Posts Tagged: pet care
But Who Gets The Pets? Planning For Pets In A Divorce Or Breakup
Who gets the kids? The house? The car? And…the dog? For over 70% of pet owners, our animals are considered to be part of the family. So it’s natural to assume that if the family separates, that the pets will be part of custody hearings.
Research shows that in 38% of divorce proceedings, neither party wants to give up their four legged “children.” Because the law views pets as property, just as furniture or real estate, this has caused a legal crisis which begs the question: who gets the pets in a divorce?
Times, They Are A-Changin’
It’s likely that the case of who gets the pets in a divorce would be up to the interpretation of the individual judge. Although the laws in Texas primarily consider pets to be nothing more than property, in certain states the laws are being challenged and updated.
Zoonotic Illnesses Can Harm You and Your Pet
The term “zoonotic” is something you might have heard before, as more cases of zoonotic illnesses have been reported over the past decade. Probably the most well known zoonotic illness is rabies. More recently, the spread of leptospirosis has garnered the attention of pet owners and has put a spotlight on illnesses that can be spread from pets to people.
Because zoonotic illnesses are something that will never be totally eradicated, it’s important to understand what these diseases are and how you can protect you and your family members, including your four-legged ones.
Choosing the Right Water and Food Bowls for Your Pet
Most of us would agree that good nutrition is important for every pet, but have you ever thought about your pet’s bowl? Likely not. After all, your ever-hungry lab is less than discriminating about where their food comes from. A paper plate? No problem! The trash can? You bet! Pets probably don’t consider much beyond the contents that they will readily eat.
Your choice in water and food bowls is actually important for a number of reasons, including health. To help you choose the best option for your pet, read on!
Rat Bait, Not Cat Bait: Rodenticide Poisoning in Pets
Pet poisonings happen secondary to exposure to all sorts of things. It might be helping themselves to some chocolate, applying the wrong type of flea preventive to your cat, or drinking some sweet antifreeze from the driveway. However, one of the most common animal toxicities we see at Leon Valley Veterinary Hospital is rodenticide poisoning in pets. Learn what you need to know about keeping your animals safe from this tricky toxin.
Fun in the Sun: 5 Essential Summer Pet Safety Tips
The heat is already on for most of us in the southern half of the country, and where did spring go? Being prepared for the early blaze of warm weather often means cranking up the central air, adding refrigerant to our vehicle’s air conditioner systems, and stocking up on sunscreen. When it comes to pets and their owners, summer pet safety is at the top of our list.
While there’s nothing quite as fun as frolicking outside with Fido or lounging poolside with Fluffy, recognizing common mistakes that pet owners make is key to keeping our furry friends safe this summer. At Leon Valley, we’re happy to offer the following summer pet safety tips.
All About Mange in Pets
You may know the term “mangy mutt”, but do you really know what mange is? There are many reasons for itchy skin, hair loss, and other dermatological problems in our animal friends. Learn all about mange in pets and how to know when this diagnosis is the culprit.
What Is Mange in Pets
Mange is a term for a broader skin condition caused by mites on the skin. There are several different types of mange, and each of these crawly critters can colonize the skin and cause problems.
Better Off With a Pet Harness: When Your Pet Needs More Than a Collar
Does your dog love to go for walks but pulls on the leash the entire time? As canine enthusiasm is hard to contain, subsequent hacking or gagging may ensue halfway around the block. Collars secured around the neck certainly hold their own with a sizable list of “pro’s,” but a pet harness is a very worthy alternative.
Creating a Safe Space for Your Grieving Pet
The departure of someone special shakes us to our very core – and the same is true for pets. Like us, animals experience sorrow and grief after the death of a beloved human companion or pet sibling. Since they can’t talk about their emotions or consciously journey through their sadness, it’s difficult to know how to help them feel safe and comfortable. Knowing what a grieving pet is going through can undoubtedly support the process and can even facilitate recovery and healing.
Creating New Traditions: Celebrating a Low-Stress Holiday With Your Pet
For some, skipping the holiday madness is definitely the way to go. Whether that means foregoing gift-giving or taking a pass on hosting the annual feast, there’s certainly good reason to opt for a simpler holiday this year.
For pet owners, this new version of holiday “chill” is especially helpful for keeping a pet stress-free or when you’re looking to increase quality time with your animal companion.
If you want to shake it up this season and make some new memories and traditions, we have you covered. Here are some of our favorite ways to enjoy an easy-going, hard-work-free holiday with your pet.
Hearts of Gold: Adopting a Senior Pet
Many animal lovers are aware of the fact that senior pets are often the last to be adopted, remaining in shelters for weeks, months, or even longer.
That’s why our team wants to take a moment to highlight how wonderful adopting a senior pet can be. They bring so much love and happiness to a home – we know you won’t regret your decision!