A Kenneling Alternative

veterinarian

Consider Microchipping Your Pet

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In the chaos of moving from a house in the suburbs to a condo in the city, I missed one very important step. In the hundreds of updates, decisions, and changes that relocating can involve, I had forgotten microchipping. I hadn’t updated the contact information registered to my dog’s microchip.

When adopting from a shelter, microchipping is a given in most instances.  However, if you haven’t microchipped your pet you might want to consider doing so. It is a great way to ensure identification of your pet in the event a collar breaks, your pet panics and runs away during fireworks, or if your pet is lost during a natural disaster. [Read more…] about Consider Microchipping Your Pet

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. 

 

 

 

How Much Exercise Is Enough For Your Pet?

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Maybe your pants have felt a little snug as the pandemic continues. If you’re even putting pants on, that is.

But, what about your pets? Have you noticed them putting on some COVID weight as well?

Chances are that both you and your pet have seen a decrease in the amount of exercise over the last several months, which may account for the uptick on the scale. But as many locations have experienced heat waves and have limited areas to do outdoor activities, what is a person (and pet) to do?

Forbes reports that too little exercise is causing epidemic levels of canine obesity, lethargy and behavioral problems. The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals reports that one in four dogs is now considered obese. Heart disease and diabetes are spiking upwards in our canine companions as well.

First, as with any good column offering advice, we recommend you consult with your veterinarian first. I was not surprised to find out that my older dog had put on some weight. We both had. What was surprising was that she had gained roughly 13 pounds in less than a year.

WHAT? I exclaimed, baffled, to my pet’s doctor. After some thyroid medication adjustments and a repeat blood test, her weight was holding steady and the answer turned out to be medical.

If, however, your pet has a non-medical reason for weight gain, we offer up the following advice to help curb the gain.

Most entities suggest that you exercise your pet anywhere from 30 minutes to one hour per day. The types of exercise should consider:

  • Age
  • Breed
  • Health

A senior may not require high intensity exercise and a puppy may need something vigorous but not taxing on their growing bodies. If you happen to have an adult in good health you’ve hit the sweet spot for exercise.

Another factor to consider are weather related conditions, which make it harder for certain short nose breeds to breathe. And depending on where you workout with your pet, asphalt and concrete temperatures should be considered so as not to damage the pads on your dog’s paws.

As many times as you’ve heard it, we are all in this together. That includes taking the time to make sure both you and your pet find a way to get in enough exercise and the right type. After all, any activity that extends the length and quality of your pet’s life is one worth taking advantage of. 

We will see you and your pet outdoors, at a safe distance, soon!