Why Is My Senior Dog Losing Weight?

Similar to humans, our pets will eventually grow old as well. Along with aging is the deterioration of their mental and physical abilities. They’re not going to have the same energy and vigor as they once had when they were younger. Weight loss in senior pets can be caused by several factors. On top of the list is senior pets becoming more picky with their food. Loss of appetite may also be attributed to tooth and gum problems. And, naturally, as their senses deteriorate, they will lose the ability to determine different flavors in their food, they won’t be able to taste as much. Thus, preparing food with a stronger aroma can help entice your senior pets to eat more. Also, always remember to feed your pet lifestage-appropriate food. Senior pets have special nutrient requirements that can only be met with a complete and balanced diet for their lifestage. 

Your senior pet will benefit from more regular health checks at your vet clinic Gresham, OR. To know more, click this link: https://portlandpetclinic.com/

Keeping your cat off your kitchen counters

Your cat loves to hop up onto your kitchen counters in order to see what’s up there and to view the room around her. How can you keep her off of this area?

Your little fur ball needs to understand that you don’t prefer her spending time on your countertops. Offer her a distraction when she tries to head up to this area and make a point to remove her from this space should she still hop onto them. You can also take the time to find a suitable alternative for her to use instead of your counters that will give her a similar vantage point. Make this appealing to her and take the time to encourage its use so the counter won’t hold the same appeal any longer. For more information, please contact your local vet clinic Fort Collins CO.

Helping your cat get the rest she needs

Your feline friend is a wonderful companion and you know that she needs plenty of rest in order to thrive in your care. How can you help her get the rest she needs?

Your little fur ball needs you to help her rest by offering her a place to call her own. This will likely be a bed where she can relax and stretch out to get as comfortable as she can be. Be sure to offer this to her in an area where she is comfortable, safe, and able to sleep without being disturbed. Make sure her needs are met in a timely fashion so she will be able to rest and relax without having to worry about any other tasks when it comes time for her to take a nap. For additional information, please contact your local vet clinic Covington GA.

Poison Ivy in Cats

Did you know that your cat can pick up or be a carry of poison ivy? Your cat may not necessarily break out in a rash of her own or even start itching excessively. However, she could have the poison ivy toxins on her coat and if you pet her then you could get poison ivy. It’s important to keep poison ivy cleaned up and cut down around your property to prevent your cat from getting into it. Poison ivy is common in wooded areas and can grow as shrubbery, groundcover or climbing tree vines. The plant is identified by three almond shaped leaves and its hairy vine. It is often light to dark green in the summer or a bright red or yellowish orange in the fall. Your cat may be just a carrier or she could develop a rash around her underarms or on her belly. If you see a red rash on her, please call your vet Glen Ellyn IL .

The Belgian Malinois

Are you familiar with the Belgian Malinois (Mal-En-Waw)? This canine breed is one of the most intelligent breeds around. But know up front, this dog is often recommended only for owners that are willing and able to put a lot of time and hard work into this breed as the breed tends to require extensive and consistent training. The Malinois is often referred to as the Mal. He originated in the 1800s when a group of Belgian trainers were looking to perfect the sheep herding dog breed. The came up with the Malinois, a dog with black ears and a cat that can come in light fawn or even a deep mahogany coloring. The Malinois has a dark muzzle and a strong jaw with scissor like teeth. Training is critical from 8 weeks to 6 months of age with an emphasis on socialization. The breed is similar to the German Shepherd. Give your vet Pasadena MD a call for more details.

The Maine Coon Cat

The Maine Coon Cat is a popular pet option. Why is this breed so sought after?

This breed is rather large and sturdy, making them well-suited to harsh conditions. This helped them out greatly in the wild, as they are native to the northeast region of the United States. Their coat helped out as well, since they are considered a longhaired feline. They have a thick, robust tail which can be used for additional warmth as well. The Main Coon Cat is a wonderful housemate, as these cats are not only very intelligent, but also patient and loving. They will enjoy interacting with you and generally form close relationships with the people they spend time around. They are great around children and have even been known to enjoy time around other pets in the family. For additional information, please contact your local animal hospital Chico CA.

What Are The Benefits Of Microchipping Dogs

Putting microchips on pets is now being considered as the most reliable method to identify pets. A microchip is an important tool in helping find lost pets and reuniting them with their owners. The miniscule size of a microchip makes it simple and quick to insert into the pet's skin. It will take only a few minutes for your veterinarian to do it. Since it’s under the skin, it's difficult to lose it unlike dog tags and collars. 

Microchipping dogs is a growing trend nowadays, as more and more pet owners bring their pets along during their travels locally and internationally. 

Dog microchips have two critical components that make it work perfectly: the microchip scanner plus the easy-access database. 

Despite recent controversies about microchips being unreadable by certain microchip scanners, dog microchip companies have stepped up and improved the microchipping technology through the years. There are also the so-called ‘generic scanners’ that can read and detect all brands and types of microchips in dogs. 

If you have concerns and/or questions about microchips in dogs, don’t hesitate to speak with your veterinarian Gresham, OR.