Have You Considered a Hypoallergenic Exotic Pet?

Do you have allergies to pet dander? That might mean you can’t have a dog or cat the way most people can. But don’t worry—there are still pet options out there for you. And if you’re looking for a unique option, a hypoallergenic exotic pet might fit the bill.

Reptiles and amphibians are one example. Pets like turtles, snakes, frogs, and lizards don’t shed dander. Fish are another option. While they can’t be taken for walks or cuddled, they’re fascinating to care for and observe. You might also consider a ferret; they’re related to weasels and don’t give off dander the way cats and dogs do. If you’re not squeamish, an arachnid pet like a tarantula or a scorpion might do the trick. 

Learn more about each of these hypoallergenic exotic pet options by calling your veterinary clinic Crown Point, IN today. We’ll help find the perfect fit for you and your family! 

Keeping Your Cat From Tracking in Dirt

If you own a cat like the American Curl or another feline breed then you probably already known how cats often track in dirt after spending the day playing, pouncing, digging, etc. If this is what you deal with on a routine basis then you may want to ask your vet about using pet wipes to keep your American Curl clean. You can purchase pet wipes at most pet stores and possibly in your local super market stores as well. Pet wipes work a lot like baby wipes for kids. You can use them to quickly clean up a little or a lot of dirt. Try keeping a box of pet wipes by the door. When your American Curl comes inside, detain her long enough to gently wipe her paws. Don’t overly wipe her legs or other parts of her body as she will most likely take care of grooming herself later. Learn more from your vets Burlington, ON.

Traveling With A Pet Turtle: What You Need To Know

Going on a trip can be stressful for turtles. But if you need to bring the turtle along with you, it would be good to prepare beforehand. You need to plan ways to help the turtle be comfortable.

You can prepare a plastic box for your turtle. Drill some holes in the box to give ventilation. Then make sure that the lid closes properly so the turtle will not have the chance to escape. You can also add an old towel or shirt to the box as padding. Check that there are no loose loops of thread on the padding that will get caught in the turtle's claws. Even old newspapers will do the trick. But the most important thing to consider is that the turtle should have adequate space in the box.

Some turtles are okay when they are out of the water for some time. But if you are taking the turtle on a long trip, you might want to dampen the padding. Do this so that the box will have moisture to keep the turtle cool. But don't keep it too cold because turtles need to be warm as well. There are turtle breeds, such as the red-eared turtles, that are okay being away from the water for a longer time.

Any sign of illness exhibited by your pet should require an appointment with your veterinary clinic Fort Myers, FL.

Understanding Redirected Aggression In Pet Cats

 

Cats can have a behavior problem known as redirected aggression.  It happens if your cat becomes too agitated or frustrated but she is not able to focus her attack on that thing that made her feel like that.  As her frustration mounts, your cat will become upset, then she will abruptly become aggressive towards some other target.  That target might be a human or another animal.  Take for example when your cat looks outside a window and spies another cat, however, she cannot go outdoors.  Signs that your cat is agitated, include hissing, growling, and various other aggression-related actions.

Should you observe that your cat is close to unleashing an attack towards you, it will be best to stay away from her until she calms down.  Should the aggression be directed towards another pet, try and separate that possible target from the aggressor.  Never attempt to comfort your cat by holding her when she gets this way.  Instead, try and coax her inside a darkened room to aid her in regaining her calm.

If you have concerns about your pet’s behavior, contact your vet clinic Cherry Hill, NJ.

Degenerative Myelopathy in Dogs Like the Irish Setter

 

Different breeds have different health conditions that are commonly associated with them. For instance, some Irish Setters have been known to develop Degenerative Myelopathy (DM).  DM is an incurable disease of the nerves and spinal cord. This disease can lead to the loss of mobility and numbness or loss of feeling in the legs. Some experts have compared it with ALS or Lou Gehrig’s Disease in humans. DM is considered to be a chronic, progressive, degenerative disease that leads to eventual paralysis. Signs or symptoms of the disease usually appear later in life in most Irish Setters and affects the hind limbs causing a decrease in mobility. Although there is no set treatment for this disease, some owners have found various types of physical therapy to help prolong quality of life. If your Irish Setter has been diagnosed with DM, talk with your vet Middletown DE, the Galena Animal Medical Clinic to learn more about treatment options.

Stress-Related Behavior Changes In Pet Cats

Changes in household routines can be a cause for stress in pet cats.  Changes like modifying feeding routines, litter box replacements, the move to another home, or introducing new family members or new pets.  You will start to notice that your cat feels uncomfortable when these sudden changes happen to her surroundings.  This stress can cause behavioral problems like escape attempts, destroying various home items, or refusing to use her litter box.  To avoid having your pet feel anxiety, try to pinpoint what is causing the stress so you can remove it.  If you do need to implement changes like modifications to her food, gradually doing it is better.  But if your pet does persistently exhibit undesirable stress-related behaviors, take her to your vet.  Ask for suggestions in dealing with behavior problems.  Your vet clinic Anderson, IN might also prescribe medication to combat your pet’s anxiety if needed. 

Dog Toy Safety Tips: Toy Parts

 

If you are looking for the appropriate toy for your pet dog, one of your considerations would be to check its material and composition. A safe pet toy should meet your dog’s preference, your criteria as owner, and detachable parts. You don’t want to give toys to your pet that might come apart.

Similarly, you might want to think twice about giving plush toys to your pet dog.  Although plush toys are great for fetching and chasing, this is not a good toy for your pet. This toy is soft, and your dog will have no problem chewing and ingesting the parts when you are not around. You might have to bring the pet to the hospital.

A safer option would be to get rubber toys. A rubber toy is a safer option because it is durable. You will not have to worry about your dog playing with it unsupervised. But don’t forget to account for the size and the dog’s fondness for biting.

Your vet New Orleans LA is a valuable resource when it comes to your pet’s health and needs.