2015 has been the first full year of social media for me, and it is still an adjustment. I’d like to get more traffic onto our Facebook Page, so if you are a member, visit our page and ‘like’ us. I try and post local lost and found pets through the Orillia SPCA, so every little bit of exposure helps. … Read More
Spring is finally here!
It is time to get outdoors and enjoy some warmer temperatures. Most dogs had limited exercise over the cold winter, so be sure to ease them into physical activity. Check out this link for more detailed information on fitness and conditioning.
Keeping your pet out of trouble during the holidays Part 2
Dietary indiscretion is the term we use to describe what happens when your pet eats something that doesn’t agree with them. The result is usually vomiting, diarrhea or a combination of both.
Keeping your pet out of trouble during the holidays Part 1
The holiday season is fast approaching, and year after year I see a similar pattern in emergencies that occur during this time. In Part 1, I will address concerns that are less common than the usual vomiting and diarrhea that accompanies dietary indiscretion.
Ear infections
Ear infections (otitis externa) are a common occurrence in our pets and can cause scratching, rubbing, and head shaking. Some pet owners will notice a dirty ear that needs to be cleaned all the time. A normal, healthy ear needs no intervention, so a build up of wax means something is wrong.
What is a lick granuloma?
When a dog constantly licks an area of skin, they can create a bald, red and often thickened patch of skin that we call a lick granuloma.
Itchy pets
This is the time of year when I see a lot of itchy pets, dogs in particular. There are a number of environmental factors in late summer and fall that affect the skin and cause itching.
Canine hot spots
While many welcome the advent of hot weather, the combination of heat and humidity increases the incidence of skin issues in our pets.
Keeping your pet fit
Fitness is something we take for granted in our pets. Most young pets are more active than their owners, but older pets can lose their enthusiasm for play and become more sedate. If the food amount stays the same, the end result is weight gain. Over feeding contributes to weight gain, but so does under exercising.
Focus on parasites
With the arrival of spring, it is time to turn our attention to parasite detection and prevention. After a long winter, more than just the crocuses are waking up.