Welcome

Tag: pet owner concerns

  • Should I Be Concerned About My Overweight Dog?

    Photo Courtesy of Canva

    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.

    Photo Courtesy of Canva

    Your dog isn’t getting enough exercise. 

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

    It may be in your dog’s genetics. 

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

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

    Certain medications may cause your dog to gain weight. 

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

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

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

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

    Photo Courtesy of Canva

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

    ***

    Please note, the information provided is for educational and informational purposes only. Although I am a veterinary professional, this blog should not be used as a substitute for professional veterinary advice. 

    If your pet is experiencing a medical problem or concern, please contact a veterinary health professional immediately. 

  • Ways to Care for Your Dog on a Budget

    Photo Courtesy of Canva

    Most people can’t imagine life without having a dog by their side. They give unconditional love, without expecting much in return. They are just happy to spend time with you.

    However, most people also know that dogs cost money, so there are times when it might not be feasible to have one. They know it is not fair to add a new dog into their home when the budget won’t allow it. The simple truth is that there are ways you can fit a dog into your budget.

    Here are some ways to help you care for your dog on a budget.

    Put it in the budget.

    In order to have money to pay for your dog, you need to put his or her needs into your budget. You can start by putting a few dollars each month toward your dog’s care. After a time, you may be able to put more toward the budget. It will add up over the next several months (or years).

    Say no.

    Photo Courtesy of Canva

    The simple truth is that your dog doesn’t need everything that you see in a pet store. When you go to the pet store, you may be overwhelmed with all the things that you think your dog needs.

    He or she doesn’t need much. You will need to purchase a food and water dish, along with a leash and collar. You may want to buy a few toys, including chew toys.

    Be your own groomer.

    One of the most expensive parts of owning a dog is grooming. This is especially true for dogs that require it every few weeks. You may want to spend a few dollars to buy a set of clippers and do all the grooming yourself (or choose a dog that doesn’t need to be clipped regularly).

    You may want to look at a clipper set, such as this one, which is available on Amazon.

    Clipper Set Available on Amazon

    Don’t skimp on vaccines.

    Though you may want to avoid taking your dog to the veterinarian, vaccines will keep your dog free from common diseases that dogs get. It can also save your family from some diseases that pass from dogs to people, such as rabies.

    Annual examinations are also important. Your veterinarian will look for any problems that your dog may have. It is much cheaper to treat them in the beginning than to wait until your dog is really sick. Your dog may not even survive if you wait too long!

    I recently wrote an article about the reasons why you should vaccinate your dog. If you want, you can check it out right here.

    Spay or neuter your dog.

    Though this will cost you money, it will save you money (and heartache) in the long run. It keeps pets home because they won’t be roaming the neighborhood looking for a mate. They are less likely to hit by a car. Unspayed females can also get an infection, which can be deadly. The only way to fix it is by spaying (though it will cost a lot more due to illness).

    I recently wrote an article about the benefits of spaying and neutering your pets. If you want, you can check it out right here.

    Keep your dog out of trouble.

    Emergencies are the most expensive (and unexpected) expenses that come along with having a dog. For this reason, you need to be careful (and watch your dog). You can keep your dog safe by keeping him or her on a leash. Keep things out of reach that could harm your dog, such as grapes and chocolate.

    Photo Courtesy of Canva

    Having a dog doesn’t have to be too expensive. There are many ways to save money, including doing all the grooming yourself. You also don’t have to buy everything that you see at the pet store. Just get the basics and your dog will be just fine! Make sure that you take your dog to the veterinarian regularly to keep him or her as healthy as possible.

    ***

    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. 

  • Reasons to Microchip Your Pet

    Photo Courtesy of Canva

    What is a Microchip?

    A microchip is a tiny device that gets placed under your pet’s skin. It is usually placed between the shoulder blades so that others know where to look for it, if your pet is ever lost.

    Photo Courtesy of Canva

    It is only about the size of a grain of rice and is quick and easy to implant. It only costs about forty dollars, which may include the registration fee.

    Here are some reasons to microchip your pet.

    It helps you find your lost pet. 

    This is the main reason that microchips were designed. If your pet gets lost and he or she is taken to the veterinarian (or even local shelters), they will get scanned for a microchip.

    When this happens, your pet’s microchip number will be read. The database will help the veterinarian or local shelters get in touch with you once your pet is found.

    Microchipping is a quick and mostly painless procedure. 

    It only takes a few seconds to implant a microchip into your pet. Despite the needle being larger, most pets don’t even seem to flinch. They don’t usually get sore afterward either.

    The chip will stay in your pet, so it can’t get lost. 

    Though collars and tags are a great way to help return your pet, the truth is that they can get loose when a pet is missing. Tags easily fall off collars, which can easily come off if your pet gets stuck on something like a fence.

    That being said, if your pet has a microchip, it will always be implanted in him or her. It may shift positions slightly, but it can still be found.

    The database is national, so regardless of where your pet is located, it will be found. 

    Even if your pet crosses state lines or gets lost while you are moving, anyone who finds your pet and gets him or her scanned for a microchip will be able to find you.

    It is really easy. 

    If you don’t want to have to worry about losing your beloved pet, all you need to do is talk to your veterinarian about getting a microchip implanted into your pet. Then, all you have to do is fill out the paperwork, and you are good to go!

    In Pennsylvania (and possibly other states), a microchip can also serve as a lifetime license. 

    Instead of having to get a license every year, you can pay one time for a lifetime license for your dog. You used to be able to do that only if you got a tattoo on your dog, which required anesthesia.

    Here are some reasons why you might not want to.

    The chip may move. 

    The truth is that the microchip can travel a little bit in your pet’s body. Because of this, most veterinarians and animal shelters recognize that they can’t simply scan one area. They scan all over, just to make sure that the microchip hasn’t moved.

    For this reason, it wouldn’t hurt to have your pet scanned for a microchip whenever you take him or her to the veterinarian. This will give you some peace of mind, knowing that the chip can be found.

    Some pets have a reaction to microchips. 

    That being said, they are usually mild. You may notice some inflammation where the chip was placed. There is also a small risk of cancer developing in the future.

    Photo Courtesy of Canva

    Deciding whether to microchip your pet is a personal decision. If you are serious about getting your pet back if he or she is ever lost, you are definitely going to want to consider a microchip. It works even better than tags and collars at returning your lost pet, even if he or she is found in another state!

    ***

    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. 

  • Things to Consider When Looking for the Right Pet For Your Family

    Photo Courtesy of Canva

    When you decide to add a pet to your family, it shouldn’t be taken lightly. It can be both exciting and scary at the same time! It is essential to choose the right pet to complete your family. You need to take the time to find the right pet, or you may not have a good experience. That being said, it does sound really difficult, though it doesn’t have to be that way.

    Here are some key considerations to keep in mind when selecting the right pet for your family.

    What type of pet do you want? 

    Take your time to figure out what kind of pet you want. You may feel like a cat person or a dog person. Would you prefer a cat who would be happy to play at your feet? Do you want a dog that needs to be taken outside for walks or playtime? Do you want a smaller dog that doesn’t need as much exercise?

    Photo Courtesy of Canva

    You may also want to consider other types of pets. What about a tank full of colorful fish? What about pocket pets? You might want to check out hamsters or even guinea pigs. You may also prefer lizards, turtles, or other amphibians. You may prefer to watch your new pets in their cage environment.

    Figure out what your expenses will be, both now and in the future. 

    By thinking about your expenses, you may be able to narrow down your top choices when it comes to the type of pet that you want to have. You may not be able to care for a cat or a dog. The yearly veterinary costs may be too much for you to consider.

    You may be better off buying a fish or a pocket pet to keep you company. That being said, you will need to invest some money to get the right setup for your new pet. An aquarium needs to have a filter, a lid, lights, and much more. Your rabbit may require an outside pen. Your lizard’s setup could cost more than you realized.

    When considering expenses, don’t forget to factor in food. 

    Your fish may go through a batch of food twice a year, while your fifty-pound bag of rabbit food should last several months. Your eight-pound cat may eat a can of food a day, while your eighty-pound dog may go through a bag of food every two weeks. The same bag may last months for a five-pound dog.

    You also need to consider your lifestyle. 

    If you are home a lot, you may have the time to spend with a dog. You can take him or her outside multiple times a day for walks and play. If your children are in sports every night of the week, you may have to reconsider. You may do better with a cat who is self-sufficient. Your fish, pocket pets, and exotics don’t need as much time as other animals. They will do fine, as long as they are fed and their home is clean.

    Photo Courtesy of Canva

    Deciding what type of pet you want can be challenging. However, you have to be honest. It is not fair to a puppy if he or she spends most of the day and evening in a crate. You might do better with a cat or an exotic pet.

    You also need to consider expenses. Though it may cost more to set up a fish tank or a cage for an exotic pet, you shouldn’t have too many expenses with them, other than food. Your dog may eat a bag of food a week, plus the veterinary bills. Though they make wonderful pets, they might not be right for you at the moment!

    ***

    Dogo App

    If you get a dog and want to unleash his or her potential, you may want to check out Dogo’s tailored training programs. After taking a survey, you will receive a customized training plan for you and your dog. They also offer courses for your new dog, no biting, potty training, basic obedience, tricks, and more! 

    ***

    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. 

  • Heatstroke in Dogs: It Can Be Serious!

    Photo Courtesy of Canva

    Just like with people, dogs can struggle with the heat. They can overheat and get heatstroke, which can be deadly to them! For this reason, you need to understand what heatstroke is and how you can prevent it. You also need to know the signs that you should look for, as well as what you can do if your dog overheats or you find yourself dealing with a dog with heatstroke.

    So, what is heatstroke?

    Heatstroke is a condition that dogs get when they are outside in the heat and their bodies can’t find a way to cool off. Though they may sweat a little through their paws, there are times when panting isn’t enough to cool them down!

    Once a dog’s body temperature is one hundred and five degrees (or higher), they start to suffer from heatstroke. This can damage their organs and make them sick. Their organs may start to shut down, and it can be fatal!

    What are the signs of heatstroke?

    I recently wrote an article about overheating in dogs. If you haven’t had a chance to read it, you can check it out here.

    Basically, here are the signs that you need to keep an eye out for.

    • Heavy panting, which can turn into heavy breathing
    • Drooling
    • Increased heart rate
    • Vomiting and diarrhea (with or without blood)
    • Disorientation
    • Lethargy
    • Weakness
    • Seizures
    • Death
    Photo Courtesy of Canva

    What are some causes of heatstroke?

    The simple truth is that there are certain characteristics which make certain dogs more likely to suffer from heatstroke. This can be:

    • Age. Younger puppies and older dogs struggle more with the heat than adult dogs.
    • Breed. Certain breeds are more likely to suffer from heatstroke. This includes breeds with thick fur, as well as dogs that struggle to breathe on a regular day due to their flat face.
    • Being overweight. Overweight dogs are going to struggle with the heat more than dogs that are at a healthy weight.
    • Medical conditions. Certain medical conditions, such as heart disease and laryngeal paralysis can make it harder for dogs to deal with the heat.

    That being said, any dog can suffer from heatstroke for the following reasons:

    • Not having enough water. Dogs can get overheated if they don’t have enough water to stay hydrated during hot summer days.
    • Spending too much time in the hot sun. Just like us, dogs need time out of the direct sunlight, whether they hang out in the shade or they spend time indoors in the air conditioning.
    • Exercising during the hottest part of the day. You may need to stop taking long walks with your dog when the temperature is too hot.
    • Leaving a dog in the hot car. Too many dogs get left in a hot car and suffer from overheating due to it!
    Photo Courtesy of Canva

    What is the difference between heat exhaustion and heatstroke?

    When a dog first becomes overheated, heat exhaustion can set in. Dogs can be lethargic and weak. They may have vomiting and diarrhea. Their body temperature may be normal at this stage of overheating.

    However, if left untreated, it can turn into heatstroke. When this happens, your dog’s body temperature can rise. His or her body organs may start to shut down, and your dog may become unconscious and die.

    How does your veterinarian diagnose heatstroke?

    Heatstroke is often diagnosed by taking a dog’s temperature and observing the clinical signs. Your veterinarian will do a physical examination to make sure that your dog is doing alright.

    Your veterinarian may also request blood work in order to see how your pet’s organs are doing. You want to make sure that the organs haven’t been damaged due to heatstroke.

    What is the treatment for heatstroke?

    The first thing that needs to be done is to get your dog’s temperature down. 

    This means getting him or her out of the hot sun. You may want to take him or her in the air conditioning. If you don’t have air conditioning, you may want to use a fan to help him or her cool down.

    Spraying or wetting your dog may help to cool him or her off. 

    You are going to want to use cool water (not cold) in order to help him or her cool down.

    Make sure that you seek veterinary care. 

    Once your veterinarian diagnoses your dog with heatstroke, he or she will come up with a plan to help. He or she may recommend hospitalization, fluids, and medications, depending on your dog’s condition.

    Photo Courtesy of Canva

    Heatstroke can be a fatal disease that your dog can get from being outside in the hot sun for too long! Because of this, you need to be careful with your dog (and yourself). Make sure that you and your dog have a way to get out of the hot sun and, during the hottest part of the day, you may want to stay inside in the air conditioning.

    If your dog is showing signs of heat exhaustion or heatstroke, you need to get him or her cooled down. You should look for lethargy, vomiting, diarrhea, and even disorientation. However, you don’t want to cool him or her off too quickly! Make sure that you seek veterinary care so that your dog has the best chance of living a long and healthy life.

    ***

    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. 

  • What Can You Do If Your Pet Overheats?

    Photo Courtesy of Canva

    I recently wrote an article about keeping your pets cool in the hot summer sun. If you haven’t had a chance to read it, you can check it out right here.

    Just like us, we have to worry about our pets overheating. They aren’t able to cool off as easily as us, which makes it even more common for them to suffer from heatstroke.

    So, how can you figure out that your dog is overheating?

    One of the first things you may notice with a overheating dog is that they pant excessively. 

    So, what is excessive panting? If your dog is breathing as he or she does after exercise, just walking around the block, you may need to worry that your dog is getting too hot.

    Dogs that are hot may also drool more than usual. 

    Though many breeds drool more than others, the truth is that when a dog starts to overheat, he or she may drool more than normal. Excessive drooling helps a dog cool off more efficiently than panting.

    You may even notice that your dog’s heart rate is faster than usual. 

    This means that your dog’s heart is pumping more than normal, to keep his or her blood moving away from his or her vital organs. You may even notice that your dog’s heart rate is irregular, as it struggles to cool off.

    Then, your dog may start breathing really rapidly. 

    This is a sign that your dog can’t get enough oxygen to help him or her cool off from overheating.

    Your dog may also become quite lethargic. 

    He or she may stop moving so that your dog can cool down.

    He or she may even have trouble walking around and may seem disoriented. 

    As the body struggles to get enough oxygen, you may notice that your dog stumbles around when trying to walk. Many don’t really know where they are and may wander around and run into things.

    Vomiting and diarrhea are quite common with severe dehydration. 

    You may even notice blood in the vomit or diarrhea.

    If this continues, your dog may eventually collapse and show other neurologic signs. 

    Seizures can be common as your dog tries to cool off from being overheated.

    Photo Courtesy of Canva

    What can you do if your dog or cat is overheating?

    You need to get your dog out of the hot sun. 

    If you are able, get your dog into the air conditioning. If not, at least get him or her into the shade. If you are home, but you don’t have air conditioning, you may want to put him or her in front of a fan.

    Wet your dog down with cool water. 

    Though you want to cool your dog down, you can’t use cold water because it can be just as dangerous to cool him down too fast.

    Keep an eye on his or her temperature. 

    Once your dog’s temperature is at one hundred and three degrees, you can stop trying to cool him or her down with water. You can even take the fan off of him or her.

    Make sure that he or she gets something to drink. 

    Dehydration is very serious, so make sure that as soon as your dog is able, you give him or her cool water. You don’t want to use water that is too cold. Some people put ice in their pet’s water, but that isn’t a good idea when they are that overheated.

    Seek veterinary care. 

    Overheating and heatstroke can be life-threatening, so it is a good idea to get your dog checked out by the veterinarian. He or she may need some extra care to ensure that everything is going to be alright.

    Photo Courtesy of Canva

    Just like people, dogs can overheat and find themselves in serious trouble. They can suffer from heatstroke, and this can be fatal. For this reason, you really need to keep an eye on your dog when he or she is outside in this heat.

    If you notice that your dog is panting and struggling in the heat, you need to find a way to cool him or her down. Just remember that you can’t do it too fast. Get him or her inside with the air conditioning or a fan. Wet him or her down with cool water to work on getting your dog cooled off. Then, you should always get him or her checked out by the veterinarian to make sure that everything is fine.

    ***

    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. 

  • Tips to Save Money as A Pet Owner

    Photo Courtesy of Canva

    Though most people love to have a few pets, the truth is that they can be expensive. Feeding good food may be over your budget. Then, there are veterinary bills! Everything adds up.

    That being said, you can save money without getting rid of your beloved cat or dog. Here are some tips to help.

    Add your pet to your budget.

    You may need to start including your pet in your budget. Even if you can only save a few dollars a month, you will find out that you can afford to keep your beloved pet.

    Don’t go overboard with items for your pet.

    Your pet doesn’t need everything that you see in a pet store. Cats require a good food bowl, a litter pan, and a collar. Dogs need a good collar with a leash. A few inexpensive tennis balls may be all your dog needs to play.

    Stores are filled with fancy collars, clothing, and toys. You may feel like you need to buy things for your pet, but he or she doesn’t really need that much. Besides, most pets don’t even like wearing clothing.

    Do your own grooming.

    If you choose a dog that requires regular grooming, it can really add up. Many smaller breeds require grooming every three months. You may easily spend $100 (or more) a year on trips to the groomer. It is much cheaper to buy a thirty or forty-dollar pair of clippers and learn to do it yourself. Before you know it, you will be able to trim your dog the way that the groomer does, without the extra cost.

    You may want to look at a clipper set, such as this one, which is available on Amazon.

    Clipper Set Available on Amazon

    Stay up-to-date with your veterinarian.

    Although many people avoid taking their pets to the veterinarian due to the cost, the truth is that it will ultimately protect them in the long run.

    Annual examinations will help you catch anything that is wrong with your pet before it becomes an even bigger (and more expensive) problem. Vaccinations are just as important. Many diseases that pets get are easily preventable simply by keeping them up to date on vaccinations.

    Make sure that your pets are spayed or neutered.

    Though many people don’t spay or neuter their pets because of the cost, the truth is that it will save you money in the long run.

    Females are less likely to have mammary tumors, which need to be removed. They also won’t need emergency surgery because of an infection in their uterus. Male dogs and cats are less likely to roam away, possibly getting hit by a vehicle on the road.

    It is also significantly less expensive than raising and finding homes for a litter of unwanted puppies and kittens.

    Photo Courtesy of Canva

    Whether you are buying a new pet or already have one, you need to factor it into your budget. Make sure to consider how much you will need to spend on visits to the veterinarian’s office and possibly the groomer. Your pet will need to visit the vet’s office at least once a year to ensure that they are as healthy as possible.

    Vaccines will also keep him or her from getting certain diseases. Spaying and neutering will also save you money in the long run. Your pet will be less likely to get certain cancers or even run away and get hit by a car.

    You can also save money by grooming your pet yourself. Although you will have to spend some money to buy the clippers, you can easily save $100 or more a year. You may also want to avoid going to certain pet stores. Though everything is cute, your dog or cat doesn’t need clothing and all of those fancy toys!

    ***

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

    ***

    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.