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Category: Dog Tips

  • Avoiding Pet Emergencies Over the Holidays

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    The holidays can be a wonderful time of the year. Many people love to decorate their homes, both inside and outside, as well as bake wonderful treats, and spend extra time with family.

    Even better, you can enjoy this time with your beloved pets by your side. However, this can also be a dangerous time for them, but it doesn’t have to be. Here are some tips to help you avoid any emergencies over the holiday season.

    You must be careful with your Christmas tree. 

    Though your tree might be the centerpiece of your decorating, the truth is that they aren’t always the best for your pets.

    Playful puppies and kittens have been known to knock over a perfectly decorated Christmas tree, simply because it is in the way! They can also get caught in the cord of lights, which may make them fall over, too. Some curious cats and dogs will bite the cord, which can lead to burns.

    The decorations themselves can be hard to keep your pets away from. 

    Many cats are drawn to tinsel; you may notice your cat wants to eat it! This can cause an obstruction or perforation, which could lead to emergency surgery. They may also play with dangling ornaments, batting at them until they fall off and break.

    For this reason, you may want to put something around your tree to keep your beloved pets away from it completely!

    Many Christmas and holiday plants are toxic to pets. 

    Many people love to give plants as gifts, which isn’t always a good thing if you own pets. One of the most common plants that are toxic to cats includes lilies. Even if they only eat a small amount, it can send your cat to the emergency room.

    Other plants to avoid would include mistletoe, balsam, pine, holly, and Christmas cacti. Poinsettia plants, while not toxic, can cause drooling and vomiting, so you may want to avoid them also.

    Watch table scraps. 

    Many people seem to eat from Thanksgiving to Christmas, going from party to party. They may also have parties in their home, where some guests may feed their pets without realizing the consequences of their actions.

    Some of the main foods to avoid include chocolate, onions, grapes, raisins, certain nuts, and any foods that contain xylitol. Your pets should also stay away from alcohol and caffeinated drinks.

    Many people want to give their pets a treat over the holidays and may give them some trimming and side dishes. These dishes may contain more fat than your pet is used to, which can lead to some serious conditions, such as pancreatitis.

    If you have a nervous dog and are having a party, you may want to keep him or her locked away from guests. 

    Even the calmest dog and cat can become overwhelmed by a houseful of guests, so it is important that your pet has a way to get away from everyone!

    You may want to set up a space in the back for your pets to relax. Make it special by adding their bed with their favorite blankets. You may want to give them a new toy or a chew bone that will occupy them while everything else is going on. Some even do better if you leave music on, so that they don’t hear everything that is going on outside!

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    The holidays can be a great time for everyone, including your pets. That being said, you need to use caution with your Christmas tree and the plants you use to decorate it. Lilies are the worst for cats, so they should be avoided at all costs! You also need to keep your pets away from all the food that you may be eating over the holidays. A lot of it is too fatty for their taste, and it could cause some problems. Some parties are also too much for pets, so you may want to set up an area for them to relax and avoid it all!

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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. 

  • Reducing Stress at the Veterinarian’s Office

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    Just like a doctor’s visit can be stressful for you, your pets may also feel the same anxiety when they go to the veterinarian’s office. Then, if they have a bad visit, it only gets worse. Every visit gets harder and harder for your pet.

    For that reason, you need to make sure that your pet’s veterinary visits go as smoothly as possible. Here are some tips to help.

    Ensure that you properly socialize any new puppies you acquire. 

    When you first get a new puppy (and they are properly vaccinated), you need to introduce them to new places. You will want to take them to different places so that they don’t fear going anywhere. Instead, each new place should be a fun place to explore!

    So, get them used to going in the car to visit the pet store, friends’ and family’s homes, and even the veterinarian’s office. Most veterinarians will allow you to bring your new puppy in to get them used to coming in. They may even take time out of their day to play with your puppy and give him or her treats, just to make sure that they know it is a safe place.

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    During this time, ensure that your pet is accustomed to being handled. 

    Most dogs and cats don’t enjoy getting touched, so you need to handle your new puppy and kitten regularly. Play with his or her feet. Look into the ears. Feel their belly, like they would have done at the veterinarian’s office. Look inside your pet’s mouth. All of this will make the examination go more smoothly.

    You may even want to practice restraint. This is often the worst part of the visit, even over toenail trims and ear cleanings. Most dogs and cats don’t want to be held still. So, next time you take your dog or cat to the veterinarian, observe how they are held, so you can get your dog or cat used to it at home.

    Find the right veterinarian. 

    Many veterinarians want your puppies and kittens to have a good experience. They want their patients to enjoy their visits, and they work hard to make sure that it happens. They may have a treat jar (or even a treat drawer) where they can pull out tasty snacks to make sure that your pet has a good experience.

    Know the signs of stress.

     It is essential to recognize when your dog or cat appears to be stressed.

    Here are some signs of stress that you should look for:

    • Shedding
    • Licking or biting skin
    • Drooling
    • Barking and whining (in dogs)
    • Hissing (in cats)
    • Big eyes
    • Trembling
    • Hiding or, if unable to hide, they might tuck their body in order to make it as small as possible
    • Any habit that isn’t normal for your pet

    If the visit to the veterinarian’s office is too stressful, you may need to try again on another day (or consider using medication to make the experience more manageable).

    If your dog or cat is excessively stressed, your veterinarian may recommend medication. 

    Though you may not want to do so, it might be in everyone’s best interest. A pill or two could make the visit go that much smoother for your pet, you, and the entire veterinary team.

    The goal isn’t to completely sedate your pet, but you want to take the edge off so that they aren’t as stressed (and are easier to handle). If your veterinarian would rather man-handle your dog or cat, it might not be the right place for you! It could just make the entire thing worse.

    Always use a well-fitting collar or harness when coming to the veterinarian’s office. 

    You also need to have a good leash. Not only will you be able to bring your dog into the office, but it will also keep them safe. If there are other animals in the waiting room, you will have control of your own dog.

    Although you may think you need a flexible leash, it is a much better idea to get a sturdy one, similar to this one from Amazon. Chewy also offers a variety of leashes for you to choose from. 

    Prodcut Available on Amazon

    If you have a cat (or small dog), you may also want to get a good carrier. It is even better if they have an extra few doors, like this one below, which is available on Amazon. Chewy also has plenty of carriers for sale too!

    Product is Available on Amazon

    Make sure that you bring your pet’s favorite treat along! 

    Though your veterinarian may offer treats, you may want to bring something that your dog or cat really enjoys. You may want to consider bringing cheese, chicken, or even hot dogs if that is what your dog loves to have.

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    The best thing you can do for your new pet is to get them properly socialized. This means riding in the car and exploring new places. You may even want to visit the veterinarian’s office a few times before your appointment. It also helps to get him or her used to being handled and restrained. That helps the visit go that much smoother!

    That being said, there are times when you may need to think about using sedatives. Though you may not want to use them, it can really help everyone. Your dog or cat will be less stressed. Your veterinarian may be able to complete the examination quickly, which means that your beloved pet will be back home sooner than expected! This is a win-win for everyone!

    ***

    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 essential to understand 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. 

  • What You Need To Know About Your Dog’s Vaccines

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    When you go to the veterinarian for vaccines, you may be asked about several vaccines. This can become confusing, and you may not be sure exactly what your dog needs. You don’t want to over-vaccinate your dog, but you also need to ensure that he or she receives the necessary vaccines.

    Here are some vaccines that your veterinarian may recommend for your dog.

    Your dog needs to have a Rabies vaccine. 

    This disease, which is caused by the rabies virus, affects the brain and central nervous system. It is transmitted by direct contact with saliva from an infected animal. This is usually through a bite.

    The rabies vaccine is so important because it can also affect humans. It is also deadly! Many states require all dogs (and cats) to have a rabies vaccine to keep everyone healthy!

    The Distemper vaccine is a single vaccine that covers a variety of diseases, including distemper, hepatitis, parvovirus, and Parainfluenza.

    • Distemper is a highly contagious respiratory disease. It is spread through saliva, urine, and feces. It is often fatal.
    • Hepatitis is an infectious disease that can lead to severe liver damage. If left untreated, it can cause death. It is quite serious in puppies and older dogs and is spread through contact with infected urine.
    • Parvovirus is a highly contagious viral infection of the intestinal tract. It is spread through contact with the feces of another infected dog. It strikes quickly and can be deadly for puppies. This disease was rare until recently, when people stopped vaccinating their dogs as much as they used to.
    • Parainfluenza is a viral respiratory infection that may cause Kennel Cough. It is usually transmitted by contact with the nasal secretions of an infected dog. Puppies and older dogs are at a greater risk for parainfluenza.
    • Your dog’s distemper vaccine may also contain Leptospirosis. This is a bacterial disease that can cause kidney and liver problems. If left untreated, it can cause kidney failure. It is spread through infected urine. If a wild animal has leptospirosis, it can urinate near streams and other areas with standing water. If your dog drinks contaminated water, they may be at risk for the disease. Leptospirosis can also be transmitted to humans, making it even more important.
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    The Bordetella vaccine is also known as the Kennel Cough vaccine. 

    It is used to prevent bacterial infections that cause kennel cough. If your dog has kennel cough, it may be caused by kennel cough alone, or it could be a combination of respiratory diseases.

    If your dog is around other dogs, he or she should probably get the Bordetella vaccine. This may include taking your pet to the kennel or the groomer. You may also want to protect your dog if you take him or her to the dog park or allow your dog to spend time with a lot of other dogs.

    The Lyme vaccine is helpful to protect your dog against this complex bacterial disease. 

    It can cause pain in the joints and lameness. Lyme disease is spread through the bites of infected deer ticks.

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    When deciding which vaccinations your dog needs, consult with your veterinarian and technicians. He or she will be able to identify the risks your dog faces, allowing them to develop a suitable vaccination plan.

    Whether you choose to vaccinate your dog or not, he or she needs to have a rabies vaccine. The distemper shot is also important to keep your dog as healthy as possible. If he or she is around other dogs, you may want to get the Bordetella vaccine. If you live in an area with a high tick population, it’s essential to protect your dog against Lyme disease.

    ***

    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. 

  • Retractable Leashes: There is a Time and a Place for Them (and Not Just the Trash Can)!

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    I recently wrote an article about why you should throw away your retractable leashes. If you haven’t gotten a chance to check it out, you can read it right here.

    I stand by my belief that these leashes are just terrible. It is much better to use a good and simple leash, like this one, which is available on Amazon. Chewy also has a variety of leashes to choose from.

    Product Available on Amazon

    That being said, I was put in my place and told that these leashes do have a purpose (even if I can’t for the life of me figure it out)!

    Here are some times when you might be able to get away with using a retractable leash.

    Training. 

    If you are in a good location where your dog can’t get to anyone (or any other animals), it may be a useful training tool. You can work on sitting, staying, and coming, without letting go of your dog.

    With well-trained dogs. 

    If your dog listens well and will come back to you when you call, you may be able to use a retractable leash when you take him or her out. However, if he or she is just going to take off and possibly break the leash, you should stick with a shorter and sturdier leash.

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    Smaller dogs. 

    Smaller dogs may do fine with a retractable leash. They aren’t going to be able to pull you over when they take off after someone.

    With those who have limited mobility. 

    One person commented that she was in a wheelchair and her retractable leash allowed her dog to move around and not get caught in the wheels of her wheelchair. Since she isn’t as mobile, they were able to get a little farther away from her, and it worked well for her.

    In your own backyard. 

    Someone commented that they used retractable leashes when it was raining or snowing. Their dogs could go outside, do their business, and come in without the owner having to leave their porch!

    Here are some times and places where retractable leashes should never be used.

    The veterinary office. 

    For some reason, most people love these leashes, and they seem to be the most popular leashes that we see in the office. However, that doesn’t mean that they are the best. I have seen way too many dogs get too close to others, simply because their owner doesn’t have any control over their dog on these leashes.

    I have personally been wrapped around multiple times by these leashes, usually on a daily basis! Luckily, it has never caused me to fall, but it could!

    Places where your dog can get too close to another dog. 

    You aren’t going to want to let your dog get too close to another dog, especially if you don’t know if the other dog is friendly or not. He or she may just get too upset about your dog being near him or her, that your dog may be in danger!

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    Though it is a personal choice, I don’t know many people who truly believe that retractable leashes are a good idea. People and dogs can get hurt when these leashes aren’t used properly. It can wind around a person, causing them to fall! Your dog may also get away from you and get too close to another dog (who might not be as friendly)!

    That being said, many people said that they worked well for training, as well as dogs that are well-trained. One wheelchair-bound person said she needed the extra line for her dog, while another could stay inside while her dogs went to the bathroom in the rain or snow!

    ***

    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 essential to understand 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. 

  • Throw Away the Retractable Leashes

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    Working in the veterinary field, we see a wide variety of collars and leashes used. Carriers — they come in all forms, too, though this article is just going to be about those awful retractable leashes.

    I understand the point of them. You can allow your dog to roam farther away from you than if he or she were on a short leash. However, I don’t believe that makes up for all of their downsides. I have also seen many unfortunate incidents involving retractable leashes.

    Here are some things that can happen when you use a retractable leash.

    The leashes can go out so far, and then they break. 

    At this point, your dog is pretty far away from you, and you may struggle to catch up with him or her. If your dog chases after a rabbit or other animal, you may have no chance of keeping him or her close to you.

    Your dog could also jerk against the leash and hurt his or her neck. 

    Stopping suddenly while running could really injure your dog’s neck. He or she may become stiff and unable to move easily, though it could also severely injure his or her spinal cord or break your dog’s neck. Some dogs have become paralyzed due to the jerk that occurs at the end of the leash.

    These leashes can also hurt people. 

    Many people have gotten wrapped up in retractable leashes. This can trip them. Others get rope burn from the leash rubbing against their legs.

    Even worse, the leash can continue, which could quickly deteriorate the whole situation. Some dogs will wrap themselves around a person multiple times without realizing it!

    Because the leash keeps going, you don’t really have control over your dog, and he or she may get into another pet’s personal space. 

    When out walking, your dog might get into another dog’s face before you can even react. Then, when you try to pull him or her away, it isn’t very easy. You will have to pull and pull to get the leash shorter before you can get your dog under control. If he or she is in a fight, you are just wasting valuable time fighting with the leash.

    When you take your dog to the veterinarian, it may come into contact with a variety of other animals in the clinic. He or she may get a cat all wound up, simply because your dog is too close for comfort.

    Your dog may also get away from you easily. 

    He or she may jump into the street or run right into another person because you don’t have any control over your dog.

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    Retractable leashes, though the concept is a good idea, really aren’t the best for any dog. They often break once your dog gets to the end of the leash. Your dog could take off after something, and you could lose him or her. Your dog could also hurt him or herself with a retractable leash. Many dogs have broken their neck when they jerk at the end of the line. Some even become paralyzed by them!

    Also, since the leash keeps going, you don’t really have any control over your dog. He or she can run away from you, get into another pet’s face, and even pull you over. Your dog could also wrap it around another person, causing him or her to fall. Rope burns are also familiar with these leashes.

    If you are a serious dog owner, you should invest in a good leash and discard your retractable one for good. When I was training my dog, I used a simple six-foot leash, similar to this one from Amazon. Chewy also offers a variety of leashes for you to choose from. 

    Product Available on Amazon

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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.

    ***

    It is also important that you understand 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. 

  • Red Flags When It Comes to Finding a Puppy

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    I recently wrote an article about using ethical breeders. If you are trying to figure out why you would want to go this route, you can read my article about it right here.

    If you have already decided to go this route, and you are looking for an ethical breeder, you should read my article about finding an ethical breeder.

    That being said, it can be challenging to distinguish between an ethical breeder and one that is merely breeding for profit. For this reason, you need to look for red flags. Just like you would end a relationship over a red flag, you should do the same with a breeder.

    Here are some red flags to avoid.

    Breeders who don’t do any health testing. 

    Good breeders want to ensure that their puppies are of the highest quality, and they aren’t afraid to spend the money to prove that! They do as much health testing as required for the breed, so that you know that you are getting high-quality puppies.

    They are also unlikely to register their dogs. 

    Whether you are looking for registered dogs, choosing parents who are registered helps you feel better about the puppies you are selecting. You will know that they come from good stock.

    Puppies that end up in pet stores are often from backyard breeders. 

    No reputable breeder would sell their puppies to pet stores to get into the hands of anyone who wants a puppy! They will want to take the time to ensure that they put their puppies into the right hands.

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    Fancy websites should also be avoided. 

    Many websites are full of puppies for sale, many of which are bred without any thought other than making some money!

    The same goes for breeders who sell puppies before they are eight weeks old. 

    Puppies need time with their mom and other puppies before being sold. In fact, some smaller dogs are kept with their parents until they are twelve weeks old.

    They won’t allow you to visit them in their environment. 

    You can learn a great deal about puppies by observing their parents. If you aren’t able to at least see the mom, you might want to be wary of the puppies.

    You should be able to meet the mother of the puppies, at the very least, before choosing one. Getting to know and meet the mom is a great way to learn more about your puppies. If you can’t see her, you might want to avoid them.

    Don’t trust those who breed for smaller sizes. 

    Many fad breeders breed “teacups,” which actively promote runts. These smaller dogs may not be as healthy as their standard relatives. They may struggle to keep their blood sugar levels stable, which can lead to seizures and other health issues.

    The same can be said for those who breed for special colors. 

    If the breed that you are looking at doesn’t have specific colors, you should avoid getting those puppies. These breeders attempt to breed “flashy” and “rare” colors solely because they can earn more money doing so.

    You may also want to avoid mixed-breed puppies. 

    True and ethical breeders will not want to breed two different breeds together.

    Photo Courtesy of Canva

    Though you may be looking for something in particular when it comes to your next dog, the truth is that you have to be careful when buying puppies. There are many red flags that you should avoid. You should avoid buying puppies from dogs that are not registered or those that haven’t undergone any health testing. It is a good idea to stay away from pet stores, as well as fancy websites. You should also avoid some of the fads that are popular, such as different colors, smaller sizes, and mixed-breed dogs that are sold as purebreds!

    ***

    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. 

  • How to Find an Ethical Breeder

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    I recently wrote an article about why you should look for ethical breeders instead of just backyard breeders. If you haven’t had a chance to read it, you can check it out right here.

    Once you decide to use an ethical breeder, it is time to find one. Here are some tips to help you find the puppy you want from an ethical breeder.

    These breeders will want to ask YOU questions about your background and may even request veterinarian references. 

    Backyard breeders, on the other hand, are likely to be willing to sell a puppy to anyone who wants it. If you show up with cash, you could be going home with your new puppy.

    If you find an ethical breeder, they will be more likely to help match you up with the right dog. 

    To them, it is more essential to pick a puppy that matches your lifestyle than to meet your preferences for sex and color. They will help you with that, but if they find a puppy that would work well for you and your family, they may recommend that you consider this opportunity.

    They may even ask for references because they want to ensure that their puppies are going to the right homes.

    Many breeders want to show off their litters to potential buyers. 

    If you are looking for an ethical breeder, you will want to be able to stop by and see how the puppies are doing. Although puppies can be messy, they should look clean and healthy when you visit. You should also ensure that the mother appears healthy.

    They are proud of the dogs and puppies they have and will work to ensure that the puppies they sell are ready to go! 

    Many breeders spend a significant amount of time with their puppies, gaining extensive knowledge about them. They often start training and socializing them, so that they are not fearful in the future. They quickly learn which ones are suited for pets and which ones work well in other types of homes.

    Photo Courtesy of Canva

    So, when you decide that you want a dog, they will ask you what you are looking for so that they can match you up with the right dog for your family and lifestyle. 

    If you are more active and looking for a dog to take on hikes, you will need a different dog than one that will lie beside you while you work and watch television.

    Long-time breeders may have a waiting list. 

    If you find a breeder with a waiting list, they have likely produced a high volume of quality puppies, which brings people back for more. Although you do not need to find a breeder that has been doing it for years, you can feel better knowing that many people have been coming back for more puppies.

    You may also be required to sign a contract when you purchase a puppy. 

    In the contract, they may want to know what you plan to do with your dog, whether it will be a show dog or a pet. The breeder may require you to spay or neuter your pet at a certain age, because they don’t want to support backyard breeders. Most breeders will have a clause where they will want you to return the dog to them, instead of getting rid of him or her.

    Photo Courtesy of Canva

    It can be challenging to find a quality and ethical breeder because there are numerous backyard breeders. However, if you find a breeder who is dedicated to his or her breed, as well as his or her dogs and puppies, you have likely found a good breeder.

    These breeders spend a lot of time with their puppies, and they will do whatever they can to ensure that you get the right one for you and your family (as well as your lifestyle). That being said, you may find yourself on a waiting list because a good breeder often has people waiting to find the right puppy!

    ***

    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. 

  • Let’s Talk About It: Cleaning Up Dog Poop (Without Losing Your Mind)

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    If you’re a dog parent, you’re also—like it or not—a professional poop picker-upper. It’s just part of the deal. You’ve probably found yourself doing the awkward poop bag hand dance while your dog takes their sweet time in the middle of a public park. Or maybe you’ve experienced the soul-crushing horror of realizing you forgot a bag after the deed has been done. We’ve all been there!

    Picking up after your dog isn’t exactly glamorous, but it’s necessary. Not only for public courtesy, but also for health reasons—dog waste can carry bacteria and parasites that aren’t great for other pets (or humans). The good news? With the right tools, this daily duty can be way less gross and a lot more manageable.

    Here are three simple products that make cleanup quicker, cleaner, and slightly less icky:

    Pooper Scooper

    A pooper scooper is the unsung hero of backyard cleanup. If you’ve got a yard, this tool is a game-changer. No bending, no plastic bags around your hand—just a quick scoop and done. It keeps you (and your nose) at a safe distance and makes regular cleanup way easier.

    Product Available on Amazon

    Poop Bags

    Yes, the humble poop bag. But not all bags are created equal. Go for thick, leak-proof ones with easy-open tops (because struggling with a bag in the wind while your dog pulls on the leash should be an Olympic sport). Bonus points if they’re biodegradable—you get to keep the planet a little cleaner while cleaning up your dog’s mess. Keep a roll stashed everywhere: in your coat pocket, car, and next to the front door.

    Product Available on Amazon

    Gloves

    If you’re the squeamish type—or you’ve ever had a poop bag betrayal—you know the importance of backup. Disposable gloves can be a lifesaver, especially for yard cleanups or dealing with extra-messy situations. Keep a box in the garage or near your dog supplies for quick access. You’ll feel way more confident (and a little less grossed out).

    Product Available on Amazon

    It’s Not Glamorous—But It Can Be Easy

    Let’s be real: no one likes picking up poop. But it’s part of the job when you love a dog. With the right tools and a little prep, it doesn’t have to be a daily hassle—or something you dread.

    Amazon offers a pooper scooper with 100 bags, so that you will be all set for cleaning up after your dog!

    Product Available on Amazon

    So grab that scooper, stock up on bags, and maybe keep some gloves handy. Your dog does their part (whether they want to or not)—now you can handle cleanup like a pro.

    ***

    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 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.

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    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. 

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    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.

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    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.

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    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.