Protecting Your Pet Cat Or Dog From Skin Cancer

The risk factors for skin cancer in cats or dogs include exposure to the UV rays of the sun and breed predisposition. Thin-haired pets and light-colored breeds are also more prone to developing skin cancer because their skin is more exposed to the sun. Basset hounds, bloodhounds, and certain other breeds are genetically predisposed to developing squamous cell carcinoma of the skin.

Preventing excessive exposure to the sun’s UV rays is one way to protect your pet from skin cancer. You can also let your pet wear shirts or any type of protective clothing if they have very thin hair coats, just make sure that they are comfortable wearing it. You can also apply sunscreen to certain areas of the animal’s body such as the nose and including the bridge of the nose. Make sure that you are using sunscreen that is safe for use in pets. You should consult your veterinarian for any recommendations. Sunscreen that contains zinc oxide and/or para-aminobenzoic acid (PABA) should NOT be used in pets because these chemicals are toxic to them.

If your pet cat or dog belongs to the breeds that are more prone to developing skin cancer, you must be vigilant in detecting early signs of cancer. Early detection, diagnosis, and treatment can help improve the prognosis. Any bump or lump on your pet’s body that wasn’t there before should be brought to the attention of an animal hospital Jacksonville, FL.

How to Prepare your Puppy to Tolerate a Body Exam

A puppy needs to learn how to put up with an examination of his whole body. He needs to be tolerant when having his nails clipped or temperature taken. The earlier he becomes used to being moved or handled, the better. Here is a procedure on how to train your puppy to become used to a body examination:

1. Grabbing his front legs, make the puppy lie down on the floor. Massage his back and neck while continue to praise him.

2. Once your puppy is totally relaxed, roll him over so he is lying on his side. If he struggles, press gently on his shoulders and say "no" or "stay".

3. Continue to massage him, until you reach his feet and tail. Always remain eye contact with your puppy when you show your praise or displeasure.

4. Next, grab all four paws and roll him over. Give him praises as you massage him while rolling him from side to side. Your puppy may think that you are playing with him; if he becomes playful, stop and hold him until he calms down.

Keep your puppy health and active by bringing him regularly to a vet Oceanway.