Vet News - Emergency Vet Clinic in Brampton, Highway 10

Preventing Cat Fights

Tue, 26 Sep 2017 15:21:00 GMT

Most commonly, cats that are in a different surrounding such as a new home, young cats that are starting to get in heat or any cat that needs to adapt to another territory are more likely to break out and fight.

Hormones

These acts of violence usually appear when a cat has reached social maturity, or between the ages of 2 and 4. This behaviour in males usually gets noticed when he is competing for mates, known as inter-cat aggression. The very first thing you can do to prevent the cat fights from occurring in this situation is by getting your pet spayed or neutered.

New Cat, Same Instincts

Jealousy, often caused when one cat gets more attention than the other, usually it’s the new cat. To prevent this, have some quality one on one time. This stops the feeling of fear that you love them less and provides reassurance. Depending on the breed it won’t be a problem.

Cats are territorial and because of that, new cats need to create its territory in a household and your existing cat will need to defend theirs. This leads to a cat fight. They will both have a spot considered their own, keep them away from the others. Consider getting something they can sleep in, or a cat tree and provide a towel with their scent on it and catnip as well. The “new cat smell” can cause some concern. Again, there is a towel trick. Just rub one cat with a towel and rub the same towel over the other, do this a few times a day to get them comfortable with one another.

How To Stop The Fight Before & During

Start off by getting a large dog crate or cage rather than a cat carrier. In a spare room of your house put one cat in the crate and the other outside to roam around in the room. Also, have a litter box and bed placed too. Leave them alone together, alternate them and do this for about a week. After that process and things seem to have calmed down, let them explore the room together, but keep an eye on them. Praise them and if one misbehaves, place him in the crate again. Keep this up until they can get along. After all is settled they can wonder the rest of the house. This process takes up to a month and will result in a peaceful environment.

While witnessing all these cat fights, you Probably had to step in the wresting box and break things up. One thing you should never do is reach your hand to separate the two cats, this will just hurt you. Using a squirt gun or by tossing some water on them from a distance can help. Try and make sure they aren’t aware that you’re the cause of them getting wet. Loud noises like shacking a jar of coins, air horns or banning things together such as pans will also distract them.

Not all cats fight, or at least not very often. Don’t do anything that will ruin their trust with you, such as chasing them. Patience is the best medicine. In the end, your cats will be calm and collective, until you decide to bring home another to add to the collection.

Helping Your Pets Adjust To The Back-To-School Routine

Tue, 19 Sep 2017 19:23:00 GMT

Cats and dogs tend to crying when we leave their presence because they are unaware of the fast-moving transition. Increase separation, gradually, and praise them when you return. Keep them busy when you are around.

Before Catching the Bus

Provide playful entertainment, so they can rest while you are away. Or leave toys in the room with them, for when their energy switch turns back on. Interactive chew toys are great for such an experience. This keeps them focused, and therefore calm as well. It also stops them from chewing on everything and prevents some sadness of the back to school blues.

When Alone

While away, play calming music, or even turn on the TV. Outside noise will provide a less lonely feeling in the house. Calming chewables or supplements can also be offered to feel as cool as the ice water you’ve had this passing summer.

Back to school shopping doesn’t just have to apply for your kids, check out your local pet shop for a new addition to their toy, treat or grooming collection. As the backpacks are emptied with beach towels and sand and filled with books and lunches, and brains are tested in class be sure to gain your knowledge about your four-legged pal as well.

Dog Of The Month - Akita

Fri, 08 Sep 2017 17:40:00 GMT

History, Tips and Tricks

Originally from Japan, this breed was a powerful hunter of bear, deer and wild boar that only royalty could own. It has also been a tradition to receive a dog statue of the Akita if you were sick. Today the Japanese have been training them to be excellent guard and police dogs.

The Akita’s are tough, athletic and although beautiful also very territorial. They are built for climbing steep mountains and deep snow. They have a high risk for biting something that is strange to them and can be aggressive, much like the Rottweiler. Yet, they are also closely linked to wolfs. Overall, they don’t like to share their space with other animals.

Early training is to relieve some of its defensive behaviour, especially for families. The Akita’s are very caring towards its owners because of their protective instincts. With the right methods, these pets can be a companion for life.

Fur Needs

The soft fur of an Akita is about 2 inches long and comes in all colours and patterns. They are very furry with lots of hair that gets everywhere but grooming is low maintenance. Brush once a week to remove dead hair, especially when shedding.

Fitness Suggestions

Appreciates daily exercise such as a long jog with or without a leash. Exercise is beneficial for these dogs because they become better mannered within the house. Hip, elbow and eye tests are recommended with their visit to the veterinarian.

These energetic fur balls are messy eaters and drinkers, but won’t mess with your heart. Training is required for a family atmosphere but Akita’s are truly loyal.

Rabies In Ontario

Tue, 22 Aug 2017 15:55:00 GMT

Rabies is a disease caused by a virus that attacks the central nervous system and is capable of infecting any mammal. Transmission can occur via nervous system tissue or, most commonly, saliva.

One of the world’s most deadly diseases, with a 99.9% fatality rate, all pets are required to be vaccinated against rabies due to the possibility of transmission to humans.

Already in 2017, 82 cases of rabies have been confirmed in Ontario alone. ( Canadian Food Inspection Agency ).

Learn more about rabies in Ontario from the Ontario Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs.

Rabies In Ontario

Dog of the month – Airedale Terrier

Tue, 01 Aug 2017 15:31:00 GMT

Interesting Info

This breed of dog has a very cognitive mind and they learn quick, and easily. Their intelligence has given them opportunities to work in the military as well as in the white house as a family pet. Although the Airedale’s are very talented they can also be very clownish, but mostly they are entertaining and sweet. They have the largest teeth out of the terriers but that’s nothing to worry about because they make a perfect dog to owners with kids.

Care Taking

The “King of terriers” have a non-shedding double layered coat, but need to be brushed to remove dead hair roughly twice a week. This is because it can feel wiry. A 20 minute walk each day is a requirement. Sometime to run around on their own and be free is also much loved because of their hunting instincts. In Latin, Airedale means earth which gives them the interest to explore what’s around them. They will chase small animals but they adapt to all environments.

Lifetime

The lifespan for these dogs are about 13 years. Based on their structure, health concerns to keep in mind are related to bone and joint issues.

The Airedale Terrier’s love a family lifestyle but are shy around other dogs but still well mannered. A dog like this could become the greatest friend you’ve ever had, perhaps this August.

Picking The Perfect Name For Your Pet

Fri, 21 Jul 2017 16:08:00 GMT

Agreeing with other family members can be the biggest struggle. These tools should help.

Some Options

Think of your hobbies as well. If you enjoy science, elements on the periodic table can be used as a name, like Nickel. If you like to cook, there are foods and desserts that can be used for naming. Some examples are Pickles, Oreo and Pumpkin. If you like to travel, names such as Paris, Denver and Vegas can be used from around the globe.

Together Forever

Create a list of names to choose from and have a family meeting to narrow the list down to one special name. Brainstorming is needed, and Google can be a helpful place to look if you are having any trouble. There is just one mandatory objective, everyone needs to agree.

It’s easier for pets to identify and get used to their name if it is shorter. One or two syllable names are recommended. Speaking of your pet, providing a name based on his or her personality or physical features can be done as well.

Something To Keep In Mind

At all times avoid a name that could offend someone, you don’t want to insult neighbours or possibly the vet.

This sometimes-challenging process is great for letting out some creativity and adds to the family bonding experience. Choose something you can connect too.

Dog Breed of the Month - Afghan Hound

Thu, 29 Jun 2017 19:03:00 GMT

This breed is very majestic and ancient. They are known for their speed. Afghan Hounds actually hunt by speed and sight and not by scent and were bred to track animals like deer and gazelles. They can reach a speed of 65 kilometres an hour. Like a race horse, it’s all in the hips. It is in their nature to chase what they see so a fenced in yard is recommended along with some monitoring. One hour of physical activity a day is required.

This breed is a beautiful pet and it is the supermodel of dogs. The breed’s long hair protects them and is also a signature look. Once a day brushing is needed as well as occasional grooming for less tangled mess. Like their hair, their noses are also long.

Another signature look of this dog is the ringed tail that curls with a point. The shape of the tail does happen to get injured easily because it gets stuck in things, making them sensative to pain. These hounds are healthy and have a lifespan of 14 years.

They are very kind dogs, aren’t very playful and enjoy calm environments and therefore get along best with older children. They are independent and can be described as cat like because of it. If you enjoy running and sharing your hair brush this may be the dog to welcome into your home.

Summer Heat Warnings

Mon, 12 Jun 2017 14:13:00 GMT

Shade for Scooby-Doo

Provide clean and cool drinking water that’s placed near some shade. It is never a bad idea to place several bowls of water, and space for your pet to walk around in the shade. Even placing a chair for your dog or cat to lay under helps provide a shade.

Exercising Caution

Excessive exercise should not be permitted, and go out during the cool parts of the day instead. Take a break from your pet’s fitness on very hot days.

Car Troubles

Never leave your dog along in the car, no matter how long you’re gone. Opening the window does not help cool down your pet as efficiently as you might think, this is very dangerous. This also stops potential calls made to the police, and hearing your license plate number on an announcement around stores your visiting.

If you believe your pet is experiencing heat stress, get him out of the hot environment and spray some cold water or wrap him up in a cold towel, and fan him down. Visit the vet immediately after. Signs of heat stress can include: excessive panting, drooling, red OR pail gums, vomiting and diarrhea as well as seizures and collapsing.

Dogs and cats can’t sweat to lose heat like humans can. They can’t regulate their temperature for this reason, and therefore, they pant. We all need a break from the sun time and time again throughout the day.

Be Your Own Doggy Dentist

Fri, 09 Jun 2017 17:58:00 GMT

Just like you and I, dogs are prone to cavities and although their mouths are said to be cleaner than humans they can still develop tartar, plaque buildup, gingivitis or other problems other than bad breath.

The How and What to Brushing and Toothpaste

Start brushing your dog’s teeth at a young age so there is no discomfort and uneasy moments. Regular human toothpaste cannot be used for your dog because of fluoride which is toxic to them. Go to a pet store to find a brand suited for them, Arm & Hammer has many options. A 45-degree angle double-headed canine toothbrush is what you’ll need to be looking for. This makes it more approachable to clean the gum line. There are also smaller tooth brushes that you can put over your finger. Each products price ranges from $5.00 to $20.00, but can often be found in a set.

To make tooth cleaning easier for you, take some time to exercise with your dog so he’ll be less alarmed through the tooth cleaning process. You can brush half of his mouth to start if there are signs of annoyance. Start slowly because with time it’s something that will just be a routine. During the event, ease the dog by praising him and communicating, perhaps feed a treat afterwards.

Chew Toys and Foods

If tooth brushing isn’t a success or something you don’t have time for there are other ways to help with your dog’s oral health. Crunchy Kibble is better to give because the food is less soft which is than less likely to stick around in the mouth and cause decay.

Don’t provide hard toys for your dog to play with because this can result in broken or damaged teeth. There are many artificial bones and chew toys that have been created to strength the teeth, gums and get rid of build-up for strength.

Vet Visitations

A dog should have a dental examination by a professional every 6 to 12 months. Any of these signs should result in a trip to the vet clinic, although you should look in your dog’s mouth yourself, a few times a week.

Be prepared, because dental concerns can lead to life-threatening infections to the heart, liver and kidney disease. Extend your dog’s life with good dental care. Keep your dog happy with proper care so you’ll both be smiling.

Exercise Essentials

Wed, 31 May 2017 15:25:00 GMT

Best Friends

A pet is most motivated to play and let out some energy when they are in the company of their owner. A playmate is always loved. If neighbours have another dog, go to a park as a group and increase the want to move. Your community might also have some planned activities, or a local dog walker.

Extra Exercise

If you participate in too much exercise at once it can take away the fun and your dog might refuse the next opportunity. Injuries can be caused to their heart, mobility and overall well-being. About 45 minutes of exercise is recommended daily. Find something that excites him and turn it into a habit. Check out and explore some new adventurous walking areas and cheer him on!

Diet

With large meals, all people enjoy a nap, dogs fit into that category too. For their benefit pay attention to the portions you provide them with. It isn’t safe to feed them what you eat, and numerous treats should also be kept in check. Also, try rewarding your pet with praise rather than treats. If your dog is extremely lazy use a treat just to get the ball rolling. A happy voice is appealing where no expectations are raised. Feeling sluggish is never rewarding.

Even take some indoor toys and throw them around for fetching. Some dogs do happen to enjoy walking on the treadmill as well. They might use it more than you. Puppies are easier to encourage so build a routine for its older years. Aim for a good quality of life.

Remember: The yard isn’t as motivating to run around in without a companion.

You can wear a wrist bracelet to track your steps throughout the day, but there is a smart collar invented to track the exercise of your dogs by LINK AKC. Keeping active is valuable for both you and your dog, make the most of (f)it.

Dog Breed of The Month – Affenpinscher

Fri, 19 May 2017 14:46:00 GMT

This dog was bred in Germany in the 17th century as a hunter to get rid of the population of rats in homes. Today they are more like companions. They are known for their short jaws, and pouty look. Their faces look like monkeys because of the pushed in ape look. In German, Affenpinscher translates to monkey terrier, hence the name.

This dog is perky, quirky and very scruffy. The Affenpinscher needs to be combed once or twice a week but nothing excessive is required. Their coats are most often rough and shaggy, and usually black but comes in all sorts of colours. The hair is about one inch long on its body and a little longer on its chest, neck and head to provide protection.

Vet bills could be high for this pooch. This breed is prone to a few health issues. The eyes, teeth, hip, joint and heart issues are most occurring. Their average life span is 12-14 years. They can be mischievous but are good with other dogs and pets.

Training is very difficult, as well as house breaking but they are fine for travelling. Because they are very small and get injured easily they are not recommended for families with small children, but are very energetic and entertaining. They are content with indoor exercise, play and love to monkey around. Their behaviour can also be described as active and curious.

Do you share any personality traits with this dog? If so, think about how perfect the Affenpinscher fits into your lifestyle as an ideal pet for you, but who wouldn’t want a small pet that is as cute as a monkey. If not there are many others to choose from.

Dogs Like Watching TV Too

Wed, 10 May 2017 14:07:00 GMT

Dogs love attention and the time spent with their owners. Even when you’re watching TV they like to be by your side. Is that a coincidence or do they also find entertainment in the shows you watch? Sometimes doing such small things for yourself like watching a TV show or movie keeps you both occupied. Here’s what dogs like about film fests.

Continuous Action

Dogs take interest in the fast paced moving objects and sounds made. The high-pitched and squeaky sounds are familiar and why some chew toys provide them amusement. One show that is recommended is Wipeout. It is quick and random, and filled with sound effects.

The Scenery

Dogs like a watching landscapes presented because it relaxes them. Dogs take pride and love being able to run around freely in the wild, or a field for hours at a time. Don’t let them get so peaceful that they don’t want to go outside and go for an actual run.

Sounds

The stress of hearing a doorbell, vacuum cleaner or a car horn aren’t noises dogs are the fondest of. With the right volume, let your dog experience such things in front of him rather than steps away. This gets them used to real life occasions. Having a dog get familiar with sound, noise and even music prevents them from getting startled by anything that is unexpected to be heard.

It has also been discovered that TV programs are specially coloured to enhance picture details and this helps a dog because they can’t see red or green. Take some comfort in lounging out on the couch with your pet. Maybe get alarmed when the dog looks around the room for a ball that was thrown from inside the television.

Entertain Kevin the Dog When Home Alone

Tue, 02 May 2017 15:02:00 GMT

The luxury of being able to take your pet everywhere you go would be incredible, but it doesn’t exist. Sometimes there is no other option but to leave your dog behind, like work, trips or nights outs. keep him entertained all on its own, hopefully you won’t miss one another too much.

Self-fetching toys

Thanks to technology the ifetch can keep your dog busy when you’re not at home, and provide some exercise. This way they can play fetch all on their own. Any toys can make your dog happy, so lay out something they can chew on before you head out. Also, if you like DIY’s and your dog likes to dig, build him a digging box. Just add some toys for him to find in the box filled with dirt. If you have a fenced in yard, place the box outdoors so there is less of a mess in your home.

Adopt another pet

Sometimes it’s comforting for your dog to have a companion nearby, to benefit one another. Unless the dog has separation anxiety this trick is not recommended. This provides some attention from something lively. Otherwise, have a friend, family member or neighbour or someone your dog is familiar with drop by for a visit. Hiring a dog walker can also be favoured.

Southing sounds

Playing some music or leaving the TV on so the dog can listen and watch to whatever is playing helps him feel like he isn’t fully alone, or it can be calming. Either way the dog has something to be occupied by. Provide a nice view by the window so there is more to look at.

This should keep your pets busy enough so they don’t grab a phone dial his play mates and host a doggy party while you’re gone. Provide extra kindness when you’re back around him though.

Cats Fears of Bathing

Tue, 02 May 2017 14:56:00 GMT

Cats don’t always hate baths, they just have an issue with water and being wet. They constantly clean themselves so it is surprising they don’t enjoying get cleaned by their owners.

The main reason: the fur of a cat isn’t designed to be drenched.

Wet and Wild

Cats fur becomes waterlogged, which is otherwise known as soaked. This weighs them down and creates discomfort. Chemicals used in tap water are also not always liked because of the scent it gives off. Everyone is afraid of trying new things. If a cat hasn’t had any experience in water, they naturally become jumpy.

A Cats Curiosity

You will notice your cat stick its paw into water because of curiosity. This is a completely different feel than being fully placed in the tub or sink full of water. If your cat is testing the waters don’t take it as an ideal move to force him in. This will limit its want to try again, and get near the same experience. Scaring your cat could cause injury to you and him, and lose trust.

Be Calming

Bathing your cat shouldn’t often be required unless strolls outdoors have caused them to get dirty. In this situation bathing sooner is better so there are no hard bits to pull out, leading to pain. Speak to your mouse-catcher as he is pet, and gently ease him into the water. A fast pace will cause a freak out. There is always a sponge bath to wipe down struggling cats. Starting baths as kittens is the most valuable thing you can do, in this position.

Intrigued

If it is a hot day, cats may take pleasure in a bath, it can be refreshing to them. Some cats take pride in hunting. If a fish is swimming in water your sniping friend might be interested in joining, or perhaps accidentally falling in.

Cats are very resistant based on their own natural instincts. If you recall your cat ever fallen in into an amount of water he could have startled himself. Usually they hide after as well.

Can’t Decide Between Owning a Cat or Dog?

Tue, 02 May 2017 14:54:00 GMT

Are you a dog person and a cat person? Most people are afraid each animal will attack one another, but there are successful ways to create acceptance between the two.

A Cat-friendly Dog

Some dogs are naturally friendly with cats and other animals around them. Breeds that don’t mind the company tend to be retrievers, pugs and maltese. Other dogs such as hunting breads consider other animals more as prey. These breeds tend to be huskies, bullmastiffs and greyhounds. No matter what, observe each pet’s behaviour and pay close attention to their temperament. Don’t just blame the dog. Cats hiss and swat for their own protection but could hurt others.

Introductions and Environments

You want each animal to get to know each other slowly. Let both the cat and the dog get used to one another’s scents by placing them each in its own room, that’s divided by a door. This lets them know of each pet’s presence without the need to feel worried. Feed them a meal, and gradually let them come closer in contact starting from opposite ends of the room. A dog is usually strong so putting him on a leash is a safe option during the first meeting. They should always be in a controlled and closely supervised space by you.

Free and Friendly

Start off by letting your cat explore the house without any interactions and interference from the dog. As he is showing comfort, let him explore another part of the room. This also improves getting familiar with scents. If your dog listens to commands its likely he will play nicely with the cat. Try to minimize the amount of jealousy between the two.

Inviting a cat to live with you in your house full of dogs and vice versa can be very welcoming. It may be easier to introduce them than your first thought, especially if they are both young.

Buying an Indoor Bunny

Mon, 24 Apr 2017 14:19:00 GMT

There are many options to choose as pets, whether from a breeder, unexpected litters, or from a rescue shelter. Cats and dogs are most common, but there are other friendly pets to enjoy too. Bunnies can be considered for adoption. Taking care of them is quite similar.

Quick facts about rabbits:

Diet and Feeding

Bunny’s should eat mostly hay or grass, this provides the most nutrients and should also always be available. Vegetables like carrots and lettuce should be provided most often next. Pellets are third on the chain and the last is healthy treats like dried fruits. Unsafe foods are avocados, onions and anything dairy. Bunnies also like to chew on things. Apricot or peach fruit tree branches should not be given.

Home Sweet Home

The housing of a bunny should be at last four times the size of him, for play and exercise. The bigger the better. With space for a bed made of something like hardwood shavings. Drastic temperature change is not healthy, and direct sunlight in drafty areas should be avoided. Also, rabbits can be kept with the opposite sex if spayed or neutered, or same sex if raised together, but without any other small furry pets. Clean their space at least once a week, and let dry before the rabbit enters the habitat again.

Pampering

Brushing your bunny’s hair should be done on a regular basis. They stay clean on their own and don’t need baths often. Using a shampoo designed for bunnies or kittens can be used if necessary. The ears can also by cleaned with a cotton ball, without going into the ear canal. The nails and teeth are also very vital. When they seem too long consult a veterinarian to avoid nails from curling and length of teeth.

Some of the most common female rabbit names are Daisy, Oreo and Bella.

Some of the most common male rabbit names are Thumper, Oreo and Bun.

Hold your bunny by supporting the body, and never pick it up by the ears. Enjoy its social skills and petting such soft fur in your home.

Prepare for the Perfect Pet Photo

Fri, 21 Apr 2017 13:44:00 GMT

Taking pictures of your pet can be a hassle. They move a lot, lose interest and create blurry shots. With these simple steps, it’s easy to capture their cuteness, for a frame, phone or laptop background, and social media.

Photo Ready

Just like us people, dogs look best in natural light. Go outside or stand near a window, so you avoid using flash. White walls also enhance natural light and it removes clutter in backgrounds.
Lightbulbs with a yellow tint do not make for the best photo. Try to plan the shoot during the day, when the sun is out.

3, 2, 1 Smile

For a natural photo get down on your pet’s level, this will provide a better-angled portrait. Animals like dogs get frightened on a slippery surface, so pose them on something like fabric, or place them in their natural setting. For a photo ready pet, take your model out for a walk beforehand to let out some extra energy.

The Love of Treats

Treats are always encouraging. If it’s possible to place a treat on top of the camera so your pet’s eyes are in the right direction, do so. For quieter pets, try training them so that every click means a treat is awarded. Toys can be beneficial too. If your pets are interested in bells or squeaky noises it can also be used to direct them in your direction.

Cheer them on and praise them. Although, their attention isn’t always needed for an adorable picture. Feel free to say cheese but don’t give them any.

At-home Dog Grooming

Fri, 21 Apr 2017 13:40:00 GMT

Learning something new such as grooming will relax your dog, and save you some spending money you can use for treats and toys. You don’t have to be a professional.

Starting point

Begin by washing and brushing the fur of your dog. This helps to untangle any knots and take out anything that could be stuck from play time outdoors. This step prevents pain from occurring when using clippers to cut the hair. You’ll also need a comb and a slicker brush.

Clip and Snip

For a better experience, it is best to find the quietest clippers possible. The style of blades is also important and differs for your dog’s coat. Ask for help from the seller if needed. While snipping away, make sure the clippers don’t get too hot, to prevent burns to the skin. Spray on clipper cooler or lubricant which can be bought, or simply lay the hot blade on something metal to absorb heat. This provides less stress for your pooch and less struggle for you. Keep the clippers sharp to stop hair from being pulled out. Take your time and glide the clippers slowly in the direction of the growth of your dog’s hair for the best results and a smoother coat.

Hair-Be-Gone

The earlier you start grooming your pup, the sooner he will be used to the process and behave for his appointment with you. Hold him still to avoid any movement that can injure him. Start shaving from the dog’s neck to its back legs, then focus on his sides. Don’t be fearful. If needed take one more trip to the salon and have your groomer show you the process. Keep the original look of your dog’s breed in mind, but feel free to be creative as well. Remember, the hair keeps them warm.

Grooming your dog should take roughly 15-20 minutes, depending on the size, length of the hair and the overall enjoyment.

Springtime Dangers for Pets

Thu, 20 Apr 2017 14:44:00 GMT

There’s more to smell now that spring is in the air, and pets might have to re-learn some old tricks in the neighbourhood. Cat fights and “ruff” dog park encounters are just around the corner.

Little BUG-gers

Get your pets protected against ticks, fleas and common bugs. Check with your veterinarian to see which medications are most suitable to your loved ones. Intestinal parasites are found in soil and are also more predominant in warmer weather. Heartworm preventatives fight against these bugs, and occasional stool checks or de-wormers may be required. Be aware of frequent pests such as black flies. They can irritate your dog, and leave itchy red spots. They are more of an annoyance than a danger unless allergies are relevant. Benadryl is usually a great healing aid after stings from bees, wasps, hornets, or spider bites. Be prepared.

Blooming Threats

Keep your pets safe from toxins used for lawn care. Adult cats and dogs are less likely to be harmed by poisonous plants, flowers, shrubs and mushrooms. Although, puppies eat almost anything! Beautify your gardens during blooming season according to your pet’s health. Azalea, rhododendrons and the lilies-of-the-valley are commonly risky.

Watch your kitties and pups play as they enjoy the appearing warmth as you cool down with a drink in your lawn chair. Keep them hydrated this spring and make sure the spring grass buffet isn’t eaten for and extended period of time.

Helpful techniques to Comfort your dog through a thunderstorm

Mon, 10 Apr 2017 13:22:00 GMT

Provide comfort

Try to stay near your dog at all times for comfort. During a storm find a quiet spot in the house for both of you to relax. Providing a blanket to snuggle with or bringing along his or her favorite toy to play with. This is suggested so there is something new to focus on. You can also offer a treat to create a distraction to the loud noises outside. The more you can entertain your pet the more noticeably content it will be. Following these steps will associate that lightning and thunder could be play time, and bring up happy thoughts instead of upsetting feelings.

Discarded some old habits

It is important not to cuddle your pup more than you normally would. The sense that you are anxious will be felt and your furry friend will be more nervous. This will stop its acceptance of getting comfortable with the storm. Looking directly into your dog’s eyes unintendedly forms the sense that something is wrong, so avoid it.

“Want to go for a walk buddy?”

If you know about a storm appearing later in the day, take yourself and your dog for an extra-long walk. This can help make sure your dog can nap through the critical conditions.

Shhh…

Keep the home quiet by eliminating any extra noise that comes from TV shows or music on the radio. Buying a thunderstorm sound CD, to practice and get used to the noises that can be heard can be helpful.

Required Remedies

Certain medications can be given to your dog as well. Such a procedure requires advice from your veterinarian for the best-suited solution, brand, and dosage. Melatonin can calm down and act as a sleep aid for humans, but it also has some benefits for dogs, in a calming way. Your dog won’t fall asleep, but instead be more careless about the thunder that is usually bothersome.

Some severe actions performed by your pet can include destroying furniture, or not wanting to go outside for several hours after a storm. The age of the dog does not affect the ability to adapt to weather conditions. Protect your companion the same way they protect you.

Keep your pets safe this Easter

Thu, 06 Apr 2017 18:53:00 GMT

Keep a close eye on your bunny to make sure he doesn’t escape to hide chocolate eggs, throughout the night. Be more aware that all pets are safe and unharmed by any dangerous decorations in the household.

It is common to set out floral arrangements within the home to elaborate on this special event. Some of these flowers are very toxic when eaten and should be placed somewhere unreachable. Although Easter lilies, cyclamen and amaryllis are beautiful they can cause suffering to your beloved small friend. The poison is in the roots and bulbs. Small portions can result in vomiting, diarrhea, drooling, abdominal pain, and breathing problems. A larger amount has the consequence to cause heart rhyme abnormalities, seizures, organ failure, and worst case death. Your cat’s health is more vital than the lovely sight of flowers.

The foods served at your get together should not be introduced to your pets. Such foods include: Breads, ham, pork roast, and candies. If you are making bread it is very important that your pet does not sniff and nibble on it. Already made bread is not as bad. Typically, when dogs eat uncooked dough the yeast causes suffering and fatal problems caused in the stomach. The stomach acts as an oven because of its warmth, this adds expansion and discomfort. If this happens, surgery could be required. This could also trigger blockage for the blood to return to the heart, creating shock. Ham and pork contain an excessive amount of fat and salt causing an upset stomach. It is known that chocolate is very unsafe for your companion so is the replacement of sugars in other candies, xylitol. When injected lower blood pressure, seizers, commas, and liver failure are commonly known to happen. Keep these products on a high shelf and contact veterinarian medical help in any scary scenario.

Easter baskets can contain wrappers, tinsel, as well as multiple other choking hazards. Be sure to throw out any wrappers, and be cautious to place all gifts in an untouchable space to keep your pet safe.

Keep an eye on your pet this Easter to ensure all goes well.

Methods to Prepare your Pet for Spring

Mon, 27 Mar 2017 20:05:00 GMT

When seasons change, most people start to react to allergies or don’t feel 100 percent at first. Pets also have some things to get accustom too. Certain grass and pollens can cause itching, scratching or sneezing after coming inside, resulting in a needed trip to the veterinarians. With Spring rapidly approaching temperatures will rise and more outdoor activities will begin, and new risks can be a factor to your household pets. As the owner, you can properly prepare your loved ones for the upcoming season.

Never walk alone

As the temperature increases overheating becomes more prevalent. So, walks in the middle of the afternoon are not ideal. During the morning and evening the air will be cooler, as well as the asphalt you perhaps will be walking on. Pack some water to prevent overheating, and watch for excessive panting, and the slowness of your pals walking to avoid a potential heatstroke.

Bone-appetit

Eating and cooking outside is very well known for the warmer weather. While preparing foods on the BBQ be certain your four-legged friend can’t snatch anything it shouldn’t. Foods that can be harmful are garlic, onions and salt. The picnic table should not be left unattended with grapes, cherries, raisins, apricots, avocados, chocolate, alcohol, caffeine, or gum either.

Prevent any Pain

While the dog rolls around in the mud, make sure to garden away any visible foxtail. They are prickly grass-like weeds that can easily get embedded into animal’s paws, or their skin because of tiny sharp and pointy barbs. These little stems are painful and difficult to remove. Avoid the soreness of such plants by removing them from your yard.

Avoidable Ailments

Fleas and ticks can irritate your pet any time of the year, but while they play outside in the yard, it is more common to be affected by them. Clean out their collar daily to reduce any effects. With mosquitos in the area heartworm is more common. Be equipped to introduce a prevention medication if none has been brought up before.

The lead up to the warmer months can be a lot more satisfying by avoiding any harm around your home, or local trails. Prepare your pets for the change in season by taking the proper precautions and enjoy your longer days with some doggy and you time.

From Shy to Sociable For Your Cat

Fri, 17 Mar 2017 15:32:00 GMT

Generally, scared cats feel their best in a calm house without young kids, and for “mittens” to gain more confidence such an environment is most favourable. A tame and timid cat will usually be affectionate with at least one person in the household, but not if it is feral. Typically, these cats have the instinct to keep their distance and like the outdoors. Kittens can become fearful depending where they were born and raised. With patience, cat caretakers can help create a more approachable personality for their little mouse hunter.

Provide your cat with some toys, and when you notice him or her playing with it, be nearby and watch. Proceed to slowly get closer until an unhappy expression is performed, and stay where you are. Planning scheduled play sessions can also be helpful. When creating a routine, a sense of interaction can encourage confidence around one another. Another fun trick to liven up your kitty is to tie a string, ribbon or belt around your ankle. The cat might follow you, and freely want to discover what’s attached to you. If he or she is curious enough, stand still and let the investigation continue.

Safe and sound

It is important to never let your cat feel like there is no safe place to be in the house. If your cat is alone and relaxed in a hiding spot do not try to pull him out of there. This would go against its will, causing him to run away, attack or avoid you by hiding in a more confined space. Overall control of their surrounding is very significant to his/her future friendship. Some encouragement and soft chatter while low to the ground, or even foods can reassure bravery to visit you. This will appear as a positive interaction.

Pur-fect procedures

A cat’s trust can rely on how their needs are treated. Scooping out their litter box once a day, feeding them and interacting with them on a consistent time schedule will help them to admire you. Being pet gently from a side angle around the head and in-between the ears should not be threatening, but do not be forceful. This will reassure him or her to be less startled throughout the day. Loud noises and staring can startle your cat as well, and they may require you to walk around them from a further distance.

Cats have their own pace to feel calm enough to communicate with you, don’t rush it, especially if they are adults. Some scaredy cats are just more private than others.

What You Need to Know Before Adopting a Pet

Mon, 13 Mar 2017 18:25:00 GMT

Paws

Never make an impulsive decision to become a pet owner. Think it through and make sure this is the best decision for you. There are many factors to consider. The first step is to research the animal you have the most interest in. Find out common health issues, behaviour types, and energy level or if a special needs animal is best suited for you. It’s all about a new lifestyle where time management, proper living conditions, and great care are expected. The hours you work, a busy social life, and multiple trips away are all factors that need to be thought about.

Dog Years

Dogs and cats usually live up to 10 - 20 years. Their life span is a long-term commitment, and should not be taken in just because they are cute. Depending on your dog, lots of exercise can be required. This will need you to give up some of your free time to go for a walk or run, a few times a day. Be prepared to clean up after him or her as well, but training is key.

Payments for your pooch

There can be many costs involved while owning a pet. Typically, vaccinations are ongoing and the choice of neutering is another expense. Furthermore, the payments needed to care for your dog are close to your own. A soft place to sleep, food, accessories like a collar and leash, play toys and uncalled for health checks and vet bills are priorities. Sometimes, terrible accidents can result in emergency treatment. A sufficient income is a requirement to ensure you can offer the help needed.

Being able to offer much loved human company and dependence must be accommodated. Most shelters are also happy to gain an extra helping hand. If you enjoy the company of animals and if volunteering interests you or anyone you know, check and see if there are any nearby locations accepting your kindly offered time. Donations for more comfort and temporary fostering an animal is also an option to benefit others.

Keeping Your Dog Safe On Winter Walks

Wed, 28 Dec 2016 20:06:00 GMT

Dogs, in particular smaller breeds with their bodies closer to the ground and those with shorter coats are just as vulnerable to winter chills and frostbite as humans so it is up to us as responsible pet owners to give them the protection they deserve.

Winter Jackets

Boots

Clean The Salt and Chemicals off Your Dog

If your dog will not wear boots, give your dog a thorough rub-down with a clean towel before they come inside. Dogs can easily ingest antifreeze, salt, and other chemicals by licking it off of their feet and legs. Salt and chemicals will also irritate their skin if left alone for too long.

Signs Your Dog is Too Cold

Just like people, dogs can experience frostbite and pain from staying out in the cold too long. Pay attention to what your dogs are telling you and bring them in if they show any of the following signs.

If it is too cold to go out on a walk, Click Here for tips on how to exercise them indoors.

New Year’s Resolutions for You & Your Pet

Wed, 28 Dec 2016 19:44:00 GMT

Measure your Pet’s Food - Every Time!

Many owners “eyeball” their pet’s daily intake, usually resulting in overfeeding and weight gain. Use a measuring cup to ensure your pet isn’t eating more calories than they need. Research feeding guideline on the bag to figure out how much your pooch or cat really needs.

Try a New Activity with your Pet

Incorporate your pet into your new exercise routine. It’ll get you both out of the house, and both owner and pet will get a healthy dose of physical activity.

Incorporate More Playtime into your Routine

Toys that trigger a cat’s predatory instinct are a great way to get them off the couch and engaged in a little aerobic activity. Experiment to see what really gets your cat going — lasers, catnip toys, crinkly balls, and climbable cat trees.

Make a Date with Your Vet

Yearly examinations with your vet are a key component of good preventive care. Many medical conditions such as diabetes, arthritis, or obesity are common in aging pets and are easier to manage when detected in the early stages of the disease process. Veterinary visits are also the perfect time to ask for advice on how to be a better pet owner.

Groom Your Pet Daily

Grooming your pet daily removes excess fur from the coat, reducing the amount you find on your clothes and furniture.

Practice Good Oral Hygiene Habits

Brush your pet’s teeth daily to prevent plaque and tartar build up, just be sure the toothpaste is meant for dogs and cats. Schedule regular cleanings by a licensed vet, the best way to keep your pet’s mouth in good health.

Update Pet ID Info

If any of your contact information has changed in the past year — update your pet’s tags and microchip information today! It’s the best way to ensure a lost pet makes their way safely home.

New Year’s Eve Tips for Pet Owners

Wed, 28 Dec 2016 19:43:00 GMT

New Year’s Eve is a time of celebration around the world, but it is also a night of high anxiety for pets, with fireworks, loud music and horns. To help your pet get through the noisy night, consider these tips.

Create a Safe Room

Many Pet’s have a favourite hiding place where they go when they are frightened. Know your pet, place them in a room where they can not hurt themselves or damage your belongings.

Use Positive Noise to Distract Your Pet

Try using a distracting noise to help cover up the alarming sounds. Calm classical music can help to relieve many animals’ anxiety. Turn the music up to a comfortable volume; enough to drown out some of the loud party sounds, but not too loud to be disturbing to your pet.

Exercise Your Pet to Calmness

Exercise your pet’s as much as they can handle and hopefully, when the noise starts, your pet will be too tired to get very stressed out by it.

Distract Your Pet With Toys and Games

Give your dog or cat some food puzzles to play with during the time when there will be a lot of noise, or get a few new toys for them to play with.

Make Sure Gates and Fences are Secure

It’s best if you do not allow your pet to be outdoors on New Year’s Eve. The fireworks and other out of the ordinary sounds may be scary for dogs and cats. If you do allow your pet outside be sure that your gates or fence is secure and that your pet is on a leash

How to Keep Your Dog Entertained Indoors During Bad Weather

Wed, 28 Dec 2016 19:40:00 GMT

Run Up & Down The Stairs

Stand at the top of the stairs and toss a toy down to your dog. When they grab their toy, call their name to bring the toy back. Try for a few rounds to give them a good workout.

Set Up an Obstacle Course

Find objects inside the house that can be improvised to help your dog get some exercise. Try using cushions to build tunnels for your pooch to navigate or using old hula hoops for them to leap through.

Hide & Find Treats

Hide some of your dog's favourite treats around the house and let your pooch track each of the treats down.

Try out the Treadmill

After helping your dog get comfortable with the device, put him on the treadmill and turn it on the lowest possible speed.

For additional exercising tips and tricks, contact your local veterinarian today.

November Is Pet Cancer Awareness Month

Thu, 24 Nov 2016 20:34:00 GMT

It's not just many humans that suffer from the terrible onset of cancer, but too often pets as well.

Each year in November we shine a light on pet cancer to raise awareness, and Pets Plus Us pet insurance company is raising funds for the Ontario Veterinary College Pet Trust to help find a cure.

Learn more about the OVC Pet Trust.

Share their Facebook post below in November and Pets Plus Us will donate $0.50 to OVC Pet Trust.

The Veterinarian-Client-Patient Relationship

Wed, 02 Nov 2016 19:33:00 GMT

The Veterinary-Client-Patient Relationship (VCPR) is the basis of veterinary medicine and animal care in Ontario, as per the College of Veterinarians of Ontario.

The VCPR focuses on animal well-being, with both the Veterinarian and practice as well as the pet owner sharing in the responsibilities of care.

For more information about the VCPR as detailed by the CVO, visit their site or ask your veterinarian today.

Your Relationship With Your Veterinarian

Get The Cat Owner's Handbook

Tue, 13 Sep 2016 18:12:00 GMT

A Cat Owner's Handbook

Following up on our last entry, the Cat Owner's Handbook is essential reading for any new or existing cat owners.

The OVMA, the largest veterinary association in Canada, aims to help educate new and would-be pet owners on how to help your cat live a long, happy and healthy life.

Select the cover to download the Cat Owner's Handbook.

For more information on any of the topics contained in the handbook, ask your local veterinarian

Get The Dog Owner's Handbook

Tue, 30 Aug 2016 15:09:00 GMT

A Dog Owner's Handbook

Whether you've added a new dog to the family or are considering doing so, this booklet is for you.

The OVMA, the largest veterinary association in Canada, aims to help educate new and would-be pet owners on how to help your dog live a long, happy and healthy life.

Select the cover to download the Dog Owner's Handbook.

For more information on any of the topics contained in the handbook, ask your local veterinarian.

Finding A Local Veterinarian

Fri, 19 Aug 2016 17:18:00 GMT

Do you have a local veterinarian taking care of your pet's health and wellness?

If you don't and aren't sure where to start, the College of Veterinarians of Ontario provides a search tool that lets anyone search for licenced veterinarians and vet practices in their area by address.

Locate information such as a veterinarian's practice address, their licence status, and contact information.

Locate A Veterinarian In Your Area

Heatwave! Keeping Your Pet Hydrated

Wed, 03 Aug 2016 15:08:00 GMT

As pet owners, it's up to us to make sure that our pets have regular access to clean water to help combat the forces of dehydration, which can be a significant threat on hot summer days.

Why Good Summer Hydration Is Essential:

Maintaining The Right Balance In The Body Is Vital

As with all animals, most bodily functions and processes are dependent on the proper balance of H2O and other chemicals, and imbalances can cause the body to begin to shutdown.

Avoiding Heatstroke

Drinking water is an essential part of staving off heatstroke, a real danger for pets during heatwaves, by helping to regulate body temperature, heart rate and blood pressure.

Whether at home, on the road or on a walk, bring water for both yourself and your pets, especially when it's hot out. For more questions about good hydration or how to spot heatstroke, contact your local veterinarian today.

Puppy-Proofing Your Home

Fri, 22 Jul 2016 18:44:00 GMT

It's always best that puppies are supervised when not in a crated area of your home but there are important additional considerations to keep in mind.

Help them play safely by puppy-proofing your home, starting with some of these tips:

Keep These Off The Floor & Out Of Reach

Secure These Additional Items For Their Safety

For additional puppy-proofing tips and tricks, contact your local veterinarian today.

What Exactly Do Outdoor Cats Get Up To?

Thu, 07 Jul 2016 18:19:00 GMT

The Secret Lives Of Cats

If you have a cat that likes to head outdoors you've probably pondered how they spend their time there.

Well now you don't have to wonder any longer, as National Geographic has solved the mystery. By attaching a "Kittycam", they have found out what your feline friends are probably doing when they are outside.

Does your cat like to spend time outdoors?

If so, make sure to visit your local veterinarian to ensure that your cats' vaccines are up to date. Call yours today to book an appointment.

Is Eating Grass Okay For Your Dog?

Mon, 04 Jul 2016 17:51:00 GMT

There has so far not been a single identified cause for grass eating in dogs, rather there are myriad contributing factors to this behaviour, some harmless and some destructive.

Nausea

Some dogs will turn to grass eating to induce vomiting, eating it quickly and expelling shortly after. In this case, grass eating should be discouraged, as it is important to instead see a veterinarian to discover the underlying cause of and prevention of the stomach upset.

Enjoyment

Some dogs chew grass to just savour the flavour, a fairly harmless practice when done in moderation in a safe environment. Dogs that do it for the enjoyment generally don't vomit afterward. Keep in mind that this behaviour should only be permitted in environments where the safety of the dog can be guaranteed, where there is no risk of ingestion of pesticides, herbicides or fecal matter of other animals, which can lead to the spread of disease.

Diet Supplementation

If dogs are missing some essential nutrients in their diet they may turn to other sources. If not enough fibre is present in a dog's diet they may attempt to fill the void with grass to aid in healthy digestion. Review your dogs diet with your vet to ensure that it is well-balanced and they are receiving all of their essential nutrients.

Training Them To Stop

If you need to put an end to grass eating there are options available to you make the transition easy and low-stress for both you and your pet.

Understand whether your dog is especially food-oriented or attention-oriented and make this the reward for the desired behaviour of leaving the grass alone.

Remain with the dog while they do their business or play, while you are ready to distract and reward with treats when a dog considers eating grass. While on a walk, use the "heel" command if it is in your dog's repertoire, which will bring them back to attention at your side should they stray to eat grass.

Understanding Why Your Dog Is Eating Grass

If you're not sure why your dog is eating grass and would like to find out if it could be a sign of an underlying condition, book an appointment with your local veterinarian today.

Taking On The Fat Cats

Fri, 20 May 2016 17:16:00 GMT

For most breeds of cat the ideal weight is around 10 lbs, though the real figure can vary slightly by breed. Maintaining their ideal body weight is an essential part of keeping your pet happy and healthy for a lifetime.

Feline obesity is a significant problem in many homes and can be tricky to manage if not approached properly. Left unchecked, several health issues may arise from long-term obesity, including:

Four Factors To Implementing A Successful Diet

1. Enter into diets slowly rather than implementing drastic changes as this can cause a shock to the liver of a cat. A slow introduction of a diet allows for a period of adjustment that is much healthier and less strenuous.

2. Consider a change from dry to canned food. Wet food has more protein per serving than dry foods tend to and has the added benefit of increasing your cat's fluid intake. Specific weight loss foods can also be acquired from or be prescribed by your veterinarian.

3. Keeping your cat active through play is an important part of weight reduction as well, helping to use stored calories and also regulate appetite.

4. Portion control is essential to ensuring feline diets have a chance at success. Know exactly how much your cat is eating by using a measuring scoop and regular meal times, it establishes a routine and provides better regulation than free-feeding.

Get The Skinny From Your Vet

To learn more about feline obesity, find out what your cat's ideal weight should be and whether or not a diet change may be in the best interest of their long term health, contact your local veterinarian today.

Top 5 Dog Myths, Debunked

Tue, 12 Apr 2016 18:01:00 GMT

#5 A Dry Nose Indicates A Sick Dog

This is untrue. The moisture level of your dogs nose is unrelated to its state of health. A dogs nose can change from wet and cool to warm and dry in minutes. It is completely normal, and has far more to do with the weather and humidity than with their health.

#4 Can’t Teach An Old Dog New Tricks

Again, this is untrue. Dogs can learn new tricks at any age. In fact, learning new things will help to keep your dog active, and his mind sharp.

#3 Dogs Can Eat Anything

Dogs can detect the same bitter, sweet, salty and sour tastes as humans, but the way they perceive it may be different. Dogs only have around one sixth of the number of taste buds as humans, and it is probably that they gain more information about food from the way it smells. Regardless of their attraction to pungent foods, feeding your dog that leftover takeout is a bad idea.

#2 The Puppies Experience

Many people justify waiting to get their pet spayed because they believe that their dog needs to have one litter of puppies ‘for the experience. They don’t. Allowing your dog to have a litter of puppies will only result in you struggling to find homes for them. Your dog will not miss an experience she never knew she could have.

#1 Dogs Only Wag Their Tails When They’re Happy

Typically, the wagging of your dogs tail does suggest excitement and happiness, but not always. Sometimes a wagging tail can indicate fear, aggression or even be a warning.

Introducing Cats to Dogs

Tue, 29 Mar 2016 15:13:00 GMT

Keep Them Separated

If you are bringing a new pet into your home, it’s important that they adjust to the new space without the added stress of other animals. A closed bedroom with scratching posts, toys, food and water, and a litter box is the perfect option for a new cat. However, dogs need to roam and so the ideal thing would be to keep your existing cat in a separate area while you train your dog.

Placing some of the other animal’s personal items in the new pet’s space during this time will help them to become acquainted with each others scents, which will reduce the stress of the first meeting.

Keep The First Meeting Quick

When you’re ready to introduce your cat to your dog, ensure the initial meeting is quick - around 10 minutes is perfect. Keep the dog on a leash, and allow the cat to roam around and venture as close to the dog as they choose. Use a halter on your dog if you feel that they may not be completely under control, and be sure to reward them for good, calm behaviour.

Gradually begin to increase the amount of time your pets spend together. Once you feel comfortable, allow your dog to also move around freely. Keep the leash attached so you can quickly regain control if necessary.

Consider Your Pet’s Personalities

If your cat has lives with dogs previously or is confident around other animals, you are likely to have an easy transition. If your cat hisses or runs from other animals, you will have a more difficult time.

If your dog is playful but not aggressive, he will have an easier time adapting to a cat. If your dog lunges, growls or is difficult to control they may never adapt to a cat, and it would not be safe to introduce them. If this is the case, you should consult your veterinarian before doing anything.

Supervise, Supervise, Supervise

Keep your pets separated until you are fully confident that they pose no threat to each other when you are not directly supervising them. The safest way to do this is to keep your dog in a crate, or provide your cat with a safe place where they can escape the dog. This could be a separate room with a cat door installed, or even just a cat tree to climb.

Brush Up on Your Dog’s Skills

For your cat to feel safe, your dog needs to be under control and should know basic commands such as ‘leave it’, ‘sit’, and ‘stay’. Before the first meeting between your animals, ensure you spend time practising these commands and rewarding good behaviour. When your dog first sees your cat, ask him to sit.

When cats run, dogs chase. If you let him chase your cat, then chasing your cat will become his favourite activity. It is important to avoid this at all costs. Be patient - it may take weeks or even months for your pets to be comfortable with each other.

DIY Easter Pet Treats

Tue, 15 Mar 2016 15:38:00 GMT

If you love to bake and would like something to share with your pets this Easter, why not experiment with some delicious home made treats for your furry friend?

Peanut Butter Doggy Biscuits

Ingredients:

2 Cups Flour
1 Tablespoon Baking Powder
1 Cup Peanut Butter
1 Cup Low-Fat Milk

Directions:

Preheat oven to 375 degrees. In a bowl, combine Flour and Baking Powder. In another bowl, mix Peanut Butter and Milk. Add wet mixture to dry, and mix well.

Turn out dough on a lightly floured surface and knead. Roll out to 1/4 inch thickness and cut into shapes. Place on a greased backing sheet and bake 20 minutes or until lightly browned. Cool on a rack and store in an airtight container.

Beef and Cheddar Doggy Biscuits

Ingredients:

1 Cup Rolled Oats
1/3 Cup Unsalted Butter, cut into pieces
1 Cup Boiling Water
¾ Cup Cornmeal
2 Teaspoons Granulated Sugar
2 Teaspoons Beef Bouillon Granules
½ Cup Milk
1 Cup Shredded Cheddar Cheese
1 Egg, beaten
3 Cups Whole Wheat Flour

Directions:

Preheat oven to 325 degrees F and line two baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone mats. In a large bowl, pour the boiling water over the oats and butter. Stir briefly and let stand for 10 minutes.

Add the cornmeal, sugar, beef bouillon, milk, cheese, and egg to the bowl; mix well. Stir in the whole wheat flour, one cup at a time, until a stiff dough as formed.Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead, adding additional flour if necessary, until the dough is smooth and no longer sticky.

Divide the dough in half. Working with one half at a time, roll the dough out with a rolling pin to ½-inch thickness. Cut with a cookie cutter and space evenly on the prepared baking sheets. Re-roll the remaining dough scraps and continue cutting until all the dough is gone. Bake 35-45 minutes, until golden brown. Remove to wire racks to cool completely.

Why Does My Cat Do That?

Tue, 01 Mar 2016 16:30:00 GMT

You know your pet better than anyone, but there are always some behaviours that will make you wonder ‘Why Do They Do That?’

Why Does My Cat Purr?

Cats purr when they are content and happy, but also when they are scared or in pain. The frequency of this sound has been linked to stimulated healing and bone growth, and it is widely believed that endorphins are released when cats purr. Therefore, in addition to the obvious communication that occurs when a cat purrs, it can also improve their overall well being.

Why Does My Cat Knead Things?

This one is pretty simple. Kittens knead things as a way of showing contentment, and because the movement helps their mothers milk flow as the nurse. As cats start to mature, the kneading remains a sign of contentment, but is also used to mark their territory as cat’s perspire through the pads on their paws.

Why Does My Cat Bite Me?

Love bites, also known as petting-induced aggression, can be a confusing behaviour. However, it is simply their way of asserting themselves, and their position in the household. There may also be some neurological stimulus associated with being pet in certain areas or for longer periods of time. There is no need to fear interacting with your cat, simply try learning to recognize the warning signs before your cat starts biting.

Why Does My Cat Eat My House Plants?

Sometimes this behaviour will come from simple curiosity or boredom. Other times, cats notice leaves that flutter and assume it’s a toy. Grass and some other plants will act as a laxative or purgative for your cat, which will help with the passage of hairballs, which could be another reason they're so interested in consuming plants. The last possible explanation is that of a learned behaviour, where your cat has realized that playing with plants will get your attention.

Chocolate Toxicity

Tue, 16 Feb 2016 16:30:00 GMT

So Valentines Day is over and you took advantage of those 50% off chocolate sales ... Read on to learn more about Chocolate Toxicity in dogs and what to do if you suspect your furry friend has found your stash!

How Much Chocolate Is Still Considered Safe?

If you know how much (and what kind of) chocolate your dog has eaten, it should be pretty easy to determine if they're in danger. Generally, the darker the chocolate, the more toxic it is. Dark, bitter baking chocolate can be up to 8x more toxic than milk chocolate, while white chocolate is typically of little concern.

What Does Chocolate Do To Dogs?

Chocolate contains the chemical Theobromine, which stimulates the heart and nervous system while relaxing smooth muscle.

A low dosage of chocolate can cause symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhoea, panting, hyperactivity, restlessness, and an increased heart rate.

In higher doses, chocolate can cause neurological symptoms such as tremors, seizures, coma and even death. Often, more dangerous symptoms will take a few hours to manifest.

What Do I Do?

If you suspect your dog has eaten chocolate, take them to the vet immediately. If the chocolate was consumed within the last hour, inducing vomiting quickly will solve the problem. Your veterinarian will be able to do this safely.

Can I Induce Vomiting at Home?

There are many methods used to induce vomiting, however some are almost as dangerous as the chocolate itself. If you do it wrong, the problem may get worse.

Typically, we would not recommend inducing vomiting yourself.

If the chocolate was consumed more than an hour ago, inducing vomiting will likely not help. Err on the side of caution, and seek treatment.

Dogs have an amazing sense of smell, and they tend to be very experimental with what they consume. Play it safe, and keep the chocolate well out of their reach!

For more information, check out this awesome Toxicity Calculator!

*Disclaimer: this calculator is a very simplified tool, and will not account for the individual sensitivities of your pet. You should always consult your veterinarian if you think your dog is showing symptoms related to consuming chocolate.*

Should I Consider Crate Training My Dog?

Tue, 19 Jan 2016 16:30:00 GMT

Think back to a time before dogs were domesticated. Wild dogs, wolves, and foxes often exhibit similar behaviours, such as the creation of a den.

A den is a dog’s safe haven, the place they retreat to when they are feel frightened or threatened, it’s where they go to eat and where they raise their young. In your home, your pet’s crate becomes their den. Scared of thunderstorms? Lay in the crate and feel safe. Owner’s busy with guests? Head to the crate for a nap.

Another reason to crate train is one every puppy owner understands: housetraining. If you have your puppy in a properly sized crate while unsupervised, potty training can be much easier. Properly sized would be large enough to stand up, turn around, and lay down comfortably, but not too large or they will choose one end to relieve themselves, and one end to play and nap.

Crate training will keep your puppy safe while unsupervised. Puppies are like toddlers - they will put anything in their mouths.

Lastly, crate training your dog will make kenneling, boarding, and even visits to the vet or groomer easier. Groomers sometimes use crates to house their clients, and vets will use them before and after surgery and for observation. If your dog is used to be enclosed in a crate, they will be far less stressed out when the groomer or the vet need to put them in one.

Check back in two weeks when we answer the Top 3 Crate Training Questions !

Help Your Pet Lose Weight This New Year

Tue, 05 Jan 2016 16:30:00 GMT

It’s very tempting to spoil a pet. We love them like part of the family, and there’s no way for us to resist! However, sometimes overindulging our pets can lead to problems.

An overweight pet is at risk of several medical conditions that can greatly impact their quality of life. including;

Even if your pet doesn’t suffer from these conditions, research shoes that when food intake is managed properly, our pets are likely to live longer.

Here are some suggestions to help you in managing your dogs diet;

Try these techniques to help your cat lose weight.

It’s not easy to put a pet on a diet. They can be quite convincing when they want more food. It is important that you persist because it will be very good for them in the long run.

Christmas Gifts For Dogs & Cats

Tue, 22 Dec 2015 16:30:00 GMT

Christmas is about family, which of course includes your furry friends! Check out these awesome stocking stuffers for your pets!

Cats

Dogs

Of Cats & Fish

Tue, 15 Dec 2015 17:00:00 GMT

The practice of feeding our cats fish doesn't make a lot of sense, from a natural history point of view. Domestic cats evolved from desert-dwellers, and the last time I look, the deserts of the world were not abundant with fish. The African wildcat, the most likely ancestor of today's house cats, eats primarily mice, rats and rabbits with the occasional bird or reptile thrown into the mix.

Now, I'm not refuting the idea that domestic cats like fish; most of them certainly do.

However, fish isn't always the optimal food for cats. When a cat eats a diet that consists mainly of raw fish (not foods that contain fish), they are at risk for developing a thiamine deficiency. Symptoms include loss of appetite, seizures, and even death. Thiamine can be broken down by heat, but is added to cat foods after processing to ensure that it is present in reasonable amounts. It is important to know that manufacturers of canned tuna meant for human consumption do not add thiamine to their products. This means that while it is fine for a cat to eat small amounts of canned tuna as a treat every once in a while, if it makes up a large part of their diet, they too will be at risk for thiamine deficiency.

Believe it or not, fish is also responsible for a large percentage of food allergies in cats. In one study of 56 cats with identifiable food allergies, fish was a responsible allergy in 13 of those cats, which makes up 23% of those cases. This puts fish in third place for potential allergic reactions, right behind beef and dairy products.

Now that I think of it, beef and dairy aren't really 'natural' parts of a cats diet either, are they? Hmm ... maybe we're on to something here.

Now, I don't mean to imply that all cat owners should avoid feeding foods that contain fish to their cats. As long as the cat is not allergic to fish, and it is included as part of a nutritionally balanced diet, fish is a good source of protein. I just find it kind of interesting that domestic cats have developed a love for a prey that wasn't a major part of their ancestor's diets.

Improve Your Cat's Health By Letting Them 'Hunt' For Food

Tue, 01 Dec 2015 17:00:00 GMT

The biggest problem facing most cats today are boredom, inactivity and obesity. Think about it - we've taken a species whose ancestors spent countless hours each and every day collecting enough food to survive, and moved them indoors with near constant access to food that never tries to escape from them.

The solution to this problem is simple; promote an activity that every cat enjoys - hunting! Now, I'm not saying to ship your cat outside and let him bother the birds, or to introduce some mice to your home, but there are some simple enough changes that can support a cat's natural inclination to hunt.

Have Several Feeding Stations

Make your cat move for their food! Divide their meals into multiple small servings, and place them in different areas around your home. If your cat has no issues with mobility, you can even get creative and place food on different levels, requiring them to use stairs, jump, or climb for their meals.

Feed Multiple Meals Throughout The Day

When cats are left on their own, they tend to eat 8-10 small meals per day (think of the barn cats chasing mice). While that number is difficult to reach for most cat owners, even increasing the number of meals from 2 to 4 can have a significant impact. To avoid over feeding, try placing the amount of of food for the day in a container (including treats too) and make sure that everyone knows that when the container is empty, the cat is done for the day.

Buy A Puzzle Feeder

A quick search online will reveal all sorts of puzzle feeders designed for cats. You can find variations on the traditional kibble-loaded ball with holes that dispense food as it rolls. However, there are also more elaborate puzzle feeders are also available, including machines with tubes of various heights or numerous compartments that have to be reached into or opened to reveal the meal. Rotating through different types of puzzle feeders will keep a cat's interest better.

Play Hunting Games

Teach your cat a trick like fetch the cotton swab and reward them with treats, or make sure he watches while you place a few pieces of kibble on the floor and cover them with a thin cloth. What does he do when you slowly drag the cloth away? What does he do when you quickly throw the cloth away?

Cats need to 'hunt' to stay mentally and physically sharp. With a little creativity, cat owners can find simple ways to support this normal cat behaviour and ward off boredom, inactivity, and obesity.

Getting Your Cat To Drink More Water

Tue, 24 Nov 2015 17:00:00 GMT

Water is the most essential nutrient for all living things, including cats. Healthy cats generally meet their water intake needs through a combination of drinking water, and consuming water present in foods. Maximizing water intake is an important step in the treatment and prevention of several common illnesses such as obesity, kidney disease, and bladder stones.

How can you go about getting your cat to drink more water?

Top 5 Tips For Feeding Kittens

Tue, 17 Nov 2015 17:00:00 GMT

Stop Cats From Clawing At Furniture

Tue, 10 Nov 2015 16:30:00 GMT

Cat owners need to understand that although this behaviour irritates us, to them it is perfectly normal. Cats claw for many different reasons; to mark their territory, to sharpen their claws, and to stretch their muscles. Scratching is a basic need for all cats! They're not clawing at your furniture out of spite or anger, they're simply clawing because they're a cat!

Fortunately for you, there are some things that you can do to discourage your cat from using your furniture as a scratching post! Here are some tips!

Once your cat is using the alternative scratching surface regularly, you can slowly move it to a more acceptable location, if desired. Remember to move the scratching surface a short distance at a time, so as to not confuse your cat. You can also remove the runner or whatever deterrent you used to make the original area unattractive to your cat.

Households with more than one cat require a separate scratching area for each cat. Scratching surfaces are an essential basic need for felines, and your cat will likely not be willing to share.

Pet Insurance: Is It Worth It?

Tue, 03 Nov 2015 16:30:00 GMT

The Short Answer: YES!

The hardest part of a veterinarian's job is trying to balance the fact that we want to save every animal that walks in the door with the fact that we need to be able to pay our rent, our employees, and ourselves.

As the care provided to your pet evolves, the costs for emergency procedures, surgeries, and unforeseen situations can get quite expensive. Having pet insurance will take finances out of the picture when you need to make a difficult decision as to what the next step is when it comes to your pet's treatment.

Yes, there is always a chance that you will pay for insurance and be lucky enough to have a perfect, healthy pet that will never need to cash in on it, but if things happen to go the other way, it would be horrible to be forced to say goodbye to your friend because your financial situation won't let you treat them.

The best time to get pet insurance is when you first get your pet. If you have ever been through applying for insurance yourself, you know that if you have been to a doctor for a specific problem, that problem will be excluded from what is covered. Hopefully, at your first routine checkup you will have a healthy little friend who will have no exclusions on their policy.

We try to have this conversation with all new pet owners, and many have come back to thank us months or even years later after an emergency has come up, and they had the insurance to pay for the treatment their furry friend needed. There are lots of companies out there who offer insurance for pets.

Call your veterinarian to discuss which company, and which policy would be best for you and your best friend!

Getting Your Cat To Take Medicine

Tue, 27 Oct 2015 15:30:00 GMT

Liquid Medications

Place your cat on a flat surface, with their hindquarters against your body. Have the medication drawn up into the syringe prior to this. Use your free hand to tilt your cat's head up slightly. Place the tip of the syringe in the back corner of your cat's mouth, squirting the medication into the space between the cheek and gums. Be sure to reward your cat with a favourite treat afterwards!

Pills or Capsules

Place your cat on a flat surface, with their hindquarters against your body. Using one hand, steady your cat's head and tilt it slightly upward. Hold the pill between your thumb and forefinger of the opposite hand. Use your middle finger to open your cat's mouth and slide the pill down the center of the tongue to the back of the mouth!

An alternate way to give pills is to use a pill gun (a device use to hold the pill so you don't get bitten) to place the medication on the tongue at the back of your cat's mouth. Continue to hold your cat's head slightly tilted with their mouth closed until you see the cat swallow. Reward your cat with their favourite treat afterwards!

If your cat struggles, or tries to scratch you, wrap a thick towel around your cat's neck and front legs to protect yourself from your cat's claws!

For pills or capsules, another option is to hide the medication in food or a pill pocket! Try putting the pill in the middle of a ball of canned food or a piece of cheese and give it to them that way!

Sometimes, medications come in alternate forms as well.

If you have any questions about medications, and how to get your cat to take them, call your veterinarian for help!

Thinking Of Getting A Dog?

Tue, 20 Oct 2015 15:30:00 GMT

Dogs make great companions, and can create a bond like no other. However, bringing a new life into your home is not just about having something cute to cuddle with! Here are 6 things you need to consider before getting a new dog!

Planning To Fly?

Tue, 13 Oct 2015 15:30:00 GMT

Larger animals may need to fly in the cargo area, which can be very stressful for both your pet and for you. This option should only be considered if absolutely necessary. In this case, it may be better to leave your pet with a trusted pet sitter.

For Cats and Small Dogs, travelling in the cabin with their owners is an option as long as your pet is in an airline approved carriers for carry-on travel. They are usually made of a soft, durable material which makes it easy to fit it underneath the seat in front of you on the plane. Always label the carrier with your name and contact information as well as the number for your veterinarian. Another good idea is to include any special instructions if your pet takes any sort of medications or requires any specific care.

Once you are on the plane, you may be allowed to open the carrier to check on your pet and give them some treats or water, or to offer a comforting touch! This is by far the best way to ensure their safety and comfort, as they will be with you for the entire trip.

The Dreaded Task Of Nail Clipping

Tue, 06 Oct 2015 15:30:00 GMT

Despite it's importance, many people don't like to trim their dog's nails. It's a task that can make both dogs and their owners anxious. How do you know where to cut the nail? What if you trim the nail too close and hurt your dog? What if your dog seems worried? Trimming your dogs nails can be a daunting task, but follow these guidelines and you can consistently be successful.

The Two Keys to Nail Trimming Success

No matter what kind of dog you have, you can make nail trimming pleasant if you keep these two main ideas in mind!

The Nail Trimming Process

If you are finding that nail trimming is not for you, give your vet a call and set up an appointment to have your dogs nails trimmed. If your dog seems significantly anxious at the veterinarians, ask the technician to teach you how to trim your dogs nails, and to ensure you feel comfortable taking care of your pet at home.

Doggy Body Language

Tue, 29 Sep 2015 15:30:00 GMT

Knowing how to read and interpret what a dog is thinking based on their body language is a great way to know how to behave around them, to keep both them and yourself safe.

Here is a simple to follow guide.

Behaviours Of A Happy Dog

Behaviours Of An Anxious Dog

Behaviour Of A Dog Preparing To Bite

Behaviour Of An Aggressive Dog

Puppy Provisions

Tue, 22 Sep 2015 15:30:00 GMT

Young animals are especially sensitive to dietary needs, and owners need to pay close attention to what food they provide during a dog's first year of life.

So, what are the special nutritional needs of puppies?

Calories

Puppies require a more calorie-dense food than would be necessary for the typical adult dog. High quality puppy foods have around 445 kcal per cup while an adult food of the same caliber would have around 375kcal per cup. It doesn't seem like a huge difference, but the extra calories are very important in the long run!

Nutrients

Check out this infographic about minimum nutrients requirements for puppies compared to adult dogs! You can see that puppies need more of many important nutrients than adult dogs do.

For example, quality diets should contain high levels of certain Omega 3 Fatty Acids to promote Healthy Skin, a Glossy Coat, and to optimize Brain & Eye Development!

Owners of large breed puppies have additional issues to consider while picking out foods: Developmental Orthopaedic Diseases.

Abnormal growth rates are a major risk factor for Hip Dysplasia and similar conditions.

Diets designed for large breed puppies should have a lower fat content and therefore a lower caloric density than diets designed for small and medium breed puppies. Eating foods with too much calcium and phosphorus increases the odds that a large breed puppy will be affected by a developmental orthopaedic disease.

Whether your puppy is going to be the size of a Mastiff, or a Chihuahua, make sure you pick a food that provides balanced nutrition for this unique time in their lives, and that is made from the wholesome, natural ingredients necessary to encourage a lifetime of good health.

If you have any questions about which foods to feed your puppy, contact your veterinarian for advice!

Avoiding Hairballs

Wed, 16 Sep 2015 03:25:00 GMT

Many veterinarians like to think of hairballs in the same way they do vomiting. Is it normal? No, but it is something everyone has to deal with occasionally.

If you're finding hairballs more than once a month, it's time to go in search of what's wrong.

If you're only finding the occasional hairball and want to try some at-home remedies to reduce their frequency, the best way to do this is dietary management. Undiagnosed food allergies or inflammatory bowel disease often play a large role in the formation of hairballs. These conditions cause inflammation in the GI tract and reduce the cat's natural ability to deal with hair that is swallowed. To deal with this, you will need to purchase a limited antigen food from a pet store, and feed it (and nothing else!) to your cat for atleast 8 weeks to know if it's working. If you've tried these over the counter limited antigen diets and they didn't work, try asking your veterinarian what they recommend or distribute.

Another way to deal with hairballs is by imposing a high fiber diet. Fiber can help sweep hair through the digestive system and promote overall digestive health. Some pet food manufacturers have added fiber to their formulas and now make a "hairball" pet food that works well for some cats. If you are looking for a way to introduce some fiber into your cats diet without buying new food, try mixing a little canned pumpkin into their current food!

Lubricant gels that contain waxes, oils, or petroleum jellies are another good option. These gels will coat the hair that is introduced to the GI tract and prevent it from clumping together. While you can't force your cat to eat a hairball lubricant (the stress and potential messiness will outweigh any benefit), you can mix it into their food or apply a little bit to their paw for them to lick off.

And lastly, the simplest and non-dietary related hairball remedy. Brush your cat (assuming they will let you). All hair that you can toss in the garbage is hair that won't eventually to coughed back onto your floor.

Can My Dog Eat This?

Tue, 08 Sep 2015 15:30:00 GMT

When Dogs Bite

Tue, 01 Sep 2015 15:30:00 GMT

Now, you might not have known you were asking for but, realistically if you were educated about what you were doing wrong, you may have been able to avoid the trauma. Although the random dog mauling does happen, and is scary, it is very rare. The majority of dog bites occur with familiar dogs in everyday situations.

Who cares, you ask? Well, the majority of these bites are preventable! Most children don't know that they are behaving in an unsafe and threatening way, and dogs don't know what to do when children ignore the warning signs that they try and send out. This means it is up to adults to control the situation, which happens less often than it should.

Look no further than the internet: hundreds of adorable photos of babies with their head right next to a dog. If you look closely, these dogs are exhibiting all the signs of a stressed out animal. Typically they are

Children don't understand the meaning of these behaviours. It is up to parents and dog owners to teach them about these warning signs and the basics of interacting safely with dogs.

Although many people who have been bitten say that they never saw it coming, there are multiple videos on YouTube of dogs biting people where it is clear that both the handler and the victim are ignoring the warning signs.

Dog bites are dangerous, painful and scary. They result in many otherwise wonderful family pets being sent to animal shelters, or being euthanized. Learning about dog bite prevention keep both you and your animals safe.

Are You Feeding Your Dog The Right Way?

Tue, 25 Aug 2015 15:30:00 GMT

Most dogs respond best to Amount Limited feeding, with some Time Limited thrown in. By controlling the amount of food your dog consumes, you have the best chance of meeting the optimal health benchmark.

Keep an eye on how long it normally takes your dog to finish his or her meals, you can identify health problems that negatively impact appetite in their earliest stages when treatment will be most effective and least expensive.

If your dog tends to graze through the day, there is no need for you to pick up the bowl between meals. Just watch how much food remains in the bowl before you add more. If it begins to increase, your dog's appetite is decreasing.

You've spent a lot of time learning how to pick the right food for your dog. Accent that by learning about the right way to feed your dog!

Are You Feeding Your Dog The Right Amount?

Tue, 18 Aug 2015 15:30:00 GMT

One of the best ways to keep your dog healthy is to feed them the right amount of food!

Too little and your dog can suffer from nutritional deficiencies, and too much will eventually cause obesity and the many health problems associated with obesity.

Unfortunately, there is no easy way to know how much your dog needs to eat. Determining the amount of food to give your dog will depend on the type of food you feed your dog, how many times a day they are fed, how big they are, their metabolism, the amount of exercise they get, and many other factors. But you can figure out an approximate amount of food that should work for your individual pet, or you can ask your veterinarian.

If you're wondering how much your dog is supposed to be eating, start by checking the feeding guide on your dog's food label! They are usually presented as a table, with Weight of Dog and Amount Per Day being the categories on the columns.

Keeping in mind that these amounts are the total food your dog should consume in a 24 hours period. Seeing as adult dogs generally take 2 feedings a day, and puppies usually require 3 or 4, you will need to divide this amount by the number of feedings your dog gets per day.

Use this information combined with your knowledge of your dogs life to find the initial amount of food you should be offering. For example, if you have a 35 pound corgi who is not very active, maybe start with 2 cups of food per day. If you have a 35 pound Border Collie who is constantly moving, start with a little more.

Next, use a scale or body conditioning system to fine tune the amount of food your feed your dog. Check your dog every 2 - 4 weeks, and record the results. If your dog is gaining or losing an inappropriate amount of weight, adjust your food portions accordingly. In general, healthy dogs tend to:

Remember, each time your change dog foods, you will have to go through this process again.

If you have any concerns about your dogs health and diet, ask your veterinarian. They will be able to help you determine the correct amount of food to feed your dog based on the specifics of your dogs case!

Food Allergies In Dogs: Fact or Fiction

Tue, 11 Aug 2015 15:30:00 GMT

Myth #1: Generally, dogs are allergic to corn, wheat, soy and other plant-based ingredients.

In reality, dogs are usually beef, dairy, and other forms of protein. A study was done in which 278 cases of food allergies in dogs were tested to find the problem ingredient, and protein sources were found to be responsible for 231 cases!

Myth #2: Changing the brand of food you feed your dog will help with their allergies.

Dogs are allergic to specific ingredients, not brands. If your dog is allergic to beef, you need to look very closely at the ingredients list and find a food that is completely beef free. Most pet foods will contain more than one source of protein and carbohydrates. For example, it is not unusual for a food labeled 'Chicken and Gravy' to also contain beef.

Myth #3: If you have never changed your dog's diet, it is unlikely that they have an allergy.

Dogs can develop food allergies at any time in their lives, regardless of dietary history.

Myth #4: If your dog is allergic to their food, they will have diarrhea.

Symptoms of food allergies change from dog to dog. Some dogs have intestinal issues, such as vomiting or diarrhea, but not all dogs. Other symptoms include itchiness (resulting in excessive biting, scratching, or licking), and recurring infections. Food allergies cannot be ruled out, simply because your dog is not exhibiting intestinal issues.

If you suspect your dog may have a food allergy, consult your veterinarian. They can help you find a food that will keep your dog's symptoms under control, while still ensuring that your dog maintains a balanced diet, essential for supporting good health.

Pet Food: Dry vs Canned

Tue, 04 Aug 2015 17:00:00 GMT

Do you feed your pet dry food, canned food or a little bit of both? Both dry and canned foods can be an excellent choice for a balanced diet, so often times it simply boils down to what you and your pet prefer. Here are a few fast facts about food to help you make your decision!

Dry Food

Generally, dry food is cheaper than canned food. So if money is tight, buy a dry food made with wholesome ingredients.

Dry pet food is also much easier to store, as well as to clean up. With canned food, you have to make room to keep it in the fridge, and there's usually some cleaning to be done (the bowl, the floor, even the pet sometimes). In fact, some dry foods are specially made to clean your pet's teeth and promote oral health!

Canned Food

Very few dogs will turn down the opportunity to eat wet food, when if they have been picky about eating dry food in the past.

Canned pet foods tend to have more water and less carbohydrates than dry food, which can be beneficial under certain circumstances.

Although most people exclusively feed their dogs one or the other, many veterinarians actually recommend a mixture of both. Depending on your preferences, you can primarily feed your dog dry food, with just one or two canned meals per week, or you can feed your dog canned food every day with a layer of dry food sprinkled on top!

The most important thing is that you discuss your options with your veterinarian. Your pet needs a well-balanced diet that benefits their lifestyle and health. This may mean dry food, canned food, or a mixture of both.

Whatever you choose, it's important to pay attention to the added calories when feeding your pet a mixture of canned and dry food, in order to avoid weight issues!

Puppy Teething Tips

Tue, 28 Jul 2015 17:00:00 GMT

Contrary to popular belief, puppies don't teeth like humans. While they do lose their 'baby teeth' around 3-9 months old, the actual destructive chewing (also known as 'puppy teething') is usually due to behavioural issues, not the teething itself. These behavioural issues need to be dealt with early.

Designate Teeth-Free Zones
Don't tempt your puppy with yummy furniture and shoes! Block your puppy's access to areas that contain chewable items, then work on training your puppy to not chew at all.

Use Doggy Chew Toys
Introduce age-appropriate chew toys early and save your precious household items. Chew toys specifically designed for puppies tend to be smaller and softer than toys made for adults, because puppy teeth are more fragile. These toys should still be durable enough to handle aggressive chewing. When playing with your puppy, remove any destroyed chew toys immediately to prevent accidents.

Incorporate Healthy Eating
Caring for a teething puppy requires also caring for the puppy's teeth. Make sure your puppy is eating a properly balanced diet, including vitamins and minerals such as calcium. This will allow their new permanent teeth to develop normally.

Remember, having two teeth crowded into a space meant for one can cause discomfort and possibly bring out some destructive tendencies in your puppy.

Baby Proofing The Dog

Tue, 21 Jul 2015 17:00:00 GMT

Obedience Training

Before your due date gets too close, take some time to refresh your dog's basic obedience skills. Your dog should be able to 'sit', 'stay', and 'wait', while also understanding a basic 'place' cue, which would send them to a specific spot (such s their bed). These cues will be very helpful in ensuring that your dog is not always underfoot, and can help with impulse control.

Buy The Right Supplies

You've probably done a ton of shopping for your new baby, but do you have the right equipment for your dog? You should have a fixed-length leash (4-6 feet), instead of a retractable leash, because you may need to tether your dog to a piece of furniture if his 'sit' and 'stay' needs work! Baby gates aren't necessary for your child right away, but your dog will benefit from having boundaries for a little while. A comfortable bed to act as a home base for you dog will hep the transition greatly, as will a variety of treat-dispensing toys. These toys can act as a babysitter to occupy your dog when you can't!

Stroller Training

Some dogs are frightened by the movement of stroller so take your time and introduce your dog to yours slowly. Set it up, let them smell it, and move it forward slowly. Drop some treats a few steps away from it so they begin to associate it with good things. Try taking a walk with your dog, giving him treats for walking nicely beside the stroller. If he seems scared, go back to the initial steps and start over.

Introduce The Baby Schedule

It's impossible to predict a newborn's daily patterns but you should do your best to mimic what you think your new schedule would be, to help your dog adjust to what will soon be happening. For example, if your dog gets fed and walked at the same time every day, try mixing it up a little bit so that a delayed meal or exercise wont be stressful for your dog. Finally, try not to smother him with extra love and attention to overcompensate for the future, as the shock to his system will be much greater afterwards.

Praise Good Behaviour Around The Baby

Dogs are naturally curious so it makes sense that he will try and get close to investigate this new person in his space. watch him and praise good behaviours, such as backing away when you ask him to and sitting nicely instead of jumping up to see the baby. Also, make sure that your dog's flea and tick medications are safe for close contact with newborns. If you have any questions concerning your dog and your new baby, your vet will be able to provide you with some great advice.

Children that grow up around dogs form special bonds with their furry friends. The initial adjustment to caring for both a baby and a dog can be challenging, but rewarding. Taking the appropriate steps from the beginning will make the process a lot less stressful.

Family Friendly Felines

Tue, 14 Jul 2015 17:00:00 GMT

Studies show that children who grow up with pets tend to be more caring and empathetic towards other people and animals, as well as being more outgoing with better communication and social skills.

Never choose a cat based on looks alone, always meet the cat and ask questions beforehand. These 5 Cat Breeds are known for being calm and loving, making them the perfect addition to your child's life!

1. Birman

Birman cats are smart, and therefore relatively easy to train. This breed loves both giving and receiving love, and they wont run off and hide when company visits! Usually, they like to greet every guest personally. This is not a breed of cat for active children who will want to play games with their pet, but rather is recommended for helping children practise their reading skill by reading aloud to the cat while sitting quietly together.

2. Ragdoll

Ever wonder how this breed got it's name? When picked up, these cats go limp - like a ragdoll! This makes them the perfect breed for children! Gentle and quiet, Ragdolls love attention but will not demand it. All they need a little fun before dinner, and then they will enjoy a calm evening cuddling while your children read or do homework.

3. Himalayan

Himalayan cats fall into that easy middle ground where an evening game of laser tag is all the activity they want before they're ready for quiet, relaxing couch time! This breed does very well indoors and loves to give and receive affection equally. This cat will bond with you and your children, and will love you for life!

4. Maine Coon

The Maine Coon is extremely patient with active children, always willing to play a game and ensure your child gets some exercise. This cat breed has a very calm nature, which will help to temper the mercurial nature of children. This cat is an excellent cuddle buddy for long winter nights.

5. Exotic Shorthair

This breed of cat has an easy-going, laid back personality which acts as a soothing presence to help your family wind down at the end of the night. Offering a quiet 'Welcome Home' to your child when school ends, all they require is a little bit of play time each night, followed by a warm lap to snuggle on and some soft caresses to lull him to sleep.

Treating Heat Stroke In Dogs

Tue, 07 Jul 2015 17:00:00 GMT

Playing fetch, going for walks, and just being outside is great in the summer, but can prove to be uncomfortable for our furry friends!

Last week, we discussed how to recognize the signs of heatstroke in your pet! Similarly, knowing how to prevent, as well as how to treat heatstroke in dogs is essential in those hot summer months when everyone loves to be outside with their pets!

Treating Heat Stroke In Dogs

There are a few at home methods you can use to cool down your dog's body temperature while you call a veterinarian.

Preventing Heat Stroke In Dogs

An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.

As always if you have any concerns, check with your veterinarian first!

Recognizing Heat Stroke in Dogs

Tue, 30 Jun 2015 18:54:00 GMT

As we come into the hottest part of the summer, we need to begin thinking more abut our furry companions and how the heat impacts them! Dogs become overheated very easily, which can lead to severe health issues! If you notice your pet exhibiting any of these behaviours, contact your veterinarian immediately!

For more information on how to recognize heat stroke in your furry friend, contact your veterinarian today!

#NoHotPets

Tue, 23 Jun 2015 14:53:00 GMT

Every year pet fatalities occur when animals are left in hot vehicles.

The Ontario SPCA is once again running their award-winning online initiative #NoHotPets, which aims to educate the public about the severe dangers of leaving pets in cars during the summer, even 'just for a minute' while they run errands.

Guardians who choose to leave their pets in a vehicle may face criminal charges under the Ontario SPCA Act, or the Criminal Code of Canada.

Pets do not sweat, and so they are much less able to cope with extreme hot temperatures than we are. Heat stroke is swift to set in, leading to a number of deaths each year.

Just because windows might be open on a vehicle does not mean that the temperature will not rise to potentially deadly levels. If your pet is showing signs of heatstroke, call your local emergency veterinary clinic immediately.

For more information on how dangerous it is to leave your pet in a vehicle, view the OSPCA's #NoHotPets Fast Facts .

Spread The Word. Take The Pledge . Visit nohotpets.ca today .

If you do see a pet that has been left in a hot vehicle this summer, contact the Ontario SPCA or local humane society or call the police.

Resources

Ontario SPCA
Call: 519-310-7722
Email: cruelty@ospca.on.ca
Visit: ontariospca.ca

Community Contacts Directory For Local OSPCA & Humane Society Branches
View the Directory

Help Your Pet Cope This Fireworks Season!

Thu, 18 Jun 2015 14:07:00 GMT

With Canada Day fast approaching, it's time to start thinking about safety precautions and comfort for your furry friends!

Small Pets

Smaller animals such as rabbits, birds, Guinea pigs, or Hamsters are easily frightened. When fireworks are being let off, they needed to be treated with extra care. A few precautions to help these animals through the Canada Day festivities include;

Dogs and Cats

For more Information about Pets and Fireworks, Check Out This RSPCA Download !

Eco-Friendly Pet Care

Thu, 11 Jun 2015 16:00:00 GMT

Have you ever wondered about reducing your pet's impact on the environment? Here are 5 ideas to help shrink your carbon paw-print!

These are our favourite ideas from the Canadian Veterinary Medical Association!

Looking for more eco-friendly pet tips? Visit CVMA .

1. Bathing Your Pet

Using low or no-phosphate biodegradable pet shampoo is an easy way to make your pet care routinemore environmentally sustainable! Whenever possible, avoid bathing your pet in bodies of water to prevent phosphorus, body oils and dirt from entering rivers and lakes.

2. Recycling Pet Toys

If out-grown or out-of-fashion pet clothes and toys are still in good condition, recycle them by making sure they are clean, and then donating them to your local pet shelter or humane society, or sell them to another family so their pet can enjoy them!

3. Purchase Smaller Bags Of Pet Food

Buying smaller bags of pet food will reduce waste by ensuring that the food is consumed before it expires. Feeding expired food to your pet is not ideal, as key nutrients begin to break down during storage.

4. Buy Accessories Made From Sustainable Materials

Avoid plastic when shopping for accessories for you pet. Look for collars and leashes made of cotton, hemp, or other sustainable fibres.

5. Try Natural Compounds For Cat Litter

Maximize your use of recycled materials but using pelletted shredded paper, or even grain in place of store bought cat litter. Clumping litters are not good to flush down the toilet for many reasons.

For other suggestions on how to be environmentally-friendly while raising your pet, ask your veterinarian today.

Natural Methods For Preventing Fleas In Dogs

Thu, 14 May 2015 20:03:00 GMT

Each of these methods works best in conjunction with a flea or parasite protection prescribed by a veterinarian. Treatments such as Revolution are not only flea protection, but will also provide a more broad scope of care;

Now, Here Are 9 Natural Tips For Flea Prevention!

Tip #9 - Outdoor Difficulties
If your dog spends alot of time outside, it will be more difficult for you to control fleas naturally, as they may already be strongly established in your yard, and possibly in your house. You may need to alternate methods used in the yard, and in the house.

Tip #7 - Comb It Out
Using a flea comb will allow you to physically pull the fleas off of your dogs body. You will need to ensure that you get as close to the skin as possible, but the comb will most likely pull on your dogs hair, so work slowly and gently. Make sure there is a bowl of soapy water beside you so you can drown the fleas as you remove them. Concentrate on areas fleas like to hide; the groin, armpits, and the base of the tail.

Tip #6 - Go To The Groomer
If you have a dog with longer hair, flea combing will be difficult. You might want to consider having their hair cut short for flea season.

Tip #5 - Don't Forget The House
Fleas lay eggs. These eggs are usually found in your dogs bedding, and deep in your carpet. This means that cleaning and combing your dog will not treat the entire flea population, so you need to ensure you clean and treat your household and yard as well.

Tip #4 - Vacuum
While dealing with fleas, you will need to be very diligent in cleaning both the interior and exterior of your house. You may want to have your carpets cleaned professionally to remove most of the deposited eggs and larvae. However, eggs and cocoons can be in corners, and remain dormant for a surprisingly long time. You will need to vacuum every surface of your house every few days and ensure that you dispose of your vacuum bag at least once a week. You will need to wash all of your dogs bedding almost as often.

Tip #3 - Home Remedies
One home remedy that is suggested is sprinkling Borax (a boric-acid like product usually sold as laundry detergent) on your carpets. Borax works to dry out fleas outer body and kills the larvae and eggs that are in your carpet. This product is very strong and you should test an area of your carpet first, as it can abrade carpets. Be very careful using Borax around your dog. Before sprinlking the Borax, vacuum all of your floors well, and then make sure that the powder has enough time to sink deep into the carpet before you vacuum again.

And finally,

Tip #1 - Consult Your Veterinarian
Be sure you consult your veterinarian before using any products to control fleas, even those labeled as 'natural' Always err on the side of caution, and ask before using something around your home, family, and pets.

The Importance of Dog Licensing

Wed, 06 May 2015 16:09:00 GMT

Dog licensing is a very important aspect of ensuring the safety of your pets. A dog licence must be renewed annually for a $20 fee, however the many benefits associated with a dog licence far outweigh the cost of the licence itself.

Some Benefits of Licensing Your Dog …

For more information on dog licensing, click here .

Understanding Canine Influenza

Tue, 05 May 2015 15:02:00 GMT

What strain of flu is at cause?

What can you do to keep your dog safe?

Has your dog been exposed to the flu?

Is your dog currently sick?

For more information, the Canadian Veterinary Medical Association recommends the following article, entitled ‘ More On Canine H3N2 Flu ', by Scott Weese from the Ontario Veterinary College at the University of Guelph.

An Update On The Imported Jerky Treat Saga

Sat, 25 Apr 2015 18:27:00 GMT

The US Food and Drug Administration has issued an official update on the situation regarding imported jerky treats from China that have been making pets ill.

View Our Initial Story

Read more to view information from the latest release by the FDA as well as context by veterinarian Dr. Jennifer Coates.

Travelling With Your Dog Over March Break

Thu, 05 Mar 2015 15:22:00 GMT

Some dogs though, particularly the young, get car sick on long journeys, so what can be done to make their trip more comfortable?

Getting Used To The Experience

One cause for car sickness in dogs is the anxiety that accompanies a ride in the car. Help to alleviate this unease by getting them accustomed to being in the car first, and secondly taking short trips around the block frequently but with increasing distance. Once they know that a trip in the car is not a cause for concern or great excitement it can make a world of difference in their comfort levels.

A Dose Before You Go

There are many natural and safe over-the-counter options available for reducing motion-sickness in dogs that are available to you. To find out which options are right for your pet, ask your veterinarian.

For more suggestions on how to keep your dog comfortable during long trips in the car, contact your veterinarian today.

Need A Veterinarian?

Wed, 25 Feb 2015 20:14:00 GMT

The Emergency Vet Clinic in Brampton, Hwy 10 is here to assist those whose pets require emergency intervention while their regular veterinarian's office is closed.

Some pet owners though, particularly new ones, may not yet have a regular veterinarian lined up to provide ongoing health and wellness care for their pet.

To find a non-emergency veterinarian in your region, look up your town in the Directory of Veterinarians & Hospitals today.

Understanding Antibiotics & Your Pets

Thu, 05 Feb 2015 21:25:00 GMT

Antibiotics are an integral part of battling many biological infections suffered by both humans and pets. Their applications run a gamut of combating infectious disease to aiding recovery after surgical procedures.

There can be too much of a good thing, however, which begs the complicated question, when does a pet need to be treated with antibiotics and when should they not be?

This is, unsurprisingly, a question best answered by the treating veterinarian as a host of factors can influence the decision on whether to prescribe antibiotics or not.

A Growing Resistance

In recent years the world has seen a growing number of bacterial strains that have evolved to be resistant to current antibiotics. This was able to occur in no small part because of the inappropriate prescription and application of antibiotics.

Exactly What It Says On The Tin

If your veterinarian has prescribed antibiotics for your pet, it is vitally important to follow the labelled instructions exactly. This not only ensures the health of your pet but also reduces the opportunity to develop antibiotic-resistant strains of bacteria.

Does your pet seem healthy before the script is completed? Finish the prescribed dosages all the same.

A Gut Feeling

If your pet is undergoing antibiotic treatment, it is not only going to combat the harmful bacteria but also the helpful as well.

Our guts are filled with bacteria that play an essential role in keeping us healthy on a day-to-day basis and the same goes for our pets. Antibiotics deplete these good bacteria just as they do the bad so your vet may also outline a prebiotic and probiotic regimen for recovery.

Maintaining a healthy level of gut bacteria is also important to ward off future disease, combat illness, and aid in development. For this reason, antibiotics are used sparingly in very young animals and pregnant mothers.

If you have questions about antibiotics and your pet, contact your local veterinarian today.

Top 3 Recommendations To Good Pet Oral Health

Thu, 05 Feb 2015 21:18:00 GMT

February is Pet Dental Health Month.

Poor pet dental health impacts more than just the smell of their breath, it also contributes to their overall health and wellness.

Oral health / dental care is the #2 vet-recommendation resulting from routine exams (2013 Canada’s Pet Wellness Report, CVMA), and that’s ahead of deworming, parasite control & vaccinations.

What many pet owners often don’t realise is that taking a proactive approach to their pets’ oral and dental care helps to reduce instances and even prevent some very major health problems that can be brought on as a result of poor or lack of maintenance.

Conditions that can be reduced or prevented by regular dental care include:

So what can you do to maintain good oral health for your pets? Here are veterinarian Dr. Neil Gowan, Bsc DVM’s top 3 recommended methods to keeping your pet’s smile white, breath bearable and organs healthy.

Brush Daily

One of the very best ways to avoid the completely preventable condition of periodontal disease is by brushing your pet’s teeth daily using a pet toothpaste. Brushes and pastes are available for purchase at your local pet store or often from your veterinarian.

Eating Right

Just like we do for ourselves, we can greatly mitigate the damage that is done to their oral health by changing their diets. Dental treats and/or diets that have the Veterinary Oral Health Council seal can go a long way to keeping teeth cleaner and gums healthier.

Following Veterinary Recommended Treatment Plans

Trust and follow the recommendations set out by your veterinarian. Routine dental cleanings are important to halt and prevent the onset of dental disease and are an essential part of your pet’s overall wellness, just like a good diet, vaccines and parasite prevention.

If you have questions about your pet’s oral health and dental care, contact your veterinarian today.

Kitty Comfort When It's Cold

Tue, 20 Jan 2015 19:59:00 GMT

Cats are creatures of comfort so what can we do to make sure they stay warm and cozy from December through March?

Gimme Shelter

First and foremost, it’s best for your cat if you keep them indoors during the winter months, even if they tend to go outside from time to time during the warmer seasons.

There are some serious threats to cats outdoors in the winter, including:

If, however, your cat is very good at sneaking its way outside, ensure that there is a spot that they can go on your property that they can go to take shelter and keep warm. Just make sure that there isn’t any antifreeze accessible in this location as it is extremely toxic but tempts them with its sweet flavour.

The Heat Is On

Cats love heat sources so make sure they are both accessible yet don’t pose a danger, for instance, if your home has a fireplace it is important to keep sparks at bay with a fireplace screen.

If your home has baseboard or radiator heating, consider placing an elevated perch or bed next to the heat source to encourage this as a safe place to get cozy, while also making them less likely to cause themselves damage by sleeping directly on the heat source itself.

Born To Run

All cats need exercise, regardless of the season. Winter is a great time for playing together as you’re more likely to be stuck inside. The interaction of playing together strengthens the bond you share with your cat, increases health by burning calories, and increases happiness and sleep quality…

...for both of you.

It’s The End Of The World As We Know It (And I Feel Fine)

If you live in Ontario you know that winter is unpredictable and once in a while it sends a major storm event our way. These can cause severe disruptions, with roads and businesses closed and potentially power outages as well.

With this in mind, it is important to plan ahead to ensure that any pets have the supplies they need that can last them through any such incidents. Keep a healthy stock of their food and any medications they are on so they are not left wanting.

Additionally, throughout the winter it’s a great idea for you and your cat to cuddle at any opportunity, not just when the power goes out. Their owner’s lap is often a cat’s favourite heat source and it’s a relaxing place for bonding for both owner and cat, so go on and have a snuggle.

For more ideas on how to keep your cat happy and healthy during the winter months, contact your local veterinarian today.

Keeping Your Dog Warm On Walks

Tue, 20 Jan 2015 19:47:00 GMT

Are you still taking your dog out for daily walks during the winter months?

Keeping to your dog’s regular exercise schedule is important during the winter, and just like you, they should bundle up before heading out.

Winter Jackets

Boots

Dr. Jeff Werber says that dogs in winter sweaters and jackets are no laughing matter.

For more tips on keeping your dog warm and active during the winter months, talk to your veterinarian today.

Using Catnip to Curb Bad Cat Behaviour

Wed, 03 Dec 2014 21:48:00 GMT

Why It Works

It’s not just house cats that can’t get enough of the aromatic herb, the larger wild members of the feline species also get the same enjoyment from catnip because it comes down to genetics. As it’s hereditary, not all cats will have a strong reaction to nepeta cataria, in fact approximately 33% of cats are largely unaffected by it.

For the remaining 67% of cats, It is the nepetalactone in the oil of the plant’s seeds, leaves and stems that gives them that feeling of euphoria. It is this large majority that will benefit from catnip as a behavioural tool in the home.

Stopping Unwanted Scratching

Many cat owners now prefer to leave their cats front claws in rather than have the first digit removed from the kitten when it is young. While this is kind to the cat, these felines will thus need to have their claws trimmed on a regular basis and/or have a scratching post provided for them to wear down their talons.

The scratching post is a great way to save your chairs and couches from having the fabric torn away by an enthusiastic cat, but sometimes a cat may stray from its use. Catnip, applied to the scratching post, can reinforce the proper behaviour for the cat, making the scratching post the much more favourable option.

Saving The Houseplants

Growing your own catnip in the house has several benefits, chiefly:

As catnip is safe to eat, it will be much safer for them than the majority of common houseplants, many of which can be poisonous to pets if consumed.

If you have questions about other ways that catnip could be used as a positive reinforcement training method for cats, contact your veterinarian today.

Dogs & Diabetic Owners: A Nose For Trouble

Fri, 21 Nov 2014 16:51:00 GMT

To be specific, dogs have been proven to be able to actually smell hyper and hypoglycemia. This allows them to warn their owners when their blood sugar begins to drop before they get dangerously high or low, a skill that can be honed by training. They are able to do so by changes to the scent of their owner’s breath. These trained medical detection dogs will alert their diabetic owner by alerting them to the coming crisis and can even bring them their blood testing kit.

This special and trainable relationship has been recognised by the Canadian Diabetes Association and the first organisation to develop medical assist dogs for diabetes was started in 2008 in the UK under the patronage of the Duchess of Cornwall, the charity Medical Detection Dogs .

For additional information on how dogs can alert their owners to changes in blood sugar levels, visit medicaldetectiondogs.org.uk , and for other information on the management of diabetes, go to diabetes.ca .

Lost Dogs - Wandering In Winter

Fri, 14 Nov 2014 17:36:00 GMT

A dog who cannot find its way back to its owner or home is at great risk of hypothermia and frostbite, both conditions that require emergency treatment if discovered.

Does this mean that you shouldn’t walk your dog?

Of course not!

Walking your dog is an essential part of their daily routine and if weather is permitting, it’s best to still get outside and share the exercise. Here are some tips for winter walking with your dog to keep in mind:

If you have other questions about how to keep your pet safe outside during the winter months, contact your local veterinarian today.

Pet Nutrition

Tue, 04 Nov 2014 20:54:00 GMT

What To Look For When Reading Pet Food Labels
There are certain types of information that should not be absent from a food label. In order to understand what is being fed to your pets and also to ensure that the company stands by its product, here are some details that must be on the label of any food you buy.

For further detail on the above and more information on how to read a pet food label, the Canadian Veterinary Medical Association and Hills released the following document as a part of their Partnership for Pet Health initiative.

PDF: http://www.canadianveterinarians.net/documents/how-to-read-a-pet-food-label2007

Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO)
The AAFCO is a non-profit organisation that regulate or certify pet foods, but rather it sets out standards in the US that producers of pet foods can follow to ensure that they meet local and federal laws ®gulations.

If a pet food product meets these standards then they are able to state on their pet food labels that the product complies with the requirements set by the AAFCO. Veterinarians will only recommend foods that comply with these standards and are labeled accordingly.

For more information on the Association of American Feed Control Officials, visit http://petfood.aafco.org or talk to your veterinarian today to learn more about selecting a diet that is nutritionally balanced for your pet.

The Facts About Ebola & Pets

Fri, 24 Oct 2014 20:33:00 GMT

Halloween Care & Scares For Your Dog

Thu, 16 Oct 2014 20:01:00 GMT

Safe

Pumpkin
Pumpkins are synonymous with Halloween and are also an incredibly healthy treat for dogs, with plenty of fibre and vitamin A. Try making your own dog treats with pumpkin and peanut butter with a reciple like this: http://allrecipes.com/recipe/peanut-butter-and-pumpkin-dog-treats/.

Sweet Potatoes
These aren’t necessarily just a fall treat but are certainly a big part of autumn family dinners. For your dog, cooked or dehydrated sweet potato offers them essential fibre, vitamins and minerals.

Apples
If there’s a fruit that’s as ubiquitous with autumn as pumpkins it’s apples. If you want to give your dog a sweet and crunchy treat, give them a slice of apple. For a twist on the theme, if you have a dehydrator apple chips are also a hit.

Dangerous

Raisins
Any veteran trick-or-treater knows that raisins are almost certainly going to be at the bottom of the pillowcase by the end of the evening. Keep these and other Halloween treats away from dogs as grapes and raisins are poisonous to them.

Chocolate
Chocolate is poisonous to pets. Never keep chocolates where the dogs can get them or you will need to see an emergency veterinarian.

Sweets & Wrappers
While not all candies are poisonous, too many of them can lead to pancreatitis, a potentially fatal condition that may not be noticeable for several days. The wrappers, meanwhile, can obstruct the gastrointestinal tract and require emergency surgery for removal. Again, ensure that all Halloween treats are kept safely away from any dogs’ access.

Glow Sticks
An increasing trend is for children to wear or walk with glow sticks while trick-or-treating, helping to improve visibility on an evening walk about town. If a pet were to puncture one of these glow sticks it would cause oral pain, irritation and even foaming. Store these where the pets can’t get them and dispose of them when finished.

Cat Dandruff

Tue, 07 Oct 2014 17:39:00 GMT

Why Dandruff Occurs In Cats

Dandruff is the excessive shedding of the top layer of skin (dander), a natural process that can be exacerbated under the right conditions. Rather than a condition unto itself, dandruff tends to be a symptom of underlying causes, ranging from nutrient deficiency to contact with harmful substances.
Some of the most common causes for dandruff in cats include:

Mites

Some mites may appear as dandruff at first glance, particularly the Cheyletiellosis mite, also known as the “walking mite”. These are large light-coloured parasites that tend to live on the back in a cat’s coat. According to the Canadian Veterinary Medical Association , instances of finding these mites may be on the rise as they are not affected by regular flea ¶asite treatments.

Where To Start

Many people can have severe allergic reactions to cat dander so maintaining healthy skin and coat is beneficial for both pet and owner.

There are other reasons why a cat might develop a dandruff problem as well and knowing which underlying cause or causes is at play can be difficult to ascertain. Your veterinarian can help to diagnose what cause(s) is the culprit and which course of treatment is best suited to your pet, beit nutritional supplements, improved diet, shampoos or parasite treatments. A visit to the veterinarian will get both you and your pet on the right track.

Animal Health Week 2014

Mon, 29 Sep 2014 19:50:00 GMT

Don't Feed These To Your Cat

Mon, 29 Sep 2014 19:20:00 GMT

There are many items in the house that cat owners should make sure their cats don’t consume, some perhaps less obvious than one might expect. What follows is a brief rundown of some of these edible dangers. For a complete list of foods toxic to your cat, consult your veterinarian.

Don’t Feed These To Your Cat:

Caffeine
This is another potentially fatal drug to cats, found in coffee, tea, chocolate, cocoa, energy and soft drinks and more. Caffeine can lead to heart palpitations, restlessness, fits… sound familiar? These are a few of the symptoms of caffeine poisoning in cats, but also fast breathing and muscle tremors. Perhaps most troublesome in this case, there is no cure for caffeine.

Candy
Many times we don’t know what we eat because we don’t read the ingredients on the packaging. With candy, one of those ingredients that we might not always recognise can be lethal. Xylitol, a sweetener used in many things, can produce liver failure in cats.

Chocolate
The theobromine in chocolate is toxic to cats as well as dogs, too much of it can result in death. Keep chocolate away from all pets. At least, thankfully, cats are less likely than their canine compatriots to seek the sweet treat on their own.

Dairy
Believe it or not, cats are lactose-intolerant. A little dairy can result in a lot of diarrhea.

Fish
Raw foods like fish can carry bacteria such as E. coli, resulting in food poisoning in cats just as it would in humans. Raw fish also can cause neurological disorders by attacking the body’s thiamine (vitamin B1).

Grapes
As with dogs, grapes and raisins are toxic to cats too, potentially causing kidney failure. Cats might enjoy chasing them across the floor given the opportunity, but keep the grapes away.

Human Medicine
While not a food, definitely worth mentioning. Never treat a cat with human medicine unless under strict instruction from your veterinarian. Poisoning cases for cats that have consumed pain relievers and anti-inflammatories are all too common, in spite of their owners best intentions. If a pet ever needs medication, talk to your regular vet.

Onion
All types and forms of onion, including garlic, can cause serious harm to a cat. Foods of the onion species create gastrointestinal upset and can even deplete red blood cells in felines, severely diminishing the body’s ability to carry oxygen through the bloodstream (anemia).

Tinned Tuna
A steady diet of tuna does not give a cat the nutrients it needs to thrive and could even result in mercury poisoning in some cases. A tiny amount now and then as a treat, however, is likely okay.

The Nitty-Gritty on Kitty Litter

Thu, 04 Sep 2014 13:52:00 GMT

1. Have As Many Litter Boxes As You Have Cats

It is important to have at least as many litter boxes as you have cats. In a multi-cat household, cats are by nature territorial and do not generally share well. Ideally, in homes with more than one cat there is 1 litter box per feline and then 1 extra box even, which helps to reduce this territorial competition.

Recommendation

Don’t feel you need to group all of your boxes in one location, by having boxes in different sections of the house you improve ease of access, the importance of which will be discussed in Rule 4. If you have a multi-level house, would you not prefer to have a toilet on each floor?

2. Use Unscented Litter Only

Cats can be incredibly picky, and this applies to their litter preferences as well. Many cats don’t like the scents applied to some litter varieties and will actually refuse to use them, choosing instead to do their business elsewhere in the house.

If you’re worried about trying to mask odour, it’s the next rule that makes the difference.

3. Keep It Clean With A Daily Scooping Regimen

This not only makes your home more pleasant and keeps your cat interested in using his litter rather than the floor, but it also is best for their health.

Benefits:

4. Ensure Your Cat Has Unobstructed Access

Sometimes, as humans who wish to have a beautiful home, we try to get smart and tuck litter boxes away so they are quite hidden from the eye. As much as we like to conceal our cats’ dirty work, however, they aren’t always quite as enamoured with our efforts, and a litter box that is hard to access is often one that is left unused. Cats do prefer privacy when going about their business but it should not be hard for them to either get to their box or comfortably use it.

If you have questions about what types of litter to choose for your cat and home or how to best care for them, ask your veterinarian today.

Preparing Yourself For A Trip To The Emergency Vet

Thu, 14 Aug 2014 18:03:00 GMT

Who To Call

The first step in being prepared is knowing who to contact in case of a veterinary emergency. Google can be helpful but if you've already done your research ahead of time into what 24-hour or after hours emergency vet clinics are in your area you can save precious time in what might be a time-sensitive situation.

If you live in the Brampton area, take note of our contact details and keep them with your pet's health information.

Emergency Vet Clinic In Brampton, Hwy 10
905-495-9907
Unit 10, 1 Wexford Rd.
Wexford Square Plaza
Cambridge, ON

Assessing The Danger & Type Of Emergency

An injured animal can be unpredictable and protecting yourself is important to ensure you can help your pet. Be careful when handling them, as pain may cause them to bite.

Here are some helpful tips for handling sick or injured animals:

Once the animal is secured and protected from further injury, proceed to the animal hospital quickly and safely.

What Happens At The Emergency Veterinary Clinic

Upon arrival to the Emergency Vet Clinic, many facilities attend to sick or injured pets on a triage basis, including ours. This helps to ensure that the animals needing the most urgent care receive it as soon as possible.

The emergency veterinarian will examine your pet and help you to make the medical plans that are most appropriate for your pet's needs and welfare.

Most emergency animal hospitals also have relationships with your regular veterinarian and work to ensure that your pet receives an ongoing continuum of care as it returns to full health.

If you have more questions about what to expect at your local emergency veterinary clinic, contact your vet today.

Broken Bones & Dogs

Thu, 14 Aug 2014 17:41:00 GMT

He didn't have to wait long to find a family that wanted to ensure he got the care and home he needed, he will be coming to live with us with his leg on the mend.

With his experience in mind, let's discuss bone fractures in dogs.

Identifying A Fracture

Dogs have an incredibly high pain tolerance in comparison to humans so it might not be immediately apparent that a pet has broken a bone unless you know what to look for.

Most frequently with dogs, as with humans, the bones most frequently fractured are those of the limbs. When a dog fractures a bone in their limbs they are likely to hold up the leg in question, but this may not always be the case as depending on the location and severity of the break they may still be able to place some weight on the limb. If a fracture is suspected, swelling around the site and pain are most likely present. A dog with a broken bone may also become defensive as a way of protecting itself, so consider a muzzle if attempting to move or treat one with a fracture.

The 4 Most Common Types of Fracture

If moving a dog with a broken limb, always support the leg by using a splint or folded towel.

A broken limb is an emergency situation and a veterinarian should be contacted immediately to assess the break and any other potential problems that may not be as immediately apparent. If an animal has suffered considerable trauma, a broken bone could be the least of their worries.

A vet will perform an exam and probably recommend x-rays to discover the nature of the break and offer the best course of treatment.

Depending on the type of fracture and severity, options for treatment may include:

For more information on broken bones in pets, contact your veterinarian today.

Don't Leave Pets In The Car

Thu, 12 Jun 2014 18:58:00 GMT

The Ontario SPCA has initiated an online campaign that is winning awards and spreading beyond the web with #NoHotPets , an initiative to help educate the public about the severe dangers of leaving pets in the car in the summer and encourage them to take their pets with them when the car is parked.

Every year pet fatalities occur as a result of being left in hot cars by their owners. Last year, this blog covered the same topic. The #NoHotPets website and campaign has included a set of “ Fast Facts ”, as detailed below:

#NoHotPets encourages all Ontarians to get involved and spread the word about the dangers of leaving pets in hot vehicles, including a pledge and contest. Visit NoHotPets.ca for more information today.

Because our pets do not sweat, they are even less able to cope with extreme hot temperatures than we are. Heat stroke is swift to set in, leading to a number of deaths each year. Just because windows might be open on a vehicle does not mean that the temperature will not rise to potentially deadly levels. If your pet is showing signs of heatstroke, call your local emergency veterinary clinic immediately.

If you do notice a pet that has been left in a hot vehicle this summer, contact the Ontario SPCA or local humane society or call the police.

Ontario SPCA
310-7722
cruelty@ospca.on.ca

Community Contacts Directory For Local OSPCA & Humane Society Branches

Does Your Pet Suffer From Seasonal Allergies?

Thu, 17 Apr 2014 19:26:00 GMT

What are some of the main contributing factors to seasonal allergies in pets?

Differently than you and I, pets react in an entirely different way, most often exhibiting persistently itchy skin. If you see felix of fido scratching, licking and biting in a never ending quest for relief, they probably are suffering from allergies. This constant attention to their skin often results in very painful sores that cause infection.

Common signs in pets of seasonal allergies include:

If you see these signs of suffering from seasonal allergies, a visit to your local veterinarian is in order to help them control their itching before the sores manifest. Your veterinarian will help you devise a care plan for your pet, to alleviate their discomfort and manage their environmental exposure.

Some ways to help your pet with seasonal allergies:

If you feel that your pet may be suffering from allergies or if you know that they have in the past, consult your veterinarian today to see how you can help your pet enjoy the warmer weather too.

Spring In Their Step

Thu, 10 Apr 2014 13:54:00 GMT

If you have are considering allowing your cat a little more freedom by letting them venture outdoors, there are some things that every pet owner needs to be aware of, from the hazards awaiting your housecat to the habits and hitch-hikers they can bring inside.

Outside Dangers for Indoor Cats:

Diseases & Parasites

Outdoor cats are at an increased risk for flea parasite infestation due to their exposure to the uncontrolled environment and other potentially infested animals. Parasites can transmit disease to your pet if your cat is not protected by a flea ¶asite control regimen from your veterinarian. Additionally, outdoor pet cats need to be vaccinated against diseases that are common to the local area to protect their health and help prevent the spread of the disease.

Poisonous Substances

Unlike the inside of your home, it is next to impossible for a pet owner to completely control the environment and substances that your cat will be exposed to outdoors. If you have a cat that ventures outside, it is important to be aware of what poisons are in your yard to at least make your own property safe. Some common outdoor poisons include:

For more potential pet poisons that are waiting outdoors for your cat and so you can plan your pet-friendly garden, check out the Pet Poison Helpline or talk to your veterinarian.

Other Animals

A domesticated cat can end up in territorial battles with other cats in the area, come across an aggressive dog, or be seen as prey to potential predators. It is important to check your cat when it returns to the house to ensure that there are no cuts, scrapes or other signs of a battle as these can become infected if left untreated.

Additionally, there is always the potential that your cat could contribute to the wild cat population or bring a litter home if they are unspayed or unneutered.

Automobiles

You cat may win the odd territorial battle against other local rivals, but they won’t win a confrontation with a car. This can be a particularly significant problem if you live in a busy neighborhood or along a highway with fast-moving traffic (including the countryside).

If you live in a high-traffic area, consider striking up a walking routine with your cat on a leash and harness to give them outdoor exercise and fresh air.

Messing in Gardens

You and your neighbours may be quite proud of your garden, but the beautifully cultivated flora can be undermined by the presence of outdoor cats. Used to using a litter box for their waste, your cat may decide that your rose bed is the perfect place to hide their mess. Such befouling of one’s gardens can be very frustrating and taxing on neighbour-to-neighbour relations.
Hunting

Many outdoor cats love to return to their stalking and hunting roots. Some may swallow their prey and no one is the wiser, but others return their kill to the home to share with their owners first. It can be endearing in a way, but it can still be quite unpleasant to have dead vermin brought indoors.

Want to help give the mice and birds a fighting chance at a get-away and reduce the body count on your doorstep? Placing a small bell on your cat’s collar can work wonders.

Getting Lost

Cats, just like dogs, can get lost and not be able to find their way home. This can sometimes mean their adoption by someone else who is able to help the lost pet, or their pick-up by the Society for Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SPCA). If you have a cat that ventures outdoors, ensure that they wear their collar and identification tag at all times, and also visit your veterinarian to have them microchipped.

It can be very difficult in some cases to keep a determined cat from going outside but if just can’t convince them to stay inside, it is essential to be knowledgeable of what’s waiting for them on the other side of the door. For more information on how to keep your cat safe when outside, make an appointment to visit your veterinarian today.

Clearing The Minefield

Tue, 01 Apr 2014 14:58:00 GMT

The pristine scene of a white blanketed backyard is being replaced by a mushy, smelly and unsanitary mix of mud, grass and poop. Your mission, should you choose to accept it (and you really should), is to make the yard a safe place once again for pets, plants and people.

Mission: Spring Cleaning

Let’s face it, we’ve all been gearing up for a bit of spring cleaning anyhow. Many people choose to target a different room of their house every day during a spring cleaning blitz, so why not just add the backyard to your list of rooms to tackle?

Location: Backyard

I would recommend starting your mission outside, as you otherwise run the risk of tidying the inside only to have outdoor pollutants tracked in on sullied footwear and dog paws. Nobody wants dog poop on the clean floors. That’s just counterproductive.

Threat Assessment: Bacterial contaminants impacting the health of the grass, flowers, children and pets

This is likely not surprising, but dog fæces contain many forms of bacteria, viruses and parasites, some of which can be very dangerous when transmitted to other animals or humans.

Some of the travelers that can be found in dog fæces:

If that doesn’t make you want to clean up after a winter of dog-doos, I’m not sure anything will. So what’s the best way to deal with the waste?

First off, get the whole yard cleared of mess. If some of the fæces are too soft for a clean pick-up, do as best you can and then hose down what remains. It is much easier to manage your backyard cleanup on an ongoing basis if you start with a clean slate.

You may also wish to contact your municipal government to see if they have any bylaws regarding the disposal of dog waste, as some regions require these to be disposed of as hazardous waste.

For suggestions on how to best manage your backyard cleanup, The Housebreaking Bible has some excellent tips in their article, ‘What To Do with Poo (The Art & Science of Dog Poop Displosal)’ . Whatever plan works for you, stick with it, and reap the rewards of a tidy and safe backyard for the whole family to enjoy.

For more suggestions on how to maintain a safe play space for pets and children, contact your veterinarian today.

It's Pet Dental Health Month!

Fri, 14 Feb 2014 15:28:00 GMT

February is a short month and is often pretty bland as far as excitement goes. This year is particularly dreadful and cold but it does have two things working in its favour to spice things up that set it apart from previous years.

Firstly, Canada is doing really well at the 2014 Olympics so far and we’ve seen great stories of humanity, sportsmanship and roads to victory along the way.

Secondly, it’s Pet Dental Health Month.

Oh you didn’t know that Pet Dental Health Month was such a big thing? Rest assured, it’s pretty dramatic stuff. Here’s a few things that you probably didn’t know about your pet’s mouth:

Stats from the 2013 Canada’s Pet Wellness Report published by the Canadian Veterinary Medical Association in partnership with Hill’s® Science Diet®.

There is clearly a major disconnect between what veterinarians are saying and what pet owners are hearing. This is why Pet Dental Health Month exists, to increase awareness of how vital dental health is to the overall care and wellness of a pet.

What many don’t seem to realise is that by taking a proactive approach to their pets’ oral and dental care they are in fact also helping to reduce instances and even prevent some very major health problems that can be brought on as a result of poor or lack of dental care. Such conditions include:

One of the best indicators that there’s something not right with your pet’s dental health is an obvious one, and something that pet owners notice on a regular basis...

Bad Breath

Halitosis, or awfully smelly breath caused by bacteria, is easy to spot. Most pet owners think little of their pet’s bad breath but it could be an indicator of a developing dental disease. Dogs, just like humans, always have some bacteria in their mouths, and these bacteria attach themselves to the plaque on the teeth. This collection may not smell exactly lovely, but it’s when the scent becomes noxious, rotten and overwhelming that there is likely to be a significant underlying problem.

What Can Pet Owners Do?

The best way to ward off major dental procedures and future health problems is to regularly brush the teeth of their pets. This helps to remove excess plaque from the teeth and gumline, massage the gums to prevent gingivitis and also spend some quality hands-on time with the pet.

Keep in mind, don’t use human toothpaste. Pets have their own specially formulated varieties. There are other products on the market that help to reduce oral bacteria that are available at your vet’s office and some pet stores but it’s best to chat with your vet about their recommendations.

At your pet’s next visit checkup, make sure to take the time to talk to their vet about how you can take an active role in your pet’s dental care. It’s better to take preventative measures than to treat a serious condition later, and your pet’s longer life will be a reward in itself.

Lost, Stray & Community Cats: How To Make A Difference

Fri, 14 Feb 2014 15:01:00 GMT

So what does one do if a homeless cat shows an interest in forming a relationship?

The answer really depends on capacity, one’s capacity for caring for another animal and the capacity of one’s home and finances to include another dependent. Keep in mind that there are several ways that one can help.

Lost Cats

Helping them find a way home
Not all cats that roam are homeless. In many cases they might be given outdoor privileges or some find their way outside and just get lost, unable to find their way back home. Domesticated cats are not the wild beasts of thousands of years ago; to a pampered cat from a loving household the prospect of not being able to find their home again is not only frightening but also a serious threat to their survival.

If an unknown cat approaches you that shows signs of being a housecat, such as a collar or appears well groomed, there is a good chance that the cat may already have a home and it needs your help.

Many domesticated cats now have microchip identification as well, your local veterinarian can help you identify their homes. Contacting all local vets and humane societies to inform them of the pet and description that you’re minding can also help the pet’s owners to find their lost cat again.

If there is no identifying information on a cat that arrives on your doorstep, you do still have choices that ensure that the cat is cared for and that the stray cat population is managed humanely.

Can't Find An Owner? You Still Have Options .

Welcome Home
If the cat is friendly, let it know that it is safe and welcome at your house. This can involve leaving food or even inviting the cat into your home as a pet. How feasible these options are to you is entirely dependent on your own situation and whether the cat is willing to trust you.

If you do begin to feed a stray or community cat, keep in mind that the cat may come to rely on you for its welbeing. Particularly during climate extremes, you should be prepared to offer shelter as well. In the case of strays, the goal should always be to help them find a permanent home and family to care for them.

Humane Societies
Asking the Humane Society or Animal Control to take responsibility of a cat should not be your first call, they should be your last resort. The majority of animal shelters do not have room for more cats, which means that cats that go to shelters often end up being euthanised if not adopted soon. The Humane Society can, however, be a valuable resource toward responsible pet ownership and adoption.

Trap-Neuter-Release Programs
Not all homeless cats, particularly feral cats that have never much interaction with humans before, might be suitable to bring into a home. Kittens from cat colonies can often be socialised and given a home but this is frequently not the case with adult felines. There are, however, measures that can be taken to help control this population in a humane way.

What many communities and animal welfare organisations are doing now are Trap-Neuter-Release programs, which ensure that these feral cats are examined by a veterinarian, neutered or spayed, and then brought back to their colony where they can continue to live but are unable to reproduce and increase the wild domestic cat population.

These programs require support from local residents, property owners and organisations to ensure the ongoing care and monitoring of these cat colonies.

For more information about Trap-Neuter-Release programs, visit http://www.animalalliance.ca/campaigns/stray-feral-cats.html or talk to your veterinarian or humane society today.

Technology Improving Communication With Our Pets?

Thu, 23 Jan 2014 17:19:00 GMT

The world is a much more connected place today than it was even just a few short years ago, instant communication has never been more readily accessible thanks to the technology, messaging and social networking we now rely upon heavily at times. Not only are we in the middle of a communication revolution in terms of how we connect with each other and view the world’s events, but we may also soon see a change in the way we are able to connect with our pets.

The relationships and communication lines between humans and our pets have been forged over many millennia. In the case of the domesticated dog, both humans and canines have literally evolved together as their mutual dependency on each other for work, welfare, food and companionship helped to ensure our mutual survival and are the reason why dogs are now human kind's best friend .

So how is technology potentially about to improve upon this connection that has been strengthening since long into prehistory?

At the Consumer Electronics Show 2014 (CES), one company aims to help us understand our pets on a whole new level through the use of wearable technology, introducing Voyce.

Developed in collaboration with dog experts, Cornell University and biomedical engineers, i4C Innovations’ wants to help dog owners understand their pets better with their advanced collar that uploads important information pertaining to a dog’s day and health to an online database that can be accessed anywhere by desktop or mobile device. This information is presented in a manner that will help the dog owner understand their pet’s needs, desires and health to a greater degree and reach individualised health goals, while also sharing this information with their veterinarian for ongoing health and wellness management, tracking trends over time.

There is a social sharing aspect to the technology as well, allowing photos and information about your dog to be shared on social media, giving family and friends an insight into the pet’s healthy and happy lifestyle.

What may be most interesting, however, is the potential value for dogs with existing health conditions. Their vitals signs and wellness indicators such as calories, activity and rest can be followed and analysed quickly and easily by both parent and veterinarian, ensuring that their health and wellbeing are regularly monitored and managed.

See the video and visit the Voyce website below for more information.
www.mydogsvoyce.com

Medicating A Reluctant Cat

Wed, 08 Jan 2014 17:50:00 GMT

Unfortunately, the process of medicating at home can leave both owner and cat exhausted, frustrated and one of them (place your wagers) may need stitches and a blood transfusion. Just because it might be easy to give up at this point doesn’t mean it’s in your cat’s best interests or their health’s. If the professionals can manage to do it at the vet office, almost anyone can with the right techniques.

So how do we get our cats to take their medications?

There are several techniques or even tricks to get a cat to swallow medication, some of which will be detailed here in brief (for questions or more information, contact your veterinarian). The type of medication will also likely dictate the best course, as what works well for pills may not work for fluids.

When your cat has been prescribed medications, ensure that you talk to your vet first about how they are to be administered and ask for a demonstration on technique.

The following video from International Cat Care, a charity promoting the health and welfare of cats, provides a perfect step-by-step instruction if you need a technique refresher.

Note: the softly, softly approach and the use of gentle restraint is vital so as to not stress out the cat. If a cat becomes stressed then the job becomes infinitely more difficult and your chances of cooperation with future doses is far less likely.

Method 2: Concealment
If a cat just doesn’t will not take a pill for you, in spite of your best efforts and the right technique, there are products on the market and in your pantry that can make just about anything palatable to a cat. Mind, it works best if your cat doesn’t chew their food too much or the game is up!

Alternatively, try concealment inside of a small ball of tinned cat food or even a chunk of cheese.

Note: Not all medications can be taken with food. Ask your veterinarian first before medicating your cat with food.

Method 3: Liquids
Some medications that are normally in tablet format, but certainly not all, can be compounded down by your veterinarian or their supplier and added to a flavoured liquid that many cats find delicious. This route is more expensive than the cost of regular tablet medications but it does provide a less stressful way for both pet and owner to ensure that a cat receives the necessary treatments it requires. Another liquid option would be an injectible format, which is also not always an option depending on the medication, although subcutaneous injections are often simple in comparison to other methods of treatment.

Note: Always check with your veterinarian first about whether a medication can safely or effectively be taken as a liquid and do not prepare it yourself unless otherwise instructed.

Method 4: Get The Professionals
If your best efforts just aren’t working and you can’t medicate your cat, all hope isn’t lost, most veterinary clinics are happy to help. Many medication regimens are for a short duration, such as antibiotics, so if you’re just not able to get past your feline’s staunch resistance, bring your cat by the vet’s for its daily dose.

It might not be the most convenient method of medicating a cat but ensuring that they get the care that they need to be healthy is paramount.

For other questions about your pet’s medications or how to administer them, talk to your veterinarian today.

Walking Your Dog In A Winter Wonderland

Thu, 19 Dec 2013 20:10:00 GMT

What Makes Winter Walking Different?

Well it all stems from the fact that it’s awfully cold out. It’s not rocket science but common sense; If you find it uncomfortably cold without bundling up in layers then so does your dog. It’s not just the chill, however, as there are a number of conditions that arise in the winter months to warrant yet another list of potential dangers, such as increased darkness, road pollutants and the snow itself. Here are some cautions to consider:

There’s A Chill In The Air

Keep your dog warm during your walks by ensuring that they have the protection from the cold air, just like you do.

Salty Dog

All of that road salt that is great for keeping you safe from driving can also be quite bothersome. Not only does it discolour your shoes but it can be much more dangerous for your pet, causing vomiting and diarrhea.

Beware Antifreeze

Additional chemicals that are designed to help humans combat the winter can be found on the roads, and also found in more plentiful supply in garages, sheds and homes… another reason to clean your dog’s feet after a walk in the street.

Just because the weather gets frigid and the snow piles up doesn’t mean that a regular walking routine can’t continue as normal, as long as precautions are taken for the safety of both you and your pet.

For more ideas on how to keep your dog fit and healthy during the winter months and prepare for mother nature’s chilly worst, talk to your veterinarian today.

Now Boarding: Kennel Cough & The Vaccine

Thu, 19 Dec 2013 19:54:00 GMT

Sometimes when one returns from a vacation they bring back a virus or infection with them, usually as the result of sharing a small space with a large number of people. The same can be true of our dogs from their kennel visit. This is why many families consider the Kennel Cough vaccine when boarding their pets, and why a majority of kennels require it.

What the Kennel Cough vaccine works to combat is Canine Contagious Cough Complex, a damaging case of inflamed airways, specifically irritating and harming the trachea and bronchial passageways in the lungs, known as tracheobronchitis. This condition can be caused by a multitude of different organisms but most frequently the bacteria Bordetella bronchiseptica and the viruses parainfluenza and adenovirus.

The condition is known colloquially as Kennel Cough because this type of environment facilitates its spread through minute excretions from the respiratory tract, like coughing, transmitting in much the same way as a human cold or flu would.

Once contracted, the airway and lung irritation and superficial damage will typically remain for up to 3 weeks if caught and treated early, usually with cough suppressants and antibiotics. The slightest passage of air through the respiratory tract can trigger a cough, often exemplified by a hacking attempt at a throat clearing.

So how does one determine if their own dog is a good candidate to receive the Kennel Cough vaccine?

Again using the human parallel of the flu virus, just because a vaccine exists does not mean that it is the right fit for every individual. There are many factors to consider when deciding whether or not to vaccinate your pet.

Your veterinarian will help you make that decision by providing you with the answers you need to make an informed choice for the health and safety of both your pet and those around it. For a sampling of some factors that will weigh-in on the verdict, consider the following:

It is much easier to find a cat-sitter to drop by the house once in a while to check in on how the much more independent felines are handling the time on their own. Our dogs need more care and attention and if a dog-sitter cannot be found sometimes this means finding a boarding kennel.

Talk to your veterinarian today to determine if the Kennel Cough vaccine is right for you and your pet.

The American Pet Treat Recall

Tue, 26 Nov 2013 15:21:00 GMT

You may have recently heard a considerable amount of news with regards to the ongoing investigation into pet illnesses in North America with a possible direct relation to jerky treats that are manufactured in China. So far, most of this news has come from the United States, including a detailed response from the Federal Drug Administration on the matter.

Here is what the FDA had to say:

“As of September 24, 2013, FDA has received more than 3000 complaints of illness related to consumption of chicken, duck, or sweet potato jerky treats, nearly all of which are imported from China. The reports involve more than 3600 dogs, 10 cats and include more than 580 deaths… While FDA has not yet identified a cause for the reported illnesses, the agency, together with our Vet-LIRN partners, continue to perform testing to help identify cases and examine both animal tissue and product samples associated with the cases. FDA also continues to work with the manufacturers and distributors of the treats and China’s Administration of Quality Supervision, Inspection and Quarantine to investigate potential sources of contamination or causes of illness in pets.”

FDA Releases Progress Report on Jerky Pet Treat Investigation
October 22, 2013

The FDA also released this Fact Sheet on Jerky Pet Treats to coincide with their autumn update.

So what about Canada?
Has the same scenario been playing out here as well?

The Canadian Veterinary Medical Association , the national association and voice for the veterinary profession in Canada, has recently released an update on the Jerky Treat investigation as well as a caution to both vets and pet owners.

Use these releases to educate yourself about what treats your pets are eating and whether they are ultimately healthy for consumption. The fact that they are still available for purchase in Canada indicates that buyers must be diligent.

If you have any questions about these reports or about what are the best treats to offer your pet, contact your local veterinarian today.

Preventing Abuse

Wed, 06 Nov 2013 20:11:00 GMT

Animal cruelty is, however, all around us, all of the time. Preventing such cases and protecting animal welfare takes us all.

Aside from certain sections of the Criminal Code of Canada , Provincial laws outline the ways in which animal rights are protected and enforced. The Ontario Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act & Provincial Animal Welfare Act , 2008, are the statues that legislate and dictate public policy and responsibilities in this province. But what can we do as responsible pet owners?

Keep A Diligent Eye
In most cases of animal cruelty in the home, the owner does not realise the damage that they are inflicting or the consequences of their actions. Neglect is often unintended but is the largest threat to a pet’s welfare but can be hard to spot. Some of the more common signs of neglect and threats to a pet’s welfare include:

Any instances of physical abuse of an animal should be immediately reported to the authorities, and likewise if such symptoms as listed above are seen within your community the best course of action is to contact your local police, animal control or humane society to discuss your concerns. Risking a confrontation with a neighbour can be unpleasant and even dangerous for any pet and persons involved, these professionals can respond to reported concerns and follow-up when needed with an investigation to ensure that any animals involved are safe.

Education
One of the primary causes of neglect or abuse is a lack of education on what constitutes responsible pet care and ownership. Here are some examples of great sources of education for pet rearing:

Organisations such as the Ontario SPCA and Humane Society and the University of Guelph’s Campbell Centre For The Study Of Animal Welfare exist to help protect the rights of animals in Ontario and to promote their welfare through education. With their help and the diligence of responsible pet owners, we can go a long way towards eradicating the abuse of animals in our communities.

For more information on animal abuse and what you can do to combat it, contact your veterinarian today for more information.

Halloween & Pets

Mon, 28 Oct 2013 16:09:00 GMT

The Pet Poison Helpline notes that their call centre’s veterinarians receive a 12% jump in phone contacts yearly, with Ahna Brutlag, DVM, MS , the assistant director of the organisation reporting, “Each year we experience a sharp increase in calls around Halloween, especially during the weekends surrounding the holiday.”

The chief cause of the poisonings can be attributed directly to the readily available sweets that are now as synonymous with Halloween as ghosts and ghouls.

Chocolate is a very poisonous substance for pets, dogs in particular. Just how poisonous an ingestion of chocolate can be for a dog can be determined by how much of the substance’s caffeine and theobromine have been consumed, the two ingredients of chocolate that are toxic to pets. The darker the chocolate is, the more harmful it is, but a larger portion of milk chocolate can produce the same outcome.

Symptoms of Chocolate Poisoning

Review this Dog Chocolate Toxicity Meter for a better understanding of the different types of chocolate and portion levels.

Raisins can be extremely poisonous to both dogs and cats. Many pet owners do not suspect that grapes, and thereby raisins, can do so much harm when they are distributed to eager trick-or-treaters as the healthy alternative, but sometimes even a few of them can cause acute kidney or organ damage so severe that they prove fatal.

Symptoms of Grape/Raisin Poisoning

While not all dogs feel the effects as strongly, this is a case in which it is better to be safe than sorry, best keep the grapes and raisins shut away from pet access.

Eating too much candy isn’t just a problem for the most prolific trick-or-treating children. Given the opportunity, many dogs with gorge themselves on sweets as well. Aside from the impacts of chocolate and raisin poisoning, an ingestion of a very large quantity of sugary candy with high-fat contents can in worst cases lead to a fatal onset of pancreatitis.

Symptoms of Eating Too Much Candy

Unfortunately, if your dog has eaten a large amount of candy but they seem to be handling it, pancreatitis may not set in for several days. With stakes this high, it’s more proof that the candy should be locked away.

Candy Wrappers can even cause humans grief from time to time when sticky sweets resist the peeling of their protective wrapping. When it comes to our dogs, however, they don’t generally bother with that cumbersome process and eat the candy whole. Another danger comes from the discarded candy wrappers that have been jettisoned about the house. Items like these can cause a number of digestive issues for pets.

Symptoms of Consuming Candy Wrappers

With the evidence of the crime consumed, it can be difficult to ascertain if a dog has eaten a candy wrapper. For this reason, x-rays are often required when the above symptoms are displayed.

With so many dangers sitting in a bowl by our front doors and in our cupboards waiting for Halloween, it’s a wonder that the spike in calls to the Pet Poison Helpline isn’t higher than 21% each year at the end of October. Take due diligence to protect your pet and always keep your emergency veterinarian’s number handy, it could save your pet’s life.

Caring For Your Senior Dog

Mon, 14 Oct 2013 14:04:00 GMT

Last week’s topic was regarding what to expect as our cats age into their senior years, today we discuss the caring of our elderly dogs.

Dogs provide the greatest loyalty and companionship that one can receive. As such, it’s up to us to care for our best friends as they age, making sure that their changing needs are met and they live as comfortably as possible.

The first step, which is vitally important, is to visit a veterinarian first to ascertain what the dietary needs are for any elderly pet to maintain proper weight and health as they age. Through a series of tests, veterinarians can determine what varieties of food are most appropriate to manage or prevent particular age-related conditions, or what supplements can compliment their changing regimen.

Changing Energy Levels
A reduction in activity is natural as our dogs grow older, as they have trouble maintaining the same level of energy for extended periods of time. Due to a deterioration of cardiorespiratory function, reducing the lengths of their regular walks and cutting out high-impact activities can ensure that they stay healthy while still getting the exercise that they require to stay fit.

Changing Behaviour
There are a number of new behaviours that are common for aging dogs, some may seem harmless at first but could be an early indication of underlying conditions. Here are a few behaviours to keep an eye out for.

Environment
Elderly dogs are very sensitive to weather and temperature changes, have trouble regulating their body temperature. Ensure that aging dogs are able to stay warm in colder months with blankets, beds, coats & boots. Similarly, they should be kept cool in the summer with fresh water or even cooling packs under blankets if they find it helpful. To prevent potentially fatal situations, senior dogs should not be left outside in cases of extreme temperature, in winter or summer.

Additionally, accommodate sore and arthritic dogs with easier access to the items that they need to stay happy and healthy. Keep their amenities to the main floor of the house in order to let them avoid the painful climbing of stairs. This can also help to avoid potentially dangerous falls.

As with all pets, regular checkups are very important, but as our dogs age these become even more so. Senior dogs should have regular checkups booked approximately every 6 to 9 months. There is a lot of aging that happens over this time period so it is vital to see a veterinarian on a more frequent basis to monitor for age-related conditions, and wellness. If, however, you notice new signs and behaviours as your pet grows older, discuss them with your veterinarian to determine how best to make your dog’s senior years as comfortable as possible

Caring For Your Senior Cat

Mon, 07 Oct 2013 13:48:00 GMT

Cats can and often do develop arthritis, renal conditions, joint deterioration and other such troubles as they age. As such, it is up to us as responsible pet parents to give our cats the care they need as their bodies and needs change during their senior years.

Diet
It sounds reasonable that when a cat hits a certain age of approximately 8+ years they would be gradually switched to a senior diet of cat food. If only it were so simple.

Not all senior cats will have the same dietary needs, nor do all senior diet cat foods contain the same nutritional benefits. The best way to discover what any particular cat requires from its food as it ages is to consult a veterinarian yearly for nutritional advice. Through examinations, bloodwork, or fecal and urinary testing, a veterinarian can can detail precisely what an aging cat’s nutritional needs are, covering such topics as:

With the assistance of a veterinarian to help pet owners stay informed, our feline pets can grow old gracefully and with the dignity they deserve.

Changing Energy Levels
Just as humans do, when cats grow older their energy levels tend to reduce over time. A previously highly active cat may curtail the amount of play they fit into a day, while cats that enjoyed to go for a roam outside frequently may well decide they prefer to stay inside.

As our feline friends begin to sleep more and eat less, decide against performing as many acrobatic feats across fences, countertops or leaps to the top of the bookcase, we need to work towards accommodating these lifestyle changes too.

Accessibility Standards
A cat showing less interest in play is also not only just about a reduction in energy level. As the body gets older, most cats will suffer from some form of arthritis or deterioration of joint health. Those high leaps become unthinkable, and even jumping up to the couch can be painful. When a cat begins to show signs of discomfort from activity or an unwillingness to make those previously effortless leaps, consulting with a veterinarian is the first course of action.

Secondarily, there are many ways that one can increase the level of accessibility at home for aging cats. With the primary goal of making their life more comfortable and enjoyable, homes can be reviewed from a cat-centric perspective and minor adjustments made to accommodate for their conditions, including:

As cats become senior, regular checkups with the veterinarian become of vital importance, with a physical and bloodwork done at least yearly. These scheduled visits can monitor for age-related health conditions and a cat’s overall wellness as they continue aging. To the untrained eye it can be very difficult to tell when cats are ill, they are experts at hiding weaknesses.

If you have an aging cat, talk to your vet today about how you can give your cat the quality of life that years of friendship and companionship merits.

Night Walks With Your Dog

Mon, 30 Sep 2013 20:54:00 GMT

When we are treated to more hours of sunshine during the spring and summer months, the added visibility makes it much easier to have a safe and leisurely walk with our pets. Not only is it easier for you to see potential dangers along your way, it’s also easier for those dangers to see you coming as well. There are distinct advantages to having a regular walk routine within a given neighbourhood as you, your dog, and your surroundings become familiar with one another. You begin to anticipate who or what you might see along the way, just as neighbours and drivers begin to look out for you on your walk.

When the evenings get darker you carry these expectations with you. Knowing your route well can help avoid potential pitfalls and let you adjust accordingly.

Don’t like walking at dusk or in the dark? Take your walks earlier in the afternoon.

Can’t walk earlier or prefer the solitude of the nighttime dog walk? Here are several measures you can take to ensure that you both get the most out of the experience.

Drivers

When walking with your dog after dusk, drivers can have a hard time seeing you, particularly if you and your dog are not wearing the appropriate gear. Clothing should be brightly coloured and/or reflective. There are also highly reflective leashes, collars and harnesses for dogs available for purchase, or LED blinkers that will make you and your dog stand out clearly for drivers. These items are highly recommended, even if you have the advantage of street lamps to light your way.

Environment

Some areas take on a whole new persona when the night comes.If you’re apprehensive about a portion of your route when it’s dark, find a safe path that you’re comfortable with. Bring along a flashlight and your cell phone just in case things get a little too dark.
Practicing safe dog walking is about keeping you both safe, after all.
For more safe dog walking tips or find out where to buy reflective accessories, contact your veterinarian today.

Don't Let The Thanksgiving Dinner Go To The Dogs

Wed, 25 Sep 2013 15:38:00 GMT

To be completely honest, it’s not just about the bones. There are other Thanksgiving feast staples that should not be eaten by a dog as they run the range from gastrointestinal irritant to potentially fatal if consumed. You can find some of the biggest offenders below.

The Turkey

Avoid Anything With Onions & Garlic, Really…

Onion and garlic can cause anemia in a dog, a condition that is caused by the destruction of the red blood cells in their body. A small dose may not too serious damage, but the ingestion of large quantities will indeed act as a potent poison, cutting off the dog’s ability to transport oxygen throughout their bloodstream. Hold the gravy and skip the stuffing, which is usually rife with each ingredient and also often contains raisins/sultanas, another pet poison, which causes kidney failure.

Not All Vegetables and Fruit Are Good For Dogs

A Safe Thanksgiving Feast For Your Pet

The safest way to ensure that your pet doesn’t end up with an upset stomach or worse is to keep them on the same diet as they usually are during feast times. If, however, your dog has a hearty disposition, here is a way to let them join in on the occasion.

Recipe:

Ingredients
cooked turkey (ensure that all bones and skin are removed)
carrots
celery
spinach

Cooking Instructions
Add all ingredients to a pot of boiling water and cook until meat is very tender and vegetables are soft.
Drain and serve.

If your pet has ingested any harmful foods, call your local emergency veterinarian immediately. For more suggestions on how to keep your pet safe during fall feast festivities, call your veterinarian today.

Before Your Dog Rolls In The Autumn Leaves...

Mon, 23 Sep 2013 14:41:00 GMT

With the new season arrived, as responsible pet owners we must begin to consider the dangers and pitfalls that are associated with and unique to autumn. The fallen leaves, for example, are worth a moment’s thought.

By no means do I mean to be alarmist, we all love to play in the beautifully coloured leaves that have tumbled to the ground, although admittedly few love to rake them. Instead, it is a case of what can lie beneath.

Just as we are considerate of our young children’s outdoor safety during the autumn, we must also be of our pets’. When children jump in leaf piles, we typically let them do so because they have been raked and deemed safe by an adult, comfortable that the only items in that pile are leaves. While I don’t want to ruin the magic, here are a few items that can either be sitting under the leaves or raked up with them that can cause your pup grief:

At home, by following a regular yard maintenance routine and always picking up excrement, you can go a long way to ensuring that a roll in the leaves is just pure unadulterated fun.

Monitoring our own backyards, however, is much easier than knowing what is waiting in the park. Depending perhaps on your community, public parks are not necessarily always safe for children and pets to play just anywhere on the ground. When the leaves fall, it’s hard to know exactly what is underneath of them. This is more likely when you’d run the risk of coming across broken glass, unclassified dog droppings and perhaps even in some worst cases, needles.

This autumn, play hard but play safe. For more information on how to stay safe outdoors during the fall season, contact your veterinarian today.

September is National Arthritis Awareness Month

Mon, 23 Sep 2013 14:25:00 GMT

Our pets can develop arthritis just as we do, as it is not a condition limited to humans. Arthritis, for those unaffected by it, is an ailment affecting joints that causes pain, stiffness and inflammation. These indicators can have a significant impact on one’s ability to perform daily tasks. The same is true for our pets, so monitoring their capability to carry out their daily activities is a great way to look for the onset of arthritis.

Signs that your pet may be suffering from arthritis, as outlined by the Arthritis Foundation :

Minimizing and Managing Arthritis in Pets

Make An Appointment With Your Vet.

If you have noticed the above symptoms in your pet or suspect the onset of arthritis for other reasons, the first step is to consult your veterinarian. An examination and testing can help determine the extent of the current condition and your veterinarian can work with you to develop a plan that suits the care needs of an individual pet. This can include helping you select the right diet, as well as what drugs (painkillers / anti-inflammatories) and supplements that will assist in managing your pet’s condition.

To manage your pet’s arthritis at home, there are several ways that you can make life more comfortable. Feeding the right diet and maintaining the proper weight for your pet is essential, as extra pounds are hard on the joints.

Another way to ease the load on the joints is to regularly exercise but ensure that it’s low-impact activity for short periods. Running up and down a flight of stairs or jumping is heartily not recommended. Similarly, try to reduce the need for stairs for your pet, keeping their food and/or litter all on one floor when able. If you have the access, probably the best possible exercise for a pet with arthritis is swimming. Afterward, most pets find nothing more soothing than a massage.

Catching the condition early will improve your chances of successfully managing it, and thus improving everyone’s quality of life.

Prevention

Weight and diet go a long way toward ensure your pet lives a long and healthy life, and perhaps even a pain-free one. Maintaining a healthy weight on a vet-approved diet can either delay or sometimes prevent the onset of arthritis by ensuring that the joints aren’t stressed beyond their natural ability.

Providing your pet with the opportunity for regular activity and exercise is also a great way to help keep arthritis at bay, as it keeps the joints moving and strengthens the muscles around them to help them work more smoothly. High-impact activities should perhaps still be kept to a minimum, however, particularly during youth.

It should be noted though that some types of arthritis are genetic conditions, which cannot be prevented, although onset can be delayed and managed with early detection. For more information on arthritis and how it affects your pet, or to book an appointment to review any of the symptoms above, contact your veterinarian today.

The Value of Routine Blood Work

Tue, 03 Sep 2013 20:09:00 GMT

Why Routine Blood Work Is Important
Our beloved pets cannot speak for themselves. Routine blood work, best paired with a urinalysis test, is one of the best ways that veterinarians can gain a wealth of insight into not only an animal’s current health status but also their propensity for future problems that cannot be found on a physical examination.

The price of routine blood work can be off-putting when your pet doesn’t seem ill but this is, in fact, the best time to perform the tests. All animals are different and obtaining a baseline result to compare future tests to improves the test’s overall efficiency.

Where the real value of the service applies, however, is in its ability to provide early detection of conditions, giving vets and pet owners the best chance to successfully treat or manage the coming problems. Early detection and action is key, as in many cases it can significantly minimise the damage to a pet’s health and improve quality of life.

So what does routine blood work involve?
Depending on factors such as the health status or age of your pet, which tests factor into the routine blood work can vary. Here are a few of the most common:

Glucose
Testing an animal’s blood sugar can indicate an onset of diabetes, a condition not restricted to humans. This result is most accurate when paired with a urinalysis test.

Protein
Elevated levels of protein in the blood can be indicative of dehydration or illness, suggesting that the immune system is working very hard. Conversely, low proteins can be telling of an immune system that is not healthy or working as it should be by not producing antibodies.

Calcium
High calcium levels in the bloodstream can be a sign of cancer or chronic kidney failure. Some poisons and glandular malfunctions can also be noted through an abnormal level of Calcium in the blood, high or low.

Phosphorous
Phosphorous levels in the blood are a common indicator of kidney health, with elevations indicating significant kidney damage.

Kidney Enzymes (creatinine, urea nitrogen)
Increases in creatinine levels can indicate a host of issues, most commonly kidney disease and dehydration. Blood Urea Nitrogen (BUN), shows the levels of nitrogen in the bloodstream that is a result of the waste product urea, measuring kidney function. An increase in BUN can also indicate heart failure and dehydration, while a lower level can mean liver damage or failure.

Liver Enzymes ( ALT, ALP)
Higher than normal levels of alanine aminotransferase (ALT), mean that a damaged liver is leaching too much of the enzyme into the bloodstream. High levels of alkaline phosphatase (ALP), is also a frequent indicator of liver disease, but also bone disease.

For more details about routine blood work or to book your next checkup, talk to your veterinarian today.

Maintaining Health & Wellness

Mon, 26 Aug 2013 19:28:00 GMT

Many vet clinics incorporate wellness into their patient care routines through annual wellness examinations for pets. The precise schedule for a pet’s wellness exams would be determined between the owner and the veterinarian, but the general suggestion is that such exams take place yearly up until the senior years, at which time the frequency increases to twice per year. This is largely due to the rate at which our pets age in comparison to ourselves, meaning that a yearly exam for a pet would be similar to a 4-8 year cycle in human terms. That is a considerable amount of aging and changes taking place in what seems to us as a relatively short period of time.

To summarise the particulars, not a whole lot that you wouldn’t expect out of a check-up with a family doctor.

Through a thorough physical exam, diagnostic tests and a series of questions, veterinarians endeavour to build a comprehensive history of an animal’s health. The precise details included will vary depending on the age of the pet and its previous history but the following is a summary of some of the common inclusions:

Physical:

Diagnostic:

Topics covered in health history questions;

Through these methods, a veterinarian can gain a vast insight into the health of an animal and can recommend any appropriate follow-up or treatments as a result, be they dental cleanings, vaccinations, medicine to battle infection, treatment for parasites, dietary alterations or additional health or natural supplements.

Pet insurance packages can be purchased in Canada that include wellness in their coverage.

Booking an annual wellness examination for a pet helps to ensure that they will live a long and healthy life. Talk to your veterinarian today for more details or to schedule your appointment.

The Impact of Nutrition On Your Pets' Health

Wed, 21 Aug 2013 17:21:00 GMT

It can be easy to not think about pet nutrition when one can readily purchase a bag of pet food at the grocery store for a bargain, and even easier when the pet readily devours the food you give them like a Big Mac Combo on a long road trip. The thing is, that’s fairly close to what some pet foods are from your furry family’s perspective, a meal lacking in sufficient nutrition that can leave their body begging for sustenance by the time the next bowl comes around.

Not all pet foods are created equal, so how do you, the buyer, sort out what to feed your pet?

The first step is consulting your veterinarian.
Veterinarians can wear many hats, including family pet practitioner, surgeon, pharmacist, radiologist... and nutritionist.

Depending on your pet’s breed, age, size, weight, previous medical or familial history or even bloodwork, your veterinarian puts together the pieces of the puzzle to sort out what nutritional needs your individual pet has and can then make recommendations to you on brands and varieties of food.

Common dietary ingredients that can contribute to a nutritionally balanced diet:

http://www.petfoodnutrition.com/nutrition/

Many health disorders can be mitigated or corrected by addressing the nutritional needs of your pet, including obesity, gastrointestinal abnormalities, skin and fur issues, arthritis and a host of other conditions. Many veterinary clinics sell a wide variety of pet foods that are nutritionally fortified, scientifically-proven to promote wellness and some are are therapeutically tailored to specific issues your pet may be facing.

Whatever your personal preference of diet for your pet, it is important to review your choices with your veterinarian to educate yourself on the impact they may have on your pet.

Some types of diets include:

Particularly in the case of raw food, some diets are not to be entered into lightly and require considerable commitment from you, the owner. Mixing of different diets can also have ramifications for your pet.

You may wonder what kinds of supplements or treats you can offer your pet...

The best answer to all of your animal dietary questions is thus,

Educate yourself. Talk to your Vet.

Pets Suffer From Obesity Too

Wed, 21 Aug 2013 16:59:00 GMT

35% of adults aged 20 and over were overweight in 2008, and 11% were obese.
- World Health Organization

Perhaps even more astonishing are the rates of obesity and being overweight in our pets. In a national study on obesity in pets in the United States in 2012, some very sombre results were received.

52.5% of dogs in the US are overweight or obese, amounting to 36.7M dogs
58.3% of cats in the US are overweight or obese, amounting to 43.2M cats
- Association for Pet Obesity Prevention (APOP)

Clearly these afflictions do not only affect the human populace, but we also see it regularly in our family pets. What’s most troubling is that it is largely a preventable condition for them that can also lead to even more serious health complications further on in a pet’s lifespan. So how do our dogs become overweight or obese, and what can we do to bring them back to a healthy weight?

Causes
Excessive weight is now common among pets of any age group, but most prevalent in those middle-aged and onward.

The most common cause for our pets’ weight gain and obesity is us. Through the encouragement of a sedentary lifestyle that goes against their genetic makeup, along with an incorrectly balanced diet to match their activity levels, the number one reason that pets become obese is their own owners. Excessive weight gain can also be the result of the wrong food choice, such as a high-calorie food, or the granting of too many treats. In each of these cases, the pet takes on more energy in the form of calories than they can expend, leading to the storage of the excess.

There can be other causes for weight gain, such as through existing medical conditions, as indicated below:

Whatever the cause of a pet’s excessive weight gain, the cause must be rooted out, for the sake of their health and longevity.

Future Health Complications
What follows is a list of a few of the major issues that a pet owner could be setting their pet up for by allowing them to be overweight and obese. Aside from the obvious horror of knowing that your pet is struggling with their health, imagine as you read your long-term veterinary costs rising higher and higher... Why not switch your pet to a healthy lifestyle to stop these issues before they start?

Aside from the ailments noted above, an overweight and obese pet will be generally uncomfortable and struggle with daily activities, including jumping up to surfaces such as couches or chairs or walk up stairs without suffering from exhaustion. An overweight pet will also have a shorter lifespan than a more robust and fit pet, giving the owner less quality time to spend with their beloved animal.

How to lower their weight to a healthy level
A weight-reduction plan starts with a trip to the veterinarian. With guidance from a vet, the correct exercise regimen to increase energy burn as well as the selection of the appropriate low-calorie diet can be found to help a pet achieve a healthy lifestyle balance and shed the extra pounds.

This can rarely be done alone, so consult your veterinarian if your pet is overweight or obese immediately, not only to find the right food and exercise plan but to also rule out any serious pre-existing medical conditions.

Additionally, many of the best weight-loss foods can only be found at a veterinarian’s office, those rich in dietary fibre and protein, low in fat and with the right caloric balance.

For more questions on how to help a pet lose weight and maintain a healthy lifestyle, contact your veterinarian today.

Dealing With Your Dog's Hot Spots

Wed, 07 Aug 2013 16:53:00 GMT

Hot spots can happen to your pet at any time of year, including summer, all they need is an irritant to get them started. Also known as pyrotramatic dermatitis, or worse yet moist dermatitis, hot spots are a bacterial infection that present on the skin of your dog as an oozing (and moist) reddened area. Those whose pets have had them know that they can be quite itchy and painful for them, sometimes resulting even in hair loss in the region, and also produce a terrible odour.

Causes:

Many allergies as well as pests and parasites become rampant in the summer season, which can lead to an increase in prevalence but hot spots can occur any season. As they are a bacterial infection, scratching, licking and biting only make matters worse. If your pet gets into this habit then there are ways to stop this adverse behaviour.

The fur around the wound will be clipped to expose it to the air to aid in drying the moisture. Before the application of a prescription topical steroid treatment, the area must first be cleaned with an astringent or antiseptic and dried.

In the movie ‘Up’, it was known as the “Cone Of Shame”, but in the case of hot spots it is very necessary to prevent your dog from disrupting the healing process by licking and biting.

As a parent, it is up to you to monitor the wound and ensure your dog is allowing it to heal. Hot spots can spread very quickly if left untreated or under-attended, diligence is important.

If you suspect that your dog is developing a hot spot, see your veterinarian today to begin the healing your dog requires to be happy and irritation-free.

Making the Family Road Trip Fun for You & Your Dog

Mon, 29 Jul 2013 16:07:00 GMT

Aside from your ultimate road trip playlist, the only other things you really need are friends or family, and your dog nicely fits into both of these categories.

For both of you it will be about new shared experiences and companionship on the open highway, but we all know that hours in the car can often lead to discomfort as well. Here’s how to plan ahead to ensure that your canine pal has everything that they need for a great time on the road.

Packing The Car
With some smart preparation, you can be ready for any adventures on your way:

Better Safe Than Sorry
Don’t take chances with your pet’s well-being, keep everyone happy and healthy on your trip:

Road Trip Etiquette
Heed these suggestions of road decorum to keep everyone comfortable:

If you have a great road trip planned for this summer and are bringing your dog along, get in touch with your veterinarian today for your pet’s health information and more suggestions for a fun trip for everyone.

Keeping Your Cat Cool In The Summer

Mon, 22 Jul 2013 18:43:00 GMT

As humans, we typically are very good at adjusting to the increase in temperature, but what about our furry friends at home?

Many pet owners immediately think of their dogs and heatstroke, with the yearly warnings to never leave a dog inside of a hot car. Our feline friends, however, can also feel the heat.

Cats are fairly good at seeking out what they need to maintain a healthy temperature in the summer, but they need our help to let them do it. The ultimate masters of comfort can’t manage it alone.

Signs of Heatstroke & Dehydration

The signs that one would typically watch out for in a dog to spot heatstroke and its associated dehydration are also exhibited by cats. Maintain a diligent eye for symptoms such as:

Increased tiredness... You’d suppose this would be hard to spot in a cat but it is often clear when you see it.
Check the gums... So many health issues can be seen by a check of the mouth and this true in humans as well. Watch for gums that are a deep shade of red rather than the healthy pink.
Distressed Breathing... If your cat seems to be struggling with breathing, is panting or hyperventilating, take note immediately.
Increased heart rate... This coincides with distressed breathing and is also a major sign to watch out for.
Pacing... This is often a manifestation of increased anxiety, but your cat may choose other signs of being “unsettled”.

Should your cat be exhibiting any or several of the above signs, call your local emergency veterinary clinic to see if your cat requires immediate medical attention.

Keep Cool, Kitty

Cats are quite adept at choosing the coolest spots in the house to relax, tiled floors, cooling air vents, porcelain sinks and the like. If you find them in these places, don’t dissuade them from being there, they’re just doing their best to regulate themselves. Keep in mind, however, that there are other ways that you can help them stay comfortable in the summer.

Firstly, on the hottest days of the year, keep your cat inside the house if possible. If your cat manages to get out on their own, ensure that your yard has a cool shaded spot for them to retreat to and stay out of the sun.

Inside the house your primary responsibility as a pet owner is to provide plenty of fresh, cool water for your cat to avoid dehydration and reduce their body temperature. In many cases, cats prefer to have several water sources available to them and also a moving source to keep the water oxygenated. Cats have enough difficulty being sufficiently hydrated as it is, increasing their risk of bladder infection, so it becomes doubly important on the hot days that your cat is encouraged to drink. Another tip: add an ice cube to the water dish for extra refreshment.

Ice works wonders for cooling everyone down, including your cat. You can provide your cat with ice in so many creative ways, from adding a cube to their water dish, to letting them bat several cubes about the floor for fun or even giving them an ice and water snowcone!

Your cat will love cool treats to keep them relaxed and refreshed. Aside from snowcones, another cool treat that you cat may enjoy is plain natural yogurt. Fresh from the fridge, this treat also helps your cat replenish their digestive-aiding bacteria, essential for high-protein diets. Another way to please your little furry friend is to freeze a can of their tinned cat food, then give it to them as a “popsicle” in their bowl.

On hot days, cats often love the feeling of a cool damp towel rubbing over their fur. As cats do not sweat, this is a great way to cool their skin and keep their body temperature at a comfortable level. Your cat may also enjoy the feeling of a cool damp towel being left for them on the floor to lie down on.

There are so many ingenius and fun ways to keep your cat cool, the list could go on. For more ideas, search online and talk to your veterinarian today.

Don't Leave Your Pets In A Hot Vehicle

Thu, 18 Jul 2013 13:45:00 GMT

When it’s hot out, never leave your pets inside the car.

In early July of this year, Canadians were shocked to learn of two separate incidents of young children being left in hot vehicles for extended periods that resulted in deaths from heat stroke. The public was horrified at the news, denouncing the caretakers and wondering “how could anyone place a child in such obvious danger?”

We often think about protecting ourselves and our children, but we must also remember to safeguard our family pets from similar fates.

The Ontario SPCA released this document for reference on this very topic, ‘Facts On Dogs And Heat’ .

In a frightening statistic, temperatures of just 22°C / 72°F outside of the car can rocket up to 47°C / 117°F in a mere 60 minutes ( www.rspca.org.uk ).

Because our pets do not sweat, they are even less able to cope with extreme hot temperatures than we are. Heat stroke is swift to set in, leading to a number of deaths each year.

Don’t assume that because the windows are down that your pet will be safe as this does not provide sufficient ventilation, nor does parking in the shade keep the vehicle cool enough.

The risks for your pet are just too severe, do not leave your pet in a parked car.

For more information on heat stroke and how to keep your pet cool and safe in the summer months, contact your veterinarian today.

Hot Dog?

Mon, 08 Jul 2013 18:45:00 GMT

When the weather gets really hot, it’s a good idea not to have your dog exert too much energy outside as it can lead to heat stroke and dehydration. Your pup does, however, still need their physical and mental exercise all the same.

So what can the two of you do together that’s fun and a workout? Here’s some ideas:

Stairs
Starting a stairs routine with your dog can be both fun and a great exercise for your pet! Toss a toy down the stairs and have your dog fetch it back to you, then repeat. An important note, however, is to not play this game with elderly pets, puppies or those with hip/joint problems.

Treadmill
It’s like going for a walk, but inside! If your dog loves their daily walk and the routine in brings, try this out on the days that it’s too hot or the weather is poor. It may brighten up their day more than you expect and they’ll come back for more.

Find It / Hide & Seek
Who doesn’t love a game of Hide & Seek? This game can be played by hiding treats, or with people as the lure. Another method would be to hide various toys around the house and build them up to fetching them one-by-one as you call them by name.

Shell Game
This one’s pretty simple to play, all you need is 3 cups and a few treats, and you place the treat under one of the upside down cups before shuffling them about. Your dog should follow their nose and use their brain to sort out the location of the morsel.

Laser Chase
Most people associate the Laser Chase with cats, but dogs absolutely love it too. Get a cheap laser pointer and shine it on the floor, wiggling it about the room. Not only will your dog have riots, you will probably cry laughing.

Have fun with your dogs this summer, inside and out, and for other inside exercise tips, contact your veterinarian today!

Pet Health Insurance

Tue, 02 Jul 2013 17:52:00 GMT

You have likely heard your veterinarian talk to you about pet health insurance before. Unfortunately, in many cases pet parents decide to hold-off on purchasing at that time and then don’t put another thought to it until their dog or cat is presented with a medical emergency. It is at this point that they remember the conversation and agonisingly ponder,

“Why didn’t I sign up for pet health insurance when I had the chance?”

- many parents across Canada

So what does one gain from signing up for pet health insurance?

Cost Savings
Depending on your individual pet’s needs, rips to the veterinarian, particularly of the unexpected emergency variety, can be costly. In too many cases, owners across the country are forced to make the heart-wrenching choice between their pet’s well being and their own financial resources at the expense of their pet’s care needs.

Pet health insurance takes the stress out the equation by helping you cover your veterinary bills, often by as much as 80% of fees.

Customisable Coverage
There are many different forms of health insurance coverage for your pets depending on their breed, age and other factors. In many cases dental and alternative remedies & therapies are offered as additional packages, while preventive medicine can also be included.

Peace of Mind
Knowing that your pet will get the care that they need, when they need it, is priceless. By enrolling in pet health insurance you are not only helping your loved one but also making your trips to the veterinarian much less stressful for the both of you.

Start researching pet health insurance today online and get yourself a free quote. It is more cost-effective than you think.

And as always, ask your veterinarian for more details.

Is Coprophagia Rampant In Your Home?

Mon, 24 Jun 2013 19:11:00 GMT

Dogs are sweet, loving, loyal and adorable pets, but sometimes they eat poop and we don’t want their panting hot breath within 10 feet of us.

While not necessarily an immediately unhealthy habit, it is considered all the same to be a fairly disgusting one as far as dog owners are concerned. So why do some dogs indulge in coprophagia, what does this mean for their health and how can we dissuade them from continuing?

Why They Eat It
There are plenty of reasons why some dogs indulge in this habit, all of which can be looked at as natural responses so try not to get too cross!

Just As Good The Second Time
We may recoil at the thought but sometimes they just really like the taste. There can often be a lot of undigested nutrients in dog fæces that get voided with the waste, so to them it still tastes pretty darned appealing. This also leads us to the second reason...

Diet Is Lacking
Dogs that aren’t getting the nutrition that they need from their food will sometimes turn to coprophagia in an effort to get more of those nutrients that were left behind. This is an example of why it is wise to take a poop-eating dog to the veterinarian when you see the habit is continuing, as your dog may well need a new diet to be at optimal health.

Rex Did It First
In homes with more than one dog, if one of them begins the habit, particularly the eldest, there is a good chance that the youngest might try it themselves. Dogs, and especially puppies, look to their pack superiors for guidance and will from time to time mirror behaviour.

Tidying House
Dogs can eat their poop simply because they want to keep their territory clean. This may be because they’ve been chastised for defecating in a particular location and don’t want their owners to find out, but it is also theorised that it could stem from a survival instinct as a method of not drawing predators towards the pack.

Cry For Attention
Dogs will do just about anything to get the attention of their owners, and unfortunately sometimes they have to resort to bad behaviour to get it. Even an angry owner is still paying attention to them, but what they really should have is love, interaction and play. A bored pet is more likely to act out.

Health Significance
Fortunately, on its own, the act of eating of fæces does not pose a serious health risk. The risks to health come from what can sometimes (and statistically fairly seldom) be found inside of the fæces. Parasites are often spread through contact with poop, as do many viruses such as Parvovirus. It is important not to let your dog eat the fæces of other dogs for this reason.

Additionally, as mentioned earlier, coprophagia can be a sign that a dog is not getting the nutrition that it needs from its diet. This can pose health risk to your pet over time so it is important to check with a veterinarian when the habit is forming.

Putting an End To It
There are a few products on the market to help stop your pet from eating their waste, many of which are food additives such as “FOR-BID”, which make the stool taste undesirable, and some natural methods you can employ after the void is passed such as habanero sauce. It may take a few attempts to find the product or method that works best for your particular pet, and breaking a habit can take time.

Consult your veterinarian today if your dog eats their own fæces to check on their health, and review the many natural and product-based solutions available to help you stop the behaviour.

Ticks, Lyme Disease & Your Dog

Mon, 17 Jun 2013 21:16:00 GMT

The photo that you see here is not to scale, if only it were this easy to spot them coming. Rather, the majority of unfed ticks in the wild are a mere 1-5 mm in length. This makes them incredibly difficult to spot as they lay in waiting on blades of long grass or low bushes for the next host to walk past.

Ticks feed on the blood of their carrier. They are incredibly slow moving creatures and once they have come into contact with their host it can take them hours to find a good place to affix to. Not only do they begin very small, but they also have a typically painless bite, which makes it hard to know if you’ve been chosen as prey until the pest is already engorged.

Closely related to spiders, the parasitic tick gives you another reason to dislike arachnids.

Lyme Disease

The reason that ticks are problematic is that in rare cases one might be carrying a borrelia bacteria, which cause Lyme Disease.

It’s not just humans that can contract Lyme Disease, and quite often it is our canine family members who find the ticks first. Dogs are lower to the ground, don’t wear pants, and an easy victim while on walks through wooded or longer-grassed areas.

Ticks that carry Lyme Disease are present across Canada, and that includes all of Southern Ontario and an infection in your dog can lead to joint inflammation, lameness and kidney damage. In the majority of cases, a regimen of antibiotics as an outpatient for several weeks will suffice for treatment, but sometimes damage is permanent and certain symptoms may remain with your dog, such as joint pain.

Check with your veterinarian today to find out how to best prevent your dog from getting Lyme Disease.

For more information and an early diagnosis of Lyme Disease, see here:
http://www.petmd.com/dog/conditions/infectious-parasitic/c_dg_lyme_disease#.UcBmHvnVCWU

For more information on Lyme Disease in humans, visit the Canadian Lyme Disease Foundation at canlyme.com .

Sick As A Dog: When Vomiting Becomes A Concern

Mon, 10 Jun 2013 19:17:00 GMT

Disclaimer: This article contains several instances of the word “vomit”, but at least there are no pictures of it.

One idea about our canine friends that seems to have perpetuated throughout the years is that dogs are presumed to vomit frequently and that it is normal. This is partially true but also highly misleading.

Vomiting is as natural a process as any and is a built-in defence against the ingestion of harmful materials by expelling that which is harmful. In this way, dog vomit is normal.

It isn’t normal, however, for it to be a common occurrence. If our pet’s vomiting mechanisms are set into motion, this means that their body has been thrown into defence-mode by a threat and is trying to protect itself. For this reason, as pet owners, it is vital to assess why they have vomited and whether our pet is still in danger.

When to take note but not to worry
As mentioned previously, disgorging is a perfectly natural response that can and surely will happen in your dog’s lifetime. For the majority of dogs one might anticipate an occurrence of a few times within a year.

Grass-eating is often associated with occasional vomiting. It is absolutely true that many dogs love to pick through the grass and other delicacies in the backyard and this can cause them to vomit. It is, however, important to consider why this is causing them to be sick. Many plants can cause stomach-upset when consumed, perhaps a chemical residue remains on the grass and foliage, or perhaps the dog is foraging in an attempt to settle an already volatile stomach. If you are concerned about botanical or chemical poisoning, call the Pet Poison Hotline at 1-800-213-6680 and for more reading have a look at their Spring Toxins entry here to avoid the need for emergency medical intervention If poison is not the worry, take note of the frequency of your dog’s vomiting and make an appointment to visit your veterinarian to discuss it.

When vomiting requires immediate attention
There are also many very serious conditions that can cause your dog to vomit.

Illness is often a cause for expelling as our dogs can get viruses like our flus as well that often go by undetected. The virus may pass on its own or may require medical attention. Not all viruses are flu-like, however, and there are many afflictions that can put your pet in great danger. Watch out for:

Any of these items or other concerns in concert with your dog’s initial ejection are indicators that you need to seek emergency care.

Poisoning is a terrifying ordeal for you and your dog and one that requires immediate intervention. The list of things that dogs are willing to consume is immeasurable so it is important to ensure that your pet’s surroundings are safe. Your pet may begin vomiting on its own but often they do not when a poison is consumed. It is vital to act quickly and contact the Pet Poison Hotline at 1-800-213-6680 and call your local animal emergency hospital.

Vomiting is a symptom of a multitude of conditions so it is important to consider exactly why your pet has done so with each occurrence. You may learn something new about your dog’s habits and dietary needs, you might have a severe medical situation on your hands, or you might be witnessing an early indicator of some other internal abnormality.

Remember, If it happens more than a few times in a year, it’s time to talk to your vet.

Adopting a Pet

Tue, 28 May 2013 17:51:00 GMT

Any time that you are thinking of welcoming a new member to the family, it is important for both you and your new pet to have your needs fulfilled in the new relationship. With some preparative reflection you’ll both be happy and healthy as a result.

Is Your Home Pet Ready? Your choice of pet should reflect your living conditions as best you can. It is worth thinking about what type of home you have and how large or small it may be when looking at a new pet. Many pets like to chew on plants so you must also take into account how many poisonous plants are in your home and whether or not you are willing to protect, move or get rid of them. If considering a dog, it is important to also look into making your yard a safe place to play, and in many cases you might need to pursue fencing.

Your Family. Many aspects of your existing family also come into play when looking at a new pet. If you have children, how old are they? Certain types of animal and certain breeds are better for particular ages of children than others might be, this should be taken into account. There is also the obvious consideration of whether anyone in the household has a pet allergy. Aside from the human aspect, what other pets do you have in the home? Their ages, species and breed can also affect their interactions with a new family member.

Will A New Pet Fit Into Your Life? Many of us already think of ourselves as incredibly busy people so it is vital to contemplate how a new pet would fit into your lifestyle and how much time you will have to provide your new pet with the love and attention it needs. It is important to think about what motivates you to want a new pet because they will rely on you for their entire life to care for and protect them.

There are so many benefits to being a pet parent, many of which were described here in a previous entry, “Having A Pet Brings Health & Happiness”. Just make sure that you perform your due diligence before taking the leap so that the whole family benefits.

Is Your Dog Afraid of Thunderstorms?

Wed, 22 May 2013 14:00:00 GMT

Spring weather brings with it some spectacularly wet weather, and even the occasional thunderstorm. These electrifying events are not only awesome in their power and beauty but also terrifying to many and a reminder of how vulnerable we are, including to our dogs.

Not all canines suffer from a phobia of astraphobia (fear of thunder and lightning), but those that do can show their discomfort in a variety of ways. Some dogs may present their fear in a general state of unrest and apprehension through pacing, whining, trembling or hiding while other cases can be much more severe, causing harm to furniture or even themselves while wrought with panic.

Some rescued dogs or certain breeds may show a higher tendency towards this phobia than others, exhibiting an increased anxiety even at the early approach of a storm, but it is not yet clear what part of the storm is most frightful to them.

It can be terrible to see your beloved pet shaking with fear in their eyes, so how can we help them to overcome their phobia of thunderstorms?

The key is in a behavioural modification regimen known as “systematic desensitization”, which helps you to retrain your pet over time to adjust their response to the frightful stimuli that is causing them grief. By exposing your dog to storm-like situations such as a recorded sound of rain and thunder or sudden flashes of light, and rewarding only good behaviour and lack of anxiety, you go go a long way towards giving your dog the tools they need to minimise their discomfort. Be sure to talk to your vet about what type of program would work for you and your pet, if you go too quickly for your pet you could make matters worse.

Important considerations:

The Dangers of Parvovirus

Tue, 14 May 2013 14:08:00 GMT

While generally less common than might cause panic among the masses, parvovirus, or just simply “parvo”, is a condition that dog owners should be aware of, even in Southern Ontario.

While I was growing up I helped out a fair bit at my family’s veterinary practice just barely outside of the Golden Horseshoe region. I mainly did a portion of the cleaning duties but I also assisted with the care of the in-patients that were either boarding or weren’t yet healthy enough to go home.

Our veterinary practice had an isolation run in a whole other area of the building for dogs that were too sick and contagious to be near the others. I didn’t like that room one bit as a child, likely because I knew that many pets who had to stay there didn’t get to go home. Year after year, in too many cases this was due to parvovirus, which carries with it an approximate mortality rate of 20%.

Parvo is very highly contagious, spreading via anything that has had contact with contaminated feces. Most often this is done by licking paws after unknowingly walking through it but it can also be carried on our shoes or another dog’s fur for instance.

Once contracted, the disease as an incubation period of several days before the virus attacks the gastrointestinal tract with full force, causing a sort of “wasting” effect on the dog.

Parvovirus can be treated with intensive care at a veterinary hospital but early detection is vital.

Here are some symptoms to watch for:

Any of these signs on their own are call to seek veterinary care as soon as possible, even if parvovirus is not diagnosed. Call your local Emergency Veterinary Hospital if unsure.

Your best safeguard to protect your pet from contracting parvo is to have them vaccinated against it. This is typically done while puppies are very young so is a very important part of a young dog’s vaccine schedule.

Contact your veterinarian for more details.

Intestinal Worms Your Pet

Tue, 07 May 2013 14:55:00 GMT

I’m sure we can all agree, worms are disgusting.

While the warmer weather sees a renewal of so many beautiful and wondrous things, it seems a cruel
juxtaposition to have it also rejuvenate the dreaded worm season.

As pet owners, it is up to us to protect our pets from parasites. When you see your veterinarian this Spring be sure to ask about intestinal worm prevention, but in the meantime here are some details:

There Are 4 Common Types of Intestinal Worms

The best way to look for worms is for a veterinarian to run a stool sample through testing, particularly since
only roundworms and tapeworms can ever be seen by the naked eye. For a slightly less horrid visual of
what these species look like, see the image below. If, however, you want to see what they really look like,
a Google image search for “pet intestinal worms” is all you need to ensure that you immediately pick up the
phone and book your next vet appointment right away.

Symptoms
The primary indicators of a potential worm infestation include the following:

It is not uncommon for a case of worm infestation to lie in waiting for for long periods of time, which can
cause a problem specific to those who have not spayed or neutered their pet... When a mother becomes
stressed due to the later stages of pregnancy the parasites will wake from their dormancy and infest both
the mother and the yet unborn puppies or kittens, an unfortunate incident that happens more frequently than
you might think.

Treatment
Worms cannot be killed easily by nonprescription medications, or most times, not at all with this course of treatment. It is essential to visit your veterinarian for a stool sample and a dewormer that is dependant on the type of worms present and early detection can be vital.

Intestinal worms can also pose a threat to human health, and particularly children who play outside where animal feces may be present because it’s not just our pets that contract intestinal worms.

Do your family and your extended pet family a favour, don’t miss your spring veterinary appointment this year and be sure to follow up on all deworming and preventative advice as directed.

Heartworm: A Threat You Can't Ignore

Thu, 25 Apr 2013 17:38:00 GMT

We’ve briefly discussed heartworms before in this space, but it’s time to get a little more in depth about the issue.

So what are heartworms?

As you can imagine, it is an often fatal condition to be infested.

Too often we find that pet owners may take the “It’ll never happen to my family” approach and avoid regular heartworm prevention but this comes with serious risk, particularly in Ontario.

In a 2010 Canada-wide study of heartworms in dogs that was published by the Ontario Veterinary College’s department of Pathobiology, results show us that incidents of heartworm have been on the rise to the tune of 60% from 2002-2010 and that 75% of all positive tests for the parasite in Canada happen in Ontario. Keep in mind, however, that these are only the number of reported cases, and there is currently no system in place to track every case of the disease.

Those are startling numbers that illustrate the importance of prevention, particularly when shown that 80% of those positive tests were of pets that had not been on a preventive medication regime. In those cases when the pet had been on a medication, pet owners had forgotten to follow the prescribed intervals for dosage.

How can you avoid your pet contracting heartworms?

Book a trip to your vet to run a heartworm screening. Testing is the only way to detect the affliction at an early stage and preventive medications cannot be prescribed without a test being run first. This is most often done in the spring and your veterinarian will provide you and your pet with the tools you need to stay heartworm-free. This regime involves either a pill or a topical solution to be placed between the shoulder blades monthly during the mosquito season. A visit to your veterinarian is best timed before the mosquito larvae have the opportunity to hatch.

Heartworm prevention is a very serious business but it’s not difficult.

Make sure to visit your veterinarian this spring to arm yourself against this scourge.

Having A Pet Brings Health & Happiness

Thu, 25 Apr 2013 17:34:00 GMT

Springtime is a wonderful season and a great time to get back outdoors and spend time with your dog or curl up by an open window in a comfy chair with your cat.

It feels great to be with our pets and there’s good reason for that. Owning a pet is good for our health!

Relief from the stresses of life...
There have been a multitude of medical studies dedicated to the health effects of pet ownership, and one of the biggest ways that pets make us feel better is through stress relief. Those who have pets in their family tend to have reduced levels of the stress-causing hormone cortisol in their bloodstream, resulting in less stress, lower cholesterol and lower blood pressure. And it’s not just stroking your pet that does it, just having them around makes a difference.

Here are some more health perks from owning a pet:

Humans and our pets have a long history together and there are plenty of reasons for why we gravitate towards each other that have been handed down through the ages. Just look at us, we make a great pair, don’t we?

Make sure to spend some quality time with your pets this season, you’ll both reap the benefits. Take care of your furry family and they’ll take care of you.

Spring Check-Up - Reasons To Visit Your Vet This Spring

Thu, 11 Apr 2013 04:00:00 GMT

It’s been said before, but we’ll say it again because it’s advice worth heeding.

Be sure to visit your local veterinarian this spring for a checkup with your pets.

Why is it so important to go now? Here’s several reasons:

Bugs.
Want a list of the little blighters that can not only be a nuisance but also cause serious illness? We’re happy to oblige.

Bugs can be found everywhere and don’t mess about. Use a spring trip to the vet as a time to renew your yearly.

Grooming
Many veterinary clinics also offer a grooming service, and if yours doesn’t then they can definitely recommend a good one.

Immunisations
Vaccines schedules often catch up with us when we aren’t looking. Check your pet’s medical records or bring them in to the vet to make sure your pet is guarded against many of the deadliest diseases. Your vaccines may change from region to region based on the local history. If you’ve moved within the last year then this is a must.

Growing Up
Has your pet passed from puppyhood to adulthood in the past year? From adulthood to being a senior? These changes in life stages can bring new experiences and challenges. A trip to your vet can make sure you know what to expect and the proper care to provide to keep your animals healthy.

Proper Identification
Does your pet bring their ID every time they go out? With the warmer weather, incidents of pets wandering off rises because of the great smells and experiences spring has to offer. If your pets don’t have the proper identification in the form of ID tags and microchipping, getting them back home again can be a lot tougher.

There are even other reasons, but as spring goes on, we will elaborate some more on some of these issues and others to help you keep your and your furry family healthy and protected. In the meantime...

Book a visit to your local veterinarian.

Spring Outdoor Dangers For Your Pet

Thu, 04 Apr 2013 04:00:00 GMT

Spring is when most of us start to get out in the garden and ready our properties for the sunny days ahead. It is important to note that his time of year also comes the dangers associated with it so it’s important to review how we can keep our beloved furry family members out of the emergency room.

Outside Dangers for our Pets

Fertilizers and Pesticides
Keeping your lawn and gardens in top-top shape takes a lot of work and sometimes a little chemical help can go a long way. Make no mistake though, fertilizers and pesticides are extremely harmful if consumed by dogs and cats. Make sure not to let them eat any fertilizer and if they get pesticides into their fur be sure to give them a thorough bath immediately before they lick themselves clean or eat the foliage. Better yet, don’t let them in the yard while your yard isn’t yet safe from pesticide use, and there are safer alternatives to explore. A handy tip to remember: if you wouldn’t let a human baby play in it, don’t let your pets either.

Allergies
Our pets get allergies too, just like us. Watch out for symptoms such as swollen eyes, sneezing, dry skin and itching, it may be time to visit your veterinarian.

Puddle Play
Dogs, just like kids, often find it hard to resist a puddle, whether in your yard on while you’re sharing a walk. In the springtime in particular it is important that your pet doesn’t drink from a standing puddle of water. These may contain traces of chemicals and in the street there could well be road salt residue. Furthermore, warm standing water is a haven for bacteria. Dogs that regularly drink out of puddles often acquire gastrointestinal ailments. Instead, always have a supply of clean and fresh water available to your pet, and if you’re on a walk bring a bottle.

Tidying Up The Back Yard
Frankly, when the snow all melts we often never know what we’ll find underneath. When the snow is gone it’s important to pick up any major debris that your pet may eat that could be harmful and perhaps even any sharp stones around that could get lodged in the pads of their feet. Be sure to also pick up any of those “landmines” that were hidden over the winter months, feces is a tempting treat to many dogs but it’s not necessarily a healthy habit.

Remember, if your pet consumes a toxic substance, call the Pet Poison Helpline immediately at 1-800-213-6680, and when you have a moment, visit petpoisonhelpline.com for more suggestions on how to keep all of your family safe.

Fleas: Eliminate The Problem Before It Starts

Wed, 03 Apr 2013 13:48:00 GMT

Fleas. They’re horrible little things aren’t they? Unfortunately, they’re not as scarce as their circuses of old. What can you do to prevent your home and your pets from an infestation?

There’s actually plenty of tricks and treatments that you can employ to fight and even prevent the menace.

Making Your Home Flea-Free
There are many simple ways to make your home less appealing to fleas and to also rid it of any existing bugs. Here are some tips to keep in mind as you’re cleaning house.

Helping Your Pet Stay Parasite-Free
Flea prevention doesn’t end with cleaning house. For this reason, many pet owners choose springtime as an opportunity to make an appointment with their veterinarian for a check-up and start to their yearly flea and tick control regime. There are many varieties of preventative measures on the market with varying degrees of effectiveness. Consult your veterinarian this spring on what type of treatment is right for your pet.

Call your local veterinarian today to book your spring check-up!

Easter Can Be A Dangerous Time For Pets

Thu, 28 Mar 2013 04:00:00 GMT

Unfortunately, these same problems arise during the close of winter and early spring. The next festive event that threatens the health of your pets is Easter.

While it may often seem like a less extravagant occasion, many households with children celebrate the day with baskets, treats, chocolate eggs and the mysterious Easter Bunny. While children revel in the joy of the egg hunts and the sweets, your pets unfortunately have access to some pretty dangerous stuff.

Keeping treat baskets away from the reach of your pets is very important, and here’s why:

Also, when you’re young one of the biggest excitements of Easter is taking part in an Easter egg hunt. These will often happen in the home or the backyard so it is important to be careful when when it comes to any small treats or chocolate eggs. Make sure that the Easter Bunny doesn’t leave them where pets can find them or leave any behind to be eaten later!

As always, make sure you know the contact details of your nearest Emergency Veterinary Clinic because you never know what surprises life may bring.

Have a safe and happy Easter!

Spring Cleaning For Your Pets: Time For Grooming!

Thu, 14 Mar 2013 04:00:00 GMT

Now that we are earnestly leaving the winter months behind us for many of us our thoughts turn to spring cleaning. While we wipe our windows and swif our swiffers about, let’s not forget about our furry friends, who after a long winter can probably use a session at the groomers!

Either visit to your local groomer or a pampering afternoon at home if you have the tools of the trade carry many benefits for your pets. I will review some of them here.

Bathing
A great wash for your dog is so important to their hair and skincare regimen, coupled with regular brushing and a well balanced diet. Bathing your dog with a non-dehydrating and soothing shampoo will remove the buildup of mud, road salt, sand and who knows what else that’s accrued over the winter. Afterward, they will feel revitalised and you won’t miss the smell. Cuddles all around!

A Fresh Haircut
For long-haired cats and dogs a spring haircut can be just what the doctor ordered (and your vacuum). When the temperature drops we often let our pets’ hair grow in the winter to allow them a little extra comfort. Now that the warmer weather is approaching, those winter coats will start to drop and long-haired pets could do with a fresh ‘do. Not to mention, a mud puddle somewhere is just waiting for a romp.

Seeing a professional groomer can have many benefits, as they are often be able to clean and trim areas that you may not be able to access as easily such as the muzzle, ears, backside and footpads.

After a trim, make sure to heap the compliments on your friend because they too can be sensitive to their loved ones opinions. Even dogs like to look their best!

Nail Trimming
Nobody does a mani-pedi like your local groomer does. Tie in this service with your trip to the groomer or if your pet will let you make sure to add this to your official spring cleaning list. Paws with long nails have a tendency to retain mud and other exposed mushy materials that were buried under the snow, nobody wants that in the house.

Flea Detection
Another benefit to a professional groomer is that these professionals are also experts at flea spotting! If the groomer gives you an all-clear on the pest report, make sure to visit your veterinarian to start your flea prevention schedule to keep them flea-free.

With these spa treats your pet will not only look and smell great but they will absolutely love you for it.

And what the heck, why not get them a brand new collar to complete the makeover!

Spring Allergies & Your Pet

Thu, 07 Mar 2013 05:00:00 GMT

It’s almost springtime in earnest, the signs will be starting to show. Warmer temperatures, melting snow, an awful lot of rain, budding plants...

For many, it is the best time of year. A season of renewal, of fresh life.
For some, it means something else... allergies.

As humans we can commiserate with each other over our stuffy noses and itchy eyes, but our pets also suffer a form of hay fever that becomes rampant in the spring. In cats and dogs, this allergic reaction is called atopy. Differently than you and I, pets react in an entirely different way, most often exhibiting persistently itchy skin. If you see felix of fido scratching, licking and biting in a never ending quest for relief, they probably are suffering from allergies. This constant attention to their skin often results in very painful sores that cause infection.

If you see these signs of suffering from seasonal allergies, a visit to your local veterinarian is in order to help them control their itching before the sores manifest.

Shedding: How You Know Spring Is Coming

Thu, 28 Feb 2013 05:00:00 GMT

You may have noticed the temperatures getting warmer...

...so has your pet.

Our pets always build up a thick winter coat when the colder weather comes and as the thermometer creeps higher that’s the signal for them to go back to their sleek and slender selves. They can’t wait to share their surplus fur with you, and soon it will turn up everywhere from your dryer filter to your best outfit.

Get ahead of their shedding by brushing your pet daily. This not only eases your need for sticky rollers but also has health benefits for your cat or dog. I’ll list just a few perks of regular brushing below:

Some breeds benefit from a regular trip to a professional groomer and the change in seasons is a great time to book their next visit. Dogs with a particularly fine coat tend to mat easily so a regular grooming regime can help prevent those hot spots from occurring.

As the winter turns to spring, keep your pet happy and healthy with regular brushing. Both your finest outfits and your friendships will benefit.

Keep Your Emergency Vet's Info Handy

Thu, 14 Feb 2013 05:00:00 GMT

We at the Brampton Emergency Veterinary Clinic know that keeping your pets safe and healthy isn’t always an easy. Prepare as you may, some emergency trips are unavoidable. For this reason, it is of the utmost importance to keep your emergency vet’s info handy for times of need.

If you are a regular reader of our Vet News page, you know that there are many hazards waiting but unfortunately our pets often don’t know better. Each season and environment offers its own dangers but you cannot always plan for the unexpected.

Probably the best measure that you can take to ready yourself in case of emergency is to keep your emergency vet’s info at the ready. Program their number into your telephones, and also that of the Pet Poison Hotline should your pet ingest a harmful substance. Also wise is to record the address of the nearest emergency vet so that you can quickly plan the shortest route to the hospital. If you own a smartphone, add them as a contact with this information for quick contact and GPS mapping.

If you live in the Brampton area, the details for the Emergency Veterinary Clinic are as follows:

Unit 10, Wexford Road, Wexford Square Plaza,
Brampton, Ontario
1-905-495-9907

Pet Poison Hotline 1-800-213-6680

Our service area is Acton, Georgetown, Milton, Mississauga, Brampton, Caledon, Bolton, Orangeville, Mono and Palgrave.

When seconds can make the difference, why waste a moment? Program your local emergency vet’s info now!

Healthy Teeth & Gums Help Prevent Medical Emergencies

Thu, 07 Feb 2013 05:00:00 GMT

It sounds drastic, doesn’t it?

It’s true though, ensuring that your pet’s teeth and gums are healthy goes a long way to avoiding deadly heart, lung and kidney disease. What starts as periodontal disease can quickly spread throughout the body.

A multitude of pet products are advertised as the weapon to prevent against bacteria, plaque, tartar build up and gingivitis, yet it is perhaps one of the areas of pet health that get overlooked the most. Perhaps we too often assume that toys and chewable treats are enough to stem the tide.

In a staggering statistic, the American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA), reports that nearly two-thirds of pet owners do not provide the dental care that is recommended by their veterinarians. www.healthypet.com

Ways that your veterinarian can help include oral examinations and dental cleanings. Cleanings are recommended on a yearly basis for cats and small dogs or a two year routine for larger breeds. Cleanings and other dental procedures are performed with the same care and diligence as major surgery.

Not all pet dental care takes place in the vet’s office, either. Pet owners play perhaps the most vital role in ensuring their pet dental health. Oral care toys and treats from the store certainly help as the chewing and gnawing come naturally to our pets and go a long way to removing plaque. And just like you would do at home for yourself, regular teeth brushing at home is essential. Not to mention, those appointments to the vet aren’t going to book themselves either...

If you haven’t already, consider starting a dental care routine for your pet. Contact your local veterinarian today to book an appointment for an oral examination and to learn more.

Snowed In! Being Prepared For An Emergency

Fri, 01 Feb 2013 05:00:00 GMT

Now that most or all of Ontario has seen some snowfall this winter, it is time to think about the Big One. Most of us have experienced them before, those times when the world seems to shut down and everyone is forced to stay indoors. The Big One is that major snowstorm that brings everything to a halt and it’s almost always hard to tell if “this is it” until you’re already stuck.

Disaster and emergency preparedness is something that every household should consider.

Obviously this applies not only in the winter but also during other seasons as well, but in Southern Ontario our individual odds are much higher that we’ll be struck by a massive blizzard than we are a tornado or hurricane. The winter months often see power-outages due to wind or ice and undrivable conditions. These are a part of the Canadian experience but you don’t have to be caught short. If the Great Ice Storm of 1998 is any indication, you can never be too prepared.

If you need help with your emergency preparedness or have questions, contact your veterinarian for more information. If caught unprepared, you and your pet may not weather the storm as readily as you might expect.

Pocket Pets and the Cold

Thu, 24 Jan 2013 05:00:00 GMT

We often discuss pet care for dogs and cats, but many of us have smaller pets too. We affectionately refer to these friends as our “pocket pets”, and the winter can be hard on them too.

All birds, exotic and pocket pets have different living arrangements, but most require very specific conditions in which to thrive. Here are some tips to consider for your smaller friends while the weather is colder:

When in doubt, the last point is arguably the most important. Literature on the care of our smaller friends can be hard to come by. Don’t hesitate to call your veterinarian if you have any questions regarding your pocket pet’s care.

Leaving Pets In Your Car For Extended Periods

Thu, 17 Jan 2013 05:00:00 GMT

Most of us have heard the sage wisdom that we are not to leave our pets in hot cars during the summer months as it causes great risk to our furry friends. Many pets are lost every year to heat stroke from being left in a hot vehicle by their owners, but did you know that a similar danger applies during the winter?

Leaving your pet in the car in the winter can also cause extremely serious harm to your pet.

Cars are very good at intensifying the outside climate. Because of this, hot cars become ovens and cold cars act as refrigerators, trapping in the cold. Over time, the inside of a vehicle will actually be colder than the outside temperature. Consider a pet left in a car for a time while the temperature outside is -10 degrees. A pet left in these conditions for extended periods will quickly develop hypothermia.

For further reading on how to identify onsetting hypothermia, review our article " Baby It’s Cold Outside ."

If your pet is exhibiting signs of hypothermia it is important to contact your emergency veterinary clinic immediately. To reach the Emergency Veterinary Clinic in brampton, call 1-905-495-9907.

Off-Leash Winter Walks

Thu, 10 Jan 2013 05:00:00 GMT

Walking your dog can be a most rewarding experience for both you and your pet. It is a time to bond and a time to play, but there are some serious considerations to take during the winter, especially if your friend is off-leash.

Off-leash parks and trails are very popular and a great way for well-trained dogs to exercise, practice their obedience and meet new friends. Now make no mistake, this is not a warning against off-leash dog walking.

It’s a warning of the dangers of snowstorms.

If you regularly read our news, you’ll remember that we wrote about “Winter Walks” in another article on November 22nd, providing tips on how to keep your friend warm and safe on your daily excursions. But not every day is a winter wonderland, sometimes the weather is downright nasty and this can cause problems for your pet when off-leash.

When a dog is off-leash on snow or ice, it can be difficult for them to keep their bearings and they can lose their scent. This is less of a problem in a smaller enclosed area such as many off-leash parks, however, if your pet is able to wander too far they can easily become lost. During a snowstorm when the wind is blowing and new snow is continually covering the ground, the dangers are increased. Pets can even become disoriented and lost on their own property during a snowstorm, it’s best not to take your chances with off-leash walks.

The number of dogs lost in Canada dramatically increases in the winter months. Consider the following for your snowy walks:

Avoid unnecessary trips to the Emergency Vet for hypothermia and the fear and dread associated with a lost pet. Avoid off-leash walks in the snow.

Cats & Winter House Plants

Thu, 03 Jan 2013 05:00:00 GMT

Doesn’t a house look so much more inviting with a hint of green inside during the bleak winter months? Does the smell of fresh pine not beg for a warm hearth, by which you can warm your toes after a long and chilly walk? Few plants survive the winter months and some of these have become staples of holiday home dressings, but it is important to remember that while they may look beautiful, not all plants are safe for your cat.

The majority of cat owners, or flatmates as your friend would probably describe it, have first hand experience with the difficulties of having living plants in the house. Cats love to rub their faces and chew on our greenery but the combination of domesticity and foreign foliage make it near impossible for your cat to know whether a plant is safe to chew on or not. It is up to us as pet owners to ensure that they only have access to that which won’t cause harm.

Only theories exist as to why a carnivorous species like felines would need to chew plants. Some propose that they do so out of a hereditary trait in their genetics, helping them to acquire more fibre to assist in digestion of food and hairballs. Large quantities of grass can also force a cat to vomit and regurgitate what hairballs are in its stomach. The relief felt after this would only reinforce the habit. Some plants, such as catnip, contain chemicals that give cats great pleasure. Perhaps they chew on foliage because it simply makes them feel good.

So with all of the plants that are brought in the house during the holidays and winter to make the house look and smell great, which ones are dangerous?

also

So what can you do to prevent your cat from chewing these items?
Only place them in cat-proof areas Consider offering your friend cat grass to divert their attention Mothballs can be added to the plant’s soil Spray the leaves and flowers with a dissuasive spray, many citrus or sour apple products are on the market A popular method is the water spray bottle or an airhorn, however these methods require catching them in the act

Checking with a florist or through other means to ensure the plants you bring home are safe for your feline friend is always important, any time of year. This winter, make your home both beautiful and safe for everyone and avoid an unnecessary trip to the emergency vet. For other indoor holiday tips, check out our post, “ Pets & The Holidays .”

All Dried Out

Thu, 27 Dec 2012 05:00:00 GMT

If you are a regular follower of our posts, you’re ready for many of the dangers your pet faces as the temperature falls and the winter winds blow. You’re prepared for the cold walks with your dog, the pitfalls of decorating for the holidays, the possible flair-up of your dog’s arthritis pain and you’re on the lookout for signs of hypothermia. You are ready to keep you and your friends warm and dry this winter, no matter what Old Man Winter throws at you. But are you preventing dehydration?

Whether your pet spends a lot of time indoors or outdoors, dehydration can be a significant problem for your dog or cat at this time of year.

In these colder temperatures and the whipping frosty wind it can be a struggle to keep warm, as you well know, and this uses up a lot of energy. To keep the body’s furnace running your pet will need additional energy from food and water, particularly if they spend time outside. If an outdoor water source has frozen over, consider a heated water dish to prevent icing over. And always make sure there is a bowl of water inside the house waiting for them as well. To keep your friend’s energy and fitness levels up and their coat in prime condition, consider adjusting their food portions if needed.

Your pet’s skin may also suffer at this time of year. Cold dry winds outside and furnace blasted homes inside can be very hard on their skin and fur. If a pet is regularly irritated they may scratch and bite incessantly at the dried out regions, causing hotspots and sores to occur. To help prevent such sores and dried out skin, consider adding fatty-acids as a supplement to their food. This will help both the skin and fur retain their moisture. As another preventative measure, fur brushing will increase circulation to the skin and coat. Do it often and do it with gusto. If bathing is absolutely necessary, do not do it too frequently as you do not want to dry out your pet further but make sure that shampoos and conditioners containing products like oatmeal are used to help soothe the angry skin.

Ensure a happy, healthy and moisturised pet this season, and the only snow this year will be on the lawn.

Winter Arthritis Pain

Thu, 13 Dec 2012 05:00:00 GMT

Arthritis is a common ailment and while many of us suffer from its associated pain, it’s not just humans who feel the sting of joint pain in the winter months. Many of our furry friends are also afflicted with arthritis and the bitter and often damp Ontario cold can be very painful for them as well.

While usually touching our elderly white-whiskered dogs and cats, arthritis can frequently show up in young pets as well. Frequent precursors to this condition are bone fractures and obesity. A break in the bone can leave it susceptible to arthritis after healing, while the additional stress placed on joints and bones by obesity leaves our overweight friends at much greater risk of developing the condition.

Now that the weather is damp and cold, as it often is between November and March, your pet’s arthritis will be severely aggravated.

Reasons to take note:

Any of these signs suggest that a trip to the veterinarian is in order.

It is vitally important, however, to never medicate your friend with human medications, prescription or from the pharmacy shelves unless prescribed by a veterinarian. Many of our painkillers can be fatal. For instance, just a single tablet of Tylenol can be all it takes for a cat.

Keep warm this winter, and if your pet has arthritis, consider letting them stay indoors as much as possible. Let them go outside to void but bring them back into the warmth of the house afterwards.

For more winter tips, see our article, “ Baby, It’s Cold Outside ”.