Tag Archives: veterinary clinic Floyds Knob IN

Dog Care, General Care

Yard Pupgrades for Summer

Dogs are very playful and active. While every pooch has their own unique exercise needs and preferences, most, if not all, of them will enjoy and benefit from having an outdoor space of their own to run and play in. If you have a back yard, you may want to consider adding a few features to make it more fun for your canine pal. A Georgetown, IN vet lists a few ‘pawsome’ options in this article.

Kiddie Pool

Fido often enjoys splashing around on hot days, just as much as people do. Get your four-legged buddy a kiddie pool to play around in. This can make for some really cute pictures … not to mention a really happy dog.

Pet Fountain

Keeping Fido hydrated is extremely important in summer. It can also be super cute! Put in a pet fountain for him. There are different types. Some shoot water into the air when your furry pal steps on a pad. Others just offer your canine companion moving, filtered water.

Agility Ramps

This is a good option for very active, bouncy dogs. Put in a little doggy agility course for Fido. You can use things like ramps, children’s slides, or buried tractor tires.

Sandbox

Does your furry bff like to dig? Give him a little sandbox to bury goodies in. This is great for pups that like to bury treasure. If Fido knows where the good stuff is, he may leave your flowerbeds alone!

Doghouse

Doghouses are always the gold standard when it comes to yard upgrades. Just be sure to choose the right size. If Fido’s hangout pad is too big, it won’t feel very safe or cozy to him. He’ll also be more likely to defecate in it. Your pup should have room to sit up, turn around, and stretch out a bit, but that’s about it. Material is also important. Plastic is cheapest, but doesn’t offer much by way of insulation. You’ll also want to avoid pressure-treated wood: the chemicals used to process it make it toxic to dogs.

Mechanical Ball Launcher

Is running after tennis balls your canine friend’s favorite thing ever, aside from perhaps scoring some treats or belly rubs? Get Fido his own ball launcher! Just get one that uses balls that are the right size for him.

As your Georgetown, IN veterinary clinic, we’re here to help! Call us anytime!

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!