Tips for First-Time Puppy Owners

As spring approaches, many families will be welcoming new pets into their homes, and Grandview Pet Hospital wants to help you prepare for this exciting responsibility. The ideal age to bring a puppy home is between 8 to 10 weeks, as they are safely weaned from their mother and ready to bond with their new family. Remember, vaccinations should begin at 8 weeks of age to protect your puppy from distemper, parvovirus, and other illnesses.

Avian Influenza A (H5N1) in cats

An outbreak of Avian Influenza began in March 2024, and it has come to our attention that this virus can also affect cats. To keep your feline companions safe, avoid feeding them raw dairy products and prevent them from having contact with wild birds, whether they are alive or deceased.

If your cat does become infected, symptoms may include neurological issues such as seizures, tremors, and blindness, as well as severe lethargy, excessive nasal discharge, and sneezing or coughing. If you suspect that your cat is exhibiting any of these signs, please call us immediately.

Stay Up To Date With Preventative Care

Parasites don’t go away because the temperatures drop. In fact, ticks can survive all year round meaning that consistent preventative care is essential if you are to keep your pet safe from their bites and the diseases that they carry. Fallen leaves present a perfect playground for pets and an ideal location for ticks to hide, so keep them up to date with their preventatives and check them thoroughly for ticks whenever they come inside.

Ear infections in Dogs

Does your dog have itchy or unpleasant-smelling ears? Regularly examining your dog's ears is crucial for identifying potential problems. If you observe your furry friend shaking their head or persistently scratching at their ears, it could be a sign of an ear infection. With warmer weather on the horizon, these infections tend to become more frequent, making it even more important to maintain your dog's ear hygiene. A little extra care can help ensure your canine companion stays comfortable and healthy!

Protect Their Paws

Puppies and kittens are exceptionally curious and will play with anything they can get their paws on. Nicotine poisoning can occur if an animal consumes even a small amount of nicotine. With the rise in popularity of electronic cigarettes, it’s important to keep an eye on your dog to prevent them from chewing on these products. Additionally, cats may find cigarette butts to be an enticing new toy, so it's crucial to keep your pets away from all nicotine-related items.

Spring Safety Tips

• Lilies, Mushrooms & Other toxic spring plants
  
• Xylitol poisoning- Check your peanut butter!
  
• Pesticides
  
• Spring Cleaning Products
  
• Venomous animals
  
• Easter Baskets: Plastic grass & candy
  
• Thunderstorm fear

Read more

Get Your Pet Microchipped

If you and your pet do become separated, perhaps as a result of them escaping or becoming lost when on a walk in the dark, you are more likely to be reunited with them if they are microchipped. Microchipping is the most effective method of attaching your information to your pet so that you can be contacted if they are found. Unlike collars and tags which can fall off or be removed, microchips are permanent and can’t be tampered with. If your pet isn’t chipped already, ask your vet about the procedure today. If they are chipped, make sure that your details are up to date.

Fun facts about Cat Nip

Did you know that not all cats react to catnip? The ability to respond to catnip is inherited genetically. Kittens younger than 6 to 8 weeks of age cannot experience its effects. Catnip was originally introduced to America by early colonists as a commercial crop, but it is now primarily used for entertaining cats. While catnip can increase aggression in cats that are already aggressive, most cats enjoy its calming effects, often rolling around in it or even attempting to eat it. .

Should indoor-only pets receive flea and tick preventatives?

While indoor-only pets have a lower risk of encountering fleas and ticks compared to pets that spend time outdoors, it is still possible for them to be exposed to these pests. Therefore, it is generally recommended to provide indoor pets with flea and tick preventatives. Indoor cats can become infected  with fleas by potting soil from indoor plants, other pets (like dogs) that go in and out, and your shoes/clothing from walking.

Remember – the best defense against fleas, ticks and the illnesses they bring is prevention. Make sure your pet remains on preventatives year-round.