Gingivitis in Dogs Like the German Shepherd

 

Did you know that gingivitis is not just a dental disease associated with people, but it can also affect canines and felines and other animals? If your German Shepherd has bad breath or is having trouble chewing or eating then give your vet a call to schedule an exam. Your pup may have gingivitis or he could be developing an illness. Your vet should be able to find out the root of the trouble. Generally, gingivitis will also cause inflammation and irritation to the gums. It occurs when plaque or food and debris builds up on the gums. Advanced gingivitis occurs when plaque plus a calculus build up is present on the gums causing severe redness, irritation, and inflammation. Plaque (or food build-up) is not always present at the beginning stages, but can appear if action is not taken. Call your vet Roanoke, VA to learn more. 

When Should You Put Your Dog On A Muzzle

 

On some occasions, you will have to put a muzzle on your dog. Even if you think that your dog is well-behaved, you still need to cover his mouth.

Some states require that dogs have a muzzle when they go to a public place. This requirement is breed-specific legislation (BSL) and must be followed accordingly. Even if you think that your dog is well-behaved, you still need to follow the law. If not, your dog might be impounded.

When going on a walk, some dogs like to poke their noses in almost everything they see. But this is not advisable because the dog might ingest something dirty and get an upset stomach later on. Putting on a muzzle might temporarily solve the problem. But of course, you can start training your dog to recognize “leave it” and “drop it” commands.

Finally, in some public transportation, dogs are required to wear a muzzle for the protection of other passengers.

Your veterinarians Frisco TX is a valuable resource when it comes to your pet’s health and needs.

A Jack Russell Terrier's Hair Coat

 

Jack Russel Terriers come in 3 various coat types, each lending a specific texture and appearance to the animal’s hair coat. Most terrier breeds come in rough coat and smooth coat types, and the Jack Russel is the same. The rough coat JRT will have a long and wiry hair coat. While the smooth coat JRT has fur that smoothly lies against the body. A long-haired JRT is just a rough coat type.

The third JRT coat type is called the broken coat. It is a combination of both rough and smooth coats. A JRT broken coat will sport patches of longer and thicker fur, along with smoother hair. How much rough or smooth hair is present on the individual varies as well, but most have about equal amounts.

It will not matter much which coat texture your JRT has, as the breed is expected to shed a little too much. Also, a Jack Russel’s hair coat is weatherproof and waterproof, and it does not matter it is the rough or smooth type.

Your pet will benefit from regular health and wellness checks at your veterinary clinic Bridgetown, OH. Click here to know more about their services.

Cats Like the American Bobtail and Arthritis

Does your older American Bobtail or other feline appear to be having trouble moving around? If so, please be sure to call your vet to schedule a checkup. Signs of mobility issues may include stiffness or swelling of the joints, lethargy, decreased flexibility, discomfort when petting them, decreased activity, messing outside the litter box because they cannot get in and out, and even hesitancy to jump or climb things. If your bobtail has any of these symptoms call your vet to schedule an exam. Your cat may have arthritis or he may be suffering from another condition. Your vet may prescribe medication for your cat. In addition to your vet’s instructions, you can also help your cat be more comfortable by giving him a softer blanket or cat bed, gently massaging him when he’s sleeping, and making sure he has easy access to food, water and his litter box. Learn more from your veterinarian Virginia Beach, VA. Visit their profile to know more.

Prey-Like Toys For Cats

Cats have this reputation as low maintenance pets. Unfortunately, this idea perpetuated the belief that pet cats do not require attention as much as pet dogs do.  But it is a fact that cats also require mental and physical stimulation to do well.  Playtime is included in this stimulation, especially with toys that engage your cat.  Selecting the proper feline-friendly toys can contribute to ensuring that your cat is content, well-adjusted, and happy.

Try getting toys that are manufactured from natural materials.  Materials like synthetic fur, feathers, and wool are similar to the feel and look of true prey animals.  Check that the playthings are made properly, that there are no pieces that come loose and get swallowed by your pet.  Try not to get any toys that have decorations glued on them.

Fishing pole-type toys and interactive wands are some of the most appropriate toys for your cat.  Toys with this kind of interaction promote your pet’s hunting instinct thus allowing your pet to enjoy playtime together with you.

Puzzle-type toys are also a smarter way to keep your cat engaged when you cannot be present to play with her.  These are designed to have treats inside and then challenge your cat to fish out the kitty-treat using different ways.

If you have any questions or concerns about your pet’s behavior,  don’t hesitate to contact your animal clinic Plano, TX.

Why Raw Food is Unsafe for Cats

 

Raw food can pose serious health risks to cats. A study showed that some commercially available pet foods contain pathogenic bacteria. Twenty-five percent of the food samples tested positive for salmonella and Listeria monocytogenes. Fever and diarrhea are the most common signs of salmonella in humans, and symptoms usually occur within 12 to 72 hours after infection. Ingesting foods contaminated with the listeria bacteria can cause symptoms lasting for days or weeks. In humans, individuals affected by severe listeriosis may experience neck pain and convulsions. People with a compromised immune system also face a higher risk of experiencing more acute symptoms. Bacteria can infiltrate the brain, spine, bloodstream, and digestive tract. However, for cats, symptoms do not appear even after being infected by listeria, which can make them silent carriers of the bacteria in your home. Consult your vet Bridgetown, OH about any concerns about your pet's health and diet.

Ways To Groom A Himalayan Cat

 

A cat with thick fur is the best way to describe a Himalayan cat. And when you have a cat like this, you are expected to groom your cat regularly.

Here are some suggestions to meet your cat’s grooming needs:

• Use a steel comb in brushing the Himalayan’s fur. Brush the hair daily to remove furs that build up, and collect loose furs.

• You can visit a professional groomer to get the cat’s hair in order. At times, the hair could be trimmed so that it will grow again. This time, the hair will be thicker and shinier.

• Give your cat a regular bath to remove any dead skin as well as to remove the unwanted smell from the mane

• Trim the nails every week or every two weeks. Regular trimming helps you maintain the quality of the cat’s nails.

• Check the eyes regularly to see if there are any discharge

Any problem affecting your pet's skin and/or hair coat should require a visit to your vet hospital Cincinnati, OH. Learn more here.