Local Value Veterinary

Category: Pets

  • 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.
     
  • How to Prepare Your Home for Guests with Pets

    How to Prepare Your Home for Guests with Pets

    Having guests over is a great feeling, but you would have a lot of considerations to make if they intend to tag along with their fur friends. Hence, you should always prepare to receive guests with pets in an exclusive manner.
    The idea here is to make everyone at your home comfortable around the new-comers, and that would include your pet. But what if your pet isn’t guest friendly? How do you go about it?

    Learn about the Visiting Pet

    We advise that you take time, like a few days before the visit to call your guest and inquire about their pet. What do they like and how do they behave around strangers (both human and animals). That way, you will get a rough idea of how to organize your space and even prepare other family members for a visit.

    Prepare a Spot for your Pet

    Before the visit, organize a place for your pet. For instance, if they like resting near the living room, you can shift them to the hallway for some privacy and avoid conflicts with the visiting pet. However, be sure they are comfortable and used to the spot at least before the big day.

    Let your Guest Corporate with You

    Inform your visitor/s that you also have a pet at home and let them know. By doing this, it won’t come as a surprise when you request them to keep their dog/cat out of the way as yours makes its way to the yard. Also, some people don’t like their pets mixing with others, so it’s important that your guests stay informed.

    Keep your pet Busy

    You can decide to have someone take your canine for a walk during the time of visit to avoid conflicts. Consequently, if that isn’t possible, buy them a new playing machine to keep them wowed. Remember to have their toys within reach as well and check on them often.

    Don’t skip your Pet’s Daily Routine

    Ensure your pet gets on with their daily activities, and this calls for the help of other family members. For instance, meals and toilet visits should be on time to avoid triggering your pet into throwing a tantrum. It could get worse if they feel the “intruder” is receiving more attention themselves.

    Reconsider Those Seat Covers

    It’s more likely that the visiting furry might climb on your seats. So if you are not comfortable with them leaving some scent, you can take your favorite seat covers off.

    COPYRIGHT: Local Value
     
  • Getting Your Dog and Cat Along

    Getting Your Dog and Cat Along

    Getting Your Dog and Cat Along; Simple Tips For Pet Owners

    Over the years the rivalry witnessed between cats and dogs has become an acceptable practice. Because of this, many pet owners prefer adopting either of the two as opposed to both of them at a go. 
     
    However, with your help, this perspective can change. Therefore if you are planning to keep a cat and a dog, you have to put in a little more effort to ensure sanity in your household.

    Consider adopting kittens and puppies at the same time

    We highly advise you to consider adopting kittens and puppies as opposed to grown cats and dogs if you are thinking to keep them under one roof. Since both puppies and kittens are both young and unexposed to everyday reality, it is simpler to modify their relations into getting along from a tender age.
     
    Additionally, going through different phases of life together, getting to play with each other, etc. allows time for bonding which cannot be easily erased even with external influence. However, you will have to teach your puppy how to understand when the kitten is tired as they are more energetic.

    Conduct Some Background Check

    Just the same way you conduct a background check on your employees, we suggest you do the same with pet adoption. Get to know more about your dog/cat’s habits, more so about the other pair. Doing this goes a long way into helping you decide which animal fits your needs. If the cat or dog you wish to adopt relates well with other animals in the shelter, there are higher chances of them getting along with the one(s) you have back at home. Most people tend to assume that most cats are friendly, we urge you not to as some cats prefer having the whole space to themselves.

    Don’t Rush on the Introduction Sessions

    We understand that sometimes you might get too excited to introduce your pets to each other. But you have to slow down. Remember they speak from entirely different angles which can make getting along a bit confusing. So your enthusiasm might not really work for them. Instead, take one step at a time. For instance, you can let them watch each other from a distance for the first couple of days and then get to reduce the range with time. Remember to be present all the time at least until you are sure of them correctly getting along.
     
     
  • 5 Important Questions For Your Vet

    5 Important Questions For Your Vet

    We urge all pet owners to take their companions to the vet but most importantly, to learn how to ask the right questions. Here are five of these vital inquiries.

    1. Is my pet at a healthy weight?

    Human obesity might have the most cases, but pet obesity is just as dangerous to your little helper just as former. Your pet will only add weight if you overfeed it or present it with a poor diet. As such, you need to be stronger when your pet gives you those round, pleading eyes or sagging ears with a sad face in the hope of a slice of bacon.
    Not to mention, you also need to exercise with your pet every once in a while. For starters, dogs require about thirty minutes of exercise every day. Ask us about the ideal weight for your pet and how much food should they be given. If your pet is overweight, ask us about an exercise and diet program but remember to follow it to the letter.

    2. There’s this one thing my pet does that annoys me…

    What most people would think is a behavioral issue in their pets could escalate into a serious problem at any moment. As such, do not shy away from asking us about a particular observation regarding your pet’s behavior. A little barking today can turn into an aggravated assault on a neighbor or your couch if your pet is not examined.
    Never be afraid to ask us such a question considering even us as humans are always trying to change a thing or two in our behavior. Nipping such a problem in its early stages is key to ensuring little to no future, deep-rooted problems.

    3. Is parasite protection medication necessary for my pet?

    Regardless of your location, preventative drugs that aid your pet in fighting off parasitic infections are vital. Parasites such as heartworm are rampant can lead to chronic conditions such as lung disease and heart failure just to mention a few. Not to mention, there are other parasites such as nematode worms that not only affect your pet but people as well.
    This parasite can even cause blindness in children if the latter comes to contact with nematode larvae. As such, we advise you to consult us regarding the best parasitical drugs for your pet, and we’ll offer the best solution depending on your home area and the parasites that are most common.

    4. Does my pet need a blood test?

    The answer to this question is a big yes. We understand this might be uncomfortable for some people as well as their pets but blood samples are vital for us seeing we use them to screen for many diseases including liver disease, cancer, and diabetes just to mention a few.

    5. Do you offer emergency care on weekends and holidays?

    Unexpected events are bound to occur every once in a while in our lives and those of our treasured pets, but some situations leave pet owners helpless. Ask us about our weekend and public holiday policy to ensure your pet doesn’t endure excruciating pain for hours on end before they receive proper treatment.

    Conclusion

    While you’re at it, don’t forget to inquire about the methods of payment and an insurance plan for your pet. Also, ask us about the vaccines your pets need and the necessity of each of them to help keep your pet healthy.
     
  • How to Celebrate the New Year with Your Pet

    How to Celebrate the New Year with Your Pet

    Pets might not be able to speak, but they express their joy in an easily understandable manner. A dog will bark and wag its tail while running uncontrollably while a cat will purr and walk away feeling like the winner in that given situation. On a serious note, as most vets say, the emotional welfare of your pet is as equally important as its physical well-being.

    Your Pet And The New Year

    Here are some of the ways you can make this New Year’s a memorable one for your pet.

    1. Playdate
      Just as we enjoy the company of a friend or a neighbor ever once in a while, so do our pets when they see their fellow species. However, not all pets will be friendly with each other, so make sure they are compatible. Don’t ask your friend who owns a lizard to come over for some pet bonding if your pet is a spider.
    2. Out with the Old, in with the New
      Do you see the excitement on a child’s face when you hand them a new toy? The same feeling is felt by our pets whenever we decide to buy them something new. However, too many old toys do not help with growth or new experiences. Clean out the old toys and make space for the new ones as you usher in the New Year with your pet.
    3. Make Resolutions Together
      Instead of making self-centered resolutions this coming year, include your pet in your plans. Heck, you can sit down and drink some milk while asking for their opinion. While they might not respond verbally, they will surely be excited by the idea of a road trip to the countryside in February.
    4. Exercise
      While it may be a celebration in itself, the New Year is the beginning of another cycle. Use New Year’s Eve as the time to get some exercise with your pet so that you g plenty of rest at night. Not to mention, it is also the ideal time to shed off all the Christmas holiday weight.

    SOURCES: Adopt A Pet, Pet Health Network, Pet Guide   
    COPYRIGHT: Local Value

  • Pet Safety: Top This Labor Day Weekend Tips

    Pet Safety: Top This Labor Day Weekend Tips

    This Labor Day Weekend will be a wonderful time, but it can be stressful and sometimes even dangerous for pets. Here are answers to 5 questions that will help you and your pet have a wonderful Labor Day Weekend.

    How can I keep guests from sneaking food to my pets? 

    Be direct and ask them not to give any human food. Explain that as tasty as it is for humans it can cause severe problems for your animal. If you feel that this request will not effect, then play it safe rather than sorry, and put secure your pets away from the area where guest will be.

    Which foods are most harmful?

    Chocolate, caffeine, alcohol, macadamia nuts, candy, sugar, and foods with high salt content can all be deadly. Consult with us about foods that are particularly hazardous to your animal, and then be vigilant about leaving any of these foods out even for a moment.

    What kinds of plants can cause problems during the Labor Day Weekend?

    Steer clear of poinsettias, holly, lilies, and mistletoe. Pine needles have the potential to puncture the intestines when swallowed. So as much as these plants symbolize the holidays for many of us, your pet’s safety should come first.

    How should we handle all of the extra cords?

    You can tape them down, run them behind furniture, or put them under a rug. Running wires through inexpensive plastic tubing that can be bought from the hardware store is also a great way to limit access to pets and young children.

    What’s the best way to stabilize the tree?

    Build a wooden box on which to place the tree. Use a tree holder that has flat feet. Put a bolt on each foot of the tree holder and screw it down on both sides of each of the feet.

    This will prevent the tree from tipping if Chance (dog) pulls on it, Fluffy (cat) jumps on it, or Rio (bird) sits on it. Anchoring from the ceiling is also possible, but for those who are mechanically challenged this may not be an option.

    Being vigilant about what kinds of products you bring into your is the best way to keep your pets safe.

    The Labor Day Weekend is stressful for people, and for pets as well.

    Make sure that you carve out plenty of time to spend with your pet. And regardless of what you celebrate, sharing the love is what it’s all about. 

    SOURCE: Huffington Post, Vet Street

    COPYRIGHT: Local Value

  • What You Need to Know about Ear Mites in Pets

    What You Need to Know about Ear Mites in Pets

    Ear mites are without a doubt one of the major parasite problems afflicting pets nowadays. Also known as Otodectes Cynotis, ear mites have grown to be quite common and pervasive in the past five years. Usually, most pets (dogs and cats) can tolerate these parasites without any major complications. However, the problem starts if the afflicted pet has a hypersensitive reaction that results in hematoma and excessive skin irritation. In line with this, here’s a quick guide on all you need to know about ear mites. 

    1. What Causes Pet’s Ear Mites?

    Generally speaking, ear mites are typically spread and transmitted via mutual socialization with cats and dogs. Especially if your pets spend a lot of time outside.

    Generally speaking, ear mites are typically spread and transmitted via mutual socialization with cats and dogs. Especially if your pets spend a lot of time outside. 

    2. How Can You Tell that Your Pet Has Ear Mites?

    Physically, ear mites are tiny – almost microscopic. If you’re lucky, you can chance on them as an array of glistening – almost shiny – white dots that tend to scurry away when

    Physically, ear mites are tiny – almost microscopic. If you’re lucky, you can chance on them as an array of glistening – almost shiny – white dots that tend to scurry away when a light is shone on them. But this is just the tip of the iceberg – usually, ear mites hide in thousands deep inside the ear canal, making it virtually impossible to see them without the aid of specialized equipment. To rule out the possibility of ear mites in your fur buddy, visit a vet and let him conduct a thorough otoscope analysis in the pet’s ear canal. It is only this way that you can rule out the possibility of mites infestation.

    3. What are Some of the Common Symptoms of Mites Infestation?

    Some of the tell-tale signs of a possible mite attack revolve around frequently shaking the head, scales, and

    Some of the tell-tale signs of a possible mite attack revolve around frequently shaking the head, scales, and crustings on the neck, excessive scratches and abrasions on the underside of the ears – as a result of frequent scratching. Others include generalized itching especially around the head and coffee ground-like pimples and bumps inside and around the ear canal.

    4. How to get Rid of Ear Mites.

    Since the infection and mites infestation is highly contagious, it is recommended that all household pets be subjected to the same treatment to lessen the chances of cross-transmission. Start by cleaning the pet’s ears thoroughly with a commercial liquid ear cleaner. It is important to ensure that you use the correct formulation – whether you’re dealing with dogs or cats. That being said, the application of these ear parasiticides ought to be repeated every 10 – 14 days until the mites have been eradicated. The same applies to the thorough cleaning and fumigation of the pet’s kernel or resting area. Take advantage of the fact that mites do not survive for long outside a pet’s body.

    SOURCES: Petful, Blue Cross

    COPYRIGHT: Local Value

  • The Little-Known Heartworm Symptoms

    The Little-Known Heartworm Symptoms

    Why You Should Always be on the Lookout for this Silent Killer

    The little-known heartworm disease is caused a parasite transmitted mainly by mosquitos. Although seemingly harmless at first glance, it can quickly gravitate to a life-threatening complication if left untreated for a long time. And all pets ( be they dogs, cats or otherwise ) are still at risk of this ailment, despite the fact that very efficient and potent control and preventive medication are available in the market. Fortunately, however, more pet owners are waking up to the realization that heartworm disease is majorly a surreptitious type of ailment rather than a boisterous one. In other words, you have to pay extra close attention to your pet to catch these symptoms early enough, which most often than not is almost impossible.

    That being said, early signs of an imminent heartworm disease include; slight fatigue and excessive panting. This is then usually followed by extreme exercise intolerance, a stubborn cough that refuses to go away, then eventually sudden death. As you can see, none of above symptoms are exactly exclusive to heartworm disease, which makes the complication even harder to diagnose and treat. And considering that mosquitos usually spread the causative agent, then pets living in the tropics are generally at a higher risk than those in more temperate regions. Unlike you, pets are more exposed to bugs and insect bites hence the likelihood of being infected is also quite high.

    Preventive Measures

    The good news, amidst a haze of an almost hopeless situation, is that heartworm disease is easily preventable. For starters, put your pet on a preventative medication regimen throughout the year, especially if you live in an area that is rampant with mosquitos. Secondly, minimize your pet’s exposure to mosquitos by keeping them indoors especially just after dusk when mosquitos are likely to be feeding. Most importantly, adopt an effective way of eliminating mosquitos around your home’s vicinity by weeding tall grass, draining any stagnant water and making proper use of pesticides.

    Testing and Diagnosis

    Your vet can easily test whether your dog or cat is infected with the disease during the routine annual, bi-annually or monthly check-up. It is advisable to cultivate the habit of testing for this disease regularly especially considering its almost symptomless nature. A negative test, in such occasions, is always a good sign particularly if your dog is already on an all-year round prevention plan. Nonetheless, it is easy to treat heartworm disease if it is caught early enough.

    SOURCES: Petful, Pet MD
    COPYRIGHT: Local Value