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By Katharine Schwarz, RVT, KPA CTP, Elite Fear Free Certified Professional Since indoor cats rarely leave the house, they often become stressed or anxious when they are taken to the veterinary hospital once a year. Since cats learn by association, the sudden appearance of the carrier tends to signal that something scary is happening. … Continued
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By Christine D. Calder, DVM, DACVB Storm phobia, or fear of storms, is a common behavior in dogs. Many dogs are terrified of the noise and react by hiding, pacing, panting, trembling, peeing, pooping, excessive salivation, and destroying things. Some dogs even take it to the extreme of hurting themselves by jumping through windows and … Continued
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By Pat Koven LVT, KPA-CTP, Sandra Robins, BS, CVT, VTS (anesthesia & analgesia), CPDT-KSA, KPA-CTP, and Katharine Schwarz, RVT, KPA-CTP Eye contact teaches your pet to focus attention on you and check in with you regularly. By reinforcing this behavior, you are making yourself more exciting than the environment around you. A strong Look on … Continued
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By Melissa Spooner-Raymond, LVT, VTS (Behavior), BS, KPA-CTP, TAGteach Level One What is Leash Reactivity? Reactivity is a dog’s response to something in their environment which is triggered by anxiety, fear, or frustration. Though it is not limited to these behaviors, the dog may express their concerns by barking, growling, lunging, jumping up, and pulling. … Continued
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By Sherrie Yuschak, RVT, VTS (Behavior), KPA-CTP Dental disease is painful and most pets over the age of three suffer from gum disease. Recommended by veterinarians, daily toothbrushing is one of the best ways to slow the progression of dental disease, lengthen the time between professional cleanings, and has many other benefits to your pet’s overall … Continued
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By Christine Calder, DVM, DACVB Many colleagues and pet owners ask about the use of supplements in the treatment of behavioral issues. There is limited documented evidence on the use of these supplements, but to address this demand for information, here is what we know is being used and impressions from what experience and data … Continued
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Written by: Christine Calder, DVM, DACVB Last week, I had an inquiry from a recent shelter cat adopter. This new adopter wanted to know how she can keep her new cat, Chowder, off counter tops and the table. It seems whenever they prepare food or eat, Chowder is right there waiting for his fair share. … Continued
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By Desireé R. Broach, DVM, MS, DACVB Whether you are planning a move or traveling for leisure, taking your pet along with you can be stressful for both of you. General Travel Tips: Visit the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) website, and research the requirements and regulations for the location(s) you will be traveling to … Continued
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By Christine D. Calder, DVM, DACVB Many see their dogs as part of the family, their “fur babies.” Our dogs eat from our plates, sleep in our beds, and even lick the baby’s face — which is why we get concerned when these same dogs go out and eat their own or another animal’s feces … Continued
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Dr. Sally J. Foote, DVM, LSHC-Silver This type of restraint is called the “cowl technique.” A pillowcase, flannel baby blanket, or thin hand towel is rolled into a tube and wrapped quickly around the neck like a doughnut to hold the head. The point of restraint is like scruffing but does not create the association … Continued