Contact Allergies In Pet Dogs

 

Contact allergies are the allergy type that is least common.  This allergy will happen if your dog comes into contact directly with allergens like grasses, lawn pesticides, flea collar pyrethrins, and materials (synthetics or woo) used in bedding or carpets.  Contact allergies could happen whatever age your pet is and could be against practically anything.

If your pet has allergies to any of the aforementioned substances, he will develop itching and irritation at the area where contact was made, typically his belly and feet.  Getting rid of the allergen after identification is often the solution.

Take caution, though, as allergy symptoms could be mistaken for other conditions or happen together with them.  And so, avoid diagnosing your pet yourself.  Seek veterinary assistance.  Prepare your pet for full diagnostic examinations so that the cause of the skin issues and itching can be identified.  If your vet concludes that it is an allergy, the entire family has to follow the instructions to the letter so that your pet’s discomfort will be successfully relieved.

Any skin and/or hair coat issue exhibited by your pet should warrant an appointment with your pet clinic Carmel Valley. 

Atopy Or Inhalant Allergy In Pets?

 

Inhalant allergies pet dogs is a term that means atopy.  Inhaled allergens are mainly dust mites, mildew, molds, ragweed (weed pollen), grass pollen, and tree pollen (oak, cedar, ash, etc.).  Some of them are seasonal, like grass, ragweed, and cedar pollen.  But there are some that occur throughout the entire year, such as dust mites, molds, and mildew.  When a human inhales allergens like these, the resulting reaction primarily affects the upper respiratory system (exhibited as hay fever, sneezing, runny nose, etc.) and also runny eyes.  Even though allergic reactions include allergic bronchitis or rhinitis, with a lot of dogs, manifestations of inhalant energy include pruritus or itchy skin.  Because of these clinical indicators, the condition could also be called inhalant allergic dermatitis.  Your dog might start rubbing his face, scratching his underarms, and licking his feet. 

A lot of dogs that are affected by inhalant allergies will start to show indicators when they reach 1 - 3 years old.  Afflicted dogs would often have a reaction to various allergens and would frequently experience concurrent food or flea allergies.  Should the allergen be identifiable using intradermal tests (skin testing) or perhaps blood tests, your dog has to be shielded from being exposed to these identified allergens in the best way possible.  Since a lot of the allergens are mainly environmental, it could be challenging and recurring incidents are possible.  Atopy symptoms could be managed, but permanent cures are usually not possible.

Frequent allergy flare-ups must be brought to the attention of your veterinarian Carmel Valley. 

Taking Care Of Your Senior Cat: Food And Water Intake

 

If you have decided to get a senior cat to add to your growing family, congratulations. This decision will surely impact your life meaningfully as you change the life of an old cat and witness how she transforms into her golden years.

Now, be sure to understand all needs of your senior cat. Such knowledge will help you be the best fur parent you can be. Read on and take note of the things you need to keep in mind.

• Senior cats experience more physiological changes such as the inability to absorb or digest food well
• Senior cats fail to use their sense organs to the full
• Senior cats are more prone to being dehydrated and having heat stroke or heat stress 

How can you address these concerns?

• Give your senior cats highly absorbable food filled with nutrients to support their healthy aging
• Motivate your senior cats to increase their water intake to keep hydrated and to support kidney function

A sudden change in your pet’s drinking and/or urinating habits should be brought to the attention of your veterinarian San Diego, CA. Read more here.

Keeping Your Cat Safe When Introducing A New Dog And Vice Versa

 

To keep your cat safe when introducing her to a new dog, don't bring your cat to see the dog in the shelter. They can meet each other at home instead.

Likewise, when you're introducing a new cat to your dog, refrain from bringing your pooch to the shelter as he may scare the cats. It's also not a good factor in how your dog may react when bringing the kitty home.

A better thing to do is ask the adoption counselors about which cats are most likely to befriend a dog. Confident cats, for instance, do fine with dogs given controlled conditions. However, if that isn't possible, you may apply an alternative way by bringing in your friend's or relatives' dog-friendly cat. The least you can do is bring in your new cat and introduce her to your dog.

Your pets will benefit from regular health and wellness checks at your animal care San Diego, CA. 

Why Grooming Your Cat Is Important

 

Cats love to groom themselves. These species possess such instinctive behavior to clean themselves given their supple and flexible bodies. Thus, many people around the world have decided to get cats for pets because they are generally tidy pets. 

And do you know that grooming presents numerous benefits to felines? Yes, the list of grooming advantages is long. So, better encourage your pet cat to undertake it. Here are some uses of grooming for felines:

• Smoothens the coat for body insulation
• Removes loose hair
• Controls body heat or temperature through the spread of saliva
• Stimulates the glands to waterproof the coat
• Spreads sebum throughout the skin and produces vitamin D
• Scatters the scent of the cat throughout the body
• Eliminates parasites or pests
• Establishes strong relationship among cats when they groom together

Here are more advantages of grooming among felines regardless of the fur coat they possess:

• Advances muscle tone
• Shines the coat by stimulating the skin and producing oils
• Prevents the formation of hairballs
• Serves as an opportunity to check the coat and skin of the cat for the existence of ear mites, fleas, ticks, or bumps
• Strengthens the bond between you and your cat

Any skin and/or hair coat issue exhibited by your pet should warrant an appointment with your pet clinic Plano, TX. 

Can Puppies Be Ideal Companions For Senior Dogs?

 

Getting a puppy companion for an aging dog is an excellent idea in several ways. Senior dogs can benefit from puppy company, which makes them active, keeps their wits bright, and extends their lives. Puppies can also provide a pleasant distraction for dogs who might be lonely from the death of another dog or family member.

Before purchasing a new furry buddy for your older dog, consider a few things. Taking care of puppies requires time, training, exercise, and patience. They are usually rowdy, have a short attention span, and cannot be alone for lengthy periods. They will also need to be housetrained and taught to act in a domestic setting.

Do not let these considerations prevent you from obtaining a puppy for your elderly dog. Before acquiring a new puppy, consider aspects including your lifestyle, routine, and your senior dog's needs to guarantee that your elder pets reap all of the advantages of having a canine companion in their lives while avoiding any unpleasant surprises.

Your veterinarian Plano, TX can enlighten you about important health issues that can affect your pet.

Best Ways To Control Litter Box Odor: Clay Cat Litter

 

Litters play a vital role in keeping your cat’s litter boxes functional and effective. If you do not know it yet, litters come in several types with their respective advantages and disadvantages. So, it pays for you to know a lot about this matter so you can decide which type of litter suits your cat’s needs and your lifestyle and preference as well.

One of the commonly used litters in many countries is clay litter. This litter type has been available in the market for a long time now. Clay litter has two forms: the clumping and non-clumping types.

Clumping clay cat litter - This type needs daily scooping. Every scoop is efficient and effective because you scoop out the clumps and directly remove most of the waste.

Non-clumping clay cat litter - This type needs changing many times a week because urine goes down directly into the box. When not removed immediately, a strong urine odor may accumulate.

Persistent litter box issues should warrant an appointment with your veterinary hospital Frisco, TX to make sure that your pet’s behavior is not caused by an underlying health issue.

Healthy Coat for Dogs: Provide Consistent Parasite Prevention

 

Parasites like fleas and ticks can invade your dog's skin causing irritation and discomfort. In response to this, your dog can start scratching, licking, or chewing the affected skin. Parasitic invasion followed by scratching (by the dog itself) will break the protective skin barrier leading to secondary infections. 

External parasites can cause serious illness therefore it is the best approach to keep your pet safe and protected even when you can't find any ectoparasite on their skin.

Internal parasites are equally dangerous for the health of your pet dog. For example, hookworms and roundworms get their nutrients by leaching into the gut of the dog (host). Therefore a dog with worm infestations will get weaker by losing essential nutrients. It is important to deworm your pet regularly and also test your dog's stool for worms annually. 

Work with your veterinarian Frisco TX in creating a health preventive program that includes your pet's year-round protection against internal and external parasites. 

Why Pet Owners Should Take Ticks Seriously

It's worth noting that ticks have different species and that not all of them carry diseases. But the ticks we often find on our pets are in a different league. They're not only capable of carrying diseases, but these ticks can also transmit those diseases to humans.

Some of the symptoms you might experience include joint swelling, anemia, and fever. If that's not bad enough, consider that a tick can also give you paralysis. Can you imagine being immobile for several minutes, at least? Fortunately, these phenomena fade away soon after you receive treatment.

If your current neighborhood is a haven for ticks and you can't move out because of budget constraints, scan your pet's body every day. You must remove any tick you see on the spot because allowing them to multiply will cost you your animal's health.

Try to use pest-removing shampoos, and don't overdo it. Too much can also irritate your fur baby's skin, which would defeat the purpose. When going for walks, don't let your pet wander around, especially if there are bushes nearby. A thorough cleaning of the house would also help. Do it at least once a week.

Consult your veterinarian Ellicott City, MD about the best way to eliminate ticks from your pet and for protection from future infestations.

Do Pet Reptiles Need Water?

 

Being the most important source of nutrients,  an accessible source of clean water is essential for pet reptiles. Place the water in a shallow dish where they can soak to promote proper shedding. Also, ensure that getting out of the water is safe and easy to prevent drowning.

Replace the water daily and when the reptile has defecated. Clean the container every day and disinfect it every week. For some lizards like chameleons, the water must be sprayed on plants or cage's sides as they don't drink from bowls.

You may also drip the water in the reptile's tank, which is easier than dripper tubing. Make a hole in a paper/plastic cup's bottom; then fill it with water. How fast the cup empties depends on how large the hole is. Place the cup on top of the tank/cage above a leaf where the water should fall. Be sure that the leaf has another cup/bowl under it to avoid soiling the tank.

A sudden change in your pet’s drinking and/or urinating habits should be brought to the attention of your veterinarian Michigan City, IN. Visit the website.

The Basenji

 

The Basenji breed originated from Congo in Africa. Theis sight and scent are essential for hunting, and they have assisted in catching small game targets. Originally, they helped villagers in controlling the number of rodents. Today, Basenjis are excellent loving dogs for families.

If you're the kind of person or have a family that can get way ahead of these dogs, the smart and loveable Basenjis are the best. They do well in an apartment and can even make excellent starters for beginners. With their high energy, exercise is a must— including lots of walks and play.

Basenjis are famous for being silent (barkless). They also have short coats and small but muscular bodies. With ears erect, Basenjis seem to be always alert. Their tail is also curled tightly above the hip. Basenjis tend to look either puzzled or mischievous because of their wrinkled brows.

Your pet will benefit from regular health and wellness checks at your veterinary hospital Michigan City, IN. Click here to set an appointment. 

Risks Of Dog Chewing

 

Dogs love to chew. Whether these animals do it out of boredom or they are trying to relieve pain, dogs always find it exciting and fun to chew anything. But, as a fur parent, you must not let your dogs simply chew “anything.” 

When you are too busy to supervise your dog, he may encounter some accidents due to excessive chewing. Your dog may also ingest some parts of the objects he chews, causing a serious health concern.

Listed below are the usual hazards for dog chewing:

• Electric wires that may cause an electric shock
• Strings and cords that may cause strangulation
• Balls and toys that may cause choking
• Rawhide bones that may cause teeth damage and intestinal obstruction
• Sticks that may cause digestive blockage

Other dog chewing hazards are as follows:

• Bottles and cans
• Cooked bones
• Clothing
• Pennies

Always take the time to clear things up in your house to make it safe for your pup. Pack away things that may become a choking or chewing hazard to your beloved canine.

Your veterinarian Rockwall, TX is a valuable resource when it comes to issues that affect your pet’s health and behavior.

Foreign Objects That Get In The Eye

 

Foreign objects could be grit, dust, or various other debris that comes into contact with your eyes.  Lots of times, debris can be so small that it cannot be easily seen.  And when these get into your eyes, they can be removed easily and are quite harmless.  But considering what that object is and how deep it gets into the eyes, foreign objects could become a cause for concern.

What could cause these foreign objects?

In a lot of cases, these foreign objects are just small particles freely floating around and can get into your eyes because you cannot see them.  But foreign objects could get into your eyes for almost any reason, such as accidents or performing activities or work that produces flying particles and you are not wearing eye protection.

 Indicators that a foreign object is in your eye

Usually, you will feel that some foreign thing is in your eyes.  Actually, you most likely have felt this if an eyelash ever got into your eyes.  If this goes unnoticed, or you are having difficulty removing the debris, your eyes could get irritated or red.

 Any issue or concern you may have with your eyes or eyesight should be brought to the attention of your eye doctor Camarillo, CA.  Set an appointment here: https://irishidr.com/.

What Causes Contact Lens Discomfort?

 

Soft contacts are typically comfortable when used in the beginning.  Discomfort when using contacts could happen but is typically remedied easily.

What would cause discomfort when wearing contacts?

Discomfort due to contact lens use can happen for various reasons.  For contacts to work properly, it is essential to take care of them well.  Follow the replacement and maintenance schedule as advised by eye care professionals.  These schedules help in keeping your eyes comfortable and healthy while your contacts are on.  If you neglect to follow them, vision problems, comfort issues, and various other safety problems might happen.

Be conscious that the issues below might happen:

●Itching, burning, and stinging eyes or various other pain in the eyes

●Discomfort when initially putting on your contacts

●Excessive tears or watering of your eyes

●Unusual secretions from the eyes

●Poor visual acuity (reduced sharpness of sight)

●Eye redness

●Blurry vision, halos, or rainbow around objects

●Dry eyes

●Photophobia (light sensitivity)

If any symptoms mentioned above are felt, remove your contacts immediately. But if they persist, you should seek medical help. Make an appointment with your professional eye doctor Camarillo, CA.

Simple Tips To Deal With Computer Vision Syndrome

 

With the simple suggestions below, you could minimize how CVS (computer vision syndrome) affects you: 

●Ensure that your room lighting is comfortable enough for your eyes.  This stops you from staring back into the computer monitor’s glare.

●Position your computer monitor in such a way that your head’s position is naturally comfortable while working.

●Take breaks.  Several minutes spent away from your computer could benefit your eyes a lot.  You can think of this similar to how you need to take a break to stretch your back and arms.

●Ensure that you are using a comfortable seat.  Sitting on comfortable chairs that have back and neck support helps avoid shoulder and neck strain typically associated with CVS. 

Contact lenses that dry out

Spending a lot of time working on digital devices might mean that you are not that satisfied with contacts.  Using a computer, smartphone, or tablet often might cause one not to blink often, contributing to contacts drying out.

You will benefit from regular eye checks at your optometrist Camarillo, CA. Click here to know more about their services.

Do You Have Blurred Vision?

 

Blurred vision could be caused by various reasons.  Below are several:

Eye floaters

Blurred vision could happen because of floaters or temporary spots that drift onto your vision field.  Floaters usually appear whenever the gel-like vitreous of the eye starts to liquefy due to aging.  This causes microscopic tissue bits within the eye’s vitreous to freely float inside the eyes.  These cast shadows on your retina.  Should you suddenly  see lots of floaters, it could indicate a detached or torn retina.  Immediately consult your eye doctor if this happens.

Blurred vision post-LASIK

Your eyesight might become hazy or blurry immediately post-LASIK or any kind of refraction surgery.  Vision clarity should improve within several days, but could take additional time for vision to completely stabilize.

Medication and eye drops

Some eye drops, particularly the ones that have preservatives, could cause blurred vision and irritation.  Also, there are medications like allergy pills that have blurry vision and dry eyes as side effects.  When undergoing comprehensive eye checkups, ask your ophthalmologist or optometrist if your medications could cause blurred vision.

Wearing contact lenses too much

Using disposable contacts (or any kind of contacts for that matter) for longer than intended or prescribed would cause buildup of proteins and debris in the tear film on the lens.  This could then cause blurred eyesight and increases the risk of infections to the eye.

Eye doctors Camarillo, CA are valuable resources when it comes to issues affecting your eyes.

Can Bearded Dragons Live Together?

 

Not all animals enjoy being with a mate or two. Some of them want to live their lives in isolation because when they have others around them, chaos starts.

The same concept is true for some reptiles, such as bearded dragons. You can house these species together, but be sure to follow the guidelines. Here are some of the things that you need to consider:

• Use a large enclosure, at least 125 gallons, if you plan to house two bearded dragons. Doing so will give your pets enough space to move around and about, and for them to have a space to call their own.
• Keep bearded dragons in one tank if they are of the same size. Do not combine a large dragon with a small one because the former might outlast the latter.
• Do not place more than one male bearded dragon in a tank. They might fight a lot.
• Do not combine a female bearded dragon with males unless she is already two years old and ready to breed.

Your veterinarian Pasadena, MD can enlighten you about important health issues that can affect your pet.

Using High-Value Dog Treats For Training

 

Are you intrigued about the impacts of high-value treats on dogs? Understand that dog treats are available in different types. Some treats that easily break or crumble are considered “regular.” While there are high-value treats that are moist and greasy.

Now, these high-value treats are more special than the basic ones. You should know the perfect moments when to give your pup these biscuits. Here are some of them:

• When training a pup who is a bit picky or does not enjoy treats
• When teaching or managing a new puppy that hardly focuses on the task at hand
• When you are motivating or encouraging a shy or nervous pup
• When you are training a dog in a “chaotic” environment or with several distractions in the surrounding
• When you try to apply the methods of counterconditioning and desensitization ib training your pup 

These situations are considered more serious or “taxing” for your canine. So, use high-value treats to get your desired outcome. Meanwhile, you can give your pup regular snacks when rewarding him for showing good behavior.

Your vet Pickerington, OH is a valuable resource when it comes to issues that affect your pet’s health and behavior.

Horse Ride Safety Tips During Bee And Wasp Season

 

Stinging insects are in their prime condition and most active when summer is about to end. This is the time when their food source and supply become slim. Thus, you may want to double your protection against these insects and put your guard up a little bit higher.

 

Yellowjacket is another type of insect you must watch out for. They also nest on the ground in the burrows of some rodents apart from building hives in trees.

 

Here are some safety measures while riding during this time of the year:

Ride along well-established trails. Doing this will help you avoid encounters with any hidden nests.

Prepare a plan when you chance upon stinging insects.

Your horse may run away and buck you off when stung. Be ready.

Ride with others and carry with you a handy phone for emergency communication.

Have a first-aid kit ready. Fill it with supplies that can aid you and your horses when stung, like Benadryl and Epi-Pen.

 

Your veterinarian Pickerington, OH can enlighten you about important health issues that can affect horses.

How To Introduce Puzzle Feeders To Your Cat

 

Puzzle feeders are a great way to keep your cat stimulated mentally and physically. Consider this device when you keep your cat indoors most of the time. Your cat needs several activities that can help her exercise her body and mind.

If you have started using a puzzle feeder, continue doing it. Observe if your cat is enjoying the use of such a device. When your feline has shown proficiency in using it with no indications of frustration, anxiety, or stress, try increasing the level of difficulty of the device. How? You may start using puzzle feeders with smaller or fewer holes, with opaque shapes, or with harder manipulation techniques.

Experts recommend trying several types or designs of puzzle feeders so your cat will remain excited and eager to try new strategies. Your cat may also have a preference, so be observant of her behavior. Remember that using this mealtime technique can ensure your cat’s happier and healthier life.

Your veterinarian Anderson, IN is a valuable source of information about your pet's diet and nutritional needs.

Pet Reptiles Must Be Handled Carefully

One important thing you should know regarding the handling of pet amphibians or reptiles is that they do not particularly like it if they are handled.

Yes, some individuals might gradually become accustomed to being held and picked up, but most will just not.  Either way, always exercise care even if your purpose in picking up your pet is just to examine it.

Having a poor vision is among the main reasons why pets like these are quite skittish.  Amphibians and reptiles spend a lot of time just staying in the darkness, inside a burrow, or beneath the undergrowth as they locate their next meal.

Additionally, all except for one genus of snakes are unable to change their eye lens shape to focus.  What they do is they move their eye lens forwards and backward, much like how your camera works, which is not as efficient.  This focusing method prevents them from focusing easily on objects that are stationary, thus they are quite sensitive to any movement.

Any sign of illness exhibited by your pet should require a visit to your veterinary hospital Middletown, DE for proper medical attention.

Hairless Cat Care

Do you remember that episode of Friends when Rachel adopted a hairless cat? For many people, this may have been the first time they realized that not all of our feline friends are wearing fur. It was a bit of bad PR, though, as the kitty Rachel adopted turned out to be pretty mean. With most bald kitties, the opposite is true. Hairless cats tend to be extremely lovable and cuddly, and get super attached to their humans. In fact, they are so sociable that they often get depressed if left alone. 

For the most part, these guys are just like any other cat. They need good food, fresh water, and clean litterboxes, as well as proper veterinary care and, of course, great TLC. They do tend to get chilly, so they need warm beds and sweaters when it's cold out. They also make wonderful pets! 

Be sure to contact your pet clinic Bellevue, WA for more tips on caring for a hairless cat. Click here to know more.

Is There A Breed Of Domestic Cat That Doesn’t Hunt?

 

Do you know that cats love to hunt? Oh, yes these animals do because they are considered predators. Cats have this instinctive behavior to go after other smaller animals or hunt things or living beings that they can smell.

So, do not get surprised when once in a while, you see your beloved feline looking for something or going after a rat inside your home. Experts explain that hunting is a normal behavior cats do, and this has something to do with their being a meat-eater.

If you have an indoor cat, provide her with outlets for her hunting behavior. You may give her toys or a play area where she can look for her favorite things. When your cat becomes older, this behavior slowly diminishes because she tends to become less physically active.

It pays to know how and why your cat behaves in certain ways so you can adjust your home or your lifestyle accordingly.

A sudden change in your pet’s behavior should warrant a visit to your animal hospital Anderson, IN. Visit their website to know more about their services.

Can I Keep A Cat On Vegetarian Diet?

 

Have you always been on a vegetarian diet? If this is the case, you may also want to get a pet with whom you can share such a meal option. Now, be informed that cats should not be included in your option. This species cannot thrive and sustain itself by feeding only on green, leafy vegetables. 

Understand that felines are obligate carnivores. What does this mean? This case implies that cats need to consume meat to be healthy and support their bodily functions throughout their lifetime. Do not even think about trying to introduce your cat to a vegetarian diet because it can harm her and put her at great risk.

Cats are not born to consume only veggies. Thus, the bodies of these animals are used to and need the nutrients present in meat for them to survive. But, if you will still push through with having a vegetarian pet, go get a rabbit instead of a cat.

Know more about your pet’s nutritional needs during your pet’s health and wellness visits to your animal clinic Anderson, IN.

How To Encourage Your Cat To Drink More Water: Liquid To Avoid And Other Tips

 

As a fur parent, you must try your best to motivate your cat to drink water though she hesitates most of the time. Your cat needs water for sustenance and survival. So, take note of the do’s and don'ts as regards this matter. 

If you have forgotten the basics, here are some things you must NOT give your cat when you ate encouraging her to drink more water:

• Salty liquids like brine
• Milk, especially when your cat has a kidney disease
• Cow’s milk (Cats cannot fully digest this drink, causing diarrhea)
• Liquids that have onion powder or onions, such as stock

Meanwhile, here are some tips you can do to motivate your cat to drink:

• Give water or other liquid that is at room temperature
• Adopt a wet diet than a dry one (but consult with your vet first)
• Add additional amounts of water to wet food
• Add a few drops of water to dry food
• Gradually implement changes in the water or food intake of your cat so as not to stress her

A sudden change in your pet’s drinking and/or urinating habits should be brought to the attention of your veterinarian Marion, IA area.

The Importance Of Maintaining Flea Prevention During Winter

 

Most fur parents might think since wintertime is near, there is no need to buy products that prevent ticks and fleas because your pets will likely spend most of their time inside the comforts of your home more often - this is a common misconception. These parasites are capable of being present all around no matter the weather! Even when it gets chilly, ticks and fleas are a menace to your pet’s health if you leave them exposed, this can lead to a different number of problems. Here's why: 

Fleas, flea eggs, along with their larvae, are not capable of surviving the cold temperatures of winter – except for flea pupae, which means they never really leave. These flea pupae are lying dormant. For example, when you go on a trip with your dog to a warmer climate, adult fleas thrive in that temperature. Once you've returned from your trip, there's a chance your pet may have brought home a bunch of fleas or ticks, who are now living happily inside of your home. You might think spraying or doing a full clean sweep of the house will do the trick when it is possible you missed some of them within forgotten spots or corners. Either way, it only takes one or two fleas for a new wave of infestation to begin.

Consult your veterinarian Marion, IA area about the best way to eliminate ticks from your pet and for protection from future infestations.

Would Lizards Make Ideal Children’s Pets?

 

Like any other pet, ensuring that your kids are prepared for the responsibility of keeping pets means that they are taught how to handle and take care of animal companions properly.  This is particularly true for pet lizards.

Select a pet lizard that is relatively simple to maintain and easily handleable by children.  A lot of the maintenance activities such as cleaning the cage, refilling the water bottles, and feeding should be performed by the child.  But even if most enclosures are simple to set up, get one that has child-proof locks to avoid litter fingers from getting in.

Every lizard could excrete Salmonella bacteria.  Thus, implement proper hygiene measures and always supervise children whenever they interact with the lizard.  An adult should also regularly look into the lizard and the enclosure so that proper temperature is maintained, and food and water are provided.

Consult your veterinarian North Redington Beach, FL  about the best ways to protect your pet from various health issues. 

Social Environment Impacts When Pet Cats Are Allowed Outdoor Access

 

As the world progresses, certain changes in the environment take place. Some of these changes are good, but some are bad as well. Some changes may impact your life, even the lives of your other loved ones like your cats.

So, it is understandable if you choose to keep your pet cats inside your home all the time. There are several negative impacts your cats may experience when you give them regular free access to the outside environment, including social environment effects.

What are these effects?

Social pressures do not happen to humans alone but also to cats. When you let your cats go out, they may encounter territorial disputes and fights may ensue between them and other felines in the neighborhood. Your cats may encounter aggression and may acquire injuries when chaos occurs. These cases may lead to anxiety or even stress among cats.

Call your animal hospital Washington DC to make sure that your pet’s preventatives and vaccinations are up to date before taking your pet on outdoor excursions. Schedule an appointment today!

Will Akitas Do Well As Backyard Dogs?

 

Although Akitas are generally reserved in public, these highly social dogs also need a lot of time from the family. They make excellent, loyal companions, and it isn't also advised to get them to live in the backyard. Getting them to live outside and refraining them from having a family take away this breed's essence. Lonely Akitas are prone to aggressiveness.

Akitas aren't great for first-timers, lapdog lovers, or owners who aren't willing to take charge. But if you're the type to invest a lot of effort and time to research and train dogs, you'll get rewarded with an intelligent and loyal Akita companion.

When teaching a young Akita or reorienting an adult one to socialize, it's best to expose him to friendly people more often to alleviate their wariness. However, these dogs will stay as they are— dignified and serious animals who aren't for plain fun.

Take a proactive approach to your pet’s health with regular health and wellness checks at your professional animal hospital Washington DC. 

Akita Grooming And Training

 

Akitas have this unique trait of grooming themselves like how a cat does— they lick their bodies. When stalking their prey, Akitas aren't like most dogs bark before attacking. They are silent, lowering themselves to the ground like tigers. Akitas have a muscular build and weigh more than 100 pounds. They are domineering, so you must train them properly. As loyal dogs, you and your dog's bond mustn't break by entrusting him to a trainer.

Research about training Akitas before adopting this breed. They don't take harsh ways of training positively, so keep in mind that the dog's respect can be earned by being respectful to him, too. Although they're intelligent, Akitas can take longer to train. Their natural stubbornness is a major issue in training, and it's best to research the training tips for Akitas first. This breed isn't for timid owners.

Any problem affecting your pet's skin and/or hair coat should require a visit to your nearest pet hospital Washington DC. 

Is Your Pet Safe In The Cattery?

 

You may be hesitant to leave your cat behind, but you have no other choice because you cannot bring her in your holiday or business trip for more than two days.

The usual practice of fur parents going away for a few days is to leave their beloved felines in a boarding cattery. If you have not done this before, do not worry because there are boarding catteries that are well-maintained and can give you the best service. 

In choosing a cattery, take note of the following:

• Cattery physical design - Choose a cattery with individual cat units for the safety and protection of the cats.
• Cattery with individual areas - Choose a cattery that offers individual play areas for cats who do not enjoy hanging out with cats they do not get along with. This practice will help prevent competition or fights between the felines. Communal spaces may even put your cat at risk of having diseases. So, avoid these communal areas.

Take a proactive approach to your pet’s health with regular health and wellness checks at your animal hospital Washington DC. 

Airedales Are Like Other Terriers

 

As with all Terriers, Airedales tend to dig, chase, and bark all the time. They're highly energetic, making them a great jogging companion. Their favorite activities include walks and playtimes in the yard.

Airedales are famous for their independent nature. They're highly intelligent and less likely to wait for your direction. So if you prefer dogs that will heed your commands, Airedales are not the best choices. But if you like to take on the challenge, Airedales can suit you.

Airedale Terriers don't take harsh treatment lightly; they will hold a grudge if you ever mistreat them. They also tend to be aggressive to fellow dogs or other animals— plus, their tendency to prey on other animals can be hard to handle. People often say that Airedales never start a fight but rather finishes it. So to sum it up, taking care of Airedales requires consistent obedience training and a well-fenced yard.

If you have concerns about your pet's health and/or behavior, make an appointment with your veterinary hospital Cornelius, NC.

Will Affenhuahuas Get Along Well With Children And Other Pets?

 

Because of their small size, the Affenhuahua (cross between Affenpinscher and Chihuahua) can get injured by rambunctious children easily. For this reason, these dogs mostly prefer the company of older kids and adults who are more gentle when playing with them. Affenhuahuas can be a perfect companion for children, though, if they learn the proper way of approaching these dogs at an early age.

On the other hand, in the matter of other animals, Affenhuahuas can get along with them just fine, given a gradual and calm introduction. Early socialization may also help. Although it's ideal that an Affenhuahua learns to socialize early, it's never too late for older Affenhuahuas to get less territorial. Cats and dogs, in particular, can be friends with Affenhuahuas. But generally, this breed likes to be the only pet and isn't really into other pets. Overall, it depends on socialization, training, and luck.

Your nearest veterinarian Cornelius, NC is a valuable resource when it comes to your pet’s health and needs.

Why Cats Need Water

 

All living beings, small or big, furry or not, need to remain hydrated. Even your beloved feline that generally does not love water needs a daily supply of water to support her overall health.

Why? Understand that 60% of your cat’s body is water. The water helps in the bodily functions of your cat and supports her survival. Imagine if your cat does not have water in her body

• How can your cat swallow and digest food? 
• How can oxygen and nutrients be delivered throughout her body?
• How can your cat produce urine to get rid of her body waste?

Now, you may wonder how much water your cat needs. If your cat is an adult and is medium-built, she needs roughly 8 ounces of water daily. But this measurement may vary depending on the diet your cat is on. Consider the following guidelines m:

• If your cat is on a dry-food diet (kibble only that is only 10% water), she needs more water.
• If your cat enjoys canned or wet food which is 75% water, she may drink less.

If your cat experiences health problems, her water needs may vary. When cats cannot produce urine due to kidney disease, they need more water. So, it is best to consult with your veterinarian Clarkesville, GA about the amount of water your cat needs to drink daily based on the factors mentioned above.

How To Minimize Eyes Strain

 

First and foremost, tired eyes can be annoying.  There are several methods to stave off eye strain, and if these do not work, then you might want to consult an eyecare professional.  There are times when underlying medical issues could cause eye strain and would need treatment. 

Several typical methods that could minimize eyestrain: 

●Have enough sleep 

●Evaluate your lights.  High contrast lighting will strain the eyes more, therefore, if you are working on your computer, reading, or watching TV, ensure that your room is evenly lit so that your eyes are not required to work very hard. 

●Take regular breaks.  Make sure that you take regular breaks from close-up work, whether it be fine embroidery or computer work. 

●Be sure that your contact lens or eyeglass prescription is updated.  Eye prescription changes naturally over time.

Any sign of an eye problem should prompt a visit to your eye care center Hackensack, NJ.

Training Your Puppy To Handle Being Home Alone: Practice Makes Perfect

 

Generally, you want to spend about 30 - 50 % of your time at home together with your pet practicing self-pacifying habits. 

How much time you practice will depend on your pet’s personality as well as his need for alone time experience.  Be patient and practice his training throughout his puppyhood until such time he can relax comfortably even when you move beyond his view. 

These recommendations should help in reaching your eventual goal of aiding your pet mature into adulthood with the skills needed to stay at home alone even if you are away.  But your pet needs your help to get there. 

It might be difficult to be away from your pet, but think about the good it will bring to him in the long run.  Not being able to spend some time by himself is often the underlying cause of hard-to-fix separation anxiety problems in adult dogs.  These problems can be quite stressful to the animal and his family. 

And so helping your pet puppy have a strong foundation for being alone would make your pet mature into a happy adult pet when you are there with him and a calm pet even if you are away.

Make an appointment with your animal care clinic Lexington, KY if you have any concerns about your pet’s behavior.

Ways To Stay Safe While Walking Your Dog

 

Walking your dog is a fun activity for you and your beloved canine buddy. This bonding moment strengthens your relationship and helps you get to know your pup more. Walking is also beneficial to the overall well-being of your dog as it presents the following upsides:

• Provides opportunities for your dog to exercise and stretch his legs
• Stimulates your pup’s mental ability
• Improved your dog’s skills to socialize with people and other animals

However, walking your dog may come with several risks and may put you or your dog’s life in danger. Thus, observe these safety guidelines.

• Train your dog in the proper procedure of walking on a leash before bringing him out in the open. Doing this will ensure success in your fun activity.
• Consult with your vet whether your dog is physically fit and ready for walks. Some dogs are not recommended to get routine walks because of health conditions.      

Make sure that your pet’s preventatives and vaccines are up to date before outdoor excursions. Call your animal hospital Lexington, KY for information. 

Will Your Rabbit and Dog Get Along Okay?

 

If you have a pet dog and want to add a rabbit to your growing family, consider if your dog has a history of pursuing smaller animals. Consider your pet's behavior when you take it on outdoor walks and attempt to figure out if it gets thrilled when it sees smaller creatures.

This information can help you determine if your dog will assail the new pet rabbit when it comes home for the first time. Because rabbits can die of terror, it is critical to understand your dogs' predatory behavior.

Several dog breeds, such as Golden Retrievers and Terriers, undergo training to catch rabbits. So, avoid acquiring a pet rabbit if you have these canine breeds at home. Ensure that you get a rabbit-friendly dog breed to prevent any unexpected accidents.

If your dog loves interacting with smaller, curious creatures, a rabbit might be a perfect fit and a terrific buddy for your pet.

Your pets will benefit from regular health and wellness checks at your vet hospital Fort Collins, CO. Click here to know more about their services.

Tip To Increase Your Cat’s Water Intake: Add Water To Kibble

Is your cat on a kibble-only diet? There is nothing wrong with this as long as your beloved feline is drinking water regularly or as needed. But, a problem may arise if your cat refuses to drink when necessary. If you cannot transition your cat from having kibble to wet cat foods, do not worry.

For a start, you can add small quantities of water to the kibble of your cat. If you see that your cat is enjoying the food, you may eventually add more amounts of water to increase her water consumption. 

Here are more ways in improving the water intake of your furry feline:

Use a dripping faucet or a cat drinking fountain instead of the traditional water bowl

Place the water bowl in the parts of your home your cat frequently visits

Add a few amounts of chicken broth or tuna water to your cat’s drinking water for enticing purposes

A sudden change in your pet’s drinking and/or urinating habits should be brought to the attention of your professional veterinary clinic Bend OR.

Is Your Degus Exhibiting Peculiar Behaviors?

 

Many pet owners tend to panic when they see one of their degus "nibbling" on other degus' nails, on top of chasing them. But these are normal behaviors among degus that live together and are cared for by the same pet owner. Play-fights are ordinary among groups of domesticated degus.

That said, understand that it is still a degu's way of asserting its dominance over the group. And that there are occasions when the one doing the nipping and the chasing can go overboard. Maintain a close watch on your pets and prepare a second enclosure should you need to separate them.

If your dominant degu ends up injuring one of the others following an intense fight, break it up and take the submissive degu for a quick inspection. Get your first aid kit and try to stop the bleeding, if any. But don't wait too long to drive to your vet's office. The sooner you get there, the sooner a professional can attend to your pet.

If you have any questions or concerns about your pet’s behavior,  don’t hesitate to contact your animal hospital Fayetteville, NC.

Talking To Cats

 

Is your feline friend a furry little chatterbox? Or does your pet only meow when she wants to let you know she pushed her toy under the couch or is ready for her fourth breakfast? Just like people, cats all have their own unique voices and vocal patterns. Some kitties are very talkative and opinionated, and others just don't have much to say. 

Breed can play a role here. Siamese cats, for instance, are very talkative. They actually have a unique meow, that often sounds like a human baby. Maine Coons are also quite chattery, and often sound a bit chirpy. 

You may find it fun to talk to your cat. Even if she doesn't meow much, she'll likely respond in other ways, such as flicking her tail or twitching her ears. If nothing else, this is a good way to bond with your feline pal, and make her feel loved. 

It's worth pointing out that changes in kitty vocalizations can be a sign of sickness. Contact your veterinarian Champaign, IL if you notice anything odd about your cat's meows. Visit the website.

Adventures With Fido

 

Summer is on the way, and many of us are looking forward to those warm, sunny days. Summer tends to be a very busy time of year for many people, especially those who enjoy activities such as swimming, camping, and hiking. Of course, our canine pals often love to accompany their humans on these sorts of adventures. 

One thing that you may want to do—if you haven't already—is make a doggy bag to keep in your car. This should include a pet first-aid kit, as well as useful/emergency items such as food, treats, towels, dishes, a spare tie out line, water, and waste baggies. Add some key paperwork, such as your pet's medical records, your vet's contact information, and a pet first-aid book or brochure, and you're ready for anything! We also recommend keeping at least a gallon or two of water in the car. 

Don't take your dog on summer adventures without making sure that he is current on parasite control and vaccinations. Contact your vet clinic Champaign, IL to make an appointment.