The Crux of the Matter: How Regular Pet Dental Care Reduces Disease

pet dental careWhen we’re in the dentist’s chair, we’re at the mercy of the technician measuring the pockets between our teeth and gums. Sometimes, a single pocket can be large enough to create painful problems for us, and the same is true for our pets. A normal depth in dogs is about 3 mm; in cats, it’s 1mm. When pockets measure between 4-5mm, it’s really important to get on the ball. Without routine pet dental care, your pet could be in for a world of hurt.

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Diabetes in Pets 101

It is Pet Diabetes Awareness Month, and what better time to take a minute to learn about this common affliction in both our dog and cat family members? Join Volunteer Veterinary Hospital as we explain everything you need to know about diabetes in pets.

Diabetes in a Nutshell

Diabetes is one of the most common diseases in the human population in this country, so most of our pet parents have some concept of what this disease is and how it can affect the body. Many people are shocked to find out, though, that our pets can develop this disease, too.

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Understanding Urinary Tract Infections in Pets

urinary tract infectionIf your pet is urinating frequently, straining to urinate, or having accidents, there are many possible culprits. At Volunteer Veterinary Hospital, the most frequent reason we find for these symptoms is a urinary tract infection. Urinary tract infections in pets are a common (and painful) problem that is very important to treat right away.

UTIs Explained

Normally the bladder is a sterile place where bacteria are not found. Urinary tract infections in pets start when rouge bacteria from the environment breach the normal defenses of the body and take up residence within the urinary tract.

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Pet Gastroenterology: A Tough Problem to Stomach

pet gastroenterologyThere are few worse sounds to wake up to than your pet getting ready to toss his or her cookies on your bed. However, pets experience all sorts of tummy trouble, and for many different reasons. If your furry family friend is plagued by gastrointestinal issues, it can be a tough problem to get a handle on.

Lucky for you, your expert veterinarians at Volunteer Veterinary Hospital know just how to help with pet gastroenterology.

Signs of Tummy Trouble

That rumble in your pet’s belly might just be digestion, but it could also be a sign of trouble on the horizon. Pets can experience acute (sudden) gastrointestinal issues or more chronic problems. There are several indications that your four-legged family member may need to be examined.
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Pet Skin Problems and You

pet dermatologyIt is probably the most common reason for pets to come visit us, and it isn’t what you might think. Pet skin problems top the list of reasons that people make appointments for their furry family members here at Volunteer Veterinary Hospital. Read on to learn all you ever wanted to know about this problem in pets.

Pet Skin Problems

Pet skin problems can present in many ways. They can happen any time of year, but we do tend to see seasonal fluctuations in issues. It is often hard to miss if your pet is having trouble, but common symptoms of skin trouble can include:

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A Matter of Trust: What to Look for in a Trusted Veterinarian

veterinarian examining dental hygiene of a purebred dog.Pets are living longer, healthier lives than ever before thanks to advances in veterinary care and pet owner education. This makes choosing a trusted veterinarian one of the most important decisions you’ll make as a pet owner.

When choosing a veterinarian for your family, we recommend using the same criteria you would in selecting a primary care physician, pediatrician, or dentist. Not only are you looking for a doctor and staff who can meet your pet’s medical needs, but also with whom you can develop a relationship based on trust and mutual respect.
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Inevitable Change: Senior Pet Care Basics

VolVet_iStock_000050862996_Large (2)Life is composed of a series of changes, and we either accept and adapt or fight against time. One day, your pet is flying through the air in pursuit of a favored Frisbee; the next, he or she inexplicably refuses to get off the couch for a meal. Embracing this type of change can be very difficult, but through an understanding of basic senior pet care, you can fortify your aging pet’s overall wellness to ensure maximum safety and comfort.

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Pocket Pet Care 101: Household Dangers, Health Risks, and Sanitation | Volunteer Veterinary Hospital

WestPark_iStock_000009062618_LargeHave you ever seen a guinea pig demonstrate his or her popcorn moves, or a ferret show off their instinctual war dance? These animals – among others in the aptly named group known as “pocket pets” – may be small, but their charming personalities are anything but.

While pocket pets are certainly entertaining, each animal deserves to have their individual health needs recognized and met. Responsible pocket pet care should be fun for both you and your pet, and when it comes down to providing a safe, healthy, and comfortable life for whichever pint-sized pet you choose, we’ve got you covered.

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