Recognizing Signs of Fear in Pets During Summer Months

As pet owners, it’s crucial to prioritize the mental and physical health of our beloved companions. One of the most common causes of stress in pets is summer thunderstorms and fireworks. During these events, pets exhibit various behaviors that indicate fear and stress. When experiencing a thunderstorm or fireworks, pets may pant excessively, bark or howl, tremble, hide, or even become destructive. These behaviors can be alarming and cause stress to both the pet and the owner. So what can you do to help alleviate your furry friend’s stress during these situations?

Provide a Comfortable and Safe Space

It’s essential to create a comfortable and safe space for your pet during a thunderstorm or fireworks. Keep your pet indoors and away from windows. Consider creating a cozy space with their favorite toy, blanket, or bed in an interior room, preferably where they feel comfortable.

Play Calming Music

Just like humans, animals can be sensitive to noise. Providing calming music can help create a quiet, peaceful environment for your pet to help them relax, in addition to reducing the sounds of the booms outside.

Consider Products That Help Calm Pets

Various products are available in the market that can help calm pets during thunderstorms or fireworks. There are specific articles of clothing, such as calming wraps and shirts, which apply gentle pressure and offer a calming effect during stressful situations. Calming sprays, diffusers, and treats can help reduce anxiety and stress in pets. Make sure that the products you are using are pet-safe and specifically created for pets. Our veterinary team can provide guidance on items that may help in your pet’s specific situation.

Anticipate the “Booms”

Once you have a calm area set up for your pet, don’t forget to take time to prepare your pet in advance for the upcoming “booms”. Pay close attention to weather alerts and relocate your pet to their calming space BEFORE the noise begins. Similarly, be aware of local events which may be displaying fireworks over the next several weeks.

By making time spent in this calming space a positive one, rather than a stressful one, you can help your pet cope better in the future. Provide a special treat or toy when they’re there to make it an enjoyable experience.

Seek Help from a Veterinarian

In severe cases, pet parents may need to seek help from a veterinarian to reduce their pet’s stress levels. Vets can prescribe medications that help alleviate anxiety and provide advice on other methods that can help comfort and soothe pets during storms or fireworks.

Being proactive can go a long way in helping your pet feel safe and comfortable during the summer months. Keeping a close eye on their behaviors, providing a safe space, playing calming music, trying products that help calm pets, and seeking help if needed are all important steps to ensure your pet’s well-being.

Make sure to prioritize your pet’s mental health and well-being by taking the necessary steps to alleviate their stress during thunderstorms and fireworks. If you notice any signs of severe stress, don’t hesitate to seek help from our veterinary team.

 

 

Year-Round Pet Dental Care: Why It Matters

February is Pet Dental Health Month and it’s a great time for pet owners to brush up on their pet care knowledge. Just like humans, pets need good dental healthcare. That’s why it’s important to understand the basics of taking care of your pet’s teeth and gums all year round. Let’s dive into the significance of proper pet dental health and how you can keep your pets healthy and happy.

Why Is Pet Dental Health Essential?

Your pet’s teeth are an essential part of their overall health and well-being. Poor dental hygiene can lead to tooth decay, infections, and other serious medical conditions such as heart disease and kidney damage. Dental decay and infections can also affect your pet’s appetite, energy levels, and overall quality of life. Therefore, taking care of your pet’s dental health should be a priority all year long, not just during Pet Dental Health Month in February.

Can you imagine eating dinner if your teeth ached or you had excruciating mouth pain? Our pets are unable to vocalize to us when they are feeling uncomfortable, so it’s crucial for us to take the necessary steps to ensure their teeth and gums are healthy.

How To Take Care Of Your Pet’s Teeth & Gums

The first step in taking care of your pet’s dental health is regular brushing with pet-specific toothpaste (never use human toothpaste). This will help remove plaque and tartar buildup from their teeth which can cause decay or gum disease. You can also ask us about supplementing brushing with oral rinses or wipes designed specifically for pets. These can help reduce bad breath and discoloration on their teeth. Finally, regular checkups at the vet are key for spotting any potential problems before they become too severe.

In addition to regular brushing, there are some other ways you can keep your pet’s mouth healthy. Providing them with chew toys that help scrub away some plaque buildup or giving them dental treats that are formulated to reduce tartar build-up while freshening breath naturally may be beneficial. There are a variety of options available, so you should look for ones that work best for your pet based on size, age, breed, and lifestyle. Our veterinary team can point you in the right direction for the products we recommend.

For the best dental health, getting your pet’s teeth professionally cleaned with us will help identify issues below the gumline. We can then remove or treat teeth that may present additional health issues to your pet.

Signs of Oral Problems in Pets

It can be tough for owners to tell if their pets have any kind of oral problems since they can’t communicate when they’re feeling pain or discomfort in the same way that humans do. As responsible pet owners, we need to pay close attention to any changes in our pets’ behavior such as decreased appetite or difficulty chewing food—these may be signs of an underlying dental issue that needs immediate attention. Other signs include bad breath (which is common with periodontal disease) or drooling or bleeding from the mouth (which could indicate an abscess). Contact us immediately if you notice any of these signs in your pet.

Taking care of your pet’s dental health is essential for keeping them healthy and happy throughout the year – not just during Pet Dental Health Month in February! With these tips in mind, you’ll have one less thing to worry about when it comes to keeping your furry family member happy and healthy!

 

The Benefits of Adopting a Senior Pet

One of the most rewarding things about being a pet owner is knowing that you’ve given an animal a loving home for the rest of their days. And what could be more rewarding than giving a senior pet a “new leash on life”? Senior pets are often passed over in favor of puppies and kittens, but they have so much to offer! Here are five reasons to consider adopting a senior pet today:

1. Senior pets are often already housebroken

When you adopt a senior pet, you’re getting an animal that is already accustomed to living in a home environment. This means they’re likely already housetrained and have experience interacting with people and other animals. This can be a big relief if you’re worried about dealing with accidents or bad habits, and it’s one less thing you’ll have to worry about as you settle your new pet into their new home.

Of course, depending on the pet, if they’ve not had training, you’ll still need to be prepared to do some work with them on things like learning to walk on a leash or getting used to a new routine. But overall, senior pets can be wonderful to transition into your home.

2. Senior pets are often calmer and less destructive

Puppies and kittens are notoriously active, which can lead to some destruction around the house as they explore their surroundings. Senior pets are often much calmer, and this can mean fewer destroyed shoes and shredded couch cushions. If you’re looking for a low-key animal companion, a senior pet may be the perfect fit for you.

3. Senior pets are more likely to be spayed or neutered

Since senior pets have likely already been spayed or neutered, this is one less thing you’ll need to worry about. This also means that they’re less likely to mark their territory or try to escape in search of a mate, which can be a common issue with younger animals.

Being spayed or neutered also helps reduce the risk of certain cancers.

4. Senior pets are often observed in their foster homes or shelters, so you have insights into their behaviors and mannerisms

When you adopt a senior pet, chances are the staff at the shelter or rescue have had plenty of time to get to know their personality and quirks. This means they can give you a pretty good idea of what to expect in terms of energy level, temperament, and behavior. This can be helpful in deciding whether or not a particular pet is a good fit for your home and lifestyle.

They also have the opportunity to observe the pet with other pets and people, and this can give you some valuable insights into how your new pet will do in those situations. For example, if you have other pets at home, the shelter staff can tell you if the senior pet you’re interested in does well with other animals. They can let you know how the pet relates to people, too, which can be helpful in understanding how the pet may react within your family dynamic.

5. Adopting a senior pet means you’re giving them a second chance at a happy life

Senior pets often have a harder time getting adopted than younger animals, and as a result, they can end up spending their later years in shelters or rescue organizations, often due to no fault of their own. When you adopt a senior pet, you’re not only giving them a loving home, but you’re also giving them a second chance at happiness.

When you adopt a senior pet, you’re giving them a second chance at a happy life – which is something they’ll be forever grateful for.

Bonus tip!

6. Senior pets often have a lower adoption fee

One of the great things about adopting a senior pet is that they may have a lower adoption fee than younger animals. This can be a big benefit if you’re on a budget or are looking to adopt multiple pets. Lower adoption fees also mean that more people are able to adopt, which is great for senior pets in need of homes.

So, if you’re looking to add a new companion to your family, consider adopting a senior pet. They make great companions and come with a host of benefits.

If you do adopt a senior pet, we can’t wait to meet them! Make an appointment today so we can give them a check-up and help them get settled into their new home and continue on a journey of wellness.

The Dangers of Pet Obesity & How to Prevent It

Pet Obesity

Just like humans, our pets can suffer from obesity. As pet owners, it’s our responsibility to make sure our animal companions stay at a healthy weight. Not only does obesity limit your pet’s mobility, but it can also lead to a host of health problems and make your pet more susceptible to disease. Here’s what you need to know about pet obesity and how to prevent it.

What Causes Pet Obesity?

There are a number of factors that can contribute to pet obesity, including genetics, age, activity level, and diet. For example, some breeds of dogs are more prone to weight gain than others. Some older pets may be more likely to be obese because they tend to be less active and have a slower metabolism. Additionally, pets who don’t get enough exercise are also at risk for weight gain. Finally, an unhealthy diet is one of the main culprits behind pet obesity. Just like with people, if pets eat too much food and consume too many calories, they will gain weight.

The Dangers of Pet Obesity

Pet obesity can lead to a host of health problems in both dogs and cats, including joint pain, orthopedic issues, respiratory difficulties, gastrointestinal problems, diabetes, high blood pressure, and cancer. One of the best ways to prevent these problems is by keeping your pet at a healthy weight.

Tips for Preventing Pet Obesity

The best way to prevent pet obesity is by feeding your pet a healthy, quality diet and making sure they get enough exercise. When it comes to diet, talk to us about how much food your pet needs each day and what type of food is best for their specific breed and health condition.

When it comes to exercise, take your dog for a walk or run every day, or play fetch with them in the backyard. If you have an indoor cat, invest in some toys that encourage them to move around and stay active. If you have questions about the right amount and type of exercise for your pet, please schedule an appointment with us.

Pet obesity is a serious problem that can lead to numerous health complications down the road. As a responsible pet owner, it’s important to do everything you can to prevent your furry friend from becoming overweight or obese. The good news is that there are plenty of things you can do to help keep your pet at a healthy weight throughout their life. We’re here to help each step of the way!

Love Your Pet? Show Their Teeth Some TLC

National Pet Dental Health Month

Are you looking for ways to show your pet some extra love this Valentine’s Day? While toys and treats are great, there is nothing better than giving your pet the gift of health. February is National Pet Dental Health Month and an excellent time to make your pet’s dental health a priority.

Here are a few ways you can improve your pet’s dental health and show their teeth some love all year long!

Benefits of Brushing Your Pet’s Teeth

Brushing your pet’s teeth does more than just improve their breath. According to the American Veterinary Medical Association, the majority of adult pets have some degree of dental disease. This condition is also known as periodontal disease and is caused by plaque and tartar buildup on your pet’s teeth. This buildup can spread below your pet’s gum line, causing gum inflammation and irritation.

As plaque and tartar accumulate, the amount of bacteria in your pet’s mouth will also increase. Not only is this bad for your pet’s oral health, but bacteria can also enter your pet’s bloodstream and spread throughout their body. This can have a significant impact on your pet’s long-term health.

The more frequently you brush your pet’s teeth, the better you can prevent the harmful repercussions of dental disease. Make sure you are using pet-friendly toothpaste. Not only does pet-friendly toothpaste come in a variety of tasty flavors, but they are also free of harmful ingredients that can be found in human products.

If you have questions about your brushing technique, let us know at your next wellness appointment. We can discuss your pet’s dental routine and how to make the process as stress-free as possible.

Trading Treats for Dental Chews

While treats can be delicious, they are not always the best for your pet’s health. This Valentine’s Day, consider trading out your pet’s high-calorie treats for healthy dental chews. Dental chews can help remove plaque while still serving as a tasty snack. Dental chews are not only a great option for a special Valentine’s Day treat, but they are also a great way to improve your pet’s dental health year-round.

When purchasing dental chews, look for products with a Veterinary Oral Health Council seal of approval. This means that the dental product has undergone a thorough review by veterinary professionals and is certified to improve your pet’s dental health. We are also happy to make recommendations based on your pet’s specific needs.

Schedule Your Pet’s Dental Cleaning

Do you know the last time your pet received a professional dental cleaning? At-home care is an important part of improving your pet’s oral health. However, professional care is still a necessity. We recommend that adult pets receive a dental cleaning approximately once a year.

These cleanings allow our veterinary team to remove all of your pet’s stubborn tartar, including the buildup that accumulates under the gum line. Professional dental cleanings are performed while your pet is under anesthesia. This helps keep your pet comfortable and allows us to perform a thorough cleaning.

Final Thoughts

We hope this article has given you some ideas on how you can improve your pet’s dental health. While February is a great time to show your pet’s teeth some extra TLC, it’s crucial to maintain healthy dental habits all year long. If you have additional questions about your pet’s dental care or would like to schedule an appointment, please give us a call.

 

 

Image credit: Irina Lesovaia / iStock / Getty Images Plus

8 New Year’s Resolutions for Pet Owners

8-New-Year's-Resolutions-for-Pet-Owners

It’s a new year, which means it’s a perfect time to reflect on the special bond you and your pet share. You love your pet. And they love you! Pets are treasured members of our families, so it just makes good sense to consider the year ahead and plan ways to help your pet stay in tip-top shape! Read on for 8 simple ways you can make your pet’s life even better.

1. See your home through your pet’s eyes.

From plants that may be toxic to household cleaners that could make them sick, trash containers out in the open, or medications within their reach, many of the things we don’t think twice about can be a real problem for pets. Take a moment to consider your home from your pet’s perspective and you’ll likely find all sorts of ways to remove potential hazards and keep your four-legged family member safe from their own curiosity.

2. Go outside with your dog on walks – it’s good exercise for both of you!

If you’re like many pet owners, your dog’s daily exercise is probably limited to a quick walk through the neighborhood. Consider making time for longer walks and play sessions. If you can’t, try hiring a dog walker or finding a doggy daycare in your area. Not only will your pet enjoy more time outdoors or being engaged in activity, you’ll be boosting their fitness levels too!

3. Get rid of that extra weight!

If your pet is overweight, it’s not just an aesthetic problem. Extra pounds put pets at risk for all sorts of serious conditions like arthritis, diabetes, heart disease and other significant illnesses. If you think your pet may be overweight, schedule an appointment with us to check them out. We’ll work together to set a reasonable goal for their weight loss.

4. Brush your dog or cat’s teeth regularly.

If you don’t already brush your pet’s teeth, now is a good time to start! Just as with humans, it only takes a few minutes each day and can help stop more advanced and complicated problems from developing.

Scheduling a professional cleaning with us will help us assess their dental health below the gum line, as well as what we can see when examining their mouth. Did you know that treating dental disease in its earliest stages not only helps keep your pet healthy, but is more economical than treating advanced dental disease? It literally makes “cents” to stay on top of your pet’s dental health.

As your pet’s veterinarian, we can also advise on dental treats, chews, and rinses that will keep your pet’s mouth bright, healthy, and smelling fresh.

5. Frequently clean food and water dishes that may be harboring bacteria.

If you notice slime (biofilm), cloudy or otherwise discolored water, or if food is left in the dish overnight, chances are good that bacteria is growing there. This can make your pet severely ill. Daily cleanings of their dishes followed by disinfecting in the dishwasher once a week will help them avoid this hazard.

6. Give them food that is appropriate to their age/weight/health needs.

Each year of a pet’s life brings special needs and concerns so it’s important to consider their age, weight, and health needs as you choose the best food for them. Unfortunately, there is so much marketing directed at pet owners about which foods to choose, it can be complex and overwhelming. We’re here to help you navigate the options and find food options that are best for your pet.

7. Schedule your pet’s wellness exam.

From vaccines to preventive medicine and parasite prevention to guide your pet’s journey as your pet ages, a wellness exam is a great way to keep your pet healthy and on track. We can help you learn more about their needs as they age, find ways to help them live longer and healthier lives, and identify problems in their earliest stages.

8. Spend more time with your pet.

Spending time with our pets is such a gift – why not commit to more of it? Not only will you make your pet happier, but it’s a great way to stay connected and strengthen the bond between you and your pet.

Have a happy 2022!

We hope you have a wonderful and healthy year ahead. We are here to help guide your pet’s journey in health and wellbeing, and we look forward to seeing you at our next visit!

 

 

The Greatest Gift

Looking For a Special Gift for Your Pet?

 

Your pet is a loved and valuable member of your family, so it only makes sense that you want to buy him a special holiday gift. If you decide on a toy, we at Mounds View Animal Hospital would like to remind you of the following important safety considerations:

 

  • Your pet’s size: This is especially important when purchasing a chewable toy. A squeaky toy ball, for example, would be fine for a cat but not a large dog due to the potential choking hazard.
  • Stuffing material: Beads, foam, and other stuffing material could come loose from the toy if your pet bites it or tears it apart. If you choose a stuffed toy, be sure to supervise your pet until you know how she will react to it.
  • Attachments to toys: Items like ties, ribbons, plastic eyes, and even stitches can easily come loose and present a choking hazard to your dog or cat. You may want to consider removing these items first if your pet is especially rambunctious with toys.

 

Additionally, be sure to teach your pet which items belong to him as toys and which he should leave alone. You can reinforce the idea of safe toys by praising your pet every time he takes one of his own toys out to play with and redirect him when he tries to chew on or play with something belonging to another family member. It’s especially important to pet-proof during the holiday season so your dog or cat doesn’t get into office supplies, electronics, your children’s toys, or anything else he’s curious about but that could ultimately hurt him.

 

Order Pet Toys or Treats Online This Year

Have you had a chance to visit our online store yet? You can complete holiday shopping for your pet with just a few clicks. Best of all, we guarantee that our pet toys and treats for stocking stuffers are safe and appropriate for your dog or cat. You save time, gas money, and fighting crowds at the mall. It’s a win for everyone! Visit our online store to find the perfect gift.

 

 

Time: The Best Gift of All

 

Sometimes all your pet wants and needs is something that you can’t wrap or put under a tree. It’s the gift of your time and attention. During this busy and stressful season, pet owners sometimes forget to engage with their dog or cat in favor of checking one more thing off a to-do list. This can cause your pet to act out, which only adds to your stress level. Pause, (or should we say, pawwwssss!) and take a little extra time to spend time snuggling or walking your pet. You’ll both enjoy the extra time together!

 

Please don’t hesitate to contact us at 763-780-8351 if you have additional pet care concerns this holiday season. Happy Holidays from all of us at Mounds View Animal Hospital!
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