Do Birds Blink?

 

Have you ever wondered if birds blink? You may have watched them for a long period of time only to see them slightly closing their eyes, but is it really blinking? Birds, reptiles, and some amphibians do blink, but they do so a little different from people and other animals. For instance, birds blink with something called a nictitating membrane. They blink with this membrane from one side of the eye to the other.  Birds also have a third eyelid that operates in a way that enables the bird’s eye to remain moist and not dry out. The blinking keeps the moisture going via tears and lubricant that the eyes secrete. The moving of the third eyelid gives the eye that “blink” look as well. This is most likely what you’ve witnessed when watching your bird for a long period of time. Learn more here or call your vets Greater Cincinnati.

Myxomatosis In Rabbits

 

Myxomatosis in rabbits is caused by a virus. It is a mosquito- or flea-borne infection that is highly contagious and usually fatal. Close contact with an infected rabbit is also an important avenue of transmission. Myxomatosis is an important cause or mortality in rabbits. All rabbits are susceptible to the infection regardless of whether they are confined indoors or allowed to venture outdoors. Affected rabbits have red swollen eyes, fever, conjunctivitis, appetite loss, and are lethargic. Rabbits that are not vaccinated against myxomatosis won’t likely survive an infection. When the infection is present, there is no cure. Only supportive treatment is given in the form of fluids, antibiotics, and pain meds to help alleviate symptoms. Even with supportive care, the chances of surviving myxomatosis is very nil thus, euthanasia is usually recommended.

Speak with your vet Thorold, ON about the best way to protect your pet rabbit from important health issues. Schedule an appointment today!

Feeding Your Puppy

Consistency is important so feed your puppy what he ate before you adopted him for a few days. Then you can change to a food of your choice. Don’t rush this transition or you could upset your puppy’s stomach. Select a high-quality fully nutritional puppy food and mix it with his other food. Adjust the ratio over time. Canned dog food is high in fat so consider a dry or semi-moist kibble instead. Review the puppy food package to understand recommended amounts so you don’t overfeed your puppy. Don’t give your puppy table scraps. He could suffer with diarrhea from eating human food and some of these foods can be dangerous or fatal to your puppy.  And feeding your dog table scraps will encourage begging. Use dog-safe treats sparingly for training and for dental hygiene only. Ensure that your puppy has access to fresh, clean water at all times. Learn more from your vet clinic San Antonio, TX.

Symptoms Of Demodectic Mange In Dogs

 

Demodectic mange is caused by mites (Demodex canis) that live in the hair follicles of dogs. Puppies get the mites from their during during the first few days after being born. The mange don't cause any signs in healthy pets but when a dog’s immune system become compromised, the mites multiply and invade the skin tissues. Certain genetic factors can also make a dog more susceptible to demodectic mange compared to other dogs. The problem is also common in senior dogs whose immune systems are depressed. There are 3 recognized forms of demodectic mange in dogs--localized demodicosis, generalized demodicosis, and demodectic podordermatitis (only the dog’s paws are affected). Stress is an important predisposing factor of the problem. Cases of localized demodicosis have a good chance of full recovery, however those with generalized demodicosis may need lifetime medication. If your dog has been diagnosed with demodectic mange, speak with your vet Roanoke, VA about treatment options that are available.

  

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

Training Your Dog to Sit on Command

 

Training your dog to sit on command is a very basic part of obedience training and often a prerequisite for more advanced commands. It also gives you a way to get your dog under control quickly. Start by getting down to your dog’s level as you hold a food treat in front of his nose to get his attention. Raise the treat up and over his head so that he needs to lower his rear end to continue following the treat. Say your dog’s name and the SIT command. As soon as his rear end touches the floor, give him the treat and lots of praise. Gradually increase the time between the touch down and delivering the treat as you practice. Reduce and then eventually eliminate the treats so your dog sits on your command and praise alone. Be patient. For more information, contact your best vet Lexington, KY.

Does your pet know she is a member of your family?

 

You love having a pet in your life and you really enjoy the time you get to spend with her. It’s important to you that she is able to feel included in different aspects of your life and that she knows she is a part of your family.

To make sure she is able to understand this, take the time to think about what you can do to help her feel loved. Caring for her and meeting her needs will be a big part of this, but she will need more than this to know just how important she is. Make sure she has some close attention each day where you are really able to engage with her. This will help to build your relationship so she knows she is welcome in your home. Your local  reputed veterinary clinic Oconomowoc, WI can offer additional advice.