As pet owners, we can attest that flea infestation can not only be annoying but also extremely dangerous to our pets. Fleas can cause severe skin irritation, and anemia, and even transmit deadly diseases. As we approach the fall season, it’s essential to be proactive in preventing fleas before they become a problem. In this article, we will discuss the flea life cycle, the dangers of fleas infesting your pet, signs to look out for, the benefits of flea prevention, and why you should purchase flea prevention medication from us, your trusted veterinarian.

Flea Life Cycle:

Fleas have a life cycle that consists of four stages; egg, larvae, pupae, and adult. The eggs can be found on your pet’s bedding, furniture, and carpet. Next, they hatch into larvae, which then feed on organic debris. After a week or two, they spin cocoons, where they become pupae and develop into adult fleas within five to fourteen days. Once the adult fleas emerge from their cocoons, they start feeding and reproducing.

Dangers of Fleas Infesting Your Pet:

Fleas can cause tremendous discomfort to your pet. Pets will continuously scratch and bite themselves, leading to skin irritation, hair loss, anemia, and infection. Fleas can also transmit diseases such as cat scratch fever and tapeworm infections to both pets and humans.

Identifying Signs of Fleas in Your Pet:

One of the primary signs that your pet may have fleas is excessive itching, particularly around their neck, hindquarters, and tail. Hair loss and red or inflamed skin are also signs of flea infestation. In severe cases, you may even see fleas jumping on your pet, but often the “flea dirt” (feces) is the best sign. Flea dirt looks like small black specks that can be found in your pet’s fur, and when wet, they turn a reddish-brown color as they contain digested blood.

How Flea Prevention Helps:

Flea prevention is the best way to protect your pet from flea infestation. Preventing them from gaining a foothold is much easier than treating a full-blown infestation. Consistent use of flea medication throughout the year is critical in maintaining your pet’s health and protecting your home from flea infestations.

Why Purchase Flea Prevention Medication from Us, Your Veterinarian:

With so many flea medication products available, it can be challenging to decide which one is best for your pet. However, we, as veterinarians, have the experience and knowledge of the different flea medication products, how they work, and which one is safest for your pet’s specific needs, especially given their health history. Additionally, we only sell products that are manufacturer-guaranteed to ensure quality. By purchasing from us, you can rest assured that you get authentic and properly stored medication for your pet.

As the fall season approaches, it’s essential to protect your pet from flea infestation. Fleas can cause immense discomfort to your pets and transmit dangerous diseases to both them and you. Identifying signs of flea infestation, understanding the flea life cycle, and investing in flea prevention medication is crucial in maintaining your pet’s health and preventing flea infestations. At our veterinary clinic, we only offer safe, effective flea prevention medication and can help you decide which one is best for your furry friend. We invite you to schedule an appointment with us and get ahead of fleas this fall season.

Back to school season is an exciting time for kids, but for pets, it can be the source of anxiety and stress. After a summer filled with playtime, cuddles, and attention, the sudden decrease in activity can have a profound impact on our pets. It’s common for pets to experience separation anxiety when their families head back to work and school, and it’s important for pet owners to recognize the signs and take steps to help their pets adjust. In this blog post, we will discuss some strategies to help your pets ease into a quieter home.

Identifying Signs of Separation Anxiety

Separation anxiety can manifest in many ways, such as excessive barking, digging, chewing, pacing, or inappropriate elimination. Sometimes, the signs are more subtle, and pets can become lethargic, withdrawn, or refuse to eat. If your pet shows signs of separation anxiety, it’s important to recognize the problem and address it promptly.

Why it’s Important not to Scold Your Dog or Cat

Although it’s tempting to scold your pet for may at first appear as “misbehaving”, remember that punishment only worsens anxiety and can cause more stress. Instead, focus on positive reinforcement and reward your pet with treats, toys, or praise for good behavior. Make sure your pet has access to comforting items such as their favorite blanket or toy, and work toward building a strong bond between you and your pet.

Pre-Plan for When School Starts

To help ease the transition, start preparing your pet before school starts. Begin to introduce your new routine by slowly changing your pet’s schedule, so that when your new schedule takes effect the transition will not be as abrupt. Make sure to incorporate a consistent daily routine that includes playtime, walks, and plenty of attention.

Solutions to Help After School Has Begun

Creating Structure for Your Pet

Establishing a regular routine is key when it comes to helping our pets adjust to spending more time alone. Create an environment that is calming and consistent, making sure to give your pet plenty of exercise, playtime, potty breaks, and cuddle sessions throughout the day.

Consider Doggy Daycare

Doggy Daycare can provide socialization and playtime with other dogs, which can be an excellent way to ease anxiety and boredom. If your pet isn’t comfortable in large groups, try a pet sitter who can come to your home to give your pet attention and company.

Increase Mental Stimulation Activities

Boredom is a major contributor to anxiety in pets, so try to incorporate mental stimulation activities into your pet’s daily routine. For example, hide treats around the house, give your pet puzzle feeders, or play games like fetch or tug of war. This can help keep your pet’s mind occupied and reduce feelings of stress and loneliness.

Increase Walking Frequency

Walks provide not only physical exercise but also mental stimulation for pets. If possible, try to take your pet on longer walks before and after work/school to help burn off energy and reduce restlessness. Additionally, walking provides an opportunity for pets to explore their surroundings and expend mental energy. (And, they’ll love spending the extra time with you!)

Make Arrivals and Departures Less Emotional

Since pets pick up on their owners’ emotions, try to make departures and arrivals as low-key as possible. Avoid lengthy goodbyes, and greet your pet calmly when you come home. This can help reduce anxiety and make transitions less stressful.

Book a Visit to See Us

Finally, if your pet is struggling with separation anxiety, please book a visit to see us. Our veterinary team can provide expert advice and recommend appropriate treatment options

Separation anxiety in pets can be a challenging issue to manage, but by recognizing the signs and taking proactive steps, pet owners can help their pet family members adjust to a quieter home. Remember, your pet relies on you for comfort and security, so be patient and offer plenty of love and support. If you’re concerned about your pet’s behavior, book a visit to see us, and we’ll be happy to help.

As pet owners, it’s crucial to prioritize the mental and physical health of our beloved companions. One of the most common causes of stress in pets is summer thunderstorms and fireworks. During these events, pets exhibit various behaviors that indicate fear and stress. When experiencing a thunderstorm or fireworks, pets may pant excessively, bark or howl, tremble, hide, or even become destructive. These behaviors can be alarming and cause stress to both the pet and the owner. So what can you do to help alleviate your furry friend’s stress during these situations?

Provide a Comfortable and Safe Space

It’s essential to create a comfortable and safe space for your pet during a thunderstorm or fireworks. Keep your pet indoors and away from windows. Consider creating a cozy space with their favorite toy, blanket, or bed in an interior room, preferably where they feel comfortable.

Play Calming Music

Just like humans, animals can be sensitive to noise. Providing calming music can help create a quiet, peaceful environment for your pet to help them relax, in addition to reducing the sounds of the booms outside.

Consider Products That Help Calm Pets

Various products are available in the market that can help calm pets during thunderstorms or fireworks. There are specific articles of clothing, such as calming wraps and shirts, which apply gentle pressure and offer a calming effect during stressful situations. Calming sprays, diffusers, and treats can help reduce anxiety and stress in pets. Make sure that the products you are using are pet-safe and specifically created for pets. Our veterinary team can provide guidance on items that may help in your pet’s specific situation.

Anticipate the “Booms”

Once you have a calm area set up for your pet, don’t forget to take time to prepare your pet in advance for the upcoming “booms”. Pay close attention to weather alerts and relocate your pet to their calming space BEFORE the noise begins. Similarly, be aware of local events which may be displaying fireworks over the next several weeks.

By making time spent in this calming space a positive one, rather than a stressful one, you can help your pet cope better in the future. Provide a special treat or toy when they’re there to make it an enjoyable experience.

Seek Help from a Veterinarian

In severe cases, pet parents may need to seek help from a veterinarian to reduce their pet’s stress levels. Vets can prescribe medications that help alleviate anxiety and provide advice on other methods that can help comfort and soothe pets during storms or fireworks.

Being proactive can go a long way in helping your pet feel safe and comfortable during the summer months. Keeping a close eye on their behaviors, providing a safe space, playing calming music, trying products that help calm pets, and seeking help if needed are all important steps to ensure your pet’s well-being.

Make sure to prioritize your pet’s mental health and well-being by taking the necessary steps to alleviate their stress during thunderstorms and fireworks. If you notice any signs of severe stress, don’t hesitate to seek help from our veterinary team.

Have you thrown yourself into your spring cleaning? If you’re like most people, you’re airing out the house, getting some plants in the ground, and enjoying the beauty of this season with your pet by your side. In fact, this is one of the best times of year to be a pet–the birds and squirrels are active and back to their favorite hobby of entertaining our dogs and cats, and the weather is perfect for letting some fresh air in for your cat or taking your dog on a long walk. If you’ve knocked out your spring cleaning and are ready to move on to some pet care musts, we’re here to help! We put together a list to help you plan your springtime pet care.

Use this list to identify tasks then check them off, so you have more free time to spend with your pet.

#1 Refill Your Pet’s Parasite Preventatives

Parasites like fleas, ticks, and heartworms reappear in full force this time of year. While they never completely go dormant, there is a surge of cases that come through our clinic once spring arrives.

While fleas and ticks may seem like only a nuisance, these pesky pests carry potentially fatal diseases. Heartworms can also be deadly and wreak havoc on a pet’s cardiovascular system. So, be sure to refill your pet’s parasiticides before they take full advantage of the spectacular weather with some outdoor adventures.

“Why does my pet need an appointment for a new parasite prevention prescription?”

When we prescribe your pet medications, we need to verify that they’re healthy enough to handle any side effects. Additionally, heartworm medication only kills the larvae. This means if your dog is infected with heartworms, a new prescription will only control any new larvae that hatch while the adult heartworms rob your pet of their health. Therefore, we need to verify that your pet is free and clear of these parasites before prescribing any medications.

#2 Get a Fresh Start to the Season with Grooming

Spring is a time for renewal and fresh starts… which makes it a great time to have your pet groomed. As your dog or cat sheds their winter coat, a bath, some brushing, and nail care help them to feel their best.

Grooming your pet in spring also creates the opportunity for a quick paw and nail check to ensure they’re walk-ready. Walking on overly long nails can put a strain on a pet’s joints and cause a great deal of discomfort–and with fewer walks in winter, you may find your pet’s nails aren’t getting worn down as well as they need.

#3 Spring Clean Your Pet’s Belongings

As parasites re-emerge along with pollen, mold, and dander, it’s important to wash and clean your pet’s belongings. Not only will this renew their scent as you freshen up the rest of your house, but it will minimize your pet’s exposure to these irritants.

Be sure to wash your pet’s:

• Bed and bedding
• Collar and leash
• Food and water bowls
• Car seat covers
• Toys
• Food mats
• Food storage containers
• Rugs and carpet

#4 Check for Signs of Allergies

Everything is in bloom… and so are those spring allergies. If you’ve noticed your pet experiencing signs of allergies, be sure to make an appointment to help them find some relief from their discomfort.

The most common signs of spring allergies in pets include:

• Itchy paws
• Itchy skin
• Itchy ears and/or head shaking
• Rashes or bumps
• Watery eyes
• A runny nose
• Ear discharge
• Sneezing
• Excessive itchy and rubbing
• Greasy skin and fur
• Scabs
• Hair loss
• Odor

#5 Survey Your Home & Yard for Spring Hazards

Finally, you want to safeguard your pet from any spring hazards that could do them harm. This includes possible toxins and tools that may present a physical danger. A little preparation, organization, and due diligence in this area could save your pet’s life.

Be sure to:

• Put away any gardening equipment after use
• Store herbicides and pesticides out of reach
• Place all household cleaners in a pet-safe location
• Close windows and doors before you leave
• Survey your home and yard for toxic plants
• Check your fence line for any weak spots and repair them

Start Spring on the Right Paw

Take advantage of the sunshine and warm weather while checking these items off your to-do list. We’re here for you if you need to refill your pet’s prescription and to help you better understand your pet’s needs. We hope that your spring is filled with bright memories with your pet. Happy spring from your veterinary team!

According to the Pet Poison Helpline, every year, thousands of pets are affected by accidental poisoning. To raise awareness about common poisons and how we can prevent our pets from being exposed to them, Pet Poison Prevention Month is observed in March.

Here are some common pet toxicities that every pet owner should be aware of:

Human Medications:

Over-the-counter and prescription medications can be extremely dangerous for pets if ingested in large amounts or over a prolonged period. Common examples include painkillers, antidepressants, and cold and flu medications.

Toxic Plants:

Certain plants such as lilies (for cats) and azaleas can cause serious harm if consumed by pets.

Household Cleaning Supplies:

Many cleaning products contain chemicals that can be harmful or fatal if ingested by pets. Even if pets don’t ingest a substance, they can still be harmed if a corrosive or caustic substance touches their skin.

Common Human Foods:

Grapes, onions, garlic and alcohol can all be toxic to pets if ingested. Chocolate, sugar-free gums, and mints may also be hazardous.

Rodenticides:

Rat, mouse and mole poisons can inadvertently be eaten by pets. To prevent this, use bait stations that are not accessible or toxic to your pet. Even better, opt for pet-safe options for rodent control.

Preventing Accidental Poisonings:

The best way to prevent accidental poisonings is to keep all potential toxins away from your pet’s reach and never leave them unattended. This may feel daunting. After all, with so many of the items we consume or have access to every day, how can we make sure our pets don’t get a hold of anything?

The key is to put safety protocols in place like keeping household cleaners and medications locked away, avoiding giving your pet human food or snacks and double-checking that any plants you bring into the house are safe for pet consumption. Take a look through your home, through your pet’s eyes, and take note of what you may see if you were at their level.

Preventing pet poisoning starts with being proactive about keeping toxins out of reach. Here are some tips on how you can protect your pets:

• Store all medications in a secure location where your pet cannot access them.
• Research which plants are toxic for your particular type of pet and avoid bringing them into your home.
• Keep snacks and treats only to items specifically made for animal consumption. Be mindful of the garbage and compost areas where toxic food items may be present.
• Keep all cleaning supplies locked up or stored in a high cabinet.
• If you must use rodenticides, make sure they are placed in areas that your pet cannot access.

If you suspect that your pet has been poisoned, time is critical. Contact us immediately to receive the best advice and prompt treatment. Let’s work together to raise awareness about pet poison prevention and help keep our pets safe.

Pet Poison Prevention Month serves as an important reminder for all pet owners to take steps toward keeping their animal companions safe from potential hazards within their homes or outdoors. By being vigilant and taking preventative measures, we can help ensure our beloved companions live long and healthy lives free from harm caused by accidental poisonings.

February is Pet Dental Health Month and it’s a great time for pet owners to brush up on their pet care knowledge. Just like humans, pets need good dental healthcare. That’s why it’s important to understand the basics of taking care of your pet’s teeth and gums all year round. Let’s dive into the significance of proper pet dental health and how you can keep your pets healthy and happy.

Why Is Pet Dental Health Essential?

Your pet’s teeth are an essential part of their overall health and well-being. Poor dental hygiene can lead to tooth decay, infections, and other serious medical conditions such as heart disease and kidney damage. Dental decay and infections can also affect your pet’s appetite, energy levels, and overall quality of life. Therefore, taking care of your pet’s dental health should be a priority all year long, not just during Pet Dental Health Month in February.

Can you imagine eating dinner if your teeth ached or you had excruciating mouth pain? Our pets are unable to vocalize to us when they are feeling uncomfortable, so it’s crucial for us to take the necessary steps to ensure their teeth and gums are healthy.

How To Take Care Of Your Pet’s Teeth & Gums

The first step in taking care of your pet’s dental health is regular brushing with pet-specific toothpaste (never use human toothpaste). This will help remove plaque and tartar buildup from their teeth which can cause decay or gum disease. You can also ask us about supplementing brushing with oral rinses or wipes designed specifically for pets. These can help reduce bad breath and discoloration on their teeth. Finally, regular checkups at the vet are key for spotting any potential problems before they become too severe.

In addition to regular brushing, there are some other ways you can keep your pet’s mouth healthy. Providing them with chew toys that help scrub away some plaque buildup or giving them dental treats that are formulated to reduce tartar build-up while freshening breath naturally may be beneficial. There are a variety of options available, so you should look for ones that work best for your pet based on size, age, breed, and lifestyle. Our veterinary team can point you in the right direction for the products we recommend.

For the best dental health, getting your pet’s teeth professionally cleaned with us will help identify issues below the gumline. We can then remove or treat teeth that may present additional health issues to your pet.

Signs of Oral Problems in Pets

It can be tough for owners to tell if their pets have any kind of oral problems since they can’t communicate when they’re feeling pain or discomfort in the same way that humans do. As responsible pet owners, we need to pay close attention to any changes in our pets’ behavior such as decreased appetite or difficulty chewing food—these may be signs of an underlying dental issue that needs immediate attention. Other signs include bad breath (which is common with periodontal disease) or drooling or bleeding from the mouth (which could indicate an abscess). Contact us immediately if you notice any of these signs in your pet.

Taking care of your pet’s dental health is essential for keeping them healthy and happy throughout the year – not just during Pet Dental Health Month in February! With these tips in mind, you’ll have one less thing to worry about when it comes to keeping your furry family member happy and healthy!

As we move into the New Year, it is a perfect time for resolutions and looking at the year as a whole. Just as for ourselves, and the goals we may set, the New Year provides a moment to pause and consider how we can plan for our pet’s health and wellness for the next twelve months. Here are some steps you can take to help your pet have a healthy year ahead!

Wellness Checks

During wellness visits, we will check for any potential health issues, conduct a parasite screening, perform a physical exam, and discuss any concerns you may have about your pet’s health. Not only do these exams help to identify illness, but they establish a baseline of health to compare with future examinations.

These visits can also be a good time to ask us about behavioral concerns that you may be seeing in your pet. We can assist with getting to the root cause behind those behaviors, and help develop a plan to resolve them.

Dental Exams & Professional Dental Cleaning

Dental care is essential for all pets, just as it is for people. Poor dental health can lead to a host of oral diseases including periodontal disease and tooth decay, and eventually even cause damage to pets’ internal organs, such as their kidneys and heart. Regular brushing at home and professional dental cleaning from your veterinary team can help prevent these problems from developing.

Vaccinations

Vaccines are an important part of keeping our pets healthy and safe from contagious diseases such as rabies, distemper, parvovirus, and many others. Vaccines are tailored to each pet based on age, breed, lifestyle factors such as indoor/outdoor status, travel plans, etc., and local ordinances which may require specific vaccinations. The best way to determine which vaccines are best for your pet is to consult with us and we will be able to provide personalized advice based on your pet’s unique needs.

Parasite Prevention

Parasites such as fleas and ticks can cause serious harm to both humans and pets. Fortunately, there are several methods available for preventing parasites including topical treatments, chewable tablets, or even injections. It’s important to consult with us before using any parasite prevention products as some may not be appropriate for use in all cases (e.g., puppies under 8 weeks old).

Physical Activity & Mental Enrichment

Exercise helps keep our pets healthy both physically and mentally! Activity levels vary greatly between species and breeds so pet owners need to consider what activity level is appropriate for each dog or cat. In addition to physical activity such as walking or playing fetch/chase games with toys, mental enrichment activities like hide-and-seek with treats or food puzzles can help engage their minds in positive ways, too.

If you have a senior pet or a pet with health conditions, ask us about specific physical and mental activities that may be appropriate for them.

Nutrition

All of us have likely heard the adage, “You are what you eat”, and this applies to our pets, as well. A diet rich in nutrients is essential to overall health. We can help you choose the right food for your pet’s specific life stage, activity level, and health status. Pet owners are targeted by constant marketing for various diets and brands of food on TV, social media, and the Internet. We are here to help you sort through the options and make informed decisions about your pet’s specific nutritional needs.

Spending Time Together

Last, but certainly not least; spending quality time together with our pets should always be part of our routine. Whether it’s taking them out on walks around the neighborhood or just sitting down together while they curl up beside us; actively engaging with our pets helps create a bond that strengthens over time – something invaluable and a gift to both.

Happy New Year! Thank you for choosing our veterinary team to be here with you each step of the way to help your pet have a happy and healthy start to 2023!

The holidays are a time for family, friends, and fun. But for pet owners, they can also be a time to spoil their furry friends! There are so many ways to make your pet’s holiday season special. In this blog post, we will discuss five of the best ways to spoil your pet this year. From gift ideas to treats to activities, we have you covered!

Get your pet a new toy or interactive game

Whether it’s a squeaky toy, catnip-filled mouse, or puzzle game, your pet will love spending time with their new toy. Not only are toys great for playtime, but they can also help keep your pet mentally stimulated and engaged. Look for toys that are specifically designed for your pet’s age and size to ensure the best experience.

Buy them a special treat or food

Pets love treats! You can buy them a special treat or food to make their holiday season extra special. Ask one of our veterinary team members about which treat or food may be beneficial for your pet’s health needs and lifestyle.

Invest in a food puzzle

Investing in food puzzles for your pet can be a great way to add some extra stimulation and entertainment. Not only will it provide your pet with mental and physical stimulation, but it will also help keep them from getting bored and engaging in unwanted behaviors. Food puzzles come in a variety of shapes, sizes, and types that all work to keep your pet engaged, active, and entertained.

Plus, if you have a pet that eats too quickly or is overweight, food puzzles can help them to eat more slowly.

Schedule their veterinary visit exam and dental for 2023

Good pet care is important year-round, and this can be a fantastic time to get your pet’s annual veterinary checkup and dental scheduled for the upcoming year. You’ll be kicking off the new year on the right “paw”, and have one less thing to worry about in 2023!

Give your pet the gift of time

One of the best gifts you can give your pet this holiday season is spending quality time with them. Take them for an extra walk, play fetch, or just sit together and indulge in a relaxing movie together. This special bonding time will be not only fun for your pet, but also beneficial to their mental health and well-being. And, with the stress the holidays can bring, you’ll benefit, too!

These are just a few of the many ways to spoil your pet this holiday season. Get creative and come up with your own fun traditions or activities to make this holiday season the best ever. Wishing you and your pets a joyous and safe holiday season!

One of the most rewarding things about being a pet owner is knowing that you’ve given an animal a loving home for the rest of their days. And what could be more rewarding than giving a senior pet a “new leash on life”? Senior pets are often passed over in favor of puppies and kittens, but they have so much to offer! Here are five reasons to consider adopting a senior pet today:

1. Senior pets are often already housebroken

When you adopt a senior pet, you’re getting an animal that is already accustomed to living in a home environment. This means they’re likely already housetrained and have experience interacting with people and other animals. This can be a big relief if you’re worried about dealing with accidents or bad habits, and it’s one less thing you’ll have to worry about as you settle your new pet into their new home.

Of course, depending on the pet, if they’ve not had training, you’ll still need to be prepared to do some work with them on things like learning to walk on a leash or getting used to a new routine. But overall, senior pets can be wonderful to transition into your home.

2. Senior pets are often calmer and less destructive

Puppies and kittens are notoriously active, which can lead to some destruction around the house as they explore their surroundings. Senior pets are often much calmer, and this can mean fewer destroyed shoes and shredded couch cushions. If you’re looking for a low-key animal companion, a senior pet may be the perfect fit for you.

3. Senior pets are more likely to be spayed or neutered

Since senior pets have likely already been spayed or neutered, this is one less thing you’ll need to worry about. This also means that they’re less likely to mark their territory or try to escape in search of a mate, which can be a common issue with younger animals.

Being spayed or neutered also helps reduce the risk of certain cancers.

4. Senior pets are often observed in their foster homes or shelters, so you have insights into their behaviors and mannerisms

When you adopt a senior pet, chances are the staff at the shelter or rescue have had plenty of time to get to know their personality and quirks. This means they can give you a pretty good idea of what to expect in terms of energy level, temperament, and behavior. This can be helpful in deciding whether or not a particular pet is a good fit for your home and lifestyle.

They also have the opportunity to observe the pet with other pets and people, and this can give you some valuable insights into how your new pet will do in those situations. For example, if you have other pets at home, the shelter staff can tell you if the senior pet you’re interested in does well with other animals. They can let you know how the pet relates to people, too, which can be helpful in understanding how the pet may react within your family dynamic.

5. Adopting a senior pet means you’re giving them a second chance at a happy life

Senior pets often have a harder time getting adopted than younger animals, and as a result, they can end up spending their later years in shelters or rescue organizations, often due to no fault of their own. When you adopt a senior pet, you’re not only giving them a loving home, but you’re also giving them a second chance at happiness.

When you adopt a senior pet, you’re giving them a second chance at a happy life – which is something they’ll be forever grateful for.

Bonus tip!

6. Senior pets often have a lower adoption fee

One of the great things about adopting a senior pet is that they may have a lower adoption fee than younger animals. This can be a big benefit if you’re on a budget or are looking to adopt multiple pets. Lower adoption fees also mean that more people are able to adopt, which is great for senior pets in need of homes.

So, if you’re looking to add a new companion to your family, consider adopting a senior pet. They make great companions and come with a host of benefits.

If you do adopt a senior pet, we can’t wait to meet them! Make an appointment today so we can give them a check-up and help them get settled into their new home and continue on a journey of wellness.

Just like humans, our pets can suffer from obesity. As pet owners, it’s our responsibility to make sure our animal companions stay at a healthy weight. Not only does obesity limit your pet’s mobility, but it can also lead to a host of health problems and make your pet more susceptible to disease. Here’s what you need to know about pet obesity and how to prevent it.

What Causes Pet Obesity?

There are a number of factors that can contribute to pet obesity, including genetics, age, activity level, and diet. For example, some breeds of dogs are more prone to weight gain than others. Some older pets may be more likely to be obese because they tend to be less active and have a slower metabolism. Additionally, pets who don’t get enough exercise are also at risk for weight gain. Finally, an unhealthy diet is one of the main culprits behind pet obesity. Just like with people, if pets eat too much food and consume too many calories, they will gain weight.

The Dangers of Pet Obesity

Pet obesity can lead to a host of health problems in both dogs and cats, including joint pain, orthopedic issues, respiratory difficulties, gastrointestinal problems, diabetes, high blood pressure, and cancer. One of the best ways to prevent these problems is by keeping your pet at a healthy weight.

Tips for Preventing Pet Obesity

The best way to prevent pet obesity is by feeding your pet a healthy, quality diet and making sure they get enough exercise. When it comes to diet, talk to us about how much food your pet needs each day and what type of food is best for their specific breed and health condition.

When it comes to exercise, take your dog for a walk or run every day, or play fetch with them in the backyard. If you have an indoor cat, invest in some toys that encourage them to move around and stay active. If you have questions about the right amount and type of exercise for your pet, please schedule an appointment with us.

Pet obesity is a serious problem that can lead to numerous health complications down the road. As a responsible pet owner, it’s important to do everything you can to prevent your furry friend from becoming overweight or obese. The good news is that there are plenty of things you can do to help keep your pet at a healthy weight throughout their life. We’re here to help each step of the way!