Dog Breed Profile: Harrier

Harriers used to hunt foxes and hares, and although they're not too popular today, their excellent smelling sense and work ethic makes them perfect hunting partners. Some people call them "beagles on steroids," and their playful, active spirit won't thrive in apartments. These dogs do best with enough space to let them consume high energy. But overall, they're generally affectionate, especially around children and fellow pups. Harriers are healthy, and grooming them is easy. They're a perfect fit for active families.

Harriers were lively and active scenthounds who primarily targeted foxes/hares in a large pack back in their hunting days. They do well as family companions, but this breed is not too common these days. In fact, they're among the AKC's rarest breeds. For example, in 1994, only 4 Harrier litters were born in the US, which resulted in 31 puppies.

Take your pet to your animal hospital Marietta, GA for regular health and dental checks. 

Exercise And Training Needs Of Afghan Hounds

 

Afghans were bred to chase and hunt prey by sight. Because of that, they tend to run off chasing prey, and it isn't a good idea to leave them off-leash. Typically, short walks aren't enough exercise; mature Afghans need long runs. Owners should let them run freely many times each week inside a large but enclosed area. Because they're tall and strong, Afghans are great jumpers. Thus, their exercise area should be enclosed by a high fence.

Although they're independent and aloof, Afghans can be affectionate and loyal. With that, it's hard for them to adjust to their new home. But you can housetrain them easily since they like pleasing humans. Training them for basic commands is already enough if you do not aim for obedience/agility competitions. Generally, the Afghan Hounds' instinct to hunt and chase prey at full speed can't be eliminated by training.

Your pet will benefit from regular health and wellness checks at your pet hospital Marietta, GA. Click here to know more about their services.

Afghan Hounds

 

Although they can easily draw people's attention, Afghan Hounds are aloof, dignified, and aristocrat-looking. But despite their regal appearance, they can also be endearing, funny, and loyal pets.

Afghan Hounds have been popular for their elegant appearance even during ancient times. But their silky and flowing coat isn't only for show, but it's also a protection against the harsh weather in the regions where Afghans have originated. Beneath their glamorous look outside, Afghans are actually powerful and agile, reaching 27 inches height from the shoulder— great for a day of hunting. Their paw pads also serve as shock absorbers for the punishing terrain of the land where they originated. Afghans are special breeds for equally special people. Breed experts say that Afghan Hounds aren't for everyone. But when combined with the right dog owner, Afghan Hounds can actually be the best pets.

Take a proactive approach to your pet’s health with regular health and wellness checks at your nearest animal hospital Marietta, GA.

Precautions When Feeding Cats Eggs

 

Understand that eggs are one of the most nutritious food items you and your cat can enjoy. However, be sure to enjoy eggs that are well-cooked when you do not want to suffer from any food poisoning or bacterial infection.

Remember that eggs contain salmonella, a bacterium that can harm you or your cat when you consume raw eggs. So, always cook the eggs before serving them to your feline friend. But, experts advise not to overdo or overcook your eggs.

Here are some tips to guide you in feeding your cats cooked eggs:

Give your cat a moderate quantity of eggs, without going overboard because a normal cat only needs around 250 calories daily. Know that an egg contains 70 to 80 calories.

When you intend to change the food of your cat from a commercial product to a home-cooked diet. So, better work with your veterinarian Marietta, GA or a veterinary nutritionist to assist you with the correct type and amount of nutrients your furry feline needs.

Teaching Your Dog To Sit

 

Does your canine companion know basic obedience commands? The most important ones for your pup to learn are Sit, Stay, Come, Heel, and Lay Down. Most people find it easiest to start with the command to Sit, because it's the easiest for your canine companion to learn.

Start by holding a treat over your canine pal's head. He'll naturally look up. If you start moving it towards his tail, he'll sit down to keep his eyes on the prize. When he does, say 'Sit' and give him his prize. It's fine to say the command after he sits. Keep doing this, and he'll eventually associate the word with the desired action. In time, you can start limiting the treats. You don't want to completely stop with them, just don't offer them every time.

Visit your animal hospital Marietta, GA regularly for wellness care. This is also a great source for advice. Make an appointment today!

Main Reason Why Your Cat Has Urinary Obstructions In Autumn

 

Cats can develop feline urethral obstruction or FUO. This health condition refers to small stones (or uroliths) blocking the urine’s passage from the urinary bladder to the urethra. The cat cannot pee when the urinary bladder is blocked. A cat suffering from FUO should be brought to the vet immediately to prevent dire consequences. Male cats are more likely to develop FUO, especially during autumn. According to experts, cats tend to drink more water in summer because it’s hot. But they no longer drink as much in the next season, autumn, because the weather is much colder. When there is not enough liquid in the cat’s body, urine becomes more concentrated. When this happens, cells, mucus, and protein are likely to develop in the body. These will eventually harden to create a blockage in the urinary tract.

But keep in mind that FUO is likely to occur any time of the year. So if you notice that your kitty’s elimination habit has changed, you should bring her to your pet clinic Marietta GA immediately.

 

Warning Signs That Introducing A New Pet Is Not Going Well

 

While there are dogs and cats that do not mind sharing the same living area, there are also those that are not open to peaceful coexistence.  Below are some forewarning indications of possible aggressive and hostile behaviors that the pet owner should be aware of:

●Your dog focuses so much on your cat or even just the area where the cat stays. Your dog could suddenly lunge whenever the cat is seen.

●Your cat swatting, hissing, or growling at the dog even though they have been in close proximity with one another for a substantial amount of time.

If a new pet is to be introduced to your home, allow for ample time for both new and current pets to get accustomed to each other.  There should be a transition phase between them to give them time.  For the initial days or even weeks, you will need to keep them confined in separate areas of the house.  You will need to supervise closely each interaction between new and current pets so that if any aggression is displayed, you can quickly intervene.

Consult with your veterinarian Marietta, GA should you have issues or concerns with the behavior of your pets.

Set an appointment here: https://smyrnaveterinary.com/.

Typical Cat Owner Mistakes to Avoid

 

It takes courage and lifelong commitment to share your home with a pet cat. Like humans, cats have their own basic needs that you need to meet regularly. Cats are indeed independent animals, but they would still benefit and need a cat owner's care and attention. By being aware of the common mistakes that cat owners make, you will be able to avoid them and make your owner-and-cat relationship a lot better.

Declawing

Declawing is not really necessary. Declawing is a painful procedure for cats. You should consider other alternatives to declawing.

Considering a cat as a kind of property

A cat is not a thing or property. Treat it with care and commitment.

Quantity over quality when it comes to cat food choices

Money is hard to come by but you should not skimp on your beloved cat's food. Choose the best high-quality cat food you can afford and find.

Your local pet clinic Marietta GA is a valuable resource about your pet’s health and well-being.

Tips For Preparing Dogs For Colder Weather

 

The winter months can be unforgiving in many parts of the US and Canada. In general, dogs will feel uncomfortable when temperatures dip below 0°C. In this weather, dogs should be confined indoors where it’s warm and just allow them outdoors for some brief exercise and to heed the call of nature. Smaller dogs and those with short hair coats are more vulnerable to the cold compared to larger canine breeds or those with thick hair coats. Senior dogs are also prone to suffer adverse effects compared to younger dogs. Always keep in mind, however, that even with a thick hair coat, a dog’s ears, tail, tails, nose, and paws are very much exposed to the cold. Here are some tips to keep your dog warm and safe this winter. 

● Give your pet a warm, cozy bed. 

● Some breeds, like Chihuahuas and whippets, will benefit from a dog sweater or jacket. 

● Limit your dog’s time outdoors to protect him from frostbite

● After spending time outdoors, protect, and inspect your dog’s paws for signs of frostbite, snow, salts, or antifreeze. 

● Protect your pet against hypothermia

A dog that is showing signs of severe hypothermia will need immediate medical intervention. Bring your pet to the nearest emergency veterinary clinic Marietta GA ASAP.

Outdoor play and your canine companion

There are a lot of different things you can do with your pet and you plan to make the most of each of them. What should you keep in mind when playing outside with your canine companion?

Your little fur ball needs some time outside every day in order to get some fresh air and explore the great outdoors. This will likely be when she gets the majority of her exercise, so keep in mind that the activities you offer her should get her up and moving while she isn’t hindered by the confines of your living space. You should also take the time to think about her mental stimulation as well, since your outdoor space offers her different experiences than your indoor areas do, widening her territory to include a lot of different experiences. For additional information, please contact your local vets Marietta GA.

Foods to keep away from your canine companion

Your dog tends to be interested in just about any food he can get his paws on, but this doesn’t mean he can safely consume everything he comes across. In fact, there are likely some foods in your home that can be downright dangerous to him. What foods should you keep away from your canine companion?

Your pet needs you to be aware of the fact that some foods that you eat may impact her body differently. It will be important to keep caffeine and alcohol away from your pet, as well as plenty of other things. This will include grapes, garlic, and onion.  Be sure to only feed your pet foods that have been approved by her veterinarian to prevent any issues and to help your furry friend stay strong and healthy. Your local veterinary clinic Marietta, GA can help you care for your pet. Learn more here.

Feline coat basics

You are going to be a cat owner soon and you are eager to learn all you can about your new addition and feline friends in general. What should you know about their coats in order to help care for them properly?

There are a lot of different types of cats out there and this means that there are a lot of different coat types as well. Cats can range from hairless to longhaired, and this means that some of the different varieties will be more obvious than others. There are fluffy coats and bristly coats and both smooth and curly varieties. To care for your pet’s coat properly, you will need to make sure to understand what type of fur she has and what is needed to keep it in top shape. For more information, please contact your local vet clinic Marietta, GA.

Pros And Cons Of Giant Dog Breeds

Many dogs that are classified as giant breeds weigh over 100 pounds. Despite their sizes, these dogs are gentle and very loyal. Some of these dogs make ideal pets for families with kids. They can also be easy to train and won’t need as much physical activity because their energy levels are not very high. But having a giant dog breed in the home means there should be enough space for everyone and everything in the household. It will also mean a bigger budget for food, pet supplies like crate, collar, leash, food and water bowls, etc. If your pet has large jowls, you should be prepared to deal with copious amounts of drool. Many of these dogs are also prone to various congenital diseases that can affect major organs of the body. Compared to most dogs, these gentle giants have shorter lifespans. The average lifespan of most dogs is 12-15 years while it’s only 6-10 years for the giant breeds.

Take your pet to your veterinarians Marietta, GA for regular wellness checks to ensure his health and well-being.   

Why Kittens Find Litter Appealing?

Cats possess a very keen sense of curiosity and they use their senses to explore every nook and cranny in their environment. Thus, it is quite common for kittens to try the litter in the litter tray or box because it is one way to get familiar with everything they encounter in their new home. The behavior may be quite normal among newly weaned kittens, but there are certain types of litter that can be dangerous to cats. Clumping litter is made up of clay, which can easily lodge and obstruct the digestive passage. This is an important reason why this type of litter should never be used in kittens younger than 4 months old. But if you noticed your adult cat eating the litter in the box or tray, it may be an indication of a specific nutritional deficiency or health problem. This is one important reason to have your pet checked out by your Marietta, GA vet.