General pet care

David Deresz, DVM [printer-friendly version] Itchy dogs and cats are some of our most common patient complaints. This is noticed as scratching, licking, or biting. While there are many potential causes of this problem, only a few are responsible for the vast majority of cases. These common triggers can be broken down into 4 main…

By Dr. Kathryn Sarpong, DVM Selecting a new pet is an important decision since bringing an animal into your home means providing shelter, food, care, and love. Most cats and dogs have a lifespan of 12-20 years and it is a large commitment to adopt one into your home! Many families with small yards, or…

By Dr. Kathryn Sarpong, DVM, DACVP Each season brings special hazards and concerns for family pets.  Even in Texas, winter’s biggest threat is the low temperatures.  Make certain to provide shelter to your pets from the cold and rainy weather.  Some breeds of dogs tolerate the cold weather better than others.  Generally, dogs with thick…

By Dr. Kathryn Sarpong, DVM Chocolate is toxic to cats and dogs. As little as an ounce of chocolate per 10 pounds of body weight can be potentially fatal depending on the type of chocolate. Dark chocolates and baking chocolates are more toxic than milk or white chocolate. Symptoms of chocolate toxicity range from mild…

By Kathryn Sarpong, DVM Discovering your pet is ill early and getting appropriate treatment can lead to a better outcome and longer life.  But how do you know your pet is ill versus just having an off day?  Pets are individuals and what seems serious in one animal may be normal for another.  No one…

Commitment – Involve all family members in the care of your new puppy. Consider assignments for feeding, bathing, walking, etc. Caring for a puppy is huge responsibility and everyone should be involved. Puppies require a lot of attention and love. Equipment – Make sure that your puppy has all the necessary equipment to be safe…

By Dr. Kathryn Sarpong, DVM Where do heartworms come from? Heartworms are spread by mosquitoes. When a mosquito feeds on an animal, larval forms of heartworms are injected into the animal. Can my pet catch heartworms from another heartworm positive animal? Not directly. The life cycle of the heartworm parasite requires that it pass through…

by Dr. Kathryn Sarpong, DVM Dog bites are a concern for dog owners, parents of young children, and anyone that comes into contact with dogs.  According to the Center for Disease Control, more than 4 million people are bitten by dogs each year and more than 30,000 people may require surgery for bite wounds. Most…