It is generally accepted in most states that young puppies and kittens need to be vaccinated by four months of age against the rabies virus. One year later, these animals can receive a booster good for three years. In the eyes of the law, animals who have been...
Your poor baby must have had some rotten teeth! The good news is now that the rotten teeth are out, she probably feels much better. The infection that was associated with those teeth most likely sent bacteria through her blood stream which would have made her feel...
Last week, we talked briefly about acid-base balance. Today’s topic ties in directly with that – urine pH. Normal urine pH should be between 6.5 and 7.0. A pH measure of 7.0 is neutral – neither acid nor alkaline. One of the things your veterinarian evaluates when...
There are many theories as to why dogs eat dirt. These theories include missing minerals in their diet, treating intestinal parasites, and perhaps having an upset stomach. A new theory would be to consider the pH of the soil where your dog is eating and how that...
“Lepto” is the short name for a bacterial infection called leptospirosis. Leptospira are a group of bacteria that can cause kidney disease. Wildlife, especially raccoons, carry the bacteria without becoming ill from the infection. “Lepto” infection is spread when...
I recently received a SMC email. (That’s a “Save My Canine!” email!) The email indicated that this pet parent had a 9 year old dog with some swelling on the side of his nose. And, of course, like all of us who love our four-legged friends, she was concerned. With good...
