Kennel Cough In Dogs

 

Dogs with kennel cough emit a sound like that of a honking goose. The honking sound can be accompanied by foamy discharges, choking, or gagging. You will also find your dog lacking the energy he used to have and he may develop a fever. However, aside from these symptoms, affected dogs appear to be active and healthy.

Kennel cough is highly transmissible from one dog to another. The affected dogs spray loads of the virus into the air when they sneeze or cough. Close interaction could also lead to the virus being transmitted. A dog may also acquire the problem through contact with contaminated objects. Spending time with other dogs in daycare or at a dog park can also increase the risk of acquiring kennel cough.

Learn more about what preventative measures can be done to protect your dog from kennel cough by asking your vet Spring Hill, TN.

Heartworm Disease In Cats

Heartworms are parasites acquired by mosquitoes from infected animals and transmitted when they bite cats, dogs, and other susceptible animals. Heartworm disease is more life-threatening and serious in cases of cats than it is for dogs. The bodies of felines poorly react to the presence of these parasites. Even when cats have this parasite, they could be asymptomatic and this means that they will not show any symptoms. In some cases, however, the cats will die without showing any signs because of respiratory system distress. A lot of cases of heartworm disease in cats are difficult to be diagnosed correctly since the symptoms are very much the same as that of other certain medical conditions. Even if there are only a few adult heartworms in a cat’s body, the prognosis can be poor.

You should invest in the preventive medication of your pet and keep your cat indoors as much as possible, and install screens on your home to prevent mosquitoes from entering your house.

Consult your vet clinic in Frisco, TX about a heartworm preventive program for your pet.

Improving The Quality Of Life Of Arthritic Dogs

Dogs suffering from painful arthritis live a miserable life. The intense pain prevents them from performing and enjoying regular daily activities as well as reduces their flexibility. Fortunately, there are ways you can help make life easier and more pleasant for your arthritic pet.

●        Heating Pads -- Heating pads provide relief from aches while promoting relaxation of muscles, and stimulating acupuncture points.

●        Comfortable Bed -- There are doggie beds that are specifically designed for arthritic dogs. These beds are built in such a way that allows dogs with joints pains to get in and out of the bed easily. These beds are also designed with padding for comfort and support.

●        Canine Massage -- Regular massage promotes blood circulation, eases sore muscles, reduces stress, and lowers blood pressure. Massage sessions are also excellent opportunities to bond with your pet, as well as check your pet’s body for bumps, lumps, and other abnormalities.

●        Acupuncture -- Veterinary acupuncture stimulates the release of natural anti-inflammatory substances and natural pain relievers of the body.

Work with your veterinarian Plano, TX in managing your pet’s arthritis and improve the animal’s quality of life.

Tips For Handling Hedgehogs

Hedgehogs can be intimidating to handle because people worry about their quills.  However, a hedgehog’s quills are different from a porcupine’s which are prickly and barbed. Knowing how to properly handle a pet hedgehog is essential to the pet owner because socialization and interaction with your pet are important.

Initially, you may want to wear gloves, like the gardening kind, for the first couple of handling instances.  If not used to being handled by people, hedgehogs can be anxious and jumpy, so be sure your voice is soothing and calm.  Softly slide your hand under your hedgehog’s belly, lifting his body, while sliding the other hand underneath. For stability, you may hold the hedgehog closer to your body, cupping your hands slightly.

Your veterinarian Aurora, CO is a valuable resource when it comes to your pet’s health and behavior.

More tips can be found at your Aspen Commons Animal Hospital.

Some Do’s And Don’ts When Sharing Food With Your Dog

 

Although giving human food or table leftovers to dogs are frowned upon by some, some leftovers are healthy and safe to share with your fur buddy.

A major cause of obesity in dogs is feeding them with human food, which is a serious concern. Any excess food will naturally mean gaining a few more calories to your dog’s ration. If you choose to give your dog human food that is high in calories, fats, and sugars, the risk of obesity to your dog will surely increase. So always keep in mind that the key is moderation to what your dog eats.

Puppies have a greater risk of becoming obese. However, giving human food in small amounts that are found to be healthy may stop your dog from gaining weight at a high rate.

To ensure that your dog is having the right prescription of exercise needed to stay in optimal condition, talk to your animal hospital Columbia MD.

Keeping your dog's content in your home

 

You have a dog in your life who needs to be able to count on you to help her feel at ease in your care. How can you keep her content in this space?

Your little fur ball wants to make sure you are able to offer her lots of ways to relax and this will make a big difference in her overall enjoyment within your home. Keeping her content will involve looking after her and taking the time to get to know her well. This will help you better grasp her needs so you can give her what she needs for space, attention, and pet supplies. Your little fur ball will want to be able to count on you, so make sure you are able to be there for her. For more information, please talk to your veterinarian Marietta, GA.

Coat Shedding in Ferrets

Ferrets shed their coats daily. They have thin hair, so when ferrets shed, the hair does not come off in lumps unlike those of heavily-coated dogs and cats. A pet owner is most likely to see shed strands after stroking a ferret, which is normal. Ferrets may undergo heavy shedding seasonally, during spring and autumn, to enable the growth of a thicker coat in preparation for the winter season. Some ferrets also experience abnormal shedding. The most common indicators of abnormal shedding in ferrets are bald patches and heavy shedding that is out of season. Abnormal shedding is sometimes a result of an underlying medical condition, such as thyroid and hormonal problems. The mating period and environmental stressors also contribute to abnormal shedding. Ferrets suffering from abnormal shedding need medical treatment, especially if the cause is related to a health problem. Pet owners should also observe their pets as ferrets are prone to ingesting their hair during coat self-grooming, potentially causing blockage and constipation.

Excessive shedding in pet ferrets should warrant a visit to your vet clinic Aurora CO.