What Should You Consider Before Adopting a Dog?

You've decided that you want to adopt a dog. It's a big decision, but it's one worth making—for you and your new best friend. By taking the time to do some research and think about what kind of dog is right for you, you'll be able to find the perfect canine companion.

Here are some things to consider before adopting your new pet:

• Are there any other pets in your household? If so,what kind of personalities do they have? It's important that everyone gets along with each other!

• Do you have enough room in your house for a dog to run around? Do you have enough time to spend with your new friend? Don't get a dog if there won't be enough space or attention available!

• What kind of energy level does this breed typically have? Is it high or low-key? That will help you determine whether or not this is the right dog for your family situation.

If you have more questions or you're ready to find your new, true blue friend, don't hesitate to call us, your local veterinary clinic Fort Collins, CO today!

Which Deworming Medication Should You Use On A Pet Cat?

 

There are a lot of commercially available deworming products and the availability of various drugs differ between countries.  Yes, some deworming products might be available for purchase in certain supermarkets and in pet stores, but it is likely that these are less effective or old products.  Some of them might not even be safe for cats. 

The best thing to do is to always ask your veterinarian for recommendations.  They will know which kinds of parasitic worms are commonly found in your local area.  They should also recommend to you the safest and most effective deworming treatment for your pet cat.  In addition, treatments vary in their methods of administration, some easier than others.  There are injectable treatments that your veterinarian could administer, and there are also ones that come in tablet form that you can sneak in through your cat’s meals.  There are also products that are applied to your pet’s skin as drops.

Consult a veterinarian Fort Collins, CO for a safe and effective deworming product for your pet. Read more here.

Top Behavior Problems of Chinchillas

 

If a chinchilla has been handled since its youth, it will be more receptive to socialization with other humans.  But there is always that chance that a pet chinchilla will develop anti-social habits if it has experienced something negative with humans or has not had the opportunity to interact a lot with them.  Below are just some of the undesirable behaviors that chinchillas might exhibit:

Spraying Urine

●Urine spraying is a behavior that female chinchillas exhibit if there is remaining energy left unspent.  They are very accurate, so much so that with the urine spray, they can hit their intended target, such as a human perhaps or some other object, several feet away.  Urine spraying is a habit that chinchillas exhibit when they become stressed or if they feel that they or their group is under threat.

Biting

●Interestingly, with pet chinchillas, biting is a way of displaying acceptance or affection to their human companions.  However, if they become stressed, afraid, or nervous, they can bite quite hard.

If you have concerns about your pet’s behavior, contact your vet clinic Fort Collins, CO.

Food Portions Are Healthier For Pet Cats

 

Study shows that pet cats lived healthier when put on a regulated food intake. Unlike their predecessors that had to roam far and wide every day to hunt for food, pet cats live a more comfortable but inactive life. Living together with people has altered their way of life, heightening their possibility of accumulating on the extra weight and turning into obese.

Generally, cats eat a considerable amount of food, particularly when presented with tasty food that appeals to their senses. High caloric consumption, more than the ideal intake, will sooner or later cause extra weight and obesity.

Pet cats do not need a lot of energy for the reason that they do not need to hunt for food, unlike their predecessors. Their food is provided to them every day. A neutered or spayed cat does not also need a lot of energy because it won't have the desire to wander to seek mates.

Your pet’s diet and nutritional needs should be one of the important things that you should discuss with your veterinarian Fort Collins, CO during your pet’s wellness checks.

Is Your Cat Obese?

 

Did you know that well over half of our feline friends are obese? Your pet may look cute with a bit of extra padding. Unfortunately, that additional weight is actually very bad for your kitty’s health and well-being.

Kitties that are overweight face the same potential health risks as overweight people do. This includes heart disease, diabetes, liver and kidney issues, reproductive issues, skin problems, and even certain cancers. Those extra pounds can also shorten your cat’s life span.

It's easy to be manipulated by those plaintive little meows. However, just remind yourself that you aren't doing your pet any favors by overfeeding her. Spoil your cat in other ways instead. Toys, cat furniture, playtime, and cuddles will all help your furry friend feel loved and safe … without endangering her health. 

Ask your local vet Fort Collins, CO to give you specific advice on feeding your feline friend.

Caring for a longhaired cat

 

You have a longhaired cat coming into your life soon and you want to make sure you are able to give her the best life you possibly can. This makes you wonder – what’s it like caring for a pet like this?

 

Looking after a longhaired cat is very similar to looking after a shorthaired companion, but additional attention will need to be paid to her grooming needs. This means that you will need to find the right brush for her and use it regularly to help prevent tangles, matting, and other issues. This can help her stay more comfortable in your care and lessen the chances of her having to deal with hairballs, as these can accumulate more quickly in a longhaired feline friend than a short haired one. For more information, please contact your local pet clinic Fort Collins CO.

Watch Out for Snow Balls on Your Cat’s Feet

As winter starts to wind down there may still be a few more snow showers here and there. This may not be a problem for people, but don’t forget that your cat and other pets may find the snow a little difficult to walk through. Snow this time of year tends to be damper and can cause snow to buildup on your cat’s feet. These snow balls may form on the bottom of the paw pads, in between the paws/nails and up on the leg. They are more bothersome than painful. However, the snow that builds up on the paw pads and between the paws and nails could be cause discomfort. Make sure you keep an eye on your cat and help clear the snow balls or wipe your cat’s feet to rid the built up snow. It’s not necessary for your cat to wear snow shoes just check her feet routinely. For more tips, call your vet Fort Collins CO.

FeLV and Your Cat’s Health

Are you familiar with FeLV? It stands for the Feline Leukemia Virus, which is a virus that affects all cat breeds no matter their age or sex. The virus is not contagious to humans and it cannot be passed on to other animals. FeLV is highly contagious in cats. Even though your FeLV can’t get your dog sick, it’s important to keep your cat away from your dog or other cats if they are sick. Germs brought in by other pets or even people can harm an FeLV positive cat because of the cat’s compromised immune system. FeLV can cause anemia and lymphoma. Because of the suppressed immune system, FeLV can make your cat much more susceptible to other illnesses. FeLV can also cause other illnesses including kidney disease and other types of cancers. If your cat is FeLV positive, make sure he sees a veterinarian regularly. Click here to learn more or call your vet Fort Collins, CO.

The Bavarian Mountain Scent Hound

The Bavarian Mountain Scent Hound is a rare breed of hound that originated in Germany. He is a cross between the Bavarian and the Hanover hound. The Bavarian Mount Scent hound is known for is excellent nose and his ability to cold nose track. He is trained primarily for hunting wounded game since his nose can tell the difference between the wounded game he’s tracking and a different animal altogether. This hound is extremely smart, confident, unafraid, and excellent at his tracking job. The Bavarian Mountain Scent hound is not for the casual hunter. He is primarily used by game wardens and foresters. He is a devoted dog that will protect his family. Once on the hunt, he can’t be sidetracked and strives to see the job to the end. For more information, talk with your veterinarian Fort Collins, CO.