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Author: Shelley

  • Should I Be Concerned About My Overweight Dog?

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    The truth is that many people assume their dogs are a healthy weight when they are truly a few pounds (or more) overweight. Most people think that dogs should look a certain way, and when they are a healthy weight, they look skinny. In fact, some owners get told that their dogs need to gain weight when their weight is really where it should be.

    Because of that, you need to understand what is at risk if you don’t keep your dog at a healthy weight.

    So, what kinds of problems are you looking at when it comes to overweight dogs?

    Overweight dogs are more likely to suffer from the following:

    • Diabetes mellitus
    • Heart disease
    • High blood pressure
    • Pain in the joints, which can turn into arthritis as your dog ages
    • In fact, arthritis and joint deterioration can happen faster when your dog is overweight.
    • Urinary tract infections and bladder stones
    • Complications from surgery

    So, how can you tell if your dog is overweight?

    Here are some signs that your dog weighs more than he or she should.

    His or her silhouette. 

    When your dog is standing still, he or she should have a waistline. His or her body should indent on the side instead of being straight or sticking out in the abdominal area. You also want to see the belly tucks up, instead of hanging to the ground.

    You can feel your dog’s ribs. 

    You are going to want to be able to feel the ribs easily. Though there may be a little padding, if there is a lot of padding (or you can’t feel the ribs at all), your dog needs to lose some weight.

    Your dog may not be as active as normal. 

    Though your dog may be slowing down as he or she ages, the truth is that he or she should have plenty of energy. Your dog should continue to want to take walks on a daily basis, as well as play ball in the yard.

    Why is my dog gaining weight?

    There are many reasons why your dog may be gaining weight. Some are due to factors that you can control, and others may be due to a condition that they are dealing with.

    Here are some of the most common reasons why your dog may be gaining weight.

    You are feeding too much. 

    As your dog ages, he or she won’t need as much food. You need to start to adjust their daily feeding depending on their stage of life. You may be surprised by how little food your dog needs to eat in a day, especially when your dog becomes an adult.

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    Your dog isn’t getting enough exercise. 

    In order for your dog to stay in shape, you need to find ways to build exercise into his or her life. This may include walks in the park, playing ball in the backyard, and even going to the dog park.

    It may be in your dog’s genetics. 

    Certain breeds are more prone to obesity, so if you own a dog that is more commonly overweight, you need to be even more careful with how much you are feeding your dog.

    Some of the most common dogs that are overweight are Labs, Cocker Spaniels, Beagles, Dachshunds, and much more.

    Certain medications may cause your dog to gain weight. 

    The most common medication is Prednisone, though there are many different medications that can make it easy for your dog to pack on the pounds.

    Hypothyroidism and Cushing’s Disease will often cause weight gain, which is why you should have your dog checked out by a veterinarian when you start the weight loss journey.

    So, what can you do to help your dog to lose weight?

    Taking your dog to the veterinarian should be the first step in the weight loss process. Your veterinarian will help you determine what your dog should weigh, as well as rule out any problems which may be the reason why your dog weighs more than he or she should.

    Photo Courtesy of Canva

    If you want to learn more, you can check out my other article, Tips for Weight Loss in Dogs and Cats, about helping your pet to lose weight. If interested, you can check it out right here. 

    ***

    Please note, 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. 

  • Why You Should Use An Ethical Breeder

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    I recently wrote an article entitled Yes, You CAN Get a Puppy If You Want One. If you haven’t had a chance to read it, you can check it out here.

    The comments, especially from other veterinary professionals, weren’t very nice. They ripped me apart, both in terms of the topic and the writing style. I was pretty upset about all the comments I received, since I was just trying to write a piece to help people not feel bad if they genuinely wanted a puppy.

    One of the main concerns about the article was that it didn’t address the issue of ethical breeding versus backyard breeding at all. For this reason, I have decided to write what ethical breeding really is.

    So, what is ethical breeding?

    Ethical breeders are ALL about the breed. 

    They want to preserve the breed so that they will breed only the best representatives of the breed. They will even go above and beyond, conducting health testing to ensure that they are selling the highest quality and healthiest animals possible.

    This may include OFA (Orthopedic Foundation for Animals) testing. They have a database of tests that can be run to make sure that puppies will be less likely to have genetic problems (such as hip dysplasia).

    They may also request that you visit their home or kennel before picking a puppy. 

    You will want to ensure that the puppies appear healthy, happy, and clean. Are they active and playing around? Are they a good weight and look solid? Does the mother look delighted to be with them? You can tell a lot about a breeder by looking at their moms and puppies.

    That being said, during COVID, more and more people did visits like this over Zoom. If the breeder isn’t close to you, you can request a visit online so that you can still take a look at the breeder’s setup and how their animals look.

    Photo Courtesy of Canva

    They will require a contract to ensure that their puppies get taken care of. 

    They may ask you what you are planning to do with your dog. The breeder may require you to spay or neuter your pet at a certain age. They may also ask that you return the dog to you if anything happens. Regardless of the dog’s age, owners would prefer to take them back rather than have the dog end up in a shelter.

    Ethical breeders want the best for their puppies. 

    This includes ensuring that they receive the socialization they need to raise healthy and confident dogs. They work with their puppies on socialization and training to ensure that they are ready to be homed.

    Because they do so much with their puppies, they have a good idea of what each puppy will need.

    Good, ethical breeders match puppies with families. You don’t get to choose a puppy. You let the breeder know what you are looking for (show, pet, working, etc.) and they will figure out which puppy will best fit your lifestyle. If you are active and prefer the outdoors, they will ensure that you get a puppy that is confident and playful. If you are looking for a companion to sit beside you, they will help you find the right dog for you. If you have little ones, they will choose a puppy that they think will handle your children.

    Photo Courtesy of Canva

    Ethical breeders are all ABOUT the breed. They are going to choose the best parents to ensure that their puppies are of high quality and are able to do what they were bred for. They spend a lot of time with their puppies and will do what they can to ensure they are properly socialized. They will also help you choose the right puppy for you, rather than allowing you to choose one that you want. Not only that, but they are happy to match puppies with the right family.

    ***

    Please note, 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. 

  • Why Does My Dog’s Breath Smell So Bad? (And How to Fix It!)

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    We all love our dogs. They snuggle with us, greet us like rock stars when we come home, and always seem to know when we need a little comfort. But let’s be honest—sometimes they open their mouths and… yikes. That breath could knock you over!

    If you’ve ever leaned in for a kiss and changed your mind, you’re not alone. Bad breath in dogs is super common, but that doesn’t mean it should be ignored. In fact, stinky breath is often a sign that your pup’s mouth needs some help.

    What Causes Bad Breath?

    Most of the time, doggy halitosis is caused by plaque and tartar buildup, just like in humans. Bacteria collect along the gum line and, if left unchecked, can lead to dental disease. And while kibble alone doesn’t cut it when it comes to oral hygiene, the good news is there are some easy, dog-approved ways to help freshen things up.

    3 Easy Ways to Freshen Your Dog’s Breath (That They’ll Actually Enjoy)

    Here are a few tried-and-true products that can help reduce plaque, improve oral health, and make those puppy kisses much more pleasant:

    1. Bully Sticks

    Not just a tasty treat—bully sticks are great for your dog’s teeth. These all-natural chews help scrape away plaque as your dog gnaws, sort of like a toothbrush made of deliciousness. They’re also fully digestible, which makes them safer than some synthetic chews. Just be sure to supervise and choose the right size for your pup.

    2. Milk Bone Brushing Chews

    These clever little chews are shaped like a toothbrush for a reason. Milk Bone Brushing Chews are designed to clean like a brush and freshen like a mint. With daily use, they can help reduce tartar buildup and keep that doggy mouth a little less dragon-y. And dogs love the taste, so it feels like a treat, not a chore.

    Product Available on Amazon

    3. ProDen PlaqueOff

    This one’s a little different—it’s a powder made from seaweed that you sprinkle on your dog’s food. Sounds weird, right? But it works. ProDen PlaqueOff helps break down existing plaque and prevents new buildup by tackling it at the source: your dog’s saliva. It’s odorless, tasteless (to dogs, anyway), and super easy to add to their daily routine.

    Product Available on Amazon

    A Happier, Fresher-Mouthed Pup

    You don’t have to dread your dog’s kisses or avoid those close-up cuddles. With a few small changes—and some tasty additions to their day—you can help improve your pup’s oral health and keep their breath smelling a lot sweeter.

    So why not give one (or all!) of these options a try? Your nose—and your dog—will thank you.

    ***

    Please note, this article contains affiliate links, where I will receive compensation if you buy the product, without any extra cost to you.

    ***

    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. 

  • Should I Be Concerned About My Overweight Cat?

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    Though many people love to see cats that are a bit heavier than they should be, the truth is that even a few extra ounces can affect your cat’s health. Just like overweight people, they are more likely to have health problems.

    So, what kinds of problems are you looking at when it comes to overweight cats?

    Overweight cats are more likely to suffer from the following:

    • Diabetes
    • Pain in the joints, which can turn into Arthritis as your cat ages
    • Urinary tract infections
    • Skin problems since they can’t groom themselves as easily as they used to be able to.

    So, how can you tell if your cat is overweight?

    Here are some signs that your cat may be overweight.

    Your cat’s silhouette. 

    When your cat is standing still, he or she should have a waistline. His or her body should indent on the side instead of being straight or sticking out in the abdominal area. You also want to see the belly tucks up, instead of hanging to the ground.

    You can feel your cat’s ribs. 

    You will want to be able to feel your cat’s ribs easily. Though there may be a little padding, if there is a lot of padding (or you can’t feel the ribs at all), your cat needs to lose some weight.

    If your cat is overweight, he or she won’t be as active. 

    Though your cat may be slowing down as he or she ages, the truth is that your cat should have plenty of energy. You may also notice that your cat is unable to jump up the way that he or she used to. It may take your cat a few tries to get up on the furniture, or he or she may not be able to get up at all!

    So, what can you do to help your cat lose weight?

    Taking your cat to the veterinarian should be the first step in the weight loss process. Your veterinarian will help you determine what your cat should weigh, as well as rule out any problems that may be the reason why your cat weighs more than he or she should.

    Photo Courtesy of Canva

    If you want to learn more, you can check out my other article, Tips for Weight Loss in Dogs and Cats, about helping your pet to lose weight. If interested, you can check it out right here. 

    ***

    Please note, 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. 

  • Facts about Rabies You Should Know

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    Rabies is a zoonotic disease that every pet owner (and really every person) needs to know about. A zoonotic disease is one that can be passed from animal to person, which is a reason why we need to be careful around our own animals and those that roam the neighborhood (and farm).

    What animals can get rabies?

    • The most common animals to carry rabies are raccoons, skunks, bats, and foxes.
    • Humans are more likely to get rabies from an infected bat than any other animal.
    • Livestock can also become infected by rabies.
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    What are the signs of rabies?

    • Though most people assume that rabid animals are going to have erratic behavior, drool, and become aggressive, those aren’t the most common signs.
    • In fact, the signs of rabies are varied. Most commonly, animals may be acting quiet and depressed, though they also may act erratically.
    • Early signs are often just a change in behavior and temperament.

    How is rabies transmitted from one animal to another?

    Rabies is transmitted through the bite of an infected animal, through his or her saliva.

    The other animal or human will get rabies when the infected saliva gets into his or her system, though an open wound or fresh abrasion. It can also get in the mucous membranes or the eyes!

    What should you do if you are bitten by any animal (whether you are worried about rabies)?

    • Any bite wound should be washed out with plenty of soap and water.
    • If you were bitten by a dog or a cat, you need to ask the owner to make sure that the pet is up-to-date on his or her rabies vaccine.
    • You should seek medical attention if needed.
    • If the owner can’t provide rabies information (or it is wild), you need to talk to your doctor or go to the emergency room. You may need treatment for rabies, just in case.
    • If you have the wild animal that bit you or a bat that was in the house with you, you should get it tested for rabies.
    Photo Courtesy of Canva

    What should you do if your dog or cat was bitten?

    • Many times, we don’t see what has gotten our dog or cat. We simply see the bite wound.
    • However, if you do see what got your animal, and it is another dog or cat, you need to make sure that that dog or cat is up-to-date with his or her rabies vaccine.
    • If it is a wild animal, you need to euthanize it and test it for rabies.
    • Your own pet should get his or her rabies vaccine updated, as a precaution. If it is overdue, you definitely need to get the rabies vaccine done as soon as possible.
    • Then, you need to confine your dog or cat for a few months. This is to watch for any signs of rabies. You shouldn’t handle your dog or cat during this time, because you don’t want to have to worry about getting any saliva on you.
    • How long you have to quarantine your pet depends on several factors. Plus, the rules are always changing. While most pets will die within ten days of getting symptoms, it can take a few months to show those symptoms! Check with your veterinarian for the latest protocols.
    • If your dog or cat shows any signs of disease, you need to get him or her checked out right away. This doesn’t necessarily mean that your dog is going to get aggressive right away. You may notice that he or she simply doesn’t feel good. Your dog or cat may not be eating as well as normal.

    How can you protect your family (and pets)?

    If you want to protect your family, you need to start with your pets. You need to make sure that your pet has a rabies vaccine. In fact, many states require both dogs and cats to have an up-to-date rabies vaccine.

    You also want to use caution around wildlife. If an animal that is wondering outside looks sick, you need to stay away. Don’t let anyone in your family near it. Most likely, it will move on.

    Photo Courtesy of Canva

    Rabies is a serious disease and one that is very preventable! You can keep your family safe by vaccinating your pets and watching out for wildlife. However, if you or your pet gets bitten, you need to make sure that you get the medical attention that you need!

    ***

    Please note, this 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.

  • Make Coop Cleanup Fast And Easy with Omlet Eglu

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    Do you find yourself dreading coop-cleaning day, struggling with wood dust, poop-caked corners, or awkward nooks that are nearly impossible to clean? That weekly chore shouldn’t feel like a battle, especially when all you want is healthy, happy hens without the headache.

    How the Omlet Chicken Coop Makes a Difference

    The Omlet Eglu (or Pro model) is built with smooth, sturdy plastic panels that break down easily and rinse clean in mere minutes. Forget scraping wood or battling bacteria hiding in cracks—the coop’s design avoids nooks where pests or parasites might lurk.

    With a pull‑out droppings tray and stackable nest box, maintenance becomes simple and hygienic. The insulated, predator-resistant build helps keep your flock safe and comfortable all year round.

    Users consistently praise how nearly odor-free their coop stays, plus the plastic design naturally discourages pests over time

    Time for a Coop Upgrade?

    If cleaning your wooden coop has become a dreaded chore, the Omlet Chicken Coop offers a clean, low-maintenance solution, with better hygiene and more time to enjoy your birds. Start with the standard Cube if you have fewer hens, or opt for the larger Pro for expanded capacity. Pick the model that suits your flock, and spend time collecting fresh eggs—without missing your weekends to scrubbing.

    Wrapping It Up

    In short, the Omlet Chicken Coop tackles the messy, back‑breaking chore of coop cleaning with sleek, removable trays and smooth plastic construction that pressure wash in minutes—no more scrubbing wood or crawling into corners.

    Photo Courtesy of Canva

    Plus, its insulated, predator‑proof design means fewer worries and healthier hens. Choose the model that fits your flock—standard Cube for a few birds or larger Pro if you plan to grow—and get back to what matters most: spending quality time with your cozy, contented flock.

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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.

    ***

    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. 

  • Tips for Weight Loss in Dogs and Cats

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    The truth is that most pets weigh more than they should. As they age, they aren’t as active. Not only that, but their metabolism drops, so they don’t need as much food as you might think. For this reason, many pets could stand to lose a few pounds.

    That being said, it isn’t as easy as it sounds. However, it shouldn’t be. Here are some tips to help your pet lose weight.

    Allowing food to be available at all times isn’t the best way to feed pets. 

    Most people fill their pet’s food bowl as needed. Whenever it is empty, they will refill it, even if they do this multiple times a day. Your pet could be eating way more than he or she should!

    In fact, you need to feed for your pet’s ideal weight, not his or her current weight. 

    The bag of food will give you an idea of how much food your dog or cat needs to eat. You should feed your dog or cat according to its ideal weight. If your dog is forty pounds but should weigh thirty, feed the amount that a thirty-pound dog needs.

    That being said, you should feed your dog or cat according to its shape and not the amount on the bag. 

    Photo Courtesy of Canva

    If you cut back on the amount of food you are feeding, it may not reach them where needed. He or she may need less than the bag says, so cut back for a few weeks. If you aren’t getting the results you want, consider cutting back even further.

    Pate-style canned food is often the best food for cats. 

    Dry food is filled with carbohydrates, which can cause cats to gain weight instead of lose it. A good pate-style canned food has fewer carbohydrates, which will help with weight loss.

    Providing your cat with canned food will also help increase its water intake. Most cats don’t drink enough, so supplementing with canned food is a big help. If your cat tolerates it, you can even add some extra water to their food.

    My veterinarian recommends Friskie’s pate-style canned food like the one listed on Amazon below.

    Product available on Amazon

    A regular-sized cat should only need one 5.5-ounce can of food a day. 

    Though he or she may beg for more, you don’t need to give your cat more than one can of food a day.

    Treats can be a significant problem when it comes to overfeeding. 

    Though you may be only feeding your dog one cup of food a day, you can’t forget about treats. Many dogs (and cats) receive more treats than they need. These are also filled with carbohydrates, which is why they are so good!

    Instead of treats, you may want to try animal crackers for your dog. If he or she likes vegetables, you can also give him or her those. Carrots make great snacks for dogs!

    It is important to remember that your dog or cat isn’t begging for food. 

    Photo Courtesy of Canva

    Instead, he or she is begging for your attention. Instead of reaching for a treat, you could easily get down on his or her level and pet your dog or cat.

    Make exercise an essential part of your pet’s life. 

    With dogs, you can start taking them out on daily walks. Not only will this be good for his or her weight, but it may also help you reach your own health goals! Go outside and throw the ball. You can even throw the ball down the stairs in the winter when it is too cold to go outside.

    Cats can be a little more complicated. You may want to get a laser pointer and get them to run after that. Some will play ball a little bit. Any extra exercise that you get with your cat will be beneficial.

    Amazon and Chewy have a lot of cat toys to keep your cat as active and playful as possible.

    Product Available on Amazon

    Even though you may not see a problem with your dog or cat’s weight, the truth is that it is shortening your pet’s life. Even losing a few pounds can help decrease your pet’s chance of getting diabetes and respiratory disease. If your pet develops arthritis, he or she will be able to get around more easily with a few fewer pounds.

    ***

    Please note, this article contains affiliate links, where I will receive compensation if you buy the product, without any extra cost to you.

    ***

    It is also 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. 

  • Dental Care In Animals

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    Unfortunately, the truth is that over eighty percent of pets over the age of three struggle with some form of dental disease. And to make matters worse, this disease is entirely preventable! That being said, the best way to ensure your pets have healthy teeth and gums is to know and understand as much as possible about the disease.

    The first thing that all owners need to know is what signs they need to look out for. These signs will alert owners to the need for immediate veterinary attention for their pet.

    The common signs of dental disease include:

    Bad breath. 

    You may no longer want to get too close to your pet because of his or her breath.

    Pawing and rubbing at the mouth. 

    This is often due to the pain and discomfort your pet may be experiencing.

    Red and swollen gums. 

    You may also notice that your pet’s gums are really red. They may be so red that his or her gums are swollen.

    Not eating as well. 

    Your pet may not be able to eat because his or her mouth is sore.

    Doesn’t want to play with hard toys. 

    He or she may also avoid playing with hard toys or chewing on rawhide chews due to a sore mouth.

    Photo Courtesy of Canva

    If you notice any of these signs, consider consulting your veterinarian for a thorough dental examination. He or she will check for:

    • Pain
    • Bad breath
    • Drooling
    • Trouble swallowing
    • Changes in teeth. We look for signs of teeth resorption, missing teeth, fractured teeth, and other dental issues.
    • Inflammation
    • Bleeding

    That being said, many pet owners are unaware of the importance of good dental care. Even if they notice the signs of disease, they may not take any action about it. However, that could be a mistake.

    Good dental care is so essential for many reasons. If left untreated, dental disease can do the following:

    Weight loss. 

    Struggle to eat enough to get the nutrition that your pet needs.

    Pain and inflammation. 

    Dental disease can really affect your pet’s overall health and wellness.

    Resorptive lesions. 

    These lesions are quite painful and are found in twenty-eight percent of cats.

    Lost teeth. 

    Gingivitis and tartar can build up and cause your pet’s teeth to get loose and fall out.

    Damage to your pet’s vital organs. 

    Bacteria can enter the bloodstream and cause damage to your pet’s heart, kidneys, and liver.

    As per the AHAA guidelines, “dental care is necessary to provide optimum health and optimize the quality of life.”

    So, what can you do at home for your pet’s dental care? Here are some things that you can do now to improve the health of your pet’s mouth.

    Photo Courtesy of Canva

    Brush your pet’s teeth at home regularly. 

    Although it is best to do it daily, if you can do it several times a week, you will still notice a difference.

    Use special treats and chew toys to help maintain good oral care. 

    There are many treats and chew toys out there to help your pet maintain good oral care.

    Our clients have had great success with these chews. They are available on Amazon and Chewy.

    Product Available on Amazon and Chewy.

    If your dog is a chewer, you may also want to consider trying Bully Sticks. Bully sticks are a great alternative to rawhide chews. 

    If your dog is not a chewer, you may want to try this food additive. We have seen many dogs’ mouths look significantly better after using this product. 

    They are available on Amazon and Chewy.

    Product Available on Amazon and Chewy.

    Visit your veterinarian regularly to ensure your pet’s oral health is optimal. 

    Your pet should be examined at least once a year to ensure its mouth is healthy.

    Photo Courtesy of Canva

    If you notice signs of dental disease, take note. You should schedule an examination with your veterinarian as soon as you can. You may be able to do better with your home care, though your pet may need a dental. Once they are professionally cleaned, all you have to do is maintain them that way.

    ***

    Please note, this article contains affiliate links, where I will receive compensation if you buy the product, without any extra cost to you.

    ***

    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. 

  • Vet Techs: Earn CE on the Go with VETgirl’s Flexible Courses

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    Ever feel stuck hunting for RACE‑approved CE that fits around your shifts, family life, or study schedule? As a busy vet tech, the struggle of juggling hands‑on work and license requirements is all too real. That’s exactly why I’ve grown to love VETgirl CE—this platform delivers top-quality continuing education you can access anytime, anywhere.

    Why It Works for Vet Techs Like Us

    VETgirl offers a robust library of RACE-accredited courses, including live webinars, on-demand videos, podcasts, and blog-based quizzes—all tailored for vet techs and vets alike. Whether you’re commuting, grabbing a coffee, or sneaking in an educational break between patients, it fits seamlessly into your routine.

    From clinical deep-dives in anesthesia, dermatology, and critical care to leadership and practice management tracks, their content covers real challenges we face daily. There’s also a certificate program offering 12–60 hours of credit, included with membership, perfect for techs who want to dive deeper into specific areas.

    Insider Praise: Real Techs, Real Feedback

    People rave about how practical and engaging the courses are. Techs describe VETgirl as “clinical CE that actually works with our time constraints” and appreciate how each session offers tangible takeaways for better patient care. The mix of formats—podcasts, webinars, quick blog posts—makes earning credits feel doable, even on the toughest days.

    Fit It Into Your Learning Style

    • Prefer listening? Download a podcast while walking or commuting.
    • Want interaction? Join live webinars and earn CE in real time.
    • Short on time? On-demand videos and blog quizzes let you earn credits in minutes.

    Why I Recommend It

    It’s vet tech–focused, affordable, and clinically relevant—no fluff, just useful knowledge from experts in a format that respects your schedule. Whether your local hospital limits in-person CE or you simply want a flexible option you can access anytime, VETgirl keeps your learning going without burnout.

    Ready to earn CE that actually fits your life?
    Take a peek at VETgirl’s ELITE membership—choose the plan that suits your pace, start with a free or trial webinar if they offer one, and see how it strengthens your confidence and skills on the floor.

    Looking to join the community? Check out my affiliate link to help support my own journey of learning. Even better, you get ten percent off for your first year!  

    ***

    Please note, this article contains affiliate links, where I will receive compensation if you buy the product, without any extra cost to you.

    ***

    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. 

  • Why Walking is Good for Your Dog’s Health

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    Whether the sun is out or you will have to bundle up to face the wind and cold weather, the truth is that walking your dog can be very good for the two of you. Even though there are going to be days when you would prefer to stay inside in front of the television, the truth is that you should find time every day to get some fresh air with your dog.

    There are so many incredible benefits to walking your dog. Here are some reasons why you should grab a leash and take a trip around the block.

    Walking is a good cardiovascular exercise that is relatively safe.

    Whether you are in shape or your goal is to get back into shape, walking is a great way to get and stay healthy. It can help you (and your dog) lose weight and stay fit. Before you decide to take the day off, consider your health and fitness goals. You may decide to do a loop around the block for you and your dog’s health!

    Walking provides both mental and physical stimulation for your dog.

    Some dogs, especially those that spend most of their time indoors, need to exercise both their body and their mind. A walk outside will help them discover new places and things. They may meet other people, dogs, and animals.

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    They will see places that they wouldn’t otherwise see if they stayed in their yard. This is especially true if you take your dog to parks and other places to get your daily exercise.

    Walking helps dogs become accustomed to various vehicles, including cars, trucks, and bikes, as well as other everyday objects.

    As you and your dog are out and about, you will introduce him or her to new things. This can include cars, trucks, bikes, and much more. Though you want your dog to get used to them, you also want to make sure that your dog learns to be wary of them. As your dog learns about these dangers, you should also teach them how you want them to handle them. You may want to teach your dog to sit on the side of the road when a truck goes by.

    Walking allows you to spend quality time with your dog.

    In our busy lives, it can be challenging to find time to spend quality time with those we love, including our dogs. By making your walks together a priority, you ensure that you spend meaningful time together. This will help both of you feel loved and appreciated.

    Knowing that you have to take your dog for a walk should be enough motivation to do it.

    The simple truth is that, no matter how much you want to exercise, it is really easy to find excuses not to. It’s really easy to get distracted by your phone or the television and realize that an hour or two has passed. However, when you have a dog that relies on your daily (or multiple times a day) walks, you can’t tell them no. You find the time to get outside. This is beneficial for both your health and your dog’s health.

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    Walking your dog is essential for good health. Not only will it help you get in shape, but it will also aid your dog in shedding excess weight.

    Even better, having a dog will not allow you to find excuses for not exercising. You need to make time to get out of the house and go for a walk. It is also essential for your relationship with your dog. It will give you plenty of quality time together.

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    Please 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.