• Is My Guinea Pig Sick?

    In the wild, guinea pigs are prey animals who live in packs. They instinctively try to hide the signs of illnesses, so guinea pig parents must be especially vigilant. Since sick pigs can go downhill very quickly, it’s essential to have your pet evaluated by a veterinarian in Cupertino as soon as you notice something’s wrong. Gut stasis is one of the most serious acute conditions that affect cavies. Guinea pigs need to have high-quality hay constantly moving through their bodies. When gut motility slows or stops, it is known as gut stasis.

    Bring your pig to the vet immediately if you notice that he or she hasn’t been pooping much, suffers appetite loss, or seems less active than usual. It’s helpful to clean your cavy’s house at around the same time each day. This allows you to get a sense of how much poop should be there, and you will be able to detect signs of illness more quickly. Additionally, be on the lookout for the following changes in your pig, which can indicate other types of ailments: Fur loss, hunched posture, diarrhea, bloody urine, labored breathing, wheezing, sneezing, and eye crusting. These symptoms can be alarming, but your vet can help your pig feel well again if treatment is administered right away.

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  • Parasites in Pets: The Importance of Prevention

    Parasites , both external and internal, are dangerous for your pets. In some cases, parasites can even transmit or cause life-threatening conditions. Although treatments are available for many kinds of parasites, preventing them is the most effective strategy. Talk to your vet in San Jose about what parasite prevention medications you should be using with your pet.

    For external parasites, such as fleas and ticks, your vet may recommend a topical or oral medication taken once per month to discourage infestation. Internal parasites, including heartworm, may also be prevented with medications. If your vet does prescribe preventative heartworm, tick, and flea medications, be sure to administer them as instructed. If you miss a dose or delay a dose, your pet could be at risk. Even if your pet is on preventive treatment, inspect him or her regularly for signs of parasites. If your pet has a parasitic infection, early treatment can be life-saving.

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  • Top Ways to Keep Your Canine Healthy This Summer

    For dogs, summer isn’t all fun and games. Fleas and ticks abound, fireworks can be scary, and dehydration and overheating can happen quickly under a hot sun. Knowing which health risks your dog faces during the summer months is half the battle. A vet near you in San Jose can help you keep your canine companion happy and healthy all year-round. dog - glasses

    Prevent flea and tick bites.

    Although fleas and ticks are often thought of as summertime nuisances, flea and tick control is important every month of the year. Your vet can recommend safe and effective products for your dog. If you already have an infestation, it’ll take a little more work to protect your pet. You’ll need to vacuum and clean, and spray products all around your home—and you’ll have to treat your yard, too. It’s easier and far less time-intensive to give your pet the preventive products he or she needs all year-round.

    Soothe your dog during fireworks displays.

    Even if your pup is brave during thunderstorms, fireworks displays are likely a different story. The noise is unnatural to a dog’s sensitive ears, and running away is a natural response . If you plan to attend a fireworks show, leave your faithful friend at home. Try to find out in advance if there will be fireworks anywhere near your home that your dog could hear. If so, perhaps you could take him or her to a friend’s house or a boarding kennel. Otherwise, let your dog stay in a travel kennel at home and provide lots of reassurance during the show. Keep a leash on your pup when it’s time for a trip out to the yard, as the noises can cause him or her to run away.

    Keep your canine hydrated.

    Dehydration and overheating are serious risks for dogs in the summer, as they can only sweat in limited amounts through their paws. This isn’t enough to keep them cool. Protect your furry friend with the following essential steps:

    • Never leave your dog alone in a vehicle, not even for a few minutes.
    • Provide 24/7 access to clean, cool water.
    • Don’t leave your dog outside for a long time.
    • Take walks during the morning or evening.
    • Keep your dog off of hot roadways and/or use dog booties.
    • Schedule a visit with the groomer.

    On very hot days, designate one room in your home as a cool-off zone. Run the air conditioner or let your pup chill out in front of a fan.

  • Tips for Bringing Your Dog on Your Camping Trip

    Many people embrace summer weather by planning family getaways. However, not all vacation spots are accommodating for pets. Luckily, camping offers you a great way to involve your dog in your next family adventure. If you’re gearing up for a trip to the woods with your canine companion, then continue reading for tips that your veterinarian near Cupertino might offer for keeping your dog happy and healthy while camping. dog - camping

    Be Sure That Camping Is a Good Fit

    Before embarking on an adventure to the woods, consider your dog’s habits and health. For example, a canine who barks incessantly, does not respond to commands, dislikes being leashed, or becomes easily stressed may not be a good fit for a campground or road trip. Also, if your dog doesn’t get along with other pets, then keep in mind that there may be other dogs at the campground or on the hiking trails that you plan to use. Finally, if your pet has medical issues and may require veterinary care, then bringing him along may be a bad decision.

    Update Your Dog’s Identification and Vaccinations

    Before bringing your dog camping, call his veterinarian to learn if he is up-to-date on his vaccinations and if there are additional ones he may need for your trip. Also, it’s a good idea to begin flea and tick treatment before you go camping to help protect your pet against issues like Lyme disease. Finally, in case you become separated, be sure that your pet is microchipped and that his ID tags have accurate information.

    Remember to Pack Some Important Items

    First, be sure to bring your dog’s collar, ID tags, food, dishes, bedding, crate, medications, and waste bags. To help prevent your pet from running off, you’ll need a leash for walking plus a long leash and stake for tethering. Also, depending on the weather, you may want to pack a dog jacket and set of booties. Lastly, other items you should consider bringing include a towel, canine first aid kit, dog brush, and illuminated collar.

  • Choosing a Pet That Will Get Along with Your Cat

    Some of the most common questions heard by veterinarians in San Jose are about helping pets get along with one another. If you’re a cat owner and want to add another critter to your family, then watch this video for tips on choosing a pet that will get along with your feline.

    Are you planning to adopt another cat? If so, then ask your veterinarian for advice on selecting one that would be a good fit for your cat’s temperament. If you want to get a new pet of a different species, then bear in mind that cats are natural hunters and may view a pet bird or rodent as prey. Finally, if you’re planning to add a dog to your family, then ensure that your cat has space for herself and plenty of alone time with you.

  • Don’t Wait Until Your Pet Is Sick

    Just like with humans, regular checkups can help ensure the long-term health and happiness of your pet. Unfortunately, it’s not uncommon for people to wait until something is wrong with their pet to bring them to see a veterinarian near Cupertino. To help protect your pet’s health, you should take him to see his vet once or twice per year for a pet wellness exam .

    When you bring your pet in for a wellness checkup, you can ask any questions that you have about your pet’s care and health. Also, your pet’s veterinarian will examine him and may provide parasite prevention, dental care, allergy treatment, or flea control services that can help prevent a range of health conditions. Prevention is important when it comes to protecting your pet’s health long-term, and one of the best ways to practice prevention is to bring your pet in before he is unwell. If it’s been more than a year since your pet’s last wellness exam, then consider scheduling an appointment today.

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  • Understanding the Responsibility of Owning an Exotic Animal

    Owning an exotic pet can be a rewarding experience, but it is also a major responsibility. These pets require a special level of care for both their safety and your own. Before you get an exotic animal as a pet, it could be helpful to discuss your options with a vet in San Jose so you understand exactly what will be required of you. Here is a look at some of the responsibilities you may have to face if you choose an exotic pet. exotic - pet

    Special Enclosures

    Depending on the type of exotic animal you choose, you may need a special enclosure to hold your pet and prevent it from roaming freely. It should be strong enough that your pet cannot escape and spacious enough so that it comfortable. Although you may wish to keep your pet loose as often as possible, with some types of animals, this is a safety issue, and in other instances, keeping them enclosed is necessary because of kids and visitors to your home. Talk to your vet about whether it is safe for your pet and you to allow it to roam freely and what kind of enclosure is appropriate for your pet’s needs.

    Unique Nutritional Requirements

    Many exotic animals have nutritional needs that can’t be met in the pet food aisle of your local grocery store. In some cases, you may need to find a specialty supplier to get the food your pet needs, which may include things like insects and rodents. In addition to requiring extra planning, these nutritional needs can become expensive, so it is important to ensure that you are financially capable of getting the food your exotic pet needs.

    Specialty Pet Care

    Not every veterinarian is trained in caring for exotic pets, and among those who are, not every vet can provide care for every kind of exotic animal. Before you get an exotic pet, it can be helpful to find an animal care clinic in your area that can provide both preventative and acute care for your pet, so you can ensure that your animal thrives.

  • Treating a Dog with a Cold

    Whether you have pets with allergies near San Jose, or you suspect they have a cold, consult your veterinarian on the best way to treat it. Until your appointment, watch this video for a few suggestions.

    When your dog is sneezing or coughing, and she just doesn’t seem to feel well, you’ll want to call your animal care clinic for a vet appointment. Your veterinarian will check for a respiratory infection, and if one is present, probably prescribe an antihistamine or antibiotic. Whenever your pet is feeling under the weather, try your best to keep fluids in her so she can maintain her strength until the illness is gone.

  • Symptoms of Food Allergies in Dogs

    It can initially be difficult to determine that you have a pet with allergies in Cupertino without the assistance of your veterinarian. Food allergy symptoms in pets can sometimes mimic other illnesses, like dermatitis, gastroenteritis, a cold, or kennel cough; however, food allergies can turn deadly without intervention from an emergency vet. Here are some of the primary symptoms of food allergies in dogs.

    Allergies in Dogs

    Skin Irritations and Itching

    One of the earliest symptoms of a food allergy, and the mildest symptom, is skin irritation and itching. Your dog may develop a skin rash or hives after eating a substance to which he is allergic. He may obsessively lick or bite his paws or skin, and scratch constantly to relieve the itching. His skin will become red and inflamed, and he may develop patches of hair loss. Without veterinary care, he is at risk for skin infections, sores, and scarring.

    Intense Digestive Distress

    A more serious symptom that is often seen in pets with allergies is intense digestive distress. Your dog will vomit or have diarrhea regularly, and this can occur even hours after eating. Your dog may also become bloated, or exhibit excessive flatulence. Bloating, vomiting, and diarrhea are also symptoms of other illnesses that range from mild to extremely dangerous, including food intolerance, colitis, inflammatory bowel disease, salmonella, E. coli, bloat, Parvo, or a parasitic infection. If your dog experiences regular or prolonged bouts of vomiting or diarrhea, it’s important to take him to a pet hospital to be evaluated by a veterinarian as soon as possible.

    Respiratory Issues

    Another common symptom seen in pets with allergies is respiratory distress. This can range from mild to severe, and you should carefully monitor your dog’s symptoms. He may cough, wheeze, or sneeze regularly, or he may have intense respiratory distress that severely limits his ability to breathe. If your dog doesn’t seem to be breathing well on his own, you should take him to an emergency vet at an animal hospital immediately.

  • Signs Your Dog May Have Seasonal Allergies

    Just like humans, pets can suffer from seasonal allergies. Pets with allergies ought to be examined promptly by a vet near Cupertino. Your dog’s vet may recommend dietary changes and frequent bathing to help him or her enjoy symptom relief. It’s also important to minimize your dog’s exposure to allergen triggers by washing his or her paws after time outdoors and by keeping the doggy bed very clean. Continue reading to learn about the common signs of seasonal allergies in dogs. Does Your Pet Have Seasonal Allergies?

    Skin Problems

    Be sure to tell your vet about all of your dog’s symptoms, even if they do not appear to be related to seasonal allergies. Skin irritation is among the most common symptoms of allergies in pets. Your dog’s skin may display redness or rashes. You may notice that your dog scratches more than usual. Itchy skin and scratching can lead to fur loss. Seasonal and other environmental allergies generally lead to fur loss on the face, ears, and paws, while fur loss on the tail and hindquarters may indicate the presence of fleas. In addition to skin irritation and itchiness, dogs with seasonal allergies may also suffer from frequent skin and ear infections.

    Runny Eyes

    If you have seasonal allergies, you may suffer from excessive tearing, redness, and crusting of your eyes. The same symptoms can affect your four-legged friend, so be sure to report any signs of eye irritation to your veterinarian.

    Respiratory Symptoms

    Another possible indicator of seasonal allergies involves your dog’s respiration. Your pet may sneeze, cough, and wheeze frequently, particularly after being outdoors where he or she is exposed to possible allergens. These symptoms are caused by nasal and throat inflammation. Throat inflammation may also cause snoring. However, most dogs with seasonal allergies will display symptoms that affect the skin, rather than the respiratory system.