We’ve added Possible Health Issues to each breed of dog and cat to make you aware of the susceptibility that some breeds have concerning health problems, whether prone to them or genetic. Even if some health problems are genetic, it does not mean that they will develop in your pet. But it is important to […]
Pet Health
Food Allergies in Pets
Only about 10% of pet allergies are food related. Sometimes what is considered a food allergy is actually food intolerance. A food allergy occurs when the immune system believes an ingredient is harmful and sends antibodies to fight the invader. Food intolerance is when the digestive system cannot digest a certain ingredient or ingredients. Some […]
Should Your Pet Undergo Chemotherapy
As pet parents, we are sometimes asked to make life-altering decisions for our furpals. These days, cancer is affecting more and more of our pets. Fortunately there are a variety of treatments available to provide our pets with longer, quality lives. Most types of cancer can metastasize to other parts of the body from the […]
Sterilization-Alternative to Spay/Neuter
Spay surgery involves removing the female’s uterus and ovaries and Neuter surgery removes the male’s testicles. Recently there has been more convincing evidence that early spay/neuter creates health problems. Allowing the animal to develop naturally decreases the probability of ill health. Spay/neuter is a controversial subject that has many aspects and opinions. There are different […]
Dog’s Blood Saves Cat
A cat in New Zealand was suspected of eating rat poison. The owner rushed the cat to the vet’s office, but it was too late in the day to match and obtain cat’s blood. Dog’s blood was available at the time and was used to transfuse the cat and save its life. Cats do not […]
Vital Signs in Dogs and Cats
It’s very important for pet people to know the normal vital signs of their pets. In case of illness or emergency, the more information you have, the better able your veterinarian will be to treat your pet. Dogs The normal heart rate for dogs is between 70-160 beat per minute. Respiration for dogs is 10-30 […]
Drug Reactions and Interactions in Pets
Everyone can react differently to certain prescribed drugs and the same is true for our pets. Pharmaceutical companies are required to list the side effects of each drug on a slip inserted into the medicine’s container. If the list is not available, your veterinarian can tell you of potential risks to your pet from any […]
Recognizing Shock in Pets
Shock is a life-threatening condition in animals. It requires immediate veterinary treatment. Shock can be caused by sudden illness, dehydration, accidents, bites, burns, poisoning. Early signs are sometimes difficult to see. One of the first symptoms of shock is an elevated heart rate. Normal heart rates are: Kittens – 180-220 beats per minute; Cats – […]
Can Pets Share Poison Ivy with Humans
Poison Ivy, Poison Oak and Poison Sumac are all related and found in many areas. The allergen in these plants is called urushiol, an oil substance. While most pets don’t appear to be affected by the oil – perhaps partly because their fur helps to protect their skin – it can rub onto their coats. […]
Pets and Snakebites
Most snakes will try to avoid contact, but pets can be curious and persistent. When they see something so tempting moving, they are bound to poke at it. While we don’t often see snakes in the city, pets can encounter them there as well, sometimes in local parks. Snakes hibernate or are inactive during winter […]