Tag Archives: vets Sale Creek TN

Cat Care, Dog Care, General Health

Spring Safety Hazards for Cats and Dogs

Spring is officially upon us! With the warmer breezes and blooming buds of springtime come a few pet hazards to keep in mind—use these tips from a Dayton, TN veterinary professional to ensure your cat or dog’s safety this season and beyond:

Allergies

You aren’t the only one who can suffer from springtime allergies. Cats and dogs, too, can experience reactions to pollen! Other allergens, like dust, dirt, dander, and mold, can also affect pets. If your animal friend seems to be sneezing, sniffling, or coughing more than usual as warmer weather arrives, it’s worth a call to the vet’s office. Medications and a few precautionary measures can help your pet to feel better.

Escape

With warmer weather comes an increased temptation for your pet to dart outdoors and go exploring, especially if you leave doors or windows open to let comfortable breezes inside. Make sure your pet is wearing a microchip, ID tags on the collar, or both in tandem so that they stay properly identified at all times.

Pests

Of course, outdoor pests like fleas, ticks, and worms start to become a problem again as the weather warms. Have your pet wear a quality heartworm preventative and a flea-and-tick control medication; these simple measures will ward off most of the pesky critters that pose a threat to your four-legged friend. If your pet needs pest-control medicines, call your vet’s office.

Pesticide Products

Do you spray pesticides, herbicides, fungicides, or fertilizer on your lawn and garden? These substances can easily harm pets who come in contact with them, and they’re likely to cause serious episodes of poisoning! Keep pets indoors when spraying chemicals, and never let your pet chow down on recently treated grass or plants. Store pesticides and similar products safely where pets can’t reach them.

Plant Life

The products you spray on plants aren’t the only dangers to consider when it comes to outdoor vegetation. Various plants and flowers themselves—both indoor and outdoor varieties—can poison a pet! The list includes philodendron, rhododendron (also called azalea), ivy, oleander, elephant ear, dieffenbachia, tulips, lilies, daffodils, the sago palm, various types of aloe plants, and many more. Don’t let pets munch on any plants or flowers, and see the ASPCA’s website for a full list of toxic and non-toxic plants.

Does your pet need pest-control medications or identification measures? Schedule an appointment with your Dayton, TN veterinarian.

Adoptions, General Care, Pocket Pet Care

Bunny Care for Beginners

Have you recently adopted a bunny? If so, you definitely have chosen an adorable pet! Bunnies have a special way of melting people’s hearts with their cute faces and playful antics. Rabbits do have some very specific care needs, however, so it’s important for you to do some research and find out what Floppy needs to stay happy and healthy. Read on as a Sale Creek, TN vet lists some bunny care tips for beginners.

Proper Diet

Good nutrition is an important cornerstone of any good pet care routine. Grass hay, such as Timothy hay, should make up the bulk of your bunny’s diet. Floppy can have pellets for her breakfast and dinner. You’ll want to supplement these things with safe, suitable produce and, of course, the occasional treat. Ask your vet for nutritional recommendations.

Playtime

Make sure to let Floppy out to play for at least a few hours a day. Spend some of this time playing with your pet and bonding with her!

Bunnyproofing

Do some basic bunnyproofing by removing or securing toxic plants; chemicals; medications; plastic bags, wrappers, and ties; and small or sharp objects. You’ll want to cover furniture legs, wires and cords, and baseboards with protecting casings. Also, seal off openings behind and beneath furniture and cabinets. Ask your vet for specific advice.

Chew Toys

Bunnies need to chew to keep their teeth from overgrowing, so you’ll need to provide Floppy with lots of suitable playthings. Many wood, wicker, and cardboard items can make great chew toys! Ask your vet for more information.

Comfy Cage

Floppy will spend a lot of time in her cage, so make sure it’s nice and comfy. Your bunny should have room to stand up, stretch out, hop around, and play, all without touching the sides or top of her cage. Choose a cage with a solid bottom, as wire floors can be dangerous. You’ll need to add a hidey-hole, dishes, a water bottle, and substrate. Avoid pine and cedar substrates, which are toxic to small animals.

Veterinary Care

Floppy will need regular veterinary care to stay happy and healthy. Ask your vet to recommend an appointment schedule. You’ll also want to do some research on potential signs of illness, so you know what to watch for.

Do you have questions about your bunny’s health or care? Contact us, your Sale Creek, TN vet clinic, today!