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Following Your Vet’s Treatment Instructions
by By My Happy Pets
on Aug 15 2022
Is your pet sick or recently had an operation? You probably have to give them medicine. Sometimes, getting a pet to take a tablet or paste, or applying cream is more difficult than we expect. Still, it is crucial to follow your vet’s treatment plan for your pet, to ensure success!Here are a few tips to keep in mind:
When you go to the vet, don’t be afraid to ask any questions that come to mind, even if they seem obvious; this will reassure you. You absolutely need to know:
How to administer the medicine: by mouth, with or without food, in water, etc.
When and how often your pet needs their treatment: once a day, morning or evening, every 12 hours, before or after meals, etc.
How long the treatment should last.
If you have any questions after your visit, don’t hesitate to call the clinic! The staff will be pleased to answer your questions.
Follow the dosing instructions to the letter. If this is a problem because of your schedule, talk to your veterinarian before starting treatment. Often, the vet can find a compromise or alternative.
If you find it difficult to remember the doses, consider creating reminders. In this age of smart phones, creating reminders or alarms for every medicine time is very simple.
Even if you notice that your pet’s health is improving, still continue the treatment until the end.
Follow the packaging recommendations about storing the medicine (in the fridge, at room temperature, etc.). Inadequate storage conditions can affect the medicine’s safety and effectiveness.
If your pet develops adverse reactions after taking their medicine, contact your vet right away.Never decide to change the administration regimen or stop treatment on your own.Never give your pet human medicines. In addition, it is not advisable to mask medicine in human foods like peanut butter or hot dogs. These can add additional fat and calories to their diet that may contribute to weight issues and other serious health concerns. Ask your veterinarian what pet friendly solutions they recommend to make pill time easy.
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Introducing the Perfect Addition to Your Pet’s Oral Care Routine
by By My Happy Pets
on Aug 15 2022
Believe it or not, dental care is one of the most important ways to keep your pets healthy throughout their lives. It’s also something easy to let slide from your calendar and your mind, which can lead to bacteria buildup, plaque, bad breath, and even periodontal disease. That’s why we’re proud to introduce Enzadent® Dental Chews and Dentahex™ Oral Care Chews, your new best friends in the fight for your pet’s oral health.To understand how these chews work, it’s important to understand dental health. After your pets have a meal, tiny food particles and bacteria gather to form plaque – just like with humans. And just like humans, routine dental care can dramatically reduce the chance of tartar buildup, periodontal disease and bad breath. Believe it or not, periodontal diseases is the single greatest cause of health problems in pets, so prevention is crucially important to the quality of life of your pet.Dentahex™ is made of 100% natural beefhide and has an abrasive texture that scrapes away plaque and tartar buildup on teeth and at the gum line. It also contains Chlorhexidine, which works as a natural antiseptic to help reduce bacterial growth that may lead to dental health issues.Enzadent® Dental Chews combine enzymes found naturally in your pet’s saliva and uses the natural abrading action of rawhide chews to help your pet remove food particles before they become a problem. The best part is that Enzadent® tastes great – so your pets will love chewing on them.Better yet, because dogs of all sizes need help with oral care, we’ve made our dental chews in four sizes. Whether your dog is petite, medium, large or extra lovable, there’s an dental chew to help them clean and polish their teeth naturally.Just remember: because these are rawhides, supervise your pet while they chew, and keep plenty of water on hand. We recommend they don’t eat a whole rawhide all at once.Want to know more? Talk to your veterinarian today. They’ll be able to help you create the right plan for protecting your pet’s oral health.
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by By My Happy Pets
on Aug 15 2022
Whether you are getting a new puppy from a breeder or rescuing a cat from a local animal shelter, you are about to change this pet's life – and yours. Making a smooth introduction will be helpful for your entire family, including your newest four-legged member. Here are some tips from Vetoquinol veterinarians to introduce a new pet to your homePlan Ahead:
House Setup: Designate an area in your house just for them, such as a crate or cozy nook with a bed, toys and water. Finish setting up your house before bringing your new pup home!
Prep the Family: Talk to your children about how to approach the dog or cat without scaring him or her. If your have a puppy or kitten, be sure to teach your kids how to lift and play with their new pet safely.
Suggestion: read children's book about new pets and their care ahead of your new pet's arrival.
Introducing your new pet to other pets:Decompress: Allow your pet to decompress and get used to your home and their new surroundings, before introducing them to other pets.
Sniff it Out: When making introductions, it's important to take time to let your pet get used to you and your smells. Put a few pieces of dirty laundry in your animal's crate/bed – this allows your pet to get used to the smells in your home. Go slowly until your pet is comfortable with you.
New Pet Makes 2 or 3: When you're ready to introduce your pets, pay attention to their body language. Watch carefully for body postures that indicate a defensive or wary response, including hair standing up, teeth baring, growling, a stiff-legged gait or a prolonged stare. If you see such postures, immediately and calmly interrupt the interaction by separating your pets and interesting them in something else. Once both pets appearrelaxed and comfortable, you can reintroduce them.
Next Steps:
Create Structure: Pets are creatures of routine - especially dogs. Animals often crave rules, repetitive habits and boundaries. Make sure everyone in the family helps create this structure for consistency. Keep to a walk schedule, sleep schedule and feeding schedule.
Proper Training: Proper training is KEY. There are many books and online videos that you can read ahead of your pet's arrival. If you don’t feel ready to do all the training yourself, ask your vet practice about local pet trainers - many offer group, individual or at-home training classes. Even if you are adopting an older dog, some training may still need to be done or refreshed.
Be Patient: Sometimes housebroken pets will have accidents or cry at night. This will go away with positive reinforcement and patience.
Keep Calm: Your home can be a scary place for your new pet! Over time, your dog or cat should be more comfortable around you and your family. Make sure to monitor your pet’s behavior for signs of anxiety. Zylkene®, a non-drug behavioral supplement, can be started a few days before introducing him to new people to help pets cope in new surroundings. Ask for Zylkene by name at your local veterinary clinic or online at Chewy.com or Healthy Pets.
Vet your Vet: If you don’t have other pets, it will mean you will be looking into a veterinarian for the first time. Many local areas have Facebook groups where you can ask neighbors for local recommendations, or speak to family and friends about their veterinarian practices. Some people choose certain vets because they specialize in certain areas and breeds, while others may offer boarding services that will come in handy. Call to set up your pet’s initial examination and/or additional vaccination needs
If your pet's behavior changes in any way, call your veterinarian. They can rule out any underlying medical issues as well as make additional recommendations for training.
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Tips for Helping Your Pet Cope During Fireworks Season
by By My Happy Pets
on Aug 15 2022
Fireworks can make celebrations exciting for us, but they’re not always fun for our pets. In a recent survey*, 44% of pet owners reported that their pets are scared of fireworks. Fortunately, there are things we can do to help keep them calmer and safer. It’s up to you as their owner to help pets cope and make sure they stay calm when the fireworks go off. Here are a few tips to consider if your pet experiences anxiety during fireworks season:
Start planning in advance! A few weeks before, talk to your veterinarian or behaviorist about any changes you can make in the short term to help your pet. Additionally, build a “den” for your pet so they have their own safe place with which they have positive associations. This gives them somewhere to hide when they are uneasy or worried. Make sure the den is in a place where they usually like to hide and that they have enough space to stretch out and stand up/turn around.
Consider starting them on a calming supplement, such as Zylkene, in advance to try and help them cope. There are several options available for pets who become especially anxious during fireworks. Talk to your veterinarian about the best options depending on their reactions to the noise.
Update their identification! Some pets try to run away when fireworks go off near them. Ensure that your pet’s ID tag is up to date and, if possible, get them micro-chipped. This will ensure you are reunited with your pet sooner if they do go missing.
Walk your dog when it’s still light outside. Try to ensure your dog does not need to go outside when fireworks are going off. Prep them in advance for an earlier nighttime routine and, when finished, keep them inside with the windows and doors securely closed. This will reduce the change that they will run off. Don’t take a dog to a fireworks display if they experience anxiety from the noise.
Provide distractions. Consider turning on the TV or radio during the fireworks and providing your pet with a new favorite toy. This will help drown out some of the noise and keep your pet distracted when they would otherwise be focused on what’s happening outside. Treat training is also an option and can be practiced in advance of fireworks season. If they are focused enough, you can take them to their “safe” room, with background music, and perform basic commands while rewarding the completion of the task with treats. If they are too concerned with the noises outside to respond to basic commands for treats, you might be able to distract them short term by simply providing small pieces of their most favorite treats in rapid succession to further distract them from the noise.
Watch for subtle signs of noise phobias early in your pet’s life. A behavioral issue such as sensitivity to noise can be easier to control if caught early. If you are able to pick up on signs that your pet may have a problem with fireworks or other loud noises in the first year or two of your pet’s life, then you should consult with your veterinarian and begin taking steps to minimize the progression of the signs over time. For older pets who develop noise sensitivity with age, or an adopted pet, keep an eye out for signs and try to deal with them sooner rather than later by working with your veterinarian.
Taking a few simple steps to make fireworks season easier on your pet can make a world of difference. If you need additional tips on how to help your pet make it through a trying time, reach out to your local veterinarian.*PDSA, Online Survey 2013
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Teaching Your Dog to Stay Home Alone
by By My Happy Pets
on Aug 15 2022
Dogs naturally like being a part of a pack and being alone can be hard for them. Although you love your dog, life is busy — work, soccer games, gym time and errands- unfortunately this means we sometimes have to leave our dogs home alone.It is necessary to teach them how to stay home alone. This can help your pet by decreasing barking and yapping. The key is to avoid boredom and fear of abandonment. Here are some tips:
Puppy? Start training them early on to stay on their own. Of course, start gradually and do not leave them for an entire day right away. The key is for them to feel safe in the environment where they are being left.
Adopt an adult dog? It is also best to start training gradually to stay on their own, even if your pet was used to it in their previous environment. You should train even more gradually if you’re adopting a dog from a kennel who can be more sensitive. Their sole bond with humans has been temporary or traumatic, so they’re more sensitive than other dogs when it comes to breaking temporary bonds.
Boredom often makes for nervous dogs, which can cause problems. Some signs of boredom are chewing, digging, yapping and barking, but also jumping near the gate where they come in and out. Don’t punish such behavior but instead avoid boredom. For example, hide some dry treats or use toys you can fill with treats to keep your dog busy.
If your dog has free rein of the house or yard, make sure everything is put away and there are no hazards.
Let your dog run around a bit before you leave. Tired dogs are less likely to bark or chew.
Another solution is to feed him before you leave. Dogs with full stomachs naturally tend to nap.
Don’t make a fuss when you leave or come home. Avoid painful goodbyes and ecstatic reunions. Dogs are already thrilled with a simple pat or greeting.
If you think your dog has real abandonment issues, consult a behavior specialist or talk to your veterinarian.You can support your dog’s training with Zylkene®. This behavior supplement relaxes your pet without causing drowsiness. It can help your pet be calmer, easier to train, and adapt smoothly.
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Should I Board My Cat or Hire a Cat Sitter?
by By My Happy Pets
on Aug 15 2022
Now that you’ve planned your next great adventure, don’t forget to make arrangements for your cat! It’s not recommended to leave your cat home alone and unattended for the duration of your trip. This is stressful for your kitty and can be dangerous, especially if your cat has a medical emergency.If it’s a monumental battle to get your cat into a carrier, it’s time to find a cat sitter. Benefits of hiring a cat sitter:
Your cat stays in their own home and avoids the stress of going to the veterinarian’s office or boarding facility
Best for cats that love their routine
Minimum 2x day interaction with the cat sitter
Enrichment – play time with the sitter
Cat sitter can care for more than one cat
Frequent visits to the home ensure that your cat is safe and healthy
Has your cat been well socialized? If so, your cat may benefit from a boarding facility with cat condos.Benefits of boarding your cat:
In some facilities, your cat stays in a kitty condo with new hiding places
Enrichment – If available, consider add-ons for play time with the kennel staff
Some boarding only facilities have a veterinarian on staff for emergencies
Many facilities use camera systems that allow you to check up on your cat remotely
Not sure which option is best for your cat? Look into both boarding and cat sitters.Related Topics:How to Find the Right Cat SitterBest Practices for Boarding Your Cat
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Introducing Your Pet to Your New Baby
by By My Happy Pets
on Aug 15 2022
A new baby is an exciting time and a big change for the entire family, including your pet. They will not only face a number of new smells and sounds but also, get less of your time and attention. It may be difficult for them especially if they’ve been the “only child” for a while. With proper training, supervision, and adjustments, you, your new baby, and your pet should be able to live together safely and happily as one big family.Once the baby arrives the key is for your pet to associate being around the baby as a positive experience. Let him or her sit next to you while holding the baby, take the dog with you when you walk the baby, etc. Always supervise any interaction.Life can no doubt get hectic while caring for your new baby but try to maintain regular routines as much as you can in order for your pet to adjust. Continue to spend time with your pet each day. That way, your fur-baby won’t see the new baby as a "rival" getting all the love and attention.You can help your cat or dog cope with this change by giving them Zylkene®. It can relax your pet without causing drowsiness, making it easier to adjust.
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by By My Happy Pets
on Aug 15 2022
The holidays can be a stressful time, and not just for humans. You’ve got a lot of planning, cooking, cleaning and shopping to do – and your pets pick up on the changes in behavior around the house. But with a little awareness of what can stress out your pet, and what signs of stress to look for, you can help make the holidays a happier time for your whole family.The most common disruptions during the holiday season are sensory. The holidays introduce a lot of new noises – holiday music, doorbells ringing more frequently, pots and pans clanging, phones ringing, new noisy toys, and more voices making more noise. Holiday scents can contribute to this, with anything from seasonal air fresheners to fireplaces to Christmas trees changing the smell of the house.Another common disruption are strangers – your guests – that your dog hasn’t met before. Party guests, long-term house guests, and visiting family can be stressful for your dog depending on their socialization levels. Guests and special occasions can also lead to rule changes that can be confusing for dogs who are used to begging at the table or sitting on the couch. And, of course, with everything going on, dogs are likely to get less attention and exercise – which leaves them energetic and anxious.If you suspect the holidays are stressing out your pets, check out the Stress Ladder and see if the listed behaviors look familiar. The stress ladder is a scale that measures signs of behavioral issues and can help you and your veterinarian determine how much stress your pet is experiencing.The easiest way to help your pet manage stress during the holidays is to set up a pet-friendly space in your home that they can retreat to. Make the space comfortable and quiet, and make sure guests know to leave your pets alone if they’re staying there. If you can’t dedicate a space for your pets, make a point to take them somewhere quiet for a little bit to pet them, soothe them, and talk to them.Nutraceuticals may also help. Zylkene® can help a pet deal with new people, new situations, and new life challenges – just like the kinds the holidays bring. Nutraceuticals like Zylkene® help dogs and cats relax and accept challenging situations without altering behavior or making them drowsy. As always, consult your veterinarian for medical advice if you are concerned about your pet’s behavior.
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How to Find the Right Cat Sitter
by By My Happy Pets
on Aug 15 2022
Cat sitters are a great alternative to boarding your cat. For anxious and independent cats, a cat sitter helps maintain your cat’s routine and provides you with peace of mind.What to Expect
There are two types of cat sitters: those that stay at your house for the duration of your trip, and those that come check on your cat periodically.
Cats shouldn’t be left alone for more than 12 hours at a time. Cat sitters should be expected to come by at least twice a day. If your cat has a specific feeding or medication schedule, the cat sitter may need to check in more frequently.
Sitters are responsible for feeding your cat, changing their water and cleaning out the litter box. If your cat is social, the sitter will also play with your cat.
Picking a Sitter
Ask your sitter about their experience with cat sitting and get references from other cat owners. A good cat sitter will be knowledgeable, trustworthy and observant.
Discuss your expectations with the sitter and find out what services they provide.
Once you pick out the right sitter, put together a list of instructions. Be sure to include feeding times, info about any medications and contact information for your veterinarian. Don’t forget to tell the sitter about your cat’s favorite toys and games!
Make sure you call your veterinarian and let them know your cat sitter is responsible for your cat while you’re out of town. This ensures that your cat will get any necessary treatment if there is a medical emergency when you’re away.
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by By My Happy Pets
on Aug 15 2022
The turkey is in the oven, the halls are decked and the gifts are wrapped, but do you know where the cat is? With all the excitement of the holidays, sometimes we can lose track of our four-legged family members, only to find the cats chewing on the décor or the dog eating through the kitchen garbage after a family feast. Follow the holiday pet safety tips from our Veterinarians below all season long.Dos and Don'ts of Décor:
Make sure to keep decorations and ornaments up and out of reach of curious pets.
Instead of glass ornaments, look for non-breakable options (such as metal or plastic), since pieces of broken glass ornaments can be easily swallowed or stepped on.
Keep an eye out for any loose confetti or tinsel that might be in reach of pets, especially cats. These little eye-catching pieces of plastic can lead to blockage in the digestive track, if swallowed.
Poinsettias aren't deadly to pets, but if eaten they can cause pets to vomit and have digestive upset, so keep them away from animals.
Candles can set the celebratory mood and they can become a fire hazard with an unsupervised pet moving around. A bump of a table or the pulling of a tablecloth can lead to a candle tipping over. Don't leave any lit candles unsupervised and keep them in sturdy holders.
If you put up a Christmas tree, either real or artificial, make sure it's properly secured. Curious cats may like to climb on it and larger dogs can easily knock them over.
Glowing lights or moving décor are sometimes too good to pass up for some pets. Make sure to unplug or turn off any decorations to prevent harm and possible fire hazards when you leave the house or go to bed at night.
Dogs and cats can get be startled by holiday noise makers and poppers. If you have noisemakers at your celebration, set your pet up with their own quite space, away from the party.
Food Faux Pas:
While humans relish in the chocolate goodies of the season, this sweet treat is dangerous to pets. Keep chocolate candy sealed and out of reach, and if you think your pet may have ingested chocolate, call your veterinarian.
A holiday turkey can be a major stomach concern to our four-legged friends. The skin on the turkey is soaked in oils, seasonings, and fats, which may lead to stomach pain and even pancreatitis. Also be sure to keep your kitchen garbage out of reach or covered, since the turkey bones can be a particularly dangerous choking and digestive hazard if pets get their paws on them.
Advise your dinner and party guests to not feed your dog any scraps to avoid digestive upset. If your dog tends to beg near the table at mealtime, put your dog in a quiet room during the feast to avoid temptation.
Hosting Hazards:
Think being around lots of people makes you stressed? Just imagine how your pet feels! Make sure to keep an eye on your pets behavior for any signs of anxiety. Zylkene, a behavioral supplement, can be started a few days before the holidays to help pets cope once the festivities (and all the hustle and bustle that comes with it!) arrive. Ask for Zylkene by name at your local veterinary clinic or online at Chewy.com or Healthy Pets.
During family gatherings or large parties, keep a cozy space secluded so your pet has a place to go and relax during all the excitement at a holiday party.
If you are concerned with your dog or cat getting loose as your front door opens and closes during holiday gatherings, consider keeping your pet in a secure place in your home, with toys and fresh water. Playing calming music in this room may help to soothe them or distract them from the noises in the rest of the house.
Travel Safely:
Loading up the car to head to Grandma's house for the holidays? Buckle up you and your pets. Loose pets in a car can be a danger, both as a driving distraction and as a projectile (if there were to be an accident). Secure pets as you would the rest of your family – there are special harnesses and car crates for pets – to keep everyone safe.
Keep a leash handy in the car, not packed away. In the event your car breaks down in transit, you may need to exit your vehicle quickly with your family and pet. Even in a minor fender bender, pets can escape when a frazzled owner steps out of the car to assess the damage.
If you are flying with your pet, try to limit how long your flight time is, avoiding connecting flights to prevent any delays and risk of the airline misplacing your very important cargo.
Make sure to pack food, plus water and bowls.
Bring along your dog's favorite toys so your dog has something from home to keep him occupied when visiting a new house.
Please note: If your pet's health status or behavior changes suddenly in any way, call your veterinarian. He or she can help rule out any underlying medical issues as well as make additional recommendations, beyond these general holiday pet safety tips.
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Helping Your Pets Cope with Spooky Season
by By My Happy Pets
on Aug 15 2022
The holiday season means guests, decorations, parties – and a whole lot of treats your dog probably shouldn’t get into. That’s especially true during Halloween, when heaps of candy come into your home and stick around for weeks afterward. Here are some common problems pets run into this time of year, and ways you can spot them.The number one danger for dogs during Halloween is chocolate. Dogs have difficulty processing theobromine in chocolate, which means toxic buildups can happen more rapidly. Darker chocolates (cocoa, cooking chocolate, and dark chocolate) contain the highest levels of theobromine, while white chocolate and milk chocolate contain the lowest. If you notice your dog vomiting, trembling and experiencing loose stools and you think they may have eaten chocolate, call your vet and take them in – don’t wait.Garbage gut, or “dietary indiscretion,” is when dogs ingest something their body can’t tolerate – typically either from being fed table scraps or getting into the garbage. During the Fall, you can add “decorations that look like food” to the list. Most cases of dietary indiscretion are minor and resolve themselves in 1-3 days. If you notice your dog experiencing loose stools, vomiting, loss of appetite, or lethargy for longer than a day, consult with your veterinarian.Finally, nervousness is common for dogs during the holidays – kicking off with Halloween’s cavalcade of trick-or-treaters. If your dog appears anxious, confused or scared, keep them away from the front door so they don’t see the procession of costumed kids walking up. Soothing music will also help, and if you have a storm vest or jacket for your dog, let them wear that, too. Beyond barking at trick or treaters, this can be a very common time for pets to escape. Ensure they are microchipped and try not to leave them outside unattended.And if your dog is experiencing loose stools, keep an eye on the Four C’s of pet stool: color, consistency, contents and coating. If you notice your pet’s stool is loose and liquid, discolored, contains worm segments or has a film-like coating, contact your veterinarian.Thankfully, a lot of intestinal distress is fleeting, and typically works itself out within a day. If problems persist, talk with your vet about Pro-Pectalin™. Pro-Pectalin™ can soothe your pet’s upset stomach stemming from a variety of causes, and comes in a gel or tablet form, so even finicky pets can be treated.FURTHER READING:https://www.petmd.com/dog/care/how-should-my-dogs-poop-lookhttps://www.justrightpetfood.com/blog/whats-your-dogs-poop-telling-youhttps://www.purina.com/pro-plan/articles/health/what-should-dog-poop-look
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Helping Your Pet Cope with Fireworks
by By My Happy Pets
on Aug 15 2022
Helping Your Pet Cope with Fireworks
A practical guide on how to help your pet cope during the fireworks season, including: preparations beforehand, tips and helpful advice for the day itself.
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by By My Happy Pets
on Aug 15 2022
Dogs should be wearing a collar with ID tags.
Food, treats and any supplements. Give specific instructions on amounts and when to feed. Some kennels provide food, but this may upset your pet's stomach.
Medication - if your pet is on any medicine, pack enough for the duration of the stay plus a few extra days. Bring written dosage instructions for the kennel.
Favorite play toys and chew toys.
Bed or blanket - this helps your pet feel more at home.
Anything else that might make your dog or cat feel safe, such as an old t-shirt.
Proof of vaccination.
Also, review our 10 Tips When Boarding Your Pet.
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Best Practices for Boarding Your Cat
by By My Happy Pets
on Aug 15 2022
Traveling can be stressful for cats and their owners. Reduce some of that stress by finding a place well in advance for your cat to stay during your trip.Look for a cat specific kennel, or a facility that has cat condos with hiding places. Often times, these condos are on the other side of the facility away from the dogs. Some facilities offer cat suites, furnished with cat trees, soft beds and window sills. Tour a few facilities before making a reservation to find the best fit for your cat.When preparing to board your cat:
Make sure the cat condo is big enough. The water bowl, food bowl and litter box should not be right next to each other.
Ask about enrichment programs. Look at add on activities to engage your cat
Make sure your cat is up to date on any vaccines required by the facility. You may also want to consider flea/tick control products before boarding.
Book early! Boarding facilities can book up quickly, especially around the holidays
Get your cat used to the cat carrier in the weeks leading up to boarding. If your cat views the carrier as a happy place, it’ll be easier for you to transport them.
Talk to other cat owners! You’ll find out what places your friends and family recommend
What to pack for your cat’s stay:
Food with detailed instructions: Do you free feed your cat? Or is your cat fed breakfast, lunch and dinner?
Any medications and supplements your cat takes with dosage instructions
Copies of vaccine records
Treats
Toys
Other comforts from home, such as a favorite blanket or pillow
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Ask Dr. Brian | Tips to Keep Cats Safe Around Holiday Décor
by By My Happy Pets
on Aug 15 2022
Ask Dr. Brian | Tips to Keep Cats Safe Around Holiday Décor
The turkey is in the oven, the halls are decked and the gifts are wrapped, but do you know where the cat is? With all the excitement of the holidays, sometimes we can lose track of our four-legged family members, only to find the cat playing with the tinsel on your beautifully decorated tree. Our veterinary expert at Vetoquinol, Dr. Brian says that the holiday season is prime time for pet hazards; offer these tips to keep your pets and home safe.
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Ask Dr. Brian | Tips to Help Dogs with Holiday Anxiety
by By My Happy Pets
on Aug 15 2022
Ask Dr. Brian | Tips to Help Dogs with Holiday Anxiety
Think being around lots of people makes you stressed? Just imagine how your pet feels! Make sure to keep an eye on your pets’ behavior for any signs of anxiety. Zylkene, a behavioral supplement, can be started a few days before the holidays to help pets cope once the festivities (and all the hustle and bustle that comes with it!) arrive. Ask for Zylkene by name at your local veterinary clinic or online at Chewy.com or Healthy Pets.
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Going the Distance with Flexadin Advanced at the Iditarod
by By My Happy Pets
on Aug 15 2022
The Iditarod® is one of Alaska’s proudest race traditions, stretching back to the gold rushes of the late 19thand early 20thcenturies. Today, dog mushing teams carry on the tradition of racing the Iditarod Trail, starting in Anchorage and racing for 998 miles over 8 to 15 days.Why dogs? Because pound for pound, they are the most powerful draft animals on earth. A typical team of 20 dogs averaging 75 pounds apiece can match and surpass a team of horses that weigh more than twice as much. And dogs doing that much work require a lot of attention and care.That’s why Wade Marrs of Stump Jumpin’ Kennel has turned to Flexadin® Advanced with UC-II® to help his dogs stand up to the rigors of the race. This year Wade competed with a 14-dog team, and we spoke with him to learn more about the race, the dogs, and how Flexadin® Advanced keeps his team fit, healthy and happy. Here’s what he had to say.What set you on the path to mushing?When I was very young my Uncle had a team of sled dogs and I trained with him a lot. My family says I was mushing dogs before I could walk! I finally ran my first two dog race when I was 8 years old. Since childhood I have been following the Iditarod, made it a goal to run the race and a dream to someday win!What’s special about Iditarod to you?The Iditarod is special because of where I grew up. Not just being born in Alaska, but being raised in the Dog Mushing Capital of the state! Knik, Alaska, Home of the Iditarod Founding Father, Joe Redington Sr. I remember going out on the trail by my house to watch the mushers go by. We would track them both at school and at home during the race. When I was younger, I would spend my free time running a small team of dogs pretending to be racing the Iditarod. Growing up with the Redington family, I was able to hear many stories of the old races and learn from those who had great experience in dog mushing. Very quickly I had a growing passion to be part of this race. Beyond my childhood, the Iditarod is special is so many other ways. It’s hard to explain the feeling of happiness, accomplishment, and pride when training a team of dogs capable of doing what these dogs do. Like throwing the football outside with your kid and then watching them get that game winning touchdown…Being alone with my team in the wilderness is one my favorite places to be!How has Flexadin® Advanced helped your dogs?It’s our priority to keep our dogs happy and comfortable while running down the trail and we always look for the most effective ways to do, so that is how we found Flexadin® Advanced. Since we have started using Flexadin® Advanced we have noticed an increased level of comfort and ease of mobility in our race dogs, especially those a little older in age that may have some joint changes.For this race, you performed an experiment with Flexadin® Advanced. What did you do, and what did you learn?We performed two experiments that I think showed pretty impressive results. We supplemented Flexadin® Advanced to a 9-year-old dog named Puma. Puma is one of the best lead dogs I have ever had the privilege of training and racing. As she has gotten older, she has started to develop some joint discomfort. She did not complete the last 2 Iditarods she started as she developed mild soreness. I will admit I was skeptical that she would complete the 1,000 miles this year. I spent the days leading up to Iditarod deciding between taking her and a young up-and-coming athlete. However, her shoulder stiffness never showed up all season, and she was looking strong leading up to the race. I’m happy to share that Puma finished in Nome looking great. Really proud of that dog, she continues to receive her Flexadin® Advanced daily! Another test we did involved two teams from my kennel. We supplemented my main race team with Fleaxadin® Advanced, and a couple dogs on my second team running Iditarod with another musher. The dogs supplemented with Flexadin® Advanced on the second team performed and finished well, along with the dogs on my race team who looked amazing and had no joint stiffness.What’s next for you?For the summer we focus a lot on recovery! The dogs spend their summer days laying in the sun or running around the swamp on our property, a few may even take a dip in the lake! The off season gives us a lot of opportunity spend time with our dogs one on one instead of as a team. We will bring them inside the house to relax with us, go on hikes, take car rides to town, etc. The dogs are our family, our kids, and we value the bond we share with them. When there is no snow, we will run the teams on an ATV around our neighborhood trails but only on rainy cool days when the temperature is below 50 degrees.I will be working construction this summer, and my fiancée Sophia and I will be getting married this August. Our 2019/2020 training season will begin in August as well! Currently we still have just enough snow and ice to mush the younger dogs so we can get them prepared for the next training season. We also have a couple litters of puppies on the way… hopefully some future champions!Thanks for taking the time to talk to us, Wade! We’ll be cheering you on all year long – and can’t wait for next year’s race. And if your cats or dogs could use support for healthy joints and flexibility (whether or not they have a 1,000-mile race in their future), try Flexadin® Advanced today. Just one chew a day will help your pet get more out of life.
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The Step-By-Step Guide to Happy Holiday Boarding
by By My Happy Pets
on Aug 15 2022
If you’re traveling for the holidays, there’s a good chance that “boarding your pet” is on the long to-do list you’re working your way through. And if you’re feeling stressed about it, chances are your pet is, too. But boarding doesn’t have to be stressful! With just a little forethought, you can board your pets and be confident that they’ll enjoy the holidays just as much as you do. Just follow these steps to help your whole family have a happy holiday.First, check out the facility before you board. If you can, ask your veterinarian what boarding facility they recommend – but whether you’re going with that recommendation or another place, it’s a good idea to get a look at the kennels and catteries beforehand. In fact, if you can, do a one-night trial run just to see how your pet is feeling the next day.While you’re there, ask about optional services available for your pet. This may mean more walks for your dog, more playtime for your cats, group play, or even the ability to monitor your pet’s activity while you’re away. More to do means more fun, and that means less stress for you and for them.And if your pets get homesick, be sure to pack small comforts from home. These can be as simple as favorite toys, treats, or blankets. Having something that feels and smells like home will help them relax until it’s time for you to come pick them up.Speaking of comforts from home, it can be helpful to pack their usual food. Boarding places will offer their own food, but if you want to give your pets some continuity (and avoid any gastrointestinal distress), bring the food they’re used to with specific instructions for the staff on how to feed them.Finally, make sure their daily products are in order. That means making sure all orders are filled and you have enough to last the duration of the stay (and a few days after). It can also mean helping your pets thrive during the holidays with a behavioral supplement like Zylkene®. Zylkene® can help your cat or dog handle new situations and new people on an even keel – without altering their behavior or making them drowsy.And if you do try out new supplements like Zylkene®, consult with your veterinarian prior to (and after, if needed) boarding. That will give you time to adjust dosage so you and your pet get the results you need.With these tips, we hope that you and your pets won’t just survive the holiday seaon, but thrive in it. We wish you AND your pets a Happy Holidays!
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Ask Dr. Brian | Dogs and Joint Health: What is UC-ll?
by By My Happy Pets
on Aug 15 2022
Have you noticed mobility issues with your dog? Dr. Brian, DVM, says that a dog's own immune system can play a significant role in aggravating normal joint function. Loose bits of collagen released from cartilage in the joint fluid can be recognized as foreign bodies, which activate the immune system. Despite the immune system's best intentions, this reaction may cause more harm than good. As the immune system responds by attempting to destroy the collagen, it can create swelling, stiffness, and soreness. Continued wear and tear on cartilage can take a toll on normal joint health. UC-II® is undenatured collagen type II, which comes from chicken sternum. And Type II collagen is the most abundant protein in cartilage.
Vetoquinol offers Flexadin® Advanced with UC-II®, a breakthrough formula, backed by clinical studies, supports healthy joints and flexibility in dogs. It contains undenatured type II collagen (UC-II®), a unique approach to joint health that targets the immune system.
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My Veterinarian Diagnosed My Cat with FHV... Now What?
by By My Happy Pets
on Aug 15 2022
Was your new kitten diagnosed with Feline Herpes Virus (FHV-1)? It’s not uncommon, in fact almost all cats are exposed to FHV-1 as kittens, either by their mother or by another cat. Up to 80% of cats develop a hidden (referred to as dormant or latent) infection and become carries of FHV-1 for life. Symptoms, also referred to as flare ups, may occur during times of stress or other illness.It can be scary and intimidating when your cat isn’t feeling well. Here’s a quick guide including some terms you may have heard from your veterinarian when discussing FHV-1.What is Feline Herpes Virus (FHV-1):Feline herpes virus is a common viral infection that can affect cats of all ages and breeds worldwide. FHV-1 is an upper respiratory infection of the nose and throat in cats with no cure. Typically, upper respiratory infections last between 7-21 days. If you do not see improvement in your cat, or suspect they are suffering from an upper respiratory infection, make an appointment with your veterinarian. FHV-1 cannot be passed from your cat to you – it’s not transferrable to humans.Symptoms (Flare-ups) of FHV-1:
Red eyes
Squinting
Eye discharge
Sudden, repetitive acts of sneezing
Runny nose
Loss of sense of smell, leading to a lack of interest in food
Swelling and redness of eyelids
Fever
Lethargy
Treatment Options for FHV-1:
Immune Support: Certain amino acids are used to help support immune function in cats. It is thought amino acids can slow viral replication. This may allow the cat’s immune system to respond more effectively and slow the progression, severity, and flare-up frequency of FHV-1 infections. The best immune support products are the ones your cat will actually accept. Be sure to find a flavor and formulation that is easy to administer.
Stress Management: Long term or short term stressors may cause a FHV-1 flare up to last longer. To alleviate stress at home, set up a place in your house where you cat can rest comfortably and quietly. Typically these restful places are away from other pets, children and loud sounds. There are behavior supplements available to help your cat better cope with the stress of an FHV-1 flare up. Stress management should be addressed as part of your treatment plan.
Antibiotics: FHV-1 is a virus and will not respond to antibiotics (antibiotics will not treat or eradicate FHV-1). Veterinarians may prescribe antibiotics to treat secondary bacterial infections that can arise due to a weakened immune system caused by an FHV-1 flare up.If your cat is showing signs of feline herpes virus infection, please make an appointment with your veterinarian for an examination.