Pet Talk
Heartworm Disease in Dogs
Many dog owners have heard of heartworm disease but may not fully understand how the disease develops. Some owners may even question if an annual test for heartworm disease is necessary. Dr. Sonya Wesselowski, clinical assistant professor of cardiology at the Texas A&M College of Veterinary Medicine & Biomedical Sciences, said testing for heartworm disease […]
Pet Health and Safety
Many of us consider our animals a member of the family, but this does not always mean treating them like humans. For example, there are many unhealthy habits humans choose to indulge in that can harm pets — including smoking, drinking, and a lack of regular exercise. Unlike people, animals are unable to make the […]
Pets with Disabilities: Blindness in Dogs
Some dogs are born blind while others develop blindness over time from age and disease. No matter the situation, blind dogs are just as loveable and playful as dogs with excellent eyesight. Dr. Lucien Vallone, clinical assistant professor at the Texas A&M College of Veterinary Medicine & Biomedical Sciences, cleared up some confusion about caring […]
My Dog was Sprayed by a Skunk—Now What?
The awful smell caused by a skunk spray is no joke. Every dog owner knows to keep their dog away from skunks at all costs—but sometimes Fido has other plans. With warmer weather approaching, skunks are becoming more active at dawn and dusk. Are you prepared for a potential skunk spray? Skunks are omnivores, meaning […]
Pet Trade Troubles
Many people are fascinated with non-domestic animals—whether exotic or native species—and think these animals would make great pets. However, non-domestic animals, including certain species of snakes and tortoises, do not make great additions to households despite being included in the pet trade. In fact, it may cause more harm than good to bring a non-domestic […]
Dental Hygiene in Dogs and Cats
Most of us know oral hygiene can play a critical role in a person’s overall health; but did you know the same applies for your furry friends? Humans schedule regular dental cleanings to keep their gums and teeth healthy, but dental health in dogs and cats may be overlooked by pet owners. Dr. J.R. “Bert” […]
Choosing the Right Food for your Furry Friend
Many pet owners are becoming more conscious of the quality of food they are feeding their pets, but it is often difficult to determine what constitutes a healthy and nutritious meal. A dog or cat’s nutritional requirements vary based on age and health, which may leave some pet owners questioning how to choose the right […]
Feline Lower Urinary Tract Disease
Recognizing irregular behavior is one of the most common methods pet owners use to determine if their cat may be sick or in pain. One behavior that should be closely regulated is urinary behavior. Keeping track of urination habits helps prevent conditions such as feline lower urinary tract disease (FLUTD), an umbrella term that refers […]
Common Feline Skin Conditions
Being familiar with the signs of common skin irritations and conditions in your feline companion is important for your cat’s health. Certain skin problems could be sign of a more complicated underlying issue, such as physical pain, discomfort, or infection. According to Dr. Alison Diesel, clinical assistant professor at the Texas A&M College of Veterinary […]
Your Dog May Protect You from Heart Disease
According to the American Heart Association, there have been reported associations between pet ownership and cardiovascular health in the last decade. Owning pets — specifically dogs — may help reduce the risk of heart disease in pet owners in a number of ways. In addition to companionship, dogs can encourage laughter, physical activity, and other […]