Library

Home » Pet Health » Pet Health Library » Library

• Pet Monitoring: Keeping Track of Your Pet’s Tracks and More

  Monitoring your pet is important to his health. This handout discusses the use of trackers and apps to monitor your dog's activity level and overall mental and physical health.

• Pet Safety: Laundry and Dishwasher Pods

  This handout discusses the dangers of laundry and dishwasher detergent pods in dogs and cats. Consumption of detergent in any form is dangerous for cats and dogs. Signs of pod exposure include irritation of skin, eyes, and mouth as well as more serious gastrointestinal and respiratory signs that require prompt veterinary medical attention. Learning to recognize and prevent pod exposure will help keep pets safe.

• Pet Sitter Options

  A pet sitter can give your pet the care they need if you have a busy schedule or are traveling. Pet sitters take care of your pet in your home or theirs, and can do much more. Be sure to interview any potential sitters and use trusted friends, your vet, or online resources when looking for sitters.

• Plaque and Tartar Prevention in Dogs

  Plaque forms on teeth shortly after eating and within 24 hours begins to harden, eventually turning into tartar. Tartar serves as a place for bacteria to grow, leading to gingivitis. As gingivitis worsens, periodontal disease develops, which includes inflammation, pain, and tooth loss. Prevention of plaque and tartar build-up is key. Use VOHC-accepted food and/or water additives, wipe or brush your dog's teeth daily, and have your veterinarian perform regular dental cleanings.

• Play Biting in Puppies

  Mouthing, nipping, and biting are used by all puppies during social play with their littermates. Once they leave their littermates, you can easily teach them a new set of games that are appropriate for social play with people. It is important to provide puppies with outlets for appropriate play from the start. Puppies should never be punished for playing with their teeth, as it can cause them to become permanently fearful of people.

• Post-Operative Instructions in Dogs

  Special care must be taken when your dog comes home after an operation to ensure the incision area stays clean and dry and heals properly. Some signs are cause for concern, and if observed, call your veterinarian right away.

• Pre-Visit Pharmaceuticals for Dogs

  A pre-visit pharmaceutical (PVP) is a medication or combination of medications given before a veterinary visit to reduce fear, anxiety, or stress associated with a veterinary visit. There are many different medications and medication combinations. Your veterinarian can provide the best recommendation for your dog.

• Preanesthetic Bloodwork

  Preanesthetic bloodwork is an important step in the evaluation of pets undergoing anesthesia or surgical procedures. Bloodwork can help diagnose a variety of internal disorders, many of which could negatively affect your pet's anesthetic and surgical safety. By diagnosing and treating any underlying medical disorders before surgery/anesthesia, your veterinarian can make anesthesia as safe as possible for your pet.

• Preparing for Your Dog's First Veterinary Visit

  Next to you, the most important person in a dog's life is your veterinarian. Keeping your dog healthy requires exercise, excellent nutrition, and consistent medical care. Your veterinarian can help you with all three components of your pet’s healthy lifestyle. Since you and your dog will make many trips to the veterinary hospital over the years, start preparing your dog for these visits as a puppy.

• Preparing for Your Telemedicine Appointment

  A telemedicine visit is typically conducted over telephone, text messaging, chat, email, or videoconference. This may allow a veterinarian to diagnose and treat your pet’s medical condition remotely, without the need for an in-person visit. Your appointment will be conducted by a licensed veterinarian.