Meet Milo, Our December Pet Of The Month

World, meet Milo, our December Pet Of The Month!

Milo is a three year old Maltese mix who came into his family's life at exactly the right time. When he isn't clowning for the camera, you might find Milo hanging by pool, waiting for the chance to photo bomb his feline housemate. Needless to say, his life is not exactly stressful.

Congratulations Milo, and share with all your friends - you're our Pet Of The Month!

Meet Oscar, Our November Pet Of The Month!

World, meet Oscar, our November Pet Of The Month!

This fabulous feline is three years old, and loves to clown around for the camera. He even hams it up during his vet visits. When he's not providing gems for his very own Instagram account, you'll find Oscar snuggling with his mom, or taking a much-needed catnap. Because being a social media star can be exhausting!

Congratulations, Oscar and share with all your friends - you're our Pet Of The Month!

Meet Emma, Our September Pet Of The Month

This September, our Pet of the Month is Emma!  Emma is a 16-month-old Persian princess who loves being cuddled and looking fabulous. While this upscale cutie has no interest in looking for trouble, her mom has her covered with Trupanion Pet Insurance just in case trouble finds her. And since September is Pet Health Insurance Month, there's no better time to reflect on the peace of mind that the price of a modest premium can provide.

Congratulations Emma, and share with all your friends - you're our Pet Of The Month!

"Don't hate me 'cuz I'm beautiful!"

Pet Toys That Teach

If your furry friends have been good this year, and you plan to hang their stockings, consider asking Santa for toys that do more than simply entertain. As animal behaviorists learn more about the way our pets’ brains are wired, many of these experts are citing boredom as a reason for some of their unwanted behaviors. Most of us work throughout the day, leaving our pets to their own devices. It should come as no surprise when they amuse themselves by eating our socks, scratching our furniture, or nuisance barking.

When it comes to toys that teach, pet parents have a lot of choices. Food puzzles for both dogs and cats encourage pets to think and interact with a toy that dispenses food. If your pet is not particularly motivated by treats, consider a toy that encourages them to chase or play. A remote control mouse on a timer is irresistible to most cats, as it stimulates their natural instincts to hunt. A set of small squeak toys stuffed inside a larger toy will require a dog with a strong prey drive to “work” in order to get to the prize. And the viral video of the dachshund repeatedly loading tennis balls into an automated, pint-sized pitcher put The iFetch on every dog’s wish list. Whatever you put under the tree this year, remember -  the toys that teach are the gifts that keep on giving.

This food puzzle requires the dog to roll the ball in order to dispense the treats inside. Looks like somebody's got the hang of it. More treats please! Image courtesy of Pixabay.

Hairballs Happen

Hairballs Happen

By Dr. Ian Kupkee

Mankind has been fascinated for thousands of years by the regal and dignified nature of domestic cats. Yet in spite of their mystique, many of our feline friends are plagued by the rather inelegant problem of hairballs. Hairballs happen when cats ingest too much hair during the self-grooming process. Allergies, skin diseases, stress, and external parasites are just a few reasons why cats may shed enough hair to present a problem. If your cat is losing weight, refusing food, or vomiting hair more than once a week, it’s time to see your veterinarian for a checkup.

Most of the time, however, hairballs can be controlled by making a few simple changes at home.  Daily brushing can greatly reduce the amount of hair your cat ingests. Adding omega-3 fatty acids to their diets can mitigate shedding, but supplements must be specifically labelled for use in cats. Products intended for humans often contain artificial sweeteners that are toxic to pets. Additionally, your kitty may respond to a diet that is higher in fiber, or one containing fewer potential allergens. Ask your veterinary healthcare team to recommend a suitable diet for your individual cat. Since hairballs can occasionally lead to life-threatening blockages which require a surgical fix, it’s best to intervene sooner rather than later.  Minor adjustments at the first sign of trouble are often the key to preventing a hairball horror.

Meet Chiquita, our June Pet of the Month!

World, meet Chiquita, our June Pet of the Month! Chiquita is a 12-year-old Miniature Pinscher who loves sunbathing and being spoiled. And who can resist spoiling that face? Despite the adulation, Chiquita's sweet and laid back temperament made her an instant hit with our team. Even when she's waiting for Santa with her four-legged companions, she still keeps her cool.

Congratulations, Chiquita, and share with all your friends - you're our Pet of the Month!