Dental hygiene is essential to your cat since decay can cause pain and trouble eating and may introduce dangerous bacteria into her bloodstream. Thus you must clean your cat’s teeth thoroughly and regularly. Start when your cat is young so it becomes routine. Use cotton balls or gauze pads to clean her teeth and work up to a pet toothbrush or a finger brush. Only use pet-safe toothpaste since human toothpaste can be toxic to your cat. Don’t forget to stimulate the gums. Take your time and consider breaking up cleanings into several sessions if your cat resists. Examine your cat’s mouth for signs of infection and decay such as red or swollen gums, loose teeth or bad odor. These conditions may need urgent medical attention. Remember that even with the most diligent of care, your cat will n ... Read more »

 Your cat may enjoy walking around on your counters since she gets food when she is up there. She may also use the counters to peruse her territory from a high vantage point. However, this can be annoying and unsanitary if your cat is on the counter when you are preparing food. Thus you must discourage your cat from jumping up on the counters. Start by never feeding your cat while she is on the counter. If she jumps up there, remove her and put her someplace safe. Don’t make a fuss or punish her. Cover the counters with aluminum foil strips or double-sided tape while not in use. These materials feel weird to your cat’s feet so she will avoid going up there. Set up an alternative perch such as a shelf or windowsill where your cat can observe the hubbub of your house ... Read more »

Trimming your dog’s nails is a necessary grooming task. Long nails can tear and cause pain. They can get caught and injure your dog’s toes. And they can limit your dog’s gripping ability and he could slip. Start trimming your dog’s nails when he is young so it becomes routine. Handle his feet and toes so he gets used to your touch. When you are ready to trim your dog’s nails, grasp his foot firmly and cut each nail a little 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 one nail at a time as long as your dog will tolerate it. If your dog resists na ... Read more »

Your family has wanted a lizard for a long time now, and you are happy to say that you officially feel you are ready to bring one into the household. How can you select the ideal lizard for your family?

Any potential pet that could come into your household needs you to consider what you can do to care for them. You will need to take the time to research their care needs, and make sure you can meet these before you commit to caring for them. Think about what life with each individual pet will really be like, and consider what you can do help them thrive. Divide up the care tasks as necessary among family members, and discuss how different pet care situations will be handled. Your local recommended vets Happy Valley OR can help you care for your pet.

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