If you own a canine like the Pug then you may be curious about different health conditions that could develop over the course of your pup’s lifetime.  Although not all dogs will develop serious illnesses in their lifetime, it’s important to learn about possible conditions in order to detect them early. Canine epilepsy, for instance, can occur in various breeds including the Pug. As with seizures in people, canine seizures are believed to be related to the miscommunication of neurons in the brain. Your vet may need to run a thorough examination of your Pug to diagnose his condition. You will need to provide your vet with a detailed health history of your dog. A physical and neurological exam of your dog may be required. Laboratory tests and X-rays are often part of the examination process. If a trigger or underlying cause can be determined then your veterinarian London, ON will prescribe treatment accord ... Read more »

Did you know that epilepsy or seizure activity can affect animals including cats like the Persian? In general, epilepsy is a brain disorder that can cause animals to have sudden, uncontrollable seizures. These seizures are most often recurring and may or may not cause the animal to pass out. If your cat is suffering from seizures, contact your vet immediately. Some experts believe seizures are an “uncoordinated firing of neurons” within the cerebrum portion of the brain. The reasons for this are unknown; however, it is thought that, like humans, the neurotransmitters are not in a “proper chemical balance” so the activity is not coordinated as it should be. Cats suffering from epilepsy will have periodic occurrences of the uncoordinated neuron firings, which are known as seizures, convulsions, or even fits. Talk with your vet London, ON to learn more about seizures in cats.

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False pregnancy is quite common among bitches. Many experts theorize that it is a normal physiological function of the body that evolved so pups in the wild will survive. In the wild, the domestic dog’s distant cousins have to adapt ways to survive the harsh conditions and ensure perpetuation of the species. Thus, only dominant bitches in the pack actually produce litters, while other females only produce milk so the pups will be adequately nourished. Domestication of dogs hasn’t erased this physiological behavior. A good number of female dogs today still undergo false pregnancy.

A female dog of any age can develop false pregnancy. Symptoms are generally manifested within 4-9weks after heat, and include enlarged mammary glands—milk may be excreted when pressed, but it may be absent in some dogs. There may also be changes in behavior—affected dogs becoming possessive, clingy, or nervous. Some bi ... Read more »

Your dog is an important part of your life, and you always want to be there for him when he needs you. This means that you take the time out of your schedule to tend to his needs, particularly when he is having a rough time, like when recovering from an injury.

In order to recover to the fullest, you will need to make sure that your pet is able to be cared for in the manner that his veterinarian recommended. This means following all directions you were given, and clarifying any concerns you may have prior to heading home. Take the time to sit with your pet and talk to him often. This will help the time pass more easily, and allow him to relax a bit knowing that you are right by his side. Your local Greenville, SC vet clinic, the Verdin Veterinary Services can help you care for your pet. Schedule an appointment today.

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Your cat needs to scratch somewhere in or around your home in order for her to maintain healthy claws. This means keeping them filed to a manageable length, keeping them strong and usable, as well as eliminating portions that are no longer in use. Unfortunately, too often cats choose areas to scratch that their owners would prefer they didn’t, like household furniture.

To give your cat an ideal place to scratch, you should take note of where she currently scratches. If it’s a vertical surface, opt for a scratching post. If it’s a horizontal surface, look into scratching mats or pads. Choose an option that you can place where she tends to already scratch, and make a point to encourage its use. Place treats nearby and toys right next to it so she will take note of its presence. Your local Greenville, SC vet clinic can offer additional advice.

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Your dog’s health is a top priority of yours, and you want to make sure that you are feeding him a high quality food to keep him in top shape. How can you determine what he needs to eat?

Your dog is a unique pet, and his needs are unique as well. His dietary requirements will depend on several factors, like how well he is able to chew and digest typical dry food, his breed’s usual nutrient needs, and his age. His food choices will also need to take into account his lifestyle and any health concerns you may have. Finding a perfect food can be tricky, but try to find an all-natural food that gives him a complete nutrient profile. There are also many different treats on the market that can help you supplement his diet if need be. For more information, please contact your local Greenville, SC veterinarian.

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