Tag Archives: dog health

Dog Care, General Care, General Health

Dog Care Mistakes

Have you just adopted a puppy? Congratulations! We all know that Fido needs good food, proper veterinary care, and a comfy habitat, as well as lots of love. However, good dog care goes a lot further than that. A Roanoke, VA vet lists some key dog care mistakes below.

Improper/Incomplete Training

Fido is a very good boy, but he isn’t born with perfect manners. Dogs need training to understand the ins and outs of being a well-behaved pet. You don’t need to teach your pooch advanced commands, but he should know the basics, such as Sit, Stay, Come, Heel, and Lay Down. Consistency is very important here!

Negative Reinforcement

Dogs are very cute, but they aren’t perfect. Sooner or later, Fido’s going to do something a bit naughty, whether it’s chewing your shoes, getting into the garbage, or chasing the cat across the room. Don’t punish your furry friend for these mishaps. After all, he’s just being a dog! Focus on training and rewarding good behavior instead.

Poor Socialization

Socialization is crucial to your canine buddy’s personality. Dogs that haven’t been socialized are much more likely to be fearful and/or aggressive. This must be done while Fido is still a puppy, ideally before he reaches that three-month mark.

Overfeeding

We know, dogs look super cute when they’re begging for snacks. Don’t be fooled, though: Man’s Best Friend has had thousands of years to perfect that sad-puppy look that is guaranteed to make you feel terribly guilty for not immediately forking over that cheeseburger. Let your Fido’s doctor, not his theatrics, determine his menu.

Letting Fido Roam

Dogs are very loyal, but that doesn’t mean it’s safe to let them run around. Your four-legged friend should always be on a leash anytime he’s not in a fenced area. Better safe than sorry!

Lack Of Research

Ok, we may be cheating a little here, as we can definitely lump all sorts of things into this category. But … that’s kind of the point! Take time to learn about how our canine pals think and act, their exercise and care needs, and the do’s and don’ts of being a good pet owner. That includes breed specific research, and even information on giving Fido toys and treats.

Do you have questions about your dog’s care needs? Contact us, your local Roanoke, VA veterinary clinic, anytime. We’re here to help!

Dog Care, General Care, General Health

Pawesome Ways To Keep Your Dog Healthy This Year

Happy New Year! The start of a new year is a great time for revisiting personal goals and priorities. It’s also a great chance to take a look at your dog’s veterinary care routine. Keeping that cute tail going is a great resolution! A Roanoke, VA vet lists some ways to keep Fido happy and healthy in 2022 below.

Good Food

Most dogs aren’t very picky eaters. Fido is known for eating pretty much anything and everything! However, proper nutrition is very important. Ask your vet for specific recommendations, including portion sizes, feeding schedules, and, of course, treats.

Proper Exercise

Fido needs regular activity to stay healthy. This is also very important for behavioral reasons. If your pooch doesn’t have a way to burn off his excess energy, he’ll probably channel those doggy zoomies into things like digging or chewing.

Petproofing

Make sure your place is safe for your canine pal. Exactly what this entails depends somewhat on your pup’s age and mischief levels. With puppies, you’ll want to keep anything you don’t want little Fido chewing on or playing with out of paws’ reach. For older dogs, this may mean putting gates before staircases and adding carpet runners for better traction. Ask your vet for advice.

Climate Control

Extreme weather can be pretty hard on Man’s Best Friend. When it’s warm out, adjust Fido’s schedule a little bit. Walk and play with him in the mornings, when it isn’t as hot, and make sure he always has access to cool, shady areas. In winter, keep him warm and cozy.

Veterinary Care

We know, Fido would probably rather visit his favorite park than come see us. However, it’s important for him to have proper veterinary care. Regular exams and panels can reveal many medical issues before symptoms appear. That can make a huge difference! Follow your vet’s recommended appointment schedule.

Parasite Control

Fleas, ticks, and worms can not only make Fido uncomfortable, they also carry other dangerous diseases. Stay on top of your furry buddy’s parasite control regimen!

Love

Your canine friend’s mental and emotional health also play large roles in his overall health. Keep that tail going! Spend lots of time with Fido, and pamper him with love, attention, and playtime.

As your Roanoke, VA animal clinic, we want to wish you a wonderful new year. Please con us anytime!

Adoptions, Dog Care, General Care

Adopting a Shelter Dog

October is Adopt a Shelter Dog Month. If you’re ready to bring a new pet into your life, please consider going through a shelter. This is a great way to find Fido! Read on as a local Roanoke, VA vet offers some advice on adopting a shelter dog.

Benefits

There are some truly great reasons to get your canine companion from a shelter. First and foremost, you’ll be saving a life, and giving Fido another chance at happiness. That’s a beautiful thing, and an experience many people find very rewarding. You’ll also be able to choose your pet from a variety of adorable pooches. Another thing to feel great about? You’ll be promoting good animal welfare and helping the shelter provide care for other homeless pets. Last but not least, you may also find that going through a shelter is easy on the wallet, at least in comparison to going through a pet store or breeder.

Finding Fido

Choosing a pet is a huge decision. After all, you’re making a commitment to caring for Fido for the rest of his life. While sometimes you only need to glance at a pup to know you’ve found your new pet, at other times, it can be tough choosing the right dog. Spend some time with your canine pal, and make sure it’s a good fit.

Preparation

Before you bring Fido home, you’ll need to do some shopping. Your list should include bedding, toys, treats, dishes, grooming supplies, waste baggies, leashes, a collar, and a pet first-aid kit. You’ll also want to go through your house, and make sure that everything is safe for your pooch. Remove or secure anything that could be dangerous. This includes things like toxic plants, chemicals, medication, and anything small or sharp. If you have a yard, make sure that the fencing is secure.

Tail Wags

It’s always heartwarming to see how happy and excited dogs get when they realize they’ve been adopted. However, it can take time for them to really realize that they are safe, and that things will be okay. Give Fido time to settle in. Talk to him, play with him, and offer toys and treats, but don’t force attention on him. You’ll be getting tail wags and affectionate smooches in no time!

Do you have questions about adopting a shelter pup? Contact us, your Roanoke, VA vet clinic, today!

Dog Care, General Health, Illness & Disease

Signs of Pain in Dogs

September is Animal Pain Awareness Month. This is one area where it can at times be difficult to read our canine friends. After all, Fido can’t tell you if something hurts! That’s why it’s important to know how to recognize signs of pain in your furry best friend. A local Roanoke, VA vet lists a few common ones in this article.

Limping

When limping is caused by an injury, you may see obvious signs, such as a wound or swelling. However, limping can also be a sign of developing issues, such as arthritis. In the latter case, your pet may at first just limp when he gets up. However, over time, the limp will get worse.

Stiffness

If your canine pal is hurting, he may not be as mobile or flexible as he once was. He might have trouble getting up or down, climbing stairs, or getting in or out of the car.

Reduced Interest In Play

Dogs are very playful when they are puppies, but they do naturally slow down with age. However, if your cute pet has suddenly lost interest in his favorite toys, there could be something wrong.

No Appetite

If we know one thing about our canine buddies, it’s that they have very healthy appetites. If Fido just isn’t interested in his dinner, there may be something going on with him.

Vocalizing

Unusual vocalizations are another red flag. If Fido is whining or whimpering, when he usually just barks, he might not be feeling well.

Lethargy/Listlessness

Being sick can really do a number on your energy levels. This is true for both people and pets. If Fido is suddenly spending most of his time sleeping, he could be sick. You may also notice a drop in activity levels. For instance, your furry friend may lag behind on his walks, instead of lunging for that squirrel.

Licking

Dogs often lick or bite at sore spots. If your four-legged buddy seems to be worrying at a specific area, he may be reacting to pain.

Behavioral Changes

Withdrawal can also be an indication of pain. Fido may also shy away from being touched, especially in areas that are hurting him. He may also act grouchy.

Please reach out if ever we can be of assistance. As your local Roanoke, VA vet clinic, we are dedicated to helping you keep your pet happy and healthy!

Dog Care, General Care, General Health

Hot Weather Care Tips for Your Dog

The dog days of summer are upon us! Remember: your dog is wearing a fur coat that he can’t take off, so it’s up to you to make sure Fido stays safe and cool as summer rolls on. Here are a few tips for doing just that from a Roanoke, VA veterinarian:

Keep Fido Indoors

The first rule of thumb to follow is a simple one: don’t leave your dog outdoors for long periods of time when it’s hot. Dogs are susceptible to dehydration and heatstroke when they remain in the high temperatures and hot sun for long stretches, and this can cause serious health trouble. Try exercising your pooch outside during the cooler morning or evening hours, and let him come indoors and relax in the air conditioning through the middle part of the day.

Provide Fresh Water

It’s important to provide your dog with fresh water to drink all year round, but it’s especially essential in the deep summer months. Your pooch needs plenty of fresh water to stay hydrated and keep the body temperature regulated. Keep Fido’s bowl filled at all times, and consider adding a few ice cubes on extremely hot days for that extra chill.

Keep Up With Preventatives

Summer is prime-time for pests, so it’s important that you keep up with your dog’s preventative medications this time of year. Worms like heartworm, roundworm, hookworm, whipworm, and even tapeworms present a threat during the summer, and into the autumn months. Plus, fleas and ticks are waiting to latch on to your dog and start causing problems. Ask your veterinarian about a worm preventative and a flea-and-tick control medicine for your dog if he isn’t already set up with these medications.

Watch the Asphalt

When you take your dog for walks outdoors, pay special attention to asphalt surfaces like driveways and parking lots. These surfaces can heat up quickly when the summer sun beats down on them all day, and they retain heat. It’s possible for your dog’s sensitive paw pads to get burned if he lingers on asphalt surfaces for too long!

Car Travel Tips

Never leave your dog in a car parked in the sun on a hot summer’s day. The temperature inside can skyrocket to well over 100 degrees Fahrenheit in a matter of minutes! It’s best to keep Fido at home.

For more summer safety tips, contact your Roanoke, VA vet clinic.

Dog Care, General Care, General Health

Barbeque Hazards for Dogs

With summer here, we’re quickly moving into prime grilling season. Barbeques are one of our favorite summer activities, and we suspect that many of our canine patients share our opinions. However, Fido can get into quite a bit of mischief at barbeques, so you’ll want to take some steps to keep him safe. A Roanoke, VA vet discusses barbeque safety for dogs in this article.

Food

Many of our favorite foods are toxic to our canine buddies. Never let Fido have anything that contains garlic, onions, scallions, or chives; chocolate; alcohol; caffeine; grapes, currants, or raisins; mushrooms; or nuts. Meat on the bone is also a no-no, are raw meat, fish, and dough and anything containing xylitol.

Fire

Fires and pets are not a good combination. Keep your furry pal safely away from the grill. You don’t want Fido wrapping his leash around it, or snapping up a sizzling-hot burger that fell to the ground.

Chemicals

Lighter fluid, torch oil, citronella, bug spray, and other chemicals are all unsafe for pets. Keep these things well out of paws’ reach!

Open Gates

Keep an eye on your doors and gates, especially as people are coming and going. You don’t want Fido slipping out!

Heat

Summer can be tough on our canine pals. Make sure Fido has shade and water at all times. If you see him panting, bring him to a cool indoor spot and give him some water.

Parasites

Summer is a prime time for fleas, ticks, mosquitoes, and other bugs. Make sure your furry friend is current on his vaccines and parasite control products.

Trash

Dogs are very opportunistic, and will seize any chance they can to score extra food. Fido definitely is not above going through the trash in hopes of snagging himself some leftovers! This can be dangerous, as the garbage may contain things like bones, skewers, tin foil, toothpicks, and other hazards. Clear the tables and put away leftovers as soon as everyone has finished eating. Use garbage cans with tight lids.

Being Underfoot

Man’s Best Friend likes to stick pretty close to his human pals. Unfortunately, this sometimes leads to Fido getting stepped on, or getting his tail caught in doors. Keep a close eye on your pup!

Please do not hesitate to contact us, your Roanoke, VA vet clinic, if ever we can be of assistance. We’re here to help!

Dog Care, General Care

Choosing the Right Dog Bed

Does your canine pal have his own bed? While Fido may be perfectly happy to snooze on the couch or on your bed, it is good for him to have a spot of his own to curl up in. There are actually quite a few things to consider when picking out a bed for your pup. A Roanoke, VA vet lists discusses buying doggy beds in this article.

Senior Dogs

Many old dogs suffer from arthritis and/or hip dysplasia. If Fido is a senior, getting him a comfy bed is one of the best things you can do for him. We recommend orthopedic beds for older dogs, because of the extra support they offer. Your pooch may also enjoy a heated bed, or a thermal blanket.

Large Dogs

Orthopedic beds are also a good option for large breeds. Another thing you can do is use a child’s mattress. Add a mattress topper if you want to make your pup’s bed extra comfy.

Dogs That Stomp Their Beds Down

Does Fido sometimes turns in circles before lying down? This may be a throwback to the time when dogs were wild, as they often made themselves little nests or dens by stamping down grass or brush. A beanbag may be a good option for your canine buddy.

Pooches That Sprawl Out

Does your furry pal like to stretch out when he sleeps? If Fido is a ‘sprawler,’ a regular doggy bed may be the best choice for him. These beds, which often look like oversized pillows, sometimes do get worn down quickly, so you may want to get two, or add a soft pad beneath it.

Pups That Like Pillows

Does your four-legged buddy like to use something as a pillow? A bolstered bed, which has raised sides, is a great option for Fido!

Small Breeds

Is your pooch a pint-sized pet? Little dogs also often like beds with high sides, as they feel safe and secure in enclosed spaces.

Tips

Shape and size aren’t the only things to consider when purchasing dog beds. You’ll also want to look at the material. Ideally, you want something washable, or at least something with a washable cover. We also recommend opting for beds with nontoxic stuffing.

Please reach out to us, your Roanoke, VA vet clinic, for all of your dog’s veterinary care needs. We are here to help!

Dog Care, General Care, General Health

Allergies in Dogs

Spring is a peak time for allergens, both for people and pets. Just like people, dogs can have allergic reactions to many different substances. Allergies can make your cute pet quite uncomfortable! A local Roanoke, VA vet discusses doggy allergies in this article.

Common Allergens

Man’s Best Friend can be allergic to many of the same things people can. As mentioned above, mold, mildew, plants, and pollen are common ones. Some dogs also react to ingredients in their food or treats. Your canine pal may also be allergic to strong fumes, like cigarette smoke or perfume, or specific types of fiber. Dogs can also be allergic to ingredients in their pet shampoo.

Symptoms

The signs of allergies vary from pup to pup, depending on what the allergen is. Sneezing, snoring, burping, and flatulence can all be indicative of allergies. Allergies can also cause red, runny eyes and stubborn ear infections, and can be the cause of many skin problems. Vomiting and diarrhea are more possible symptoms. Though fortunately this is rare, allergies can cause Fido to have more serious reactions, such as fainting, seizures, or swelling. In extreme cases, they can cause comas or even death.

Treatment

There are some treatment options available for allergies. These may range from medication to specific diets to home care regimens. Before treatment options can be discussed, your vet will need to run some tests to find out exactly what is disagreeing with your pooch. If food allergies are suspected, this may mean a dietary change. Fido may need to be put on a very basic, bland diet for a while. Items will be reintroduced slowly, to see what causes him to react. Ask your vet for more information.

Home Care Tips

There are a few simple things you can do to help keep your canine buddy comfortable. Vacuum and dust regularly, and change your air filters out frequently. Keeping an eye on pollen counts can also be helpful. Limit your pet’s outdoor time when they are high. You may also want to get some doggy wipes, and wipe down Fido’s paws and belly when you bring him back in. This will remove pollen from his fur. Ask your vet for specific advice.

Do you know or suspect that your pet has allergies? Call us, your local Roanoke, VA pet hospital, anytime. We are dedicated to keeping your beloved pet healthy!