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Tag: pet owner concerns

  • Introducing Your Cat To Your Newborn Baby

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    I recently wrote an article about some of the myths that people have when it comes to babies and cats. If you haven’t had a chance to read it, you can check it out here.

    Since these are just myths, you can bring a new baby home to your furbabies. You just have to be prepared and be careful as you expand your family to include tiny human ones.

    So, what should you do before you bring your new baby home?

    Before you bring home your new baby, you have to get your cat (or cats) ready. Here are some things that you should consider doing as your pregnancy advances.

    Start using pheromone therapy. 

    This is a natural way to create happiness in your home for your cats. Cats give off pheromones throughout their home when it is a safe and happy environment. There is a synthetic version, which can be started a few weeks before you bring your baby home. You may want to use a plug-in diffuser or spray to reduce stress in your cats.

    Amazon offers both the plug-in diffuser and spray in the Feliway brand, which I have seen help cats that are stressed.

    Product Available on Amazon

    You may even want to look into stress-relieving toys for your cat. 

    There are many toys that are made to keep your cats happy and stress-free. These also help with boredom. This might include scratching posts or anything else that entertain your cat.

    It might be a good idea to change caregivers in the months prior to pregnancy and the new baby coming home. 

    If mom is always the one taking care of the cats, it is going to be a huge adjustment when she isn’t able to do so. So, your cat (or cats) need to see dad step up. He can feed, change the litter, and spend some extra time with your cat as everyone gets ready for the changes coming.

    Don’t make the baby’s room off-limits to your cat. 

    Cats are curious creatures, so by keeping him or her out of the room, you are just making it that more fascinating. Allow your cat in the room as you put together the baby furniture. If you are in the nursery putting things away, let your cat in with you. This gets him or her used to the new things that are going to be a part of his or her life.

    Introduce your cat to certain smells that they are going to have to get used to. 

    You may want to use baby lotion and powder in the months prior to the baby coming home so that your cat learns that there is nothing wrong with the smell.

    You may even want to get him or her used to baby sounds. 

    If you can find a way to play a recording of different sounds that your cat is going to have to get used to, this will really help your cat adjust. Make sure that your cat is used to crying and screaming, as well as giggling before you bring your new baby home.

    You may even want to play the toys that you get for the baby. You want your cat to be used to the sound of the mobile and any toys that your baby may love to listen to!

    If you have a cat that likes to jump on things, you may want to use sticky tape to discourage him or her from jumping on the baby’s furniture. 

    If you think that your cat is going to get in your baby’s crib or on the changing table, you may want to use sticky tape on it. Since cats hate sticky surfaces, he or she will quickly learn to stay off of these pieces of furniture.

    Once you have the baby, you are going to want to bring home something that smells like him or her. 

    If you use a blanket or towel, you are going to want to let your cat smell it so that, when you do bring your baby home, your cat is already familiar with the smell.

    When you do come home from the hospital, make sure that you spend some quiet time with your cat. 

    You are going to want to give your cat some undivided attention so that he or she knows that you are home and you haven’t forgotten about them.

    Then, make sure that you spend some time with your cat every day. 

    Though your focus is going to be on your new baby, you can’t forget about your cat. Make sure that you find time every day to spend time with your cat.

    When you find out that you are going to expand your family, your entire focus is going to be on your pregnancy and the new baby. Everyone’s life is going to change, including your cat’s! If you do it right, you can make this a seamless change.

    You may want to consider using pheromone therapy in order to keep your cat calm and happy. Then, make sure that he or she gets to see everything that you are doing in the nursery. You should not make it off limits, or you are just asking for trouble. Make sure that you get your cat used to the sounds and smells that your new baby is going to be bringing home with him or her.

    When you do have the baby, you are going to want to bring something home from the hospital so that your cat can learn the smell of his or her new sister or brother. When you come home, make sure that you spend some quiet time with your cat and find time every day to make sure that your cat still feels special!

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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. 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.

  • 🐶 Vet Tech Review: Cordless Waterproof Pet Clipper

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    As a certified vet tech with over 20 years of experience, I’ve used my fair share of grooming tools — from professional-grade clippers to quick home trimmers. So when I tested this cordless, waterproof pet clipper with a detachable ceramic blade, I was genuinely impressed with how well it performed for home grooming.

    If you’ve ever tried to trim your dog or cat’s fur yourself, you know it can be stressful — for both of you! This clipper takes a lot of that worry away.

    ✂️ Smooth, Safe Cutting with Ceramic Blades

    The detachable ceramic blades glide through fur easily without snagging or pulling. They stay cool, sharp, and are easy to remove for cleaning — which is a huge plus.

    It’s gentle enough for sensitive areas like the paws, belly, and face, yet powerful enough to get through thicker coats. No tugging, no accidental nicks — just smooth, safe trimming.

    🛒 You can find it here on Amazon.

    🐾 Lightweight and Easy to Maneuver

    One of my favorite features is how lightweight and ergonomic it feels. It fits comfortably in your hand, and since it’s cordless, you don’t have to wrestle with cords or worry about startling your pet.

    It’s ideal for quick trims between grooming appointments or full-body grooming for smaller pets. Your wrist will thank you!

    🔇 Low Noise and Low Vibration

    Product Available on Amazon

    Many pets get nervous around loud clippers, but this one runs quietly and with very little vibration. That makes it perfect for anxious dogs or cats who are sensitive to sound.

    You’ll be able to work calmly and confidently — and your pet will stay relaxed the whole time.

    💧 Waterproof and USB Rechargeable

    This clipper is IPX7 waterproof, which means you can rinse it directly under water for cleaning. It charges via USB (super convenient) and runs for about 90 minutes after a 3-hour charge — plenty of time for multiple grooming sessions.

    I love that it’s travel-friendly and doesn’t require special cords or outlets.

    📦 What’s Included

    In the box, you’ll get:

    • The clipper
    • Limit combs for different hair lengths
    • A cleaning brush
    • A USB charging cable

    It’s everything you need to keep your pet looking tidy at home — no groomer appointment needed.

    🐕 Final Thoughts

    If you’re looking for an affordable, quiet, and easy-to-use cordless pet clipper, this one checks all the boxes. It’s perfect for trimming paws, faces, and sensitive areas between full grooms — and gentle enough for first-time users.

    It’s durable, easy to clean, and makes grooming at home stress-free for you and your pet.

    Product Available on Amazon

    🛒 You can check it out on Amazon here:

    ***

    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. 

  • Three Easy Fixes for Messy Pet Food and Water Bowls

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    If you’ve ever stepped in a puddle next to the water bowl or found kibble flung halfway across the kitchen, you know the struggle. Some pets are just messy eaters—whether they splash, drool, knock things over, or think food bowls are toys. It’s frustrating, especially when you’re constantly wiping the floor or picking up soggy crumbs.

    The good news? There are some smart, affordable products that can make mealtime a whole lot cleaner (and save your sanity). Here are three pet-parent-approved solutions  to try:

    Non-Slip, Spill-Proof Mats

    Product Available on Amazon

    A waterproof mat under your pet’s bowls is a game-changer. Look for one with raised edges to catch spills and a non-slip bottom to keep everything in place. It helps contain water splashes and dropped kibble and keeps your floors clean and dry. Bonus: most are super easy to wipe down or toss in the dishwasher.

    Weighted or Non-Tip Bowls

    Product Available on Amazon

    Some pets love to push their bowls around—or accidentally tip them over while eating. A heavy ceramic or stainless steel bowl with a non-skid base can help keep things still. You can also find specially designed “non-tip” bowls that stay firmly in place no matter how excited your pet gets at mealtime.

    Mess-Control Food Bowls

    Product Available on Amazon

    If your dog eats like they’re in a race or your cat bats food out just for fun, a mess-control bowl might be your best bet. These bowls are shaped to reduce spills and slow down enthusiastic eaters. Some are even slightly elevated, which can help with posture and digestion, especially in older pets.

    A few small changes can go a long way in cutting down the daily cleanup and making mealtime more pleasant for everyone—furry and human. Try one of these simple fixes and reclaim your clean floor!

    ***

    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. 

  • Three Tricks to Give Your Dog or Cat a Pill Stress-Free

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    If you’ve ever tried to give your pet a pill, you know it can turn into a full-blown battle. They somehow know it’s medicine before you even open the bottle. Whether it’s spit out, hidden in a pile of drool, or flung across the room mid-chew—getting a pill down can feel like an Olympic sport.

    The good news? There are some seriously helpful products out there that make this daily struggle a whole lot easier. Here are three go-to solutions that can actually help:

    Pill Pockets or Treat Wraps

    Product Available on Amazon

    These are soft, flavorful treats with a built-in space to hide pills. You just pop the pill inside, pinch the treat closed, and hand it over like a normal snack. Most dogs—and many cats—have no idea there’s medicine inside. I’ve had the best luck with Greenies Pill Pockets, but there are plenty of options depending on your pet’s favorite flavors.

    Pill Dispensers (aka “Pill Guns”)

    Product Available on Amazon

    If treats don’t fool your furry friend, a pill dispenser can help. These handy little tools let you place the pill at the back of your pet’s mouth without risking your fingers. They’re especially helpful for cats or dogs who are quick to spit pills out. Just follow up with a treat and a cuddle, and you’re good to go.

    Pill Crushers or Splitters

    Product Available on Amazon

    Some medications can be crushed and mixed into food—but always check with your vet first. If it’s safe, a pill crusher helps you grind the tablet into a fine powder you can stir into wet food or a treat. A pill splitter is also useful if your pet needs a smaller dose and you want clean, accurate halves (without the crumbled mess).

    At the end of the day, the best tool is the one your pet will actually tolerate. Try a few and see what works. With a little trial and error, giving meds can go from a nightmare to no big deal.

    ***

    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. 

  • Collapsible Bowls vs. Travel Water Bottles: What’s Best for On-the-Go Dogs?

    If you’re someone who loves bringing your dog along for hikes, road trips, or even just long park hangs, you already know the importance of keeping them hydrated. But when it comes to packing light, you’ve probably asked yourself: Should I toss in a collapsible bowl or go with one of those all-in-one travel water bottles? Both are solid options—but they work best for slightly different situations.

    Collapsible bowls are the classic go-to. They’re lightweight, super flat when folded, and easy to stuff into a backpack or clip to your leash. Once you’re ready to use it, just pop it open, pour in some water (or food), and you’re good to go. They’re great if you’re already carrying a water bottle for yourself and don’t mind sharing the supply. Plus, they work well for dogs who are picky about how they drink—some pups just prefer a wide, bowl-style drink station.

    Product Available on Amazon

    Travel water bottles, on the other hand, are built for convenience. Most of them are leak-proof and come with a built-in dispenser or mini bowl, so you don’t have to fumble around with two separate items. Just squeeze or click a button, and water flows into the attached tray—super handy when you’re walking one-handed or managing a leash. They’re perfect for short walks, car rides, or keeping in your dog’s go-bag for quick hydration breaks.

    Product Available on Amazon

    So, which is best? If you’re planning longer adventures or need something that can serve up both food and water, a collapsible bowl is probably your best bet. But if you’re more about convenience and quick hydration during shorter outings, a travel water bottle makes life a lot easier.

    Honestly, many people keep both on hand—one for when they are out for hours, and one clipped to their belt (or in their bookbag) for everyday walks. Either way, your dog will appreciate the pit stops—and you’ll avoid that sad, thirsty look they give you when you’ve got nothing to offer. 🐶💧

    ***

    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.

    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. 

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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. 

  • Ways to Care for Your Dog on a Budget

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    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

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    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

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    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!

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    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!

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    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
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    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!
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    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.

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    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.

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

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