PETS: A LOT TO GIVE, A LOT TO SHARE
ADOPTING A SHELTER DOG
IS YOUR DOG FEELING DOWN?
PET DENTAL HEALTH
TOXOPLASMOSIS
DOGS – MORE THAN JUST BEST FRIENDS
CATS WITH BREAST CANCER
SAVE A CHOKING DOG
FELINE AGGRESSION
SOY FOR DOGS?
THE SPECIAL NEEDS OF AGING CATS
DOGS AND CATS WITH FOOD ALLERGIES
THE CAT’S MEOW
SHOULD DOGS SHARE THE FAMILY BED?
CAN I LEASH-TRAIN MY CAT?
HOW DO DOGS SEE?
KEEP KITTY OFF THE COUNTER! |
PETS: A LOT TO GIVE,
A LOT TO SHARE
Are you among the millions who share their lives with one or more pets? If so, you know how important they can be. Pets enrich our lives just by being there, such as when a dog puts his head on your knee, or when the cat comes and sits with you. Whatever kind of pet you have, there are responsibilities that go along with the rewards of ownership. Your pet deserves the basics such as a nourishing diet, fresh water, grooming, exercise, health care and lots of love. A veterinarian can help keep your pet healthy and happy with medical check-ups and immunizations. In the weeks to come, we’ll bring you information about different kinds of pets and their care.
Welcome to our column. Our practice specializes in treatments and medical procedures for animals including: preventative medicine, nutrition and general health, and treatment of serious diseases and disorders. Our commitment to healthy and happy animals is everlasting; we always put your animals’ health first and foremost. If you need health care for your pet come see us at 3414 S. Hwy 97 or call 918.245-VETS (8387) today. Where your pet's health is our passion.
When adopting a shelter dog, there are many decisions to make before setting foot inside the kennel. First decide on a general size. A family with very small children should not adopt a toy-sized dog unless the children are unusually low key. Small dogs have small bones that are easily broken. On the other hand, elderly people often have frail bones that are easily broken, so families with elderly members should avoid large, rambunctious dogs. Decide who will take care of the dog, and make a solid, thought-out plan for feeding, walking, grooming, and playing. Shelter dogs have often been through hard times and may need help getting back on their feet.
The critical question to ask is "Will this dog fit my family?" If the answer is yes, a shelter dog may be the perfect choice. We recommend regular check-ups so that we can help you monitor your pet’s overall health. At our practice, we provide your pet with the best care available. Our professional animal care specialists have the experience and knowledge to keep your pet healthy. Bring your pet to 3414 S. Hwy 97 or call 918-245-VETS (8387) today for care you can count on. Where your pet's health is our passion.
IS YOUR DOG FEELING DOWN?
Just like their human counterparts, dogs are highly sensitive and susceptible to depression. Dogs can become depressed as a result of significant changes including a family member dying, a move to a new house, or even by small changes such as the change of seasons or a change in the owner’s work schedule. Appetite changes, sudden weight loss, sleepiness, or loss of interest in playing or interacting are depression warning signs. Depressed dogs can also become nippy or aggressive toward their owners. Some dogs even suffer from chemical imbalances that cause depression. Bring the dog to the veterinarian for an evaluation and to put a treatment plan in place at any sign of depression.
Yes, even dogs can become depressed. It is not uncommon to see a dog start acting differently when certain things happen. Depression in dogs could be very dangerous especially if they stop eating or drinking enough water. We’re located at 3414 S. Hwy 97, we are happy to talk to you about dog depression and any other problems you may have with your pet. Call 918-245-VETS (8387) with any questions. Our focus is on the wellness and the quality of life of your pet with preventive veterinary care, which helps us to prevent and detect illnesses early. Where your pet's health is our passion.
Many pet owners are desensitized to their pet’s halitosis. But “dog breath” or “cat breath,” as the case may be, is more than just a cliché, as there is always a cause for bad breath. Sometimes the odor is caused by the ingestion of something foul like garbage or feces. Often it’s caused by poor oral hygiene. Less often, underlying medical conditions are to blame. Dogs and cats can get periodontal disease, and the bacteria can travel in the bloodstream throughout the body, causing infections and heart disease. Dogs and cats need their teeth brushed, and it’s a good idea to have yearly dental exams performed. The veterinary dentist can also give instructions on home care for animal teeth.
Caring for your pet should include dental hygiene. Our pets are living longer, therefore it is important for us to help them retain their healthy teeth through proper hygiene. Several times a week you should physically brush your pet's teeth. We are experienced animal experts, and you can entrust the complete care of your animal with us. Bring your pet to 3414 S. Hwy 97 or call 918-245-VETS (8387)for more information. We will always do our best to serve our clients and to provide their pet(s) with the highest quality care. Where your pet's health is our passion.
A microscopic parasite called Toxoplasma gondii (T. gondii) is responsible for the disease called Toxoplasmosis. The disease is most commonly associated with cats, although it can affect many mammals, including humans. Cats, however, are the only known hosts for the parasite, meaning that a cat body is the only place where the parasite can reproduce eggs. Generally, cats infected with the parasites will not exhibit any serious signs of illness. Cats with suppressed immune symptoms, such as those with feline leukemia virus or feline immunodeficiency virus, can become very ill. Symptoms can include fever, loss of appetite, and lethargy and can sometimes lead to pneumonia. A veterinarian can make an accurate diagnosis of the disease.
Toxoplasmosis is difficult to diagnose in cats because the signs can be so variable. Blood tests can indicate whether a cat has ever been exposed to the organism, although past exposure does not necessarily mean that there is current infection. We strongly recommend regular check-ups, and if you haven’t brought your pet to a veterinarian recently there is no better time than now. Come to 3414 S. Hwy 97 or call 918.245-VETS (8387) to schedule a check-up today. Where your pet's health is our passion.
DOGS – MORE THAN JUST BEST FRIENDS
For years dogs have been helping humans with important jobs, jobs that people themselves sometimes aren’t even qualified to do, like sniff for bombs or illegal substances, help visually impaired people see, and help people with other disabilities function with day-to-day living. Now, some working breeds like labs and poodles have a new specialty—sniffing out peanuts. Dogs can detect miniscule traces of peanut and some other nuts in foods. The skill can save the life of a person with severe peanut allergy. The dogs, often shelter dogs with an otherwise dim future, are being trained much in the same way as other service dogs. When adopting a peanut dog, the owners are taught special commands.
Breast cancer is a highly documented disease. But what many people don’t know is that breast cancer isn’t just a human affliction. Cats and dogs can be diagnosed with the disease as well, except in the animal world, it’s usually referred to as mammary cancer. The most frightening difference between dogs and cats that get ill with the disease is that when our feline friends are diagnosed, it’s almost always malignant and often fatal. There is strong evidence suggesting that early spaying may contribute to a decreased risk of mammary cancer. However, as with all cancers, early detection is the key. When caught early, the tumor can usually be removed, so cat owners, keep up that belly patting!
Pet owners should be sure their cats get regular, thorough veterinary checkups. Owners can perform their own mini checkups by feeling for any lumps or bumps, particularly in the mammary area. Early detection and treatment is very important in the successful treatment and outcome of mammary cancer in cats. We’re located at 3414 S. Hwy 97, where we are happy to advise you on what steps you should take. If you have questions regarding animal care don’t hesitate to call 918.245-VETS (8387). Where your pet's health is our passion.
Most of the time, a dog’s “animal instincts” will keep it from choking. But it’s still important to know what to do in an emergency situation. First, be sure that the dog is choking because an unnecessary Heimlich Maneuver can cause serious injury. A choking dog will be panicking, clawing at its face and making motions that seem like coughing with no sound coming out. Open the dog’s mouth, and look for a foreign object, being very careful to avoid the tiny bones at the back of the throat which are sometimes mistaken for chicken bones. If you cannot remove the object, bear hug the dog with fists below the ribcage. Administer two or three sharp thrusts at a time.
Having "something stuck in the throat" is a common problem in pets. Due to their curious nature and indiscriminate eating habits, dogs and cats can get all kinds of items stuck in their mouth. Large pieces of food, bone, balls, toys, wood, cloth, metal and even fish hooks have been removed from the mouths of dogs and cats. We’re located at 3414 S. Hwy 97, where we truly care about animals. We hope you entrust your pets’ welfare to us. Questions? Call 918.245-VETS (8387). Where your pet's health is our passion.
Sometimes cats bite and scratch, there’s no getting around it. Cats, though domesticated, are predators at heart. There are reasons for biting and scratching, and knowing them helps owners differentiate between normal behavior and a red flag. Cats may bite or scratch when playing, which is easily correctable. Cats can have too much of a good thing; some felines luxuriate in a good stroking session only to suddenly bite the hand that pats them. This is within the bounds of normal behavior and a sign that the cat has become overstimulated. But if a cat suddenly becomes aggressive and exhibits behavior that is out of character, it’s time for a trip to the vet to rule out illness.
Feline aggression can take many forms and be disruptive and dangerous in a household. Feline aggression is often treatable after a good history helps identify a diagnosis. Then a treatment plan can be made to help integrate cats to other cats or people and minimize further aggression. We have years of experience, and we pride ourselves on our education. We use this knowledge to provide fantastic care for your pet(s). We invite you to come to 3414 S. Hwy 97 and introduce us to your pet. To schedule a check-up call 918.245-VETS (8387). Where your pet's health is our passion.
Plenty of people enjoy soy as a vegetarian alternative protein source. But are those foods good for pets? Feeding dogs foods that include corn, soy, or wheat might not be a good idea. Many dogs are sensitive to the vegetable-based products commonly used in dog foods. Dogs that are allergic will have itchy, flaky, red skin. They will scratch and bite their skin until sores and bald patches appear, and their coats may become dull. Dogs with allergies can have digestive and respiratory problems as well. Check the ingredients on the dog food package for potential allergens before purchasing. Any dog that is showing signs of discomfort should be checked by a veterinarian to rule out other skin problems.
Do you suspect that your dog has allergies? While some allergies are directly related to seasons others occur regardless of the time of year, as well as certain foods. It is important that you pay attention to any changes that occur in your dog’s behavior. We recommend that you get your dog checked regularly, by an animal expert. If you have questions regarding your pets, including questions on canine allergies, please come to 3414 S. Hwy 97, or call 918.245-VETS (8387) today. Where your pet's health is our passion.
THE SPECIAL NEEDS OF AGING CATS
Though we would all love our feline friends to remain kittens forever, there comes a time when the needs of aging cats must be addressed. Older cats may need less food and can pack on the pounds if they eat too much. They tend to prefer a switch to moister, softer foods, and they should be encouraged to drink more to prevent dehydration. And just because a cat is getting older doesn’t mean he or she gets a free ride on the physical fitness train. Senior cats should be encouraged to play, not lie around, although exercise should be gentle. Older cats might need help reaching their favorite spots, and they can suffer from cognitive impairment. They should have bi-annual visits to the veterinarian.
As we age, cats included, things don't work or feel quite like they used to. There are new aches and pains. We feel sluggish and tire easily. It takes longer to recover from minor traumas or illness. We get stiff and lose flexibility. It seems like every body part just doesn't want to work anymore. We take the health of pets very seriously, using our knowledge and experience to help every pet we care for lead a good life. We’re located at 3414 S. Hwy 97, we urge you to have your dog receive a medical check-up regularly. To schedule an appointment call 918.245-VETS (8387). Where your pet's health is our passion.
DOGS AND CATS WITH FOOD ALLERGIES
Just because animals love to poke around in forbidden places looking for yummy tidbits to munch on doesn’t mean they can properly digest everything. Some cats and dogs have sensitivities to certain foods, and some have true allergies. The difference in symptoms can be likened to the difference in symptoms that humans have. Sensitivities usually cause upset stomach, vomiting, or diarrhea. Allergies manifest with excessively itchy skin especially around the ears, anus, muzzle, forelegs, and feet. A veterinarian will examine a pet with allergy symptoms to rule out worms, parasites, or other illnesses that could be causing the problem. Fortunately, once the source of the allergy is pinpointed and removed from the animal’s diet, the symptoms will resolve themselves.
The food allergy is one of the itchiest conditions known to cat and dog. Itchy skin in the small animal is often more than just a minor annoyance. We’re located at 3414 S. Hwy 97, we’re always here to help with your pets! If you are allergic, but are really determined to have a pet, you may be able to limit your symptoms by reducing your exposure to allergens. Call 918.245-VETS (8387) with any questions, we’ll be happy to help. Where your pet's health is our passion.
Cats will meow for a wide variety of reasons. Cat owners know that different-sounding meows mean different things. Cats will often meow when their humans return from work or school. This is their way of greeting. Cats will often meow in a loud, demanding way when they are hungry or would like to go outside or come back in. An insistent meow could mean that something is blocking the litter box or otherwise causing irritation or discomfort. Yowling could indicate a cat in heat or in pain. Hissing and growling indicate a cat that would prefer to be left alone. Pay attention to the subtle variances between meows, and learn what the cat is trying to say.
Cats have 4 different meanings for “meow”. If you listen carefully you can hear that each meow is different. We recommend that you pay close attention to your cat so that you may notice any difference in behavior. If you do happen to see something that may warrant a visit to the vet, be sure to bring your cat to 3414 S. Hwy 97. We truly care. To schedule an appointment, or to have your questions answered, call 918.245-VETS (8387). Where your pet's health is our passion.
SHOULD DOGS SHARE THE FAMILY BED?
There are two schools of thought on whether or not dogs should share the bed with their humans. The “no” school argues that, for one, it’s unhygienic if Fido has been traipsing through flea and tick zones looking for yucky treasures to bring home. Sharing the bed can interfere with sleep and intimacy, and it can position dogs at the perfect height for biting the faces of small children. The “yes” school stands by their stance that there’s just something nice about sleeping with Fido. Single people might feel safer. Some people who have trouble sleeping insist that the rhythmic breathing and warmth of a dog keeps them asleep through the night. The bottom line is, it’s a personal choice.
Remember that the bedroom, and especially the bed, are the most comfortable and desirable locations in the house, and belong to the leader. Your dog's presence is a privilege, and he must not forget that. You know your dog better than anyone. We recommend regular checkups for all animals. We are true animal lovers, and want nothing but the best for your pets. We invite you to call 918.245-VETS (8387) to make an appointment. We are located at 3414 S. Hwy 97. Where your pet's health is our passion.
CAN I LEASH-TRAIN MY CAT?
The outdoor world is full of hazards that seem to be waiting for cats to wander into. On the other hand, indoor cats might get a little stir crazy from time to time yearning for the great outdoors. A compromise may be to leash-train the cat. It may sound silly, and it will take lots of patience, but leash-walking can be a rewarding experience for animal and human alike. Find a harness that won’t slip off, and let the cat get used to it for a few minutes each day until the harness is familiar. This process can take months, so don’t lose heart! Before exploring the great outdoors, verify that the cat’s vaccinations are up to date.
If taken out at approximately the same time every day, your cat will learn that this is the only time he can go out and there's no point in pestering you at other times. Your feline friend can join you for walks around the neighborhood, picnics, even window-shopping. Trips away from home (e.g. the vet) will also be easier for you and less traumatic for your cat. The benefits are numerous. We will always make time for you and your pet, and pledge to go above and beyond your expectations. Bring your pet to us at 3414 S. Hwy 97 today. Call 918.245-VETS (8387) to schedule an appointment. We provide comprehensive care for animal companions and their families. Where your pet's health is our passion.
Although many people have been led to believe that dogs see only in black and white, this may not be true. Unless there is a talking dog to consult, however, humans may never know exactly what colors Fido sees when he’s chasing the cat across the yard. Yet, scientists can make a best guess. First of all, dogs see about four times as well as humans do, but they don’t see in the same way. While humans are capable of seeing all the colors on the spectrum, research indicates that dogs are missing some colors like red, green, and orange. Some think that dogs see the world in shades of yellows, blues, browns, and grays.
We understand the strong bond between human and pet so we care for each patient as if they were our own. One of our goals is to educate each pet owner on the best ways to prevent disease and detect problems early. We have plans for all stages of life to help your pet live a long happy life from the early years through the senior years. We tailor each pet’s treatment plan to suit their individual history, environment and lifestyle. We recommend if you feel that your pet may require professional attention please come to 3414 S. Hwy 97 or call 918.245-VETS (8387) right away. Where your pet's health is our passion.
KEEP KITTY OFF THE COUNTER!
Cats will be cats. Having a natural affinity for heights and a love for the yummy, lingering odors of last night’s dinner, cats find counter surfing a natural activity. But jumping onto the counters can be more than just unhygienic—there’s the potential for serious injury if the cat jumps on a hot stove burner or lands on a sharp object. One suggestion is to find another place to marinate the meat. Otherwise, try using sticky tape or noisy pot lids to deter the cat from cruising the countertop. It’s also OK to use a quick mist from a water bottle or a blast from an air horn when Kitty is mid-jump, but only sparingly.
If you are like most other cat lovers, you consider your cat as a member of your family and already have developed a deep bond. The first thing you need to do is to place yourself way down on the floor, so you can see tempting hazards from your cat's viewpoint. Look around and make a list. We strongly recommend regular check-ups, and if you haven’t brought your pet to a veterinarian recently there is no better time than now. A check-up is the perfect opportunity to discuss any actions you should take on behalf of your pet. Come to 3414 S. Hwy 97 or call 918.245-VETS (8387) to schedule a check-up today. Where your pet's health is our passion.
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