Tag Archives: animal hospital Roanoke VA

Dog Care, General Care, General Health

Doggy Playdates

Is your canine buddy an only pet? While many of our clients have two or more pooches, it’s also quite common for people to have just one. Fido can do just fine being an only pup, but he will enjoy and benefit from being able to spend time and interact with other dogs. A Roanoke, VA vet offers some advice on setting up doggy playdates below.

Introductions

You’ll want to set Fido’s first playdate for a spot that is neutral ground, such as a park. This can be a great time to catch up with friends or family. Just don’t get too caught up in your own conversation. You’ll need to keep a close eye on things!

Considerations

Dogs are like people: some immediately click, and are friends for life after just a few minutes. Others? Not so much. Fido’s buddies’ temperaments should be fairly similar to his. And while your furry friend’s pals don’t have to be lookalikes, they should be somewhat close to him in age, size, and temperament. A Great Dane could seriously injure a feisty Chihuahua!

Choosing Fido’s Friends

Dogs really do benefit from hanging out with other pooches. Everybody needs friends! Plus, it’s good for Fido to be around others who speak his language. However, there are a few things to keep in mind. First and foremost, make sure that your canine companion’s playmates are friendly, well-behaved and, ideally, spayed or neutered. Dogs with aggressive or reactive tendencies, such as food guarding, may not be good playmates. It’s also important that your pup’s pals be current on vaccines and parasite control. The last thing you want is for your beloved pet to contract heartworm on his play session!

Activities

If you have a fenced yard, then you can try hosting puppy parties. Invite some friends and their pets over for a potluck or grillout. Provide plenty of safe toys and treats for your furry guests. Just make sure there’s enough of everything to go around. (Tip: weather permitting, things like ball launchers and kiddie pools can also be a big hit.)

Services

There are services and even apps that help you set up playdates for your pet. Doggy daycare may also be an option. Just err on the side of caution. Check reviews, and vet potential matches carefully.

As your Roanoke, VA pet hospital, we’re dedicated to providing great care. Contact us anytime!

Adoptions, Dog Care, General Care

No Pet Store Puppies Day

No Pet Store Puppies Day is July 21st. People are becoming more aware of and opposed to the practice of selling animals that have been bred and kept in poor conditions. One issue that has come to light lately is the puppy mill. These are essentially breeding facilities for dogs, many of which are kept in cruel and inhumane conditions. It’s not uncommon for pet stores to buy puppies from puppy mills. This, sadly, puts profit way ahead of animal welfare. While not all pet stores do this, it’s definitely something for potential pet owners to be aware of. A Troutville, VA vet discusses this issue below.

Doing Your Part

There are some things you can do to help keep puppies out of pet stores. First and foremost? Get your own canine buddy fixed. We know, puppies are adorable, but there’s already far too many sweet dogs out there in need of homes. Spreading the word on social media will help raise awareness. That’s important, too. Finally, if you know of a puppy mill, report it to authorities. You should be able to do so anonymously, which can help ease worries about retaliation.

Exceptions

Not all pet store puppies come from puppy mills. In fact, sometimes pet stores feature puppies from local shelters. This often happens as an event: you may notice the store proclaiming that they’ll have dogs from such-and-such a shelter in-store on a specific date. This type of event is part of the solution, rather than the problem. It can also be a great way to get your new canine pal!

Breeders

There definitely are some wonderful breeders out there. How do you tell the difference? Before purchasing a puppy, do some research, and ask lots of questions. Ask your vet for more information.

Adoptions

Occasionally, you may see news stories about pets being rescued from puppy mills. Many of the dogs are then offered for adoption. If you have the time, space, and budget to give one of these unfortunate pooches a home, then by all means do so. Watching rescued dogs thrive with good care can be a beautiful and rewarding experience. Just set realistic goals. Fido may need training and socialization, and he’ll need time and TLC to blossom. 

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

Dog Care, General Care

Taking Fido to the Park

March 30th is a pretty special day for Man’s Best Friend: it’s Take A Walk In The Park Day! Fido would be more than happy to help you celebrate. Read on for some tips from a local Roanoke, VA vet on taking your canine friend to the park.

Preventative Care

Fido should be microchipped, fixed, and wearing current ID tags. Also, make sure your pooch is up to date on vaccinations and parasite control. Dog parks can be hotbeds for fleas, ticks, and heartworms, which are carried by mosquitoes.

Paperwork

Have copies of your furry pal’s registration and vaccinations with you. This is just a good thing to keep on hand anyway, in case of an emergency. Put an envelope with photocopies in your glove box, and you’ll always have them on you.

Gear

Always bring water along, for both you and Fido. You may also want to keep a bag for your pup in your car. Keep things that may come in handy, such as treats, pet wipes, a spare leash, waste baggies, and collapsible water bowls. It’s also a good idea to keep a pet first-aid kit on you, just in case. Add some tie-lines and food, and you also have a ready-to-go emergency doggy bag!

Choosing Parks

There are many parks to explore around our local area. Get into the spirit of the day, and try out a new one. Or, venture further away than you usually do. A one-tank trip with Fido and some friends or family members (and their dogs) can make for a wonderful afternoon.

Cleanup

Always pick up after your canine companion. As the saying says, leave nothing behind but pawprints and memories!

Timing

Heat shouldn’t be too much of an issue at this time of year, but it is something to keep in mind. In summer, don’t take Fido to the park in the middle of the day when it’s really hot out. Mornings and evenings are cooler.

Buddies

If you take your canine buddy to an off-leash park, check out the dogs that are already there before letting Fido go. Don’t release your four-legged friend if you see any pooches bullying other dogs or acting aggressive.

Please do not hesitate to reach out with any questions or concerns about your dog’s health or care. As your local Roanoke, VA veterinary clinic, we are here to help!

Dog Care, General Care

Fido’s Holiday Wish List

Have you already started your holiday shopping? Or do you tend to wait until the last minute, and rush out to get everything at once? No matter which camp you’re in, don’t forget to pick something up for Fido! A vet clinic Roanoke, VA lists some great gifts for your canine buddy in this article.

Toys

No surprises here! There are now tons of great new dog toys to pick from. Look for things that fit your cute pet’s personality. A mechanical ball launcher is a wonderful choice for a pooch who loves nothing more than chasing tennis balls, while a puzzle toy may be a better gift for a curious senior pup.

Pet Tracker

Does your canine companion bolt for freedom at any chance he gets? Even the most loyal dog often can’t resist the temptation of an open gate. If you have a furry little adventurer on your hands, get him a GPS-equipped tracker that will help you monitor his movements. (We also strongly recommend microchipping.)

Gift Basket

Gift baskets have never gone out of style, and with good reason: they’re a great gift for anyone. The doggy versions typically include snacks, toys, and perhaps a few extras, like a comfy leash or a cute bandana. You can buy premade ones or just create your own.

Subscription Box

Want to keep that cute tail going all year long? Get Fido his own ‘subscription’ box. Your pooch will regularly get boxes of goodies in the mail. Plus, you get to watch him get excited over his mail.

Bed

A new bed is a great gift for any dog. Even if Fido already has one, he’ll appreciate having options.

Fountain

Another good option is to get Fido a doggy water fountain. Some shoot water into the air when your four-legged pal steps on a pad. Needless to say, this is adorable to watch.

Doggy Doorbell

Do you have a fenced yard for your furry friend to run and play in? Fido may appreciate having his own doorbell. These devices ring a bell when your pup steps on a pad. There is of course a learning process, but once your pet has it figured out, he’ll be able to let you know when he wants to go out or come in.

Happy Holidays! Please contact us, your animal hospital Roanoke, VA, anytime. We’re here to help!

Dog Care, General Care

Fido’s Furry Feet

Does your dog know cute paw tricks, like Shake or Gimme Five? These charming tricks will never stop being adorable. Of course, Fido’s paws are crucial to his health and well-being. A local Roanoke, VA vet offers some ‘pawesome’ tips on caring for your furry buddy’s feet in this article. 

Claw

Keeping your dog’s claws clipped is very important! Overgrown claws can easily snag and tear on things. Plus, they’re uncomfortable for Fido to walk on. Your pup may carry his weight differently as a result, which will strain his bones and joints. Many people are (understandably) uneasy about cutting their pets’ nails themselves. You may want to get a clipper with sensors. These will indicate where to cut, so you won’t have to worry about hurting your pet. Your vet can also show you proper techniques. Of course, you can always just call us to schedule a quick nail trim. 

Massage

Dogs use their paws as shock absorbers. Fido’s feet take all the impact from those jumps and happy dances! Treat your canine buddy to a gentle paw massage on occasion. 

Hacks

Does Fido hate giving you his feet? Teach your pooch that he’ll get a yummy snack for letting you handle them. This can have a miraculous effect on your cute pet’s opinion on pawdicures! 

Toe Fur

Those toe fur tufts are cute, but it’s best to clip them. They can gather gunk, like mud and gum, and form mats, which can be quite uncomfortable. 

Inspection

Get into the habit of checking Fido’s feet regularly. This is easy to work into cuddle time! You’ll want to look for things like swelling, cuts, and abrasions. If you spot anything unusual, or notice your four-legged friend licking or biting his paws, contact your vet. 

Surfaces

Your furry pal’s feet are very sensitive. Fido can get painful blisters by running around on hot tar or asphalt. Ice, salt, sand, and chemical de-icing agents can also cause burns and abrasions. Keep your pooch on soft ground as much as possible, especially when it’s hot or cold out.

Paw Pads

Dogs’ paw pads can get dry, cracked, and irritated, just like human skin. Use paw balm or wax to protect and moisturize your canine companion’s paws. Vaseline will also work. 

Please call us, your Roanoke, VA pet clinic, for all of your dog’s veterinary care needs. We’re here to help.

Dog Care, General Care

Taking Your Dog to Work… At Home

June 26th  is Take Your Dog To Work Day. Of course, with more people than ever working from home, many of us are finding that every day is Take Your Dog To Work Day … or perhaps, Take Work To Your Dog Day. Fido can be a great coworker! However, you may need to take a few steps to keep things running smoothly. A Roanoke, VA vet discusses working from home with dogs in this article.

Schedule

Pets tend to thrive when they are on a set schedule. Try to get Fido onto a regular routine while you are working. We also recommend walking and playing with your furry friend before getting started on the day’s work. If possible, try to tire your canine companion out a bit. That way, he’ll sleep through a chunk of your workday. Walking your pup at lunch is also a great way to get outside and enjoy some fresh air and exercise, which will be good for you both.

Doggy Inspiration

Man’s Best Friend can actually be quite an inspiration. After all, Fido already has several jobs, which are all very important! He’s a counselor, philosopher, therapist, cuddle buddy, cheerleader, personal trainer, and, of course, an entertainer. Of course, your pup may also spend a chunk of the day sleeping. While we definitely don’t advise sleeping on the job, it is important to make sure that you are getting enough rest.

Work Station

Dogs are very loyal, and often try to spend as much time with their humans as they can. Fido will probably spend a lot of time at your feet. Put a bed there for him, and perhaps a few toys. If you have a chair on wheels, take care not to roll over your pet!

Breaks

It’s probably safe to say that at some point, Fido will interrupt you, perhaps by bringing you his favorite toy and hoping you’ll play with him. If your schedule allows, indulge these adorable requests! Spending time with your furry buddy is a great stress reliever, and a wonderful way to brighten up your day. Dogs are truly precious, and their tail wags and smooches make any day better. Dole out plenty of ear scritches and belly rubs!

Please contact us, your Roanoke, VA vet clinic, for all of your pet’s veterinary care needs. We’re here to help!

Cat Care, General Care

Creating a Catio

Do you have a screened porch or patio? If so, you’ve got a perfect spot for a catio! Our feline friends are definitely much safer staying indoors, where they are protected from hazards like weather, predators, traffic, and chemicals. However, they do enjoy getting some fresh air and watching butterflies, birds, and squirrels. Why not give Fluffy the best of both worlds? Read on as a Roanoke, VA vet offers some great tips on making your furry buddy a catio.

Plants

Many of our feline pals love to nibble on plants. Just be sure to choose pet-safe options. If you like potted trees, you can get an Areca palm, a Ponytail palm, a rubber tree, or a money tree. Ferns are also safe, and look great. If you have a brown thumb, you may want to get something hardy, like a spider plant or cast iron plant. African violets and hibiscus are good for pops of color. You can also add some herbs, like thyme, rosemary, and basil. (Bonus: you’ll also have fresh ingredients for cooking.) Catnip is also a must, of course. Check the ASPCA website here for a full list of toxic and non-toxic plants.

Furniture

No catio is complete without some kitty furniture. A cat tower is a great option here! Your cute pet will gain a napping spot, a jungle gym, and a nail-care station, as well as a place to sunbathe and spy on local wildlife. You can also get Fluffy some soft beds, scratching posts, or even a kitty fountain. For extra purrs, plant some cat grass in a shallow storage tote or an old litterbox. Once it’s grown in, your feline buddy will have her own little ‘lawn’ to look smug on. Don’t forget to add a few pieces for yourself! You may find that your kitty’s catio is a great spot for reading, chatting on the phone, or drinking coffee.

Toys

Don’t forget to add a few toys for Fluffy! You may want to opt for plastic or rubber playthings, though. Catnip mice and other fuzzy/fluffy toys will soon get dusty and rained on. You can also try a mechanical ‘swimming’ fish, or a remote-controlled mouse. This is also a good spot to keep a laser pointer on hand.

Is your furry friend due for an exam, vaccinations, or parasite control? Contact us, your Roanoke, VA vet clinic, today!

Cat Care, General Care, General Health

Keeping Your Pet Safe This Halloween

In just a few short weeks, Halloween and trick-or-treat night will be upon us. It’s a fun time for the whole family, including your pet. However, there are several hazards to be aware of so that you can keep your furry friend safe! Your Roanoke, VA veterinarian tells you more below.

Chocolate

Remember that chocolate of all types—very common around Halloween and trick-or-treat night, in particular—is toxic for animals. It contains theobromine and caffeine, chemicals that can harm our pets in very small amounts. Don’t let Halloween turn into a real nightmare thanks to symptoms like vomiting, diarrhea, seizures, and worse. Restrict your pet’s access to any and all chocolates!

Candy

Many candies, gums, and even certain baked goods are sweetened with a sugar substitute called xylitol. It’s okay for humans, but it’s very toxic for our animal friends. Make sure your pet stays away from your kids’ trick-or-treat bags, as well as your own bowl of candy to hand out to trick-or-treaters, so that they can’t ingest anything harmful.

Decorations

Common autumn decorations like pumpkins, gourds, and fall corn aren’t necessarily toxic for pets. They can harm your pet nonetheless, though—a pet who eats too much of any foreign substance can get sick, and these items present a choking hazard. Keep a close eye on your pet to make sure they don’t try to chow down on your seasonal decorations.

Costumes

It’s definitely adorable to dress your pet up in their very own Halloween costume. Just make sure your pet is okay with it. Many pets don’t take kindly to wearing clothing, and may become very stressed out if forced to wear a costume. You’ll also want to check Fido or Fluffy’s costume thoroughly to make sure it doesn’t contain small buttons, zippers, or other bits of plastic or metal that could be chewed off, swallowed, or choked on.

Anxiety and Escape

With the constant ringing of the doorbell by hopeful trick-or-treaters, some pets can get very anxious and overly excited. Since the front door will probably be opening frequently, it’s tempting for some pets to dart out into the night! You don’t want to have to search for your lost pet on trick-or-treat night—secure them in another room if necessary, and make sure your pet is properly identified with a microchip, ID tags, or both.

Contact your Roanoke, VA veterinary clinic for more tips.

Behavior, Cat Care

Adorable But Sneaky Ways Your Cat Manipulates You

Did you know that June 24th is Cat World Domination Day? Of course, if you were to ask Fluffy, she may very well insist that every day should be Cat World Domination Day. Actually, many of our feline patients already have their humans wrapped around their paws! Read on as a Roanoke, VA vet lists some ninja-level kitty manipulation tactics.

The Meow

One of the most adorable things about cats is the way they vocalize. Fluffy’s chirps, squeaks, and meows are super cute, and have a way of keeping us smiling. As it turns out, our feline pals may have started meowing specifically so they could boss us around. They don’t meow at each other, at least once they’re fully grown. They usually only ‘talk’ when they want to give their humans orders.

Indecision

Although we recommend that cats live indoors, we do understand that our feline friends do enjoy going outside. And then back inside. And then outside again. Actually, Fluffy seems to really enjoy making her humans get up to open a door for her, even if she has no intention of actually going through said door.

Finicky Felines

Does your kitty sometimes cry to demand her dinner right meow, only to turn that cute little nose up at what you put in her bowl? To be fair, Fluffy does have a reason for being finicky. In the wild, cats always eat their prey fresh, and instinctively avoid anything that smells even slightly off. That said, there certainly are some spoiled furballs out there!

Adorable and Comfortable

Cats spend a rather ridiculous amount of sleeping. They also have a special way of looking almost impossibly cute during their naps. You may feel bad about moving your furry little friend when she’s clearly both extremely comfortable and, for some reason, completely exhausted. This is also why many kitties are able to take over the ‘lion’s share’ of their humans’ beds at night!

Computer Skills

Have you ever noticed that the internet seems to have a rather disproportionate amount of cat memes and videos? Are we slowly being brainwashed by these cuddly little furballs? Is this why Fluffy likes to sleep and walk on our computers and keyboards? We have our suspicions …

Please contact us, your Roanoke, VA vet clinic, for your feline overlord’s veterinary care needs. We’re here to help!

Dog Care, General Care, General Health

5 Dental Health Tips for Dogs

February is National Pet Dental Health Month. Did you know that dental care is one of the most important aspects of your canine companion’s overall health? It’s up to you to keep your dog’s pearly whites in good shape! Learn how below from a Roanoke, VA veterinarian.

Check the Teeth

One of the best ways to maintain your dog’s oral health is to check on the teeth and gums regularly. Sit down with Fido once a week or so, and gently draw back the lips to reveal the teeth and gums. Look for redness, swelling and/or inflammation, cracked or misaligned teeth, bleeding, excessive brown-colored plaque build-up, and anything else that looks unusual. Let your vet know if you find something concerning.

Chew Toys

Provide your dog with plenty of fun chew toys; not only does this entrain your pooch for hours on end, it promotes great dental health! Chew toys give your dog’s teeth and gums a solid workout, and the action of chewing itself helps to scrape away much of the loose plaque on your dog’s outer tooth surfaces.

Brushing Sessions

There’s no better way to keep your dog’s teeth and gums in peak condition in the comfort of your own home than by brushing the teeth on a regular basis. Pick up a canine-formulated toothpaste and a pet toothbrush at your local pet supply store. Before starting to brush, simply massage your dog’s teeth and gums with your finger to acclimate him to the sensation. Now, introduce the paste so he can get used to the smell and taste. With a little patience, you’ll be able to brush the entire mouth, effectively keeping the teeth clean and the breath fresh.

Quality Diet and Fresh Water

You might not have considered your dog’s diet as a great benefit to dental health, but it is just that. When your pooch receives all of the necessary nutrients through his food, the teeth and gums stay healthy! A steady supply of fresh water is also important; it helps to flush out the mouth, removing food particles and other grime, and ultimately keeps your dog’s entire mouth healthy.

Veterinary Cleanings

Of course, there’s no substitute for professional dental cleanings by your local veterinarian. This procedure is the ultimate way to keep your dog’s teeth and gums in tip-top shape!

Is your dog due for a dental cleaning? Call your Roanoke, VA animal hospital.