Diagnosing cruciate disease in dogs

IMG_5597

There are two cruciate ligaments in each leg. They connect the thigh bone (femur) to the shin bone (tibia), crisscrossing in the knee. In dogs, these ligaments are called the cranial cruciate ligament and the caudal cruciate ligament. A rupture almost always involves the cranial cruciate ligament, which is analogous to an anterior cruciate ligament … [Read more...]

Why is my pet so itchy?

allergy-test-in-progress

The most common causes of itching in dogs and cats are environmental allergies, food allergies and skin parasites like mites or fleas. Studies have shown that environmental and food allergy symptoms will look the same, so further diagnostic assessment is usually necessary to determine the underlying cause of your pet’s itching. While a variety … [Read more...]

Moving tips for dog owners

shutterstock_68910700

Dogs are said to be man’s best friend and whether this is true or not your pet will need some special attention on moving day to make sure she doesn’t become your worst nightmare. Following these recommendations from professional movers will make your dog’s move painless for everybody: 1         Do not try to move your dog in the … [Read more...]

Hydrotherapy for dogs

IMG_5522

Veterinarians across Canada are increasingly recognizing the importance of hydrotherapy for dogs. Canine hydrotherapy involves a variety of physical therapy treatments performed in an aquatic environment. It can be an essential rehabilitation tool for treating dogs recovering from injury or surgery. Aging pets suffering from arthritis or geriatric … [Read more...]

Does your pet have arthritis?

era3

It’s not uncommon for pets to slow down as they age, but sometimes these changes in behaviour can be a sign that your pet may have a medical condition like arthritis. How can you tell if your pet has arthritis? If you suspect there might be something at work besides the natural aging process, it’s a good idea to take your four-legged family … [Read more...]

Why your cat should be an indoor cat

shutterstock_101460553

Many cat owners are under the misconception that cats are born to be outside. Cats face many dangerous challenges when left to wander the streets day or night. Here are some good reasons to keep kitty inside: Many cat owners do not realize that cats are susceptible to certain diseases that can be contracted when outdoors. Even if up … [Read more...]

Cherishing our beloved pets

Crystal-Magic-Designs26

There comes a time in every pet owner’s life when we must say goodbye to our adored pets. Losing a loved one is never easy and our pets become just that over the years spent together. They fill an otherwise empty piece of the pet owner’s heart. They become our trusted companions; they’re always there to snuggle up with or talk to when needed. … [Read more...]

Does my dog need obedience training?

shutterstock_87197968

True dog lovers may not realize that some of their dog’s actions are considered “bad” behaviour. If your dog does any of the following socially, they may be misbehaving: If your dog has a tendency to bark at every Tom, Dick and Harry that passes by your house, this can be very annoying to neighbours and passers by. If your dog … [Read more...]

Know how to move your pets

shutterstock_88029340

Moving your family can be a stressful experience for your loved ones, your friends and your co-workers. It is also a very stressful experience for your pets. They feel the stress of relocation in much the same way as we do. So how do you make the experience easier for them? Understanding how best to take care of them before, during and after the … [Read more...]

Pet watch: Is your dog or cat obese?

shutterstock_38094919

Have you noticed that your dog can’t run as fast or walk as far as he/she used to? Do you groan when your cat jumps on your lap? Well, there’s a possibility that your favourite pet might be overweight. Statistics from the Association for the Prevention of Pet Obesity, www.petobesityprevention.com show that an estimated 45 percent of dogs and … [Read more...]