Local Value Veterinary

Category: Pets

  • Halloween Safety Tips

    Halloween Safety Tips

    Tips for Keeping your Pets Safe During Halloween

    Unusual activities, costumed visitors, anxiety, and fear can all make Halloween a nightmare for your pets. Whether your pets are prone to anxiety and fear or not, they like their daily routine, which when interrupted can cause them to feel agitated and uncomfortable. Here are some excellent tips for keeping your pets during Halloween.

    Never give your pets candies

    Regardless of how much fun you think it will be for your pets to participate in Halloween, you should never give them candies. All types of chocolate, specifically the dark or baking chocolate, can be lethal for cats and dogs. Chocolate poisoning symptoms include diarrhea, elevated heart rate, seizers, rapid breathing and vomiting. Also, xylitol, an artificial sweetener, can cause your dogs to have liver failure or other issues related to low blood sugar.

    Don’t Leave your pets outside during Halloween

    There are cases of vicious pranksters who injure, tease or even steal pets during Halloween. Black colored cats are more vulnerable to these cruelty-related pranks, so ensure that your pets are safely locked away indoors. 

    Keep your pets away from your front door

    While indoor is much better than staying outdoors during Halloween, your front door will likely be opened and closed constantly, with different visitors wearing strange costumes. Your pets may find that situation scary, resulting in unexpected aggression or escape attempts. Make sure you put your cat or dog away in a room far away from the door as possible to minimize stress.

    Don’t let your pets play with glow sticks

    Even though glow sticks are essential in keeping people safe during Halloween, your pet can easily chew one open. Fortunately, the liquid used in these devices is not toxic. If your pet bites into these glow sticks, offer them fresh water to clear out the material from the mouth.

    Keep all Halloween plants out of your pet’s reach

    Although your pet can safely eat small quantities of pumpkin and corn, ingesting moldy or uncooked Halloween display plants can cause huge problems. Your pet could get gastrointestinal upset or intestinal blockage when they swallow large pieces. 
    Avoid keeping lit items around pets

    When you are using any Halloween decorations that involve fireworks, candles or lanterns, ensure you place them out of easy access by your pets. It will prevent your pets from burning themselves and even causing a huge fire. The same also applies for any battery or electric-powered Halloween decorations. 

    Avoid dressing your pets in limiting costumes

    The pet costumes you choose must not restrict hearing, breathing ability, movement or eyesight. You should aim to make this process fun for your pet through positive reinforcement and treats.

    Lastly, ensure your pets have the proper IDs. Tags and collars are perfect for ensuring that they will be easily returned if they happen to get lost during Halloween. 

  • Heart Disease in Pets

    Heart Disease in Pets

    Tips on Dealing with Heart Disease in Pets

    Finding out that your cat or dog is suffering from heart disease can be quite tough. Depending on how far the condition has advanced, your veterinarian may have limited treatment options. However, although they are no scientifically proven methods of preventing heart disease, experienced veterinarians recommend that you recognize the symptoms of this health problem early. An early diagnosis means that your vet will have enough time to create a good treatment plan to help your pet maintain a decent standard of life. 

    Heart Disease Symptoms in Dogs

    The symptoms of heart disease typically appear in puppies who have the condition from birth. In contrast, acquired heart problems show up with old age. In both cases, slowing down and lethargy are indicative of cardiac issues and not just orthopedic discomfort or arthritis. 

    As the health issue progresses to the heart failure stage, most dogs start coughing along with increased respiratory effort and rate. It is recommended to monitor your dog’s natural breathing rate by counting the number of times their chest rises up in one minute. Anything under 35 is normal, but if you notice a progressive increase in effort or the rate, then go to the vet for a checkup immediately.

    Heart Disease Symptoms in Cats

    According to researchers, cat owners have a hard time noticing if their pet’s behavior is indicative of a health problem until the disease has progressed much further. For instance, your cat may be displaying the normal laziness associated with cats or they could be lethargic due to heart disease. Nevertheless, heart disease in cats can cause lack of appetite, respiratory difficulty, and enhanced reclusiveness.

    The cat purring behavior makes it challenging to count their respiratory rate. However, you can still try and count how many breaths they take every minute while your cat is sleeping. Anything under 50 breaths every minute is normal.

    Are Specific Pet Breeds More Vulnerable to Heart Disease?

    Some dog breeds are more vulnerable to developing heart problems. Certain large dog breeds like Dobermans, Boxers, and Great Danes are likely to develop cardiac myopathy, which involves enlargement of heart muscles, thus affecting its capability of pumping blood. Poodles, Schnauzers, and Pomeranians are all susceptible to valve diseases. In contrast, various breeds like Cairns, Terriers, and Westies among many others do not tend to become affected with heart complications as compared to other dogs. 

    It is harder to make the same sweeping generalizations for cats since many people do not own purebred cats. Nevertheless, several breeds like Bengals, Maine Coons and Sphinxes are the most affected by genetic hypertrophic cardiomyopathy. More scientific research is, however, necessary to understand the genetic causes of heart problems in cats. 

    Conclusion

    Early detection is critical to maintaining your pet’s optimal health even if they have heart disease. When the pet owner, a vet and a specialist intervene early on with the right medication, the dog or cat can live for years without experiencing fatal heart failure. 

    References: Pet MD, 2nd Chance, Pet Care Rx

     

     
     
     
  • Heart Disease in Pets

    Heart Disease in Pets

    Tips on Dealing with Heart Disease in Pets

    Finding out that your cat or dog is suffering from heart disease can be quite tough. Depending on how far the condition has advanced, your veterinarian may have limited treatment options. However, although they are no scientifically proven methods of preventing heart disease, experienced veterinarians recommend that you recognize the symptoms of this health problem early. An early diagnosis means that your vet will have enough time to create a good treatment plan to help your pet maintain a decent standard of life. 

    Heart Disease Symptoms in Dogs

    The symptoms of heart disease typically appear in puppies who have the condition from birth. In contrast, acquired heart problems show up with old age. In both cases, slowing down and lethargy are indicative of cardiac issues and not just orthopedic discomfort or arthritis. 

    As the health issue progresses to the heart failure stage, most dogs start coughing along with increased respiratory effort and rate. It is recommended to monitor your dog’s natural breathing rate by counting the number of times their chest rises up in one minute. Anything under 35 is normal, but if you notice a progressive increase in effort or the rate, then go to the vet for a checkup immediately.

    Heart Disease Symptoms in Cats

    According to researchers, cat owners have a hard time noticing if their pet’s behavior is indicative of a health problem until the disease has progressed much further. For instance, your cat may be displaying the normal laziness associated with cats or they could be lethargic due to heart disease. Nevertheless, heart disease in cats can cause lack of appetite, respiratory difficulty, and enhanced reclusiveness.

    The cat purring behavior makes it challenging to count their respiratory rate. However, you can still try and count how many breaths they take every minute while your cat is sleeping. Anything under 50 breaths every minute is normal.

    Are Specific Pet Breeds More Vulnerable to Heart Disease?

    Some dog breeds are more vulnerable to developing heart problems. Certain large dog breeds like Dobermans, Boxers, and Great Danes are likely to develop cardiac myopathy, which involves enlargement of heart muscles, thus affecting its capability of pumping blood. Poodles, Schnauzers, and Pomeranians are all susceptible to valve diseases. In contrast, various breeds like Cairns, Terriers, and Westies among many others do not tend to become affected with heart complications as compared to other dogs. 

    It is harder to make the same sweeping generalizations for cats since many people do not own purebred cats. Nevertheless, several breeds like Bengals, Maine Coons and Sphinxes are the most affected by genetic hypertrophic cardiomyopathy. More scientific research is, however, necessary to understand the genetic causes of heart problems in cats. 

    Conclusion

    Early detection is critical to maintaining your pet’s optimal health even if they have heart disease. When the pet owner, a vet and a specialist intervene early on with the right medication, the dog or cat can live for years without experiencing fatal heart failure. 

    References: Pet MD, 2nd Chance, Pet Care Rx

     

     
     
     
  • Caring for your pet

    Caring for your pet

    Caring for your pet: Five Possible Tips to Try Out

    With our contemporary lifestyles, it may become a challenge to show your pet that you care. Although most would feel that they are not up to the problem of caring for the pet, there are simple ideas that go a long way in growing the care of the pet and keeping them healthy. Here are the essential ideas you can conduct as a pet parent

    Exercise and Playtime

    Just like us, pets also get dull from spending too much time indoors and as it stands, taking them out for routine morning or evening walks is a great way to reconnect with the animal and growing their company. If you are going for a morning jog, you can opt to take them along and help them exercise to and reduce excess weight.

    Grooming

    Whether owning a cat or dog, shedding fur is bound to happen and rather than have the negative experience of hairballs, and painful mats, you can always schedule grooming appointments at the pet boutique or purchase the grooming products. Getting the pet shampooed, combed and nails clipped would add an excellent touch to keeping them feeling fresh.

    Feed them Properly

    There is nothing that shows care as feeding your dog or cat in the right way and adequately. It is best to ensure the pet is sufficiently fed and receives the proper nutrients, free from toxic ingredients. For extra effort, you can purchase breed-specific foods that are ideal options for different pets. Overall, the market provides plenty of foods for all pets.

    Regular Check-ups

    Routine visits to the vet are necessarily the best option to indeed show your pet that you do care. Getting checks often would ensure the dog or cat is in excellent condition and not susceptible to health problems.

    Bonding Time

    With busy lifestyles and schedules, dogs and cats are often left second in consideration when it comes to spending time after a long day. Showing care would need you to chalk out a day or time in your day where it is nice to spend some alone time with the pet. That could mean lap time in your daily or weekly schedule.

    The best way to show love to your pets is to provide and offer the best for them regarding care. Still, involving the pet in your daily schedule is the best gift to keep your pet company and showing them you care.

    Sources: Health, One Green Planet, Science Direct, Pawster

     

  • Healthy and Hydrated Pets

    Healthy and Hydrated Pets

    Feeding your pet: How to Keep them Healthy and Hydrated

    With the warm weather upon us, it seems like a great time to get out and enjoy the sun while bonding outdoors. However, while the swimming, basking and hanging around outdoors may seem ideal for people, pets could have a hard time especially with issues such as heat, allergies, and bugs.

    Such a scenario necessitates the need to take safety precautions when it’s hot, whether you are traveling or just at home. With the following preventive care measures, you can get detect future heat problems and ascertain what is necessary to do depending on the condition.

    Dehydration signs

    • Generally, lethargy is the first sign of something wrong with the dog or cat. Some of the other symptoms frequently include
    • Decreased appetite due to the reduction in blood flow to the pet’s digestive tract, slowing down the process
    • Elevated breathing and heartbeat as the heart contracts and attempts to increase oxygen to the body tissues
    • Skin flexibility also indicates a level of dehydration with less skin flexibility evident from rigid and dry nose membrane and lack of the skin retaining the usual shape.
    • Water-seeking behavior is a definite indication of the pet’s need for water, and this can lead to the animal potentially drinking water from unfamiliar places.

    What you can do

    1. Consistent Supply of Fresh Water

    The pet hydration needs should be constant since the average dog or cat is said to need an ounce of water per a pound of body weight each day. It is, therefore, necessary to ensure there are water sources that make cold water available to drink whether if it’s indoors or outdoors during hot weather.

    2. Diet

    Making sure the pet is fully hydrated would mean focusing on changing the diet to suit more moist foods. Such a scenario would entail feeding the dog or cat rehydrated commercial feeds or home-prepared meals over the typical dry kibble.

    3. Vet Visit

    At times the heat may become unbearable for the pet, and in dire situations, any fever or health-related ailment would require professional help. You can set up a checkup for the pet whenever you feel the dehydration symptoms are becoming more evident than usual.

    Overall, these are simple precautions that could play an essential role in protecting the pets during the warm weather. As a matter of convenience, you can purchase pet insurance to cover your pet in any case of emergency or accident.

    Sources: AKCCHF, Animal Awareness, VCA Hospitals

     

  • Avoid Pet Emergencies

    Avoid Pet Emergencies

    Five guidelines to help you avoid Pet Emergency this summer

    While we do attempt to keep fresh during the summer holidays, we should not forget about our pets also. Often they are overlooked even though pets need special precautions, especially during such holidays. Here are a couple of guidelines to help you ensure that your pet is safe and you avoid the vet’s pet emergency room.

    Food scraps

    Most people regard their pets as garbage disposals for practically any holiday leftover. However, as pet owners, there is need to become aware that there is a complete list of foods that could potentially cause severe health conditions for your dog. Therefore it is advisable to be mindful of such foods, and at best keep the dog away from the food or leftovers.

    Staying hydrated

    There is also the need to consider that our pets are sensitive to heat and as responsible pet owners, eliminating any heat stress could potentially help avoid any fatal situations. There is the option of always providing your dog with plenty of fresh water for cooling them off. Additionally, giving shade is still a good option to make your dog comfortable while outdoors.

    Fireworks and Thunder

    Most pets are also afraid of the loud noises, especially from fireworks and thunder. These situations can become quite stressful for the animal, and they create plenty of anxiety for the pet. So it’s wise to always keep a distance between the pets and fireworks. In extreme storm cases, prescribed sedatives for the pet are could help get the edge off.

    Outdoor activity

    A good pet fence is the first consideration to help keep your pet in control while outdoors. Potentially overlooking this could mean possible hit-and-run incidents, or dogfights while roaming. On the other hand, outdoor adventures should at least feature a collar tag with a possible microchip for additional tracking.

    Being prepared

    An excellent way to help improve the care of your dog while away is to always ensure adequate communication with accessible contact with the sitter, kennel or vet in case of an emergency. The pet sitter should also be made aware of any possible health conditions, and dangerous foods.

    In conclusion

    Utilizing these tips could go a long way in helping protect your pet and potentially prevent an unfortunate accident from occurring. Remember, your pet is a part of the family and any planned holiday should consider the possible threats to them. 

  • Avoid Pet Emergencies

    Avoid Pet Emergencies

    Five guidelines to help you avoid Pet Emergency this summer

    While we do attempt to keep fresh during the summer holidays, we should not forget about our pets also. Often they are overlooked even though pets need special precautions, especially during such holidays. Here are a couple of guidelines to help you ensure that your pet is safe and you avoid the vet’s pet emergency room.

    Food scraps

    Most people regard their pets as garbage disposals for practically any holiday leftover. However, as pet owners, there is need to become aware that there is a complete list of foods that could potentially cause severe health conditions for your dog. Therefore it is advisable to be mindful of such foods, and at best keep the dog away from the food or leftovers.

    Staying hydrated

    There is also the need to consider that our pets are sensitive to heat and as responsible pet owners, eliminating any heat stress could potentially help avoid any fatal situations. There is the option of always providing your dog with plenty of fresh water for cooling them off. Additionally, giving shade is still a good option to make your dog comfortable while outdoors.

    Fireworks and Thunder

    Most pets are also afraid of the loud noises, especially from fireworks and thunder. These situations can become quite stressful for the animal, and they create plenty of anxiety for the pet. So it’s wise to always keep a distance between the pets and fireworks. In extreme storm cases, prescribed sedatives for the pet are could help get the edge off.

    Outdoor activity

    A good pet fence is the first consideration to help keep your pet in control while outdoors. Potentially overlooking this could mean possible hit-and-run incidents, or dogfights while roaming. On the other hand, outdoor adventures should at least feature a collar tag with a possible microchip for additional tracking.

    Being prepared

    An excellent way to help improve the care of your dog while away is to always ensure adequate communication with accessible contact with the sitter, kennel or vet in case of an emergency. The pet sitter should also be made aware of any possible health conditions, and dangerous foods.

    In conclusion

    Utilizing these tips could go a long way in helping protect your pet and potentially prevent an unfortunate accident from occurring. Remember, your pet is a part of the family and any planned holiday should consider the possible threats to them. 

  • Tips to keep your dog safe this 4th of July

    Tips to keep your dog safe this 4th of July

    Five tips to keep your dog safe this 4th of July

    Unless you follow the necessary precautions and pet-friendly tips, there are plenty of unfortunate situations that could happen to your dog during a holiday such as 4th of July. Fortunately, we focus on some of the possible threats to your dog and what necessary actions you can take before heading out for the holiday festivities.

    Fireworks

    There is no July 4th without fireworks. But to your dog fireworks are the most significant threat since their hearing is acuter than a human’s. That means the animal can become nervous and distressed by the loud noises. Instead, you should keep them in a safe, quiet and escape-proof area at home.

    Water Safety

    We are aware that dogs are not excellent swimmers, and the festivities always come with pool parties or lakeside events. Whatever, type of water the event is, it is imperative to keep supervising the dog’s activity and ensure it does not drink or swim in any chlorinated pool since the harmful chemicals could cause health and skin problems

    Dog Movement

    Never leave your dog unattended outside, even if it’s on a leash in a fenced yard or kennel. Often dogs become frightened and may run off and become lost or also injured along the way. There is also the risk of the leash or chain getting entangled and potential injury or death.

    Picnics and Barbecues

    Some foods are safe for most of us but not necessarily to the dogs. Some of the dangerous foods could include raisins, grapes, chocolate, and onions. Overall, the best option would be to prepare something in advance for your dog, let’s say a special treat or dog food that they like.

    Outdoors Protection

    Remember dogs do not tolerate the sun as well as we do, therefore a sun umbrella, pop-up tent or some other type of shade for the dog could help it cool off. Also, ensure the dog always has plenty of fresh water during the day to stay hydrated.
    For many, the 4th of July is an excellent time to lounge outdoors with family and friends (inclusive of the four-legged companion. While it seems a like an excellent idea to bring your dog along, it may not turn to become a not so enjoyable holiday. However, the intent is not to encourage you to exclude your dog in fun but to ensure a joyful and safe Independence Day.