You are diligent about outfitting your dog with a collar and ID tags, and your cat remains indoors at all times – nothing to worry about then, right? Unfortunately, accidents can happen to even the most conscientious pet owners. Collars can break or fall off and doors can be left open. The only permanent form of identification in the event that your pet goes missing is a microchip. Together with the American… Read More
Did you know that an estimated 4.5 million Americans are bitten by dogs each year. Over 800,000 bites result in needing medical attention and half of these cases happen to children. Although we view dogs as members of our family and want to love on them as much as possible, it is important to remember that dogs speak a different language than us, and need to be treated differently. What we (or… Read More
I’m sure many of you with cats at home know this situation all too well. The time comes for Fluffy’s yearly or semi-annual wellness check-up. You call the vet, schedule the appointment, and dig the carrier out of the attic. However, on the day of the exam, your generally playful, social, and curious kitty clams up or runs for cover at the sight of their carrier. Heck, even the mention of that… Read More
These days it seems there are a plethora of advertisements and television commercials for online pet pharmacies where cute cartoon animals happily retrieve their monthly tick or heartworm preventatives right from the mailman at the front door. It’s true, online pet pharmacies are a convenient way to purchase Fido’s or Fluffy’s preventatives, chronic medications, or even prescription foods without making an extra trip to the veterinarian. And with enticing claims such as… Read More
Springtime is the perfect time to get out in the fresh air and explore Loudoun County with our family and furry friends. But before you head out, take a look at your canine companion’s leash. Are you using a retractable leash? Retractable leashes are made out of a thin nylon cord attached to a spring-loaded plastic handle. They have the ability to extend 15–25 feet as your pet walks away from you;… Read More
What is pet insurance? Pet insurance is a way to plan for the unexpected. Dealing with pet accidents or illnesses are traumatic enough. Coupled with the thought of how you’re going to pay for unexpected pet care can make these situations extremely stressful. In many cases, pet owners have to make medical decisions based on what they can afford. Pet insurance offers peace of mind and helps alleviate financial anxieties in times… Read More
What vaccines does my pet need? Are vaccines and annual boosters really necessary? What does each vaccine prevent against? Are there adverse side effects to over-vaccination? These are just a few of the questions we get on a regular basis regarding vaccines. Keeping track of the various pet vaccines and their associated inoculation schedules can be confusing and a bit overwhelming. Coupled with the often heated and sometimes emotional national discussions regarding… Read More
Consider these common myths that we sometimes hear: “I don’t live in a wooded area, so my pet can’t get ticks.” I haven’t seen any ticks on my pets, so they aren’t at risk.” “I’ve only found a few ticks on my pet, so I’m sure he’s fine.” “I don’t need to worry about applying flea and tick prevention during the colder season.” Lyme disease? What’s the big deal? Did you know… Read More