Dog Behavior and Training: Cleaning Ears
Why does my dog not like having his ears cleaned? Most dogs’ ears are much larger than ours, and their ear canals are much longer. They are certainly a lot more sensitive. Owners usually only need to clean them when there is a problem; however, they may already be painful at this point, so the […]
Successful Nail Trims: Training for Happy Handling
Why does my dog need nail trims? Technically, a dog’s “nails” are claws. Claws contain blood vessels and nerves that grow as the claws grow. When nails are very long, they can interfere with your dog’s ability to properly place his feet when he walks and may even cause structural changes in the foot itself. […]
Successful Toothbrushing: Training for Happy Dental Care
Why does my pet need dental care at home? Oral hygiene is as important for our pets as for us. Fortunately, dental caries (cavities) are relatively rare in dogs and cats. But dogs and cats can develop dental calculi, or tartar on their teeth, and they are also susceptible to periodontal disease. Plaque normally forms […]
House Training for Puppies and Dogs
Learning to eliminate in appropriate locations is a crucial skill for dogs. Dogs can easily be taught to eliminate outdoors, indoors on absorbent pads, or in any other specific area. House training involves conditioning: teaching dogs the habit of toileting in the right spots. All you need is consistency, supervision, and positive reinforcement. When do […]
Puppy Socialization and Fear Prevention
What is socialization? In the context of dog training, socialization means exposing puppies to an assortment of stimuli and experiences they might encounter in their adult lives. Just as vaccinations prevent physical illnesses, safe exposures to unfamiliar people and situations inoculate puppies against the development of fearful behavior. During socialization, puppies become acclimated or habituated […]
Feline Viral Rhinotracheitis (Feline Herpesvirus-1)
What is it?Feline viral rhinotracheitis is a highly contagious upper respiratory disease caused by feline herpesvirus-1. It is one of the most common infectious diseases seen in kittens and cats. How is it spread?Transmission occurs through: Once infected, cats carry the virus for life, with intermittent reactivation during times of stress. Clinical signs may include: […]
Feline Calicivirus
What is it?Feline calicivirus is a contagious viral disease affecting the respiratory system and oral cavity. It is a common cause of upper respiratory infections in cats. How is it spread?The virus spreads through: Calicivirus can persist in the environment and is common in multi-cat households and shelters. Clinical signs may include: Rare virulent strains […]
Feline Panleukopenia Virus (Feline Distemper)
What is it?Feline panleukopenia is a severe, often fatal viral disease caused by a parvovirus closely related to canine parvovirus. It primarily affects kittens. How is it spread?Transmission occurs through: Clinical signs may include: Mortality rates are high, particularly in young kittens. Why vaccination is important:There is no cure. Treatment is intensive and often unsuccessful. […]
Feline Leukemia Virus (FeLV)
What is it?Feline leukemia virus is a retroviral infection that suppresses the immune system and increases the risk of cancer, anemia, and secondary infections. How is it spread?FeLV is transmitted through: Kittens are especially susceptible. Clinical signs may include: Why vaccination is important:FeLV is a leading cause of death in cats. Vaccination is recommended for […]
Canine Influenza Virus (CIV)
What is it?Canine Influenza Virus (CIV) is a highly contagious respiratory disease of dogs caused by influenza A viruses, most commonly the H3N8 and H3N2 strains. While many cases are mild, CIV can lead to serious respiratory illness, particularly in puppies, senior dogs, or those with underlying health conditions. How is it spread?CIV spreads rapidly […]