Canine Diabetes

 

Did you know that canine diabetes can affect a large number of dog breeds? What is canine diabetes? In general, canine diabetes occurs when there isn’t enough insulin in a dog’s body causing the body to break down fat and protein reserves as energy alternatives. As a result the dog may start to lose weight and develop high levels of sugar in the bloodstream. Like humans, dogs produce insulin in the pancreas and release it into the cells in response to digested proteins turning it into glucose in the bloodstream. When there is a lack of insulin or the body doesn’t know what to do with the insulin then the glucose remains in the bloodstream. Dogs that have diabetes will most likely be extremely thirsty and urinate frequently. Call your veterinarian Tampa, FL if your dog is showing signs of diabetes. Your vet will be able to run tests and let you know if your dog is diabetic or not.

Are Hamsters Social Creatures?

 

Some hamsters are social while others are not. It really depends on the type of hamster you have. If you’re not sure what kind of hamster or hamsters you own, ask your vet. Dwarf hamsters are extremely social creatures and love each other’s company. It’s recommended that you have at least two dwarf hamsters so that they have a playmate. Syrian hamsters, however, are not social at all. Syrian hamsters are extremely territorial and will fight for their space. It’s recommended that Syrian hamsters be introduced to one another before they are five weeks old or else you will not have a happy match. As for communicating, hamsters use body language and squeaks and squeals to “talk” with one another. High pitched squeaking may indicate your hamster is frightened. Yawning often communicates contentment more than exhaustion. Dwarf hamsters tend to cuddle. Learn more here or talk with your expert vet clinic Tampa, FL.

How Much Water Should My Dog Drink?

It’s very important for our canine friends to stay well-hydrated. Getting plenty of water throughout the day is essential for the proper functioning of various bodily systems, and it helps keep your pet from becoming dehydrated. But how can you know if your dog is getting enough? 

It’s recommended that your dog gets about 1 ounce of water per pound of body weight every day. This means that a 10-pound dog should drink around 10 ounces of water every day or a little over one cup. Most dogs will drink their fill if they have access to clean, fresh water throughout the day, so it’s usually not something pet owners need to be concerned about. 

If you think your dog isn’t drinking enough water, however, it’s worth getting a professional opinion. Consult your veterinarian Anderson, IN for help if you think Fido isn’t getting the water he needs. It’s better to play it safe than be sorry.

Parvovirus In Dogs

 

Canine parvovirus or simply parvovirus is a contagious viral disease affecting dogs, especially puppies. If left untreated, this can lead to a dog’s death. This can be prevented with vaccination. Puppies aged 2 to 5 months are more likely to get infected with parvovirus. Unvaccinated puppies with immature immune systems have higher rates of infection. Dogs suffering from parvovirus can develop symptoms overnight. After exposure to the virus, a previously healthy puppy may present with vomiting, fever, and severe diarrhea. This is often accompanied by poor appetite and a depressed mood. Diagnosis is based on symptoms and can be confirmed with a blood test. The virus spreads throughout the body and will attack various organ systems primarily the immune system and gastrointestinal (GI) system. Blood vessels supplying the GI tract are also damaged by the virus resulting in bloody diarrhea. Profuse diarrhea will then lead to severe dehydration which would require intensive care. Taking preventive measures to protect your dogs or puppies from getting infected with parvovirus should be a priority since there is no cure for it. Veterinarians can only offer supportive care or treatment.

Consult a veterinarian Bend, OR to know more about how to protect your dog from the deadly canine parvovirus.

Is Rawhide Dangerous for Dogs?

 

Rawhide, at one point in time, was a popular and most often recommended type of dog chew treat. However, through time it has been determined that rawhide is not suitable for all dogs as it is not easily digestible. If you’re not sure about giving rawhide to your poodle then you should talk to your vet. Your vet can help you determine if you should give your poodle rawhide or find another alternative. Rawhide does not affect all dogs equally. Some owners have found that rawhide irritates their pet’s stomach. Others have found their dogs are not able to digest rawhide. Encouraging your poodle to chew on treats and toys can help relieve boredom and anxiety as well as prevent tarter build up. However, rawhide is not the only option for your poodle’s chewing needs. There are many rawhide free alternatives including bones that appear to be rawhide, but are in fact covered with an all organic and all natural vegetable chewing layer. Ask your vets Davie, FL for details. Read more here.

Can Rabbits Be Trained To Walk On A Leash ?

 

Rabbits are one of the pet animals that are highly-trainable. Just like other pets, rabbits need physical exercise as well. However, if you plan to bring your pet for a walk outdoors, it is best to use a leash. Pet owners can certainly train their pet rabbits to walk using a leash. As rabbits love to explore when they are outdoors, they are unlike dogs that walk side-by-side with their owners. Pet owners usually just let their trained rabbits roam and follow them while holding the leash. When leash-training your pet, take note that rabbits still retain in them their prey instincts even after domestication. As such, they are always watchful of what is happening in their immediate environment and may become initially hostile to training. Just like with other animals, pet training requires patience from owners. Likewise, pet training becomes effective when owners use positive reinforcement.

Any sign of illness should be brought to the attention of your veterinarian Crown Point IN.

Hypoallergenic Poodles

 

Most dogs that are considered to by hypoallergenic are dogs that are basically safe for people with allergies to be around. It’s important to understand that some hypoallergenic dogs can still set off allergies. Poodles are among the hypoallergenic breeds. What does this mean? Poodles have a hair like coat instead of typical dog fur. They seldom shed and have low to no dander in their coats. Because of this unique trait, poodles have been crossbred to create even more hypoallergenic dogs. Crossbreeds include the Labradoodle (bred with a Labrador), the Whoodle (bred with the Soft Coat Wheaten Terrier), and the Cockapoo (bred with a Cocker Spaniel). Keep in mind that because a poodle’s coat contains hair that is more human than dog it requires more upkeep than most dogs. Experts recommend bathing a poodle every two weeks to maintain a conditioned coat. Click here to learn more or contact your vets Folsom, CA.