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From vacations to holidays, many of us are on the go through the summer months, so there is a good chance pet sitting will be required. While some pet owners appreciate the accessibility, social opportunities, and attention received in boarding, others may choose to hire a professional pet sitter.

In-home pet sitting can be a great option for pets who do not do well with travel or boarding due to behavioral challenges, old age, or simply that is less stressful for some pets to remain in the home. In-home pet sitting also adds the advantage of having the house occupied while you are away.

Whether you are a newbie to these services or a jet-setter who relies on a pet sitter for the care of a fur friend, here are some tips for creating a good experience for all. Continue…

Let’s face it, if it was up to most pets, the great outdoors would be free to all, and roamed by many a fur friend. Afterall, time outside can provide much needed mental and behavioral enrichment—from watching birds to breathing in the fresh air.

But, as responsible cat owners, we know being indoors is generally safer for our pets, protecting them from disease, predation, and accident.

The good news is this doesn’t mean you can’t ever allow your cat outdoors. With some added safety precautions, you can enjoy the fresh air and sunshine with your favorite whiskered companion. Continue…

There’s nothing more inviting than the cool, aqua-blue water of a pool or the rolling tides at your favorite beach. However, pet swimming safety should be a priority for all owners when the desire to hang ten includes your best fur pal. With an estimated 5,000 drownings each year, pet swimming safety should be on the mind of every concerned pet parent. Continue…

Although Lyme disease is no stranger to the limelight, this vector-borne illness remains abstract to millions of people and their pets. If you’ve neither seen a tick before or experienced Lyme disease first hand, this topic may be somewhat mysterious. However, in a relatively small window (approximately 1-2 days), mystery can morph into full-blown misery for a pet bitten by an infected tick.

Because Lyme disease can harm both pets and people, prevention is vital. That’s why our team has gathered the following information about Lyme disease in pets. Continue…

For those of us who adore our furry friends, one summer pet safety concern is the need for grooming. Summer pet grooming (i.e., short or cropped cuts) is thought to be the answer to keeping your dog or cat cool when temps start to rise. But how short is too short, and what type of grooming is truly necessary? Continue…

When we think of diabetes, the family pet is probably not what comes to mind. Unfortunately, this serious condition is on the rise, in both humans and pets. Current statistics show that roughly 1 in 500 pet dogs and cats in the U.S. suffer from diabetes.

Diabetes in pets can lead to a host of serious health complications for them, it’s important for pet owners to learn all they can about the signs of this disease, as well as how to prevent it. Continue…

Persistent scratching of the ears is one of the most commonly observed symptoms of pet ear problems. From seasonal allergies to the increased presence of parasites, springtime seems to inspire itching. Unfortunately, ear problems can inflict more serious damage if left untreated. Continue…

In The Wizard of Oz, Dorothy fears the worst when embarking on the yellow brick road: lions, tigers, and bears (oh, my!). She eventually realizes her fears were unfounded, allowing her to bravely handle anything that comes her way.

Similarly, the team at Leon Valley Veterinary Hospital wants to prepare our pet-loving community for seasonal threats. With equal measures of planning and caution, summer pet safety is easily attainable. Continue…

There are few things worse than animal abuse, but do you know how to spot when an animal is being abused or neglected? Exploring this topic can be uncomfortable, but the prevention of animal abuse is achieved only through discussion and awareness. When we all work together, we can help pets in need. There’s nothing better than that! Continue…

As Kermit once lamented, “It’s not easy being green.” Many of us drive cars, collect plastic bags by the thousands, and occasionally don’t scoop the poop (cringe). However, being an eco-friendly pet owner can be a lot easier by making a few simple choices. Continue…