How to Calm a Dog During Thunderstorms: Treating Storm Anxiety in Dogs
Whether we as owners like it or not, thunderstorms can truly be terrifying for dogs. The loud echoes of thunder, sporadic flashes of lightning, and variable shifts in barometric pressure can be enough to send any anxious dog into a state of panic.
What Every Owner Should Know About Giardia in Dogs
If your dog has ever had a sudden bout of diarrhea after a trip to the park or a swim in your local lake, Giardia may be something your veterinarian brings up during your vet visit. Despite being tiny and invisible to the naked eye, this protozoan parasite is actually one of the most common causes of intestinal upset in dogs.
OFA Testing & Certification for Dogs: How It Leads to Healthier Dogs and Better Breeding
Many of today’s pet owners have something in common: wanting their pets to live the best and healthiest lives possible. As veterinary medicine has advanced, veterinarians and owners have gained access to more information and data that sheds light on the best ways to care for individual pets and tailor treatments and preventive care to both their breed and genetic makeup.
Protecting Your Pup: What You Need to Know About Canine Influenza Virus (CIV)
If you’re a dog parent, you’ve probably heard of the common “kennel cough,” but did you know that dogs can also catch a type of influenza? Just like in people, canine influenza virus (CIV) is a highly contagious respiratory virus that spreads easily in places where dogs congregate, like parks, doggie daycare, and grooming facilities. Understanding what CIV is, how it spreads, and how to keep your dog safe can help you make the best choices for your pup's health.
Can My Dog Eat That? A Veterinarian's Take on the Internet's Most Asked Foods for Dogs
As a dog owner, it's natural to wonder about the safety of sharing your favorite foods with your furry friend. The internet is full of questions about what dogs can and cannot eat. To help clear up the confusion, we've compiled a list of the top foods people frequently ask about and whether they are safe for your dog.
Maximizing Canine Health: The Importance of Lab Work Through Your Dog's Life
From the playful puppy years to the golden senior moments, dogs, like us, go through various life stages, each with its unique health needs and challenges. As a veterinarian, I tell my clients that we have to look at lab work as a window into the intricate workings of their dog's health, offering insights that can guide preventative care, early detection of diseases, and tailored treatment strategies.
Become a Dog Park Pro: Mastering Dog Park Etiquette for a Fun and Safe Outing
The sun is shining, there’s not a cloud in the sky, there’s a cool breeze, and you and your dog are just itching for some fun in the sun together – it sounds like the perfect time to head out to the dog park. Afterall, there's no better place for pups to play and socialize! But before you unclip that leash and let your dog run free, there are a few crucial things to keep in mind to keep you, your dog, and everyone else at the dog park safe and happy.
What Is Leptospirosis And How It Can Affect Your Dog
What Is Leptospirosis Leptospirosis is a disease that most dog owners have either never heard of or it sounds familiar, but they’re not really sure what it is. Leptospirosis is a bacterial organism that can cause liver and kidney failure in dogs and can be contracted by humans. Leptospira is most commonly found in wet environments and is commonly shed in the urine of wildlife. Your dog can be infected with leptospires either directly through infected tissue (i.e.
How To Trim Your Dog's Nails
Caring for a dog's nails is often overlooked until a scratch during playtime reminds you they're overdue for trimming. Regular nail trimming is important, as poor nail maintenance can lead to cracking, splitting, or breakage. As explained by the American Kennel Club, any of these scenarios could mean discomfort for your dog.