Pet Talk
First-Time Alpaca Ownership: Preparing Their New Home
Buying and raising alpacas can be alluring, yet prospective owners should make special living preparations that will keep these fleece animals comfortable when they reach their new home. Dr. Dusty Nagy, a clinical associate professor at the Texas A&M School of Veterinary Medicine & Biomedical Sciences, says owners should specifically consider shelters, grazing land, and coat […]
First-Time Alpaca Ownership: What To Consider Before Buying
Cute faces, fluffy bodies, and calm attitudes are among the reasons alpacas have gained popularity as fun and unique pets. “Many people choose to have alpacas as an alternative livestock animal,” explained Dr. Dusty Nagy, a clinical associate professor at the Texas A&M School of Veterinary Medicine & Biomedical Sciences. “They are relatively small and respect […]
Creating A Disaster Preparedness Plan For Your Pets
Recently, Texas Gov. Greg Abbott announced a wildfire disaster declaration for about 75% of the state’s counties and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration also released an updated hurricane season outlook that includes a 70% chance of 14-21 named storms before the season ends in November. With these potential weather threats in mind, now is […]
Knowing Requirements For Your Pet’s Rabies Vaccination
Routine vaccinations are an essential part of your pet’s veterinary care, and veterinarians typically guide owners on how often your pet needs which shots. In the case of rabies, however, owners may be asked by their veterinarian if they prefer a vaccine that lasts one year or three years. “The differences between one-year and three-year […]
Recognizing When Your Pig Has A Skin Condition
As the summer heat continues to simmer, the risk of painful sunburns continues to be a concern as well. This is true for humans but also for animals like pigs, whose skin not only closely resembles that of humans but is more sensitive to dermatological diseases. Because of this, Dr. Jake Trautmann, a veterinary resident […]
Keeping Dogs Cool For The Summer To Prevent Heatstrokes
Summer’s infamous heat has sent temperatures soaring to record highs this year, so it’s important to protect our furry friends from heat-related issues as the weather grows more uncomfortably hot. Dr. Gabriela Rivas, a veterinary resident in emergency and critical care at the Texas A&M School of Veterinary Medicine & Biomedical Sciences, says dogs can […]
Spotting The Difference Between Urine Marking And Urinary Problems
Once pets have learned to urinate where it is appropriate, whether it is outdoors or in their litter box, it can be frustrating for owners when their pet urinates elsewhere in the house. While your first instinct may be to reprimand them for the unwanted behavior, you should first consider if they are simply marking […]
Managing Compulsive Disorders In Dogs And Cats
Dogs and cats who cannot be distracted from an activity, such as biting or chasing imaginary objects, may be experiencing a compulsive disorder, especially when their behavior prevents them from maintaining their daily routine. Because compulsive disorders are a sign of mental stress and can escalate to physical harm if left untreated, owners should learn […]
Recognizing Compulsive Disorders In Dogs And Cats
Pet owners may think it is adorable when their dog chases its tail or their cat suckles for comfort. But when these activities are persistent to the point that it disrupts their daily routines, it may be a sign that your pet has a more serious issue. In humans, obsessive-compulsive disorders (OCDs) are developed when […]
Offering Spoiled Food Is No Way To Spoil Your Pet
People may choose to eat foods past their expiration date, as long as the food looks and smells good, but that doesn’t mean this practice is safe for pet food. Ensuring pet food is suitable to eat is the first step to preventing your dog or cat from becoming ill. Dr. Katie Tolbert, a clinical […]
