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Pet Care

Heartworm Awareness Month Arrives

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Pet parents take all kinds of action to make sure that their pets are well cared for. From comfy beds, to interactive toys, training, and annual trips to the vet, we do most anything to keep our fuzz ball healthy and happy.

Something we may not always think about is heartworm disease. In all likelihood, you probably have your pet on a combination product that covers prevention for fleas, ticks, heart and other parasitic worms. Or do you?

Now is a great time to double check your preventive medication regimen. And while you’re scanning the medicine cabinet, here are a few things to bear in mind. [Read more…] about Heartworm Awareness Month Arrives

Get Out Your Toothbrush for Pet Dental Month

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You probably know that February is the designated month for your pet’s dental health. Most veterinarian offices offer discounts during February to encourage pet parents to take advantage of this important service.

But, what do you really need to do when it comes to your pet’s dental health and why?

First, you can take a quiz to find out how much you do, or don’t, know about your pet’s dental health by clicking here.

How did you do? Any surprises?

Things to watch out for that might be indicators of periodontal disease in your pet include: [Read more…] about Get Out Your Toothbrush for Pet Dental Month

Winter Weather and Your Pet

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Now that winter has arrived, adjusting to the season means different things to different pets.

If you have a pet that is older or has arthritis, colder weather may have an impact on their bodies. If your pet is due for their annual, or semiannual, wellness exam with their veterinarian, now is a good time to make sure that they get a thorough exam.

Tolerance to cold weather can vary from breed to breed and individual pet to pet. Observation can be one of your best tools. Taking note of their comfort level and how long they are able to tolerate the cold will go a long way towards being able to adjust how long they spend outdoors.

According to the American Veterinary Medication Association, factors that impact cold tolerance include coat, body fat stores, activity level, and health. [Read more…] about Winter Weather and Your Pet

Things To Know About Pet Diabetes Month

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Did you know that your pet could develop diabetes? If not, don’t beat yourself up. Most people are not aware that this could afflict their pets. 
According to Merrick Animal Health:
 
“Diabetes affects anywhere between 1 in 100 to 1 in 500 dogs and cats. The number of dogs diagnosed with the condition has tripled during the past 30 years. Risk factors that may contribute to the development of diabetes include age (middle-aged to older dogs and cats are more susceptible), genetics, breed and obesity.”
So, what should you look for? What are the signs?
  • Lethargy
  • Increased thirst
  • Frequent urination
There are a number of resources available for you if you think your pet may be exhibiting signs of diabetes. You can download a handy checklist; you can download a pet diabetes handbook; or a pet sitter checklist.  If you think you might have a diabetic pet on your hands, take this quick quiz and make an appointment with your veterinarian right away. 

 

 

 

What Do You Know About World Rabies Day?

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When pet owners discuss rabies, we often mention it in reference to vaccinations. Virtually every pet care provider, from groomers to daycare facilities, require the vaccination. 
 
This is great news for the majority of people in the United States. According to the CDC, the U.S. successfully eliminated the canine rabies virus. In order to keep it from returning, dogs and cats still need to be vaccinated to protect our pets from getting rabies from wildlife.
 
World Rabies Day is September 28th and was established in 2007. According to the CDC, rabies is a 100% preventable disease, but more than 59,000 people die around the world annually from it. The goal of major world health organizations is to eliminate rabies by 2030. 
 
To find out more about the work of the CDC’s rabies experts around the world, click here.