We love our pets like family—but muddy paw prints all over the floors? Not so much. Whether it’s after a rainy walk, a backyard zoomie session, or just a quick potty break, those little muddy tracks seem to show up everywhere. Carpets, rugs, tile—nothing is safe.
Thankfully, there are a few smart products that make it way easier to stop muddy messes at the door before they spread all over the house. Here are three pet-parent-approved tools that really help:
A heavy-duty, absorbent mat placed right inside the door can catch a ton of dirt and water before your dog ever steps paw into the rest of the house. Look for ones made with microfiber or chenille fabric—they trap mud and dry paws quickly. Bonus: most are machine washable!
These little gadgets are seriously clever. You fill the cup with a bit of water, then gently twist your dog’s paw inside. Soft silicone bristles scrub away dirt and mud in seconds. It’s a quick, easy way to clean paws before your dog comes inside—especially if you don’t want to deal with full-on baths after every walk.
For muddy paws in a hurry (or for cats who won’t go near water), paw wipes are a great go-to. Keep a container by the door and do a quick wipe down after outdoor time. Look for ones that are gentle and safe for pets, ideally with natural ingredients.
With a few of these tricks in your toolkit, those muddy paw prints don’t stand a chance. Your floors stay cleaner, your pets stay comfortable, and you don’t have to mop every single day. Worth it.
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Please note, this article contains affiliate links, where I will receive compensation if you buy the product, without any extra cost to you.
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You should also note that the information provided is for educational and informational purposes only. Although I am a veterinary professional, this blog should not be used as a substitute for professional veterinary advice.
If your pet is experiencing a medical problem or concern, please contact a veterinary health professional immediately.
If you’ve ever stepped in a puddle next to the water bowl or found kibble flung halfway across the kitchen, you know the struggle. Some pets are just messy eaters—whether they splash, drool, knock things over, or think food bowls are toys. It’s frustrating, especially when you’re constantly wiping the floor or picking up soggy crumbs.
The good news? There are some smart, affordable products that can make mealtime a whole lot cleaner (and save your sanity). Here are three pet-parent-approved solutions to try:
A waterproof mat under your pet’s bowls is a game-changer. Look for one with raised edges to catch spills and a non-slip bottom to keep everything in place. It helps contain water splashes and dropped kibble and keeps your floors clean and dry. Bonus: most are super easy to wipe down or toss in the dishwasher.
Some pets love to push their bowls around—or accidentally tip them over while eating. A heavy ceramic or stainless steel bowl with a non-skid base can help keep things still. You can also find specially designed “non-tip” bowls that stay firmly in place no matter how excited your pet gets at mealtime.
If your dog eats like they’re in a race or your cat bats food out just for fun, a mess-control bowl might be your best bet. These bowls are shaped to reduce spills and slow down enthusiastic eaters. Some are even slightly elevated, which can help with posture and digestion, especially in older pets.
A few small changes can go a long way in cutting down the daily cleanup and making mealtime more pleasant for everyone—furry and human. Try one of these simple fixes and reclaim your clean floor!
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Please note, this article contains affiliate links, where I will receive compensation if you buy the product, without any extra cost to you.
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You should also note that the information provided is for educational and informational purposes only. Although I am a veterinary professional, this blog should not be used as a substitute for professional veterinary advice.
If your pet is experiencing a medical problem or concern, please contact a veterinary health professional immediately.
I recently wrote an article about why dogs are better than babies. If you haven’t had a chance to read it, you can check it out here.
The truth is that not every couple dreams of becoming parents. For many, their fur babies are enough for them. They don’t need to have a child in order to have a full life.
Unsure about whether or not you want to have a child? Here are some reasons why cats are better than babies.
They are much cheaper than children.
Having a child costs thousands of dollars a year, while your cat shouldn’t cost more than a thousand a year (unless he or she isn’t feeling well).
In fact, the cost of having a baby can really add up, costing you several thousand dollars. You might be able to get a cat or kitten for free (or very low cost)!
You also don’t have to go through labor.
You aren’t going to be the one who has to give birth when you get a kitten. You don’t have to deal with morning sickness, labor, possible emergency C-sections, and then working hard to get your figure back.
Cats can’t complain like children.
Children can become very whiny, especially when they are tired. They may not want to eat what you are serving. Toddlers are known for throwing temper tantrums. As they get older, they may want nice clothes and things like their friends have (such as cell phones).
Your cat could care less about any of these things. He or she will eat whatever you put in front of him or her. They also don’t need the latest gadgets.
You won’t find yourself doing homework.
Many parents have to relearn things that they learned in school, just to help their children with their homework. You may even have to find a new way to do things, just to get your children through school!
You also don’t have to bathe them.
Most parents hate bath time! Their children don’t enjoy it, and neither do they! Lucky for cat parents, their fur babies happily groom themselves. Some cats spend almost a third of their life grooming.
Raising children can feel like a crushing responsibility.
You may feel overwhelmed making sure that you are raising good people. You have to worry about the future of humanity, as well as worry about the world that your children will grow up in. You don’t have to worry about all of this when you have a cat. Everyone knows that they just do whatever they want, whenever they want!
You don’t have to worry about your cat getting knocked up.
In fact, by spaying and neutering your cat, you don’t have to worry at all! If your unspayed cat does get pregnant, you can give away the kittens for free.
Having pets gives you plenty of reasons not to host the next party.
Since many people are allergic to cats, you may not be able to have your friends over. You will have to be the one who shows up at parties and not hosts them! For many, the thought of throwing a party is just too much, and they are looking for any excuse. Having cats is a perfect one!
You can go away for a long weekend and not have to worry about your cats.
As long as you are able to leave some food and water out for them, your cats will be just fine. Leaving your children home alone is frowned upon when they are younger. When they are older, you may have to worry about the wild parties that your children may try to throw.
Though having children can be the best thing that ever happened to you, you also can make the choice not to have them. In fact, you may find yourself a mom to a cat, which might be the better choice for you! It is much less expensive to raise a kitten, than a child. You don’t even have to give birth!
Cats don’t complain. They eat whatever you give them. You don’t need to do homework with them. No baths! You can even leave them home alone for a long weekend without worrying. Though it is a responsibility, it is a much more crushing responsibility to raise a child! Your cat will be fine, no matter what happens, while you have to raise your children to be good people.
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It is important that you understand that the information provided is for educational and informational purposes only. Even though I am a veterinary professional, this blog is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice.
If your pet is experiencing a medical problem or concern, please contact a veterinary health professional immediately.
If you’ve ever tried to give your pet a pill, you know it can turn into a full-blown battle. They somehow know it’s medicine before you even open the bottle. Whether it’s spit out, hidden in a pile of drool, or flung across the room mid-chew—getting a pill down can feel like an Olympic sport.
The good news? There are some seriously helpful products out there that make this daily struggle a whole lot easier. Here are three go-to solutions that can actually help:
These are soft, flavorful treats with a built-in space to hide pills. You just pop the pill inside, pinch the treat closed, and hand it over like a normal snack. Most dogs—and many cats—have no idea there’s medicine inside. I’ve had the best luck with Greenies Pill Pockets, but there are plenty of options depending on your pet’s favorite flavors.
If treats don’t fool your furry friend, a pill dispenser can help. These handy little tools let you place the pill at the back of your pet’s mouth without risking your fingers. They’re especially helpful for cats or dogs who are quick to spit pills out. Just follow up with a treat and a cuddle, and you’re good to go.
Some medications can be crushed and mixed into food—but always check with your vet first. If it’s safe, a pill crusher helps you grind the tablet into a fine powder you can stir into wet food or a treat. A pill splitter is also useful if your pet needs a smaller dose and you want clean, accurate halves (without the crumbled mess).
At the end of the day, the best tool is the one your pet will actually tolerate. Try a few and see what works. With a little trial and error, giving meds can go from a nightmare to no big deal.
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Please note, this article contains affiliate links, where I will receive compensation if you buy the product, without any extra cost to you.
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You should also note that the information provided is for educational and informational purposes only. Although I am a veterinary professional, this blog should not be used as a substitute for professional veterinary advice.
If your pet is experiencing a medical problem or concern, please contact a veterinary health professional immediately.
If you’ve ever noticed your cat gobbling down their food in seconds, you’re not alone. While it might seem cute or funny at first, fast eating can actually cause some real issues—like vomiting, indigestion, or even obesity. Cats who eat too quickly often don’t give their bodies enough time to signal fullness, which can lead to overeating and discomfort.
That’s where slow feeders for cats come to the rescue. These specially designed bowls have ridges, bumps, or mazes that make your cat work a little harder for each bite. This naturally slows down their eating pace, turning mealtime from a quick gulp into a more relaxed and engaging experience.
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Using a slow feeder can help your cat digest better and avoid common tummy troubles like throwing up after meals. It also encourages healthier eating habits, which can support weight management and overall well-being. Plus, some slow feeders double as puzzle feeders, providing mental stimulation that keeps curious cats entertained during mealtime.
Most slow feeders are made with safe, durable materials that are easy to clean—an important bonus for busy cat parents. They come in a variety of fun shapes and sizes, so you can find one that suits your cat’s personality and eating style.
If your cat tends to eat too fast or gets stressed during meals, a slow feeder might be just what you need to create a calmer, healthier feeding routine. It’s a simple change that can make a big difference in your cat’s comfort and happiness.
Give your kitty the gift of slower, smarter eating—it’s a win for both of you!
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Please note, this article contains affiliate links, where I will receive compensation if you buy the product, without any extra cost to you.
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You should also note that the information provided is for educational and informational purposes only. Although I am a veterinary professional, this blog should not be used as a substitute for professional veterinary advice.
If your pet is experiencing a medical problem or concern, please contact a veterinary health professional immediately.
Whether you are newly married, or you have been for quite some time, you may be getting common questions about when you are planning on having children. However, you may not know how to answer these questions. You may have decided that you don’t want children, or you may still be unsure.
There are many couples who decide that they don’t want to have children. They prefer their fur babies, over anything else. In fact, there are many reasons why dogs are better than babies and children.
Here are some reasons why!
Dogs are cheaper than children.
This doesn’t mean that they are cheap. In fact, raising a puppy well is going to cost you some money. Purchasing a dog and providing good food and veterinary care is still cheaper than babies. The hospital stay alone could cost you more than you can imagine, let alone meals and eventually college.
You don’t have to go through pregnancy and labor to enjoy a dog.
You aren’t going to be the one who has to give birth when you get a puppy. You don’t have to deal with morning sickness, labor, possible emergency C-sections, and then working hard to get your figure back.
Your dog will love you forever.
Though your children are going to love you forever, there comes a point when they get embarrassed to be seen with you in public. They may not want you to hug and kiss them at the bus stop. They may not want you to come to school anymore. However, your dog will take any affection that he or she can get!
They also won’t hurt your feelings.
Children, especially teenagers are quick to tell you how they really feel. They don’t hesitate to tell you that they hate you, just because you did something that they didn’t like (or wouldn’t let them do something).
In fact, dogs and puppies are generally happy.
They just want love, attention, food, and a chance to play. Give them that, and your puppy will grow up to be a happy dog. You don’t have to deal with grumpy babies and toddlers who are overdue on a nap (or who might be crying for absolutely no reason at all)!
You will spend your life training a child and molding him or her into a good human being.
A dog doesn’t take near as long to train. Potty training may only take a few weeks (and is usually done before they are five or six months old).
Many puppies learn to sit, stay, and lie down in a few weeks. Most people can say that their puppies are well-trained by the time that they are one year old (at the latest). You will be grooming your child for eighteen years (or even longer).
Puppies will eat whatever you want, without complaining.
Getting babies to eat is a whole different ballgame. Eating isn’t always fun when you have babies and toddlers. In fact, you might have a picky eater that you spend years trying to get him or her to eat healthy.
More people are puppy and dog people than baby people.
Babies are not for everyone. In fact, your friends may get right on the floor to play with your new puppy, but be afraid to hold your new baby.
Raising children can feel like a crushing responsibility.
You may feel overwhelmed making sure that you are raising good people. You have to worry about the future of humanity, as well as worry about the world that your children will grow up in. You don’t have to worry about all of this when you have a dog.
You don’t have to worry about what you say in front of your dogs.
Children are very good at repeating what you say, so you have to be careful when you are talking (even if they aren’t around).
Though it is kind of cute, you don’t want your children swearing around their friends. You also don’t want your children repeating something that you said about someone. They are very good at telling your secrets! Dogs don’t ever tell anyone anything!
Raising a child is a big responsibility, so you may want to get a puppy instead! You don’t have to get pregnant, go through labor, and then try to get your old body back when you get a puppy. It is also cheaper to buy a puppy and raise it than it is a child.
Your puppy will also love you for the rest of your life. You don’t have to worry about embarrassing your dog out in public, or what your dog is going to say. He or she won’t repeat anything that you say.
It is also less responsibility. Sometimes raising the next generation can feel overwhelming, especially when we don’t quite know the world that we are raising our children in. Our dogs will be just fine, no matter what happens.
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It is important that you understand that the information provided is for educational and informational purposes only. Even though I am a veterinary professional, this blog is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice.
If your pet is experiencing a medical problem or concern, please contact a veterinary health professional immediately.
If you’ve ever watched your dog gulp down their meal like it’s the last food on earth, you know the worry that comes with fast eating. Dogs who eat too quickly can face problems like choking, indigestion, or even dangerous bloat. Plus, speedy eating often means your pup misses out on the pleasure of savoring their food—turning mealtime into a race instead of a relaxing moment.
That’s where slow feeders for dogs come in. These clever bowls are designed to make mealtime last longer by adding obstacles and grooves that encourage dogs to eat more slowly and mindfully. Instead of just diving in, your dog has to work a bit to get every bite, which helps slow down their eating pace naturally.
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Using a slow feeder can make a big difference for your dog’s health. Eating slower means less chance of choking or gulping air, which can reduce stomach upset and the risk of bloat—a serious condition that can be life-threatening. It also improves digestion and helps your dog feel fuller for longer, which is great if your furry friend is on a weight management plan.
Beyond the health benefits, slow feeders are easy to use and clean. Most are made from durable, pet-safe materials like silicone or BPA-free plastic and dishwasher safe, which means less hassle for you. They come in fun shapes and sizes too, so you can pick one that suits your dog’s personality and eating style.
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If your dog tends to scarf their food down, a slow feeder might just be the simple change that makes mealtime healthier and more enjoyable. It’s a small investment with big benefits—not just for your dog’s tummy but for their overall well-being. Plus, it can turn mealtime into a fun, engaging activity rather than a frantic gulp-fest.
So why not try a slow feeder and give your dog the gift of calmer, safer eating? Your pup—and your peace of mind—will thank you!
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Please note, this article contains affiliate links, where I will receive compensation if you buy the product, without any extra cost to you.
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You should also note that the information provided is for educational and informational purposes only. Although I am a veterinary professional, this blog should not be used as a substitute for professional veterinary advice.
If your pet is experiencing a medical problem or concern, please contact a veterinary health professional immediately.
If you’re someone who loves bringing your dog along for hikes, road trips, or even just long park hangs, you already know the importance of keeping them hydrated. But when it comes to packing light, you’ve probably asked yourself: Should I toss in a collapsible bowl or go with one of those all-in-one travel water bottles? Both are solid options—but they work best for slightly different situations.
Collapsible bowls are the classic go-to. They’re lightweight, super flat when folded, and easy to stuff into a backpack or clip to your leash. Once you’re ready to use it, just pop it open, pour in some water (or food), and you’re good to go. They’re great if you’re already carrying a water bottle for yourself and don’t mind sharing the supply. Plus, they work well for dogs who are picky about how they drink—some pups just prefer a wide, bowl-style drink station.
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Travel water bottles, on the other hand, are built for convenience. Most of them are leak-proof and come with a built-in dispenser or mini bowl, so you don’t have to fumble around with two separate items. Just squeeze or click a button, and water flows into the attached tray—super handy when you’re walking one-handed or managing a leash. They’re perfect for short walks, car rides, or keeping in your dog’s go-bag for quick hydration breaks.
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So, which is best? If you’re planning longer adventures or need something that can serve up both food and water, a collapsible bowl is probably your best bet. But if you’re more about convenience and quick hydration during shorter outings, a travel water bottle makes life a lot easier.
Honestly, many people keep both on hand—one for when they are out for hours, and one clipped to their belt (or in their bookbag) for everyday walks. Either way, your dog will appreciate the pit stops—and you’ll avoid that sad, thirsty look they give you when you’ve got nothing to offer. 🐶💧
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Please note, this article contains affiliate links, where I will receive compensation if you buy the product, without any extra cost to you.
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You should also note that the information provided is for educational and informational purposes only. Although I am a veterinary professional, this blog should not be used as a substitute for professional veterinary advice.
If your pet is experiencing a medical problem or concern, please contact a veterinary health professional immediately.
I recently wrote an article about getting a dog from a rescue or shelter. You may consider rescuing a dog for many reasons instead of getting a puppy. If you haven’t had a chance to read the article, you can check it out right here.
Now that you have decided to find a rescue dog, it can be both exciting and overwhelming. Many go for the first cute rescue that they find, but the truth is that you should choose a dog that will fit into your life instead of one that you can’t resist.
Here are some good questions to ask.
Where did he or she come from?
Sometimes, a dog has to go to a shelter due to a change in the family. The family might have had the dog since it was a puppy,, so you might be able to get detailed information about the dog, such as training, veterinary records, and any health concerns.
Then, there are dogs that have just been found with no history. They might have gotten lost and find themselves in need of a good home. You might also find dogs that have come from abusive situations. If you have young children or aren’t prepared for anything, you may want to look for one that comes with more information.
How long has he or she been at the shelter?
Though some dogs stay at the shelter for longer periods of time due to their conditions, the truth is that some dogs get picked over and over for months or years at a time. You should give a dog a home that has been overlooked.
How many homes has this dog already had?
If you do choose a dog that has been in the shelter for a while, you may want to find out if he or she has been at multiple homes. Some dogs find themselves in unsuitable homes and are returned. Dogs that have been in multiple homes may need a little extra love and attention (as well as patience) as they adjust to a forever home.
You may also want to make sure that they will take the dog back if it doesn’t work out with you.
Though you aren’t going to want to take a dog home, intending to bring it back, it is a good idea to ensure that you are able if something happens.
What is the dog’s personality like?
Though you may want to know what breed of dog you are getting, it is more important that you ask about his or her personality. If the dog has spent any time at the shelter, workers will probably know some things about him or her. They will be able to tell you what he or she likes. You might even be able to find out if they enjoy spending time with children, other dogs, or even cats. Workers should be able to tell you whether they enjoy walks on a leash or would prefer someone to play ball with in the yard!
How well is the dog trained?
Dogs and puppies that get rescued come in all shapes and sizes (as well as training). Some may have never been outside to use the bathroom, while others may be completely potty-trained. Some may walk well on a leash, while others still have their puppy instincts of biting, chewing, and jumping.
Though any dog may struggle in a new home (and regress), it helps to know how much work will be expected of you when you take in this new dog or puppy.
How healthy is my new friend?
Before most dogs and puppies are adopted, they go through a thorough examination by a veterinarian. They usually get fixed if they are not, as well as make sure that they are up-to-date on their vaccines. Many will get tested for intestinal parasites and heartworms before starting on preventative.
Some veterinarians will do bloodwork to make sure that they are sending out healthy patients. However, some rescues take in special cases where they are looking for someone willing to give a good dog with a bad situation a home. You have to make sure that you, your family, and your veterinarian are able to care for this dog properly before you take him or her into your home.
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Adopting a dog can be a great way to bring more love into your home. However, you need to be careful and find out as much information as possible about a dog before you bring him or her home. Make sure that you find out why he or she is in the shelter. Did his or her owner get sick and was unable to care for him or her properly? Was the dog or puppy found on the road with no history that you can find? If the shelter has had him or her for awhile, you might want to see how often the dog was adopted and returned.
Then, ask the people at the shelter about the dog. Is he or she friendly or shy? Happy to be out walking or prefer playing? Does the dog get along with other dogs, cats, and children?
You also need to make sure that your new friend is healthy, unless you are willing and able to take care of an older dog who needs some extra love and care. Then, you also need to make sure that you can take the dog back if you have to.
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Please note, the information provided is for educational and informational purposes only. Even though I am a veterinary professional, this blog is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice.
If your pet is experiencing a medical problem or concern, please contact a veterinary health professional immediately.
If you’re a cat parent, you know how picky and particular our furry friends can be—especially when it comes to feeding time. Unlike dry kibble, canned cat food is often the preferred choice because it’s fresher, more flavorful, and better for hydration. But feeding canned food on a schedule can be tricky. You don’t want to leave opened cans sitting out, and portion control is a real challenge. Plus, cats tend to get impatient (and vocal) when it’s time to eat but no one’s around to open the can or scoop the food.
If you’ve ever had to rush home to feed your cat or been woken up by early morning meows, you’ll appreciate the convenience of a canned cat food self-feeder. This handy gadget is designed specifically to store, portion, and serve canned cat food automatically—so your kitty can enjoy fresh meals on a schedule, even when you’re busy or away.
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Here’s how it works: you load the feeder with your cat’s favorite canned food, and the machine keeps it fresh until it’s time to serve. At the pre-set meal time, the feeder automatically opens a portion of canned food and places it in the bowl. Some models even let you schedule multiple feedings a day, perfect for cats who do better with smaller, frequent meals. No more worries about food drying out or mealtime delays.
One of the biggest benefits is portion control. Overfeeding is a common issue with canned food because it’s easy to give too much, which can lead to weight gain and health problems. A canned cat food self-feeder takes the guesswork out by serving consistent portions every time. This helps your cat maintain a healthy weight and supports their digestion.
Another huge plus: many models come with easy-to-clean parts and airtight compartments to keep the food fresh and tasty. And if you have a shy or nervous cat who prefers to eat when no one’s watching, this feeder allows them to stick to their routine without any stress.
If you’ve struggled with feeding canned food on time, or if your schedule keeps you away from home during mealtimes, a canned cat food self-feeder could be a total game-changer. It takes the hassle out of feeding, reduces stress for both you and your cat, and ensures your furry friend gets the fresh, delicious meals they deserve—right on time, every time.
So, if you want to simplify your cat’s feeding routine and make sure they never miss a meal, consider investing in a canned cat food self-feeder. Your cat will appreciate the consistency, and you’ll appreciate the extra peace of mind.
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Please note, this article contains affiliate links, where I will receive compensation if you buy the product, without any extra cost to you.
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You should also note that the information provided is for educational and informational purposes only. Although I am a veterinary professional, this blog should not be used as a substitute for professional veterinary advice.
If your pet is experiencing a medical problem or concern, please contact a veterinary health professional immediately.
