Posts Tagged: Pet Wellness

We all know that caring for our pets properly is what keeps them healthy and happy. Having a pet spayed or neutered is no different. While there are many reasons to spay or neuter a pet, we’ll discuss three of the most important reasons in this article.

Black flies (sometimes called buffalo gnats) can ruin a backyard barbecue and make our pets extremely uncomfortable. These little buggers bite, and they like to zero in on a pet’s tender areas, like their ears, noses, tummies, and rumps. Working dogs on farms are the most commonly affected, but black flies can attack any pet at any time. Although black flies don’t transmit diseases like ticks and mosquitoes, their bites can lead to secondary infections—or worse for pets allergic to them.  

Pets are priceless, and as members of the family, they deserve to receive quality veterinary care. We’re fortunate that advancements in veterinary medicine have led to improved outcomes for pets that suffer an injury or develop a serious illness. But modern medicine comes at a cost. 

Pet vaccinations are very important for overall wellness and Leon Valley Veterinary Hospital would like to share with you our top three reasons to keep your pets current on routine wellness care. 

We know that pudgy puppies and tubby tabbies look extra cute and cuddly, but the fact is, those extra LBs are impacting more than your pet’s dress size. A little extra weight can put your pet at an increased risk of serious health conditions. And while she might not seem self-conscious about those extra pounds, you can bet the added heft is affecting her energy levels and mobility. 

If your dog is losing fur in circular patterns and has red, scaly patches on his skin, they may be infected with ringworm. Regular pet grooming will alert you to changes in your animal’s coat and treatment for disease and infection. If you notice that something isn’t right, make an appointment with your veterinarian right away. Your vet can confirm a ringworm infection by diagnostic testing at our clinic. The team at Leon Valley Veterinary Hospital is here to explain what ringworm is, how it affects your pets, and how to help: 

Your pet doesn’t care about Valentine’s Day, but what doesn’t escape their notice comes in a heart-shaped box. Indeed, chocolates are ubiquitous this time of year and pets have a certain proclivity for seeking them out. Once you put away all the goodies, what’s left? You can still celebrate this annual celebration of love by making your very own DIY pet treats. With our recipes for heart-shaped yummies, your pet can safely participate in the holiday. You might even be surprised at how satisfied your pet will be!

Super Bowl parties are typically full of loud noises, lots of people, and lots of tempting food. While fun for humans, they can be a stressful and hazardous environment for your pets. Even for pets who enjoy spending time around lots of people, too much excitement can be nerve-racking and cause anxiety. For pet owners looking to throw a party, the team at Leon Valley Veterinary Hospital has put together these pet safety Super Bowl party tips. 

The pets we share our lives with are pretty predictable (despite significant evidence to the contrary), but then again, so are we. Whether bi-pedal or four-legged, we like certain things to happen at particular moments of the day, or week, or month. Creatures, as it were, of habit. 

The season is upon us where we often enjoy festive and indulgent meals amongst our family and friends. While your pets may not be directly included in your holiday meal plans, oftentimes they are a part of the event. Leon Valley Veterinary Hospital wants to be sure that you know how to safely include your furry family member and what holiday food dangers for pets you should be aware of.