Health Tips

February 21 2022

Beyond Brushing: What you need to know about dental health

Of course, pet owners should brush their dog or cat’s teeth to prevent abscesses, jaw damage, and heart disease – in addition to simply keeping them healthy. This is also the first step in avoiding tooth loss and systemic infections.

There are other methods in addition to brushing teeth for those dogs who resist or aren’t particularly in favor of brushing their teeth.

Dog tooth wipes can be an easier option. Use them by rubbing the wipe against your pet’s teeth, but just know they will not be as effective in the crevices between teeth.

Dog dental treats. These specifically remove plaque buildup and will clean your pet’s mouth, which also freshens up their bad breath. Try different sizes, shapes, and flavors!

Dental treats will keep your pet’s mouth clean in addition to exercising their jaw muscles. Dog chews occupy your dog and keep them from chewing on other things but also benefit their oral health as well. By gnawing, your pet will scrape the plaque off its teeth. Some chews contain vitamins or enzymes for better dietary health. For pets who don’t need the extra calories, look for rubber or nylon toys.

Their diet also plays a factor – dry food (kibble) is less likely to become stuck between teeth, especially with larger kibbles. The friction of eating will clean the enamel and strengthen teeth and jaw muscles.

Regular pet checkups at your veterinarian should also include dental cleanings. Pets with anxiety can be anesthetized so they are more comfortable. Check their teeth yourself visually by lifting their lips and opening their mouth. You’ll be able to quickly notice any sores or plaque buildup. You can work with your pet to get them accustomed to having toothbrushes and your fingers in their mouth for oral checks, especially if you start young.

woman with curly hair holding a white dog

December 2 2021

Dogs & Hypothyroidism: What Owners Should Know

Dogs, Health Tips, Pet Care

What is hypothyroidism, and how do you diagnose your dog? Hypothyroidism occurs when the thyroid gland doesn’t produce enough hormones. While easy to diagnose and treat, it can be overlooked without regular vet checkups. The cause remains unclear; however, with some vigilance and care, you can manage this with your dog.

The thyroid gland, like in humans, is butterfly-shaped and found in the neck next to the windpipe. It’s part of the endocrine system, and the hormones it produces make cells function normally through metabolism. Simply put, metabolism refers to how fast or slow cells burn food so cells turn it into energy. From there, it enables your dog’s body to circulate blood, contract muscles, breathe, and ensures their nerves and brain function properly.

Symptoms. Most commonly, this affects dogs between four and ten years of age and can be related to autoimmune disorders which shrink or inflame the thyroid tissue. Hypothyroidism will affect major parts of their body, from gastrointestinal to nervous and circulatory systems and possibly the reproductive system as well.

Look for these signals:

► Excessive tiredness, dullness, or depression
► Abrupt weight gain
► Infections of the skin
► Seizures
► Intolerance to cold
► Excessive shedding, dandruff, or a dull coat
► Uncharacteristically-long heat cycles for unspayed females
► Weakness or neuromuscular problems
► Stiff walking
► Loud breathing

Risk factors. Although there don’t appear to be any genetic causes, some larger breeds tend to be more likely to contract hypothyroidism. Spaying and neutering have many benefits, but one small drawback is this seems to slightly increase the risk of developing this disease.

Treatment options. With proper treatment, your dog will return to their normal energy level and personality! An inexpensive oral supplement will mimic the effect of the gland, but it’s imperative to balance the amount. And then follow up with proper nutrition.

November 23 2021

Identifying Diabetes in Your Pet

Cats, Dogs, Health Tips, Pet Care

Similar to humans, dogs and cats can become diabetic with the inability to produce the insulin required to regulate blood sugar, but what are the indicators of diabetes to watch for? Here are some signs and when to contact your veterinarian.

Overweight animals have a greater chance of becoming diabetic. Read our post on ideal body weight to learn how to manage your pet’s weight. For overweight pets, your vet will have tips on how to safely adjust their food intake and increase their exercise for optimum health and to avoid diabetes.

However, older pets also are more susceptible to diabetes, typically emerging in dogs between seven and nine years of age. Related to the above point about their weight, older dogs especially reduce their exercise which can translate to additional pounds, increased glucose levels, and insufficient insulin levels. Some breeds are more prone to this disease, though, in addition to unspayed females.

One of the most common indicators is excessive, constant thirst which makes them urinate more frequently, often in the house or their bed. Take note of how much water they’re drinking, but don’t reduce it as they need that to stay hydrated. Pet owners sometimes expect a urinary tract infection to be the cause of the accidents. Regardless, when owners see changes like this, contact your vet for a checkup.

Is your pet sleeping more than is typical? Lethargy could also be a key indicator – the tiredness is called “diabetes fatigue”.

Has your pet lost weight recently? Dramatic and sudden weight loss could also point to an issue of which your vet should be aware. Since the body can’t access the glucose from food (because it stays in the bloodstream instead of going to cells), your pet will likely show greater hunger than is typical, combined with not gaining weight. Take care of overweight pets who lose weight quickly though, as it might be due to health problems and not simply becoming healthier.

Early detection and intervention are key to keeping your pet healthy and improving the quality of their life – as well as avoiding diabetic problems with eyesight and blindness or other infections.

September 18 2021

Who invented vaccines?

Health Tips

Most people will remember learning about Louis Pasteur and his vaccine, which transformed public health by ensuring the ability to curtail the spread of rabies from animals. But who invented vaccines for your pets?

In 1872, Dr. Charles F. Guillou made drawings of his smallpox vaccine development, using cows on his farm. Originally from Philadelphia, he served as a naval surgeon, carefully keeping diaries of his scientific and diplomatic journeys. One of those included participating in the Wilkes Expedition which explored Antarctica, Oregon’s coast, and those parts of the Pacific Ocean. One of his naval journeys brought him into contact with Hawaii’s King Kamehameha IV which led to him opening multiple hospitals there and then serving as the Court Physician.

But it was his journals and illustrations which provides some insight for us into how he conducted vaccine harvesting and other medical processes. Animals, especially large ones like horses, produced the antibodies necessary to develop serums for human vaccines. Hence, Dr. Guillou’s using cows to harvest the materials needed.

Though this particular one was a vaccine for humans, it likely paved the way for Henry Martin, MD who brought animal vaccines into practice, due to an epidemic. when he emigrated from Europe, due to an epidemic.

And Louis Pasteur invented what is credited as the first animal vaccine in 1879, for chicken cholera, an infection caused by bacteria. By injecting a live bacteria culture into the chickens, he observed and recorded how the illness developed. However, doing this resulted in only mildly expressed symptoms but surviving. He then followed that with one for sheep anthrax in 1881, and finally, the one which made him the most famous: his inoculation against rabies in 1884. The rabies vaccine was first given to animals but its success quickly transitioned into human use for those bitten by rabid dogs.

These progressions in veterinary medicine led to government-supported research in efforts to better control animal disease. This was vital to farmers in order to not lose their livestock and, as a result, their income – and for the public to not lose food sources. However, another result was then using vaccines as a revenue stream for dealers and medical clerks to vaccinate animals, creating a foundation of availability, even though Dr. Martin seemed to bristle at the competition.

All this to bring your pet the vaccinations which keep them healthy and prevent the spread of disease!

September 6 2021

Alternative Medicine for Your Pet

Health Tips, Pet Care

Beyond getting prescriptions for your dog or cat’s health, what other options do you have?

CBD Oil. There are a number of ailments that might be treatable with CBD oil. It can reduce pain or inflammation. It might reduce the occurrence of seizures, and if your dog or cat suffers from anxiety, CBD oil can provide some relief. It can give them a sense of relaxation as well as better mobility and joint function.

There are several methods for how to give this to your pet. Rub some on the inside of their mouth. Squeeze the dropper filled with the right amount, determined by their weight, and then follow with a treat to ensure they swallow. Using a porous treat will allow it to absorb in; then simply give your dog the treat, after it soaks in. Or you can mix it into their food.

Your cat might be curious and lick the dropper as you squeeze it into their mouth, or you can drip some on their paw, which they will proceed to lick clean.

Aromatherapy. A different approach uses essential oils, such as tea tree oil. Ylang-ylang, eucalyptus, citrus, and pine oils are dangerous for pets though and should be carefully avoided. However, these present another option for addressing your dog or cat’s stress or anxiety.

Does your pet get motion sick in the car? Try an aroma therapy specifically for this! Look for oils that are 100% pure, which will come in small, concentrated amounts. Look for suppliers (not multi-level marketing companies) who can answer your questions and package in glass bottles made from cobalt, amber, or violet glass. This prevents the oil from degrading over time. You can even explore how they are grown, to ensure environmental consciousness. And genuine oils will also contain both the Latin and the common name, as well as the country of origin, extraction date, and lot number.

Applying them can be as simple as just pet your cat or dog! Essential oils are absorbed through the skin (dilute them first with a base like almond, avocado, or coconut oil).

As always, consult with your veterinarian first, before using anything of a medicinal nature on your pet.

Disclaimer
*Nothing in this content should be construed as medical advice from The Pet Professionals LLC, and we always encourage pet owners to fully and openly discuss their pet’s health and any concerns with their veterinarian.

Positive veterinarian doctor communicating with cute dog's owner in medical office

February 25 2021

Why Should I get my Female Pet Spayed?

Cats, Dogs, Farm Animals, Ferrets, Health Tips, Kittens, Pet Care, Rabbits

Pet overpopulation troubles many places around the country, especially from stray animals. How can you work to reduce this problem? By spaying or neutering your cat or dog. It’s a simple solution, but some people question why it’s necessary.

My cat is an exclusively indoor pet. Pets tend to be escape artists, sneaking out the door underfoot. They can then become difficult to find and if not spayed and in heat, might find a partner to breed. Owners then end up with unwanted kittens to feed, provide veterinary care for, euthanize, or give away. This also increases their tendency for becoming injured from cars or fights with other animals. Side note: this is also why rabies vaccinations are important, even for indoor pets.

Health risks for unspayed female pets. As pets age, reproductive organs also age, bringing with them more medical issues. For female cats and dogs, risks for uterine infections and breast cancer increase exponentially. In 50% of female dogs and 90% of female cats, these diseases will ultimately claim their lives.

Other issues with intact female pets. When female dogs and cats are in heat, they become vocal and can urinate more frequently than typical (marking). This time lasts, on average, for four to five days out of every three weeks. You’ll also need hygiene products during their menstrual cycles such as diapers and pads, and she might need to urinate more frequently.

When is the best time to spay? To avoid unwanted behaviors developing, most vets advise to spay prior to your dog or cat’s first heat; however, older pets benefit as well and will live a longer, healthier life.

What about the cost? Unplanned veterinary expenses add up fast. You’ll also need additional food, toys, pet beds, and yearly checkups, potential surgical procedures, and ongoing vaccinations. A simple spay is far less costly than all of those for the lives of multiple other pets. In addition, check into local county resources which might offer them at a lower cost.

Myths about spaying and neutering. A spay procedure will not make them fat! Overweight pets are a product of overeating and infrequent exercise. Monitor food intake and give them plenty of activity.

Can’t I use this to teach my children responsibility or the miracle of birth? There are a multitude of other ways to do both of these, and without putting additional strain on your household from more pets and the associated costs. Look to videos, books, and online resources instead.

February 4 2021

Dental Disease in Pets

Cats, Dogs, Health Tips, Kittens, Pet Care

As with people, taking care of dental health also benefits your dog or cat. Yes, pets can have dental disease, where plaque, bacteria, and tartar build-up on the teeth and get trapped by the gums. This causes severe pain and infection, but addressing it early is key.

What does dental disease look like? First and foremost, bad breath – and no, this is not normal. Teeth can also show yellow tartar buildup, and gums might be swollen and red. Your veterinarian should include dental evaluations in annual exams. Pets with advanced dental disease might display irritability, lethargy, and a decreased appetite.

How is dental disease diagnosed? X-rays reveal what might not be apparent when simply looking at your pet. Using anesthesia, your vet will take radiographs to ascertain the extent and how to treat it. Then they will thoroughly clean your pet’s teeth in a safe and comfortable way, removing the plaque from beneath the gum line where it thrives.

Why use anesthesia? Many pet owners reject dental procedures due to a fear of anesthesia; however, your pet will be awake and very likely agitated at the lights, instruments, and being held down. Using anesthesia means your vet can safely and effectively complete the procedure without the risk of causing your pet additional stress.

How do you care for your pet after the procedure? Afterward, your vet might prescribe a numbing medication so your pet can recover without being in constant pain. In addition, some simple at-home care will ensure oral health and reduce the need for surgeries later on.

How can you prevent dental disease? For newly-acquired pets, your vet should begin to address oral health at the first visit, watching as puppies’ or kittens’ adult teeth emerge and addressing any issues early. Regardless of your pet’s age or when they joined your family, brushing their teeth regularly is a big part of preventative care.

Look for pet toothpaste, not human ones which contain ingredients toxic to animals. Pair this with pet food which preserves oral health, especially those approved by the Veterinary Oral Health Council (VOHC). Too-hard products like synthetic bones might actually cause tooth fractures. And keep up with your pet’s yearly checkups! In this way, you can actively prevent problems and expenses which compound over time, the longer they go unnoticed or undetected.

January 19 2021

Is My Pet Overweight – and What do I do?

Cats, Health Tips

In this pandemic world where adults and children work (or school) from home, pets might get more food than in a more normative situation. Yes, pets can get overweight, and yes, like humans, obesity causes health problems for them. How do you know if your dog or cat has an ideal body type or needs to trim down a little?

Pets have genetics as well. Some breeds tend more toward slimness or toward a heftier body shape. Simply put, feel around the spine and ribs – you should feel both, with just a thin layer of fat between the skin and bones. Your pet should have a noticeable waist behind their ribcage with a minimal fat pad on the stomach. If you can’t feel their ribs at all, you have an overweight pet.

To check their weight at home, use your scale. For smaller pets, as with babies, weigh yourself alone first. Then pick them up, and subtract the difference, making sure to use the same scale consistently for best results.

However, feeding them too much people food or treats will put on the weight, despite genetics. Portion control, and using primarily pet food, will keep their meals in check. For questions, talk to your vet about how much your pet should eat and how many meals each day.

For those pets who need to slim down, track their meal, snack, and treat intake very carefully each day. This includes what they get from petsitters, neighbors, and other family members. To minimize treats, use healthier alternatives. Decide how many your pet will receive in a day, and communicate to anyone else who needs to know. Then stick to it!

Ask your vet about reducing meals by a certain percentage, and also about how many calories your pet needs each day to arrive at their ideal body weight. But be prepared for begging! And hold firm to your resolve. Alternately, look to diet pet food which will contain higher fiber, making them feel fuller without additional calories.

And exercise your pet, especially dogs, more to increase their activity level. As with pet owners, the combination of diet and exercise typically works for pets. Take it slowly, at 1-2% weight loss per week.

If, after all these things, your pet still isn’t coming down to their ideal body weight, consult your vet to have tests run. A low thyroid level or hormonal imbalances could factor into the equation.

December 8 2020

Holiday Traditions: Keeping Your Pet Safe

Christmas, Dogs, Health Tips, Holidays

The holidays include many exciting things, from decorations to treats, and your pet can enjoy the season too! Here are some things to know about seasonal plants, plus we’ve included some of our ideas for creating holiday traditions with your pet.

Although not as deadly as once thought, poinsettias should still be placed out of reach due to their mild toxicity. The sap irritates mouth and throat tissues, causing discomfort with nausea and perhaps vomiting if ingested, but rarely any fatal symptoms. More severe reactions likely occur due to pesticide treatment on the leaves.

We all know to take care with poinsettias, but what other plants should you watch out for?

Place dried or fresh holly and mistletoe – the leaves and the berries – well out of reach as their toxicity levels exceed poinsettias’. Eating lilies or daffodils will result in adverse and even life-threatening reactions, from bulbs as well as flowers and leaves. The Christmas cactus, though not toxic in itself, can upset your pet’s stomach and intestines, in addition to injuries from the spines themselves.

Christmas trees, especially firs, contain oils that can cause excessive drooling or vomiting. The needles, if ingested, can lead to gastrointestinal punctures or obstruction. Covering the repository for your tree’s water will also keep your pet from becoming ill as the water grows bacteria and mold. Even a few laps can make your pet sick.

Aside from keeping your pet from chewing your plants, what can you do so they enjoy the holiday season with you?

Holiday pet outfits, like matching sweaters, can infuse some festive spirit into your home and activities. Costumes transform pet photos into keepsakes and ornaments easily – and many photographers will do photoshoots or create holiday videos for you to keep or share.

Host a (virtual) holiday pet cookie exchange! Get together with other pet owners to make treats together over a video chat, then exchange them in a socially-distanced manner, packaged in festive tins. Then have a follow-up video chat to let all the pets sample the treats at the same time.

November 10 2020

Caring for Senior Pets in Their Golden Years

Dogs, Health Tips, Pet Care

As pets age, their needs change, and this can include their diet, their activity level, and their health. What are some things you can expect – and how can you continue to love your pet through these challenges?

Joints become stiffer as animals become more advanced in years which can result in discomfort and pain. This pain might mean they exercise less frequently, which can lead to becoming overweight. And being overweight causes a cycle of more pain, reduced activity, and other health problems.

Your senior pet might have more difficulty with stairs. Dog ramps can make it easier to walk on and off porches or get into or out of the car. Lift harnesses can also allow you to assist them with getting up and down. However, have your vet check for arthritis or other medicines which will allow your pet more freedom of movement. An orthopedic bed will make naptime more comfortable for them.

Playful puppies turn into lethargic older dogs who will wear out much faster. Follow your dog’s lead by watching their energy level and make play sessions shorter with time to rest. Senior dogs should still take walks to keep their minds and joints healthy, but adjust with shorter outings and slow the pace.

Pets’ dietary needs also change with their age. Just as puppies and kittens eat special food formulated for their needs, senior pets also have specific nutrient needs and should eat an age-appropriate diet. Keep their weight under control and tailor their diet to meet their health concerns such as heart or kidney disease. The lower fat content increased nutrients, and reduced-sodium in senior dog food will benefit dogs with kidney disease. For any dramatic weight loss, make an appointment and ask your vet about potential health issues.

Older pets require more medical care than a once-yearly checkup. How much? Ask your vet how frequently you should bring them in. In addition to vaccinations and maintaining their oral health, you might notice changes to their temperament, eyes becoming foggy, and a need for potty pads if they can’t make it outside in time.

For assistance with the expenses, look into nonprofits that specialize in caring for senior and disabled pets. Mostly, continue to love and care for your pet, adjusting to their needs to make them comfortable.