Tag Archives: pest prevention

Cat Care, Dog Care, General Health

Springtime Hazards for Cats and Dogs

Your pet is probably looking forward to the warmer weather of spring just as much as you are. Now that it’s officially here, it’s important to keep in mind some seasonal pet hazards! Below, your Roanoke, VA vet tells you about common springtime dangers for cats and dogs and how to keep your companion safe.

Parasites

Spring is prime-time for outdoor pests like fleas, ticks, and parasitic worms to start wreaking havoc on our pets’ health. If your pet isn’t protected with preventative medications, they’ll be at risk of a dangerous infestation or infection! Make sure your pet wears a flea-and-tick preventative and is taking a heartworm medication; these measures keep most pets pest-free throughout the season. Talk to your vet right away if your pet needs these preventatives.

Cleaning Supplies

Doing a little spring cleaning this time of year? Remember to keep your pet elsewhere. A variety of cleaning products can harm pets; everything from household disinfectants and toilet-bowl cleaner to carpet shampoo and air fresheners poses a threat. It’s safest to move your pet to another room if you’re using something that gives off strong chemicals. Also, be sure to store cleaning products safely inside a locket supply closet where pets can’t reach.

Toxic Plant Life

Did you know that there are hundreds of potentially harmful plants and flowers out there for pets? Some of the most common include dieffenbachia, rhododendron (also called azalea), philodendron, amaryllis, lilies, tulips, daffodils, ivy, chrysanthemums, elephant ear, oleander, the sago palm, and various types of aloe plants. Check your home, garden, and landscaping to make sure you haven’t planted something harmful for your pet.

Allergies

Humans aren’t the only ones who can suffer from springtime allergies. Pets, too, might be sniffling and sneezing more than usual this time of year! In addition to tree pollen, pets can experience allergies to dirt, dust, mold, and a variety of other substances. If you think your pet might be suffering from springtime allergies, contact your vet’s office for help.

Escape

You’re probably looking forward to opening a few windows around the house to let in the comfortable breezes of spring. Just make sure your pet can’t escape—outfit all windows with sturdy mesh screens, and identify your pet properly with a microchip, ID tags, or both to be safe.

For more tips on keeping your pet safe this spring, call your Roanoke, VA veterinary clinic.

Dog Care, General Care

Coat Care Tips for Your Dog

Our canine companions aren’t quite as good at grooming themselves as our feline friends are. It’s up to you to make sure your dog’s coat of fur stays in tip-top shape! To keep your dog’s coat healthy and pristine, use these tips from a Roanoke, VA veterinarian.

High-Quality Diet

One of the easiest but most effective ways to keep your dog’s coat in top form is by feeding them a high-quality, well-balanced diet. Your dog’s skin and fur will remain healthy and moisturized when he receives the proper nutrients through food, and shedding will be kept to a minimum. Ask your veterinarian for a recommendation on a diet choice that suits your dog’s age, weight, and breed.

Brushing

At home, brushing your dog on a daily basis is one of the best ways to ensure that the coat stays healthy; it’s particularly important for dogs with longer hair. Brushing does many things: for one, it removes loose and dead fur from the coat, and it helps to pick up grime from the skin. Plus, brushing spreads natural skin oils through your dog’s fur, effectively moisturizing it and cutting down on shedding in the long run. Choose a brush and bristle type that will work best on your dog’s coat; ask your vet if you need help.

Bathing

The occasional bath is also effective for maintaining your dog’s coat quality. Plus, it helps your dog smell their absolute best! Always use a canine-formulated shampoo, as human shampoo isn’t made for use on your dog’s sensitive skin. Additionally, be sure not to bathe Fido too frequently. Bathing too often can actually backfire, drying out the skin and fur and resulting in an increase in shedding.
If you would like to know how often your beloved pet could use a bath, contact your vet’s office to learn more.

Pest Prevention Tips

Pests like fleas and ticks can wreak havoc on your dog’s coat of fur, even resulting in hair loss, bald patches, and painful scabs under the hair. Keep your dog on high-quality pest preventatives to avoid the issue entirely. Most dogs will do well with a flea-and-tick medication and a heartworm preventative to keep all pesky critters at bay. If your dog isn’t already set up with these medications, contact your vet’s office.

Would you like even more great tips for keeping your dog’s coat healthy? Call your Roanoke, VA animal hospital!