is the leading cause of pain in older pets. No one wants their pet to hurt, so treating the condition is a top priority.
Your pet’s body works much as the human body does. As your pet ages, they face many of the same complications and degenerative diseases like osteoarthritis. This kind of arthritis causes deterioration of the joints which leads to pain in humans, cats, and dogs.
You may notice that your pet is having a problem with joint pain if you see them walking or moving gingerly, over-grooming a certain spot, or even showing outward signs like crying or whimpering. Your veterinarian can diagnose a problem like arthritis.
If you suspect that your four-legged friend has arthritis, you should schedule an appointment with your local veterinarian. It is a good idea to see your veterinarian anytime your pet behaves in an unusual way or a way you don’t understand. It could be a sign of an underlying medical issue.
If your cat or dog has arthritis, here are three ways that you can make a difference in how they feel every day.
What your pet eats plays a huge role in how they feel. You can talk to your veterinarian about adding supplements and making changes to your pet’s food. Herbal supplements, glucosamine, and fish oil have all shown positive results for pets.
Just like older people, sometimes older animals need help with pain management. Never give your pet medicine meant for a human. Talk to your veterinarian about how to help your pet manage pain.
Veterinarians can prescribe medicine that will help control pain. Many vet offices can even use alternative pain management therapies on your pet like laser therapy, massage, and even stem cell therapy.
It may sound kind of corny at first, but if you put a little bit of thought into it, you can make a lot of small changes to your pet’s lifestyle that will make a big difference in how they feel. You live with your pet and know them best, so you are likely to be the one who will notice what they need most on a daily basis.
For example, if you notice your dog is struggling with the stairs, you might consider building him a ramp. Adding an extra step to get up in bed can help a dog who is having a hard time climbing into the bed as they get older. Both dogs and cats with arthritis can really benefit from a heated bed to help relieve their aches and pains as they rest.
If your pet has arthritis they do not have to suffer from pain. Veterinarians can help you diagnose and treat what is bothering your pet. Schedule an appointment with your local veterinarian now if you suspect your pet needs help with arthritis.
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