Can My Dog Eat That? A Veterinarian's Take on the Internet's Most Asked Foods for Dogs
As a dog owner, it's natural to wonder about the safety of sharing your favorite foods with your furry friend. The internet is full of questions about what dogs can and cannot eat. To help clear up the confusion, we've compiled a list of the top foods people frequently ask about and whether they are safe for your dog.
Why Indoor Cats Need Vaccines and Preventative Care, Too!
As a cat owner, you might believe that keeping your feline friend indoors shields them from all dangers and health issues. While indoor cats are generally safer from many outdoor hazards, they still require vaccines and preventative care to ensure a long, healthy life. Let's dive into why vaccines and regular veterinary check-ups are essential for indoor cats and explore the core and optional vaccines recommended for our indoor companions.
Feline Baselines & Blood Work: How Knowing Your Cat’s “Normal” Can Lead to Better Health Outcomes
Despite the misconception of cats being aloof and solitary, owners often have a deep bond with their cats, and prioritize their health, happiness, and well-being above all else. One essential aspect of prioritizing your cat’s health is understanding what constitutes a healthy baseline for your cat and how regular blood work can provide invaluable insights into their current health status, as well as what’s on the horizon for their health.
Avoiding Water, Sand, and Algae Risks that Can Put a Damper on Your Dog’s Summer Fun
While swimming and running around at the shore can be great exercise for dogs and present some memorable bonding opportunities for dog’s and their owners, they don’t come without their risks.
Maximizing Canine Health: The Importance of Lab Work Through Your Dog's Life
From the playful puppy years to the golden senior moments, dogs, like us, go through various life stages, each with its unique health needs and challenges. As a veterinarian, I tell my clients that we have to look at lab work as a window into the intricate workings of their dog's health, offering insights that can guide preventative care, early detection of diseases, and tailored treatment strategies.
The Secret to Handling Fraidy Cats and Nervous Doggos This July 4th
Barbecues, fireworks, and other activities are Fourth of July staples. But if you are a pet parent, all of the festivities might be more stressful than fun. Fireworks often trigger intense fear and anxiety — especially in dogs. Barbecues can be anxiety-inducing (and dangerous for dogs), too. They are often noisy, and many pets just don't enjoy all of the unfamiliar people, smells, and sounds.
The Secret to Dog Training: Why Positive Reinforcement Works But Punishment Doesn't
It’s a hard concept to digest, but it’s been proven time and time again that dogs respond best to positive reinforcement over punishment – so get ready for extra praise, plenty of ear scratches, and a stockpile of treats if your dog needs training or has some behavioral corrections to make. We know that training a dog and, in particular, a puppy can be challenging and even frustrating but, as veterinarians, we also know that yelling and berating versus positive reinforcement is not going to work.