Pre-Visit Pharmaceuticals

Pre-Visit Pharmaceuticals: Elevating Your Pet’s Vet Visit Experience

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At Pet Health, our commitment to Fear-Free techniques continues throughout July. We believe that every aspect of your pet’s veterinary experience should prioritize their emotional well-being alongside their physical health. That’s why we’re dedicated to implementing strategies like pre-visit pharmaceuticals (PVPs) to ensure that every visit to our clinic is as stress-free and positive as possible.

What Are Pre-Visit Pharmaceuticals?

Pre-visit pharmaceuticals are medications designed to reduce fear, anxiety, and stress (FAS) in pets during veterinary visits. Just as we might prescribe pain medication to alleviate physical discomfort, we use PVPs to address the emotional discomfort experienced by pets in stressful situations. These medications include a range of anti-anxiety and sedative drugs tailored to each pet’s individual needs.

Tailored Treatment for Every Pet

At Pet Health, we understand that every pet is unique, so we take a personalized approach to prescribing PVPs. Factors such as age, breed, health history, and the specific procedure planned for the visit are all considered when determining the most appropriate medication and dosage for each pet. We aim to reduce FAS to a manageable level for the pet without causing sedation or impairing their normal behavior.

Common Pre-Visit Pharmaceuticals

For dogs, common PVPs include medications like Trazodone, Alprazolam, Gabapentin, Clonidine, and Diazepam. Cats may be prescribed drugs such as Gabapentin, Trazodone, and Lorazepam. Each medication has been extensively studied and is considered safe in veterinary practice.

Why We Use Pre-Visit Pharmaceuticals

The use of PVPs offers numerous benefits for both pets and their pet parents. By reducing fear, anxiety, and stress, we can ensure a more pleasant and positive experience for pets during their veterinary visits. This makes the visit more comfortable for the pet and allows our veterinary team to perform more accurate and thorough examinations and administer treatments more quickly.

Additionally, PVPs help prevent pets from developing negative associations with veterinary care, which can lead to increasingly difficult future visits. Creating positive experiences at the vet from the start can help ensure that pets feel more relaxed and comfortable during subsequent visits.

What to Expect

Before administering PVPs, we always conduct a thorough assessment of each pet’s needs and health status. We may recommend trying the medication at home before the scheduled appointment to observe its effects and ensure it is well-tolerated by the pet. Pet parents need to monitor their pets for any potential side effects and report back to our team.

Possible side effects of PVPs include increased lethargy, vomiting, diarrhea, changes in appetite, and, in some cases, disinhibition of aggression or paradoxical excitement. However, these side effects are rare and can be managed with proper monitoring and support.

Join Us in Creating Positive Vet Visits

At Pet Health, we’re committed to providing the best possible care for your pet, both physically and emotionally. If you have questions about how pre-visit pharmaceuticals can improve your pet’s veterinary experience, please get in touch with our team. Together, we can ensure that your pet’s vet visits are stress-free and enjoyable experiences for everyone involved.

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Climbing to Calm:
The Power of Treat Ladders in Pet Health Visits

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Welcome, pet parents, to this week’s edition of our Pet Health blog! This month, we’re delving into Fear Free™ techniques and how they enhance the Pet Health experience for pets and their parents.

Fear Free techniques play a pivotal role in reducing or eliminating fear, anxiety, and stress during veterinary visits. Today, we’re educating you on one of these techniques: the Treat Ladder. Join us as we unravel the concept of the Treat Ladder and explore how it’s woven into the fabric of the Pet Health experience.

Pet Health Dog Treat Menu

Pet Health Dog Treat Menu

The Treat Ladder Technique

Have you ever noticed our dog and cat treat menu scrolling on the PowerPoint in our rooms or lobby? That’s just the beginning of our Treat Ladder journey. So, what exactly is a Treat Ladder? Positive reinforcement and rewards are a systematic approach to reducing pet anxiety and stress pets during Pet Health visits.

Here’s how it works: As your pet experiences more challenging or stressful situations (such as a nail trim or blood draw), we distract and try to maintain calm behavior with treats. From crunchy biscuits to savory string cheese, the Treat Ladder offers various rewards tailored to each pet’s needs and preferences.

The benefits are manifold. The Treat Ladder, by building trust and confidence in pets, significantly reduces fear and anxiety. This paves the way for smoother and more enjoyable veterinary experiences, providing a sense of relief for both pets and their parents.

 

Implementing the Treat Ladder at Pet Health

At Pet Health, the Treat Ladder isn’t just a concept; it’s a cornerstone of our approach to care. We kick off each visit with various treats, starting with soft or crunchy options as an introduction to the ladder. This initial step allows us to gauge your pet’s Fear, Anxiety, and Stress (FAS) level.

As the FAS level fluctuates, so too does our treat selection. Higher-stress situations warrant higher-reward treats like turkey hotdogs, spray cheese for dogs, tuna churu, or cream cheese for cats. Personalized care at Pet Health means keeping detailed notes on treat preferences and FAS levels to ensure positive repeat visits.

Empowering pet parents is another crucial aspect of our approach. Treat ladder techniques benefit pets during their veterinary visits and enable pet parents to reinforce positive behaviors at home.

Reflecting on Fear-Free Pet Health Experiences

Since introducing Fear-Free techniques, including our treat menu, in 2022, the response has been overwhelmingly positive. The impact has been remarkable, from pet parents to our dedicated team members and, most importantly, the pets themselves.

We urge all pet parents to actively participate in their pet’s veterinary care and foster open communication with our veterinary team. Together, we can ensure that every visit to Pet Health is stress-free and continue to improve the Pet Health experience. 

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Paws and Claws on the Go:
Dr. B’s Fear-Free Travel Tips for Cats!

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Hey there, fellow feline enthusiasts! Dr. B here, and I’m here to whisk you away on a journey to stress-free travels with your beloved kitties. This July, our focus at Pet Health is all about techniques to reduce fear, anxiety, and stress for our pets, starting from the moment they leave the comfort of their homes. So, grab your cat carrier, stock up on treats, and dive into some travel tips for your feline friends!

Choosing the Purr-fect Carrier:

When it comes to carriers, options abound! Whether it’s a hard or soft carrier, what matters most is your cat’s comfort. Opt for one that gives them enough room to stretch out and turn around but is not so spacious that they feel insecure. Look for carriers with at least two openings, making it easier for your cat to enter and exit and for quick access during examinations at Pet Health. Choose a carrier that can be quickly taken apart, doubling as a cozy bed at home when not in use. With these features, your cat will feel at home on their journey to better health!

Enticing Your Feline Friend:

Getting your cat comfortable with their carrier is key to stress-free travels. Start early—introduce it during kittenhood and make it a cozy spot for naps. Leave the carrier out at all times, without the lid, in a familiar and safe spot, away from noisy appliances. Show your cat how great it is by placing it where they like to lounge. If your cat’s not sold, put some toys in and around the carrier or offer treats and catnip nearby. You can feed them near the carrier to make it an enticing space. Encouragement will make your feline friend see their carrier as a comfy retreat, not a scary transport box!

Prepping for the Big Day:

As you gear up for your Pet Health visit, a few essential preparations can make all the difference. Consider cutting back on your cat’s pre-appointment meals to prevent any tummy troubles on the road. And don’t forget to pack their favorite toys, blankets, and maybe even a comforting item from home to ease their nerves.

Smooth Sailing to Pet Health:

When it’s time to hit the road, set the stage for a serene journey. Turn on soothing tunes, spritz calming pheromones, and ensure the temperature is just right. When walking with the carrier, keep it snug against your chest to minimize any jostling—your kitty will thank you later!

Extra TLC Along the Way:

Ensuring your cat’s journey to Pet Health is smooth sailing involves more than just the travel itself. It’s important to schedule your pet’s appointment during a time when you won’t be busy or have too many other things going on, allowing you to devote your full attention to them. Additionally, budgeting plenty of time to arrive punctually eliminates the stress of rushing.

When you arrive, you can wait in your car rather than in the waiting room, where other pets may be present. Notify us of your arrival, and we can call or text you when your exam room is ready or when we are ready for your pet. This minimizes your cat’s exposure to potentially stressful stimuli and creates a more comfortable environment.

If your feline friend experiences extreme anxiety during travel, our Pet Health veterinarians can recommend and prescribe anti-anxiety supplements or medications tailored to alleviate their distress and ensure a more comfortable experience.

So there you have it, folks – Dr. B’s top-notch travel tips for your whiskered wonders! With a bit of love and a lot of TLC, you and your feline friend can embark on stress-free adventures together. Until next time, happy travels from all of us at Pet Health!

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Buckle Up, Furry Friends:
Dr. B’s Fear-Free Travel Tips for Dogs!

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Hey there, pet parents! Dr. B here, and I’m thrilled to continue our July blog series focusing on techniques to reduce fear, anxiety, and stress for our beloved patients during their visits to Pet Health. And let me tell you, folks, it all starts way before your furry friend even steps into our office – it begins the moment you leave the house! So, grab a leash, load up the treats, and embark on a journey to stress-free travels for your canine companion!

Strap In for Safety

First, let’s talk safety. Like humans, our four-legged pals must buckle up for the ride. Whether it’s a cozy harness, a snug carrier, or a trusty crate, ensure your doggo is securely restrained during the journey. Safety first, always!

Pre-Trip Prep

Now that we’ve covered safety, let’s discuss prepping for the big adventure. Before hitting the road, consider delaying your pup’s mealtime to prevent tummy troubles. And don’t forget to pack the essentials: treats, toys, and maybe even a favorite blanket or two for that extra comfort.

Creating a Zen Zone

As you embark on your journey, setting the scene for a stress-free ride is essential. Cue up some soothing tunes or audiobooks, apply a spritz of calming pheromones in the car, and ensure the temperature is just right for your furry co-pilot. Trust me; they’ll thank you for it!

Smooth Sailing Ahead

Once you’re on the road, keep things chill and relaxed. Minimize distractions and talk to your pup in a soothing voice.  Remember, the journey should be just as enjoyable as the destination!

Extra Tips for a Pawsitive Experience

Before I sign off, here are a few extra tips to ensure a stress-free travel experience for you and your pup:

  • Keep calm and carry on: Remember, pets take cues from their pet parents’ moods, so stay cool, calm, and collected.
  • Timing is everything: Schedule your pet’s appointment when you won’t be rushed or stressed.
  • Plan: Budget plenty of time to arrive at your appointment on time, and consider waiting in your car until we’re ready for you and your pet.
  • Communication is vital: Talk to your pet in a normal, relaxed voice, and let us know if your furry friend needs a little extra TLC during their visit.
  • Don’t hesitate to reach out: If your pet experiences extreme anxiety, our team can recommend supplements or medications to help ease their stress.

And there you have it, folks! With these travel tips in your arsenal, you and your pup will be cruising to Pet Health in style. Safe travels, and we’ll see you soon!

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Nail Trims Unplugged:
Understanding Why Some Pets Just Can’t

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Hey there, fellow pet parents! Dr. B here, ready to dive into a topic close to the hearts (and paws) of many pets: nail trims. While it might seem routine, nail trims can be surprisingly stressful for some pets. Here at Pet Health, we understand the challenges and frustrations that can come with nail trims, so we’re shedding light on this important issue in today’s blog.

Nail trims are not just another task on the veterinary visit checklist; they’re among the least favorite procedures for many pets. Despite our best efforts to make the experience as comfortable as possible, some pets can’t seem to shake off the stress. But fear not! This blog provides valuable insights into why nail trims can be difficult for some pets. We’ll also share the tried and tested techniques we use at Pet Health to help ease anxiety and what to do when nail trims aren’t feasible.

So, if you’ve ever wondered why your pet gets anxious at the sight of nail clippers or how you can make nail trims less traumatic, you’re in the right place. Let’s unravel the mystery behind nail trims and empower our pets to conquer their fears, one paw at a time!

Understanding Pet Anxiety

Nail trims can be challenging for both pets and their parents. At Pet Health, we understand the fear, anxiety, and stress (FAS) that some pets face during this simple procedure. Sensitivity to touch is a common issue, especially when handling the feet and toes—areas that pets aren’t accustomed to having touched. The restraint process can also exacerbate their anxiety, as nail trims require patience and meticulous attention to detail for all 20 toes.

Past negative experiences can also haunt pets during nail trims. Memories of nails clipped too short or previous encounters with forced restraint can create lasting negative associations. Pets often communicate their discomfort through subtle signs of stress, such as trembling, panting, and vocalizing, or more severe signs, such as attempts to escape or aggression.

Fear Free™ Techniques at Pet Health

At Pet Health, we’re dedicated to making nail trims a stress-free experience for every pet. Our approach is rooted in three fundamental goals.

Goal #1: A Personalized Approach – Every pet deserves individualized care. We establish a Fear, Anxiety, and Stress (FAS) score for each pet during every visit. This score allows us to tailor a unique plan for nail trims, addressing each pet’s specific anxieties and stressors.

Goal #2: Creating a Comfortable Environment—A serene atmosphere is key to easing your pet’s nerves. Our journey towards relaxation begins in our quiet and empty lobby, setting the stage for a calming experience in the exam room. During nail trims, we utilize nonslip yoga mats for traction, ensuring stability and security for your pet. Calming scents like lavender and chamomile, along with pheromones, permeate our hospital, further promoting a sense of tranquility.

Goal #3: Gentle Restraint and Positive Reinforcement – Gentle handling and positive reinforcement are central to our approach. We empower your pet by allowing them to choose their preferred position –standing, sitting, or lying down. Plenty of high-reward treats are on hand to distract and create positive associations with nail trims.

Why We Can’t Always Trim Nails

At Pet Health, we prioritize safety and well-being, especially during nail trims, particularly when pets experience high levels of Fear, Anxiety, and Stress (FAS).

Sometimes, despite our best efforts, nail trims may not be feasible. In such cases, our trained team knows when to halt the procedure and reassess the situation. We understand the importance of distinguishing between the needs and wants of our pets. Forcing a nail trim when a pet is highly stressed can exacerbate their anxiety, making future visits more challenging.

It’s essential to recognize that some pets may have an “off day.” Attempting the nail trim at another time or considering a Pre-Visit Pharmaceutical (more on this in a future blog) can significantly improve the pet’s comfort and overall experience.

At-Home Techniques to Help Your Pet

Training puppies might seem ideal, but don’t worry—even older dogs can learn new tricks!

Sight – Start by showing them the nail-trimming tool; reward them with treats when they show interest.

Sounds – Then, create clipping or grinding sounds with dry pasta or a grinder, rewarding their calm behavior.

Sensation – Slowly introduce touch to their paws and nails, gradually squeeze a toe to isolate the nail, and keep rewarding their calm responses. Finally, let them feel the clippers or grinders against a nail and treat them for their bravery.

With consistent practice, these techniques can help make nail trims less scary for your pet.

Open Communication

Above all, fostering open communication between pet parents and veterinary staff is crucial in addressing pet anxiety during nail trims. While nail trims can be challenging, open communication, implementing Fear Free™ techniques, and exploring at-home conditioning methods can significantly improve your pet’s comfort and overall experience.

Decoding Pet Food Labels: Dr. B’s Guide to Making Informed Choices

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Hey there, pet parents! Dr. B here from Pet Health, ready to tackle one of the most confusing aspects of caring for our pets: deciphering pet food labels. You’re not alone if you’ve ever felt overwhelmed standing in the pet food aisle, staring at rows of colorful bags, wondering which is the best choice for your beloved companion. In this blog, I’ll explain the essentials of understanding pet food labels, helping you make informed decisions about what goes into your pet’s bowl. Let’s dive in!

Understanding pet food labels is crucial for ensuring your pet gets the nutrition they need. Rest assured, pet food labels are regulated by both the FDA and AAFCO. The FDA sets federal guidelines for ingredient identification and net quantity statements. At the same time, AAFCO (Association of American Feed Control Officials) establishes specific rules that pet food manufacturers must follow to ensure the quality and safety of your pet’s food.

Before we dive into the nitty-gritty details, let’s address something crucial: the plethora of information plastered on pet food bags. While some are undoubtedly significant, much of it amounts to little more than marketing fluff. I want this blog to focus on the four most critical factors you should consider when scrutinizing pet food labels.

Ingredient List

When deciphering pet food labels, understanding the ingredient list is paramount. The list follows a specific rule: all ingredients must be listed in decreasing order based on weight. It’s crucial to note that the weight of whole meat includes water content, while other ingredients are measured dry. So, what should you be on the lookout for? The same principles apply when selecting food for yourself – prioritize real, wholesome ingredients over artificial additives like coloring or preservatives. Scrutinizing the ingredient list is the first step to ensure your pet receives nourishment from quality sources.

Guaranteed Analysis

Understanding the guaranteed analysis is the next crucial step when deciphering pet food labels. This section provides essential information for pet parents, detailing the levels of key nutrients such as protein, fat, fiber, and moisture. The guaranteed analysis must also specify the amount provided if a product includes vitamin or mineral supplements. It’s essential to note that canned food incorporates water into the guaranteed analysis. For instance, if a dog food label indicates 75% water in the guaranteed analysis, the dry matter content is 25%. This affects the interpretation of other nutrients listed.

Nutritional Adequacy Statement

Understanding the nutritional adequacy statement is my third important step when deciphering pet food labels. This statement confirms whether the pet food is “complete and balanced” or “100% nutritious.” It also indicates if the food does not provide complete nutrition and is not intended to be served as a meal, such as if it’s a topper. Additionally, the statement specifies if the food is formulated for a specific life stage, including gestation/lactation, growth, maintenance, or all life stages. However, it’s crucial to note a particular point regarding foods labeled “All Life Stages.” While marketed for all life stages, these foods are nutritionally equivalent to puppy or kitten food, potentially leading to weight gain in adult pets due to increased calories. Thus, pet parents should exercise caution when selecting food for adult pets labeled as “All Life Stages.”

Feeding Directions

Understanding the feeding directions on pet food labels is my final recommendation.   This is an essential step to maintaining your pet’s optimal weight. These guidelines offer a starting point for determining the appropriate serving size based on breed, age, and activity level. However, it’s essential to recognize that each pet has unique nutritional needs, requiring adjustments to the recommended amounts depending on your pet’s weight changes.   These amounts often decrease as your pet’s age or activity levels change.

You can make informed decisions about your pet’s diet by understanding the ingredient list, guaranteed analysis, nutritional adequacy statement, and feeding directions. Remember, pet food labels are regulated to provide accurate information, but it’s up to you to decipher what matters most for your pet’s health. With this knowledge, you can confidently navigate the pet food aisle and choose the best options for your beloved companion.

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Demystifying Grain-Free Diets: Separating Fact from Fiction

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As we delve into the intricate world of pet nutrition this month, grain-free diets have emerged as a point of contention and concern among veterinarians and pet parents. Grain-free pet foods have gained popularity in recent years, with many pet parents opting for these diets based on various beliefs about their purported benefits. However, recent veterinary studies have shed light on potential health risks associated with grain-free diets, particularly concerning a form of heart disease known as dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM). Let’s explore this topic further and debunk some common grain-free diet myths.

Grain-Free Diets: What You Need to Know

Since 2018, veterinarians have been analyzing the potential link between grain-free diets and DCM in dogs. DCM is a severe heart condition characterized by an enlarged heart and decreased cardiac function, leading to possible complications and reduced quality of life. Some studies have suggested a correlation between grain-free diets and an increased risk of DCM in certain breeds, such as the Cocker Spaniels, Golden Retrievers, Newfoundlands, St. Bernards, English Setters, Irish Wolfhounds, and Portuguese Water Dogs.

Several additional points shed light on the complexities of the grain-free diet debate. In July 2018, the FDA issued a warning regarding diet-associated DCM in dogs, prompting further investigation by veterinary cardiologists. While some studies have implicated diet and taurine deficiency in specific breeds, others have failed to establish a strong association.

Debunking the Grain-Free Food Myth

The notion that grain-free diets are superior for pets is a common misconception that many pet parents have bought into. However, there is no concrete evidence to support the idea that grain-free diets offer any significant health benefits. In fact, food allergies to grains are very uncommon, rendering the exclusion of grains unnecessary for most pets. Additionally, grains serve as a valuable source of essential nutrients such as protein, vitamins, and minerals in pet food formulations. Contrary to popular belief, grains do not contribute to health problems and can contribute positively to a balanced diet for pets.

Guidance for Pet Parents Feeding Grain-Free Diets

If you feed your pet a grain-free diet, it’s essential to be proactive about their health, especially in light of recent concerns surrounding diet-associated heart issues. For dogs showing no clinical signs of cardiac problems and appearing healthy, the simplest and most conservative action is to switch to a diet that includes grains until more definitive information is available regarding the potential risks of grain-free diets.

However, suppose you prefer to keep your pet on a grain-free diet. In that case, it’s advisable to consult with your Pet Health veterinarian and consider conducting an echocardiogram to assess for underlying heart conditions. Testing for taurine levels in the blood is also recommended, particularly for breeds susceptible to taurine deficiency. If myocardial failure is identified or if taurine concentration is low, transitioning to a diet that includes grains and initiating taurine supplementation may be necessary. Seeking guidance from a veterinary cardiologist can also provide further insight and assistance in managing your pet’s diet and overall health.

Navigating Nutrition: Additional Information 

Stay tuned for future blogs this month as we delve into other aspects of pet nutrition, guiding you toward optimal health and well-being for your pet companions. Remember, your pet’s nutrition is crucial to their overall health, so choose wisely and prioritize evidence-based care for your beloved pet.

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Keep Your Pets Safe and Happy This 4th of July: Essential Tips for Pet Parents.

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Hello, pet parents! As we gear up for the upcoming 4th of July weekend, it’s crucial to prioritize the safety and well-being of our pets during Independence Day celebrations. While this holiday brings joy and excitement for us, it can be a source of anxiety and fear for our pets.  Firework blasts, a rare occurrence for most pets, can trigger significant distress due to the sudden and intense noise level and prompt panicked behavior like attempts to escape, which could result in injury or loss. To ensure your pet’s safety and comfort during this festive occasion, we’ve compiled a list of recommendations with the expertise of Dan Rana, a seasoned dog trainer at Canine Advance Training Services in Las Vegas, NV.

Recognizing the Signs of Anxiety in Pets

As responsible pet parents, we must familiarize ourselves with the signs of anxiety in our pet companions, especially during events like the 4th of July. Pay close attention to your pet’s body language, as it can reveal much about their emotional state. Look for subtle cues such as pacing, hiding, panting, a tucked tail, excessive drooling, or abnormal aggression. According to Dan, playing fireworks sounds on various devices is a simple yet effective way to gauge your pet’s sensitivity to fireworks. Start at a lower volume and gradually increase the sound level and frequency to observe your pet’s response. If your pet remains calm and composed, that’s fantastic! However, taking appropriate precautions is essential to ensure their safety and well-being if they exhibit distress or discomfort.

Preparing Your Home and Environment

As we continue to prepare, it’s crucial to create a safe haven for our pets, especially those who display anxiety.  Start by designating a quiet, comfortable area indoors where they can seek refuge from the cacophony of fireworks. This space should be a source of comfort and security, away from windows and doors to minimize exposure to loud noises and flashing lights. Make this space inviting by including familiar comforts such as bedding, toys, and blankets, which can help alleviate anxiety. Additionally, create a calm atmosphere by minimizing noise and distractions, such as closing windows and drawing curtains or blinds. Ensure all windows and doors are securely closed to prevent pets from escaping in response to loud noises. By providing this safe haven, you can help your pets feel relieved and at ease during the celebrations.

Identification and Safety Precautions

Ensuring your pets’ proper identification is another key to their well-being during festivities. Make sure their microchip and ID tags are updated with current contact information. If you’re uncertain about the microchip details, your Pet Health veterinarian can provide a quick scan to confirm everything’s in order. Additionally, when taking your pets outside for bathroom breaks amidst the celebrations, utilize a sturdy leash and harness to keep them secure. These precautions will give you peace of mind, knowing your furry friends are safe and sound during the holiday commotion.

Stress Reduction Techniques

Implementing stress-reduction techniques can help keep your pets calm and comfortable during fireworks displays or other stressful situations. Here are some effective strategies:

  • Provide Distractions: Keep your pets mentally stimulated and occupied with interactive toys or puzzle feeders. Physical activities like playing ball in the park or hiking before the fireworks start can also help them tire out and make them more relaxed.
  • Use Calming Products: Consider using natural calming supplements, pheromone diffusers, or calming wraps to alleviate your pets’ anxiety. Over-the-counter calming therapies, such as alpha-capsazepine, l-tryptophan, l-theanine, and melatonin, have shown scientific evidence of promoting relaxation. Thundershirts, which apply gentle pressure to your pet’s torso, can also release calming hormones like oxytocin or endorphins.
  • Play Soothing Music: Calming music or white noise can drown out loud noises from fireworks and celebrations. At Pet Health, we recommend iCalm dogs and iCalm cats, designed to promote passive listening and reduce overstimulation in pets.
  • Training and Desensitization: Training and desensitization techniques can help your pet improve their fireworks phobia. Dan recommends playing fireworks sounds at a low volume while engaging your pet in enjoyable activities like eating or playing. He then gradually increases the volume and distance of the sounds, rewarding positive behaviors with treats or attention. However, Dan’s most significant recommendation is to prepare at least a month in advance to ensure your pet tolerates these techniques.
  • Medications: In severe cases, consult your Pet Health veterinarian about medications like trazodone, alprazolam, or gabapentin to reduce anxiety during stressful events. These medications and a behavioral modification program can be a game-changer for many pets and their pet parents who dread the 4th of July holiday.

Emergency Preparedness

Finally, as you gear up for Independence Day celebrations, it’s crucial to have a plan in place for your pet’s safety. Ensure you know how to reach local animal shelters and emergency veterinary clinics in case your pet goes missing or gets injured during the festivities. Keep your pet’s recent photo and medical records easily accessible for identification. By being prepared, you can act swiftly and effectively to ensure the well-being of your pets in any emergency.

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Unveiling the Truth: Dr. B’s Guide
to Pet Food Myths Revealed!

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Welcome, pet parents, to Dr. B’s myth-busting blog on pet food! As we delve into June, dedicated to all things nutrition, I thought a good place to start was separating fact from fiction and shedding light on some common misconceptions surrounding what we feed our furry companions. Join me and the Pet Health team on this enlightening journey as we debunk the top five pet food myths, providing evidence-based insights to help you make informed decisions about your pet’s diet.

Myth #1: Dogs are Carnivores and Should be on a Raw Diet

While dogs share some characteristics with carnivores, their dietary classification is omnivores. This means they remain healthy in the wild on a diet consisting of plant and animal foods.

Besides the fact that wild canines can eat plants, several other important considerations must be made when choosing a raw diet.

Nutritional Deficiencies: Raw diets, if not carefully formulated, can lead to serious nutritional deficiencies, posing a risk to your dog’s health.

Bone Risks: Feeding bones in raw diets can pose risks of obstructions, constipation, and tooth fractures.

Bacterial Contamination: Raw food carries a significant risk of bacterial contamination, such as Salmonella and E. coli, which can harm pets and humans.

Lack of Scientific Evidence: It’s important to note that despite the claims, there is a significant lack of solid scientific evidence supporting the purported benefits of raw diets.

Myth #2: Corn is a Filler and a Major Cause of Pet Allergies

Contrary to popular belief, corn is not just a filler in pet food. Corn provides a highly available source of complex carbohydrates, essential fatty acids like linoleic acid, essential amino acids, and fiber. Corn can be highly digestible when adequately processed, ensuring that pets can absorb vital nutrients for optimal health.

Secondly, corn is not a common cause of pet food allergies. Documented allergies to corn are quite rare. The ingredients most frequently associated with adverse reactions in dogs include beef, dairy products, and wheat; in cats, beef, dairy products, and fish are top of the list. In fact, actual food allergies are estimated to be responsible for only 1% of pet skin disease cases.

Myth #3: Foods That Contain By-Products Should Be Avoided

By-products are simply the secondary products created during the manufacturing process of something else. Like cheese and butter are by-products of human milk production, pet food by-products can be an excellent source of nutrients for our furry friends.

Contrary to popular belief, many by-products, such as organ meats, provide exceptional nutritional value compared to non-by-product counterparts. These include parts like lungs, spleen, kidneys, brains, livers, stomachs, and intestines – all rich in essential amino acids, minerals, and vitamins crucial for pets’ well-being.

Not only are by-products nutrient-dense, but they’re also more palatable for pets than skeletal muscle meat. Many popular dog treats like bully sticks (this is a bull penis), pig ears, and tendons fall under the by-product category.

Myth #4: All Dogs Have Allergies to Chicken

Contrary to popular belief, not all dogs are allergic to chicken. Actual cases of pet food allergies are rare, affecting less than 1% of all skin disease cases and only 15% of confirmed food allergen cases—that’s one out of an estimated 750 dogs! Symptoms of food allergies can vary widely, from itchy skin to chronic ear infections and gastrointestinal issues like vomiting or diarrhea.

A comprehensive review of 297 dogs found that while chicken is a common allergen (reported in 15% of cases), other culprits include beef, dairy products, wheat, lamb, soy, corn, egg, pork, fish, and rice.

Have I seen improvement in pets with chicken eliminated from their diet? Absolutely! However, it’s essential to remember that your pet can have allergies to other proteins or even multiple proteins. The only way to pinpoint a food allergy is through a strict diet trial recommended by your Pet Health veterinarian. This trial typically lasts at least eight weeks and requires total commitment from the pet’s family.

Myth #5: A “Holistic” Pet Food is Better for My Pet

Many pet parents are led to believe that pet foods labeled as “holistic” contain only the most wholesome ingredients for their pets. However, here’s the catch: the term “holistic” is not defined by AAFCO (Association of American Feed Control Officials). Pet food companies can slap the label on their packaging without meeting specific criteria.

In reality, using “holistic” in pet food marketing is more about selling than substance. There’s no solid evidence to prove that these diets offer superior benefits to pets. Instead, it’s a clever marketing tool to entice consumers to choose one brand over another.

As we wrap up our myth-busting adventure, remember that knowledge is power regarding your pet’s nutrition. Don’t be swayed by marketing tactics or trendy buzzwords. Instead, focus on evidence-based nutrition and consult your Pet Health veterinarian for personalized guidance. Stay tuned for more informative content throughout June, which is dedicated to helping you nourish your pet’s health and well-being!

 

Puppy Vaccines - 2

Mastering Potty Training: A Guide for Pet Parents

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Embarking on the journey of potty training your new puppy can feel like navigating uncharted territory. However, with the proper guidance and understanding, you can set your furry friend on the path to success. We sat down with Dan Rana, a seasoned dog trainer at Canine Advance Training Services in Las Vegas, NV, to glean insights into the fundamental principles and best practices for potty training puppies.

Meet Dan Rana:

Dan’s passion for canine behavior blossomed during his time in Texas, where he embarked on a journey to deepen his understanding of dog training and behavior. Now, with over a decade of experience and a pack of four adorable miniature dachshunds by his side, Dan brings his expertise to Pet Health, serving as our go-to resource for all things behavioral and training-related. For more information about Dan’s training services, visit his website at Positively Trained LV.

Fundamental Principles of Potty Training:

According to Dan, the cornerstone of successful potty training lies in structure and schedule. Establishing a consistent routine for feeding, play, naps, and exercise helps predict your puppy’s bathroom needs. The structure extends beyond time and encompasses activities and the environment, providing pet parents and puppies stability.

Common Mistakes to Avoid:

One of pet parents’ most common mistakes is granting their puppies too much freedom and time during potty training. Without proper supervision and boundaries, accidents are bound to happen. Striking a balance between freedom and supervision is essential to setting your puppy up for success.

Establishing a Consistent Routine:

Dan advises pet parents to create a potty log documenting their puppy’s bathroom habits throughout the day, including accidents. Consistency in daily routines simplifies the potty-training process and fosters a conducive environment for learning.

Click to Download Pet Health’s Potty Training Log

Reinforcing Good Habits:

Positive reinforcement is critical to reinforcing good potty habits and deterring accidents. Utilizing treats, praise, and affection when your puppy goes where and when you want them to help solidify desired behaviors. In the event of accidents, calmly redirect your puppy to the designated potty area to reinforce the desired behavior.

Recommended Methods:

Dan advocates for positive potty-training methods, emphasizing the importance of crate training when used appropriately. A crate or confined area can be valuable in reinforcing good potty habits and preventing accidents when pet parents cannot supervise their puppies.

Home Practices for Improvement:

Consistency is paramount in potty training at home. Maintaining a simple and consistent schedule for feeding, play, naps, and exercise facilitates your puppy’s understanding of bathroom expectations. An accurate potty log helps identify patterns and adjust the training approach.

Seeking Professional Help:

While potty training is a gradual process, pet parents should seek professional help if progress stagnates despite consistent efforts. Dan encourages pet parents to contact trainers for guidance and support, emphasizing patience and consistency as the keys to overcoming potty training challenges.

Mastering potty training requires dedication, patience, and a clear understanding of your puppy’s needs. By implementing the principles and practices outlined by Dan Rana, you can set your puppy on the path to potty training success and foster a strong bond built on trust and communication.