Most pets, at some point in their lives, will undergo surgery. Statistics indicate that 80% of dogs and up to 90% of cats are spayed or neutered, which means an overwhelming majority of pets will need to recover from surgery and their owners will need to keep an eye out for infection. The risk of a surgical site infection, referred to as SSI in the veterinary field, can vary.
Lumps and bumps can set off alarm bells. As humans, we’re prepared for the fact that a lump found on a dog may indicate a cancerous growth, which is a very real possibility. It’s also possible, though, that the lump is a benign cyst, which in dogs is pretty common. To clear up any confusion over the source of the lump or the prognosis it offers a dog, it’s
Cherry eye, a red bulge in the corner of a pet’s eye, is actually caused by a prolapsed tear gland. It’s a common condition that most often affects dogs but can also be seen in cats from time to time. The bulge may cause itchiness and discomfort, which could prompt a cat or dog to try and scratch or rub the area and could lead to a scratched or
Dogs, just like humans, can get hernias. In fact, they’re fairly common in canines, and industry estimates suggest about 90% are due to genetics. While hernias are common in dogs, they can cause problems and dog owners should take steps to have them checked out by a qualified veterinarian and eventually corrected surgically. At Dr. Kelly’s Surgical Unit, hernia repair surgeries — both inguinal and umbilical — are among
Dental disease is a sneaky thing in pets. It can begin early in life, earlier than owners would think, and it can be quite common. Statistics indicate that most dogs and cats have at least some dental disease by the age of 3. And sometimes, despite an owner’s best efforts to keep up with healthy oral care at home and with their veterinarian, extractions become necessary. It might
Dental care for pets is a responsibility that dog and cat owners probably don’t think about as often as other care-related issues, like finding the healthiest food, keeping them active and tending to any acute injuries or illnesses. But, proper dental care is vital to an animal’s overall health, just as it is for their human companions. And it doesn’t have to cost a fortune. Affordable pet dental care
Dogs require more than a bone and a walk. Most dog owners recognize that, but sometimes in that adorable puppy phase, the costs of dog ownership can get lost in the haze of their cuteness. Industry estimates indicate most dog owners spend between $400 and nearly $4,000 each year on their dogs, from treats and food to toys and medical expenses. And sometimes those medical expenses include surgeries.
Most pet owners are familiar with the responsibility associated with spaying or neutering a cat or dog. Not only does the procedure prevent unwanted pregnancies and control the animal population, but it helps prevent certain health conditions later in life. While rescued animals often join their new families after being spayed or neutered, dogs and cats from breeders or at-home litters will still need the procedure done. And that
For some dogs, breathing is a chore. And it’s not because they’re out of shape, have bad habits or prefer to breathe with their mouths open. It’s because a congenital trait, passed down through generations, makes it challenging to breathe through their nose. The condition, which is part of the brachycephalic airway obstructive syndrome, is known as stenotic nares. And fortunately, a fairly common surgery is able to correct
Dental care for pets has come a long way in recent years. Not only is it recommended, pet owners now have access to pet dental insurance. But, as is the case with humans, proper dental care begins at home for cats and dogs. And, as luck would have it, there are a number of affordable dental cleaning products available on the market, allowing pet owners to get started with
The possibility of surgery is probably the furthest thing from a pet owner’s mind when they meet their newest four-legged friend for the first time. It’s much easier to think about fun adventures, cute toys, and all the snuggles they’ll have with their new pet than the veterinary care that might be needed at some point in the little guy/gal’s life. However, surgery is required more often than a pet
Taking care of a pet goes beyond giving your favorite four-legged buddy walks, healthy food, and quality snuggles. It extends to dental care, a practice most pet owners typically put on the back burner. However, the tide seems to be turning. In recent years, statistics indicate more pet owners are paying attention to the oral health of their pets. Between 2006 and 2016, the percentage of dog owners who purchased
