It is remarkable how well our pets, especially dogs, seem to know us. They show us love, affection and help us reduce our stress even when we don’t know that we’re feeling it. When we speak, they seem to pay attention and understand what we are saying. How can that be when clearly dogs and cats don’t understand or speak English? What is it about us, and them that we can apparently communicate so clearly? Perhaps it’s the fact that we’ve lived with domestic pets for so long (as much as 20,000 years with dogs and 3,000 years with cats). […]
Behavioral Changes
Owning a pet with a chronic illness can present some unique challenges. A chronic illness can last anywhere from three months to the lifetime of the pet. This article will give a basic overview of the most common types of chronic illnesses and their treatment. Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs) Urinary tract infections are common in both cats and dogs. They are caused by a build-up of bacteria in the urethra and bladder. Physical symptoms include blood in the urine, trouble urinating, urine with a very strong smell and incontinence. We often don’t notice what our pet’s urine looks or smells […]
Every year, many dogs and cats become infected with heartworm. More dogs than cats are infected. It is found most commonly in outdoor pets, but indoor pets can also be infected. Heartworm is most prevalent in the mid-western, eastern, and southern parts of the United States, but there have been cases reported in all 50 states. Heartworm is a very dangerous condition with very few, if any, symptoms. By the time the pet begins exhibiting any signs of infection, it is often too late. Fortunately, heartworm is a very preventable condition. What is heartworm? Heartworm is a parasitic worm that […]
Several common diseases and illnesses can affect our pets. Some diseases such as rabies, distemper, parvovirus, bordatella (kennel cough) and heartworm are easily preventable by keeping your pet current on its vaccines. This article will focus on diseases that are not preventable by vaccination and are, for the most part, very treatable. Ear infections Your pet may develop an ear infection for several reasons. Puppies and kittens may get ear mites from their parents. They usually aren’t visible until three or four months of age. Then you may notice something that looks like coffee grounds in the ears. Ear mites […]