Tips for adopting an adult pet
Recently, I have been fortunate enough to rescue a llaso apso/cocker spaniel that is about 3 1/2 years old. Because she is not a puppy, they were immediately going to put her down I was told, which broke my heart. So, obviously, I whisked her away from her horrible living situation and she has been living with me for a week now. She is just happy as a clam! But, just like getting a puppy or kitten, adult pets do require a different kind of upkeep.
First things first, check the teeth! Ruby has pretty bad dental calculus, she will definately require a dental from my vet. If I choose not to take care of this serious issue, the tarter would continue to build up and the pet would be swallowing bacteria on a regular basis, which weakens the immune system. So! Get the dental. While they are under, see if they need their nails clipped-its much easier to do that while they are under anesthesia.
Also, is the pet overweight? The older they get, the easier it is for them to pack on weight- especially if they are with an owner who can’t walk them because of an ailment, etc. This was Ruby’s situation, she was a therapeutic pet for a very sick owner who recently passed. Because of this, she is about 3 pounds overweight tops, maybe a little less. I know she hasn’t been taken on a walk in a couple of years, but she is so excited every day when I take her! She is such a gift.
Now, what about flea control? I have no way of knowing if Ruby was ever given any, and its better to be safe than sorry. I also wanted to change her food, because the previous owner fed a food that wasn’t very healthy. To change the food, make sure to do this over a period of a few days, slowly introducing the new food with the old food to avoid stomach upset in your pet. Also, if you have a vet history (which I really recommend trying to get your hands on) you need to check to make sure the pet has been spayed or neutered, because if they aren’t, thats your job!! And you thought getting a puppy was work!!
I hope these tips have helped you…I know they are helping Ruby! She is such a wonderful addition to our home. Since foreclosure pets is such a serious issue, people will be rescuing older pets, just like me. This should be enough to get you started- make sure to see your vet as soon as possible!
Is your dog scooting around?
If you have noticed your furry friend is scooting around, don’t immediately assume your pet has worms. Often, the problem is that their anal glands are full, and need to be expressed; scooting is your pet trying to empty those uncomfortable sacs. If you aren’t aware of how to express your pet’s anal glands, you should take them to your vet-any vet tech should be able to take care of it.
To express your pets anal glands, you need gloves, lube, and its nice to get a pet spray cleaner for their bottom when your done. You will also need someone to help you hold the pet to avoid getting bit. You will need to use your right thumb in the anus at the 5 o’clock position, and pull the contents of the gland towards you. Then use your pointer finger at the 8 o’clock position and pull it towards you like you did the other gland. If you learn how to do this, you can avoid discomfort for your pet and save yourself some money. Also, it is important to get your pet checked for worms to be on the safe side.
Free office visit for your pet!
Alright!! Now thats good news! Just for checking this post, you get a savings of $44.95, at Banfield the Pet Hospital (new clients only please). They offer great deals on flea control, have great pet plans, and a great staff! Print this out and take to Banfield the Pet Hospital located in Petsmart on Mchenry Ave for your free office visit!
A common problem!!
I know that many owners have struggled with this problem, its called coprophagia…Thats right, dogs eating their poop. Some say it can be related to gastrointestinal problems, others blame boredom or perhaps the pet just likes it. How do we battle this problem?
Coprophagia can be dealt with a few ways. At the most basic of levels, I recommend that you walk your pet on a leash, so that they can’t dawdle around their feces. Right after, be sure to pick it up and dispose of it so it isn’t around later when you let your pet out again. Developing this as a habit will be healthy for both you, and your pet as they get used to the new schedule that doesn’t include eating feces.
Usually, when dogs eat their own feces, it may mean that they are missing vital nutrients. Luckily, this habit usually occurs within the pets first year, perhaps for experimentation. There are things offered at pet stores as well as in vet offices; contact me and we can go over more options!!I have no problem going to a pet store with you. I always recommend visiting your local veterinarian to ask what tips they may have as well, and to ensure that this behavior isn’t indicative of an underlying illness. I hope these tips help!
training tip of the day!
Are you considering getting a dog, or a puppy? First of all, I always recommend visiting the pound, there are wonderful animals there who need to be rescued into a loving family. Once you have your furry new addition, and you have chosen a healthy dry dog food (see my obesity page for more information regarding food tips), its time to consider training! Potty training can come easily to some pets, and can prove very difficult for others. I recommend starting to train as soon as possible, for both potty training and behavioral training. Positive reinforcement while training is what I recommend; training is not code for torturing your pet!! Also, training your pet to have healthy habits, such as tooth brushing, is great to start as early as possible. By doing this, your pet will be used to having their teeth brushed, and their mouth is free of plaque and gingivitis- and later in life you can avoid paying for a dental for your pet. Also, please PLEASE get your doggie toothpaste/toothbrush from a Veterinarian, or trained professional–people toothpaste is a big nono!!As a vet technician, i saw many cases of older pets with really bad plaque, and their health was weakened because they were constantly swallowing unhealthy bacteria from their own mouths. Had their owners started training with tooth brushing at an early age, or using healthy chews recommended by Veterinarians. I know it sounds odd, brushing your pets teeth, but try it! It can be a fun thing to do with your pet, and will establish a routine that will come in handy to you later in life.
