When it comes to allowing dogs to swim in lakes, pet owners should make sure to avoid lakes with a green-scum layer on top. When it’s very hot, lakes have an increased likelihood of developing a thick layer of algal bloom. While not all types of algae are poisonous to dogs, blue-green algae are extremely toxic to them.

Also called cyanobacteria, blue-algae are microscopic bacteria that thrive in freshwater ponds, streams, lakes, and brackish water systems. The bacteria produce toxins called anatoxins and microcystins, which are dangerous. These toxins are actually poisonous not only to dogs but also to cats, horses, cattle, and even humans. This is an important reason why you shouldn’t allow your pet dog or child to drink or swim in water that is potentially contaminated with blue-green algae.

If your dog shows any symptoms of poisoning, bring your pet to the Greenwood, ... Read more »

The litter box can be very helpful in determining your cat’s general health. Since you need to scoop the box regularly, you get a clear view of what is normal for your cat. Any changes in the texture or color of feces can help identify problems with diet, stress and even disease. Excessive or not enough urine gives you a clear view into possible medical issues. Small, hard stools can indicate constipation, whereas dark or loose stools indicate diarrhea and possibly blood in the digestive tract. You may even see a lot of hair, which may be from hairballs or excessive grooming. Changes in the production of urine are clear indicators of a medical issue that needs to be addressed promptly. Watch your cat’s litter box carefully for changes that can be explained by changes in diet as opposed to those that could be health issues. Contact your Myrtle Beach, SC veterinarian the Waccamaw Animal Hospital to l ... Read more »

Dogs of just about all breeds have the insatiable desire to explore and get into things that don’t belong to them. For instance, your Standard Poodle may decide that she wants to check out the crayons left on the counter by your children. If you find your pup has eaten a crayon or at least suspect he has due to the empty crayon paper hanging from his mouth, call your vet. You should also check the crayon paper or box to find out if the crayons are non-toxic (most should be, but check anyway). Your vet may also suggest that you closely monitor your pup’s bowel movements. Dogs that eat crayons are typically fine; however, their poop may be especially colorful for a few days. Should your Standard Poodle develop abnormal poop or appear to have stomach pains, call your vet Plano, TX immediately to schedule an exam.

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Some dog breeds are more susceptible to ear problems than others. If your dog is one of these breeds, then you may need to be even more diligent in caring for your dog’s ears. For other dogs, it may be a matter of lifestyle. Dogs that swim a lot or spend time in the water may have issues with excess moisture in the ears. Similarly big floppy ears or excessive hair in the ears can restrict airflow and leave the ear canal damp. Check your dog’s ears frequently to check for moisture and other discharge. If earwax is dark in color, your dog may have an infection or ear mites. Look for redness and rubbing or scratching. Clean your dog’s ears regularly using cotton balls and a dog-safe ear rinse. You can use cotton swabs but don’t reach any deeper into the ear canal than you can see. For more information, contact your Myrtle Beach, SC vet, visit the website http://waccamawveterinary.com/.

Are you planning to show your Keeshond at a local or national level? If so, there are few things you will need to do going into the process. First, before signing up for a dog show or class, be sure your Keeshond is registered with the American Kennel Club (AKC) association. Once you’re registered and you have attended a local show or have taken part in a practice show, you will need to sign up and register for the official show. Confirmation showing is the term used when referring to dog shows. In order to sign up for a class you will need to make sure the breed of your dog is being shown at a particular show. For instance, you will not be able to show your Keeshond if the show is only open to Husky breeds. Talk to your veterinarian Plano, TX for additional information regarding your Keeshond’s medical record and other show required information.

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As the warmer months approach the number of mosquitoes and other flies will increase. It’s important to protect your Black Lab from mosquitoes and other biting gnats and flies as some insect bites can cause illnesses. Mosquitoes can transmit parasitic diseases such as the West Nile Virus, Eastern equine encephalitis and systemic lupus erythematosus to people and animals. Black Labs are not as susceptible to these diseases; however, they can contract heart worms from mosquito bites. Signs that your Black Lab may have a mosquito bite include excessive scratching, swelling, altered breathing or vision and even little bumps appearing on the Black Lab’s skin. Signs of possible heartworm infection include fatigue, coughing, enlarged abdomen, vomiting and weight loss. Ways to prevent mosquito bites and possible disease include keeping your yard free of standing water and giving your Black Lab monthly heartworm prevention medication. Talk with your v ... Read more »

Are you raising a litter of Burmese kittens as well as caring for the mother too? If so, talk with your vet to find out the basic process for weaning as well as what types of food to provide growing kittens. In general, weaning is simply the process of transitioning your kitten from mama cat’s milk or bottle fed milk to solid food. Most vets agree that you can begin the weaning process when your Burmese kitten is around four weeks old. Your kitten will most likely let you know she’s ready when she starts exploring her mother’s food and tries to nibble on it every now and then. If possible, allow the mama cat to start and finish the weaning process. If you are weaning an orphan kitten then you may be able to start weaning her around the third week of age. Always walk with your veterinary clinic Frisco, TX if you need assistance.

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