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Help! I Am Allergic to My Pet

Posted on May 17, 2012 by Family Vet

What would you do if you were allergic to your pet? (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

It is an unfortunate fact that some people are allergic to animals. Cat allergies are the most common and occur twice as often as dog allergies, but allergies to birds and other animals occur too. While many people have animal allergies throughout their life, it is possible for an allergy to develop, which means you could have had a pet for years before developing an allergy to it.

What Causes Allergies?

Allergies are caused by a supersensitive reaction of our immune system. Although normally designed to protect us from dangerous bacteria, viruses, and other harmful foreign agents, our immune system can sometimes get it wrong. When that happens, when our immune system reacts to something that is not harmful, we call it an allergic reaction. People who have pet allergies have an immune system response to the pet’s dander or saliva. The immune systems response determines the extent or severity of the allergy. This is why some people with cat allergies cannot be in the same room with a cat if they want to be able to breathe and others are fine as long as they don’t touch the cat.

What are the Symptoms of a Pet Allergy?

Pet allergies can cause several different kinds of allergic reactions. The most common symptoms affect the nose, skin, respiratory system, and ability to breathe. Generally, these symptoms are the result of some kind of inflammation of the tissue. Common symptoms are:

Sneezing
Nasal Congestion/Runny Nose
Itchy Nose/Itchy Eyes
Coughing
Constant Rubbing of Eyes or Nose
Problems Breathing
Asthma Attacks
Chest Pain
Wheezing
Shortness of Breath
Hives
Itching on the Skin
Rashes

How are Pet Allergies Treated?

Unfortunately for pet lovers who have pet allergies, the best treatment is to avoid any contact with the type of animal that causes the allergy. For people with severe allergies, this can be difficult as pet hair and dander get carried from place to place on clothes, shoes, and bags. You can get a pet that doesn’t cause an allergic reaction which most times is one without fur or feathers like a lizard or a fish. You can also keep your pets, but it is likely you will have to take medication to control your allergic reaction and do specific things around the house to help keep your exposure to a minimum.

Can I Keep My Pet?

This is a personal decision and likely depends on how severe your allergy is and how effective medication is at preventing allergic reactions. If you have a severe allergy that compromises your ability to breathe, you may need to find a new forever home for your pet. If you decide to keep your pet and try to manage your allergy, here are some steps you should take to minimize your risk and discomfort.

Ban the pet from the bedroom. Make sure you have a place to sleep that is pet hair/pet dander free. This means that you need to change into your pajamas in the bedroom and don’t leave the bedroom while wearing them unless you aren’t planning on coming back in.
If you have forced hot air or central air conditioning, install filters over any vents in your bedroom to keep dander from entering the bedroom from other parts of the house.
Swap wall to wall carpet in other rooms for wood or tile floors. Avoid using area rugs if you can help it. Opting for throw rugs that can be washed in the washer is your best bet.
Clean everything, and that means everything. Pet dander is sticky which means it adheres to walls, baseboards, furniture, etc.
Buy a vacuum cleaner with a HEPA filter and wear a dust mask over your nose and mouth whenever you vacuum. If your allergy affects your eyes, you will need some way to protect your eyes while vacuuming as well.
Use an air cleaner with a HEPA filter for 4+ hours a day to help cut down on the pet dander in the air.
Make sure any pet grooming happens by someone else outside the house as this can cause a huge influx of allergy inducing dander into the environment.

Many people with pet allergies can also be pet owners, it just means making the right decisions and taking extra steps to protect your health.

Are You Allergic to Cats? (everydayhealth.com)
Allergies in Cats and Dogs (familyvet.com)
5 Common Pet Care Questions (familyvet.com)

Posted in Pet Owner Tips | Tagged Allergies, Allergy, Asthma, cat, Dander, Health, Human nose, Immune system, Rash, Symptom | Leave a comment

How to Find the Right Dog Park

Posted on May 15, 2012 by Family Vet

Dog parks offer a great opportunity for dogs to socialize, play with other dogs, and for dog owner’s to socialize with other dog owners. Unlike other spaces and places, your dog can run free and it is ok for dogs to be dogs. In order to find the right dog park for your dog, you may need to do a little research. You will want to find a place where you are comfortable with the rules. It is also important to pick a park where your dog fits in. Some dog parks cater to specific kinds of dogs while others are like private clubs and charge a fee for using the park. The key to having a good, positive experience every time you take your dog to the park is taking the time to find the right park for your needs.

Common Dog Park Rules

Your first step is to familiarize yourself with the rules. There are some common rules that many dog parks share, but each park may also have its own set of rules. The purpose of the rules is to ensure the dog park is a safe, healthy environment for all the dogs that go there. Before going to a park, read through the rules to make sure you are comfortable and on board with following them. The rules of the dog park must be followed and should not be confused with etiquette in the dog park, which should be followed, but are not required. Here are some of the most common rules you will find used in many dog parks throughout Arizona.

Dogs must be on leashes unless they are in designated off-leash areas.
Dogs can be off-leash in off-leash areas only if they are under voice control by their owners.
If there are any problems, dog owners must immediately leash their pet and remove it from the off-leash area.
Dog owners must be present the entire time their dog is at the park and must remain in close proximity to and with their attention focused on their pet at all times.
Dogs must be up to date on their shots to interact with other dogs within the park. Many dog parks won’t allow unvaccinated dogs to even enter the park. Dog owners should have a copy of current immunization records with them at the dog park.
Dogs must have current license and rabies tags affixed to their collar to enter the park.
Puppies must be more than four months old to be allowed in the dog park.
Children are not allowed in the dog park. Infants, even if they are being held or carried by an adult are also not allowed in the dog park.
Owners are responsible and liable for the actions of their pets and any resulting consequences.
Dogs that exhibit aggressive behavior are not allowed in the dog park.
Female dogs that are in heat are not allowed in the dog park.
Food, both human and dog varieties, should not be brought into the dog park. Some parks allow small treats to be brought in and used for training purposes.
If the park allows treats, do not give treats to other people’s dogs unless you have the permission of the owner.
No dog toys are allowed in the park
Owners are responsible for cleaning up and disposing of all droppings created by their dog.

When choosing a park for your dog to play at, there are some other things you may want to add to your list of good things for good parks to have. You may want to look or parks that provide separate spaces for small and large dogs. Access to water will likely be another key concern.

Dog Park Do’s and Don’ts (familyvet.com)
Dog Parks Around Arizona (doggoes.com)
Phoenix Dog Parks (phoenix.about.com)

Posted in Fun with Pets | Tagged Arizona, dog, dogpark, Leash, Ownership, pet, Socialization, Your Dog | Leave a comment

May 4th: For the Birds

Posted on May 9, 2012 by Family Vet

Do you know how to properly care for your bird? (photo credit: Wiki images)

In honor of Bird Day, celebrated on May 4^th, let’s talk about the basics of bird ownership, the most common types of pet birds, and what not to feed your bird.

Bird Ownership Basics

Birds differ from cats and dogs in many ways. One primary difference is that different species may need different kinds of food and have different nutritional needs. Ask your veterinarian to determine the kind of food your bird needs and how much/how often to feed it. Birds also need the right kind of habitat which involves humidity and lighting levels, access to sunlight, fresh air, a perch or two, and food/water. Birds need physical activity on a regular basis. Depending on the type of bird and your personal preference, you may be able to allow the bird to fly around inside the home. Talk to your vet about this and other options for physical activity.

Common Types of Birds Kept as Pets

There are many different kinds of birds kept as pets. Here are five of the most common.

1. Parakeets

This is a great choice for new bird owners and children because they are hardy and easier to take care of than bigger birds. They live 12-14 years and love to whistle and sing.

2. Cockatiel

Cockatiels are bigger than parakeets and are native to Australia. They love to sing and whistle as well and are excellent at mimicking interesting sounds. They live from 15 to 20 years.

3. Finches/Canaries

These birds are smaller than most other birds kept as pets which make them great pets for small spaces. They prefer the company of other birds and like living in small flocks. They can live as long as 10 years and because they aren’t that interested in humans they can be the perfect pet for someone who likes birds but isn’t interested in interacting with them much.

4. Lovebirds

This is the smallest of the birds that are considered parrots and can be perfect for someone who likes parrots but doesn’t have space for a larger bird. They are also very quiet and can live up to 20 years.

5. African Greys

These birds are big talkers and boost a big intellectual capacity. This means they are capable of learning a lot of words but also means that they get bored without stimulation which can make them high maintenance pets. They are also a pet for life as they generally live 50 to 70 years.

Things You Should Not Feed Your Bird

Just like with other pets, there are things that we eat that are toxic to birds. Bird owners need to know what foods are hazardous and take steps to ensure their bird is safe. Here are some of the things that are toxic to birds:

Chocolate – people and chocolate are a good fit, pets and chocolate are not. Symptoms of chocolate poisoning are digestive in nature, at least to start, and include vomiting and diarrhea.
Apple Seeds – Apples may keep the doctor away, but apple seeds will not. The seeds of apples and other fruits in the same family like cherries and apricots contain small amounts of cyanide which can make your bird very sick.
Excess Salt – Just like us, birds need salt to live, but too much salt is just as bad for them as it is for us. If a bird gets too much salt it can suffer from dehydration, have kidney problems, and even die.
Avocado – Avoid feeding any part of this vegetable to your bird as it can cause heart problems almost immediately. Don’t forget to keep avocado products away from pets too including the guacamole.
Tomato Leaves – Although tomatoes are good for your bird, the leaves of these plants are definitely not. Ingesting the leaves can be toxic.
Dry Beans – When it comes to beans, the decision to feed them to the bird or not depends on whether they are dry or cooked. Cooked beans can be ok; dry beans are very toxic.
Caffeine – Don’t share any drinks or eats with your bird containing caffeine as it causes significant cardiac problems in birds and can even cause them to have a heart attack.

Poisonous Foods to Birds (birds.about.com)
How Often Does My Pet Need to See The Vet? (familyvet.com)
Caring For Your Pets on a Budget (familyvet.com)

Posted in Pet Owner Tips | Tagged African Grey Parrot, Bird, Bird Day, Parakeet, pet, Piko, Sagamihara, Tokyo | Leave a comment

When Disaster Strikes… And You Have Pets

Posted on May 7, 2012 by Family Vet

Do you have an emergency plan? Image via Wikipedia

Disaster preparedness is everyone’s responsibility and preparing to care for our pets when the worst happens is part of being a responsible pet owner. Disasters, emergencies, and crises can happen at any time and can cause a variety of problems specific to pet owners. Different problems require different solutions which mean your disaster planning needs to include several different scenarios. Knowing what you need to do and having the supplies you need to have on hand before something happens is the best thing you can do for your family and your pets.

Plan Ahead

One of the most important reasons pet owners need to plan ahead is that not all emergency shelters accept pets. You need to research the emergency shelters in your community to determine which, if any, can accept animals if you are required to evacuate your home. If there aren’t any, you will need to locate a hotel or motel that will allow you to bring your pets there if you have to be away from home. You need to know where you will go during an evacuation so that everyone in your family knows the evacuation location and so that you can have enough emergency cash on hand to pay for the necessary accommodations.

Make sure you include everything you will need to care for your pet in your family’s emergency supplies. This is critical for emergencies that require you to evacuate and for those that require you to stay in your home. Your emergency supplies should include food, water, and medication for your pets. You will also want to include a dish for feeding, bedding, and any other supplies like cat litter and a leash needed for your pet.

If You Have to Evacuate

According to the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), you should never leave pets behind if you have to evacuate. Most domestic pets cannot survive on their own and if they do, it is unlikely you will be able to locate them after the emergency has passed. Pack the supplies you need for your pet with your family’s emergency kit and be sure to include a picture of your pet and their vaccination history. Secure your pet in a carrier or on a leash to keep them safe during the evacuation and to help keep them safe and with you at your evacuation location. FEMA also recommends adding information to your pet’s tags indicating the evacuation location so that if you are separated, there is a better chance of your pet finding its way back to you.

One thing that every family should have as part of their emergency preparedness and planning is a packet of important documents like birth certificates and insurance policies. When you have pets, this package should also include the vaccination records for each animal and a list of locations within 250 miles that offer boarding for the type of pets you have. This ensures you can find a safe place for your pet to be cared for if you have to be away from home for an extended period of time.

Pets are part of the family and emergency preparedness plans need to include them. Don’t assume your pet will be able to fend for itself; plan ahead and ensure that every member of your family is safe and secure when disaster strikes.

Emergency Prepare Plan with Animals (fema.gov)
Disaster Preparedness (aspca.org)
What to Do When Disaster Strikes (everydayhealth.com)

Posted in Pet Owner Tips | Tagged Emergency, Emergency evacuation, Emergency management, Family (House), Federal Emergency Management Agency, FEMA, pet, United States | Leave a comment

How Often Does My Pet Need to See the Vet?

Posted on May 3, 2012 by Family Vet

How often do you take your pet to the vet? (Image via Wikipedia)

The primary reason that many pet owners ask this question is because they are unclear about what preventative care or well-animal visits are needed for their pet. The office visit with your vet is the core of any preventative care and well-animal program. In order to monitor changes to your pet’s health over time, recommend vaccinations and preventative health programs, and find any health problems early, your vet needs to see your pet on a regular basis. By the time your pet starts exhibiting symptoms that you notice, a disease may have progressed to the point that the most effective treatment options are no longer available.

Dogs

We recommend that dogs get an annual exam until they are eight years old and then are examined twice a year for the remainder of their life. A preventative care visit will include a physical exam, any necessary vaccinations, and possibly a fecal parasite exam. The following vaccines should be given to dogs every year, parvovirus, distemper, coronavirus, hepatitis, lyme disease, and respiratory disease. Additionally, dogs should have a rabies vaccine every three years. During the visit, your vet can answer any questions you have and offer recommendations on things like proper diet and prevention programs for fleas, ticks, and heartworms.

Cats

We recommend the same schedule for cats as for dogs, an annual exam until they are eight years old and twice a year for the remainder of their life. Preventative care visits for cats will also include a complete physical exam, any necessary vaccinations, and possibly a fecal parasite exam. The following vaccines should be given to cats every year, distemper, rhinotracheitis, calicivirus, pneumonitis, feline leukemia, and rabies. Cats should also receive the vaccine for feline infectious peritonitis according to the schedule recommended by their vet. As part of the exam, the vet will be able to answer any questions you have and make recommendations about proper diet and how to prevent fleas, ticks, and heartworms.

Ferrets

Ferrets should also see the vet annually for a quick check-up and any necessary vaccinations. This visit is considered preventative care and will include the same types of things as visits for cats and dogs. Ferrets are susceptible to some of the same diseases as dogs and cats including distemper, rabies, and heartworm. An annual visit to a ferret-friendly vet can help catch problems early and reinforce the need for adequate preventative measures. Ferrets need to receive vaccines for canine distemper, rabies, and heartworm. It is very important that ferrets receive the canine distemper vaccine as the feline distemper vaccine offers no protection.

Rabbits

Similar to the other pets here, rabbits need an annual visit for a check-up and to get their vaccines. Rabbits need to be vaccinated against myxomatosis and VHD. If your rabbit has any specific health concerns, your vet may recommend more frequent visits. Make sure you find a vet that specializes in and/or is knowledgeable about how to care for rabbits.

The Top 10 Dog Health Problems (everydayhealth.com)
Pet Health Alert: Distemper Cases Up (myfoxphoenix.com)

Posted in Pet Health, Pet Owner Tips | Tagged Canine distemper, Dirofilaria Immitis, Feline panleukopenia, pet, Preventive medicine, vaccination, vaccine, veterinarian | 1 Comment

Dog Park Do’s and Don’ts

Posted on April 30, 2012 by Family Vet

Dogs at park (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

Here in Arizona, there are dog parks aplenty where dog owners can give their dogs time to run and play off the leash and to socialize with other dogs. Dogs of all sizes and breeds can benefit from time at a dog park provided that the park you chose is a good fit for your dog and your dog has a positive experience. Like social gathering spots for people, dog parks have their own set of rules and their own form of etiquette. In order to ensure your dog has the best experience possible, you need to find the right park and help your dog learn the laws of the land.

Dog Park Do’s

1. Before You Go With Your Dog

Talk to your veterinarian about whether or not your dog is healthy enough to spend time socializing with other dogs at a dog park.
Make sure your dog is up to date on their vaccinations.
Visit the dog park without your dog to get a feel for the other dogs that frequent the park, how social and interactive the dog park environment appears to be, and to familiarize yourself with the rules of the park.
Figure out when the busiest times of day are at your chosen park so that you can let your dog experience the park and become accustomed to the social scene when the park is not packed with other patrons.
Talk to the other patrons to get a feel for them and their feelings about the dog park to gauge if this is a park that will work for you as well as your dog.
Watch the other dogs to see if there are any behavior issues and pay attention to how the patrons are interacting with their dogs.

2. While at the Park with Your Dog

Bring a pooper scooper and clean up after your dog.
Pay attention to how your dog is playing with others.
If your dog starts playing rough with another dog, interrupt their play and reinforce good behavior.
Watch your dog to make sure he isn’t being a bully or being bullied by other dogs.
Monitor your dog’s mood and make sure he is having fun.
Be willing to leave if the park isn’t a good fit for your pet, your dog is behaving badly, being bullied, or stops having fun.
Bring lots of water, especially if the dog park doesn’t provide a water source.
Make sure you close the gate when you leave!

Dog Park Don’ts

Don’t bring dogs that are too young. The Association of Pet Dog Trainers recommends that dogs should be at least 4 months old before going to a dog park.
Don’t take your dog to a crowded park if they are overly sensitive. It is best to pick times that the dog park is less crowded if your dog struggles with a big group of other dogs. A good rule of thumb is that a park becomes crowded once it exceeds a ratio of 2 dogs per 20 square yards of space.
Don’t make your dog go to a dog park that they don’t like.
Don’t give your dog treats or let them play with toys if there are other dogs in the park. This can breed conflict across the dogs.
Don’t bring dogs that aren’t spayed or neutered to a dog part.
Don’t take a leashed dog into a dog park. This can cause territorial problems and is one of the primary sources of conflict in many dog parks.
Don’t bring your kids to the dog park. You need to be able to focus on your dog while at the dog park and chasing after a child detracts from your ability to do that.

Dog Park Behavior Know Risks & Rewards (pets.webmd.com)
Dog Park Etiquette (huffingtonpost.com)
Dog Park Etiquette (kswt.com)

Posted in Pet Owner Tips | Tagged Arizona, Association of Pet Dog Trainers, dog, dogpark, Etiquette, Neutering, pet, Recreation | Leave a comment

5 Things Pet Owners Need to Know about Heartworms

Posted on April 26, 2012 by Family Vet

Aedes albopictus - Tiger mosquito (Photo credit: Camponotus Vagus)

April brings the start of heartworm season and pet owners everywhere need to know about the disease, what signs to watch for, and what they need to do to prevent it. Although this disease was originally thought to be a southeastern disease, the American Heartworm Society indicates that the disease can now be found in all 50 states. Pet owners here in Arizona need to meet with their vet to ensure they have the right prevention program in place to protect their pet. To help inform and educate dog, cat, and other pet owners, here are 5 things every pet owner needs to know about heartworms.

1. What is Heartworm Disease?

Heartworm is a parasitic disease caused by Dirofilaria Immitis that affects dogs, cats, ferrets, wolves, coyotes, foxes, beavers, and sea lions. Although each of these animals can contract the disease, it doesn’t always progress or manifest in the same way for each kind of animal. The danger of heartworm disease is that the worms damage vital organs and major blood vessels which can lead to blocked arteries, kidney failure, liver disease, and other complications.

2. How is it Transmitted from One Animal to Another?

Heartworms are transmitted through mosquito bites. This is why the incidence of disease is so much higher in places that have warm, humid weather conducive to breeding mosquitoes. Heartworm is not transmitted through physical contact between animals.

3. What are the Physical Signs of Heartworm Disease?

The symptoms of heartworm disease differ across the different kinds of animals. In dogs, the first sign is often a cough. From there, as the worms multiply and the disease progresses, the dog will experience difficulty breathing, start to avoid exercising, seem lethargic, lose his appetite and experience weight loss.

In cats, the signs of heartworm can seem the same as symptoms for other diseases. Cats may experience difficulty breathing, cough, vomit, faint, have a seizure, become blind, lose their appetite, and lose weight.

4. How is Heartworm Diagnosed and Treated?

Heartworm is diagnosed using a variety of tests. It is easier to diagnose in dogs than it is in cats. For most animals, the diagnosis begins with a physical exam. Veterinarians may use a blood test, called an antigen test, that looks for evidence of a heartworm infection. This test is very successful for diagnosing heartworm in dogs that have been infected for at least seven months, less so for cats. X-rays of the animal can also be used to gauge the severity of the infection as the disease causes changes that can be seen on X-ray early on. Veterinarians can see enlargement of the pulmonary arteries and the right side of the heart, thickening and abnormal twisting of the pulmonary arteries, and inflammation of lung tissue which are all signs of heartworm disease. X-rays are often the most useful test for detecting feline heartworm disease.

There are no effective treatment options for heartworm disease in cats. Treatment for cats is focused on treating the symptoms of the damage caused by the heartworm infestation like providing breathing support, the use of steroids, and in some cases surgery to remove the worms. Cats are more resistant to heartworm infection and are generally more successful at curing themselves of the disease. However, since there is no way to treat heartworm disease in cats, preventative measures are critical for all cat owners to follow.

Most cases of heartworm disease in dogs can be successfully treated. The primary goal in canine treatment is to kill off the adult worms and all the microfiliariae, or larvae. Both cats and dogs can experience complications caused by the death of adult heartworms and may need supportive therapies and treatment during this phase.

5. Can Heartworm Disease be Prevented?

Heartworm disease can be prevented in all pets by following the heartworm prevention program recommended by your veterinarian.

Heartworm Infection is a Nation-Wide Threat to Pets [Infographic] (prweb.com)
Does Your Cat Need Protection From This Parasite? (huffingtonpost.com)
The Top 10 Dog Health Problems (everydayhealth.com)

Posted in Caring for Your Dog, Pet Health | Tagged Arizona, Dirofilaria Immitis, Disease, dog, Mosquito, Parasitic disease, pet, veterinarian | Leave a comment

How to Stop Your Barking Dog

Posted on April 18, 2012 by Family Vet

Dog Whisperer, Cesar Millan (Image credit: Getty Images via @daylife)

Dogs bark. It is their natural form of expression and the major way they communicate with us and with other animals. They bark to alert us, they bark when they need something, they bark when they are excited, and they bark when they are frightened. But sometimes, all that barking goes beyond normal dog communication and becomes excessive. Depending on where you live, a dog that barks too much can cause problems with neighbors and lead to nuisance and noise complaints to the police. But more importantly, excessive barking can impact the relationship between you and your dog.

Why is He Barking?

If you feel like your dog’s barking has crossed the line from normal to nuisance, the first step is to identify why he is barking. According to the ASPCA (American Society for the Protection and Care of Animals), animal behaviorists have identified some common types of barking:

Territorial – a response to someone or some animal venturing toward the dog’s territory
Alarm – an alert to others that something out of the ordinary is happening, usually a sight or smell
Attention –a way of getting attention
Greeting – a way of saying hello
Compulsive –extremely repetitive and consistent
Social –in response to the barking of other dogs
Frustrated – when they are prevented from doing something
Separation – the result of separation anxiety
Medical – due to illness or injury

Pay attention to when your dog is barking excessively and see if you can identify the trigger based on the list above. There may be more than one trigger and your dog may be barking for more than one reason, but determining what factors are causing him to bark excessively will help you figure out how to help him stop barking unnecessarily.

If the nuisance barking is a new behavior, it may be a good idea to take him into the vet for a check-up. The vet can check to make sure there is no medical reason for the barking and may be able to help you identify the source of the barking.

What Can You Do?

Once you have identified why your dog is barking excessively, you can take steps to eliminate or reduce their exposure to what is triggering the barking. Here are some tips from the experts.

1. Territorial/Alarm Barking

If you believe your dog is barking excessively in response to territorial issues or to alert you, the ASPCA recommends blocking your dog’s access to the external triggers that cause him to bark. For example, if your dog barks incessantly every afternoon when the kids get out of school and walk by your yard, make an effort to bring him in or take him for a walk during that time frame.

2. Greeters

If you determine that your dog is just really happy to see you and anyone else that comes to your house, you can divert his attention with toys upon entering.

3. Attention Seekers

If you feel your dog is barking in order to get attention, you need to do two things. First, look at how much time you are spending with him and how much attention you are giving him when he isn’t barking. He may be barking for attention because he isn’t getting what he needs. Second, don’t reward the barking with attention. By ignoring him when he is barking and increasing the positive attention you give him when he is not barking, you are making sure he is getting the attention he needs while quelling the nuisance barking.

Cesar Milan, the dog whisperer, says you must assert yourself as the pack leader and use your presence to calm and control your dog and get him to stop barking. All the experts do agree that punishment isn’t an effective way to curb nuisance barking.

Why Does My Dog Bark So Much (aspcs.org)
5 Tips for Handling Nuisance Barking (cesarsway.com)
How To Stop Barking (humanesociety.org)

Posted in Dog Behavior, Pet Owner Tips | Tagged Animal, Attention seeking, Bark, Barking: The Sound of a Language (Dogwise Training Manual), dog, pet, Recreation, Shock collar | Leave a comment

7 Mistakes You Might Be Making With Your Pets

Posted on April 16, 2012 by Family Vet

Make sure you avoid these common mistakes with your pet. (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

Even the most conscientious pet owners can make mistakes. Sometimes we think what we are doing is the right thing and sometimes we just don’t understand the consequences of our seemingly benign actions. Here are 7 of the most common mistakes we make with our pets and how we can all be better pet parents.

1. Failing to Build a Relationship with Your Vet

There is a reason that you go to your doctor for check-ups and regular appointments. By establishing a relationship with your doctor when you are well, you are providing your doctor with your history and a baseline from which to gauge any future changes or problems. It is the same way for your pets. If you wait until your pet is ill or injured to seek out a vet, you are starting from scratch.

2. Not Having Them Spayed or Neutered

Some pet owners still think that getting their pet spayed or neutered is unkind or unhealthy for them, but according to the Arizona Humane Society, it actually helps them live longer happier lives.

3. Failing to Take Care of Their Teeth

Most dogs and cats will have some form of dental disease during their lifetime which should concern every pet owner because of the possible consequences. While oral disease can cause damage your pets’ gums and result in tooth loss, it can also cause serious life threatening damage to other parts of their body if left unchecked. Talk to your vet about what you can do to take care of your pet’s teeth at home.

4. Not Feeding Them Properly

Everyone knows that it is important to eat a healthy diet and the same is true for your pets. Pet owners who don’t consider what kind of food they are feeding their pets or how much food they are giving them risk endangering their pets health. Check with your vet to find out what you should look for in a pet food and how much food your pet needs.

5. Failing to Make Exercise a Priority

Your pet needs space and time to participate in the type and frequency of exercise that is appropriate for them. Make sure you are enabling your pet to be active and help them live a healthier life.

6. Not Protecting Them from Parasites

Parasite protection is a necessary evil for all pet owners. The parasites your pet needs to be protected from will depend on your pet and you need to work with your vet to determine what protection they need and how best to provide them that protection. Remember, parasite protection is a year-round need.

7. Failing to Remember that Your Pet is Not a Furry Person

Pets have their own personalities and we can definitely come to love them like a member of our family, but they are still animals. Pets don’t think like we do and when they do things we don’t like it is not because they have some secret motive. Pet owners who ascribe human motives to their pet’s behavior are doing them both a disservice. Treat your pet like the cherished member of the family they are, just remember that their fur isn’t a fashion statement.

Pet FAQ’s (familyvet.com)
Most Common Mistakes Pet Owners Make (today.msnbc.nbc.com)
Uh-Oh Mistakes New Pet Owners Make (today.msnbc.msn.com)

Posted in Caring for Your Dog, Pet Owner Tips | Tagged Health, Health care, Humane Society, Neuter, Ownership, pet, pet food, veterinarian | Leave a comment

9 Interesting Facts About Cats

Posted on November 22, 2011 by Family Vet

If you have a cat, then you probably know the basics. But, did you know that cats have some really interesting and unique characteristics? Here are some of the things that you may not already know about your cat:

Learn more about your cat

1 – Cats have an uncanny ability to interpret their owner’s mood. This means that if you are happy, they can sense it. They can also sense if you are under a lot of stress or if you are sad. This can sometimes affect their behaviors. Pay attention to the way that your cat acts and see if you notice and behavioral changes when your moods change. Chances are, you will and you have just never paid much attention to it in the past.

2 – Cats have more bones in their bodies than humans do! They actually have 290 bones, which is much more than the human. Humans only have 206 bones. Cats also have a total of 517 muscles in their body.

3 – Cats don’t ALWAYS land on their feet as most people believe that they do. However, when they are falling, they will usually position themselves in such a way that they will break their fall and land on their feet. They do this by rotating their head, twisting their spine, and aligning their rear legs.

4 – Cats do not like the scent of citrus fruits. Therefore, if you want to keep your cat from scratching up your furniture or curtains, simply get a citrus scented air freshener spray and spray the furniture and the curtains. This will likely keep them away. You can also use this method to keep them out of your Christmas tree during the holiday season.

5 – A cat’s vision is very different from that of a dog. While dogs do not see in color, cats can. However, they are usually partially color blind. They may also not be able to see details very well, but they can see from over a hundred feet away!

6 – Most cats sleep an awful lot! In fact, the average cat will spend about sixteen hours a day sleeping. They are more active at night, which means they may sleep most of the day away. While they are awake, they spend a lot of their time grooming themselves. Is it because they are conceited or they just care about their hygiene?

7 – Can’t tell the sex of your kitten? If it is a calico cat, you can bet your bottom dollar that it is a female cat. This is because calico cats are usually female. It is very rare to find a male calico cat, but there are some out there.

8 – Cats can wag their tails, much like dogs. This is usually a sign of some sort of conflict. Cats may want to do two things at one time and there are certain things that keep them from doing one or the other. If they are conflicted, they may wag their tails. As soon as they make their choice, their tail will stop wagging.

9 – A cat’s nose pad is ridged, and it is unique from any other cat in the world. This is much like a human fingerprint.

As you can see, there are definitely some very interesting facts about cats. The more you get to know your cat, the more you will find that they have unique and interesting characteristics. Spend time with your cat, and show them affection. They will definitely appreciate it, and they will return the affection. Cats can be a real joy, but they are definitely unique from any other animal.

Posted in Cat Facts | Tagged bones, cat, cat sleep, cat vision, cats, Glendale Animal Hospital, land on feet, smell | Leave a comment

Ask the Vet: How Do I Get Rid of My Dog’s Fleas?

Posted on November 22, 2011 by Family Vet

A flea bath will kill any fleas on your pet

Dear Family Vet:

I’ve been keeping my sister’s dog for her this week while she went on vacation out of the country. I have two dogs and two cats of my own. I noticed that her dog had been scratching and biting at her skin and had even rubbed a raw spot on her back. When I took a closer look, I saw that she had fleas. Our dogs have never had any fleas before, but now all of the pets in our home are covered in them.

What can I do to treat them for their fleas and prevent it from becoming an issue in the future? Thanks in advance!

Sincerely,

Distressed in Phoenix

Dear Distressed,

I understand that fleas and ticks can definitely be a stressful issue to deal with. Fortunately, there are several ways that you can go about treating this problem and preventing it from coming about again in the future. First, take a look at how to get rid of the fleas because they can lead to more serious issues and skin irritation if you do not address it as soon as possible.

Treatment of Fleas

Here are a few of the most common treatments for fleas:

Medications provided by the veterinary clinic
Flea bath products
Topical flea treatments

I would highly recommend that you stop by the clinic and let us treat your pets for their fleas. We can give them oral medications that will kill all of the fleas. There are some that work for a short term and there are others that will keep the fleas gone for up to a month. It is definitely recommended that you seek long term treatment for the pets to prevent any fleas from recurring in the future.

We can also bathe them in a special medicated shampoo that will help to ease the irritation that the fleas have caused to their skin. When it comes to your cats, as long as they are over 8 weeks old you will be able to give them oral treatments. If they are younger than 8 weeks old, you may want to use a topical treatment instead.

Prevention of Fleas

Now that you know how to handle the current flea problem, you will want to prevent them from coming back in the future. The truth is that the pets have likely spread the fleas throughout your home. You may want to consider fogging the home to kill any of the fleas that are living in the house. Also, wash all of your pet’s bedding and toys. When you are fogging the home, it is important to read the back of the can and follow the instructions precisely. For safety, you must remove everyone, including your pets, from the home for about two hours. When you return, it is a good idea to open up the windows to let the house ventilate and rid the home of fumes from the fogger.

As you are probably aware, fleas can really pose a great threat to your pet. It is really important that you catch the issue quickly so that you can prevent it from causing any long term illness to your pets. Fleas can carry a variety of different diseases and they can also cause skin irritation, rash, lesions and other issues. The good news is that you caught it early, and you will be able to effectively handle the situation before it becomes a bigger problem.

Thank you for your questions and I wish you all the best in getting rid of your flea problem and keeping them away for good.

Family Vet

Posted in Caring for Your Dog, Dog Problems, Fleas and Ticks | Tagged cat, cats, diseases, dog, dogs, flea bath, flea bomb, flea treatments, fleas, pet, scratching, ticks | Leave a comment

Caring For Your Pets on a Budget

Posted on November 28, 2011 by Family Vet

It is really important to focus on ways that you can save, but still provide your pets with everything that they need to be healthy. When you are dealing with a budget crunch, you will probably want to learn about ways that you can cut back your spending in every area- including the costs of caring for your pet. Here are some tips that will help you to take proper care of your pets while adhering to your budget.

Do you need to put your pet on a budget?

During times of economic downturn, it may prove to be stressful to keep up with the costs associated with taking care of your pet.

Try At Home Grooming

Many times, you can take care of your pet’s grooming from the comforts of your own home. It is important to brush them on a regular basis. This can not only help to keep their fur in great condition, but it is also quality time spent with your pet. When you brush them, you are able to improve the health of their fur as well as their skin. You can also bathe them at home, which will likely save you a great deal of money. Skip out on taking them to the groomer once a month, and instead start grooming them yourself. This will cut back on your costs drastically.

Shop Thrifty

When you are shopping for toys and treats for your pet, you will definitely want to try to shop smart. You can look for great deals by purchasing your products at a discount pet supply store. You can buy online, which can also help you to save a great deal of money. Instead of buying things impulsively, try to watch what you are spending your money on. After all, you can get a lot of stuff for less if you shop around.

Don’t Over Feed Your Pets

When it comes to feeding your pets, you can really save a lot by not over feeding them. Did you know that most pet owners feed their pets much more than they actually need? Some people even buy the cheapest brand of food possible, which can often bring on health problems in the future. You should buy your pets quality pet food that includes all of the essential nutrients that they need in order to stay healthy. This will help to reduce your costs in the long run by keeping them well and allowing you to steer clear of frequent vet visits.

Treat Against Fleas and Ticks

When your money is tight, you may want to just skip out on flea and tick prevention. However, leaving fleas and ticks untreated can lead to really harmful sicknesses down the road. You should always make sure that you are taking proper care of them by getting rid of all fleas and ticks and also focusing on ways to prevent them. While the prevention will cost you some money up front, it will save you money in the long run.

As you can see, there are some great ways to take proper care of your pets while still sticking to your budget. Make sure that you include your pet’s needs in your monthly budget. You should always make sure that you have them seen regularly at the vet to catch thins before they become a bigger problem. In Arizona, you can visit Dr. Day for all of your pet’s veterinary needs. And remember, you don’t have to spend a fortune taking care of your pets. After all, the most important thing that they need is your love and affection.

Posted in Caring for Your Cat, Caring for Your Dog, Pet Costs | Tagged Dog grooming, Flea, fleas, Glendale Animal Clinic, grooming, Health, pet budget, pet costs, pet food, pet toys, ticks | Leave a comment

Ask the Vet: Help, How Can I Get My Dog to Stop Marking Indoors?

Posted on November 29, 2011 by Family Vet

Dear Family Vet:

How do I get my dog to stop marking in my house? Image by Bolobilly via Flickr

I have a problem with my dog and I was hoping that you would be able to help me with it. My husband and I rescued a dog from the side of the road a couple of years back. He is about 8-10 years old, and he is an Alaskan Eskimo mix. He has really brought a lot of joy to our family, but the problem is that he marks his territory everywhere- even in the house! When we first brought him home, we planned to have him neutered, but he was ill with tick fever and he had to have several rounds of treatment. We have just never taken him to get it done since.

Reading up on this issue, I have found that a lot of people say that getting him neutered won’t really help keep him from marking indoors now that he is older. However, we do have another dog in the house. She is a female and has been spayed. We have never had any issues with her marking indoors. While he mainly marks his territory around his food dish, he has also done it other places around the house. I don’t want to give up home on him, but I am at my wits end. Please help me!

How can I help this dog to stop marking indoors?

Sincerely,

Hopeless in Avondale

Dear Hopeless in Avondale,

I can surely help you with this concern. I know that it can be very frustrating when you have a pet that simply does not understand. Here are a few things that you should know about marking indoors:

First, you will want to gain a better understanding of WHY dogs mark indoors. Dogs are very territorial. Usually, they gather much of their information by using the sense of smell. When a dog is brought into a new home, they may mark certain places around the house so that it smells like home to them. When it comes to mating, they may also mark territory to let other dogs find them easily. This is where spaying and neutering comes in. While it is true that having it done early is best, because this prevents them from ever getting into the habit of marking, it does not mean that doing it later won’t help.

Another thing that you should know is that sometimes marking indoors may mean that they have some sort of a urinary tract infection. If this has been going on the past year, then that is probably not the issue. Be sure that have him checked out by a veterinarian to rule this out.

Now, here are a few things that you may want to consider:

Have him neutered. This can help if it is a result of a behavioral issue. It can also help in a lot of other ways as well.

Try to supervise him as much as possible and correct him when you catch him in the act. When you are away, you may want to consider keeping him in a crate. Dogs will usually never mark where they sleep.

Eliminate the odors in the places that he has marked previously. If you do not get rid of these odors, then you may find that he continues to mark in those same places. You should use a cleaner that will completely abolish the odor so that he will not be tempted to continue marking there.

These are some great tips when it comes to preventing your pup from marking indoors, and I hope that you find success with it!

Family Vet

Posted in Dog Behavior, Dog Problems, Marking Indoors | Tagged Animal, dog, Health, House, Neutering, pet, Recreation, Territory (animal) | Leave a comment

Top 6 Reasons to Spay or Neuter Your Pet

Posted on December 14, 2011 by Family Vet

Most veterinarians will agree that spaying and neutering is a vital part of their health. If you are on the fence, then you may want to consider looking for a few of the top reasons to help you make up your mind. Here you will find the top 6 reasons that you should go ahead and spay or neuter your pet.

Have you had your pet spayed or neutered?

When it comes to your pet’s health, you will definitely want to do everything that you can to keep them in great health.

1. It Will Help To Relieve Stress

First of all, your veterinarian will tell you that it will help to calm your pet down. Pets can undergo a lot of physiological stress from time to time and spaying and neutering can help keep this from happening as much. You should definitely consider this when you are wondering whether or not it is the right decision.

2. Reduces the Risk Your Pet Will Get Cancer

Whether you want to believe it or not, it has been proven that spaying and neutering will help to cut down on the risk of cancer. There are certain types of cancer that can really decrease the quality of your pet’s life while also reducing their lifespan. Generally, for female pets, mammary cancer, ovarian cancer, and uterine cancer are the biggest culprits. Try to minimize this risk as much as you can.

3. Helps to Prevent A Urinary Tract Infection

Pets, especially cats, are highly susceptible to urinary tract infections. This can really be detrimental to their health if you do not catch it quickly. It can even be fatal at times. By having your pet spayed or neutered, you are able to help cut back their risk of developing a urinary tract infection.

4. Stops Female Dog Menstruation

Female dogs will generally menstruate once every six months. This can sometimes be frustrating, as it causes them to leave stains around your home. Unless you are dedicated to making them wear the puppy diapers while they are menstruating, it can prove to be a really big mess. The good news is that you can have them fixed, and you will no longer have to worry about this being an issue.

5. Improves Behavior

If you have a pet that misbehaves a lot, then you may find that having them spayed or neutered helps to fix that issue a bit. For example, males tend to roam, howl, bark and mark indoors. When an animal has been spayed or neutered, these behaviors generally stop.

6. Prevents Overpopulation

Overpopulation has become a huge issue with pets. When you don’t have them spayed or neutered, you will often times find yourself with a pregnant dog or cat and then you have to find homes for all of the puppies or kittens. This can be stressful at times and every pet deserves a loving home.

The Bottom Line

As you can see, having your pet spayed or neutered can really be helpful. Some people feel that it will cause them a lot of unnecessary pain. When you think about it, it is a great option. It is a surgical procedure that they bounce back from very quickly. Make sure that you consider all of the advantages.

If you decide that you would like to have your pet spayed or neutered, or if you just have any other questions about it, then you should contact Dr. Day to learn more.

Posted in Spay or Neuter | Tagged cat, dog, Neutering, spay, spayed | Leave a comment

Traveling Safely With Your Pets During the Holidays

Posted on December 19, 2011 by Family Vet

Do your holiday travel plans include taking your pet?

First of all, you will want to make sure that you have identification for your pet. You need to get them an ID tag that has your contact information just in case they were to get loose in a city that they are unfamiliar with. Also, some people may consider getting the identification microchips for their pets. These can be a great way to make sure that you can always locate your pet if they get away from you.

Next, you will want to consider how they will be traveling. It is never a good idea to have the pet run free in the vehicle. If you are driving, you want to make sure that you keep them in a pet carrier until you get to your destination. This will ensure that you are able to drive safely and keep them safe at the same time. If you are flying, then you need to make sure that you follow all rules and regulations set forth by the airlines.

You will also want to make sure that you are not leaving them in the car alone. This is especially true if the weather conditions are harsh. During the holiday months, it is definitely cold in many areas. This can really not be great on your pets. Make sure that you have fresh water for them to drink, food to eat, and food and water bowls to use when you make stops. Stop often, as they will likely need to get out of the crate and walk around and be able to do their business outside as well.

When you get to where you are going, you want to make sure that you are choosing a hotel that is pet friendly. This is very important. If your pet is going to be vacationing with you, then you must know ahead of time if they allow pets. This is something that you have to do your research on ahead of time.

You also need to try to keep them on their regular schedule. This helps to keep their normalcy. If they have a regular schedule, then you want to make sure that you follow it as closely as you can. While it is almost impossible to continue the exact same schedule, you will find that it is much easier on them if you try to stick to it as best as you can.

As you can see, there are a few things that you should do when traveling with your pet. Ensure their safety above all else, and make sure that they have a happy vacation as well.

Posted in Tips | Tagged cat, dog, flying with pet, holiday travel, hotel, traveling with pets | Leave a comment

Top 10 Reasons Sleeping With Your Pet is a Bad Idea

Posted on January 3, 2012 by Family Vet

How does sleeping with your pet affect you?

Does your pet sleep with you? Many pet lovers choose to share their beds with their pets. At first this may seem like a great idea, but there are several reasons why it may not be. While our pets are our close friends and even considered family members, allowing them to sleep in the bed with you can lead to issues that you should not have to deal with. Some of them are minor, but some of them can be a little more serious than you think.

One of the main reasons that you should avoid having pets sleep in the bed with you is because they can cause you to have an allergic reaction. If you are allergic to pet dander then you are susceptible to this. Allergies can range from mild sniffles to severe reactions depending on the severity of the case.

If you have asthma, this is another reason to avoid sleeping with your pet. Sometimes pets can trigger an asthma attack. If this happens while you are sleeping it can be potentially dangerous. Asthma can be dangerous under the right conditions so it is important to take precautions whenever possible.

Another good reason to avoid letting your pet sleep with you is that it can create a power struggle. You are the dog’s master, but when he is allowed to sleep with you he may forget his place and become unresponsive to commands. It is important for a dog’s owner to maintain that they are the leader of the pack and the dog is subservient to him.

Sleeping with your pet can also prevent you from getting the rest that you need each night. This is particularly true if you have a needy dog that feels like they should be laying on you at all times or one who gets up and moves around a lot at night.

If you are married and share your bed with your pet then you could be asking for even more trouble. Often times the pet will wish to lie in between the couple. This can prevent the closeness that is needed to have a successful relationship.

Remember that our pets, as much as we love them, can also carry bacteria and other organisms that can make you sick. Cats in particular are known carriers of ringworm. If you sleep with your cat, the chances are that you may end up with it yourself. There are also other diseases. Cat scratch fever can be particularly damaging to the body. Chances are slim but you could also end up getting something like the plague. There is actually a documented case of a boy who got it from sleeping with his cat.

Finally there are other cleanliness issues. Dogs aren’t particular about keeping clean. They may track muddy or dirty feet in your bed and shed everywhere. While this doesn’t sound particularly bad, it can really add to the amount of time that you have to spend washing your sheets and comforters.

The next time you consider having your pet in the bed with you, take the time to consider these things. If you really want to have a healthy relationship with your pet, it is best that you get them their own bed or kennel to keep them in at night.

Posted in Pet Owner Tips | Tagged cat, dog, Glendale Animal Hospital, Health, pets, sharing bed, sleep, sleeping with pet | Leave a comment

The Oddest Mixed Breeds Around

Posted on January 31, 2012 by Family Vet

Everyone has seen the common mixed breeds, like the Pekepoo, Chi-poo, and the Yorkipoo, but what about those that you don’t see as often? Any time two distinct breeds mate, you get a mixed breed with unique characteristics that can vary widely, even within the litter of puppies themselves. We wanted to have a little fun and talk a bit about some of the more unique types of mixed breed pups we’ve found. It’s important to understand that mixed breed puppies need just as much love and affection as full bred pups! Here you will find some of the funniest looking mixed breeds out there.

You will find some of the strangest breeds out there if you just take the time to look for them. You will sometimes find some that look just plain funny, while others may not even seem real! Sometimes, you stop to ask yourself how they even managed to breed in the first place!

Here are a few of the mix breed puppies that people have found to be fascinating, and funny looking at the same time!

Siborgi

Have you ever seen a Siborgi?

This is a mix between a Siberian Husky and a Corgi. As you can see, they definitely have distinctive traits of both breeds, which make them an interesting breed for sure! Their markings can vary, depending on the dominance of the genes that make up the mother and father. However, they will all have some characteristics that define both breeds.

Dachsador

Dachsador mixed breed. Image via Flickr

This is a mix between a Dachshund and a Labrador Retriever. The resemblance of both breeds makes you giggle just a bit! It’s not very common that you see a mix like this, but they are definitely out there! They are very loving, just as most Labrador Retrievers are, but they are as cute as can be with their short stubby legs- which is characteristic if the Dachshund.

Chug

Have you come across a Chug? image via Flickr

For those that like a smaller breed, then a Chug may be just the choice for you! They have characteristics of both a Chihuahua and a Pug! Their name is just about as funny sounding as they are funny looking! With squished little faces and cute little tails, how can you possibly resist them?

Schnoodle

Consider the hypoallergenic Schnoodle

A Schnoodle is a mix between a Poodle and a Schnauzer. Many people love this mixed breed because they are considered to be hyperallergenic. They are also known for being easily trained- which makes them an ideal pup for many families. This is not to mention the fact that they are as cute as they can be, even if they are a bit funny looking!

Pomapoo

Pomapoo puppy. Image via Flickr

This one is just really funny looking, but how can you resist that face? It almost does not even look like a real dog! A pomapoo is a mix between a Pomeranian and a Poodle. As you can see, they definitely have the characteristics of both breeds. They are also a whole lot of fun!

As you can see, there are mixed breeds out there of all kinds. You can read more here if you are interested in finding more unique cross-breeds of dogs. You can check out a long list of various mixed breed puppies. You may be surprised at what you will find there. Whether you choose a full-bred pup or a mixed breed, you must always remember to show them all the love and affection that you possibly can. Also remember to have them see a veterinarian regularly to stay up to date on vaccines and ensure they are healthy.

Posted in Breeds | Tagged breed, Chihuahua, Corgi, dog, genes, Labrador Retriever, mixed breed, pomeranian, poodle, pug, puppy, schnauzer, Siberian Husky | Leave a comment

6 Pet Tricks to Teach Your Pet

Posted on February 2, 2012 by Family Vet

What tricks does your dog know how to do? Image via Flickr

There are many different pet tricks out there. Try to see if your pup can do any of these tricks on command! While most people are aware of common commands such as sit, stay and roll over- there are some that you may not consider while training your pet. Some of these are taught by the best dog trainers, and you may find it difficult to teach your pup to do these things. But, it’s worth a shot!

1. Bare Teeth

This one is definitely fun! Sometimes, dogs will show their teeth on command. This one provides hours of fun and enjoyment among family and friends. They will be amazed that your pup will do this, and they may even try to get their dogs to do it as well!

2. Cover Eyes

Sometimes, you can get your dog to cover their eyes on command. They will likely put their head down close to the floor and use their front paws to cover up their eyes. It definitely makes for cute pictures! To get started with this one, you may have to act it out yourself and let them see what you are talking about. Then, have them try it for themselves.

3. Walk

This one is fairly simple. Teach your pup to walk on command by holding a treat up high enough that they have to stand on their back paws to reach it. Then, slowly walk backward getting them to walk to the treat. As they get better at it, you can simply stand from across the room and command them to walk to you. They should follow through with no trouble.

4. Give You Five

This is a classic trick that most pet owners like to teach their pups. You can start early with this one. Simply ask them to give you five and at first you may have to give them a bit of a nudge to get them to understand what you are talking about. It usually does not take them very long for them to catch on to this one and before long, they then can do it on command with no problem.

5. Balance a Treat or Toy on Their Nose

You can teach your pup to balance a treat carefully on their nose, then have them toss it up with a flip of their head and catch it in their mouth when it falls back down. This one is a bit more difficult than the average trick, but it is definitely one that will have people in awe!

6. Riding a Skateboard

You didn’t know that some dogs could do this, did you? Well, if you have a skateboard lying around the house then you may want to see if your dog can take to it. Sometimes, it is easy for them to get the hang of it while other dogs may have some difficulty. If they enjoy playing with it, then you may want to see if they can actually ride it. It can definitely be fun for both of you!

Don’t get discouraged if you cannot get your pup to do these tricks. Start out with the easiest commands, and then work your way up to more difficult ones! The more they learn, the more they will be willing to learn. Always reward them for a job well done when you are teaching them- but make sure that the treats that you give them are healthy for them!

Posted in Dog Behavior, Tips | Tagged command, dog training, pet tricks, training, tricks | Leave a comment

Pets Who Look Like their Owners

Posted on February 6, 2012 by Family Vet

Since dogs are like man’s best friend (or woman’s best friend), is it possible for them to resemble their owners? Some people swear that this is the truth! There have been multiple studies conducted in an attempt to better understand if this is in fact true or not. One study at the University of California, San Diego, tested to see if this theory is, in fact, a true statement or not. Well, the conclusion was that the results of the test were really debatable; however, in many cases people were able to correctly match a dog with their owner. While it does not always work out that way, many of the studies have shown that over half of the pictures were correctly matched.

In these studies, it shows that the purebred dogs were much easier to match to their owners than the mixed breed. How does this relate to the study at hand? Well, that has really not been determined yet- although it is still being researched and analyzed. Do you think it is ridiculous to study such a thing? The researchers that took part in these studies did not think so!

It is safe to say that many of the characteristics and personality traits of owners are seen in their pets, but the physical resemblance is not always seen. How many times have you seen a dog that acted JUST LIKE it’s owner? This is because dogs pick up on a lot of the things that their owners do, and they sometimes act the same way.

Why is it that some pets look much like their owners? Is it because people tend to choose pets that resemble them? Is it something that just happens naturally? Well, while studies are continuously being conducted and some suggest that when people choose a pet, they seek one that, at some level, resembles them, the answer is still not completely obvious.

Here are a few pictures of pets that look much like someone in their family. Sometimes, the resemblance has a lot to do with a similar pose, or similar hair color. This is most commonly seen in the pictures below.

Girl and Her Dog

In this one, the blonde hair on the little girl matches closely to the blonde hair on the dog. Also, the fact that she is wearing a yellow dress helps to make them look more closely resembled. Wearing her hair in pig tails also helps out too, resembling the droopiness of the dogs ears.

This picture is absolutely adorable. The little boy closely resembles his pup, especially with the black eye!

Here is yet another picture in which the pup looks an awful lot like his owner. Again, it is perhaps the hair color that makes them have such a resemblance.

These pictures are absolutely adorable, and they do go to back up the claim that many pets look a lot like their owners. While this may be the case sometimes, it is definitely not the case all the time.

Do you have a pet that has an uncanny resemblance to you or someone in your family? If so, submit your photos to us! We would love to see the “family resemblance!”

Posted in Fun with Pets | Tagged breed, mixed breed, owner, pet, purebred | Leave a comment

Help! My Dog has Bad Breath!

Posted on February 8, 2012 by Family Vet

Brushing your dog's teeth has great benefits. Image via Flickr

Dear Family Vet,

We have a 2 year old long haired Chihuahua that we love dearly. The only problem is that she has very stinky breath! What can be done about this? It has gotten to the point that I don’t like to play with her much because her breath is so awful. Can we brush her teeth? Are there products that can be used to freshen her breath? Please help us with this so that we can enjoy being around her without having to constantly worry that her breath is going to knock us off our feet?

Sincerely,

Desperate in Glendale

Dear, Desperate in Glendale,

Thank you for your question! The good news is there are many things that can be done to help improve your dog’s breath! I’ll address a few causes and what you should do.

First, you must rule out medical conditions that may be the cause of the bad breath. For instance, if your pup has really sweet breath then they may actually have diabetes. Make sure that you notice any changes in their drinking and urinating habits. Sometimes, their breath may have a scent that is much like urine and this can mean that they have kidney disease. Other times, foul breath may be a sign of liver issues. Your veterinarian should examine your pet for any symptoms before you attempt to treat the bad breath.

Here are some great tips that have proven to be effective time and time again:

Brushing Your Dog’s Teeth

YES, you can brush her teeth! Here are some guidelines to follow:

Start by choosing a time that your dog is relaxed as it will make it a much easier process for both of you.
Have everything that you will need on hand. You will need a toothbrush and toothpaste that is specifically designed for dogs.
Remember to never hold down your dog as this can cause them to associate having their teeth brushed as a negative experience.
Let your dog taste the toothpaste before you get started. This will ensure that she is comfortable with the taste and the texture.
Once you’re ready to start brushing her teeth, start by lifting the upper lip and brushing gently at a 45 degree angle. Remember not to brush too vigorously.
When you are finished, be sure to reward her for good behavior.

Approved Chews and Treats

Another great way to treat bad breath is by giving your pup approved chews and treats that are designed to fight against bad breath and gum disease. There are many of them in your local supermarket, but it is important to remember that they are not all created equally. You will want to choose the one that will work best for your pup. Here are some guidelines that will help you choose the right treats:

Make sure that the treats have been well researched
Ensure that the treats are healthy for your pup
They should be formulated to treat bad breath

Remember, there may be an underlying medical condition causing your dog’s bad breath that needs to be treated. Only treating the bad breath can only mask the odor and lead to greater issues later. Your veterinarian needs to examine her to know if there are other medical conditions causing the odor. Thanks for your question!

Posted in Caring for Your Dog | Tagged bad breath, brush teeth, dog, dog breath, dog chews, dog treats, teeth | Leave a comment

Parvo: What Pet Owners Need to Know

Posted on February 14, 2012 by Family Vet

Is your pet protected against Parvo? Image via Flickr.

Parvo enteritis, commonly called Parvo, is a highly contagious life-threatening canine disease that can easily be spread from animal to animal if the right preventative measures aren’t taken. Puppies who haven’t been vaccinated are especially susceptible and can be hit hard by the disease. Unlike many human viruses which die off in days, the Parvo virus can live for months in dog feces and dirt. Dogs that are infected can easily spread the disease to other dogs at the dog park, doggy day care, and even in your own backyard. With an untreated mortality rate over 90%, Parvo prevention may be one of the most important things you can do for your dog.

Once a dog becomes infected with Parvo, it rapidly spreads through the intestinal tract and to other parts of their body. According to the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA), Parvo can also cause serious damage to the hearts of unvaccinated puppies. The virus isn’t limited to domesticated animals. It can infect wild canine species like coyotes which presents an additional source of infection. Although it can be treated, there is no cure for Parvo and even with the best available treatment, many dogs do not recover from the disease.

Symptoms

Parvo often hits suddenly starting with loss of appetite, vomiting and diarrhea. Dogs become lethargic and may seem depressed. Diarrhea is often severe and bloody, and in conjunction with vomiting can quickly cause life-threatening dehydration. The AMVA recommends diagnosis and treatment begin immediately as most deaths occur within 48-72 hours of the start of symptoms.

Diagnosis

In order to diagnose Parvo, a veterinarian will look at the dog’s history, vaccinations, and symptoms, in addition to performing blood and fecal testing. Because the disease progresses so quickly and carries such a high untreated mortality rate, dogs displaying symptoms of the disease need to be examined by a veterinary professional as soon as possible.

Treatment

The AMVA indicates that aggressive treatment paired with early detection is the key to successful outcomes. The best treatment for Parvo is immediate hospitalization at a veterinary facility to enable IV fluid treatment for dehydration, the administration of large doses of antibiotics, anti-vomit drugs, and in some cases, blood or serum transfusions. High quality nursing care and constant monitoring can mean the difference between life and death. Research has shown that this aggressive, intensive type of treatment can result in a survival rate of 80-95%.

A home-based treatment plan can cut the cost of treatment but survival rates may be 50% lower than those who are hospitalized.

Prevention

The best way to protect dogs from Parvo is to follow full the vaccination program outlined by the Arizona Humane Society. Puppies should receive the DA2PP vaccination, which protects against Parvo and Distemper, at the following intervals to provide initial immunity:

6-8 weeks
9-11 weeks
12-14 weeks
15-17 weeks

Until a puppy has received all four vaccinations for Parvo, they should be kept away from places like dog parks and kennels where other dogs congregate. Adult dogs need annual vaccinations against this disease to maintain their immunity.

Posted in Vaccinations | Tagged American Veterinary Medical Association, dog, dog parks, Parvo, vaccinations, vaccine | Leave a comment

Pet Owner Alert: Distemper Danger

Posted on February 16, 2012 by Family Vet

Prevent your dog from getting Distemper. Image via Scott King, Flickr.

Last week, the Arizona Humane Society issued a Pet Health Alert in relation to unusual diagnosis patterns for canine distemper. Normally, distemper diagnosis rates increase in the spring but this year, vets and humane societies across the state and around the country are seeing distemper rates increase earlier in the year. In addition to the early start, there is a major concern this year because one or two new strains of distemper are showing up which have a longer incubation period. According to the coverage of the alert by ABC 15, there is also a concern that a new strain may have or develop a resistance to the current vaccine.

Distemper is a virus that can affect a wide range of animals, both wild and domestic. It is very contagious, spread through the air, and impacts almost every area of the body. Domestic dogs and ferrets are the most at risk for pet owners, but skunks, coyotes, foxes, and raccoons in the wild can also contract and spread the disease.

Symptoms

The first symptom of distemper, according to the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) is an eye discharge. The discharge can have different consistencies ranging from watery to thicker and more pus-like. Additional early symptoms of the virus are fever, lethargy, loss of appetite, runny nose, cough, diarrhea, and vomiting. As the disease progresses, usually 1-3 weeks after the start of other symptoms, dogs may have seizures, difficulties with balance, or varying degrees of paralysis as it attacks the nervous system. As the disease runs its course, secondary infections are common because of the virus’s suppression of the immune system.

As the virus is so contagious and treatment options are so limited, pet owners who notice their dogs are not well should have them seen as quickly as possible. Infected dogs need to be kept away from other animals and any area where the infected dog has been kept must be disinfected. With the new strain and concerns about vaccine resistance, these precautions are more important than ever.

Treatment

There is no real treatment for distemper and there is no cure. Veterinarians can minimize discomfort and dehydration, prevent and treat secondary infections, and manage symptoms but half of the dogs who contract the virus will not survive. Those that do survive may have irreparable damage to their nervous systems or other serious complications that require euthanasia. This is why prevention is imperative.

Prevention

The best way to protect dogs from distemper is have them vaccinated and keep their vaccinations up to date. The distemper vaccination program outlined by the Arizona Humane Society recommends that puppies receive the DA2PP vaccination, which protects against Parvo and Distemper, at the following intervals to establish immunity:

6-8 weeks
9-11 weeks
12-14 weeks
15-17 weeks

Adult dogs need annual vaccinations against this disease to maintain their immunity. If you adopt an adult dog, check with your vet about getting them current on their shots.

Posted in Caring for Your Dog, Vaccinations | Tagged ABC15, American Veterinary Medical Association, Arizona Humane Society, distemper, dog, prevention, treatment, vaccination, veterinarian, virus | Leave a comment

February is Responsible Pet Owner’s Month

Posted on February 20, 2012 by Family Vet

Are you a responsible pet owner? image via Flickr

This month, animal organizations around the country will be celebrating National Responsible Pet Owner’s month with specials on services, advice on animal care, and encouragement to keep the pet population down by having dogs and cats spayed and neutered. People often forget that owning a pet is a special privilege that allows us to share our lives with animals we love. Pet ownership comes with many benefits. Pets provide companionship and security, they can help relieve our stress, ease our loneliness, get us to exercise, and love us when it feels like no one else does. In return for all these wonderful benefits, we owe the animals in our lives a standard of care that goes beyond food and shelter.

According to the American Veterinary Medical Association, responsible pet owners think through the decision to adopt a pet and only take on the responsibility after careful consideration. They commit to caring for their pet for the remainder of the pet’s life and understand that owning a pet takes time, money, and energy. Responsible pet owners only take in the pets they can accommodate safely and afford to properly care for which includes appropriate medical care and adequate daily attention. They make sure their pets can be identified if they get loose and provide up to date information so that lost pets can be returned home.

Responsible pet owners also know the local laws and regulations pertaining to their pets and make sure they are following those laws and regulations. They maintain control of their pet’s ability to reproduce by spaying/neutering or other means in order to help control the pet population and limit the need to euthanize unwanted animals. Responsible pet owners provide training, vaccinations, social interaction, activity, exercise, and a safe healthy environment for their pets to thrive in. They take care to abide by leash laws, practice good etiquette in dog parks, and take steps to ensure their pet doesn’t impede on anyone else’s pursuit of happiness.

Being a responsible pet owner is more than just making sure they have a safe place to sleep and food and water in their bowls. The animals in our lives need us to speak for them and to pay attention so that we know when they are in trouble. They rely on us to take them to the vet, get them the shots they need when they need them, and set boundaries that keep them from overeating, running loose, and getting into things that can hurt them. We owe it to them to understand the specific dangers they face and to make sure we are always taking steps to keep them safe.

From choosing the right pet for our family and lifestyle to only taking in those animals we can truly take care of, there is more to being a responsible pet owner than just having a love of animals. This month, as you take your dog for a walk or snuggle up with your cat, think about what being a responsible pet owner means to you and what things you can do differently or where you can improve to take even better care of the animals in your life.

Responsible Pet Owners Month (akc.org)
Humane Society Makes Changes Amid Outcry Over Cat (azcentral.com)
Read more: http://www.azcentral.com/community/phoenix/articles/2011/12/29/20111229humane-society-changes-policies-cat-euthanized.html#ixzz1lvdVFx3U

Posted in Pet Owner Tips | Tagged breed, cat, dog, Dog grooming, Neutering, pet costs, spay, spayed, vaccinations | Leave a comment

Children and Pets: What Parents Need to Know

Posted on February 22, 2012 by Family Vet

Do you know how to pick the right pet for your family?

Owning a pet is often one of the hallmarks of childhood. Almost all American children, 90% according to Parents magazine, will have a domestic animal in their home while they are growing up. To parents, pet ownership is a way to help foster empathy and instill responsibility. To children, pet ownership means having access to a perpetual playmate and a real life version of their favorite cuddly stuffed animal. Caring for dogs and cats can also help build self esteem and reinforce the concept of boundaries for children. With so many benefits, it would be hard to make a case against having children and pets in the same household.

However, pets and children are not always an automatic fit and may be more like oil and water than best friends. The child who has begged for a puppy for two years can suddenly find themselves hiding the dog’s leash or hiding from the dog under the bed. As reality fails to meet expectations, both parents and children can find themselves experiencing buyer’s remorse. The key to creating a successful relationship between your children and your pets is to start the relationship out right. The Arizona Humane Society recommends taking the following steps to make sure your relationship between your child and your pet is strong from the start.

Pick the Right Pet

Whether you are looking at adopting a cat or a dog, thinking about what kind of animal is best suited to your family can be the difference between a successful start and a rocky road. Considering things like the animal’s temperament, size, age, energy level, and needs will help ensure you get the cat or dog that perfectly fills in the family picture in your mind. Many parents immediately think that puppies and kittens are the best fit for small children because they will be able to grow up together, but oftentimes the time commitment, patience, and care required to train and raise animals under a year old are much more than a child can handle. A dog that is too big or too rambunctious might jump on smaller children, nip at them, and leave them terrified of dogs for years to come. A cat that is too young might be accidently injured by a child that plays too rough with it or might scratch or bite the child to get away. Picking the pet that is the right fit for your family is the first step.

Set Clear Expectations

Before you bring your new cat or dog home, it is important that everyone understands who will be expected to do what in terms of caring for the family pet. No matter what kind of pet you are adopting, there is more to caring for that pet than making sure it has food and water. Dogs and cats need playtime and exercise every day. Cats need to have their litter box maintained and dogs need shelter if kept outdoors. Everyone in the family needs to understand the work involved in caring for the new pet and how that work will be handled. For parents, it is important to understand that no matter how responsible your child or children are, they cannot be solely responsible for the care of the family pet. One of the benefits children receive from pet ownership is learning responsibility, but that is a process that takes time, modeling, assistance, and adult supervision.

Taking the time to pick the right pet and make sure everything has the right expectations helps ensure everyone in your family will have a positive experience with pet ownership, including your new pet.

Related Articles

Adoptable Pets (azhumane.org)
Pet Classifieds (azcentral.com)

Posted in Pet Owner Tips | Tagged cat, children, dog, pet adoption, pet care, pet owner, pets and children | Leave a comment

Training Cats to Use the Litter Box

Posted on February 28, 2012 by Family Vet

Does your cat have problems using the litter box? image from nattywoohoo via Flickr

Cat owners definitely luck out in the waste management department of pet ownership since the majority of cats do not need any specific “litter training”. As long as your kitten or cat has access to a clean litter box in an appropriate location, their instincts will show them the way. In fact, trying to litter train your cat by showing them the litter box and rubbing their paws in the litter can actually make them less likely to use it at all.

Many owners have issues with where to put the litter box because of the odor but a well-maintained box that is clean and has the right amount of litter should not give off much odor at all. Remember, if it smells bad to you, it smells worse to your cat’s sensitive nose. A strong odor can convince them to do their business elsewhere. This goes for strong odors of the artificial kind too. Using scented cat litter, room deodorizers, or any other fragrant substance to mask the smell of your litter box may also contribute to your cat’s unwillingness to use it all together.

The best way to keep your cat happy and your house clean and odor free is to follow these recommendations from the Humane Society of the United States.

Litter box Placement

When it comes to the litter box, it is all about location. If you are tempted to tuck the litter box into an out of the way corner in the basement, remember that your cat has to be willing to go there every time they need to go to the bathroom. If it is too out of the way, they may not be willing to make the trek every time.

You also need to consider the comfort and privacy your chosen location offers. Does the cat have to walk across an ice-cold garage floor to get to their bathroom? Is their litter box stuffed in between the noisy rocking washing machine and the wall? Put yourself in your cat’s place and if you wouldn’t want to go to the bathroom there, they probably won’t like it either.

Which Litter Should I Use

There are four common types of litter in use today:

Traditional clay litter
Scoopable clumping litter
Crystal/silica gel litter
Plant based biodegradable litter

Any of these are fine for your cat from a health and safety perspective. According to the Arizona Humane Society, research indicates that the majority of cats prefer litter that is fine grained like the newer scoopable litter. But the only thing that really matters is finding the litter your cat likes.

Common Litter box Questions

Q: If I have more than one cat, how many litter boxes do I need?

A: The Humane Society of the U.S. recommends one litter box per cat plus one extra.

Q: How often do I need to clean the litter box?

A: Feces should be scooped out daily. The frequency that you change the litter out completely will depend on your cat to litter box ratio, the type of litter you use, and how picky your cats are about their litter box.

Q: How much litter should I put in the litter box?

A: In this case, less is more. Most cats prefer litter than is less than 2 inches deep.

Q: My cat has stopped using the litter box, what should I do?

A: First, call the veterinarian because many medical conditions can impact a cat’s litter use. Once your cat gets a clean bill of health, go over the items mentioned here and check that the litter box is accessible, comfortable, quiet, and clean.

Preventing Litter Box Problems (humanesociety.org)
Litter Box Training (azhumane.org)

Posted in Caring for Your Cat, Cat Behavior | Tagged cat, cat litter, kitty litter, litter box, litter box training, odor | Leave a comment

5 Common Pet Care Questions

Posted on March 1, 2012 by Family Vet

How do you get your puppy to stop chewing shoes? image via jimw on Flickr

If you have a pet, odds are you’ve found yourself asking questions. Whether it’s wondering what you should or shouldn’t do as you care for your pet or how to curb a bothersome behavior, most pet owners question what is the best thing to do. So, we’ve taken five of the more common questions we get and answer them for you here.

1. I can’t get my cat to stop scratching my children. Should I consider having him declawed?

The Arizona Humane Society considers declawing inhumane and unnecessary in almost all circumstances. It does not condone this practice and recommends that cat owners seek other alternatives to handle this behavior challenge. The only time the AZHS would support the practice of declawing your pet is if the only remaining option is to give up the cat or get it declawed. It is important for cat owner’s to understand that declawing is not like trimming back your fingernails, it is like removing your finger nails by amputating each finger at the top knuckle. The surgery can have lasting negative impacts on your cat’s health and wellbeing.

2. My daughter really wants a guinea pig but I am worried we don’t have enough space. How big of a cage does a guinea pig need?

According to the AZHS, a single guinea pig requires a cage that is 2’x2’x2’. If you have more than one guinea pig as a pet, you will need a bigger cage.

3. Are there any plants that could harm my pet?

There are more than 700 plants that have been shown to cause an adverse or toxic reaction in pets according to the Humane Society of the U.S. For a list of common poisonous plants, click here.

4. My puppy keeps chewing up my shoes. I am at my wits end and don’t know what to do because his behavior is making me resentful. How can I get my pet to stop chewing up my shoes?

It might help to understand that one of the ways dogs explore their environment is by chewing on things. Remember, he is not doing it on purpose just to make you angry and take these steps recommended by the AZHS:

If you don’t want him to chew on something, don’t leave it where he can get it. In your dog’s mind, if he can reach it, he can have it.
Keep dog toys and personal belongings separate in your dog’s mind. If he likes chewing on shoes, don’t give him an old shoe to chew on and expect him to be able to tell the difference between shoes that can be chewed on and shoes that can’t. If you don’t want him chewing on shoes, make them all off limits.
It’s natural for puppies to chew a lot when they are teething. Use redirection and substitution when you catch them chewing on anything inappropriate. Make a loud noise, retrieve the inappropriate object, and replace it with an acceptable chew toy.

5. We are getting ready to move to a new house. What do we need to do to prepare our pets for the move?

Start by talking to your veterinarian to determine if you will need medication for any of your pets to help them manage the journey. You should plan to take care of this no less than three weeks before the move. Make sure you have a copy of your pet’s medical records and all other items they will need to be safe and comfortable during the move. During the loading and unloading process, keep your pet confined somewhere safe and comfortable to ensure they don’t slip out unnoticed by the moving crew. Take time to let your pets become accustomed to their new home. Make sure you can easily unpack familiar items like bedding and bowls and expose your pets to the new house a little at a time. Keep an eye on your pet’s habits during the adjustment period to ensure they are eating, drinking, sleeping, and acting like themselves. Give them a little extra attention and you will be surprised at how quickly they make the adjustment.

Cat Declawing (azhumane.org)
Guinea Pig Care (azhumane.org)
Poisonous Plants to Pets (azhumane.org)

Posted in Caring for Your Cat, Caring for Your Dog, Cat Behavior, Dog Behavior, Pet Owner Tips | Tagged Arizona Humane Society, behavior, cat, claws, declaw, dog, guinea pig, Humane Society, pet, puppy, shoes | Leave a comment

Pet Insurance 101: What Pet Owner’s Need to Know

Posted on March 7, 2012 by Family Vet

Do you need insurance for your pet? Image via h202008 on Flickr.

If you have ever had a pet with a serious illness or injury, you know that medical bills for your pets can quickly become a real financial problem for your family. You love your pets and want to do everything you can for them, but as the costs for care rise, you may reach a point where you have to make a difficult decision. You may have to choose between providing your pet with the level of care you want to be able to give them and being able to pay for the things your family needs to get by. No pet owner wants to have to make that choice.

The month of February was Responsible Pet Owner’s Month and part of being a responsible pet owner is being able to care for your pets and give them everything they need to live happy, healthy lives. Pet owners should have a plan for how they will pay for the routine care their pets need and what they will do in the event of an emergency. As you think through your plan, you may want to look at the alternatives available for Pet Insurance. This type of coverage can be a vital part of your overall pet care plan but it can also provide you with the peace of mind that comes from knowing you won’t ever have to choose between paying for your pet’s care and putting food on the table.

To help you figure out if Pet Insurance is right for your needs, here are 4 things pet owners should know about this kind of insurance.

1. The Basics

Think of pet insurance like an HMO for your animals. This coverage helps you cover the cost of medical care if your pet becomes ill or injured.

2. What’s Covered

Like any other insurance policy, pet insurance policies can be purchased with different levels of coverage. You can get a policy that only provides coverage for illness or injury. You can get a policy that covers illness, injury, and some wellness care. You can also get a policy that covers all that plus vaccinations and medication.

3. Why Pet Owner’s Purchase It

Many pet owners purchase pet insurance because they don’t ever want to be in the position that they cannot provide the care their pet needs because of financial constraints. Securing this kind of coverage gives people peace of mind because they know that if something serious happens to their pet, they can make the medical decision that is best for the animal and focus on caring for their pet rather than on figuring out how to finance care.

4. The Cost

Just like your other insurance policies, the premium for a pet insurance policy will depend on the type of coverage you choose. If you want a policy that covers vaccinations, medication, and routine checkups, it will generally cost more than a policy that only covers illness and injury. Additional factors like what kind of animal your pet is and its age may also affect the cost.

ASPCA Insurance (aspcapetinsurance.com)
Should You Buy Pet Insurance (money.msn.com)

Posted in Pet Costs | Tagged bills, insurance, pet, pet costs, veterinarian | Leave a comment

5 Mistakes You Might Be Making With Your Dog’s Teeth

Posted on March 9, 2012 by Family Vet

Are you caring for your pet's teeth? Image via Vagabond Shutterbug on Flickr

When was the last time you had your dog’s teeth cleaned? Is his bad breath normal or is it a sign that something may be amiss? Do you know the signs that there is a problem with your dog’s teeth? If you don’t know the answer to these questions, you may be endangering the long term health of your dog.

February was National Pet Dental Health Month, an awareness effort sponsored in part by the American Veterinary Medical Association. Oral hygiene, tooth care, and gum health are just as important for your dog as they are for you. Make a commitment this month to safeguarding your dog’s health and read on to see if you are making any of these common oral care mistakes.

1. Not Following a Home Dental Care Regimen

Dogs need to have their own oral hygiene routine at home. This ensures their teeth and gums stay as healthy as possible. If you are not following an oral care program at home, talk to your veterinarian about what kind of routine is right for your dog. Oral hygiene may include teeth brushing, using special food that helps remove plaque and keep tartar from building up, and following a schedule of regular in-office teeth cleaning.

2. Not Taking Your Pet to the Vet For Routine Visits

Regular checkups with your veterinarian are important for your dog’s overall health, not just for their oral care. Taking your dog in on a regular basis can significantly improve their dental health and helps your veterinary doctor keep an eye on the health of your dogs teeth and gums.

3. Not Knowing the Signs of Gum Disease

Gum disease, or periodontal disease, is caused by the buildup of plaque and tartar on your dog’s teeth and if it is not identified and treated, it can result in tooth loss, pain, and problems with internal organs. When you check your pet’s teeth, look for gums that are red or swollen, visible tartar at the gum line, and pain or bleeding when you touch their gums or teeth.

4. Not Checking Your Pet’s Teeth Regularly

Part of your dog’s home dental care routine will likely include periodic checks for signs that gum disease is developing. To check for gum disease, look inside your dog’s mouth and run your finger along their gum line. If you notice any signs of periodontal disease, you should schedule a visit with your veterinarian to determine if you need to make changes to your home care program and if you need to have your dog’s teeth cleaned.

5. Not Getting Your Dog’s Teeth Cleaned

Getting your dog’s teeth cleaned is as important to his oral heath as getting your teeth cleaned is to yours. Some dog owner’s put off the procedure because it requires that your dog be given anesthesia. This is a requirement because your dog likes having his teeth cleaned even less than you do. Your dog needs to be asleep so that the veterinarian can perform a complete oral exam, scrape off any tartar build-up, and perform any treatments that are necessary.

Periodontal disease is a common problem for all dogs and if left untreated, it can lead to serious health problems like inflammation of the heart, liver, or kidneys. Make a commitment this month to take better care of your dog’s teeth and remind yourself that you are protecting his health each time you brush his teeth.

Pet Dental Care (petdental.com)
National Pet Dental Health Month (avma.org)

Posted in Caring for Your Dog, Pet Health | Tagged brushing teeth, dog, gingivitis, pet dental care. veterinarian, plaque, tartar, teeth | Leave a comment

4 Serious Feline Diseases and What Cat Owner’s Need to Know

Posted on March 12, 2012 by Family Vet

Protect your feline from deadly diseases. Image via MDphotography on Flickr.

Just like their human companions, cats and kittens are vulnerable to a long list of health problems. Some are minor, some are serious, and some could steal the life of a beloved feline long before their time. It is crucial for cat owner’s to know the signs of some of the more serious ailments as well as what they can do to prevent their cats from contracting them.

Prevention is the Best Defense

Although many of the diseases discussed here have dire consequences, they are almost all preventable. The key is to know what preventative measures need to be taken and what you can do to keep your cat safe. The greatest risk of contracting the most common diseases comes from interacting with stray or feral cats that are not being cared for or vaccinated. The Humane Society of the U.S. believes there are more than 50 million feral and stray cats roaming the country. With Arizona’s temperate climate, large numbers of feral and stray cats have created colonies in our communities. Keeping pets away from these animals helps keep our pets healthy and protects them from fleas and ticks which are also carriers of disease.

1. Feline Leukemia

This disease is caused by a virus that spreads from one cat to another through bodily fluids like saliva and urine. Not all cats respond the same when they contract the virus; some will get sick immediately while others can be symptom free for weeks. Feline leukemia is very serious and can lead to many serious health conditions including systemic infections, cancer, respiratory tract infections, anemia, diarrhea, and infections of the eyes, skin, and bladder. There is no cure for feline leukemia. The best way to protect your cat is to keep their vaccinations up to date, keep them indoors, and limit their exposure to other cats.

2. Kidney Disease and Renal Failure

Cats can develop acute kidney disease by ingesting toxic or poisonous substances. They can also develop it over time as they age. Both chronic and acute kidney disease can lead to renal failure, which is the leading cause of death for older cats. Symptoms of kidney disease include dehydration, excessive urine, excessive thirst, vomiting, loss of appetite, and lethargy. If your cat is experiencing any of these symptoms, take him or her to the vet as soon as possible to be tested for kidney disease.

3. Feline Rabies

This disease is generally contracted from the bite of a wild animal that is infected with rabies. As with rabies in other animals, feline rabies can be transmitted to humans and exposure to rabies must be treated immediately. There is no treatment or cure if your cat becomes infected. Protect your cat from this dangerous disease by keeping their vaccinations up to date and keeping them inside and away from wild animals.

4. Feline Immunodeficiency Virus

Similar to the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV) isn’t spread through casual contact like sharing a water bowl or bumping noses. This disease is most often spread when one infected cat bites another cat. FIV is always terminal and can cause serious complications as the immune system becomes less and less able to fight off other ailments. As with most feline diseases, the best way to protect your cat is to keep their vaccinations up to date and keep them indoors and away from unfamiliar cats.

What Vaccinations Does My Cat Need? (familyvet.com)
5 Most Dangerous Cat Diseases (animal.discovery.com)

Posted in Caring for Your Cat, Pet Health, Vaccinations | Tagged cat, cat diseases, feline leukemia, kidney disease, pet, rabies, renal failure | Leave a comment

Chiropractic Care for Pets

Posted on March 14, 2012 by Family Vet

Does your pet need a chiropractor? image via Alex Balan on Flickr

Although chiropractic techniques have been used in animal care for decades, many people believe it a new practice. The formalization of a standard training and certification program has only been available for about 10 years which is why so few people have had exposure to this type of pet care. Chiropractic care for animals is based on the same principles as chiropractic care for people. For pet owners who are looking for effective, natural ways to treat ailments and prevent disease, animal chiropractic care can offer an alternative approach and can be used in conjunction with more traditional veterinary care.

How Does Chiropractic Care Work?

Chiropractic care on animals has the same goals and works the same way as it does on humans. The chiropractor uses specific actions to adjustment different areas of the animal’s body to correct misalignment in their joints. Think about how painful it can be for you to have a crick in your neck or experience persistent low back pain. Your pet can have similar problems if they have joints that are out of alignment or otherwise not working properly. In their spine alone, dogs and cats each have more than 100 joints. Just one joint can cause ongoing pain and result in a long term injury. As with people, chiropractic care can restore mobility, flexibility, and movement to your dog or cat’s musculoskeletal system.

What Qualifications Does an Animal Chiropractor Have?

In order to become an Animal Chiropractor, a person must first be either a licensed doctor of chiropractic or a licensed doctor of veterinary medicine. Certification is administered by the Animal Chiropractic Accreditation Commission (ACAC) in conjunction with the American Veterinary Chiropractic Association (AVCA). Those seeking certification must attend additional training specific to providing chiropractic care for animals, pass the examination at the end of the training program, and then pass a written and clinical exam. Certification is good for 3 years and recertification requires the individual to earn a specific number of continuing education credits.

What During a Chiropractic Visit?

The first thing an animal chiropractor will do is collect a full medical history and perform a complete examination of your pet’s spine. If needed, other joints will also be examined as part of this initial visit. In order to take necessary x-rays and perform any adjustments and manipulations needed, pets are usually sedated during chiropractic visits. Chiropractic visits are usually scheduled once a week for several weeks and then gradually decrease until the problem is resolved or the treatment is complete. This kind of schedule allows the chiropractor to continue making adjustments until the joint and muscles can maintain proper alignment. The chiropractor may use adjustments and manipulations in conjunction with more traditional treatments like medication. If your pet’s chiropractor is not also their veterinarian, they can work together as a team to provide a comprehensive treatment plan for your pet.

The addition of an animal chiropractor to your pet’s health care team may seem strange at first, but just as our bodies get out of alignment from time to time and need special care to be corrected, so do the bodies of our pets.

Related Articles:

Pet Chiropractic (familyvet.com)
Why Animal Chiropractic (avcadoctors.com)

Posted in Caring for Your Cat, Caring for Your Dog, Pet Health | Tagged adjustments, animal chiropractor, chiropractic, joints, pet care, spine, veterinarian | Leave a comment

How to Housetrain Your Puppy

Posted on April 9, 2012 by Family Vet

You fell in love with your new puppy the minute you saw him at the humane society. You can’t wait to bring him home and make him part of your family. You have everything you need from food to a cozy bed for him to curl up in and you feel like you are ready. The day comes and you bring your lovable and very excited puppy home. You set him down inside the house to let him explore and he promptly pees on the living room carpet. You sigh and smile because you are still in the stage where everything he does is too cute to reprimand him.

If this sounds like you, you may be signing yourself up for a lot of frustration and endangering the loving bond you feel growing with your puppy. The problem is, what is cute today will not be cute a month from now, especially when it comes to house training. And you are about to commit the cardinal sin of house training by being inconsistent. Protect your relationship with your pet and your flooring by following these simple steps from the Human Society of the United States.

Keep Things Consistent

Puppies respond well to routine and when house training having a routine can help your pet establish good habits. Remember that puppies can only control their bladder for about one hour for each month of their age. This means that if your puppy is 3 months old, he can only go for 3 hours at a time without a bathroom break. Making sure your puppy can go to the bathroom when he needs to will help prevent accidents and helps establish a routine of going outside to go potty.

Reward Good Behavior

Reinforce good potty behavior by rewarding your puppy with praise or a small treat every time he goes to the bathroom outside. Just make sure you give the reward immediately after and prior to going back in the house. This helps your puppy understand what you expect of him and makes it clear that going to the bathroom is an outside activity.

Schedule Food and Water

One way to help your puppy learn to go to the bathroom when and where he is supposed to is to put him on a regular feeding schedule. This helps bring consistency to the times when he needs to go the bathroom and makes it easier for you to know when he needs to go out. To help your puppy make it through the night without needing to go out, pick up his water dish a couple hours before bedtime.

Pay Attention

When your puppy is in the house, keep an eye on him and watch for signs that he is going to do his business. Interrupting him and taking him outside will provide additional reinforcement that that business belongs outside.

Keep Him Close

While you are house training your puppy, you need to restrict his movements. Keeping him on a leash that limits where he can go without you will help you see what he is up to before he does it. Reward reliable elimination in the right location with more freedom.

Crates and Confinement

During the house training process, you need to keep your puppy confined to a small enough space to discourage elimination if you cannot be there to supervise. This is where crating can be helpful but you don’t have to use a crate for this to be successful. Blocking off a small corner of a room can accomplish the same goal. Just make sure your puppy can stand up, lie down, and turn around. Make sure you take him out to use the bathroom just before and just after he is in the crate.

The most important thing to remember when you are house training your puppy is that he is doing his best and all you need is patience, perseverance, and consistency in order to help him be successful. Don’t be alarmed when accidents happen, and they will. Just take steps right away to rectify the situation.

Animal Update: House Training Your New Pet (sanfrancisco.cbslocal.com)
How to Potty Train a Puppy (answers.com)

Posted in Caring for Your Dog, Pet Owner Tips | Tagged dog, Housebreaking, New Puppy, pet, Puppies, Reinforcement, Toilet training, Your Puppy (Complete Pet Owner's Manual) | Leave a comment

Dangers of the Desert: Rattlesnakes

Posted on April 11, 2012 by Family Vet

Rattlesnakes pose a real threat to our pets in the desert. (Image via Wikipedia)

Here in the desert, our pets are subjected to a variety of different dangers specific to our climate and local wildlife. As pet owners, it is important to understand how desert living can affect our pets and what precautions we need to take to keep them protected and safe. It’s naive to think that these dangers don’t apply to you or your pet because you live in a city and never venture into the desert. Many of these things can happen right in your own backyard. As always, if you suspect your pet is ill, call your vet immediately.

Worrying About Rattlesnakes is Warranted

One danger of the desert is the rattlesnake. Pet owners who worry that their cat or dog will be bitten by a rattlesnake are right to worry. Statistics show that there are around 15,000 pets bitten by rattlesnakes each year and rattlesnake bites account for about 82% of pet snake bite fatalities. Although there is antivenin available for cats and dogs, it isn’t as effective as it is for humans; many vets use it only as a last resort. Many pets can recover from a rattlesnake bite, but it is very painful and very costly.

Protecting Your Pet

The best way to protect your pet from rattlesnakes is to stay with your pet while they are out of your yard, pay attention to your surroundings, and know what to do if you run across a rattlesnake. Follow these tips to keep you pets safe:

Send your dog through a rattlesnake avoidance program.
Keep pets on a leash while away from home. This will keep them away from the areas you are most likely to find a rattlesnake like tall grass and thick shrubbery, especially near a water source like a small creek.
If you see a rattlesnake or hear the distinctive rattle, avoid the snake. Keep your pet and yourself 10’ from the snake.
Keep emergency contact information for both the local hospital and the closest veterinary hospital with you whenever you go out for a walk, a hike, or a picnic. Timing is critical with rattlesnake bites and knowing where to go and how to get there in the event of an emergency can be the difference between life and death.
Take steps to keep your yard free of rattlesnakes so you feel safe allowing your pet to play there unattended.

There is also a vaccination for dogs that protects against rattlesnake bites. However, there is some controversy over its effectiveness. Talk to your vet to see how they feel about the vaccine and if they feel it is a good fit for your animal.

Keeping Rattlesnakes Out of Your Yard

The best defense against rattlesnakes on your property is installing a rattlesnake-proof fence. If there are a lot of snakes in your area, the cost of the fence may seem very cost effective when compared to the cost of having the vet care for your pet after a bite. Keep your grass cut short and avoid keeping piles of debris in the yard as these are great places for rattlesnakes to hide.

How to Survive a Snake Bite (myfoxphoenix.com)
Pet Safety (rattlesnakehut.com)
When Dogs Tangle with Snakes (nytimes.com)

Posted in Pet Health, Tips | Tagged Desert, dog, pet, Rattlesnake, Snake, Snakebite, Squirrel, University of California Davis | Leave a comment

Healthy Pets: How to Avoid Tick Fever

Posted on April 24, 2012 by Family Vet

tick (Photo credit: glemak)

As the weather warms and spring heads towards summer, many Arizona residents are relishing their outdoor time. This is one of the best times of year to spend time enjoying our beautiful outdoor spaces before the heat of summer settles in. But with spring and the outdoors comes the possibility of tick bites and the danger or tick fever. Pet owners need to be aware of the dangers ticks present and what to do to protect their pets health.

What is a tick?

A tick is a parasite in the same family as spiders and scorpions that survives off the blood of mammals and can transmit serious diseases when they bite. There are several different types of ticks including the Brown Dog Tick, American Dog Tick, and Deer Tick.

Where do ticks live?

Ticks live in tall grass, wooded areas, your backyard, and most other places outside.

Why are ticks dangerous?

Ticks transmit diseases that can cause serious health problems and even death. Ticks are responsible for spreading Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever, Babesiosis, Lyme Disease, Tick Paralysis, and Tick Fever. Many of these diseases are transferred from one dog to another by tick bites, which is why keeping your pets and homes tick-free is the best way to prevent these tick-borne illnesses.

How can I protect my pet?

The best way is to use a tick collar or tick repellant product on your pet that is recommended by your veterinarian. There are hundreds of products available for managing ticks and your best bet is to talk to your veterinarian for a recommendation. Your vet knows your pet and their habits as well as the local area and the best course for prevention specific to all those factors.

Types of tick control products include:

Topical Repellants – These tick prevention products are applied to your pet’s skin and act as a full body flea and tick collar. Frontline is an example of a topical repellant.
Dips – This preventative measure where a tick repellant is poured onto your pet and must be done every two weeks to maintain an adequate level of protection.
Topical Sprays – Sprays are good to kill off ticks quickly and do offer some protection. They are most often used in conjunction with other treatments as a stop-gap measure.
Shampoo – Using shampoo is good for killing off adult ticks and helping remove eggs, but shampoo doesn’t offer lasting protection from ticks.
Tick Collars – Collars help kill any ticks already on your pet and can help repel new ticks. However, it is best to use collars in conjunction with a complete tick control program in order to fully protect your pet.
Foggers and Sprays for the House – If you suspect that you have ticks in the house and the yard, the use of foggers and sprays can kill off ticks and keep eggs from hatching.

You also need to be diligent about checking for ticks every time your pets come back into the house after being outside.

In the House

One of the keys to keeping your pet healthy is to ensure your home stays tick free. Start by implementing a tick check for all family members each time they come back from an activity where it is possible that they encountered a tick. Keeping ticks out of the house is a great start to maintaining optimal pet health.

In the Yard

If your yard contains brush or tall grass, keep it cut low to limit the places ticks have to live. Ticks also like to live in the woods

Out and About

If your idea of the outdoors is farther outside than your backyard, your best defense against ticks is to pay attention to the areas you and your pet wander through and be very diligent about tick prevention and checking for ticks before anyone re-enters the house.

Taking tick prevention seriously is an important part of maintaining your pet’s health. Work with your vet to design the right tick control program for your pet.

Tick Fever (familyvet.com)
Ticks (familyvet.com)
Tick Prevention (healthfinder.gov)

Posted in Fleas and Ticks | Tagged Babesiosis, Colorado tick fever, Deer Tick, Lyme Disease, pet, Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever, Tick, Tick Paralysis | Leave a comment

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