Articles
What Is An Abscess?
GENERAL DESCRIPTION A localized area of infection that generally looks like a lump or bump and contains pus. SOURCE & CAUSE(S) Abscesses generally form as the result of trauma to the skin and are most commonly the result of a cat or dog fight where the incidence of a puncture wound is high. Abscesses will form when the body detects bacteria or a …Read more »
Your dog's health
Preventive care Good preventive care begins with careful attention to the basics: Nutrition A healthy, nutritious diet builds a foundation for well-being and disease prevention throughout your Pet's life. As a dog ages, their nutritional needs change; for example, a puppy needs a diet high in calories and protein to maintain its active lifestyle and to grow healthy bones and muscles. An older …Read more »
Whet your dog’s appetite with wet food
The term “canned dog food” is all wet: Thanks to new flavors, additions and recipes, many manufacturers now prefer the phrase “wet dog food.” Which of the new products are best for your pet? Canned or bagged, wet or dry: These are basic choices you must face when perusing the pet food aisle of your favorite store. “Wet” products have undergone …Read more »
Healthy and happy for life: the importance of grooming and veterinary care for your dog
Beauty is more than fur deep Grooming goes far beyond a great hairdo, it's essential for your dog's health. Clipping his nails, brushing his teeth and keeping his coat clean and mat-free help prevent health issues and detect problems, like gum disease or parasites, that might otherwise go unnoticed. If you're a hands-on Pet Parent when it comes to grooming, make sure …Read more »
Your Kitten's Veterinary Visits: The First Year
Kittens ingest antibodies from their mother's milk that protect them against disease. Once they start to eat solid food, however, they need vaccinations from the veterinarian. Kittens should receive their first series of vaccinations when they're six weeks old. If you adopt a kitten from a shelter or buy one from a breeder, ask for the kitten's medical records. The kitten …Read more »
Uh Doc, My Dog's Got Critters
OK, so you just found out that Fido is running 30 head of tiny livestock on his "back 40." What the heck are you going to do about it? First of all, don't panic, we have many new weapons in the war on fleas. Let's take a look at the different flea control products available, and how best to utilize …Read more »
Why Diabetes Causes Excessive Thirst, Hunger in Cats
Diabetes mellitus is a serious medical condition where your pet cannot control her blood sugar levels due to problems with insulin production or function. It has many symptoms, but the most common that concerns Pet Parents are excessive urination, excessive thirst and eating while loosing weight. Glucose is the main energy source that body cells need to operate efficiently. Your cat’s digestive …Read more »
Know the Signs of Arthritis in Your Pet and How You Can Help Treat It
Arthritis is the inflammation of a joint, which can cause pain and/or swelling. Several types exist, including: Rheumatoid arthritis Degenerative arthritis Infectious arthritis Each of these types has a different cause. An arthritic joint can cause immense pain, especially in the morning and in cold weather. As your pet's advocate, it is up to you to watch for trouble. Call a veterinarian if your pet …Read more »
How You Can Prevent Kennel Cough in Your Pet
The term "Kennel Cough" sounds just awful doesn't it? It's certainly no picnic for your pet. And dogs aren't the only ones who can suffer from it - cats can contract it too. Fortunately, there is a vaccine available. Bordetella bronchiseptica is a bacterial agent that, along with several viruses, contributes to Canine Infectious Tracheobronchitis, or "Kennel Cough" disease. This infection …Read more »
The Common Signs of Hypothyroidism in Pets
If your pet is showing signs of "slowing down" or seems to be acting a bit sluggish, she could be demonstrating signs of hypothyroidism. Hypothyroidism happens when the thyroid gland doesn't produce enough of the essential hormones needed in the regulation of many vital body functions. It usually develops gradually and is rare in cats. Pets may exhibit one of many common …Read more »
