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  • 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!

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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 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!

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    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. 

  • Reasons Your Dog Needs Vaccines

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    Vaccinations have become quite controversial in recent years. Increasingly, parents aren’t vaccinating their children, despite their pediatrician’s recommendations. And the whole country is in a state of uncertainty about the new Coronavirus vaccine that has been released. Many are rushing to get protected, while others are simply unsure about it yet.

    This also leads owners to question whether their pets need to be vaccinated. This is even more true with pet owners who have seen a vaccine reaction in their dog. Though it can be a simple puffy face, the truth is that vaccines can sometimes cause a serious problem. Others simply don’t want to worry about vaccinating their dog because they don’t want to spend the extra money.

    However, not vaccinating your dog can be a big mistake. Here are some reasons why your dog should be vaccinated.

    It is the law

    All states require both dogs and cats to be vaccinated against rabies. This disease can be spread to humans, which is why it is the law. In fact, you could find yourself in a lot of legal trouble if your dog hasn’t had a rabies shot.

    You should protect yourself and your entire family

    The truth is that dogs can pass certain diseases onto people. These are called zoonotic diseases.

    Simple vaccinations can help prevent the spread of certain diseases, such as Rabies. Leptospirosis is another such disease. It can cause kidney and liver problems in both dogs and people. To protect yourself and your family, consider vaccinating your dogs.

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    And your dog

    Vaccines were developed to protect dogs from certain diseases that are easily passed from one dog to another. The distemper shot, also known as a DHPP, alone covers Distemper, Hepatitis, Parainfluenza, and Parvovirus.

    Ask any veterinarian that you know, and these diseases have not been commonly seen for the past few years. However, as more people decide not to vaccinate their dogs, we are seeing a rise in various diseases, some of which can be highly infectious. Some are even fatal.

    Vaccines will also protect other dogs.

    While your own family and dog should be the most important to you, the truth is that, by vaccinating your dog, you are helping to protect other dogs too!

    You should think about all the dogs that aren’t healthy enough to be vaccinated, as well as those that aren’t vaccinated for any number of reasons. You wouldn’t want your dog to catch any disease, simply because you didn’t vaccinate him or her.

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    It’s not just about the vaccines

    When you take your dog to the veterinarian for his or her vaccines, you should realize that it is not only about the vaccines. Your veterinarian will conduct a thorough examination to ensure your dog’s health. This is also a good opportunity to identify and address any issues early. It is also much easier to treat problems before they get even worse (and become more expensive to treat).

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    If you are undecided about whether to vaccinate your dog, it is essential to understand the reasons why vaccination is beneficial. You need to protect yourself and your family against diseases that can be spread to you, such as Rabies and Leptospirosis.

    You should also think about your dog. Not only that, but you don’t want him or her to get some diseases, just because you didn’t get him or her vaccinated. It is also essential to consider the examination that accompanies the vaccines. You need to make sure that your dog is as healthy as possible.

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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 get in touch with a veterinary health professional immediately. 

  • Reasons to Spay and Neuter Your Pet

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    When you get a new puppy or kitten, there are a lot of veterinary visits that you may or may not have expected. He or she will need to have vaccines every three to four weeks, until your puppy or kitten is over sixteen weeks of age. If you get him or her later in life, your puppy or kitten will need at least two sets of vaccines in order to be fully protected.

    However, that is not all. Then, when your pet is the proper age, it is time to think about getting him or her fixed. Although you may not want to do this, there are several compelling reasons why you should.

    Here are some reasons why you should spay your cats and dogs.

    Spaying that is completed before a cat or dog has had a heat cycle dramatically reduces their risk of breast tumors. 

    These tumors can be cancerous. In fact, around ninety percent of breast tumors in cats are cancerous, while the number for dogs is closer to forty percent.

    Heat cycles in dogs can be messy, as they often involve a significant amount of bloody discharge. 

    Though many dogs take extra care cleaning up after themselves, the truth is that if you have a dog in heat, you are going to be cleaning up spots of blood throughout your home.

    Cats in heat can exhibit odd behavior, such as howling and rolling around. 

    They are usually very vocal and can completely change their regular behavior. They can go in and out of heat every few weeks, so this can occur often.

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    Spaying prevents a life-threatening disease called a pyometra. 

    This hormonally induced disease of the uterus causes the uterus to fill with infection. The only way to cure this disease is to spay your pet. However, it isn’t ideal because your dog or cat won’t be feeling well to begin with. She will need intravenous fluids and extra care after her procedure to make sure that she makes a full recovery. If not treated (or if you wait too late), it could be deadly.

    Spaying prevents unintended pregnancies. 

    There are too many unwanted animals, and every litter of puppies and kittens just adds to this. It also cuts back on the overpopulation of pets. Too many animals are euthanized daily due to overpopulation. If you want to make sure that you don’t have a surprise pregnancy, you should spay your pet as soon as she is ready for it.

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    Here are some reasons why you should neuter your cats and dogs.

    Dogs that aren’t neutered tend to mark things by urinating on them. 

    This can be trees, bushes, your furniture, and even you!

    Unneutered male cats develop an offensive urine odor. 

    This smell can be quite strong, and your entire home can be overcome by this smell.

    Dogs and cats that aren’t neutered are more likely to fight. 

    Male dogs and cats are typically more aggressive and will fight others.

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    They can even be more aggressive with you. 

    Some dogs can be hard to handle when they are not neutered.

    Unneutered animals are more likely to roam, looking for a female in heat. 

    They are more likely to get lost, as well as get hit by a car, because they are too worried about looking for a female.

    These dogs are at an increased risk for prostate enlargement, prostate inflammation, anal tumors, and testicle tumors. 

    That being said, it doesn’t prevent prostate cancer.

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    The most common reason why people don’t spay or neuter their pet is due to the worry that their pet will gain weight after. However, that is not what causes them to become heavy. In fact, it is overfeeding, as well as a decrease in activity. Many cats and dogs slow down once they are about a year old, which makes them gain weight shortly after they are fixed.

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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. 

  • Signs Of Emergencies in Pets

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    It can be challenging to determine when it’s time to visit the veterinarian. Dogs and cats vomit once in a while, and it isn’t always a big deal. However, there are times when you should rush your pet to the hospital, as they may be facing a serious issue.

    Here are some common signs that may indicate an emergency for your pet.

    • Eye problems
    • Uncontrolled vomiting
    • Diarrhea, especially with blood in it
    • Bloated or swollen abdomen
    • Pain when you touch his or her abdomen
    • Unable to urinate or defecate
    • Loss of balance and struggling to walk
    • Possible broken bones
    • A wound that is bleeding
    • Uncontrolled bleeding
    • Dilated pupils
    • Sudden blindness
    • Unconsciousness
    • Seizures
    • Hit by a car
    • Ate something poisonous or even just something that he or she shouldn’t have
    • Unable to deliver babies

    If your pet is experiencing any of the above issues, be sure to get in touch with your veterinarian as soon as possible. However, that being said, if your veterinarian refers you to the nearest specialist or emergency veterinary hospital, you should listen. Your pet may require more specialized care than your regular veterinarian can provide, such as fluid therapy and overnight monitoring.

    So, what should you do to prepare for any emergencies that you may face? Here are some things to consider before facing a problem that requires immediate medical attention.

    It’s essential to establish a relationship with your veterinarian before any issues arise. 

    A veterinarian will be more likely to see you if you have taken your pets to him or her before. You shouldn’t wait until you desperately need a veterinarian to call around to find one.

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    You also need to know the location of the closest emergency clinic. 

    You don’t want to have to struggle to find a place to take your pet if he or she gets sick on the weekend or in the middle of the night. If your pet starts seizing, you are going to want to have a plan in place for where to go.

    It might also be good to have a muzzle that fits your dog. 

    If your dog becomes painful, he or she may try to bite anyone in the way, so a muzzle may be the safest option for everyone.

    Having the Animal Poison Control Center’s phone number handy could be helpful. 

    If your dog has ingested chocolate or medication, you can call this number to determine the next steps. This being said, you need to know how much your pet weighs and how much he or she ate. It may be a good idea to have the bag nearby when you make the call.

    You also should have some money set aside in case your pet has an emergency. 

    You could be looking at a few hundred to a few thousand dollars, depending on the circumstances. You may want to sign up for Care Credit (as long as your veterinarian and the emergency clinic allow it for payments).

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    It can be truly frightening when your cat or dog experiences a medical emergency. Instead of panicking, you need to have a plan in place. Know what veterinarian to call or emergency clinic to visit, no matter what time of day or night it is.

    You may also want to think about how you can afford an emergency. It may be a good idea to have some spare cash set aside for emergencies. You may also want to consider financing, so that you don’t have to make financial decisions. Find out if your vet and the emergency clinic have Care Credit and get approved before you face a huge bill!

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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. 

  • The Truth About Free Kittens

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    It is the season for kittens. Everyone around you probably has kittens that they found, and they are trying to find them good homes. While some people feel like they need to charge a rehoming fee (to ensure that they find the right home), others are willing to give them away for free.

    However, it is important that you know, just because your kitten is free, doesn’t mean that it is going to stay that way.

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    You are going to need to take your new kitten to the veterinarian to ensure that he or she is healthy. 

    Kittens need to be seen regularly when they are young. They need multiple rounds of vaccines in order to become properly protected. Even if your kitten is going to stay inside, you are going to need to get your kitten a Rabies shot.

    Then, when they are around six months of age, they should be fixed. This may cost you a few hundred dollars, but it is much healthier for them. It will also keep you from having to deal with any unwanted litter.

    Even if you don’t take your kitten to the veterinarian right away, you are going to have to feed your new kitten. 

    You need to make sure that you feed your new kitten high-quality food. That being said, just because it is expensive doesn’t mean that it is good food. There are many foods out there that are rather expensive that aren’t the best food.

    I don’t want to name names, but our clinic recommends Science Diet and Purina ProPlan. These foods have been around for a long time, and studies show they are reliable.

    Science Diet dry kitten food is a good choice, and it is available on Amazon.

    Product available on Amazon

    Another brand that we recommend is Purina Pro plan. It is a higher quality feed than Purina kitten chow.

    Product available on Amazon

    We also recommend that all cats and kittens eat some canned food to help with their urinary tract. We recommend Friskie’s pate style canned food like the one listed on Amazon below.

    Product available on Amazon

    You also need at least one litter pan and a good quality litter. 

    It is even better if you can provide two litter pans. As you get more cats (and probably will), you want to ensure that you always have at least one more litter box than you have cats. If you have six, you need at least seven or eight pans for all of them to use.

    Plus, most people buy some extras for their new kittens. 

    This may include toys and a bed. Some even buy their kittens outfits and other fun things. Cat trees are also popular things that new kitten owners like to buy.

    Amazon and Chewy have many different cat trees, so that you can find one that will fit into your home, no matter what size you are looking for!

    Product available on Amazon

    Free kittens don’t stay free very long. They need to be seen by a veterinarian rather quickly, in order to get make sure that your kitten is properly vaccinated. Even if you don’t plan on letting your kitten outside, you should ensure he or she gets a Rabies shot as soon as possible. You should also plan on spaying or neutering your new kitten when he or she is six months old.

    Veterinary care isn’t the only cost that you may be dealing with. You are going to want to buy the best food that you can so that your new kitten stays as healthy as possible. You also need to buy litter pans so that he or she has a place to go to the bathroom.

    ***

    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. 

  • Why Do Indoor Cats REALLY Need to Be Vaccinated For Rabies?

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    Rabies is a disease that is highly contagious to all mammals. Humans are also susceptible to the disease. Even worse, it is almost one hundred percent fatal, once clinical signs develop.

    Luckily, it is entirely preventable with a simple vaccine you give your cats and dogs. Though you may only think that your dogs and outdoor cats need the vaccine, the truth is that you should vaccinate all of your pets.

    Here are some reasons why you REALLY should vaccinate your indoor cats for Rabies

    It is a deadly disease that is preventable, with a simple vaccine. 

    Why would you want to put your family in danger if all it takes is a vaccine to prevent it? It is much better than losing your family pet or even a family member due to the horrific disease.

    Because it can be deadly, most states require all pets to have a rabies vaccine. 

    It is the law that you need to vaccinate your pet against the disease, even if he or she never goes outside.

    There is no testing for the disease, until it is too late. 

    The only way to test for rabies is by examining the tissue of the brain. This can only be done after the patient has passed away or been euthanized. It can take a few days to get results. In the meantime, other affected humans may have to go through preventive measures to ensure they are safe.

    Though you may think that your cat can’t get exposed to Rabies, the truth is that bats and other wildlife can carry the disease. 

    These can get in the house more often than you think, which makes it dangerous to have a cat that isn’t vaccinated against the disease.

    Want to go even further when it comes to protecting your pet? Here are some things that you can do to keep your pets safe from rabies (and other preventable diseases)!

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    Vaccinate all of your dogs and cats against diseases that they can come in contact with. 

    This includes more than the Rabies vaccine. You should vaccinate dogs for Distemper, Kennel Cough (if they are around a lot of other dogs), Lyme, and Lepto. Cats should be vaccinated against Distemper and Feline Leukemia.

    You also need to keep track of when the vaccines are due. 

    You should do your best to overlap vaccines, so that you don’t let time lag between when the vaccines are due and when you give them.

    Keep cats indoors. 

    Indoor cats live healthier and happier lives. You don’t have to worry about them getting hit by cars, being attacked, or who knows what else can happen when cats roam outside.

    You may want to keep your dogs indoors as much as possible. 

    Dogs deserve to be safe too, so they shouldn’t spend time running around on their own.

    Make sure that rodent and wildlife control is important to you. 

    You may want to work with a pest control company to keep creatures from getting into your home. You should have a cap on top of your chimney and screens on all of your windows.

    Do your best to keep wildlife off your property. 

    Don’t feed stray cats, or you may soon find your yard full of wildlife that you didn’t plan on having!

    If a human or pet is ever bitten, they should wash it right away and seek medical care if needed. 

    If the medical provider is worried about rabies, it is important to contact the health department. Rabies shouldn’t be something that you ignore. You have to act fast!

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    Though you may not want to vaccinate all of your pets against rabies, the truth is that you should. It is for everyone in your family’s protection. You don’t want to lose a family pet (or even someone in your family) because you weren’t careful!

    All it takes is a bat or other wildlife to get into your home, and rabies is possible. That being said, you can’t test for the disease without euthanasia, so you would have to put your pet down to figure out whether or not your whole family needs to be treated preventively!

    Besides vaccines, you also should keep your pets inside as much as possible, so that they are safe. You also need to work hard to keep pests and other wildlife out of your home!

    ***

    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. 

  • We Don’t Want To Talk About Money

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    If you have read any of my other articles, you may have noticed that I have a lot to say about the veterinary world. I work very hard every day to help clients give their pets the best life possible, and it can be upsetting to hear some of the things said about us, especially when it comes to finances.

    Money can be a touchy subject, especially when it comes down to taking care of your pet. You emotionally want to do whatever you can, although you may not have the funds to do so.

    Here are some key considerations to keep in mind regarding finances and veterinary medicine.

    Although we hear it all the time, veterinary medicine is not more expensive than your own healthcare. 

    The truth is that without health insurance, you would be amazed at how much it costs to go to the doctor, let alone spend time in the hospital or have surgery.

    In fact, we should really charge more than we do. 

    Veterinary medicine is a business, and we need to generate sufficient revenue to thrive. We are constantly purchasing medications, in addition to covering our rent (or mortgage) and all the other supplies necessary to keep our office open.

    We are barely getting paid what we are worth. 

    Veterinarians graduate from veterinary school with as much debt as your own doctor, yet we don’t earn as much money as they do. Technicians and receptionists barely make enough to make ends meet. In fact, many of them have to work two or three jobs in order to survive.

    Nobody is in the business of veterinary medicine in order to make money! Please repeat this. We aren’t making as much money as you think.

    Photo Courtesy of Canva

    That being said, we all wish that we could give away everything! 

    When your pets aren’t feeling well, we want to help you as much as possible. However, we simply can’t give everything away.

    If we did this with every patient that walked in the door (or even one or two a day), it would significantly hurt the practice.

    Do not take advantage of your veterinarian’s good graces. 

    For this reason, you should never ask for discounts or see what you can get for free! Too many veterinarians will try to go above and beyond what they should in order to help you as much as possible.

    In fact, please let us know about your financial concerns before we begin. 

    If we know that you have a budget, we will do our best to get as much “bang for your buck.” If we believe that one test is more important than the others (even though you need them all to receive the best diagnosis), we will suggest that one if we know you can only afford to do one.

    If we are considering expensive medications, we may be able to find something more affordable within your price range. We may even have some medications that were donated to us that you may be able to use.

    We also want to assure you that there are no kickbacks for recommending specific food brands.

    We want to ensure that your pet has a good chance of leading a healthy life, so we recommend the brands of food that have shown good results, without the worry of recalls. If we do sell food, we aren’t making a lot of money off of it. We try to pass the savings off to you, so the profit margins on food are pretty slim.

    The same could be said about preventative medicine. 

    We recommend heartworm, flea, and tick preventatives because we have seen the consequences of a patient contracting heartworms or succumbing to a disease transmitted by fleas and ticks. To encourage you to continue purchasing the medication, we maintain a very low profit margin. We just want to ensure that your pet lives a long, healthy life.

    Photo Courtesy of Canva

    Discussing finances can be the most challenging aspect of being in veterinary medicine. We know how tight money is. Most of us live paycheck to paycheck. Some even have to work more than the recommended forty hours a week or take on another job to keep a roof over their head and food on the table.

    For this reason, please don’t comment that we don’t care about your pet and only worry about the money. It is simply not true. If we could afford to give everything away, we would! We barely break even on medications and food. We just want to ensure that they receive the care they deserve.

    Instead, let us know if you have concerns about your finances. It is much better to know how much you have to spend, then figure out how you are going to pay for it after it is all done. We may be able to identify the most important factors that could still help us obtain a decent diagnosis.

    Maybe instead of complaining, you should just thank them. It goes a long way to making us feel better and allows us to keep going.

    ***

    Can’t get enough? You can catch up on the rest of the series right here!

    The original: Things Vet Techs (and Vets) Want Pet Owners To Know

    The second part: More Things Vet Techs (and Vets) Want Pet Owners To Know

    The third part: Even More Things Vet Techs (and Vets) Want Pet Owners To Know

    Followed by: Choose the Right Pet

    The last one: We Don’t Want To Talk About Money

    Want to read the original? Catch up on it right here!

    The original: Things Vet Techs (And Vets) Are Tired of Hearing

    The second part: More Things Vet Techs (And Vets) Are Tired of Hearing

    The third part: Even More Things Vet Techs (And Vets) Are Tired of Hearing

    The last one (I think): Some More Things Vet Techs (And Vets) Are Tired of Hearing

    ***

    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.

  • Choose the Right Pet

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    Veterinary technicians and veterinarians are here to help you have a long and happy life with your pet. However, before you go out and buy the first one you see, we want to ensure that you choose the right one.

    Here are some tips to help you choose the right pet for you and your family.

    Look closely at your lifestyle. 

    If you are busy running from one activity to another, you won’t have time for a dog that needs to spend hours outside running and getting its energy out.

    If you live on a farm, you are probably going to want a dog that wants to be out with you all the time. A smaller dog may get in the way of a tractor, so it might not be the best pet for you. However, if you live in a small apartment, a small dog might have plenty of room to exercise!

    Dogs aren’t the only pets to consider. A cat may be the perfect companion for you. They don’t need much, just food, water, and a clean litter pan. Even if you work outside the home for hours at a time, they would be content until you get home. They are not as social as dogs, so they make great pets for those who are really busy.

    Photo Courtesy of Canva

    You also need to remember that some pets need more grooming than others. 

    Many small-breed dogs and Doodles require regular grooming. Besides visiting the groomer several times a year, they often require regular brushing. You may need to set aside some time every week to keep your furry friend looking nice.

    Long-haired cats are the same way. Although you may not take them to the groomer, you will need to devote some time every week to keep their coats as nice as possible.

    As well as activity. 

    Some dogs will require significantly more exercise than others. Puppies will need to go out multiple times a day, both to use the bathroom and to play. Older dogs may not want to go out as often, so if you aren’t home as much, an older dog may be better for you.

    It is important to know that there is no such thing as a fully hypoallergenic dog or cat. 

    Dogs and cats spread allergy-causing proteins through their saliva and urine. It also sticks to their fur, which may make a fluffy dog or cat the wrong choice for a person with allergies.

    However, there are some breeds that don’t shed as much, though they may still bother someone with allergies. There are also hairless options, though they aren’t very common.

    You also need to ensure that you train your pet, especially dogs. 

    In the veterinary field, we are seeing an increasing number of young adult dogs that are out of control at the veterinarian. COVID kept everyone at home, and they were not able to socialize their dogs properly. They only know the safety of their home and the owner.

    However, there is no excuse for these dogs to be difficult to handle on a leash. You need to play with your new dog’s ears and feet so that he or she will let us clean them and trim the nails.

    Photo Courtesy of Canva

    Before you get your next pet, you need to make sure you choose wisely. You need to look closely at your lifestyle to determine what is the best pet for you. You can’t get a dog that needs to run off plenty of energy when you live in a small apartment and don’t have time for multiple walks a day.

    In fact, a dog might not be your best bet. Instead, you may want to get two cats, so that they can keep each other company while you are living your life! You also need to realize that there is no such thing as a hypoallergenic pet! Though some won’t bother your allergies as much as others, the truth is that all pets have proteins that will cause allergic reactions.

    Once you get a pet, you need to make sure you train it. Too many dogs are out of control at the veterinary office, scared of everything because they have never been exposed to anything (or anyone). You need to ensure that your dog is comfortable walking on a leash and accustomed to being handled, particularly around the ears and feet.

    ***

    Can’t get enough? You can catch up on the rest of the series right here!

    The original: Things Vet Techs (and Vets) Want Pet Owners To Know

    The second part: More Things Vet Techs (and Vets) Want Pet Owners To Know

    The third part: Even More Things Vet Techs (and Vets) Want Pet Owners To Know

    Followed by: Choose the Right Pet

    The last one: We Don’t Want To Talk About Money

    Want to read the original? Catch up on it right here!

    The original: Things Vet Techs (And Vets) Are Tired of Hearing

    The second part: More Things Vet Techs (And Vets) Are Tired of Hearing

    The third part: Even More Things Vet Techs (And Vets) Are Tired of Hearing

    The last one (I think): Some More Things Vet Techs (And Vets) Are Tired of Hearing

    ***

    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.