All posts by Erick Medina

General Care

Playing With Senior Pets

Dogs and cats are very playful, which is one reason they’re so much fun. As Fido and Fluffy grow older, they’ll still have those frisky moments, and they’ll enjoy and benefit from unleashing their inner puppy and kitten. However, you’ll need to consider your four-legged pal’s age during playtime. A local Roanoke, VA vet lists some tips for playing with older pets below.

Opt For Mental Stimulation

Senior pets don’t need as much physical activity as young ones do, but they’ll never outgrow the need for mental stimulation. Opt for activities that challenge your furry pal’s mind, such as scavenger hunts, trick training, or puzzle toys.

Make The Area Safe

Always choose a safe area for your four-legged friend to play in. Avoid places with slippery surfaces or steeply-angled hills or ramps. It’s also best to stay away from pools, stairs, and fireplaces.

Choose Appropriate Toys

Older pets sometimes have different playtime preferences than their younger counterparts do. You may want to opt for toys that are brightly colored. If Fido or Fluffy has a hard time seeing or hearing, opt for playthings that light up or make noise. Change these out regularly to keep things interesting.

Don’t Overdo It

Older pets can get tired out quickly. They don’t have the strength or stamina younger animals do. Take care not to let your furry buddy overexert themselves. If you notice any signs of fatigue, call it a day.

Get Professional Advice

Senior pets are quite fragile, and are more prone to injuries, slips, and falls than younger animals. They also shouldn’t be encouraged to do certain things. For instance, an older dog with hip dysplasia shouldn’t be urged to jump or ‘stand’, while a senior kitty shouldn’t be expected to jump high or far. Ask your vet for specific advice on this.

Don’t Underdo It

While you don’t want to push a senior pet too hard, you don’t want to give up on playtime, either. The physical activity and mental stimulation are both great for them! Fido and Fluffy may tap out after just a few minutes, but that’s fine. Even a few minutes a day will be beneficial.

Have Fun

Our animal companions never stop being cute. In fact, many senior pets somehow become extra adorable. Enjoy these sweet and charming moments with your furry friend! The time we have with our pets passes much too quickly. 

Do you have questions about your pet’s health or care? Contact us, your Roanoke, VA pet hospital, today!

Behavior

Halloween With Anxious Pets

Halloween is now the second biggest holiday of the year here in America. Candy, costumes, and horror movies are more popular than ever! The autumn holiday can be rough on our furry pals, though. It’s particularly different for pets that are timid or anxious. A local Roanoke, VA vet offers some advice on helping Fido and Fluffy cope in this article.

Parties

Are you planning on having people over? Pets with anxiety often get very frightened when strangers show up. Costumed trick or treaters can also frighten Fido and Fluffy. Consider setting your fuzzy friend up in a quiet back room with treats, toys, and comfy bedding. Leave a light and radio on to provide stimulation and background noise. Crates and kitty condos may also come in handy, as they provide secure spots for pets to retreat to.

Decorations

Keep your little buddy in mind as you’re decorating. Fido and Fluffy may be quite frightened of that talking skeleton or the singing Frankenstein on the porch! Let dogs sniff any large items and things that move or make noise. Hopefully, he’ll get used to it in time.

Safety

There may be increased traffic over the next few weeks. Nervous pets might get agitated by pedestrians passing by in costume. If you have a yard for your pooch to hang out in, you may need to limit Fido’s outdoor time. Bring him in before dark, and keep him on a sturdy leash during walks. As for Fluffy, keep her safe and sound inside. You’ll also want to consider your furry buddy when decorating. Small or sharp objects, items with strings or cords, candles, and candies are all unsafe for our four-legged companions.

Costumes

It can be cute seeing dogs dressed up in little outfits. Fido makes a super cute Tootsie Roll! However, this isn’t a great option for timid pets. Opt for something smaller, like a bow tie or bandana.

General

There are also some general rules that apply to caring for nervous pets in general. First and foremost? Make sure that Fido and Fluffy have lots of toys. Your furry friend will be calmer after taking their angst out on a small stuffed animal or chasing that laser pointer. Keeping your anxious pet on a steady routine can also be very helpful here. Calming products, such as pheromones, may soothe your nervous pal. In some cases, training and/or medication may help. Ask your vet for specific advice.

Do you have questions about your pet’s health or care? Contact us, your local Roanoke, VA animal hospital, anytime!

Dog Care

Giving Fido Treats

October is National Pet Obesity Awareness Month. Pet obesity rates have skyrocketed in recent years. More than half of our four-legged buddies are overweight. Diet of course plays a large role here. Another factor in Fido’s expanding waistline? His love of snacks. A local Roanoke, VA vet goes over some do’s and don’ts of giving your pup treats below.

Store-Bought Treats

Store-bought treats are fine … as long as you choose wisely. Pick things that are appropriate for Fido’s age and size. We also recommend checking the label. Opt for things that contain healthy, identifiable ingredients, with meat, fish, and/or poultry preferably being listed first and most often on the label. Choose things that were made in North America, as overseas manufacturers may not be obligated to adhere to the same quality standards.

Homemade Snacks

Do you like cooking? If so, you can make your canine pal’s snacks. You’ll find plenty of recipes online. Make sure you’re only using ingredients that are safe for Fido. These include mashed bananas, pureed meat, natural peanut butter, bacon bits, sodium-free broth, cheese, liver powder, plain yogurt, canned meat or chicken, hamburger, ground turkey, and pureed pumpkin. Ask your vet for more information.

Tricks For Treats

One of the best things about our canine companions is the fact that they are so devoted. Fido has literally risked—and sometimes sacrificed—his life to protect or save his humans. You can put that dedication to work for you. Have your canine buddy do a trick for his treats. If your pooch doesn’t know basic commands, like Sit, Stay, or Lay Down, start with these. Otherwise, teach him something cute, like Play Dead, Roll Over, or Shake Paw.

Begging

We really can’t discuss treats without going into Fido’s begging talents. Our canine pals have had a very long time to perfect the sad expression that’s so effective at jerking on our heartstrings … and getting us to dole out yummy tidbits. It’s not easy to resist that furry face and soulful stare, but steel yourself: you aren’t doing Fido any favors by overfeeding him.

Safety

Take care not to give Fido anything that isn’t safe. That includes garlic and onions, chocolate, alcohol, avocado, pitted fruits, caffeine, raw dough or yeast, and anything that contains xylitol and/or a lot of fat, salt, or sugar. Ask your vet for more information.

Please contact us, your local Roanoke, VA animal clinic, for all of your dog’s veterinary care needs. We’re here for you!

Cat Care

5 Ways To Keep Your Kitten Safe

Have you recently adopted a kitten? You’ve just welcomed an adorable, furry, meowing bundle of chaos into your home. Little Fluffy will be a pretty easy keeper once she’s all grown up, but she can be a bit of a handful during that super-cute toddler stage. Read on as a local Roanoke, VA vet lists some things you can do to keep your little buddy safe.

Petproofing

First things first. You’ll need to do some kittyproofing. This is in many ways similar to the childproofing you would do with a human toddler. Remove or secure things like toxic plants, chemicals and medicine, small or sharp objects, and anything ropy or stringy. Plastic bags and ties are also unsafe. Ask your vet for specific advice.

Vigilance

Never underestimate the ability of a kitten to get into trouble. Little Fluffy will want to explore her entire kingdom and everything in it. Because baby cats are so small, they can easily fit into tiny spaces, such as spots under recliners or behind appliances. Keep an eye on your tiny pal’s whereabouts. Check beneath chairs and blankets before sitting down, and be prepared to pluck your little buddy off counters, drapes, and occasionally, your pants.

Keep Kitty Indoors

We can’t overstate how much safer indoor cats are than kitties who are allowed to roam. You’ll have a much easier time keeping your feline buddy indoors if she grows up that way. And while the Great Outdoors can be dangerous for any furball, kittens are particularly at risk, just because they are so small.

Monitor Interactions With Other Pets

If you already have furry friends, you’ll need to keep a very close eye on them, especially at first. More often than not, dogs and cats are patient with kittens. However, there are always exceptions. Keep a close eye on your animal companions, especially as your furry friend is settling in.

Veterinary Care

Cats are in general, pretty hardy, but they are extremely fragile when they are young. Kittens can get sick very quickly. You’ll want to bring your little buddy in for her initial exams, vaccines, and parasite control products. Microchipping and spay/neuter surgery should also be on the agenda within the next few months. Your vet will be able to recommend an appointment schedule. At home, keep an eye out for signs of illness, such as fever, lethargy, vomiting, discharge, diarrhea, and respiratory issues. Contact us immediately if you spot anything out of the ordinary.

Do you have questions about kitten care? Contact us, your local Roanoke, VA animal clinic, today!

Dog Care

Hug Your Hound Day

September 10th is Hug Your Hound Day! Hounds have their own AKC group, which includes popular pups like the Beagle and Basset hounds, as well as lesser-known ones such as the Borzoi and Cirneco dell’Etna. We think they all deserve hugs! (And bacon … and belly rubs.) A Roanoke, VA vet offers some insight into hounds below.

Hound Dog Characteristics

There are over 30 types of hounds. While they vary in size, shape, and color, they do have one thing in common: they were all bred to hunt. The pooches are divided into three groups: Sighthounds, Scenthounds, and Other. Sight hounds, as the name suggests, track their prey visually, while scent hounds, such as the Bloodhound, follow trails. The ‘other’ pups typically use a combination of both.

Cryin All The Time

Elvis didn’t write the classic song Hound Dog. It was penned by Jerry Leiber and Mike Stoller, and originally recorded by Big Mama Thornton in 1952. The King did make the song popular, and even sang it to a Basset hound on The Steve Allen Show in July of 1956. One thing the songwriters got right? The ‘Cryin’ All The Time’ bit. Hound dogs are known for being vocal. Some even have their own unique vocalizations, known as baying.

Hugging Your Hound

If you have a hound, you definitely want to do something extra special for Fido. However, that doesn’t necessarily mean hugin. As it turns out, many dogs don’t really like being hugged. That isn’t because Fido doesn’t enjoy affection: he just prefers belly rubs. Hugs are actually a sign of dominance in doggy language. Your own pup may not mind if you hug him, but you should never hug a strange dog.

Hound Temperaments

Every type of hound is a bit different. However, these guys do have some common characteristics. They’re lovable, active, and energetic, and have a strong inclination to follow their noses or eyes after, well, anything. Scent hounds love sniffing out things, while sighthounds love chasing. A sturdy fence and leash are musts.

History

Hug Your Hound Day was started by Ami Moore, a renowned dog trainer and animal advocate. Moore wanted to honor and celebrate the special bond of friendship we share with our canine companions. She’s also known for her advocacy of using positive reinforcement in training. We can definitely get on board with that one!

Do you have questions about caring for your hound? Contact us, your Roanoke, VA pet hospital, anytime!

 

 

Dog Care

Caring For A Blind Dog

August 23rd is Blind Dog Day. This is a very important topic. Blindness isn’t the most common medical issue we see in our canine buddies, but it isn’t out of the ordinary, either. Roughly 300,000 American pups have impaired vision, according to data from 2010. Fido can still be as loyal, loving, and adorable as any other pooch, even if he can’t see well, though he will need some extra TLC. A local Roanoke, VA vet offers some advice on caring for a blind dog in this article.  

Are Blind Dogs Hard To Care For?

Many pups that can’t see are just as happy and playful as those with perfect peepers. Dogs rely more on their ears and noses than they do their vision to begin with. Fido’s basic needs will be the same as those of any other dog: he’ll want food, walks, toys, belly rubs, bacon, and most of all, love. You may just need to do some things differently. For instance, you may want to get your furry pal a wearable bumper harness, which can keep him from running into things. Ask your vet for care tips.

How Do I Prepare My House For A Blind Dog?

Start with basic petproofing. Remove anything Fido shouldn’t eat or chew on, such as plastic bags, small or sharp objects, and toxic plants. Next, block off potential hazards, like pools, stairs, and fireplaces. Aside from that, it’s going to be about taking small steps to help your canine companion form a mental map of the house. Setting out carpet runners can help quite a bit. You may also want to get a running fountain your furry bff can hear, so he can find his bowls more easily. 

Is It Hard To Live With A Blind Dog?

Many people hesitate to adopt blind dogs, as they assume that Fido will need lots of extra care. However, once any wounds or infections are healed, your pet may not need any more appointments than any other pooch. In many cases, there are just small differences and accommodations to get used to. For instance, if you have children, make sure they understand not to leave bookbags or toys in the middle of the floor. (Ideally, you’d want to get your cat to stop sprawling out in the middle of the room, but that probably isn’t going to happen.) You may even find that caring for your perfectly-imperfect pet makes the bond between you even more special!

Do you suspect your canine friend has vision issues? Contact us, your Roanoke, VA animal clinic, today!

General Health

Skin Problems In Pets

August is Itchy Pet Awareness Month! Feeling itchy is just as miserable for our furry companions as it is for us … perhaps more so, as they have a hard time reaching certain spots, and can’t exactly use a back scratcher. A local Roanoke, VA vet discusses skin problems in this article.

Common Issues

Skin problems can be particularly challenging because there are so many potential causes. Environmental allergies are one of the most common ones. They seem to be on the rise, perhaps due to the chemicals used in not only food, but also in things like shampoos, fibers, and even toys. Fido and Fluffy can also be allergic to things like dust, pollen, mold, leaves and dander. Food allergies are another common cause. Pets can develop food allergies at any point in their lives. While these are generally triggered by a type of protein, such as meat or eggs, things like wheat and corn can also cause reactions. 

Folliculitis, which is an inflammation of the hair follicle, can also be a factor. Another possible cause would be impetigo, a skin condition that can cause lesions. Parasites, such as fleas, ticks, mites, and mites, can also cause skin problems, as can ringworm, which is actually a fungus. Yeast infections are another possible culprit. There’s also a chance that underlying medical issues, such as lupus, could be to blame.

Symptoms

The most obvious sign of itching would be if a pet is scratching themselves. However, there are other red flags. These include sores, rashes, redness, lumps or bumps, bald spots, and hot spots, which are officially known as moist dermatitis. You may also notice a strange odor. Your furry friend may rub up against things, including you, and could be a bit pushy about wanting to be scratched. Itchy pets also often lick or bite themselves persistently.

Treatment

There are treatments that can help soothe your furry buddy. However, you’ll need to pinpoint the source of the itching. A trip to the vet is definitely in order! You may need to have tests done to find the culprit. Once the cause has been identified, you and your vet will be able to discuss specific treatment options, such as medication, as well as any necessary changes in your pet’s diet or care.

Do you have an itchy pet? Contact us, your local Roanoke, VA pet clinic, today!

Dog Care

Camping With Your Dog

Summer is officially upon us! For many people, this time of year means lots of camping trips. Dogs can make great camping buddies. However, they can be prone to mischief. You’ll need to keep a close eye on Fido. A Troutville, VA vet discusses taking your furry pal camping in this article.

Check Pet Policies

Pet policies can vary wildly from state to state, city to city, and even among different campgrounds. Do your research! Keep in mind that even pet-friendly spots may have size or breed restrictions. (Note: most U.S. national parks are dog-friendly, but some only allow Fido in certain spots.) You’ll also need to check leash laws.

Supplies

You’ll need to bring some gear for your canine buddy. Fido will need food, treats, towels, dishes, and a pet-first aid kit. Bring a spare leash and tie-line as well. 

Waste

Remember to  pick up after your four-legged friend! Opt for biodegradable bags: these are a more eco-friendly option.

Vaccines

Fido should be current on vaccines and parasite control. Depending on where you’re going, you may want to add new vaccines, such as Lepto. Ask your vet for more information.

Leashes

It’s important to be aware of the possibility of your pup running into a wild animal. We recommend keeping dogs leashed at all times. If Fido always comes when called, you may be able to offer him some leeway, but it’s best to err on the side of caution here. Don’t let your furry best friend nose around in areas that could be unsafe. Riverbanks, steep cliffs, that patch of foxtail grass … these things all present dangers for a frisky, curious pooch! 

ID Tags

Your canine companion should be microchipped and wearing ID tags. Make sure your information is correct in the chipmaker’s database. (GPS tags are also a good option.) 

Water

Headed to a lake or river? Add a doggy lifejacket to your packing list. Also, be aware of the risks of blue-green algae, particularly in warm, shallow lakes. Check local resources, and stick to swimming spots you know are safe. You’ll need to plan for Fido’s drinking water as well. If you’re roughing it and camping in the woods, boil or treat your canine pal’s water, just as you would your own. 

Do you have questions about your dog’s health or care? Contact us, your Troutville, VA pet clinic, today!

Cat Care

Keeping Kitty Hydrated

July is Pet Hydration Awareness Month! Summer can be a dangerous time for our feline pals. Fluffy has a fur coat on, and she really isn’t equipped to deal with heat. Cats can’t cool themselves down by sweating, as we can, and panting isn’t very helpful for them. One of the most important things you can do for your furry little pal is make sure that she is staying properly hydrated. A local Troutville, VA vet offers some advice on this below.

Water Stations

First things first: keep Fluffy’s bowl filled. You may need more than one bowl, especially if you have a large home, multiple stories, and/or more than one cat. If you let your furry friend go outside—or perhaps want to help out any nearby kitties—keep water outdoors as well.

Automated Waterers

Does your furry buddy spend time home alone? You may want to pick up an automated waterer. Look at reviews and product information before ordering: you’ll want to choose one that’s easy to clean and fill.

Food Choices

One decision everyone owned by a cat has to make is whether to provide their feline overlords kibble or canned food. Canned food does have a higher moisture content, which is a definite plus. Talk to your vet about Fluffy’s diet.

Treats

Another thing you can do is choose treats that have a high moisture content. Sodium-free broth is a good option. You can offer your kitty a chilled bowl of it, or freeze it into ice cubes. You can also combine tuna and tuna juice with ice and frozen fat-free yogurt, or freeze squeezable mousse or treats. Want extra purrs? Order Fluffy some kitty ice cream!

Fountains

Many of our feline friends prefer to drink running water. While there may be a lot about cats we may never figure out, this one makes sense: in the wild, standing water is much more likely to be contaminated by algae and parasites. Consider getting Fluffy a fountain.

Warning Signs

It’s important to know the warning signs to look for. Some of the red flags include lethargy, panting, loss of appetite, dry or discolored gums, and sunken eyes. If you see any of these things, immediately give your furball water and call your vet.

Do you have questions about caring for your beloved pet? Contact us, your Troutville, VA pet hospital, today. We’re here to help!

Dog Care

Beach Safety For Dogs

“Summer means happy times and good sunshine.” At least, that’s what Beach Boy Brian Wilson has to say about it. We really can’t argue. The next few months are perfect for enjoying seasonal activities, like grilling, swimming, and going to the beach. Many of our canine pals also love going to the shore. Just put Fido’s safety first. A local Roanoke, VA vet offers some beach safety tips in this article. 

 

Doggy Bag

 

You’ll need to bring a beach bag for your furry friend. Aside from water, Fido will also need a towel, collapsible dishes, sunscreen, a first aid kit, pet-safe sunscreen, a few treats, and waste baggies. You may also want to get a sand-durable tie and stake.

 

Paw Care 

 

Those furry feet will need some attention. Fido can get burns or blisters very quickly from walking or running on hot surfaces. The danger is increased when his paws are wet, as they’ll be extra delicate. Sharp rocks and shells can also cause paw injuries. Booties are a great option, though of course not all dogs will tolerate them. If your pup doesn’t want to wear footwear, use paw balm to protect his toe beans, and keep him on cooler surfaces, like grass, as much as you can. 

 

Temperature/Timing 

 

One of the biggest hazards of taking Fido to the shore is the risk of him overheating. It’s usually hottest in the middle of the day. Keep your pooch at home if you’re going during that period. Take your furry pal in the morning or evening, when it’s cooler. You may also want to consider getting your canine companion a cooling pad or vest.

 

Overheating

 

Keep a close eye out for signs that your pooch is getting too hot. Heavy panting is the first red flag you’ll probably notice. Other things to watch for include drooling, vomiting, diarrhea, disorientation, restlessness, discolored gums, and dark or decreased urine. If you see any of these things, immediately give Fido water, take him to a cool spot, and contact your vet. 

 

Swimming 

 

Swimming can be a great way for Fido to not just cool off, but also get a good workout. However, wading is a much safer option at beaches. Play it safe, and keep a doggy lifejacket on your four-legged friend.

 

As your Roanoke, VA animal clinic, we are dedicated to offering great care. Contact us anytime!