You need to trim your cat’s nails to discourage inappropriate scratching and to lessen the damage if she should inadvertently scratch you or your belongings. And long nails could get caught in carpeting or drapes and damage your cat’s toes. Start while your cat is young so it becomes routine. Handle your cat’s feet and nails so she gets used to your touch. When you are ready to trim the nails, act quickly and efficiently. Grasp your cat’s foot and press the pads so her nails extend. Clip a little off at a time while avoiding the quick. The quick is the blood and nerve supply to the nail and will bleed and hurt if nicked. Continue as long as your cat doesn’t resist. Don’t yell at your cat or punish her. If she pulls away repeatedly or gets upset, just try another time. Contact your Lafayette, LA vet to learn more. You c ... Read more »

Swimming is a great low-impact, fun exercise for your dog. Some dog breeds are natural swimmers and will dive right in while others are more hesitant. Look for a safe body of water. A pool, lake, river or even the ocean can be fun under certain circumstances. Ensure that the water is clean and isn’t too fast moving. Use a doggy life jacket for hesitant dogs or those breeds that are not obvious swimming breeds. Use a leash with the life jacket until your dog is very comfortable swimming. Be prepared to go into the water with your dog. Take him out to a depth to let him swim to the edge or shore. Next you can walk out with him or urge him to come out on his own. Keep it fun and supervise your dog at all times when he is in the water. Learn more from your trustworthy Lafay ... Read more »

If your dog escapes your yard he could get lost. He could be injured in a fight with another dog or hit by a car. Your dog could also be exposed to dangerous diseases or parasites. Thus you need to ensure your dog doesn’t get out of the yard. Understanding why your dog wants to escape is the first step in preventing escape. Your dog may be tempted to play with neighboring dogs or children. Or he may want to get out to seek a mate. Ensure your dog gets to socialize with other dogs and people and that he gets lots of exercise to mitigate his wanderlust. Your yard might be boring so make sure your yard is a fun place to be with toys and exercise apparatus your dog enjoys playing with. Your dog may be lonely so don’t leave him alone for long periods of time. For more information, contact your ... Read more »