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Category: Veterinary Care

  • 5 Signs Your Cat May Be in Pain (and When to Call the Vet)

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    Cats are experts at pretending everything’s fine. 🐾 It’s one of their greatest survival instincts — and one of the biggest challenges for cat parents. By the time a cat shows obvious signs of pain, the problem may already be serious.

    As a certified veterinary technician with over 20 years of experience, I’ve helped countless cat owners learn how to spot the subtle clues that something isn’t right.

    Here are five common signs your cat might be in pain, plus how to know when it’s time to call your vet.

    🐾 Changes in Behavior or Personality

    If your usually affectionate cat suddenly hides, avoids attention, or becomes irritable, it may be their way of saying something hurts.

    Cats in pain often withdraw from family life, hide under furniture, or stop greeting you at the door. Some even growl or hiss when touched.

    💡 Vet Tech Tip:
     Behavior changes are one of the first and most important clues. If your cat’s acting “off” — especially if it lasts more than a day or two — don’t assume they’re just moody. Pain or illness could be the cause.

    🐈 Changes in Grooming Habits

    A healthy cat spends hours each day grooming. If you notice your cat grooming less — or not at all — it could mean they’re uncomfortable or stiff. On the other hand, over-grooming one area can also signal pain, especially if the skin looks red or thin.

    💡 Vet Tech Tip:
     Over-grooming around the joints often points to arthritis pain, while excessive licking on the belly or sides may indicate discomfort in internal organs. Watch for bald patches or irritated skin.

    🩺 Changes in Appetite or Drinking

    If your cat stops eating, drinks excessively, or avoids food altogether, that’s a red flag. Pain in the mouth, teeth, or internal organs can make eating uncomfortable.

    💡 Vet Tech Tip:
     Even skipping one meal can be dangerous for cats, especially overweight ones — it can lead to a serious condition called hepatic lipidosis (fatty liver disease).

    If your cat refuses food or water for 24 hours or more, call your vet immediately.

    🐾 Changes in Movement or Posture

    Is your cat suddenly hesitating to jump, climb, or use the stairs? Do they walk stiffly or limp after resting? Cats in pain often change how they move.

    You might also notice them sleeping curled tightly, hunched over, or keeping their head lower than usual — these can be signs of discomfort.

    💡 Vet Tech Tip:
     Arthritis is more common in cats than most people realize, even in younger ones. If your cat’s movement changes, don’t dismiss it as “getting older.” A vet visit can make a world of difference.

    🐕‍🦺 Changes in Litter Box Habits

    Painful cats often associate the litter box with discomfort — especially if they have arthritis, urinary issues, or constipation. They may start going just outside the box, using another surface, or straining to urinate or defecate.

    💡 Vet Tech Tip:
     Any straining in the litter box — especially if no urine comes out — is an emergency. Male cats can develop life-threatening urinary blockages that require immediate vet care.

    🐾 When to Call the Vet

    It’s time to call your veterinarian if your cat:

    • Hides for more than a day or two
    • Refuses food or water
    • Shows sudden aggression or fear of touch
    • Has difficulty jumping or walking
    • Strains or cries in the litter box

    If your gut says something’s wrong — trust it. Cats rarely “act sick” unless they truly are.

    🐱 Final Thoughts

    Cats are subtle creatures, and their way of showing pain is easy to miss. But once you know what to watch for, you can catch issues early and help your feline friend stay comfortable and healthy.

    When in doubt, call your vet — it’s always better to check than to wait and worry. Your cat’s health and happiness are worth it. 💙🐾

    ***

    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. 

  • 5 Signs Your Dog Might Be in Pain (and When to Call the Vet)

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    One of the hardest parts of being a pet parent is that our dogs can’t tell us when they’re hurting. 🐾 As a certified veterinary technician with over 20 years of experience, I’ve seen countless loving owners miss the signs that their dog was in pain — not because they didn’t care, but because dogs are masters at hiding discomfort.

    Knowing what to watch for can make all the difference. The sooner you spot the warning signs, the sooner you can help your pup get the care they need.

    Here are five common signs your dog might be in pain, plus when it’s time to call your veterinarian.

    🦴 Changes in Behavior or Mood

    If your usually happy dog suddenly seems grumpy, anxious, or withdrawn, pain could be the cause. Dogs often react to discomfort by becoming quieter or avoiding touch. Some might even growl or snap when you go near the sore area.

    💡 Vet Tech Tip:
     Behavioral changes are one of the first signs we notice in the clinic. If your dog seems “off” for more than a day or two — especially if paired with other symptoms — schedule an exam.

    🐾 Limping, Stiffness, or Difficulty Moving

    Limping or favoring one leg is an obvious sign of pain, but sometimes the signs are subtle — like hesitation to climb stairs, jump into the car, or get up from bed. These can point to arthritis, injury, or sore muscles.

    💡 Vet Tech Tip:
     Watch how your dog moves first thing in the morning or after rest. Stiffness that improves as they move often points to arthritis. Sudden, sharp limping could mean a strain or injury that needs prompt attention.

    🐕 Changes in Eating, Drinking, or Sleeping Habits

    Pain often affects appetite and rest. A dog who’s hurting might skip meals, refuse treats, or seem restless at night. Others may sleep more than usual to cope.

    💡 Vet Tech Tip:
    If your dog’s eating habits change suddenly — or if they skip food for more than 24 hours — it’s time to call your vet. Pain from dental disease, joint issues, or internal problems can all cause changes in appetite.

    🧼 Panting, Shaking, or Restlessness

    Panting when it’s not hot outside can be a subtle sign of discomfort, especially if it’s paired with trembling or pacing. Dogs in pain often can’t get comfortable — they’ll shift positions or keep changing spots to try to find relief.

    💡 Vet Tech Tip:
     If your dog is panting heavily at rest, shaking, or seems unusually restless, monitor them closely. Combine this with other symptoms (like vomiting or loss of appetite), and it’s definitely time to call the vet.

    🐾 Changes in Posture or Grooming

    Dogs often show pain through their body language. They might hunch their back, tuck their tail, or hold their head low. Some lick or chew at one spot repeatedly — sometimes even causing hair loss or redness.

    💡 Vet Tech Tip:
     Excessive licking isn’t “just a habit.” It often means your dog is trying to soothe a painful area, whether it’s from arthritis, allergies, or an injury. If you can’t find a reason, your vet can.

    🩺 When to Call the Vet

    Call your vet if your dog:

    • Refuses food or water for more than 24 hours
    • Has persistent limping or mobility issues
    • Cries or growls when touched
    • Pants or trembles for no reason
    • Shows any sudden, severe behavior change

    If your gut says something’s wrong — trust it. You know your dog best, and early action can make all the difference.

    🐶 Final Thoughts

    Pain in dogs isn’t always obvious, but it’s never something to ignore. Subtle changes in movement, mood, or appetite often tell you your pup needs help.

    By staying observant and acting early, you can help your dog live a longer, more comfortable, and pain-free life. 💙

    And remember — it’s always better to call your vet and be told “everything’s fine” than to wait and wish you hadn’t. 🐾

    ***

    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. 

  • Soft vs. Hard-Sided Carriers: Which One Makes Vet Trips Easier?

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    If you’ve ever tried getting a nervous cat or squirmy little dog into a carrier before a vet visit, you know—it’s not always graceful. Between the panicked flailing, the sudden disappearance under the bed, and the “Nope, not today” energy they bring, the right carrier can make a huge difference in how smooth (or not) the whole experience is. That’s why so many pet owners wonder: should I go with a soft-sided carrier or a hard plastic one?

    Soft-sided carriers are lightweight, easy to carry, and a lot more flexible—which makes squeezing them into car seats, vet office corners, or under waiting room chairs way easier. Many of them unzip on multiple sides or have top-loading options, which is a total win when you’re trying to gently ease in a less-than-willing pet. Plus, they’re often more comfortable inside, with soft padding and breathable mesh windows that make the ride a little less stressful for your pet.

    Product Available on Amazon

    Hard-sided carriers, on the other hand, are all about sturdiness. They hold their shape no matter what and offer a little more protection if your pet’s a thrasher or tends to panic in transit. They’re also easier to clean—one quick wipe-down and you’re good to go, which is handy if your pet has an accident or gets carsick. Some have secure latches instead of zippers, which can give extra peace of mind if you’ve got an escape artist.

    Product Available on Amazon

    So which one’s better? If your pet is relatively calm and you value convenience and comfort (especially if you’re the one lugging it around), a soft-sided carrier is probably the way to go. But if your dog or cat tends to freak out, tries to claw or chew their way out, or just needs a little more containment, a hard-sided carrier might be the safer bet.

    At the end of the day, it really depends on your pet’s temperament—and how much stress you’re both willing to deal with during vet days. Either way, the right carrier makes all the difference in turning the pre-vet scramble into a smoother, less dramatic process. 🐾

    ***

    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.

  • Reasons to Spay or Neuter Your Pet

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    Owning a pet is a big responsibility, one that shouldn’t be taken lightly. Your cute and cuddly kitten is going to grow up into a cat that may prefer to spend time outdoors (rather than beside you on the couch). Your little puppy may become over fifty pounds, so it isn’t going to be cute when he jumps on you at that size. In fact, he could seriously hurt you!

    There are many decisions that you may be facing as a new pet owner. You will need to decide which vaccines you want your new pet to have. You may also be trying to determine if you want to get your pet spayed or neutered.

    If you are one of those owners who aren’t sure about what to do, here are some reasons why you may want to think about getting your pet spayed or neutered.

    Responsible

    Spaying and neutering your pet is the responsible thing to do. It will stop adding to the unwanted animal population.

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    That being said, you should talk to your veterinarian to determine the best time to spay or neuter your pet. Many veterinarians recommend spaying or neutering cats of either sex around six months of age.

    However, with dogs, more veterinarians are waiting until they are a little older. This is even more true with bigger breeds. Veterinarians agree that you should wait until your large breed male dog is over a year old (unless he starts exhibiting destructive behaviors). For females, some recommend spaying prior to heat, while others recommend letting them go through at least one heat cycle.

    Keeps your pet home

    The simple truth is that male animals are driven to find females that are in heat. If your male cat or dog gets out, he will likely roam until he finds what he is looking for. In fact, this is one of the reasons why males get lost. They are too busy chasing a female that they get lost and can’t find their way back to their owners.

    And safe

    Male dogs and cats are more likely to get hit by cars because they are too busy focusing on the scent of a female in heat.

    Healthier

    Spaying and neutering early can prevent many diseases. Neutering will prevent testicular cancer and prostate diseases. Spaying early will prevent breast tumors. With every heat cycle that a female has, she is more likely to get mammary cancer.

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    Unspayed females can also get a pyometra. This nasty disease, which is an infected uterus, can kill your dog, if left untreated. The only way to fix the problem is to spay your dog. However, by this point, your dog is sick, so the surgery is riskier than a routine spay. This is just one more reason why you need to consider spaying your dog before anything happens!

    Less behavioral problems

    Spaying and neutering pets can help reduce certain unwanted behaviors. This may include males who like to mark their territory. Males are also less likely to hump your leg. Neutering early can also help you avoid any aggressive behaviors.

    Though you may be struggling with the decision on whether you should spay or neuter your dog, you really should consider it, unless you decide to breed your pet. It is the responsible thing to do. It also helps to keep your pets home. They will be less likely to roam the neighborhood, looking for a mate.

    It is also healthier. You won’t have to worry about testicular cancer or prostate problems in your male dog. If you have a female, you won’t have to worry about pyometras and spaying her when she isn’t feeling well! It can also help prevent behavior problems before they start.

    ***

    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. 

  • What You Need to Know About Intestinal Worms

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    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.

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    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.

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    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. 

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

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    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

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    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.

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    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.

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

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    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. 

  • 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.

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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. 

  • What You Need to Know About Your Cat’s Vaccines

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    Most people don’t want to take their cat to the veterinarian, yet it is a crucial way to keep their cat as healthy as possible. Not only will your veterinarian take a good look at your cat, but he or she will also make sure that your cat is fully protected with vaccines.

    While you don’t want to over-vaccinate your cat, you also don’t want to have to worry about him or her getting sick. You may be unsure about which vaccines your cat really needs. You may not want to give any, since your cat doesn’t even go outside. This may not be very clear for many pet owners.

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

    Your cat 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 cats to have a rabies vaccine to keep everyone healthy!

    Photo Courtesy of Canva

    The distemper vaccine is a single vaccine that covers a variety of diseases. 

    Its initials can help you remember all the different diseases that a distemper vaccine prevents. FVRCP stands for:

    • Feline viral rhinotracheitis (FVR) can be fatal to kittens and older cats. It causes cats to sneeze and develop a fever. Many cats exhibit symptoms of a runny nose and eyes. Cats who have FVR often lose their appetite.
    • Feline calicivirus is a severe respiratory infection often associated with FVR. Cats will have nasal congestion and sneezing. Many cats also develop painful ulcers in their mouth, which can lead to drooling. These cats often get a fever and don’t feel very well.
    • Panleukopenia is a contagious disease that can be deadly for kittens. Signs include vomiting, diarrhea, fever, and depression.

    You may want to consider vaccinating your cat against Feline Leukemia. 

    This virus interferes with your cat’s immune system, meaning that he or she won’t be able to fight infection as well as usual. This disease is spread through saliva, urine, and blood. Cats get it by sharing food bowls, grooming, and bites.

    If your cat is an outdoor cat, you should consider getting the leukemia vaccine to keep them as safe as possible.

    Another disease to consider with outside cats is Feline Immunodeficiency Virus (FIV). 

    Unfortunately, there is no vaccine for this disease and no cure. Even worse, many cats that have FIV, also have feline leukemia.

    Feline immunodeficiency virus is also transmitted through saliva. Biting, scratching, and fighting (which is common with outside cats) will spread this disease from cat to cat.

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    For this reason, you should check every new cat (and kitten) that you get for Feline Leukemia and FIV. This is no longer a death sentence. Some of these cats can live healthy lives, as long as you take proper precautions. You will need to keep your cat inside and separate from all other cats. You won’t be able to let him or her outside, as you would help spread these diseases.

    The best way to ensure your cat is fully vaccinated is to consult with your veterinarian. Let him or her know about your cat’s risk factors (including how many cats are in the home and whether he or she ever goes outside)! Then, you can decide together which vaccines your cat actually needs.

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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.