In this article, we’ll discuss five ways you can keep your pet healthy and safe this summer.

1. Preventatives

Preventatives are essential for keeping your pet healthy and happy all year long. During the summer months, many pets spend more time outdoors and are at greater risk of being exposed to mosquitos, fleas, and ticks. These insects can be a nuisance, but they can also carry disease and have a significant impact on your pet’s long-term health. Ensuring your pet is on the appropriate preventatives is an essential part of keeping your pet safe and reducing their risk of disease.

2. Pet ID and Microchips

While no pet owner wants to imagine their pet getting lost, pet identification can play a significant role in making sure your pet gets home safe.

One of the most common forms of identification is a name tag for your pet’s collar. When customizing your pet’s name tag, include contact information such as your phone number. This can be critical for helping people get ahold of you in an emergency.

If you are looking for a more permanent form of identification, microchips are a great option. Microchipping is a simple and pain-free procedure that can be performed during your pet’s routine wellness appointment. If your pet is lost, shelters and vet clinics can obtain your contact information from your pet’s microchip and help reunite you and your furry friend.

3. Prepare for “Booms”

From fireworks to summer storms, summer can mean more loud noises and sudden booms. For pets with noise phobias, it’s important to prepare for these events and provide your pet with some additional love and care.

If your pet has a noise phobia, pay close attention to your weather forecast and be mindful of holidays or other events where fireworks may be used. Some pets may also benefit from calming agents or medication to ease their fear and anxiety.

4. Know the Signs of Heat Exhaustion

As the temperatures rise, your pet’s risk of heat exhaustion increases. Heat exhaustion is extremely dangerous in pets and can be fatal if not properly treated. While reducing your pet’s exposure to extreme temperatures is critical, it’s also important to know how to recognize heat exhaustion in your pet. Some of the signs to look for include:

• Excessive panting
• Weakness or incoordination
• Vomiting or diarrhea
• Sudden collapse

If you notice any of these symptoms, please seek veterinary care immediately,

5. Lookout for Hot Spots

For many pets, warm weather can mean more hot spots. Hot spots are an inflammation of the skin and can turn into severe bacterial infections if not treated properly. If you notice your pet is excessively licking, examine the area for any redness or irritation. Getting your pet to stop licking is critical. However, you will also need to keep the area clean and dry. If the inflammation is severe or does not seem to be healing, please give us a call.

Final Thoughts

We hope this information will help keep your pets safe and prepare for blissful summer fun. If you have additional questions about preparing your pet for summer, please give us a call. We look forward to hearing from you and helping you keep your furry friends healthy and happy this summer.

In this article, we’ll discuss which parasites could be a risk to you and how to keep you and your pets parasite free.

Zoonotic Parasites

While many parasites can affect pets, zoonotic parasites can be transmitted from pets to people. Below are a few of the most common zoonotic parasites and what you need to know about them.

• Tapeworms

The most common zoonotic tapeworm is known as Dipylidium and is found in both dogs and cats. While you can not get this tapeworm directly from your pet, it can be spread by fleas. While it may seem unlikely that you would eat a flea, it can happen accidentally and is most commonly seen in children.

• Hookworms

Hookworms are another intestinal parasite that you can contract from your pet. Hookworm eggs can be excreted in your pet’s feces and live in the soil for long periods of time. When your skin comes in contact with contaminated feces or soil, the hookworm burrows into your skin. The infected area may become red and is often quite itchy.

• Toxoplasma

Toxoplasma is an intestinal parasite that is spread to humans through contact with cat feces. Symptoms of toxoplasma infection in people can vary but are usually mild and resemble the flu. However, pregnant women who become infected with Toxoplasma can spread the infection to their unborn children.

Keeping Your Pets Parasite Free

One of the most critical steps in keeping you and your pets safe is parasite prevention. Parasite prevention comes in various forms, including topical treatments, oral medications, and injectables. Some preventatives can protect your pet from multiple parasites. However, it’s essential to ensure your pet is fully protected from fleas, ticks, heartworms, and internal parasites.

If you have questions about your pet’s level of protection, our team is happy to provide recommendations and help make sure your pet is adequately protected.

In addition to preventative care, parasite testing is also critical. Fecal tests can detect intestinal parasites and are recommended during your pet’s annual wellness exam. You should also monitor your pet for any concerning symptoms such as weight loss, diarrhea, or excessive itch.

Reducing Your Risk

While keeping your pet parasite-free is critical, some additional measures can help reduce your risk. Always wash your hands before eating and after handling your pet. When your pet uses the bathroom, clean it up as soon as possible and always dispose of the waste properly.

Because of the increased health risks associated with Toxoplasma infection during pregnancy, the CDC recommends that pregnant women avoid cleaning their cat’s litter box when possible. Instead, ask another family member to help you with the task. If this is not possible, wear disposable gloves and wash your hands thoroughly when you are done.

Final Thoughts

Not only can parasite prevention protect your pet, but it can also help you! In addition to using parasite prevention, remember to be careful when cleaning up after your pet and always practice good hygiene.

If you have additional questions about keeping your pet parasite free, please give us a call. We are happy to set up an appointment to check your pet for parasites and discuss their preventative care.

Dangerous Decorations

While holiday decorations are certainly beautiful, some decorations can be troublesome for your pet. One of the most common issues is pets consuming objects or materials that they shouldn’t. From sparkly tinsel to shiny ornaments, your pet may try to chew or swallow your holiday decorations. Not only can this cause digestive issues, but it can also be a choking hazard. Monitor your pet closely and try to keep decorations out of reach if possible.

If you are putting up a Christmas tree, there are some additional hazards you should be aware of. Cats frequently see Christmas trees as an exciting new object to climb. While you should discourage your pet from climbing the tree, it is always a good idea to make sure the tree is adequately secured just in case. This way, the tree won’t come toppling down in the event of a rogue tree climbing adventure.

If you are celebrating with a live tree, make sure you keep your pet from drinking the water out of the tree base. Tree water can contain fertilizer and bacteria that can be harmful to your pet. Also, be aware that other holiday plants like mistletoe and holly are dangerous and should be avoided.

Toxic Treats

As you celebrate the holidays, there will likely be plenty of tasty treats around your home. Unfortunately, many of these treats can be toxic to your pet. Some of the most common toxic foods include chocolate, raisins, grapes, onions, and garlic. Additionally, many sugar-free candies and baked goods contain an ingredient known as xylitol. Even small amounts of xylitol can be hazardous.

Try to keep tasty treats out of your pet’s reach and never leave food unattended. Remind your guests of your food rules and provide pet-friendly treats instead. If you are unsure if your pet has eaten something toxic, it is always best to give us a call or contact the Pet Poison Helpline.

Holiday Party Problems

Before you have your family and friends over for a holiday gathering, you should consider the impact a holiday party can have on your pet. Many pets experience anxiety with large groups of people in their homes. Creating a safe space where your pet can retreat from strangers can help reduce some of their stress. This space can be a quiet bedroom or another closed-off area of the house.

Creating a safe space can also help protect your pet from other dangers. With many people coming and going, doors are sometimes left open, and there may be more opportunities for your pet to escape. Try to keep your pet away from the door when people are coming and going. Also, ensure all doors are properly closed before letting your pet loose in the house.

Enjoy!

We hope you enjoy this wonderful time of year with the ones you love. Keeping your furry friends safe will ensure a joyous time is had by all!

1. Feed them a healthy diet

One of the best things you can do for your cat is to feed them a healthy diet. The diet should be high in quality and be appropriate for their overall health needs. For example, we offer diets that help support dermatologic issues, weight problems, sensitive stomachs, and provide overall support for your pet at whatever life stage they are in. You will want to avoid giving your cat junk food or table scraps, which will lead to an overweight kitty and affect their health.

2. Brush their teeth

Brushing your cat’s teeth is one of the easiest ways to support their health. Not only does brushing their teeth remove plaque buildup, but it also helps support healthy gums. Without brushing, periodontal disease can develop – and left to worsen, this can affect your cat’s internal organs, leading to costly illnesses.

Important tip: NEVER use human toothpaste to brush your cat’s teeth. There are kinds of toothpaste specifically for your feline friend, and even in flavors, they’ll love!

3. Provide mental stimulation

Cats have active minds and a native instinct to hunt. If these two characteristics are not addressed, you may notice destructive behaviors in your cat, or possibly even boredom or depression. Food puzzles, foraging toys (which hide food inside), scratching posts, and vertical shelving for cats to get a “birds-eye view” can go a long way in keeping their minds engaged and their bodies active and healthy!

4. Be on the lookout for behavioral and health changes

There are some signs that can indicate your cat needs attention or medical care. If your cat is showing any of these signs, bring them to see us right away:

• Changes in activity level
• Changes in their appetite
• Hiding
• Signs of pain when touched or moved
• Weight loss

It’s important to note that cats are notoriously good at hiding pain and sickness, so subtle changes can help provide insight into issues that need to be addressed.

5. Remember to schedule their yearly veterinary visit

It is important that you bring your cat in for a yearly veterinarian visit. This ensures that they are up-to-date on their vaccinations and continue to get checkups to ensure that they remain healthy.

As we briefly mentioned before, cats hide illness and pain. Annual veterinary visits provide that nose-to-tail medical insight into changes that may have occurred over the past twelve months. As your cat’s veterinarian, we will check their weight, administer necessary vaccinations, complete any relevant lab work, and check the health of eyes, ears, skin, and teeth.

If your cat is a senior, more frequent visits, such as two times per year, are advised. Generally, cats become seniors around age 10, according to The American Association of Feline Practitioners.

We love seeing your cat!

All in all, there are many habits that will go a long way in keeping your cat healthy. We are here to partner with you in keeping your favorite feline happy, healthy, and part of your family for as long as possible! Give us a call to schedule your cat’s annual visit today!

1. Fabric Softener Sheets

Some pets feel attracted to these thin and fragrant laundry aids. Whether it’s the texture, the way they resemble toys, stuffing, or the scent, many pets have been known to try them out. Unfortunately, most dryer sheets contain camphor, benzyl acetate, and sometimes chloroform. All of these substances can injure dogs, cats, and other pets. Dryer sheets can cause your pet skin, eye, and nasal irritation, fluid to build in the lungs, and kidney failure.

2. Sugar-Free Gum

While you would never give your dog chewing gum, your dog may happen across a pack within reach or find a piece or two in your purse. While this may not seem like a big deal, if that gum is sugar-free (and its sugar-alternative is xylitol), your dog’s life could be at risk. Xylitol, often listed as “sugar alcohol” is what makes dental gum, toothpaste, some vitamin gummies, and many other products sweet. It can also cause your dog’s body to go into shock and even be fatal.

To keep your dog safe, always keep dental products and sweets in a secure location out of reach of your dog.

3. OTC Pain Relievers

Never give your pets over-the-counter medications without consulting us first. NSAIDs, like ibuprofen and aspirin, can damage your pet’s liver, cause vomiting and diarrhea, and lead to kidney dysfunction. NSAIDs are especially dangerous for cats.

4. Fertilizer

Fertilizers may not come to mind when you think about your pet’s safety, but many contain strongly scented ingredients that can make it appetizing to pets. These ingredients can include fish meal, chicken manure, and other odorous ingredients that dogs and cats love.

When pets eat fertilizers, they wind up with chemical burns to the mouth, skin, and stomach. Fertilizers also cause vomiting and diarrhea, lethargy, stomach pain, tremors, and anxiety.

5. Bar Soap

Soap eating is more common than many pet owners realize. Dogs especially have an affinity for soap. While most soaps are now harmless, your dog may feel pretty awful after munching down on a bar (some dogs may have an allergic reaction to soap fragrances or ingredients, though). They may vomit and have diarrhea–this is often where the danger arises. As your dog’s body tries to clear itself of the soap, they may become dehydrated.

Encourage your dog to drink water and if vomiting and diarrhea persist for more than a day or they seem disoriented or weak, please give us a call. Your dog may need fluids.

Keep Your Pet Safe and Your Home Poison-Proof

Dogs, cats, and other pets have a knack for surprising us with their agility along with their ability to eat the strangest things. Remember to keep anything that may pose a danger out of the reach of your pet. If you believe your pet has consumed something they shouldn’t have, we’re here to help. We can answer your questions and let you know if you should bring your pet in.

Here’s another fact: February is National Pet Dental Health Month. But we feel 28 days just isn’t long enough. We want this holiday to last a whole year, so we challenge you to try out all 12 of these dental tips over the course of the next year!

1. Schedule Your Pet’s Dental Cleaning

When your pet comes in for a cleaning, we’ll scrape away those years of tartar and rinse your pet’s teeth for an improved clean you can see (and smell). We will also let you know if your pet has any dental issues that need to be addressed with follow-up care.

2. Follow Up After Your Pet’s Dental Cleaning

Broken, worn away, and damaged teeth can cause your pet extensive pain and discomfort. If we recommend a tooth extraction or another dental operation, be sure to schedule the appointment and ask any questions before you leave our office. Most importantly, be sure to keep your appointment.

3. Make Dental Hygiene Fun with Toys!

There are so many toys available now that support your pet’s dental health while they chew and play. Adding a few of these toys to your pet’s playtime can support better dental health in the long run.

4. Dental Care Can Be Tasty

Along with toys designed to scrape away plaque, dental treats can also assist your pet in their dental health journey. Don’t forget to ask your pet to “sit” and “stay,” so they feel like they’re really earning these fun and tasty treats.

5. Water Additives Work

While your dentist recommends you use mouthwash, we recommend water additives made to loosen plaque and destroy oral bacteria. Most are just a capful per water bowl, and they work by making other dental approaches more effective.

6. Know the Signs of Dental Disease and Discomfort

Pets can speak, but they can tell us when their mouths hurt. If you notice your pet

• refraining from eating
• pawing their mouth
• favoring a side of the mouth while eating
• whining while eating or playing

your pet may be suffering from oral pain.

You also want to look for signs of dental disease or damage that require a visit to see us including

• Red, swollen, or bleeding gums
• Discoloration along the gumline
• Bumps or sores around the mouth and jaw
• Broken teeth
• Bad breath
• A tooth disintegrating (in cats)
• Blood on toys
• Loose teeth
• Extra or stringy saliva
• Avoiding having the mouth being touched
• A runny nose

7. Switch Your Pet’s Food

Your pet’s diet can benefit their dental health. A high-quality diet or dental food can help clean your pet’s teeth as they eat.

8. Use Dental Wipes

We know that many pets refuse to have their teeth brushed, and it’s easy to give up on the battle when your pet puts up a fight. Dental wipes can be an alternative that may not be 100% as effective as brushing, but they do help.

9. Start Brushing Your Pet’s Teeth

Use a pet-friendly toothpaste and toothbrush and commit to scrubbing those teeth each night. Encourage a positive association by starting slow and using a lot of treats!

10. Avoid Tennis Balls and Bones

While these items can offer a lot of excitement, they can also lead to broken teeth or wear away your pet’s enamel. Tennis balls can also harbor bacteria.

11. Encourage Your Pet to Drink More

Water doesn’t just prevent dehydration–it also improves your pet’s breath and dental health. Every time your pet drinks, it washes away bits of food and debris that can attract bacteria.

12. Treat Your Dog to Carrots and Celery

While you may have trouble convincing a cat to eat raw carrot or celery, your dog will love these as a treat. They’re healthy, low in calories, and you guessed it–good for their dental health.

As for your kitty, we can recommend some supplements that can help.

Don’t Delay Your Pet’s Dental Health

We hope you will dive in and get started this month and continue your pet’s dental journey all year long. Begin by making an appointment to see us now.

Watch Your Pet’s Weight All Year

We want to encourage you to be vigilant about your pet’s weight. Keeping track of weight gain and loss can help you identify health issues before they worsen. Weigh your pet with your bathroom scale. Weigh yourself. Then pick up your pet. What’s the weight difference?

January

Kick-off the new year on the right paw. Keep your pet active even in cold weather and don’t forget to:

• Schedule your pet’s annual check-up.
• Weigh your pet and record their weight: _____
• Order your pet’s monthly medications & paw balm.
• Sort through your pet’s prescriptions and toss any expired medications.
• Consider a prescription subscription service for your pet.
• Take note of your pet’s meal portions. Are you underfeeding or overfeeding your pet?
• Beginning writing down any behaviors you want to work on with your pet.

February

Snuggle up on your pet and plan to show your four-legged companion some extra love by:

• Refill heartworm prevention, and flea & tick prevention
• Has your pet made it in to see us yet? Don’t forget to schedule an annual exam
• Refill monthly medications
• Check your pet’s weight: _____
• Does your pet need a nail trim? If their nail clack on the floor or their dewclaw looks like a crescent, it’s time for a pet-icure.
• Look over your list of unwanted pet behaviors. Have you worked on them? If you have questions about pet anxiety or newly developed ‘bad bathroom habits,’ we can help. You may also want to consider hiring a trainer.
• February is Dental Health Month, don’t forget to schedule a dental cleaning. If you have an older dog also have bloodwork done to check kidney and liver function as well as overall health.

March

Your pet is lucky to have you as an owner. Here are somethings you can do to extend your pet’s life and luck:

• Do not skip heartworm prevention, and flea & tick prevention–the weather is warming up
• Have you considered monthly prescription refills for your pet?
• Weigh your pet: _____ . Has your pet lost weight, yet?
• Consider ordering a new
  _ Leash
  _ Harness
  _ Litter box
  _ Toys
• Review your garden safety routines–keep tools out of the grass and off the ground.

April

Spring is here! Warm-up to these pet health ideas:

• Look for signs that your pet is struggling with spring allergies. If you notice the following, make an appointment to see us:
  _ Itchy eyes or ears
  _ Paw licking or chewing
  _ Constant itchy
  _ Missing patches of fur
  _ Watery eyes
  _ Change in coat health
  _ Excessive sneezing

• Empty debris and containers collecting extra water around the yard
• Did you order your pet’s prescriptions for the month?
• Consider making a grooming appointment
• Remember to prevent your pet from lapping up water
• How much does your pet weigh? _____

May

May your pet’s health be better than ever. Keep up the good work by:

• Put together a pet first aid kit
• Add an extra water bowl to your home to encourage hydration
• Consider ordering pet-safe sunblock
• Don’t lose track of your pet’s weight
• Watch for bees, spiders, and other creepy-crawlers–avoid walking where deer or other wildlife tend to pass
• How much does your pet weigh this month? _____

June

Summer is here, and you’ve done a great job so far this year! Pets and summer are like peas and carrots. Keep your pet safe from the heat and protected from fleas, ticks, and heartworms.

• Ask us about how you can prevent your pet from leptospirosis
• Prepare for the 4th of July by scheduling an appointment this month. If your pet is afraid of fireworks–we can help!
• Check your pet’s microchip and update contact information.
• Six-month prescriptions from January are likely getting low. Refill your prescriptions soon.
• Mid-year weigh-in: _____

July

Just in the knick of summer–keep on track when it comes to pet hydration and heat safety.

• Remember that some people will do fireworks before the Fourth of July and after–be ready with your pet’s anti-anxiety medication.
• Don’t have a prescription to keep your pet calm during thunderstorms? Make an appointment to find out if your pet is a good candidate for anxiety control medication.
• Prevent your pet from drinking from outdoor water sources
• Did your senior pet get to see us last month? Don’t forget to bring them in for their second annual appointment.
• Is your pet shaping up to a beach bod? _____

August

Back to school time is here. Do you know how to help your pet cope with separation anxiety?

• Ask us about how we can help your pet handle their separation control.
• Consider hiring a dog walker, cat sitter, or using doggie daycare to help your pet adjust to back-to-school.
• Did you refill your pet’s prescriptions this month?
• Remember to avoid letting your dog swim in water with visible algae. Blue-green algae is deadly for dogs.
• How’s your pet’s weight?_____

September

Celebrate your pet’s physical health and encourage positive mental health with extra play sessions and outdoor time.

• Did you know pets can suffer from dementia, depression, and anxiety? Keeping your pet mentally active can stave off worsening dementia and reduce or prevent anxiety and depression. Commit to more walks and feather wands.
• If you notice any negative changes in behavior since January, give us a call. If your pet has improved–good for you!
• It’s hot out there–schedule a grooming session.
• Weigh your pet: _____

October

Fall is here. Keep your pet feeling fantastic by keeping all candy stored where your pet won’t find it.

• Fall back into a healthy exercise routine with your dog.
• Don’t forget to check your pet’s medications for refills.
• Begin planning for holiday travel. Boarding facilities fill up fast and dogs require a bordetella vaccine to stay in boarding facilities.
• Weigh your pet: _____

November

You’ve done a great job keeping your pet healthy this year–give yourself a round of “thanks!”

• Book Thanksgiving boarding ASAP if you have not. Book your boarding for the holiday season.
• Remember to keep Thanksgiving guests informed about your pet’s human-food hand-out policy.
• Keep walking and playing through the holiday season to help your pet’s mind stay active and his or her body healthy.
• Even as temperatures cool, continue to provide your pet’s flea and tick prevention.
• How much does your pet weigh? _____

December

You did a dog-gone great job this year keeping your pet healthy and having a great life. Give yourself a special gift as a reward for being a responsible pet owner.

• If your pet experiences stiffness, soreness, or chronic pain, please make an appointment to see us.
• Make your January pet check-up appointment
• Prepare for your pet’s winter with a new sweater, throw blankets, and a warm bed.
• Ask us about how you can help control your pet’s arthritis pain during the cold weather months
• Your pet’s end of year weigh-in: _____

Your Pet’s Health End of Year Review

Print your answers to these questions and bring them with you to your next appointment:

January Weight: ________________

December Weight: ________________

This year my pet began getting treatment for: (ex: anxiety, incontinence, excess weight, allergies) ___________________________

Their treatment is working/still unsure/not working. (ex: anxiety, incontinence, excess weight, allergies) ________________________________

My pet exercises about ____________ hours every week.

I have questions about:

• Flea & tick control
• Heartworm prevention
• Weight loss
• Pet diabetes
• Pet cancer
• Pet arthritis
• Pet anxiety
• Pet separation anxiety
• My pet’s: __ears/hearing, __eyes/sight, __nails, __skin or coat, __ joints
• Digestion or food allergies
• Pet dementia or memory loss

Give Your Pet Their Best Year: Healthy, Happy, & Having Fun

Your pet deserves the best health and best life. If you’re ready to provide your pet with a year of wags, purrs, and happy moments, print out this guide and make an appointment to see us soon. Happy New Year! Here’s to the barkingly best year, yet!

While we usually dedicate our November blog post to preventing your pets from gobbling up the turkey, we decided to spread some cheer with the top three reasons we’re thankful this year and how you can share the love with your animal companions.

1. We Are Thankful for Our Pets

Big or small, furry or bald, pets deserve a round of applause for making the hard days easier and the best days better. Our furry friends make us smile and laugh and give us purpose. Pets improve our mental and physical health, and they never expect us to say, “Thank you.” They simply want us to love them back.

Because pets enhance our lives, we are grateful to be entrusted with theirs. Thank you for your confidence in our ability to provide your pet with loving care during their visit and your trust that our guidance improves your pet’s overall health and wellbeing.

2. We Are Thankful for Clients that Support Local Veterinarians

Like other private practice vets, we stayed open as an essential business when coronavirus struck. Veterinary clinics across the U.S. have seen a sharp decline in appointments, forcing many to shut their doors permanently. While we were unsure what to expect in our office, we found that many of you brought your pet in for their regular exams, emerging conditions, and emergencies.

Because of that, we’re able to continue our mission to provide every pet that enters our clinic world-class professional veterinary care. We are grateful for those that continue to make appointments and seek care for their dogs, cats, and other pets from independent practices like ours.

3. We Are Thankful for Our Team

Working at a veterinary clinic can feel like herding cats…and sometimes we quite literally are! Our staff members play a vital role in keeping pets healthy, safe, comfortable, and happy. We are so grateful for a team that puts every ounce of energy, know-how, and love towards helping furry patients and their human parents. There are no words that describe how lucky we are to have such a caring crew.

How to Show Gratitude to Pets for All They Do

Pets are our best friends, our secret keepers, and our guardians. It may seem nearly impossible to repay all they do for us, but here are some ways to show them just how much they’re appreciated.

1) Help Your Pet Live a Long, Healthy Life

Routine exams, preventative care, and early diagnosis provide your pet with their healthiest and happiest life. From preventing parasites to catching cancer before it steals your pet’s health, regular veterinary visits are a valuable tool for repaying your pet’s love and companionship.

2) Spend Quality Time with Your Pet

Your pet loves you and enjoys spending time with you. (Yes, even your cat.) As the chaos of the holidays approaches, carve out time to spend with your pet. If you’re worried about a busy calendar, hire a pet professional for a home visit, or book a stay at a boarding facility to ensure your furry companion receives enough human attention.

3) Provide Your Pet with a Healthy Diet and Exercise

Obesity isn’t a small problem: it’s a fat fact that extra weight shortens a pet’s life. As winter arrives and the novelty of long walks wears off, don’t wane on keeping your pet active. Animals need to keep moving to keep their joints healthy, muscles toned, and minds stimulated. Play indoors by hiding treats around the house or using toys to keep your pet busy.

Feed your pet a well-balanced, high-quality diet and appropriate portions for their ideal size. If you’re unsure about the right food or feeding schedule, contact us for guidance. We’re happy to talk about pet nutrition and find the best food and treats for your companion.

4) Provide Your Pet with a Calm Refuge from Holiday Chaos

If you have a nervous pet, prepare a space for them to relax during the hustle and bustle of the holidays. A room with curtains drawn, a comfortable spot to lie down, and relaxing music will do the trick. You can also help your pet avoid stress caused by visitors by having them boarded.

5) Provide for Your Pet’s Cold Weather Needs

Pets are thankful for warm beds with a few additional blankets during the winter months, particularly if they have a few years under their collar. During walks, avoid icy areas to prevent sprains and strains and consider dressing your dog in a sweater or jacket if they have a thin coat.

We Are Thankful for You and Your Pets

Every wagging tail reminds us of our dedication to providing pets and their owners with quality veterinary care. We are lucky to have incredible clients, particularly during this challenging year, and we thank you for your continued trust, support, and patience. Happy Thanksgiving from your veterinary team!