Tag Archives: veterinarian Georgetown IN

Cat Care, Dog Care, General Care

Adopt A Shelter Pet Day

April 30th is Adopt A Shelter Pet Day! We’re delighted to help raise awareness about this important cause. There are far too many lovable animals in shelters, desperately hoping someone will take them home, love them, and care for them. A Georgetown, IN vet discusses shelter pets in this article.

The Numbers

The data on this issue is very sad and sobering. Every year, over 6 million pets enter America’s animal shelters. Those numbers are roughly split between dogs and cats. Unfortunately, many of those animals never leave. About 920,000 pets are euthanized each year.

There is some good news here, though: the number of euthanizations has dropped significantly, and is down from 2.6 million in 2011. There has also been a marked decline in the number of pets entering shelters. That figure was 7.2 million in 2011. And there are happy endings to celebrate. About 4.1 million shelter pets are adopted annually, while another 810,000 are reunited with their owners.

Benefits Of Going To A Shelter

If you’re considering adopting a new pet, please consider going through a shelter. It’s cheaper and more convenient than going through a breeder, and is a great way to pick out your perfect pet. You’ll also be helping other homeless animals, both by freeing up space and resources at the shelter and by supporting them financially through adoption fees.

Bringing Your Shelter Pet Home

As one can imagine, being in a shelter can be pretty traumatic for Fido and Fluffy. Your furry pal will probably need some time to decompress and settle in to their new digs. Don’t be surprised if they sleep a lot at first! That’s perfectly normal. Don’t force attention on your new pet. Focus on winning their trust instead. That requires great TLC, time, love, and patience.

Celebrating

Is your four-legged friend a former shelter pet? Do something special to celebrate! A yummy snack or a new plaything would not be inappropriate. Fido may also enjoy an adventure, such as a trip to the park, while Fluffy may like some catnip or a piece of kitty furniture. (Then again, your feline pal may be purrfectly delighted with an empty box. There’s no accounting for taste!)

Please reach out with questions or concerns about your pet’s health or care. As your local Georgetown, IN animal clinic, we’re here to help!

Cat Care, Dog Care, General Health

Pet First-Aid Awareness

April is Pet First Aid Awareness Month! While no one wants to think of their beloved pet being injured, accidents can and do happen. If something should go wrong, being prepared in advance can make all the difference. Of course, if your pet is ever hurt, you’ll need to get them to the vet or emergency clinic right away. However, you may need to stabilize them before transporting them. That’s where first-aid preparation comes in. A local Georgetown, IN vet offers some advice on this below.

First-Aid Kit

If you don’t have a pet first-aid kit, we recommend getting one ASAP. You can start with a regular first-aid kit, and then add some things to make it more pet-specific. Your shopping list should include things like non-stick gauze, splints, rubbing alcohol, tweezers, round-end scissors, styptic powder, bandages, and towels. The exact items you need will depend on what sort of pet you have. For instance, if you have a dog, include a muzzle. Even the sweetest pup can bite if they’re hurt!

Information

You could have all the gear in the world, but it won’t do any good if you don’t know how to use it. Print out some pet first-aid brochures, and keep them with the kit. It’s also a good idea to download some pet first-aid apps. The American Red Cross has a good one. Keep phone numbers for your vet and the nearest emergency clinic in your phone and in the kit. Ours is 812-952-3643. Another number which may come in handy is the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center Phone Number, which is (888) 426-4435. (Note: charges may apply.)

Pet CPR

Are you interested in learning more? You may want to consider taking a class in pet CPR. It never hurts to grow and change and learn new things. Hopefully, you’ll never have to use this information, but you never know: it could save your pet’s life!

Prevention

When it comes to keeping pets safe, an ounce of prevention can be worth several pounds of cure. Be aware of potential hazards, such as toxic plants, plastic bags, and wires and cords. We also recommend keeping cats indoors, and not letting dogs roam around off-leash. Ask your vet for more information.

Please do not hesitate to reach out if ever we can be of assistance. As your Georgetown, IN veterinary clinic, we’re here to help!

Cat Care, General Health

Easy Ways to Keep Your Cat Healthy

February is National Cat Health Month! Kitties are known for being easy keepers. However, Fluffy is quite small and fragile, and she is susceptible to illness and injury. A Georgetown, IN veterinarian offers some tips on keeping your feline buddy healthy and purring in this article.

Good Food

It’s probably no surprise to find proper nutrition at the top of the list. Making sure that Fluffy is getting high-quality food will go a long way towards keeping her healthy. Ask your vet for specific advice, including tips on portion sizes, feeding schedules, and reading labels.

Veterinary Care

Kitties are quite independent, but they still need regular veterinary care. We advise getting Fluffy microchipped and spayed or neutered, and keeping up to date with her exams, vaccines, and parasite control. Also, if you notice anything that could be a sign of illness, don’t wait to see if it resolves on its own. Call your vet immediately.

Clean Litterbox

Dirty litterboxes look and smell bad. They’re also germ magnets! Ideally, you’ll want to scoop Fluffy’s bathroom out daily, and change the litter every week or so. If you have more than one cat, avoid overcrowding by giving each furball her own box.

Keep Kitty In

Although Fluffy may love to run and play outdoors, she’s much safer inside. As soon as your kitty sets her paws outside, she’s exposed to some pretty serious risks, such as traffic, wild animals, and weather.

Catproofing

Our feline pals are very playful, which is one of the best things about them. However, that mischievous streak can get them into serious trouble! Cats don’t know (or care) what is and isn’t safe for them to play with. Keep anything that could be dangerous out of paws’ reach. This includes items with strings or threads, chemicals, medicine, and small or sharp objects.

Climate Control

Did you know that cats can overheat very quickly in summer? Fluffy can also get very sick if she gets too cold. Make sure she always has a comfy shelter. If you leave her home alone, keep the climate control on.

Love

Fluffy’s mental health is also important! Keep your kitty happy and purring by providing things like scratching posts, comfy beds, toys, treats, boxes, and lap space.

Do you need to make an appointment for your feline friend? Contact us, your Georgetown, IN veterinary clinic, today!

Cat Care, General Care

Grooming Your Cat

One great thing about kitties is that they are very good about keeping up with their beauty rituals. However, that doesn’t mean Fluffy can’t use a little help now and then. Here, a Georgetown, IN vet discusses grooming your cat.

Bathing

While you don’t absolutely have to bathe your cat, you can if you want to. Just make sure to check with your vet first, to make sure he or she doesn’t object. (Your cat may very well object, but that’s beside the point.) Start by putting a rubber mat down in the tub or sink. Then, fill it with a few inches of warm—not hot—water. Be sure to use a shampoo that is specifically made for kitties. Lather Fluffy up gently, taking care not to get soap in her eyes, ears, nose, or mouth. Then, rinse her gently with a sink sprayer or teapot. When you’re done, pat your furball dry with a soft towel. She’ll take it from there!

Brushing

Even if you don’t bathe your cat, she will benefit from regular brushing. This will remove dead fur, dander, and dust from her coat, which will help keep her looking and feeling great. Brushing also reduces the risk of hairballs, since you’ll be grabbing that fur with a brush before Fluffy can swallow it. (Bonus: you’ll also find less cat fur everywhere.) Pick a time when your kitty is relaxed, and start by petting her gently. Then, incorporate the brush.

Fur Cuts

Does your kitty have long hair? If so, Fluffy may benefit from having the hair around her bottom trimmed. This will stop litter and waste from getting stuck in her fur. Just be sure to use blunt-end scissors.

Eyes

You really shouldn’t need to do much to your kitty’s eyes, though you should keep them clear of ‘eye boogers.’ Just wipe them away gently with a damp cloth or cotton ball. If your pet’s eyes are often watery, red, or full of gunk, contact your vet: this can be a sign of medical issues.

Ears

To clean Fluffy’s ears, you’ll want to use a soft cotton ball and a pet ear cleaner. Gently wipe Fluffy’s ears clean. Never insert anything into your cat’s ear canal. If you see discharge, tiny black dots, or discolored wax, call your vet.

Please call us, your Georgetown, IN vet clinic, anytime. We’re here to help!

Behavior, Cat Care, General Health

Why Your Cat is Ignoring Her Litterbox

Has your cat seemingly given up on her litterbox? Noticing more and more accidents outside of Fluffy’s bathroom? There are many reasons why a cat may decide to ignore her box. Here, your Floyds Knob, IN veterinarian helps you get to the bottom of your pet’s bathroom problem.

Cleanliness

Just like you, your cat isn’t fond of doing her business in a dirty bathroom. If you don’t clean your cat’s box enough, she may decide to go elsewhere! Scoop out your cat’s litterbox on a daily basis, and swap out the litter entirely about once a week. This will ensure that your pet’s bathroom stays clean and fresh at all times.

Location

Who wants to use the bathroom in a crowded, noisy place full of other people? Not your cat, that’s for sure. If you put the litterbox in a spot that’s highly trafficked by family members and other pets, your feline friend isn’t likely to take to it. Try placing the box in a quiet, out-of-the-way place like a basement or bathroom. Make sure your cat can access it at all times, even when you’re not at home.

Litter Type

Different cats prefer different types of litter. There is a wide variety, including clumping and non-clumping, scented and non-scented, various granule sizes, and much more. If your cat experiences a litter she doesn’t like, she might decide to simply avoid the litterbox entirely. Try experimenting a bit to find out what your cat prefers.

Negative Conditioning

If your cat was startled while using the litterbox in past years, especially if it happened during kittenhood, she may have a distrust of litterboxes in the present day. This is called a negative conditioning scenario. It might require the help of a professional animal trainer or animal behaviorist to correct. Talk to your veterinarian if you think this might be the cause of your cat’s aversion to her bathroom.

Medical Issues

Various medical issues, from injury and illness to infections like UTIs, could be the root cause of your cat’s anti-bathroom behavior. You’ll want to have your cat examined right away to rule out any medical problems. Set up an appointment with your vet if you can’t seem to get to the bottom of your cat’s issue.

Would you like to learn more about your cat’s behavior and healthcare needs? Call your Floyds Knob, IN veterinary clinic today. We’re here for you!

Cat Care, General Care

Obesity in Cats

Have you noticed your kitty is getting a bit heavier lately? Does the thud Fluffy makes when she jumps off a chair shake the house? If so, you may have a pudgy pet on your hands! While we can’t deny that chubby cats are cute, your feline pal will be much healthier if she stays at or near her ideal weight. A Georgetown, IN vet discusses obesity in cats below.

Diet

Does your kitty wake you up when she wants breakfast? Does Fluffy have you trained to feed her on demand? We know, it can be hard to resist those adorable furry faces. However, kitties are experts at manipulating us, which can make it easy for us to overfeed them. Even giving your cat just a few too many calories a day can make her gain weight. Ask your vet for specific nutritional recommendations, including serving sizes and suitable treats.

Exercise

Keeping your kitty active is very important. Unfortunately, Fluffy doesn’t exactly see it that way. So far, we haven’t been able to successfully convince any of our feline patients to do laps around their kitchens. You may need to trick your furry buddy into moving by calling her to you, or just picking up a toy and tossing it across the room. Offer Fluffy lots of fun toys to smack around, and spend a few minutes a day playing with her. It’s also beneficial to get your kitty some pet furniture that encourages healthy activities like jumping and climbing, such as a cat tower. Every little bit helps!

Dangers of Obesity

Being overweight is very bad for Fluffy’s health. Cats that are obese have higher risks of developing several dangerous health conditions, including diabetes, respiratory trouble, arthritis, heart disease, liver and kidney issues, and even certain cancers. Chubby cats also have elevated risks of reproductive trouble and/or post-surgical complications. They even have shorter life expectancy!

Helping Fluffy Lose Weight

Crash diets are very dangerous for cats, and could make your pet very sick! If you know or suspect that Fluffy is, well, not just fluffy, ask your vet for professional advice on helping her drop those extra pounds. Just like people, kitties must lose weight slowly in order to slim down without endangering their health.

Do you have a furry little butterball on your hands? We can help! Contact us, your Georgetown, IN animal clinic, today!

Dog Care, General Care, General Health

Beach Safety Tips for Your Dog

Thinking of taking your dog on vacation with you and your family this summer? Many of our canine companions love going to the beach! Before beach day begins, though, take note of these safety tips as discussed by your Floyds Knob, IN veterinarian:

Heed Beach Rules

Remember: not all beaches allow animals. Be sure to check on this before leaving home. Even beaches that do allow pets may have certain restrictions based on species, size, etc. It’s also essential that you bring along several plastic baggies to pick up after your dog—not only is it rude to leave his droppings where they lay, it’s unsanitary. In some areas, it may even be illegal!

Protect Against Heat and Sun

One of the biggest dangers of beach day for your dog is the heat and sun. Dogs are susceptible to heatstroke after only a short time in high heat and humidity. Be sure to set up a beach umbrella to provide shade, and take your dog back indoors if you think he’s getting too hot. You may also consider applying a canine-formulated sunscreen to areas of exposed skin; this can prevent painful burns and blisters.

Hydrate

It’s all too easy for your pooch to become dehydrated at the beach, even though there’s an ocean of water in front of him. Bring along a large thermos or two of cool, fresh water just for your dog, and offer him sips from it regularly. Also make sure not to let Fido drink any ocean water, as the salt will dry out the mouth and only make your dog thirstier. Ocean water may also contain bacteria and other contaminants that you don’t want your pet ingesting.

Water Safety Tips

Will your dog be venturing into the water? Be sure to go in with him. Keep in mind that not all dogs are strong swimmers, and even those who are may be taken off guard by the ocean’s currents. It’s best to provide support at all times. Never let your dog go out into the water more than a few feet off shore.

Final Rinse

Leaving sand and salt water in your dog’s coat after you exit the beach isn’t a good idea. These substances will dry out the fur and irritate the skin. Make sure to rinse your dog’s coat with fresh water.

Call your Floyds Knob, IN veterinarian for more beach safety tips.

Adoptions, Dog Care, General Care

Adopting a Shelter Dog

Did you know that April 30 is Adopt A Shelter Pet Day? Are you considering bringing a new dog into your home? If so, adopting from a shelter is a great way to find your new pet! Below, a Georgetown, IN vet discusses adopting a shelter dog.

Reasons To Adopt From A Shelter

There are certainly many great reasons to go to a shelter. First and foremost, you’ll be giving that one special pooch a second chance at happiness. You’re also helping other homeless animals: another dog will soon occupy the space Fido vacates, and your adoption fees will help keep the shelter operating. Adopting from a shelter is also often cheaper than going to a breeder or pet store.

Getting Ready

Before the big day arrives, you’ll need to get some basic supplies. Your shopping list should include a comfy bed, toys, a leash and collar, a brush, treats, and doggy dishes. Put all these things in a quiet back room. If you know what type of food Fido has been eating, get that brand for now, and make changes only after consulting your vet. Veterinary care is also very important. Ask your vet to recommend an appointment schedule for your new pooch.

Helping Fido Settle In

Before bringing Fido home, take him for a walk around the block to burn off his excess energy. Then, bring him into the room you’ve set up. This will give your new furbaby a quiet place to settle in and get comfortable. Get a sturdy leash, in case your canine buddy gets spooked and tries to bolt unexpectedly while you’re walking him. Good fencing is also a must. Last but not least, we recommend playing with your pup every day. Playing is great for dogs’ health and well-being, and can help with many behavioral issues, such as digging.

Let Love Grow

Many people report that the dogs they’ve adopted from shelters are extremely loving and loyal. However, all of our canine friends are unique. Some pups may immediately feel at home, while others will need time to adjust. Getting to know Fido can be really fun! Just provide your pooch with excellent care and lots of TLC, and let love grow. Remember to take pictures of this special time!

Do you have any question about your dog’s health or care? Call us, your Georgetown, IN animal clinic, anytime!

Cat Care, Dog Care, General Health

How to Keep Your Dog or Cat Safe During the Holidays

If your pet is like many, she’s probably excited to be included in the holiday festivities this year. Use these tips from your Georgetown, IN veterinarian to keep your four-legged friends safe throughout the holiday season.

Keep an Eye on Toxic Foods

Many holiday foods aren’t good for pets, including onions, garlic, chives, grapes and raisins, chocolate, candy, gum, caffeine, salt, fatty foods, certain nuts, and more. Keep your pet out of the kitchen during meal preparation and dinnertime so that they can’t gain access to any harmful foods. Also, refrain from offering your pet bones; they can splinter apart when chewed, creating chunks or shards that can hurt your pet when swallowed.

Decorate Carefully

Use caution when decorating your holiday tree. Tinsel and ornaments likely look like fun toys to many pets, but they can cause choking, intestinal obstruction, and other problems if swallowed. If necessary, place decorations on the high portion of your tree where pets can’t reach them, or leave them off entirely.

Wrap Wisely

It’s best not to include your pet in holiday gift-wrapping sessions. Wrapping paper, tape, twine, ribbons, and bows can all be swallowed, leading to choking and intestinal blockage. Don’t leave such items lying around where pets can gain access to them. Also, put away scissors rather than leaving them on the floor, as pets and humans alike can cut themselves by accident.

Beware of Alcohol

Be sure to use caution when including alcohol in your holiday celebrations. Alcohol of all types—liquor, wine, beer, champagne, even certain foods cooked with alcohol—can prove very dangerous for pets. It affects animals the same way it affects humans, except that it takes only small amounts to do serious damage. Never let pets imbibe in alcoholic beverages or eat foods made with alcohol.

Reduce Stress and Anxiety

The hustle and bustle of the holidays can affect many pets negatively, especially if they’re shy to begin with. If guests are coming to your home over the holiday season, set up a “safe zone” in a quiet back room just for your pet. Include a pet bed, some soft blankets, and a toy or two. Lead your pet here if you see them beginning to exhibit signs of distress.

Would you like more advice on keeping your pet safe this holiday season? Give your vet in Georgetown, IN a call today for help from a veterinary professional.

Cat Care, Dog Care, General Health

Microchips for Pets

Today, the best form of pet identification out there is the microchip. If you haven’t heard of these, learn more here as your Floyds Knob, IN veterinary professional fills you in.

What’s a Microchip, Anyway?

A microchip is a very small computer chip that stores a number electronically. The number corresponds to the chip manufacturer’s database, in which your pet’s contact information is held.

The microchip itself is housed inside a small glass capsule which is inserted under your pet’s skin. If a pet is lost or runs away and is subsequently returned to an animal shelter or vet’s office, special scanners there can read the number on the chip. In this fashion, the lost pet can be returned to their rightful owner promptly.

What Are the Benefits of Microchips?

Microchips cannot be removed by a pet, the way ID tags on a collar could be chewed off or get snagged and ripped off. You never have to worry about your pet being identified in the event of an accident! In addition, microchips are easy to update. Rather than having new ID tags made every time you get a new phone number or have a change of address, you can simply contact the microchip manufacture to have them update their database. Your pet’s contact information can be updated electronically, without the need to ever see your pet.

Can I Track My Pet’s Movements?

No. It’s important to realize that microchips are not GPS devices, and a pet’s movements cannot be tracked in real time. While there certainly are devices out there that can do this, GPS technology is not included in personal identification microchips at this time.

What’s the Procedure Like?

A microchip capsule is implanted under the skin using a specialized needle. The capsule has tiny barbs on the outside that help it lodge into a pet’s skin; after administration, scar tissue forms around the capsule and keeps it in place. The administration itself won’t hurt your pet in the least. It’s just like a regular vaccination, and your pet will only feel a momentary pinch. In most cases, the chip is administered between the shoulder blades, just behind the neck.

How Do I Get My Pet a Microchip?

Your Floyds Knob, IN animal hospital performs the microchipping procedure in-house. If you would like to get your animal companion a microchip, set up an appointment at the office today!