Did you know that small pocket pets like the Russian Hamster are susceptible to ticks like other animals in the home? Call your vet if you notice a strange bite or lump on your dwarf hamster’s skin. Your hamster may have a tick on his skin. Your vet will be able to examine your hamster and determine what the lump is. It is possible for hamsters to get ticks although the ticks most likely were brought in to your hamster from another source. Ticks do not tend to seek out hamsters especially if your hamster doesn’t roam outside. In most cases, the ticks were brought in by a cat, dog, or a person. If your hamster does have a tick, don’t panic. Follow your vet’s directions for removal and treatment. You should also clean your hamster’s cage in case there are any other ticks in his bedding. Visit your veterinary clinic Savannah, GA’s homepage for more tips.

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Did you know that a European hamster has a particularly small stomach and digestive system? There are certain foods that are recommended for hamsters and certain foods that hamsters should avoid. In general, follow your vet’s guidelines and don’t add anything outside of the list. If you have a question about a food not recommended by your vet, give him a call and ask. For instance, hamsters can eat some fruits and vegetables, but not all. Some vegetables are harmless; however, some vegetables have parts that are harmless and parts that are toxic. For instance, your hamster may love tomatoes, but you must be careful not to allow him to get hold of the stems or leafy green parts of the plant. These parts are toxic. A fruit may be OK to feed your hamster, but the fruit’s seeds, pits, or outer leaves may be toxic. For more a list of safe and toxic foods, contact an experienced veterinarian Savannah, GA.

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Guinea pigs don’t respond to their names in the way a cat or dog would but naming your piggy is an important task. Your pig’s name is what your family members will call him and like any name, it imparts a certain definition of his personality. Some families name their pigs after a physical defining feature such as Curly or Blondie. Others choose a name from a favorite book, TV show or movie leading to Potter, Sheldon or Ella. Squeaky or Bubbles bring to mind a personality characteristic. You could even name your pig after a favorite childhood pet leading to Cuddles VI or Spanky II. Whatever name you choose, be consistent in using it. Make sure it is easy to say and that all family members are comfortable saying it aloud. Make sure there are no negative connotations associated with the name. For more details, visit here. http://myhendersonvillevet.com/

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Light Red Fox gerbils and other breeds of gerbils can make great pocket pets for older children. Talk with your vet before purchasing a gerbil in order to learn what to look for when shopping or adopting. For example, when looking for a Light Red-Fox gerbil you should pay special attention to his appearance, movements, and his overall environment. If purchasing from a breeder, especially note how all pets in the home are treated to be sure the gerbil is receiving proper care. Typically, the gerbil should have clear, bright, and clean eyes free of cloudiness and drainage. The fur around the eyes should be dry and free of stains. The gerbil’s fur, in general, should be healthy and clean without balding spots or matted patches. The gerbil’s nails should be trimmed and his feet should be free of blisters or sores. For more information & suggestions, you can contact your veterinary clinic Savannah, GA.

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Has your Russian Blue recent been diagnosed with Degenerative Joint Disease (DJD)? If so, talk with your vet in depth to learn about treatment plans and long term care for your cat. DJD generally occurs when the cartilage surrounding the muscle joints slowly deteriorates. This disease can only be diagnosed by your vet. Treatment options may include limiting exercise and administering medications prescribed by your vet. Some vets may also recommend physical therapy, massages, or even swimming to increase movement and limb function. Exercises may also be recommended to strengthen muscle tone. In addition, some vets may suggest surgery to slow the progression of the disease or to remove or replace joints. Bone or cartilage fragments may be surgically removed to decrease discomfort. It’s import to understand that treatment options are mainly designed to alleviate pain and discomfort associated with DJD. Talk with your veterinarian South Dade, FL to lea ... Read more »

Is your Chow Chow a good pill taker? Some dogs have no trouble while others may protest or even snap at you. Whether it’s a vitamin, flee prevention, or even an antibiotic some dogs just don’t want to chew or swallow pills. If your vet prescribes a medication in pill form for your Chow Chow ask for suggestions on how to get your dog to actually take the pill. Some pet owners find that placing the pill in a ‘pill pocket’ or soft treat will do the trick. You can also try mixing the pill in your dog’s food or even covering it in peanut butter before giving it to him. If disguising the pill doesn’t work, try placing the pill in your dog’s mouth yourself. Ask your vet to demonstrate the correct way to place the pill in your dog’s mouth. If you still have trouble, request a chewable alternative from your veterinary clinic South Dade, FL. For more details, click here.

Do you own a cat like the Balinese? Has he been diagnosed with Degenerative Joint Disease (DJD)? If so, you may want to talk with your vet to learn more about treatment and care. DJD is a long-term disease that occurs when the cartilage surrounding the muscle joints slowly deteriorates. This disease can only be diagnosed by your vet. Treatment options may include limiting exercise and administering medications prescribed by your vet. Some vets also recommend physical therapy, massages, or even swimming to increase movement and limb function. Exercises may also be recommended to strengthen muscle tone. In addition, some vets may suggest surgery to slow the progression of the disease or to remove or replace joints. Bone or cartilage fragments may also be surgically removed to decrease discomfort. Your vet care South Dade, FL can tell you that treatment options are mainly designed to alleviate pain and discomfort as ... Read more »