How to Tell if Your Dog Has Fleas

The presence of fleas on your dog is a serious health risk. However, an infestation is not always apparent and you may not be sure if your dog is carrying these bloodsucking pests. If you suspect fleas, there are several different ways that you can seek out, identify and destroy them in order to protect the health of your pet.

The presence of fleas and their bites will cause your dog to scratch and bite its skin throughout the day. Since fleas tend to gather at the base of the rump and around the ears, you will probably see your dog scratching and gnawing at these areas most often. If the flea issue is not identified right away, your dog might start to lose its hair as a result of constant scratching.

One sign that your dog has fleas is sudden changes in the skin. If your dog develops red, rough bumps at the base of the tail, belly or groin, then the presence of fleas is likely. This skin damage usually results in the dog licking or gnawing in order to get relief from the itching. If left untreated, the skin may become infected and lead to a more serious illness.

While flea feces cannot be seen with the naked eye, there is a test you can perform to see if it is present on your dog’s skin. Have your dog step onto a large white towel and then rub your hands vigorously through its fur. If you see black specks fall onto the towel, apply drops of water to them or spray them with a bottle mister. If the specks turn red, it is flea feces and a sure sign of their presence.

While fleas can be difficult to see, adults are visible and identifying them is not difficult. To find them, part your dog’s hair where it is the thinnest. If you see fast-moving pests that are small, brown and oval, these are adult fleas. Once you have confirmed their presence, you should begin treatment right away and contact your vet for advice.

When left unchecked, fleas can cause irreparable damage to your dog’s coat and skin and make life miserable for your best pal. They can also spread to other pets and even to humans, so it is best that they are identified and destroyed quickly. To find a dog clinic in San Jose that can treat your dog’s flea problem, visit this website.

Three Reasons to Find a Vet That Offers Emergency Services

 

Finding the right vet is one of the most important decisions you will ever make for the health of your pet. The vet you choose will depend on your pet’s individual needs and your household budget. However, choosing a vet that offers emergency services may prove invaluable if the unthinkable should happen.

1. Accidents Do Not Always Happen During the Day

Accidents and sudden illness do not follow a schedule. If your pet is bleeding or vomiting, you will need help right away. A vet with emergency services will be there to answer your call, even in the middle of the night.

2. Treatment at Home May Not Help

You may be able to patch up a small cut or soothe your dog’s upset tummy with a home remedy. However, injuries that will require an emergency vet include:

• A broken bone
• Internal injuries from a bad fall or from being hit by a car
• A bite from a poisonous snake or insect

An emergency vet will be on call to help your pet in case of severe injury and increase its chances of survival.

3. You Will Know Who Is Treating Your Pet

When your pet is injured or ill, emotions run high. Knowing that your regular vet will be treating your pet during an emergency will help you feel calmer. Your pet will also trust him or her during any procedures that must take place.

The life of your pet is a precious thing, and finding a vet who offers emergency services can be invaluable in times of medical crisis. To find pet emergency vet services in San Jose, visit this website.

A Sneak Peek At the Life Of a Veterinarian

 

Have you always wanted to grow up to be a veterinarian? There is a lot more to it than a lot of people realize, but success can be one of the most rewarding feelings. Here’s some quick things you should know about veterinarians.

Six Common Health Problems with Older Pets

 

Older pets have special needs when it comes to health care. Dogs and cats usually begin to suffer from geriatric diseases once they reach the age of ten. There are six common health care issues that affect older pets.

1. Arthritis

Older cats and dogs often suffer from inflamed joints. Pain and stiffness is common on a daily basis but can get worse in cold weather. Anti-inflammatory medications may help reduce pain.

2. Diabetes

Diabetes can affect pets as they get older. Animals affected by this disease may drink more and have housebreaking accidents. Diabetes in pets can be treated at home with insulin.

3. Dementia

Older pets can suffer from dementia. Signs of this mental illness include:

• Pacing at night
• Staring/acting disoriented
• Inability to follow commands

Your vet may recommend a change and diet and vitamin supplements to improve cognitive ability.

4. Kidney Failure

Kidney failure is common in older pets. Symptoms include vomiting and a lack of appetite. While kidney failure cannot be reversed, it can be managed with a special diet and vitamin D supplements.

5. Cancer

While spayed and neutered pets have a decreased risk of developing cancer, it still occurs in pets over ten. Labored breathing and sores that do not heal are common signs of cancer. Dogs develop cancer more often than cats.

6. Heart Conditions

An enlarged heart or heart failure is usually characterized by coughing and wheezing. A pet may lose interest in exercise. These problems can be controlled, but not cured, by medication and therapy.

Older pets can still enjoy a great quality of life with the help of your vet. Visit this website to find a senior pet clinic in San Jose.

How to Tell If Your Rabbit Needs Surgery

 

As rodents, the needs of pet rabbits are different than dogs and cats, especially when it comes to health care. Unlike larger animals, rabbits tend to hide signs of illness and you may not recognize they are sick at first. However, when you do notice symptoms like lumps or swelling, you may wonder if your rabbit might need surgery. While symptoms vary, there are several signs that indicate a surgery might be necessary.

Abscesses

A rabbit might develop an abscess as a result of a wound that didn’t heal properly. They are also common in the teeth. Since abscesses are typically tough both inside and out, surgery is necessary in order to drain them completely.

Lumps

If you pick your rabbit up and feel a lump anywhere on the body, this could be the result of a tumor or cancerous growth. If left untreated, a lump could cause:

• Severe pain
• Loss of fur in the area
• Ruptures in the skin

Any lump, no matter its size, should be inspected and removed by a vet as soon as possible.

Male Aggression

If you have more than one male bunny and it starts to act aggressive around other rabbits and with you, then having it neutered can end this behavior. While this is an elective surgery, it may be necessary with some male rabbits, especially if they fight with other males to the point where they cause injuries.

As a pet owner, you should trust your instincts when it comes to your rabbit’s health. Weigh all the options carefully concerning surgery and ask your veterinarian for guidance. To find out more about rabbit pet surgery in Morgan Hill, visit this website.

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Common Health Issues in Pet Rabbits

 

Rabbits make great pets but are prone to certain illnesses. To keep your rabbit healthy, it is important to note any changes that might signal disease or illness. Whether you have only recently welcomed a rabbit into your life or are considering one as a pet, awareness of common rabbit health issues will help your pet live a long and happy life.

Coccidia

Coccidia is an internal parasite common in pet rabbits that are allowed to play outdoors. The parasite is picked up orally as your bunny grazes on damp grass, where it can be passed on orally. Symptoms of coccidia include diarrhea, bloating, and loss of appetite.

Gastrointestinal Stasis 

This is a very common issue in pet rabbits, and unfortunately, the results are usually fatal. Pet rabbits suffering from gastrointestinal stasis eventually starve to death because their G.I. tracts shut down completely. To prevent this, do the following:

• exercise your rabbit at least three hours a day
• supply it with a consistent supply of timothy hay to keep the gut healthy
• Groom it often to prevent hair swallowing

Ear Infections

A rabbit’s most endearing feature is its ears, but they can be a source of health problems as well. Ear infections are common in all breeds. If your bunny starts tilting its head to the side, this is a sign of infection and your bunny will need to see a vet.

Being in the know about common rabbit health problems may help you identify problems in your pet sooner. Ask your vet for advice if you are unsure about noticeable symptoms. For more information about how to find a rodent veterinary clinic in Morgan Hill, visit this website.