Clipping Your Dog's Nails

Do your dog's paws make a clacking sound as he walks across the room? If so, your pup may need his claws clipped.

Overgrown nails may not sound like a huge issue for dogs, but they actually can cause problems. For one thing, they can easily snag and tear on things. This can cause painful rips, and can even lead to infections. Plus, they're simply uncomfortable, just as long toenails are for us. Your dog may adjust his gait a bit to compensate, and he may shift his weight around. This puts a lot of stress on his bones and joints, which can contribute to or aggravate bone/joint issues, such as arthritis.

If you aren't sure how to clip your dog's nails, ask your vet to demonstrate proper techniques. You may find it useful to get a clipper with sensors. You can also contact your veterinary clinic Thorold, ON to schedule an appointment.

Can Apple Cider Vinegar Be Used For Dog Ear Infections?

Dogs brought to a veterinary clinic because of an ear infection is relatively common. Dog owners can easily spot or notice signs of an ear infection. However, treating ear infections can prove to be difficult to ensure that there wouldn’t be a recurrence. Outer ear infections can be identified when a dog begins to persistently shake its head and scratch its ears. Dog owners may also note a foul-smelling discharge escaping the dog’s ear, as well as, swelling and redness of the ear. 

Myth: Apple cider vinegar can be used as a remedy for ear infections.

Fact: Apple cider vinegar can be mixed with other ingredients to create an ear-cleaning solution for your pet. The problem with DIY solutions, however, these are not recommended by veterinarians because this may lead to an increased incidence of infection and possible damage to the sensitive ear tissues.

Any sign of an ear problem exhibited by your pet should require a visit to your veterinary clinic Seminole, FL. 

Pet Medication Side Effects

 

Just like humans, pet animals are also at risk of adverse drug reactions. Medications aim to cure an illness or alleviate a health condition. However, it is a fact that drugs can cause undesirable side effects. Among the common possible reactions to pets include allergies, infections, diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, breathing difficulty, weakness, and internal organ damage. Thus, pet owners need to inform their veterinarians about their pet’s medical history, such as previous illnesses and hospitalizations. Information on drugs or supplements the pet is consuming would be helpful as well before the veterinarian prescribes any new medications. It is necessary that pet owners not use the same medicines for several pets, as each pet has different body conditions. Pet owners should also ensure to give the pet the right dose. A veterinarian Marietta, GA should see the pet for diagnosis once an owner considers the pet displays signs of adverse reaction to a new medication. Visit this website for more information.

Feline Diabetes in Cats Like the Ragdoll

If you own a cat like the Ragdoll or even another breed then you may already be familiar with feline diabetes or sugar diabetes. Your vet can tell you that although diabetes is seen more in breeds such as the Ragdoll cat, it never hurts to study up on the disease and be on the lookout for symptoms in your own cat. Feline diabetes generally occurs when a cat’s body doesn’t produce enough insulin. Insulin is a hormone that is produced in a cat’s pancreas and is in charge of regulating the flow of glucose from the bloodstream into the body’s cells. When there isn’t enough insulin the cat’s body starts breaking down fat and protein reserves as an alternative. Ideally, the energy source should come from glucose and not stored fat and proteins. As a result the cat may start to lose weight and develop high blood sugar. Learn more here from your veterinarian Frisco, TX.

Obesity in Cats Like the Ragdoll Cats

Different cats can be prone to obesity no matter their breed. For instance, Ragdoll cats can be prone to obesity. Most cats enjoy eating their meals, treats, or any kind of snack in between. If we’re not mindful of what we feed our cats, extra pounds can turn into extreme weight gain or obesity. If you think your Ragdoll cat may be overweight or close to being overweight, contact your vet. Your vet can weigh your cat and let you know if his weight is low, high, or average for his particular breed. You can also do a quick check yourself. As a general rule, if you can easily see or feel the cat’s rib bones then he is too thin. If you cannot feel the rib bones beneath a layer of fat then he may be overweight. If you look at your cat from above, he should have a definite waist behind the ribs. Check your cat’s weight with your vets Plano, TX.

Tips For Walking Your Dog Safely

 

Did you know that people with dogs are less likely to be overweight than those who don't have pups? All those walks add up! They can also become quite routine, so it's easy to overlook or forget about potential hazards.

Lots of people like to wear earbuds while walking their dogs. There's nothing wrong with this, of course, but it's important to keep the volume at a reasonable level. You don't want to miss the sound of horns blaring, brakes squealing, or other dogs barking.

Walking on the side of the road can also be dangerous. Keep your dog on the outside, and walk facing towards oncoming traffic, so you can see what's approaching. Also, don't let your pet get in front of you, especially when crossing driveways, parking lot entrances, or intersections.

Your animal hospital Greater Cincinnati can offer you more safety tips to help you keep your pet safe. Don't hesitate to reach out with questions.

Typical Cat Owner Mistakes to Avoid

 

It takes courage and lifelong commitment to share your home with a pet cat. Like humans, cats have their own basic needs that you need to meet regularly. Cats are indeed independent animals, but they would still benefit and need a cat owner's care and attention. By being aware of the common mistakes that cat owners make, you will be able to avoid them and make your owner-and-cat relationship a lot better.

Declawing

Declawing is not really necessary. Declawing is a painful procedure for cats. You should consider other alternatives to declawing.

Considering a cat as a kind of property

A cat is not a thing or property. Treat it with care and commitment.

Quantity over quality when it comes to cat food choices

Money is hard to come by but you should not skimp on your beloved cat's food. Choose the best high-quality cat food you can afford and find.

Your local pet clinic Marietta GA is a valuable resource about your pet’s health and well-being.