All posts by Erick Medina

Dog Care, General Care

Black Dog Day

Today, October 1st, is Black Dog Day! Did you know that black dogs have a harder time getting adopted than other pups? Just like black cats, they often suffer from bad PR. This is due to old misconceptions and superstitions associating them with witches and witchcraft. However, they are just as sweet and lovable as any other pooch! If you’re ready to get a new dog, please consider a black one. A Roanoke, VA vet discusses black dogs below.

The Folklore

Black dogs have been associated with many powerful myths. There actually are too many black dog legends to mention here, including the Black Dog ‘s the ferocious Black Shuck dog of Suffolk, in England, a menacing pup who was associated with storms. Black dogs also inspired the classic Hound of the Baskervilles, by Sidney Paget. The phrase ‘black dog’ has also become a euphemism for depression, which probably isn’t helping with the adoption issue.

Benefits of Adopting A Black Dog

Why adopt a black dog? First and foremost, their fur matches any outfit or décor. You may also notice that Fido’s fur looks clean and shiny, even when he is a bit dirty. (Note: This does not mean you should skip your pup’s grooming or baths.) You may also find that there’s something a bit mysterious about black dogs. Of course, the biggest reason to adopt Fido is because he’s a wonderful, loyal friend and companion.

Breeds

There are actually several breeds that can have full or partially black coats. First and foremost, would be the beloved Black Labrador, one of America’s favorite breeds. Others include the Black Russian Terrier, the Cane Corzo, Great Dane, and Bernese Mountain Dog. We think they’re all pretty great!

Celebrating

Do you have a black dog? This is a great time to show Fido some extra love. A special treat and/or a new toy are definitely in order. If you want to go all-out, listen to songs about black dogs, or watch the Patrick Swayze flick Black Dog. There are Black Dog apparel, coffee, and brewing companies, as well as several books about black dogs. You can also snap some photos of your canine companion, and share them on social media. Just be sure to choose a background that contrasts with your pup’s fur.

Is your pup due for an exam? Contact us, your Roanoke, VA animal clinic, today!

General Care, General Health

World Rabies Day

September 28th is World Rabies Day. Rabies is fairly rare now, but it hasn’t gone away. In fact, it may be more dangerous than ever, as many people do not realize how deadly it is. A local Roanoke, VA vet goes over some key information about rabies in this article.

Basics

This deadly disease’s name comes from the Latin word rabies, which means madness. Rabies is a zoonotic disease, which means that it can affect both people and pets. The virus spreads through the bite of infected animals, usually skunks, bats, coyotes, or foxes. After a person has been bitten, there is only a limited time where they can seek treatment. This can be as little as four days, though it can take as much as six years. However slowly or quickly this happens, once symptoms begin to appear, the outcome in nearly 100 percent of cases is, unfortunately, death.

Symptoms

It’s important for pet owners to know the signs of infection. In dogs, some of the signs to watch for include fever, trouble swallowing, restlessness, vomiting, drooling, staggering, and seizures. Your canine pal may also seem hyper reactive to stimuli, such as lights and sounds. Aggression can be a sign. However, contrary to popular belief, that isn’t always the case. Cats may withdraw, or just start acting erratically. Cuddly felines may get grumpy, while grumpy kitties may become affectionate. Difficulty swallowing is also a red flag in both people and pets. Contact your vet immediately if you notice any of these symptoms.

Prevention

Rabies fortunately isn’t very widespread these days. However, there are still about 500 cases of pets contracting it every year. Sadly, there are no known successful treatments for pets. Fortunately, all you have to do to protect your furry pal is keep up with their vaccinations. Be sure to keep your pet’s paperwork handy, just in case anything happens. We also recommend that you refrain from handling wild animals. If you have any risk—no matter how small–of coming into contact with an infected animal, you’ll also need to keep up with your vaccines. Even waking up to find a bat in your room is cause for a call to your doctor.

Is your pet due for a vaccine or exam? Contact us, your local Roanoke, VA animal clinic, today. We are dedicated to offering the best veterinary care around.

 

Cat Care, General Care

Pampering A Senior Cat

It’s Happy, Healthy Cat Month! Kitties are very adorable pets, who somehow manage to become even cuter and more lovable as they age. And, just like people, they benefit from some extra TLC as they grow older. Proper veterinary care is of course a must, but there are also some things you can do at home. Here, a Roanoke, VA vet discusses keeping Fluffy happy, healthy, and safe in her golden years.

Proper Nutrition

Good food is important for cats of all ages. As Fluffy gets older, her nutritional needs will change a bit. She won’t be as active, and/or may benefit from foods and supplements that contain things like fish oil or glucosamine. Ask your vet for specific advice, including tips on serving sizes.

Playtime

Older cats may not be as spry or frisky as kittens, but it’s still good for them to let their inner lions out. Take time to play with Fluffy regularly. Jumping and pouncing are great kitty workouts, while timing those ‘attacks’ offers your furball beneficial mental stimulation.

Beds. Lots And Lots Of Beds

Kitties get progressively sleepier in their golden years. By the time your furry pal is a senior, she’ll be a master napper, capable of snoozing up to 20 hours a day. Set out lots of beds and comfy napping spots for her.

Senior-Friendly Facilities

Make sure that your feline friend’s litterbox and food dishes are in spots that are easy for her to get to. You may want to get her a litterbox made for older cats. These have lower sides, which are a little easier for your kitty to get in and out of.

Beauty Sessions

Fluffy will get stiff and sore as she ages, and she may have a hard time twisting and turning. This will make it hard for her to reach her whole body when grooming herself. Brushing your pet gently will get that dead fur and dander out of her coat, which will keep her more comfortable.

Cuddles

Kitties may get dismayed and confused by the changes they go through with age. Fluffy may become quite cuddly, and she may want more attention and snuggles than she used to. Indulge those cute requests for pets and lap space. Your furry pal’s purrs will never stop making you smile!

As your Roanoke, VA animal shelter, we’re dedicated to offering great care. Call us anytime!

Cat Care, Dog Care, General Care

Check The Chip Day

Today, August 15th, is Check The Chip Day! This is a pretty important topic. If your pet hasn’t been microchipped yet, we strongly urge that you get this done ASAP. A Roanoke, VA vet discusses microchips—and how to check them—below.

Basics

Microchips are very tiny devices that use radio waves to transmit information. Chips do not contain your contact information: instead, each chip has a unique ID number, which can be read with special scanners. Getting your pet microchipped will only take a moment, but it could save your furry friend’s life one day!

Checkups

Microchips do not need any maintenance, and they don’t get upgrades, the way computers do. However, we do recommend having your veterinarian check your pet’s chip during their regular appointments. Occasionally, a chip will move out of place. This is something to monitor, as if your four-legged pal is ever lost and turned in to a clinic or shelter, the chip may not show up on a scan if it’s in the wrong place. While this is rare, there is also a chance that a chip would malfunction.

Records Updates

In addition to making sure that the chip hasn’t moved or malfunctioned, it’s also important for you to keep your records up to date. When you get your pet chipped, you’ll need to fill out your records in the chipmaker’s database. This simple step is crucial! If your furry pal gets lost, and is found and scanned, that microchip will be useless if your records are missing or outdated. You can try using the AAHA Universal Pet Microchip Lookup tool here to check your records. This site works with most of the major chipmakers. Be sure to update your account if you ever move or change contact information.

ID

Chips are great, but they don’t negate the need for collar ID tags. Tags are not only required by law in many places, they are also just the simplest, easiest way for someone to be able to contact you if your furry best buddy shows up in their yard. If you’re concerned about your pet potentially getting stuck on something, get a breakaway collar. These detach under pressure. (Of course, that’s also why a chip is necessary, too.)

Do you want to learn more about microchips? Do you want to get your pet chipped? Contact us, your Roanoke, VA animal clinic, anytime!