Posts in Category: Pet Health & Wellness
We Owe It To Our Pets: The Importance of Monthly Parasite Prevention
Veterinarians routinely hear questions about the necessity of monthly parasite prevention, but this question is more common in the colder months.
Sure, December-February are pretty chilly in Nashville, but that doesn’t always mean that all the bugs die off. Most parasites become dormant in winter, but with rising temperatures they wake up – and begin the search for their first blood meal of the season.
Tempting, but Risky
It’s not unheard of for some pet owners to stop monthly parasite prevention as soon as it starts to get cold outside. This practice might save a few bucks, but it leaves pets completely exposed to the life cycles of different parasites.
The lack of buzzing, whining mosquitoes does not mean that pets cannot be infected with heartworm disease. In fact, they can still survive in temperatures under 50 degrees. Monthly parasite prevention protects your pet from a single bite from an infected mosquito, but also kills off any worms that may be deposited into their bloodstream.
A single missed dose can leave the door wide open for these sometimes deadly parasites.
Continue…Wreaking Havoc: Periodontal Disease in Pets
We all know how important regular pet dental care is for ourselves and our children. We brush twice a day, floss, and see our dentist for cleanings twice a year. But what if we told you the same care is needed for your pets?
It’s true! Imagine what your mouth would feel like if you never brushed your teeth or saw the dentist. This is a fact of life for most pets, but it doesn’t have to be the case.
And there’s good reason to make regular dental care for your pet a priority. Periodontal disease in pets is the most common health condition in pets today. So common, in fact, that by the time pets are 4 years of age, over 85% of them have some form of dental disease.
Harpeth Hills Animal Hospital’s Top Pet Care Blogs of 2018.
Once again we’ve closed out another year, and it’s time to look back and reflect on all the memories, moments, and accomplishments of 2018. Aside from taking a cue from social media and all the many (sometimes ridiculous) “Top 10” lists appearing everywhere, we like to take time to look back and feel grateful for our patients, clients, and friends who made 2018 a most wonderful year for Harpeth Hills Animal Hospital. Thank you!
Each year we also like to look back at our monthly pet care blogs to make sure we are providing you with relevant, timely, and interesting (and sometimes plain fun!) content. By measuring clicks and shares, we also have compiled our own list of Harpeth Hills Animal Hospital’s top pet care blogs of 2018.
We hope you enjoy this peek into what blogs inspired the most this year!
New Year’s Resolutions for Pets
The clock is getting ready to strike midnight on New Year’s Eve and many of us have already been thinking about our new year’s resolutions. This year, you may be resolving to be more mindful, hit the gym more or spend more time with family and friends. But have you thought about any New Year’s resolutions for pets?
If not, we’re ready with a few ideas to help launch you into a new year of pet happiness, health and longevity. Read on and give us a call if you have any questions!
Continue…Quality of Life Assessment for Pets: When to Let Go
One of the tragedies of owning pets is that they never outlive us. Indeed, there are so many exciting, wonderful, and fun times to be had with our pets, and it’s our continuing goal to help you keep them as healthy and happy for a lifetime. But when their life is winding down, how do you know when it’s time to let them go?
This can be one of the most difficult and even agonizing decisions we face as pet owners. However, there are some excellent assessment tools for evaluating your pet’s quality of life that can help you to make a decision that is the kindest to them as well as peaceful for you. When you’re ready to discuss these difficult conversations, let us know. Harpeth Hills Animal Hospital is here for you.
Continue…Pet Grooming: Keep to a Routine for Optimal Health
The business of self-care is a big one. Drive down any main thoroughfare, and you’ll see a menagerie of nail salons, spas, and barber shops. We feel good when we look good – and the same is true for animals. Sure, many pets keep themselves fairly tidy (we’re looking at you, cats), but self-grooming is no match for the full-service variety. You get a fresh-smelling, clean pet at home, but what’s more, they feel their best when regular pet grooming is a priority.
Paws-itive Impact
Think about how often you clean, comb, and brush your own hair. Well, dogs and cats experience the same great feeling with routine brushing. This helps remove loose hairs and debris, stimulates blood flow to the skin, and evenly distributes naturally occurring oils. Say goodbye to hairballs! Continue…
The Parasite Predicament: What You Need to Know About Fleas and Ticks
Dealing with fleas and ticks is one of the downsides of pet ownership, but it is one that must be tackled head on. Fleas and ticks can cause significant problems for your pet and for their human family members. Learning about these pesky parasites – namely, what you can do to prevent them from coming into contact with your pet – is a critically important part of responsible pet ownership.
Flea Fears
Fleas pack a powerful punch for being so tiny (an adult flea is about 1-2 mm in length). A female can lay up to 50 eggs in a day, which is why it only takes a few fleas on your pet to cause a full-blown infestation in your home.
Yes, they’re annoying and cause serious discomfort for your pet, but fleas can also pass on some pretty nasty pathogens, including Bartonella (cat-scratch fever), tapeworm, and even Bubonic plague.
Flea and tick medication is essential to keep these pests away from your pet. Bathing and brushing your pet regularly, and making sure their bedding and other items are laundered frequently, will also help to cut down on the chances of fleas completing their life cycle in your home. Continue…
Why Your Vet Is the Best Choice for Spay and Neuter Services
Whether you’re a new pet owner or considering becoming one, having your pet spayed or neutered is one of the most meaningful decisions you will make regarding their long-term health. Where you choose to have the procedure done is just as important, and understanding the risks and benefits associated with spay and neuter options is the first step toward providing the best care for your furry best friend.
Prevent a Pet Emergency: Know What to Look For
The concept of preparation is drilled into us at an early age. We lay out our clothes the night before picture day; we pack our bags and lunchboxes ahead of time; we study for the big test well in advance. To be sure, we’re better equipped for success when we’re prepared. The same is true with pet ownership.
While no one ever wants their pet to endure a pet emergency, it’s critical that we’re always prepared to deal with one just in case.
A Closer Look at the Importance of Pet Dental Care
Maintenance. The word sort of conjures…work, right? Whether it’s mowing the lawn, mopping the floor, or tuning up the car, maintenance is usually something you have to do, but it’s hardly ever anything you want to do.
At it’s best, pet dental care is maintenance, but it really is the type you should want to do. Without regular brushing and routine cleanings, your pet could be subject to significant pain and disease. Ready? Set. Let’s maintain good dental health!
