How To Use Hamster Ball Safely

A hamster ball can provide your pet hamster hours of fun and exercise.  The translucent plastic balls are usually designed to come as two separate halves that can be screwed together. When the hamster that is placed inside the ball moves, it causes the ball to roll across the floor. However, there are potential risks to the safety of hamsters when the balls are not used properly. Here are some safety precautions to remember before placing a pet hamster inside a hamster ball:

l  Get the right size and color for our pet as hamsters come in all sizes. Ideally, the size of the ball must match the adult size of your pet so it will be spacious enough for the hamster to stretch out and play.        

l  Only one hamster should be placed inside the ball at a time. Placing 2 or more hamsters inside the ball can possibly lead to injury or fights.

l  Choose a light-colored hamster ball over a dark-colored one because dark colors attract and trap more heat which can increase a hamster’s risk to heat stress or hyperthermia. A light-colored ball also makes it easier for you to see what y our pet is doing inside.

Sudden changes in your pet’s health and/or behavior should be brought to the attention of a veterinarian Pasadena, MD.

Demodex Treatment

Demodex canis is a type of mite that is a normal skin inhabitant in most dogs. But when the dog’s immune system is compromised, the mites jump at the chance to multiply and cause skin problems. The good news is, demodex is not transmissible between dogs.

There are 2 forms of demodex in dogs --localized and generalized.

l  Localized form -- There are a few patches of bald skin that usually occur around the dog’s face.

l  Generalized form -- Affected dogs have multiple bald skin patches that spreads in any part of the dog’s body. The dog’s hair coat appears thin and sparse and there may be concurrent bacterial skin infections.

Dogs that are showing signs of infestation are assumed to be immuno-compromised, thus they will need extra care and attention to boost their immune system function and keep the mite population in check.

Any skin problem exhibited by your pet should be brought to the attention of a professional vet clinic Westminster MD.

Giving Your Dog a Bath

You might get away with spot cleaning your dog on occasion but at some point he may get smelly or dirty enough that he needs a full bath. And regular baths are essential to keeping his skin healthy. Whether your dog loves or hates baths, you need to be efficient. Gather all bath supplies together in one place. Brush your dog well to remove excess hair that could mat when wet. Wet your dog down with lukewarm water. Lather him up with dog-safe shampoo while avoiding the eyes, nose and mouth. Don’t forget to soap up the groin, the armpits, and in between the toes. Rinse your dog quickly but thoroughly, again with lukewarm water. Towel off your dog and brush him to remove tangles while taking care not to hurt him by pulling too hard. Keep him inside and warm until he is completely dry. For more information, contact your vet Fort Bragg NC.

What are the Signs of Heartworms in Dogs?

 

Have you heard of heartworm disease in dogs? Heartworms are dangerous worms that can infiltrate the blood system of your canine causing damage to major organs like the heart, lungs and even the blood vessels. Heartworms, untreated, can cause lung disease and even heart failure. Signs of heartworm disease in dogs may include a persistent cough, reluctance to exercise, fatigue, decreased appetite and weight loss. Your dog may not show symptoms until the disease has progressed. Untreated heartworm disease can cause swollen belly or abdomen which could be signaling heart failure. Please have your dog tested for heartworms annually. A heartworm test is simply a blood test that your vet can give in office. If your dog tests positive he will need immediate and aggressive care. If you’re your dog tests negative then he should be on a monthly preventative medication. Talk to your veterinarians Glen Ellyn IL for more information.

Misunderstood Pitbulls

Pitbulls are one of the most misunderstaood canine breeds. But do you know they are actually affectionate and loyal dogs? In fact, they were once called as “nanny dogs” because they are very gentle around kids. It’s the negative media coverage that is painting pit bulls in a negative light. Yes, these dogs are strong and can be stubborn, but with proper training and a strong alpha leader, these dogs make great pets and buddies.

As to the question, “are pit bulls dangerous’?, a quick answer is no. A pit bull that receives proper training, neutered, socialized, and properly raised will be just like any dog breed out there. People should be aware of the fact that any dog has the potential to be a threat in the wrong situation.

Your vet clinic MT. Airy MD is a valuable source of information about your pet’s health and behavior.

Cats and Fatty Liver Disease

Did you know that cats and small dogs can be prone to fatty liver disease? This disease is also known as Hepatic Lipidosis. The disease is known to affect cats around the world. It is particularly common in middle aged cats no matter the breed or sex. So what is fatty liver disease? It is an illness that can be genetic or a symptom of another illness. Fatty liver disease happens when the liver is overloaded with large amounts of fat. This can cause the cat to lose weight and appear to be undernourished. As a result, the body continues transferring fat to the liver until the liver can no longer function under the heavy load. The liver will swell up causing the abdomen of the cat to appear swollen. You may even see a yellowing of the eyes in the cat. Please report these symptoms to your vet Tampa FL immediately.

Why your canine companion loves to follow you around

You have a dog in your life who loves you dearly and can usually be found right by your side. Why does she like to follow you around? 

Your pet likes to be by your side because she enjoys your company and she wants to interact with you. Being with a loved one helps her to stay calm and to feel safe in your home. It can also keep her out of trouble, as she knows you will look after her and help her to meet her needs. This  will keep her content as well, since the action in your household will likely be around you, so she knows she won’t be missing out on anything fun that’s going on if she is by your side. Your local vet clinic Portland, OR can help you care for your pet. Visit this site for more information.