Tag Archives: pet treats

Dog Care, General Care, General Health

Causes Of Hot Spots In Dogs

Have you ever discovered how frustrating it is to not be able to properly scratch an itch? This is an ongoing problem for dogs. One issue that can make Fido quite itchy is hot spots. These are basically itchy, inflamed sores. While they can happen any time, they are particularly common at this time of year. Hot spots are treatable, though the treatment course needed will depend on the underlying cause. Hot spots can be caused by many different things. A Roanoke, VA vet lists some common ones below.

Bug Bites

It’s probably no surprise to find flea bites at the top of this list. Fido can also be bitten by ants, flies, mosquitoes, and, well, any other biting insect. Keep up with your four-legged friend’s parasite control products!

Infections

Skin infections are another possible reason for hot spots. Ear infections can also lead to hot spots on the head and neck.

Anal Gland Issues

As you probably know, dogs have scent glands under their tails. Normally, these are expressed naturally as Fido relieves himself. However, sometimes issues do develop. This can be very uncomfortable for your canine buddy! Your vet may recommend anal gland expression, which must be done by a professional.

Allergies

Allergies are another common culprit. Your vet would need to run some tests to determine what your furry pal is reacting to: this could be anything from ingredients in his shampoo to pollen to something in his food.

Poor Grooming

If Fido’s fur is matted, dirty, and/or greasy, it will soon start causing problems with his skin. An unkempt coat can be very hot and itchy! This is particularly problematic with pooches that have very thick and/or long fur. Keep up with your canine buddy’s grooming needs.

Compulsive Behavior

Itching and hot spots can be a sort of chicken and egg which-came-first situation, in that sometimes pups cause hot spots by worrying at their skin. This is often, but not always, caused by medical issues. In some cases, dogs will lick or bite themselves as a compulsive, self-soothing behavior due to loneliness, boredom, stress, anxiety, or depression. A good diet, toys and playtime, comfy beds, and lots of love and attention are all important to Fido’s health and happiness.

Do you know or suspect that your pooch has hot spots? Contact us, your Roanoke, VA animal clinic, today!

Cat Care, Dog Care, General Care, General Health

Signs That Your Pet Is Overheating

Summer is here! At this time of year, overheating is a big concern for those of us in the animal care industries. Fluffy and Fido are already wearing fur coats, and they can’t cool down by sweating. Pets can become dangerously hot in just a few minutes in scorching weather, so you’ll need to pay close attention to the potential warning signs. A local Roanoke, VA vet lists some of them below.

Panting

This is usually the first thing you’ll notice. It’s not unusual for Fido to pant a bit if it’s warm, or if he just chased a squirrel around the yard, but he shouldn’t continually be panting. This is also a red flag in kitties. With brachycephalic pets, who can easily go into respiratory distress, panting should be treated as an immediate concern.

Drool

While some pups are a bit slobbery, you should take note any time Fido is drooling heavily. Thick or ropy drool is also a cause for concern. Drooling in cats is also a red flag.

Reduced Urine Output

This is a sign of dehydration, as it clearly indicates that your pet needs more water. Dark urine is another warning sign.

Vomiting/Diarrhea

These things can be indicative of many different health conditions, but they are also potential indications that a pet is dehydrated or has heat exhaustion or heat stroke.

Disorientation

If Fido seems to be dizzy, or is stumbling around, you’ll need to act quickly. This is a huge red flag!

Dehydration

Dehydration goes hand-in-paw with overheating in pets. Some things to look for would be dry eyes, fatigue, sunken eyes, and the dark or reduced urine output we mentioned earlier. Skin pinch tests can help with some animals, but it really depends on their skin and coat type.

Discolored Gums

Your fuzzy pal’s gums are an indication of their overall condition, and can signal heat exhaustion and dehydration. Dark, bright, gray, purple, or pale gums are all red flags.

Trembling

Heat exhaustion can also cause pets to have muscle tremors. This may just look like shivering or shaking, but is another sign that your furry friend is in trouble.

Lethargy

This is another serious indication that something is wrong. If your four-legged friend seems weak and/or listless, they need medical attention immediately.

As your Roanoke, VA animal clinic, we’re here for you. Call us anytime!

Cat Care, Dog Care, General Health

Getting Your Pet Back to a Healthy Weight

Take a glance at your pet—are they looking a bit pudgy? Nearly half of all domesticated cats and dogs are overweight! If your pet could stand to shed a few pounds, use these tips from a Roanoke, VA veterinarian to return them to a healthy weight:

See the Vet

First, set up an appointment to have your pet examined at the vet’s office. You don’t want to start adjusting your pet’s portion size or changing their diet without consulting the professionals first! Your veterinarian can tell you whether or not your pet is, in fact, obese. Then, you’ll work together to create a tailored weight-loss plan.

Adjust Portion Size

Many times, all it takes for a pet to start losing weight is some control over their portion size. A huge number of pets become obese simply from over-eating! Never free-feed your pet, which means leaving food out at all times for your pet to munch on as they wish; instead, ask your veterinarian about a portion measurement that suits your pet’s needs. Give your pet that amount of food at mealtimes, and remove any uneaten kibble after about 20 minutes.

Feed a Great Diet

Is your pet’s food itself up to par? If your companion is receiving a budget food that contains a lot of empty calories, they’re probably packing on the pounds. It’s time to upgrade your pet’s diet to a premium food that suits their age, size, and breed. This way, they’ll receive all of the essential nutrients for good health without consuming too many calories and becoming overweight.

Exercise Regularly

Of course, no weight-loss plan comes without exercise. You’ll have to get your pet moving on a regular basis in order to help them burn off that excess body fat and return to a healthy weight. Go on brisk walks through your neighborhood, or romp around inside with a favorite toy. However you do it, make sure your pet gets several minutes of physical activity per day, several times a day.

Tips on Treats

Don’t give your pet a lot of fatty table scraps, and don’t overdo it when it comes to pet treats. Use treats as rewards for good behavior, or as training tools—giving your pet treats for no real reason isn’t healthy.

Does your pet need a veterinary exam? We’re here to help. Contact your Roanoke, VA animal hospital to schedule an appointment.