Categories
Click the category icon to go to that section or scroll down.
Aging
How will aging affect my dog?
Dogs are members of your family — the loyalist of friends and always there for you. As is the case with humans, it can be hard to see them grow older. Nevertheless, knowing the most common signs of aging in dogs can better help you assist them as they grow into their older years.
Why do older dogs get arthritis?
Older dogs often slowdown in their later years because of arthritis — inflammation of the joints. As a dog owner, it helps to know what causes arthritis in older dogs, what the most common symptoms are, and how you can help ease the pain.
Why do dogs have short life spans?
All animals have different lifespans. Yet it seems especially cruel that dogs, a species so close to humans in so many ways, have such short ones. Dogs live anywhere from 8 to 15 years, depending on their breed and a number of other factors.
Behavior
What tips do you have for when my dog is playing with other dogs?
Many dog owners don’t know how to facilitate safe and friendly play for their pet with other dogs. Keep the following points in mind as you introduce your dog to potential playmates.
Why do dogs dig holes?
Digging is a natural behavior in dogs, but it’s not always a favorite behavior of their human parents. What most dog parents want to know is why dogs dig and whether it’s a symptom of a bigger problem.
Why do dogs hate to have their nails trimmed?
Today, domesticated dogs need their nails trimmed by humans — and it’s not generally a pleasant experience for either party. Here are some tips to help ease the stress of the task of trimming your dog’s nails.
Why do dogs lick their wounds?
When a dog has some sort of wound or injury, it is simply an instinct for them to repeatedly lick the affected area. Licking distracts the dog from the pain of the wound, but it is ultimately not productive for your furry friend’s healing process.
Why do dogs sleep so much?
Many dog owners wonder why (and frankly, how) their dogs can sleep so much. They sleep in the day on the couch, in their beds, outside, in the car, and then, they seem to sleep the whole night through. This is normal, but in some cases, excessive sleep may be a sign of something more worrisome.
Why does my dog eat grass?
There are many proposed theories as to why dogs eat grass, but because the behavior has been observed in wolves, it’s considered instinctual. Still, sometimes the behavior can seem excessive and worries the dog owner.
Why does my dog scoot around on his bottom?
At one point or another, you’ve likely noticed your dog scooting around the floor or ground on their bottom. Normally, it will just be an irritation like an itch. But if the dog does this excessively, then there may be a bigger problem.
Why is my dog eating poop?
Dog owners frequently want to know why their dogs are consuming either their own or other pets’ feces. It’s not uncommon for dogs to consume fecal matter. It seems disgusting and unhealthy. It’s normal if it happens occasionally, but in some cases medical problems may be causing this.
Biology
Are dogs color blind?
This question is a little tricky because it’s partly both true and false. A good amount of research has been done on color blindness in dogs. Dogs are not colorblind in the sense that the world is only black and white. Dogs have two-colored, or dichromatic color vision.
Are seven dog years equal to one human year?
The old adage is that, for every one human year, a dog ages seven years. The truth is it’s a bit more complicated than that. In fact, there’s a new formula that is much more accurate.
What are dog breeds that don't shed as much?
Considering the addition of a new dog to your family? Whether someone at home has a dog allergy or you just hate to see your furniture covered in hair, here are the top seven dog breeds that don’t shed (too much).
Why does my dog drool?
Slobber is just another delightful part of having a dog sometimes. Some dog-owners will end up dealing with more slobber than others. Here are some commonly asked questions about what causes all that drool.
Why does my dog have bad breath?
Most dog owners love a good hug or lick from their furry friends. But getting so close can also mean the occasional whiff of your dog’s notoriously bad breath. Here’s what causes it.
Why does my dog shed?
All dogs shed, though some more than others. If you have a dog who sheds excessively, it may simply be a trait of your dog’s breed. Here’s why most dogs shed, some tips for mitigating the mess, and how to know when to worry about excessive shedding.
Dental
How often should my dog have a dental exam?
It is every pet owner’s responsibility to take proper care of their dog’s health, including their dental health. Good dental care starts at home but it also must include regular visits to your veterinarian.
What tips do you have for my dog's dental care at home?
When it comes to keeping your dog healthy, one of the most important aspects is maintaining good oral hygiene. By taking just a few steps toward better dog dental care at home, your dog will enjoy a longer, happier life.
What are symptoms of bad dental health?
If you notice any of these things, then pet dental care should be your next step. If you have access to a good vet, they will be able to tell you what is going on and if it is dental health related.
What is periodontal disease?
By age 3, 80% of dogs have some form of periodontal disease so keep those teeth clean! There are several signs of periodontal disease in pets. Here is what to look for.
Diet
What foods should I avoid giving my dog?
While some leftovers are okay for your pets, there are many foods that you should never feed to your dog. Here are some of the worst and what makes them so bad.
Why is chocolate bad for dogs?
How can something so good be so bad? Dogs probably love chocolate as much as their people do but unfortunately it can have some serious consequences to a dog’s health.
Is raw dog food harmful to my dog?
Raw dog food has gotten a lot of attention these days. However, an increasing body of research is leading scientists to caution against the use of raw canine food. It turns out that it may be far more harmful than beneficial.
What should I do about my dog's obesity?
Unfortunately, dogs can be diagnosed as overweight or obese, both of which are bad for canine health. Here are just a few of the most common complications.
Why did my dog stop eating?
Your dog may occasionally skip a meal, which is normal. However, regularly neglecting meals can point to larger underlying issues. We’ve outlined several reasons why.
How often should I clean the dog food bowl?
While we humans clean our dishes after every meal, we often forget the importance of cleaning our pets’ food bowls. In fact, many people never clean their pet’s bowls, which could actually be hazardous to their health.
Exercise
Do you have any tips for walking my dog?
Nearly all dogs love going for walks. We’ve outlined several of the most important reasons you should be walking your dog daily, plus some added tips for better walks.
Is swimming good for my dog?
Dogs love to swim and it’s good for them! It provides excellent exercise for muscle strengthening and it’s a good cardiovascular workout. Take a look at some of the other top benefits of swimming for your dog.
What are good summer activities for my dog?
If your dog seems bored this summer, here are some summer activities to try together. Just remember, when the weather gets hot, to keep your dog well hydrated and opt for cooler, shady spots to play in.
Health
How do I prepare for my dog's first visit to the vet?
Your pet’s first visit to the vet may be their most important. That’s because this visit will set the tone for how they’ll feel about veterinarians in general throughout the course of their life. We want your pet to feel as comfortable as possible. That’s why we’ve compiled the following 5 preparation tips.
Is blue-green algae dangerous for dogs?
There has been a rise in harmful blooms of algae that occur naturally in lakes, streams, and other bodies of fresh water. Blue-green algae blooms arise from a type of bacteria called cyanobacteria, which can be dangerous to people and animals.
Is CBD oil good for my dog?
CBD oil has been rumored to have several health benefits in both humans and pets, including as a treatment for anxiety and depression, cancer, seizure disorders and as an anti-inflammatory agent. At this time, no official research has been published that concludes CBD oil is beneficial to pets or even truly safe.
What are the milestones in a dog's first year?
Welcoming a puppy into your home for the first time as part of the family is one of life’s most joy-filled occasions. What should you expect in those first few months of puppy parenthood? Here are your puppy’s key milestones during their first year in your care.
What are the risks of treating my dog at home?
The Internet is an excellent resource for animal care advice, but it’s not the best place to go for diagnosing your pet’s ailments. Treating your pet on your own, without guidance from a professional veterinarian, may very well put your pet in greater danger than if you did nothing.
What should be on my new puppy checklist?
It can be extremely exciting to have a brand-new puppy bounding around the house! But just remember that being prepared is truly the name of the game when it comes to adopting any new pet. Here is your new puppy checklist to make sure everything is in place before your new pup’s adoption day.
Why is important to play with my dog?
Setting aside time to play with your dog is critical for your pet’s health. An active lifestyle provides significant benefits that contribute to a pet’s overall well-being. Playing with your pet on a consistent basis is extremely important if you leave your dog home alone for extended periods of time.
Why is my dog so itchy?
Dogs can be itchy for any number of reasons, some of which are benign and shouldn’t worry you. Still, your dog’s itching may seem like more than just getting at a scratch, and it’s important to take these concerns seriously. Here are some of the main reasons dogs itch and what to do about it.
Why should I spay/neuter my dog?
Spaying your pet is a personal decision, and an important one for the health and happiness of both your pet and your family. Spaying can affect your pet’s lifestyle and longevity, so take some time to consider the advantages of this simple and effective procedure.
Home
How can I make my home more dog-friendly?
If you’re welcoming a new dog to your home, then there are always things you can do to make your home more pet-friendly.
How do I help calm my dog during a storm?
It’s not uncommon for pets to become terrified when a thunderstorm occurs. They don’t know why it’s happening, but they definitely do not like it. Here are some things you can do to help keep your pet calm and reduce their stress.
How do I make a first aid kit for my dog?
If you want to make sure your pets will be safe no matter where you are or what you’re doing, one of the best steps you can take is setting up a pet first aid kit. Here’s how to do it.
How do I prepare my dog for the arrival of a new baby?
If you’re expecting a baby, it’s smart to start preparing your pets for your little one’s arrival. Many animals don’t know what babies are or how to interact with them. These tips can condition and familiarize your pet with babies to make the transition smoother.
How often should I bathe my dog?
All dog owners know that they should be bathing their pet regularly, but just how often does a dog need to be bathed? First of all, it depends. There are three main factors that you’ll want to consider.
What are some of the dangers around the house for my dog?
Every year numerous pets manage to get into something toxic around the house. If you have fur babies, make sure to keep these 5 things far out of reach.
What should I do to prepare for a fire with a dog?
Much of protecting your pets from fire involves having a strong disaster plan in place. Know exactly what you and your family would do in the event of a fire in your home and make your pets a part of this plan. Here are some useful tips for keeping your pets safe from fire in your home.
Why are dog ids and microchips important?
Experts estimate that between 40 and 60 percent of shelter animals are actually family pets — but when a pet is found without ID, there’s often no way for them to return home. We recommend ID-ing each of your pets with a collar ID and a microchip.
Illness
What causes seizures in dogs?
Unfortunately, dogs can have seizures. Here are the most common types, why they occur, and some key tips you can use if your pet ever experiences a seizure.
Does my dog have cataracts?
A common question we get is if a pet is developing cataracts because their cloudy eyes. The answer is it depends. Dogs and cats certainly do get cataracts but there can be other things that can make an eye look cloudy.
What is canine influenza?
Canine influenza is very contagious between dogs. The virus spreads through respiratory droplets and survives in the environment for 48 hours on items like food bowls, kennels, and collars. Here are the symptoms and what to do.
Why do puppies need so many vaccines?
New puppies need so many things, including vaccinations. Vaccines are designed to stimulate their immune systems to learn and remember certain infectious diseases caused by viruses and bacteria.
Why does my dog hide when sick?
It’s not uncommon for a pet to hide in a hard-to-find location when they’re ill. This action is a natural instinct. Animals are hardwired to hide when they are feeling sick or weak because weak animals are easier targets for predators.
Injury
What are the most common dog injuries?
Your dog loves to play! And they probably love to eat, explore, and chew on things as well. All are generally healthy and safe for your dog, but sometimes accidents happen. Here are the 3 common injuries in dogs to be on the lookout for.
What signs should I look for that my dog is in pain?
Dogs communicate their feelings in a variety of ways, notably behavior, physical movement, and energy levels. It’s especially important to recognize signs that your pet is in pain so that you can get veterinary care quickly.
Parasites
How do I prevent my dog from getting fleas?
As an animal owner, it is essential to be mindful of the possible harm that fleas and ticks can inflict upon your pet. Fleas and ticks can carry diseases and parasites. Use the following information to protect yourself and your pets from fleas and ticks.
What can I do to prevent heartworms in my dog?
If you live in Oklahoma, you must use heartworm prevention each month all year round. Skipping doses is dangerous and not worth the risk. Protecting your dog or cat from this potentially fatal parasite is an essential part of being a responsible pet owner.
Why is heartworm prevention important?
There are still diseases that have not yet been fully eradicated such as heartworm. As veterinarians, heartworm disease is preventable in all pets, but only treatable in dogs. Understanding how heartworms occur, how to prevent them and how to treat them can save your pet from the pain and suffering associated with this deadly disease.
Seasonal
How do I keep my dog healthy in the summer?
Summer means hot temps and some uncomfortable days and nights for both humans and animals. Dogs have less options for cooling down than people, and of course they’re covered in fur. Here are tips for keeping your pup cool, comfortable, and safe.
How do I prevent my dog from overheating?
When summer is in full-swing that means dogs are at risk of dehydration, heatstroke, and even death as a result of high temperatures. To prevent these worst-case scenarios, take good care of your dog this summer and follow these tips.
What are tips to protect my dog in the summer?
Dogs love summer fun as much as their humans. They will keep going and going even beyond their safe limits to stay by our side. Follow these summer dog safety tips to keep them safe.
How long is too long for a dog out in the cold?
Most of our canine friends love to be outdoors. And of course, it’s good for them. The fresh air, exercise, and mental stimulation all play positive roles in your pet’s health. Still, when winter hits and the temps begin to drop, it’s also important to remember that dogs, like us, can be negatively affected by the cold.
Travel
Do you have advice for taking a dog camping?
Unlike some other trips you might take in resorts or hotels, dogs are the perfect companions to take along when you go camping. Take these steps to ensure the safety and well-being of your pet at the campground.
Do you have any tips for traveling with my dog?
A recent study indicates that about 60% of pet owners want to bring their pets along when they travel. If you plan to travel with your pet or have wondered what that would look like, here are some known tips to keep in mind.
Do you have any tips before traveling with my dog?
More and more pet owners today are traveling with their furry friends. For your pet, traveling can be difficult and cause a certain amount of stress. If you decide to travel with pets in tow, here are some important tips to keep in mind.
Do you have advice for helping my dog adjust to moving?
Almost everyone moves homes at some point. Everyone knows that this is a trying experience for everyone involved and even more challenging for pets who can’t fully understand why their world has suddenly changed. To make the moving process seamless, here are some important tips to keep in mind.
Is there anything I can do about my dog's car sickness?
For many dogs, riding in the car is pure joy and thrill. Head out the window, ears flapping in the wind, and tongue hanging out. But for some dogs it’s not so much fun. That’s because many dogs suffer from car sickness. Here are the common symptoms and what you can do to prevent it.
What should I avoid doing at the dog park?
Dog parks can be great fun for pups who don’t get to run and play at home or interact with other pets on a regular basis. Still, it’s important to know the safety protocol when bringing your dog to the dog park. Certain, unsafe practices can easily put your dog at risk.
Categories
Click the category icon to go to that section or scroll down.
Aging
How do I care for my senior cat?
Cats generally reach senior age when they are around 10 years old. At this time, it may be suitable to change some of the ways you care for your feline friend. Here are some tips for optimal senior cat care.
How does aging affect my cat?
Eventually, all pets show signs of aging, which can be difficult for pet owners who aren’t sure how to react if they notice symptoms. It’s crucial to be aware of the most underdiagnosed conditions in aging cats.
Behavior
What do I do if my cats are fighting?
If you have more than one cat at home or your cat encounters another cat, they may fight. Here’s what to do to break up the situation and prevent further fights from happening.
Why did my cat stop using the cat litter?
Over time, it’s not uncommon for some cats to develop an avoidance of the litter box. This can be both a worrisome and a frustrating problem. Here are some of the most common causes of this issue with some possible solutions.
How do I stop my cats from scratching the furniture?
Like it or not, cats love to scratch. They do it for functional reasons and for communication. Unfortunately, in the home, cats aren’t very discerning about where they scratch. This means their scratching habits can result in damage to furniture and curtains. Here is what you need to help avoid this.
Why does my cat hide when sick?
It’s not uncommon for a cat to hide when they’re ill. Animals like to be alone when they aren’t feeling well because of a natural instinct. But is your pet really sick? Here are other signs and symptoms to watch out for.
What does my cat do when I'm not at home?
In the movie The Secret Life of Pets, cats left home alone chat with their animal friends, raid the refrigerator, and go on wild adventures. But what do cats really do when they’re left for the day? Aside from eating and sleeping, turns out they have a few commonly favored activities.
Why do cats knead?
Kneading is when your cat rhythmically presses their paws back-and-forth against a soft surface like your lap, a couch cushion, or a blanket laying on the floor. It turns out there is no definitive answer, but there are some likely theories.
Why do cats rub against your leg?
Vets and animal experts have differing opinions on why our feline friends tend to saunter between our legs as we walk. Here are the prevailing theories on why cats do this sometimes-perplexing behavior called bunting.
Why does my cat act so weird?
It is estimated that of the more than 2 million “cat videos” on YouTube right now. What’s so great about cats doing random things like purring, stalking, clawing, and pouncing anyway? Well, if you’re a cat owner or cat lover yourself, you already know that cats do weird stuff.
Why does my cat eat grass?
Eating grass is a normal behavior for both cats and dogs, though there are different opinions as to why. Here are some ideas and when the green veggie diet might be a cause of concern.
Why does my cat roll over when he sees me?
Although your cat may typically adopt an elegant, refined demeanor and posture, they may also occasionally surprise you and do something quite out of the ordinary — such as rolling over and shimmying on their back when they see you. There isn’t one firm reason for the roll over move. Here are the ideas about this unique feline behavior.
Biology
Can cats really see in the dark?
You’ve probably heard the rumor that cats can see in the dark. Here are some nocturnal facts about our feline friends and what they can see in the dark.
Why do cats have whiskers?
As it turns out, whiskers are not just for cuteness. Those stiff hairs are hard at work 24/7 to enable your cat to take inventory of their world and explore their surroundings.
Dental
How often should my cat have a dental exam?
Keeping your pets’ teeth clean and healthy is a big part of their overall wellness. Good dental care starts at home but it also must include regular visits to your veterinarian.
Diet
How often should I clean the cat food bowl?
While we humans clean our dishes after every meal, we often forget the importance of cleaning our pets’ food bowls. In fact, many people never clean their pet’s bowls, which could actually be hazardous to their health.
What foods should I avoid giving my cat?
While some “human treats” and leftovers are okay for your pets, there are many foods that you should never feed to your cat. Make sure you keep the following away from your pets at all costs.
Health
Are hairballs a serious problem?
Cat hairballs are not only unpleasant to deal with, they can potentially be dangerous for your cat. Here is an explanation of what causes hairballs and when you should be concerned.
Do cats have seizures?
Yes, cats can have seizures. We outline some key tips you can use if your pet ever experiences a seizure and review the most common types.
Does my cat have cataracts?
Some think their pet is developing cataracts because their eyes look cloudy, but it depends. Cats do get cataracts but there can be other things that can make an eye look cloudy.
How do I prepare for my cat's first visit to the vet?
Your pet’s first visit to the vet may be their most important. That’s because this visit will set the tone for how they’ll feel about veterinarians in general throughout the course of their life. Here are a few tips to help prepare.
Is CBD oil good for my cat?
CBD oil has been rumored to have several health benefits in both humans and pets, including as a treatment for anxiety and depression, cancer, seizure disorders and as an anti-inflammatory agent. At this time, no official research has been published that concludes CBD oil is beneficial to pets or even truly safe.
What are common mistakes cat owners sometimes make?
Bringing a new cat home is a major decision. Even though cats tend to be more independent, they still require a time, attention and medical care. Here are some things potential cat owners should know to avoid the common mistakes.
What are the risks of treating my cat at home?
The Internet is certainly an excellent resource for animal care advice, but it’s not the place to go for diagnosing your pet’s ailments. Treating your pet on your own—without guidance from a professional veterinarian—may very well put your pet in greater danger than if you did nothing.
What should be on my new kitten checklist?
So, you’ve adopted a new, fluffy, adorable kitten — congratulations! There’s a lot of things that should be on your checklist. Here are some of the must-dos for welcoming a new feline friend into your family.
Why do kittens need so many vaccines?
Getting a new kitten is an exciting time for everyone in the family. New kittens can be a lot of work as well. They need to be fed, provided water, potty-trained, socialized, and they also need medical care, including vaccines. Vaccines are designed to stimulate the immune system to learn and remember certain infectious diseases caused by viruses and bacteria.
Why should I spay/neuter my cat?
Spaying your cat is a personal decision, and an important one for the health and happiness of both your pet and your family. Spaying can affect your pet’s lifestyle and longevity, so take some time to consider the advantages of this simple and effective procedure.
What are some common cat injuries?
Several common injuries befall cats regularly. If you have a cat, you may have encountered any one of these. To help you know what to do right away if your cat is hurt at home, we’ve created a list of the most common cat injuries and what to do to treat them.
What signs should I look for that my cat is in pain?
Cats communicate their feelings in a variety of ways such as behavior, physical movement, and energy levels. It’s especially important to recognize signs when your pet is in pain so that you can get veterinary care quickly.
Home
How can I make my home more cat-friendly?
If you’re welcoming a new kitten home, there are always things you can do to make your home more pet-friendly.
How do I help calm my cat during a storm?
It’s not uncommon for pets to become rather terrified when a thunderstorm occurs. They don’t know why it’s happening, but they definitely do not like it. Fortunately, there are some things you can do to help keep your pet calm.
How do I keep my cat safe around the pool?
Being safe around pools should be a concern for everyone – toddlers, kids, adults, and pets. Follow these safety steps to keep your cat safe near the pool.
How do I make a first aid kit for my cat?
If you want to make sure your pets will be safe no matter where you are or what you’re doing, one of the best steps you can take is setting up a pet first aid kit. Here’s how to do it.
How do I prepare my cat for the arrival of a new baby?
If you’re expecting a baby, it’s smart to start preparing your pets now for your little one’s arrival. Many animals don’t know what babies are or how to interact with them. These tips will help everyone in the house get along.
How do I set up my home for multiple cats?
If you are considering having a multi-cat household one of the keys to keeping the peace is to ensure there are enough resources as well as space for everyone. While there is no real way to avoid all possible problems, here are a few tips on how you can help keep the peace.
What are some of the dangers around the house for my cat?
Every year we treat numerous pets who managed to get into something toxic. If you have fur babies, make sure to keep these things far out of reach.
What should I do for playtime with my cat?
Cats need more than cuddling; they need play to remain active throughout their lives. Instead of waiting around for your cat to initiate play, make play a two-sided experience by turning toys into prey. Both you and your cat will be happy.
What should I do to prepare for a fire with a cat?
Much of protecting your pets from fire involves having a strong disaster plan in place. Know exactly what you and your family would do in the event of a fire in your home and make your pets a part of this plan. Here are a few useful tips for keeping your pets safe from fire in your home.
Why are cat ids and microchips important?
Experts estimate that between 40 and 60 percent of shelter animals are actually family pets — but when a pet is found without ID, there’s often no way for them to return home. We recommend ID-ing each of your pets in two ways—with a collar ID and a microchip.
How do I choose the best cat for me?
Adopting a cat is lifetime commitment, so consider the following questions as you meet various cats so that you can find your best match.
Parasites
Can I get worms from my cat?
The simple answer is yes, there are some parasites of cats that people can get from their cat. This is why it is very important to regularly check your cat for parasites during their wellness visits. Here are some of the most common parasites that can be passed from cats to humans.
How do I prevent my cat from getting fleas?
As an animal owner, it is essential to be mindful of the possible harm that fleas and ticks can inflict upon your pet — and perhaps you. Fleas can carry diseases and parasites such as Murine typhus, tapeworms, and Bartonella. Use the following information to protect yourself and your pets from fleas and ticks.
What can I do to prevent heartworms in my cat?
If you live in Oklahoma, you must use heartworm prevention each month all year round. Skipping doses is like playing roulette with your pet’s life. It’s dangerous and just not worth it. Protecting your dog or cat from this potentially fatal parasite is an essential part of being a responsible pet owner.
Why is heartworm prevention important?
There are still diseases that have not yet been fully eradicated such as heartworm. Heartworm disease is one of the most difficult to treat, simply because it is preventable in all pets. Understanding how heartworms occur, how to prevent them and how to treat them can save your pet from the pain and suffering associated with this deadly disease.
Seasonal
How cold is too cold for my outside cat?
Even when the temperature drops to a frigidly cold level, it’s not uncommon for outdoor cats not to come when they’re called indoors. For the most part, cats are adequately adapted for relatively cold temperatures. But there is a limit, and in general, it’s anywhere below freezing.
Travel
Do you have any tips while traveling with a cat?
A recent study indicates that about 60% of pet owners want to bring their pets along when they travel. If you plan to travel with your pet or have wondered what that would look like, here are some little-known tips.
How do I help prepare my cat for a trip?
More and more pet owners today are traveling with their furry friends. However, for your pet traveling can be difficult and cause a certain amount of stress. If you decide to travel with pets in tow, here are some important tips to keep in mind.
Do you have advice for helping my cat adjust to moving?
Almost everyone moves homes at some point in their lives. It’s a trying experience for everyone involved. It is even more challenging for pets who can’t fully understand why their world has suddenly changed. To make the moving process seamless, there are some important tips to keep in mind when moving a pet into a new environment.
Categories
Click the category icon to go to that section or scroll down.
Appointments
How do I make an appointment?
To schedule an appointment, call the clinic at 405-844-2888, email [email protected] or you can schedule online through our patient portal.
What if I need to cancel my appointment?
If you need to cancel or reschedule call the clinic at 405-844-2888 or email us at [email protected].
What forms of payment do you accept?
We accept, cash, all major credit cards, and Care Credit.
What should I expect on my first visit?
The flow varies depending on the type of appointment—new pet, puppy boosters, illness, etc. In general, during your pet’s first visit, the assistant will review the patient’s history, then the veterinarian will do their head-to-tail exam. At this time, we would fill any medications (if needed) and go over discharge instructions.
What do I do if my pet is having an emergency?
If your pet has an emergency, call Blue Pearl Animal Emergency Center at (405) 749-6989.
Boarding
Will I need to provide medical information?
You either need to provide a current vaccination record or your pet will be vaccinated in order to be boarded. The required vaccines are:
- DA2PPv (within 1 year for dogs)
- LEPTOSPIROSIS (within 1 year for dogs)
- BORDATELLA (within 1 year for dogs)
- FVRCPC/FeLv (within 1 year for cats)
- RABIES (within 1-3 years depending on vaccine used for dogs and cats)
- Intestinal parasite test (within 1 year for dogs and cats).
Will my pet be alone in its quarters?
Our facility is staffed 7-days each week to ensure that your pet’s stay is as pleasant and comfortable as possible. At night, your pet will be by themselves during the night, unless they have a buddy boarding with them.
Will my pet get time with a human?
We interact with your pets in a limited way to make sure they are doing well and dogs are walked three times per day.
How often will my pet be fed?
Each pet will have different needs based on breed, age, size, and energy level for how much food and how often food is provided. We will follow regular guidelines based on size and breed or we will follow your feeding instructions.
Exams
How often should my pet have an exam?
In general, all dogs and cats should have a complete physical check-up at least once per year, but we recommend twice a year for older pets. These wellness exams give you a chance to track your dog’s growth and development and discuss any concerns with your vet.
Why does my pet need dental cleanings?
Dental cleanings and procedures allow the veterinarian to closely inspect your dog’s mouth, teeth, oral cavity, and gums, and also allow the veterinarian to take radiographs to look for possible problems not visible to the naked eye.
What happens during my pet’s dental cleaning?
A dental cleaning visit will include a thorough dental examination, teeth cleaning, and polishing to remove the tartar and periodontal disease-causing plaque. This is done while your dog is under general anesthesia.
Surgery
My pet is having surgery tomorrow. Can it have food and water?
No food or water should be given to your pet after 10:00 pm the night before any anesthetic event.
When can I pick my pet up following their surgery?
Surgery patients will usually stay with us until after 3:00 pm. This time will depend on how well the pet wakes up after their anesthetic event. We are looking for the patient to be awake, alert, and able to walk out on their own.
How long do sutures stay in after my pet's surgery?
If your dog’s incision has non-dissolving skin stitches, staples, or stent sutures, they are usually removed 10-14 days after the operation; the actual time depends on the type of surgery performed.
Does my pet need pain medication after surgery?
Unless they are receiving CRI medications, most dogs receive an injection of a narcotic pain reliever immediately after surgery. They also generally receive a dose of a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) to decrease both pain and inflammation.