Welcome

Category: Dog Tips

  • What You Need to Know About Intestinal Worms

    Photo Courtesy of Canva

    When you hear the word intestinal parasites or even worms, you may be feeling a bit squeamish. However, it is important to know and understand them a little more, especially if you have pets (and children). Your dog or cat can get worms, which may be passed onto you and your family.

    So, how can my pet get intestinal parasites?

    Getting intestinal parasites is easier than you think. Your dog or cat needs to come into contact with these parasites, and then they will have them. They can do this in several ways, including:

    • Swallowing fleas while they are grooming themselves.
    • Ingesting water or soil that has been contaminated with the worms (or even feces that had the worms in it).
    • Eating prey that has intestinal parasites.
    • Swallowing the eggs of these parasites that were brought into the home by you and your other pets.

    What are some signs that your dog or cat may be exhibiting if he or she has intestinal parasites?

    • Vomiting and diarrhea, with or without blood
    • Blood loss
    • Malnutrition
    • Weight loss
    • And even death!

    What can you do to prevent intestinal parasites?

    So, what can you do to keep your pets and family safe? Here are some things that you should do on a regular basis.

    Photo Courtesy of Canva

    You should deworm all new puppies and kittens. 

    Puppies and kittens are born with worms, so it is important to make sure that you deworm them multiple times when they are young.

    You should do the same with any new pets that you get. 

    If you don’t know the history of your new pet, you should deworm him or her a few times to make sure that your pet is worm free.

    It also helps to deworm your pets regularly. 

    Any dogs that spend time outside should be dewormed regularly. Cats who hunt are also at risk, so you should be deworming them multiple times a year.

    You also need to practice good hygiene. 

    You should always wash your hands after playing with your animals, as well as whenever you come inside.

    Not only that, but you can also do this by cleaning up your dog’s stool regularly. 

    If you pick up after your dog when he or she goes to the bathroom, even if there are worms, it is less likely to transfer into the ground where your dog or cat could get reinfected.

    There are many different options for pooper scoopers on the market. Check out this one that is available on Amazon, which also comes with baggies to help you clean up after your dog.

    Product Available on Amazon

    You should also watch your children. 

    You shouldn’t allow them to play where your dogs and cats go to the bathroom. If you have a lot of wildlife around, keep your children away from areas where they spend a lot of time.

    Whether you have cats or not, you should always cover up your children’s sandboxes. 

    These are often seen as litter boxes for any cat. By covering them up, they are less likely to be touching areas where any cats had defecated.

    You should also make sure that everyone wears shoes. 

    Though you may love to walk around barefoot, you should always wear shoes outside. You never know what ground could be contaminated with worms.

    That being said, you should also avoid sitting and lying on the ground. 

    You should always bring a blanket or chair to sit in to avoid sitting directly on the contaminated soil.

    It is also important that you don’t drink water from streams or other contaminated water sources. 

    You should carry bottled water with you, wherever you go so that you don’t have to even think about drinking water that could carry worms in it.

    If you have pets, you need to keep them on flea and tick prevention all year round. 

    Fleas are known to carry tapeworms, so the best way to avoid that is by treating your pets all year round.

    Photo Courtesy of Canva

    Let’s face it. Intestinal parasites and worms are gross. For this reason, you should always deworm any new puppies and kittens. You also should deworm any new to you pets. If your cat is a hunter, you should deworm them routinely, so that your family is safe.

    You also need to think about what you and your family do. You shouldn’t let your children play in the dirt where infected feces may be. Cover up the sandbox since it looks like a giant litter box to cats. You also need to make sure that everyone washes their hands regularly and wears shoes.

    ***

    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. 

  • The Treat That Helps Clean Your Dog’s Teeth Daily

    Photo Courtesy of Canva

    Let’s be honest—brushing your dog’s teeth can feel like a full-contact sport. If you’ve ever tried wrangling your pup for a toothbrushing session, you know the struggle is real. Most dogs aren’t exactly thrilled by the idea of someone sticking a brush in their mouth, and for many pet parents, it just doesn’t happen as often as it should.

    But skipping dental care can lead to more than just stinky breath. Plaque and tartar buildup can cause gum disease, tooth decay, and even affect your dog’s overall health. Thankfully, there’s an easier, way-more-fun option that helps clean your dog’s teeth without the daily wrestling match.

    Enter Milk-Bone Brushing Chews—a total game changer for low-stress dental care.

    Product Available on Amazon

    These treats are specially designed with unique ridges and nubs that help scrub your dog’s teeth as they chew. They’re shaped to clean like a toothbrush, reaching those tricky back teeth and helping reduce plaque and tartar buildup over time. And the best part? Your dog thinks they’re just getting a tasty treat.

    Each chew is fortified with calcium and other nutrients that support strong teeth and bones. They’re also vet-recommended, which always feels reassuring when you’re trying to balance convenience with effectiveness. Whether your dog’s breath has been a little “off” lately, or you just want a simple way to stay ahead of dental problems, adding a Brushing Chew to their daily routine is a no-brainer.

    They come in multiple sizes (small, medium, large), so you can get the right fit for your pup’s chew style. Most dogs absolutely love the flavor, and since they’re designed to be given once a day, it’s an easy habit to stick to. Think of it like brushing their teeth—only it’s disguised as treat time.

    So if toothbrushing feels like a chore neither of you enjoy, swap in something your dog actually looks forward to. One Milk-Bone Brushing Chew a day can help you stay on top of their dental health, without turning it into a battle.

    ***

    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. 

  •  Disposable Pee Pads vs. Washable Ones: Which Saves More Time (and Money)?

    Photo Courtesy of Canva

    If you’re potty training a new puppy, caring for a senior pet, or managing life with an indoor-only dog, pee pads are probably already part of your daily routine. But at some point, you’ve likely asked yourself: Should I stick with disposable pads, or try the washable kind? Both have their perks—and their downsides—and which one works best really comes down to your lifestyle, your dog’s habits, and how much laundry you’re willing to do.

    Disposable pee pads are definitely the most convenient option. You just lay one down, toss it when it’s used, and grab another. No scrubbing, no washing, no waiting for the dryer to finish. They’re great for quick cleanup, perfect for travel or crates, and ideal for pet parents who don’t want to deal with extra laundry. But here’s the tradeoff: over time, constantly buying new pads adds up—and they’re not exactly eco-friendly, especially if you’re using several a day.

    Product Available on Amazon

    Washable pee pads, on the other hand, are reusable and more environmentally conscious. Most come in multi-packs, so while one’s in the wash, another is ready to go. They’re usually larger and more absorbent than disposables, which can be great for larger breeds or overnight use. The downside? You’ll need to rinse or wash them regularly (and let’s be real—no one loves washing pee pads). Still, if your dog uses them consistently in the same spot, and you’ve got a laundry routine down, they can save you quite a bit of money in the long run.

    Product Available on Amazon

    So which one’s better? If you want quick, hassle-free cleanup with no laundry involved—especially during the early stages of training—disposable pee pads are probably your best friend. But if your dog is on a more predictable potty schedule, or you’re in it for the long haul, washable pads could save you money and reduce waste.

    Still can’t decide? Try starting with both—use disposables when life gets hectic, and keep a few washable ones for regular use. It doesn’t have to be all or nothing, and your future self (and your floors) 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. 

  • Zoonotic Diseases: Diseases That Can Be Passed Between Animals and People

    Photo Courtesy of Canva

    Zoonotic diseases are diseases that can be passed from animals to people (and back and forth). The most common one is Rabies, though we don’t see that disease much anymore, which is a good thing.

    However, many other diseases can be passed from one to another. Some that you need to know about include:

    Rabies. 

    This is a life-threatening disease that can be passed from many different animals to people. Unfortunately, most people who get rabies and don’t get treated right away end up dying. For this reason, it is important to keep your pets vaccinated for this preventable disease. In many states, it is legally required.

    Leptospirosis. 

    Though this disease isn’t prevalent, it has become more common over the past few years. Leptospirosis is caused by a bacterium and is passed through the urine of infected animals. It is passed by wildlife and through both running and standing water, where infected wildlife pass by. It can cause liver and kidney failure in all animals and humans.

    Intestinal parasites. 

    Dogs and cats can pass any worms onto a human, especially those who handle them regularly. They can pass roundworms, hookworms, and even tapeworms through their stools. It is more common in children, older people, and those who are immunodeficient.

    Giardia infection. 

    Like intestinal parasites, Giardia is passed through feces. It is an organism that comes from infected water. It can also live in the soil and feces after ingestion. Not only that, but it causes digestive problems, including diarrhea.

    Lyme disease. 

    Lyme disease can be quite severe in both humans and dogs. A tick bite passes it and can affect someone for years. Some of the most common signs include fever, pain, and joint inflammation. If left untreated, it can start to affect vital organs like your kidneys and heart.

    Scabies and other mites. 

    Our dogs and cats who are outside can pick up scabies and other mites, and then pass them on to the humans who want to cuddle up with them. This can be pretty itchy and irritating to the skin of anyone who comes in contact with the mites.

    Because you aren’t going to want to worry about your children and your pets with these diseases, you have to do a few things to protect everyone.

    Clean up your dog’s stool in the yard. 

    Not only is it disgusting to walk through a yard full of poop, but it can also be unhealthy. The longer that the stools stay in the yard, the more likely it is that the intestinal parasites can move into the ground and continue to infect your pets repeatedly.

    Please wash your hands after handling your animals and their stools. 

    Good hygiene is essential to keep everyone as healthy as possible. So, make sure that you wash your hands often when you are handling your pets. You also need to wash your hands after you clean out the yard and the litter pan

    Photo Courtesy of Canva

    Wear gloves when working outside in the dirt. 

    Since the soil can be infected by stool, you shouldn’t garden or work in the dirt without gloves. Even when wearing them, you should wash your hands after you are finished. You could pick something up from a stray animal that wanders through your yard.

    Vaccinate your pet. 

    You should vaccinate your dog and cat to protect them. However, if he or she has a Leptospirosis and a Rabies vaccine, you are less likely to get the disease.

    You also want to keep them on preventatives. 

    Your dogs and cats should be on flea and tick protection to help keep fleas and ticks out of your home (and on you). These preventatives can also help with mites. You should also deworm your pets routinely to ensure that they don’t get any intestinal parasites that they could pass on to you.

    Photo Courtesy of Canva

    Though zoonotic diseases can be scary, they don’t have to be. You can easily keep your pet (and your family) safe, just with a few easy things. You should always wash your hands and wear gloves when handling dirt and stool. Likewise, you should also make sure that your dogs and cats are vaccinated against the diseases that can easily be prevented.

    ***

    Please note 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.

  • Basic Rope Toy vs. Rubber Chew Toy: Which Holds Up Better for Tough Chewers?

    Photo Courtesy of Canva

    If you’ve got a high-energy pup who treats toys like a personal challenge, you’ve probably wondered which is the better buy: a classic rope toy or one of those heavy-duty rubber chew toys. They both show up on every “best dog toys” list, they’re both affordable, and they both claim to survive tough chewers—but in my experience, they serve slightly different purposes. Knowing what your dog really needs can help you avoid yet another shredded toy in the trash.

    Rope toys are great for dogs who love interactive play. Think tug-of-war, fetch, or just zooming around the house with something dangling from their mouth. They’re lightweight, inexpensive, and often come in multipacks, so they’re easy to replace when they eventually fray.

    Product Available on Amazon

    Plus, the texture of the rope can be kind of floss-like, helping to clean teeth a bit while your dog chomps. But here’s the catch: most rope toys aren’t made to last if your dog is a determined chewer. If your pup likes to lie down and gnaw until there’s nothing left, you might end up with stringy bits all over the floor—and a rope that lasted all of ten minutes.

    Rubber chew toys, especially the thick, solid ones made for “aggressive chewers,” are a totally different story. They’re usually heavier, a bit more expensive, and not as much fun to tug or fetch—but they shine when it comes to durability.

    These are the toys your dog can gnaw on for hours without destroying (as long as you pick the right size and hardness for your dog). Even better, many are hollow or have treat-holding spaces, which adds a layer of mental stimulation that rope toys don’t usually offer.

    Product Available on Amazon

    So, which is better? If your dog’s more into playing than chewing—and you’re okay tossing the rope when it starts to wear—a basic rope toy is a solid, budget-friendly pick. But if your dog is a destroyer with jaws of steel, and you’re looking for something that can actually last longer than a few days, a rubber chew toy is probably your best bet.

    Still unsure? Try one of each—they’re both affordable enough that you can test and see what your dog really loves. And hey, at least one of them might survive the week!

    ***

    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.

  • How I Keep My Dog Safe (and Sane) in the Car

    Photo Courtesy of Canva

    Taking your dog for a ride sounds fun—until they’re climbing into the front seat, trying to hang out the window, or sliding across the backseat every time you hit the brakes. Been there. As much as I love bringing my dog along for errands or adventures, I used to stress the whole drive wondering if she was actually safe.

    Luckily, there are a few simple things that make a huge difference when it comes to car rides with dogs—both for safety and sanity.

    A Crash-Tested Harness
     If you don’t want a crate in the car, a good harness that connects to the seatbelt is a great option. It keeps your dog from roaming or flying forward in case of a quick stop, and most dogs settle into it pretty quickly once they realize it means car ride!

    Product Available on Amazon

    Seatbelt Clip or Tether
     These are basically short leashes that clip into your car’s seatbelt slot and attach to your dog’s harness (not their collar!). They’re super affordable and easy to move between vehicles—perfect for quick trips or carpool dogs.

    Product Available on Amazon

    A Travel Crate
     If your pup is already crate-trained, this might be the most secure and stress-free option. Crates keep your dog contained, reduce motion sickness, and help with anxious riders who like their own little den. Just make sure it’s the right size and properly anchored.

    Product Available on Amazon

    Car Barriers or Backseat Hammocks

    Product Available on Amazon

    For bigger dogs or longer trips, a backseat hammock or barrier keeps your pup from hopping into the front and also protects your seats from fur, drool, and muddy paws. Hammocks also create a sort of “nest” in the backseat that feels cozier for the dog.

    Product Available on Amazon

    No matter what setup you choose, the goal’s the same: keep your dog safe, comfortable, and not in your lap while driving. Trust me, once you find the right combo, car rides get way less stressful—for both of 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. 

  • Puppy Tips: Tips to Have a Well-Behaved Dog

    Photo Courtesy of Canva

    Getting a puppy can be an exciting time for most people. They can’t wait to add a fur ball to their life. They think of all the fun and love that a new puppy can bring into their lives.

    That being said, it can also be stressful. Puppies can’t be left alone because they can get into such trouble in a short period of time. They need to learn what they can and can’t do. Potty training can be pretty overwhelming for everyone involved (including the puppy).

    Struggling with your puppy? Here are some tips to help you raise a good dog.

    When you first get your puppy, you don’t want to overwhelm him or her. 

    Give your new puppy time to get used to you and your family, as well as his or her new home. Though socializing is essential, you don’t need to have everyone come over and visit right away. You also don’t want to take him or her to the dog park or pet stores until he or she is fully protected with vaccines. Then, do it slowly.

    If your pet looks overwhelmed or uncomfortable, it is time to go back home. Don’t push, or you may not be happy with your puppy’s behavior. They may become anxious in new situations and may lash out when feeling this way.

    It helps to get into a routine. 

    You should put your puppy to bed at the same time every day, and get him or her up at a regular time. If you feed your puppy at the same time every day, he or she will end up going to the bathroom at regular intervals, which will help immensely when it comes to potty training.

    With potty training, you need to listen to your puppy. 

    You may want to keep your puppy on a short leash so that you can watch them closely. This will also keep them from sneaking off to go to the bathroom in the house.

    It also helps to take your pet to the same spot outside, so that he or she knows that is where it is safe to go to the bathroom. If you take your puppy out and nothing happens, put them in the crate and try again in a few minutes.

    You need to get your puppy used to going to the veterinarian. 

    Puppies who go to the vets regularly aren’t scared of them. It may even help to take them a few times when they don’t have an appointment, to get them used to walking in the building and meeting the staff and other animals. If they learn early that the vet can be a good place where they get treats, they will be less likely to get scared as they get older.

    Photo Courtesy of Canva

    Make sure that you get them used to being handled. 

    Sometimes, the vet isn’t the problem. It may be the restraint, or your puppy may not like his or her feet touched. You should touch their feet regularly, along with their ears, and all over their body, so that you will be able to do this easily when they get older.

    When you are playing with your new puppy, you need to consider what you are teaching them carefully. 

    It might be cute when your five-pound puppy jumps up at you, but once he or she is full-sized, you may get hurt by this action.

    The same goes for play biting. You don’t want to teach your puppy that it is ok for him or her to bite you. You could seriously get injured when he or she is one hundred pounds!

    Photo Courtesy of Canva

    Getting a puppy can really change your home, though once you get him or her settled into a routine, you will just be able to enjoy your new bundle of joy. This is also the time to socialize your puppy. Make sure that going to the vet is a good thing, even if you take your new puppy to hang out and visit at the vet. You also want to get them used to being handled, including their ears and feet.

    ***

    Please note 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. 

  • Tips to Keep Your Pets Safe in the Snow

    Photo Courtesy of Canva

    As the forecast changes regularly, bringing with it more cold and winter weather, it is important to ensure everyone’s safety. This includes yourself, your family, and your pets! Everyone deserves to be warm and comfortable, no matter the weather. 

    Here are some tips to keep your pets safe in the snow. 

    Keep your pets inside as much as possible. 

    Just like you don’t want to be outside, your pets won’t want to be, either. Keep them inside except to use the bathroom and maybe play for a few minutes. Don’t overdo it.

    You may want to get a coat or sweater for your pet. 

    If your pet has really short hair and shivers as soon as he or she goes outside, you may want to bundle him or her up in a coat or sweater.

    Amazon has a lot of coats, like this one, that would keep your beloved dog warm all winter long!

    Product Available on Amazon

    Dog boots can also be helpful. 

    Not only can the snow be harsh on your dog’s feet, but salt and other chemicals that are used to melt ice and snow can be hard on them, too! You should wipe your dog’s feet off as soon as they come in. Another option is to buy dog boots.

    Amazon has a lot of dog booties, like these, that would keep your beloved dog’s feet warm all winter long!

    Product Available on Amazon

    If you have outdoor dogs and cats, make sure that they have shelter. 

    They are going to need a dry place to hide from the weather, so make sure that they have a dry, draft-free shelter to spend time in. It is even better if the house is big enough for them to move around in, yet small enough to keep the heat in!

    Make sure that your pets have enough food and water to stay warm in the cold weather. 

    Your outside pets may need some extra food to help them get through the winter. Water is also important, so make sure that you change the water regularly so they get enough fresh water that is not frozen.

    Antifreeze can kill animals. 

    If you notice that your car is leaking anything, get it taken care of right away.

    You also need to check your vehicles before leaving. Many cats and small animals will seek the warmth of your car. You could easily start your car, drive away, and kill the animal before you get too far!

    Photo Courtesy of Canva

    Just like you get cold when you go outside, your pets do too. They don’t want to be out in the weather any more than you do. For this reason, you need to keep your outside time limited. You may want to buy a sweater and boots to keep your pets safe when they are outside. For animals that live outside, make sure that they have a draft-free shelter and plenty of food and water!

    ***

    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. 

  • Why Should I Get a Puppy As a Gift For Christmas? Why Shouldn’t I?

    Photo Courtesy of Canva

    There is nothing more exciting than getting a puppy for Christmas. They make great gifts, but only if you and your whole family are ready. I should know. When I was a kid, I remember coming out on Christmas morning, only to hear a noisy box that we just had to open first!

    Because this isn’t always the best idea, I thought that I would ask my other veterinary technician friends to see what their thoughts were on the subject, and as you can imagine, there were not many reasons why it is a good idea, but there are plenty of reasons why you should hold off.

    Here are some reasons why you may want to give a puppy as a gift for Christmas.

    If you and your family are ready for a puppy, this can be a great surprise. 

    As I mentioned above, I will never forget the Christmas when we got a puppy when I was a kid.

    It can also be a romantic and thoughtful gift from someone you love.

    The memories will last a lifetime!

    Here are some reasons why you should not give a puppy as a gift for Christmas.

    Many puppy mills and backyard breeders bank on people buying puppies for Christmas. 

    When you choose to buy a puppy right around the holidays, you are just supporting their businesses. They will continue breeding as much as possible, in order to supply puppies for Christmas and all throughout the year, without any thought for the parents.

    Money is often tight during the holidays, so your budget may not be able to afford a puppy. 

    Puppies need to go to the veterinarian every three to four weeks until they are sixteen weeks old to receive full vaccinations. They also need to be dewormed. Flea, tick, and heartworm prevention also costs money. If the cost of the puppy is too much, you need to think about all the other costs associated with a puppy.

    What if there is an emergency? 

    Puppies also like to eat things. Christmas morning is often a mess of wrapping paper, tissue paper, and new toys. There are plenty of things that a puppy can eat that they shouldn’t.

    Not to mention all the extra food that is available during the holidays. Puppies and dogs can’t handle a lot of the food that could be dropped during holiday meals. This can lead to expensive emergency visits.

    If you are having a party, you may have a lot of people coming and going. 

    Your puppy (who doesn’t really know where home is yet) could get out and run away. You may never find your precious puppy again. Even worse, your puppy could be hit by a car.

    The holidays are also one of the top reasons for dog bites. 

    With lots of people in and out of your home, along with strange dogs, your new puppy may be very overwhelmed. He or she could bite (or get bitten by another dog) in the confusion of the holidays.

    Because of the confusion of the holidays, routines go out the window. 

    Photo Courtesy of Canva

    New puppies thrive on routines in order to settle in. They need to know when they should eat, when they should go to bed, and when it is playtime. Not to mention potty training. It can be tough to potty-train a puppy that doesn’t eat at the same time every day!

    Even worse, you may have the puppy for a month or so until things settle down, and you can get into a routine. This is really important time for a puppy to adjust to his or her new home.

    Your children may go to school bragging about how Santa brought them a puppy. 

    Other children may not understand why they can’t get one from Santa! If your children still believe in Santa, it can be hard to explain why one family gets a puppy from Santa when all they got were a few small things!

    Because of this, too many puppies and dogs find themselves in shelters right after the holidays. 

    If you ask anyone who works in a shelter, they will tell you that shelters fill up right after the holidays because of inadequate planning. Whether you bought someone a dog that didn’t fit their lifestyle or they simply didn’t really want a puppy, many puppies and dogs find themselves homeless after the fun of a new puppy wears off!

    So, what can you do if you want to give someone a puppy for the holidays?

    Another veterinary technician recommended getting a gift certificate to a shelter so that your loved one can choose the perfect pet for their lifestyle.

    Too many people buy puppies or dogs without considering their lifestyle. Though the puppy may be cute, your loved one may not have the energy that a herding dog needs. He or she may be better off getting a lap puppy! They may not want a long-haired dog that requires daily brushing. They may not have the money for the groomer every six to eight weeks.

    He or she could even wait until things settle down after the holidays, when it would be a better time to get a new puppy or dog. There might even be more of a selection as Christmas gifts end up in the shelter!

    By allowing him or her to pick out his or her new dog, which is just what the family needs, the gift will continue to be a blessing instead of becoming a hassle that the person was not ready for.

    ***

    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. 

  • Tired of Dog Breath? Try This Simple Powder That Works

    Photo Courtesy of Canva

    If you’ve ever leaned in for a doggy kiss only to be hit with a wave of truly awful breath, you’re not alone. Dog breath is one of those small-but-annoying problems that nearly every pet parent deals with at some point. Even if your dog’s mouth is healthy, plaque and tartar buildup can cause seriously stinky breath over time.

    And while we all know that we should be brushing our dogs’ teeth every day, hardly anyone is doing that. Most of us either forget or don’t make it a habit. Others can’t, because their dog is simply too wiggly. So, what can you do if you want fresher breath without the daily toothbrush battle?

    That’s where Proden PlaqueOff Powder for Dogs really shines.

    Product Available on Amazon

    This easy-to-use dental supplement is made from natural seaweed and works from the inside out. You simply sprinkle it onto your dog’s food once a day—and that’s it. No chasing your dog around with a toothbrush, no flavored gels, and no struggling with finger brushes. It helps reduce plaque and tartar buildup over time and tackles bad breath right at the source.

    What’s especially nice is that Proden PlaqueOff doesn’t just mask odors—it supports better dental health overall. As your dog eats, the seaweed ingredients help soften plaque so it’s easier to break down naturally through chewing or regular eating. Most dogs don’t even notice it’s there, so you can feel good knowing you’re giving them something that’s both helpful and stress-free.

    Of course, every dog is different, and results can take a few weeks to kick in. But plenty of pet parents (and their noses!) swear by it as a gentle, effective way to keep dog breath in check—especially when brushing just isn’t happening.

    So if you’re dodging kisses or gagging during cuddle time, it might be time to give Proden PlaqueOff a try. Your dog gets healthier teeth and gums—and you get back to enjoying close-up snuggles without holding your breath.

    We have seen many patients in our practice who come in with less tartar after starting this food additive. It really helps!

    ***

    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.