If you’re looking for an unexpected pet, the hedgehog might fit the bill. The trouble is, they’re covered in quills instead of soft downy fur. If you have a hedgehog, do you have to wear gloves when you handle your pet?

If your hedgehog hasn’t been properly socialized, or if you’re unfamiliar with handling a hedgehog, you should start by wearing gloves. A nervous hedgehog can end up prickling his handler, or you may simply handle him improperly.

Once your hedgehog is used to being handled and you’re used to handling him, you can start picking him up without wearing gloves. The trick is picking up and holding your pet with both hands to evenly distribute the quills. This makes them less painful.

If you’d like a crash course on the proper way to handle a hedgehog, schedule an appointment with your ... Read more »

No matter what kind of critter you have, it’s important to keep the cage clean. Hamsters and other pocket pets use bedding, but what about birds? How do you keep the bottom of their cage clean?

It isn’t a good idea to put bedding in the bottom of your bird’s cage. Not only is it not very effective, it’s also very messy! Instead, you should line the bottom of the cage with newspaper.

Cut a stack of newspaper to the same size as the bottom of the cage and keep it next to the cage. Every day or two, remove the paper at the bottom of the cage and replace it with a few new sheets of paper. Using a few sheets is better than using just one.

For more tips on keeping your bird’s cage clean, plan a visit with your veterinary clinic Niwot, CO.

Dealing with mats is most commonly associated with cats and dogs. Owners of these pets would tell you it’s a real pain brushing and trimming mats all the time, but what about other animals? Can rabbits get mats too?

It is possible for a rabbit to get mats. Much like cats or dogs, whether your rabbit gets mats or not depends on the kind of coat he has.

Rabbits with short fur aren’t prone to mats. It’s easy for dead hair to escape. If your rabbit has long hair and/or a particularly fluffy coat, you may have to deal with mats every once in a while.

If you notice that your rabbit is prone to mats, make sure you start brushing him regularly. If the mat is bad, you may have to trim it with a pair of scissors.

For professional help grooming your rabbit, call your   ... Read more »

Your dog is an important part of your family, and you want to make sure he knows this, particularly when stressful situations arise, like moving. How can you smooth over the process for your furry friend?

Your dog may not understand what is happening, and this can be distressing. He likely notices everyone being busier, and well-loved items disappearing for a while. Then he is brought to a new place that he isn’t familiar with, and is wondering what to make of it. To help your pet cope, try to keep him at the top of your priority list. Sure, there’s a lot to do, but playing with your pet and keeping his routine in place will help him adjust to his new home and understand that this is a positive change just as setting up his belongings right away will help him feel as home in the new space. For additional information, please contact your local Lawrenceville, GA ve ... Read more »

Hamsters don’t play with toys like other animals do. However, they do love getting exercise. Here are a few different types of running wheels that are made just for hamsters.

The oldest and most common wheel is made with small metal bars. Although this wheel will get the job done, your hamster can get his feet caught in between the bars, which can injure him. It’s best to choose a different wheel on this list.

Plastic wheels are the more popular choice. If you don’t want the wheel to take up a lot of space in the cage, choose a wheel that’s upright. For something a little different, try a saucer that sits at the bottom of the cage.

A proper running wheel is only one essential accessory. For a complete list of accessories that your hamster needs, call your veterinary clinic Craig ... Read more »

Many workplacesallow canines, and having dogs around can actually make work more productive and enjoyable. What about other pets? Can you bring a hamster or a cat to work?

Some animals can easily be brought to work while others can’t. A hamster isn’t likely to mind spending a few hours with you at work, just as long as you bring along his cage. However, he’s also likely to spend the entire time sleeping. Cats, on the other hand, shouldn’t be brought to work.

One of the best pets to bring to work is a parrot. Not only will everyone be fascinated by your bird, your bird is likely to have a blast being entertained by new people and a new environment.

Wondering if you can take your pet to work? Talk with your Arapahoe Animal Hospital, then check with your boss ... Read more »

It isn’t uncommon for pets to need regular baths. Dogs definitely need to be bathed, and even some cats need to be bathed every once in a while. What about gerbils? Do they need baths too?

Gerbils are native to a sandy, desert environment, which means they wouldn’t have regular access to water in the wild. In addition, gerbils are actually pretty good at grooming themselves. You shouldn’t ever have to give your gerbil a water bath.

However, gerbils can benefit from a sand bath! The sand can soak up oil and get rid of dead skin, not to mention, rolling around in the sand is a lot of fun for a gerbil! Purchase chinchilla sand, but avoid chinchilla dust. The particles are fine, which can cause respiratory distress.

To learn more about bathing a gerbil the right way, call and speak ... Read more »

Lately you’ve noticed that his skin has been a bit dry. Why would this happen?

Dry skin on your dog can be caused from many of the same reasons that dry skin arises on your own body. Changes in the level of moisture in the air can contribute, so be conscious of the seasonal changes in your area as this may be the culprit. Your dog may also be impacted by a lack of natural oils on his skin due to over washing. Try bathing him less and see if it clears up. If this doesn’t seem to help, look at all the products your pet regularly comes into contact with. There may be something that is drying his skin out a bit. Your local Wake Forest, NC vet clinic can help you care for the pets in your home.

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Your cat loves to eat, and mealtimes can be one of her favorites times throughout the day. However, the dish she is eating out of can make or break this experience. You want to make sure you offer her something that is simple for her to eat out of, and is comfortable for her to reach into. If you like traditional options, just make sure that the size is appropriate for the right amount per serving that your pet will be given. Opt for spill-proof bowls if your cat has a habit of knocking her food over onto the floor. You can also find food dishes with time-release options so your pet will be fed on time every day with or without you there beside her. Your local Wake Forest, NC veterinarian can help you care for your pet. Click here for additional information.

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Your dog looks forward to her walks each and every day, so you want to make sure she is able to get everything she needs out of them. Because your pet is an individual, you will need to assess her walk length based on her individual circumstances. This will include you taking the time to evaluate typical walks for her breed and age, as well as her general lifestyle and overall health. Her walk should be long enough to give her a good workout and keep her healthy, but shouldn’t be so long that she is having trouble finishing them. The length of time will also be impacted by other factors, like the terrain you are walking on, and how warm or cool the weather happens to be when you are heading out. Your local Wake Forest, NC vet clinic can help you better understand what your pet needs from you.

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Your family cares for your furry housemates in the best way they can. However, you are all very busy, and sometimes things can slip through the cracks. This isn’t fair to your dog, as he deserves to have all his needs met each and every day. To help make this happen, a dog walker can help out. These professionals are able to care for your pet in your absence by taking him out and helping him get some exercise. Your pet will be with a trusted individual that will be able to help him when you are otherwise occupied, opening up more opportunities for your pet to enjoy his day and get both some exercise and some fresh air. This way, you will be able to relax and play with your dog upon arriving home as you will know that his care requirements have been addressed. For additional information, please contact your local Wake Forest, NC vet.

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