Category: Allergies
Grain-Free Dog Food: Is it Good or Bad?
Grain-free, holistic, natural…these are all terms that invoke a sense of comfort. Surely, if something is labeled holistic or natural, it must be better for us and our pets, right? Unfortunately, these are labels that have little meaning as they relate to pet diets. Although they are generally accepted by the dog food industry, there are currently no regulations or...Read More
Why Your Dog Should Be Groomed By Professionals
Grooming, whether a hair cut and/or a bath, is essential for the health and comfort of your dog. Hair and skin that is soiled can sometimes become itchy and cause your pet to scratch. Many dogs have skin allergies and regular bathing and grooming can aide in helping to control this. Long haired dogs have hair that often will mat....Read More
Should Dogs Eat Grain Free Diets?
American pet owners are increasingly concerned with their pet’s nutrition which is wonderful news for pets. However, owners in search of the “best” diet for their pet are increasingly met with misinformation and misconceptions about diets and pet nutrition. While there are many well-meaning people giving advice about pet nutrition, most are ill-equipped and under qualified to tackle such a complex...Read More
Why is my dog obsessed with licking his paws?!
Chewing and licking paws is something we commonly see in veterinary medicine. Although occasional paw licking can be a normal behavior for dogs, excessive licking and chewing should never be considered normal and is often a sign of something more serious going on with your pet. There may be many different reasons why your pet is licking and chewing his...Read More
Golden-Doodle Mania
Nearly 10 years ago, I met my first Golden-doodle patient and, having never seen one before, I can remember thinking to myself, “This Golden retriever is having a very interesting hair day!” Fast forward to the present and I typically see a “doodle” patient multiple times a day. Furthermore, my personal family has grown as well to include 3 Golden-doodles...Read More
Reverse Sneezing
Ever wonder what that funny sneezing/honking sound was that your dog just made? It may have even seemed like he couldn’t breathe for a few moments or like he was choking on something. A reverse sneeze, also known as pharyngeal gag reflex, is a common condition seen in dogs. Fortunately, it’s usually a benign process that rarely requires treatment. Reverse...Read More
What is a Hot Spot?
“The spot came up on my dog overnight, and now they won’t leave it alone!” This is usually how the conversation goes with panic-stricken clients that have just noticed the huge, bald sore that is red and oozing. After telling them it looks or sounds like they are describing a hot spot, the next question is typically, “What is a...Read More
Essential Oils and Animals
As I am delving into the world of essential oils for myself, I have found many people asking me about use in and on their dogs and cats. First and foremost let me clarify I am NOT a holistic veterinarian (there are tests and lots of qualifications that go into becoming a true holistic veterinarian). I am just an interested...Read More
Beware of Grass Awns!
What are grass awns? One of the most common minor emergencies we see during the summer in the Mid-south are grass awn foreign bodies. These ‘seeds’ or grass awns can become lodged in pet ears, between toes, and under the skin. The most common presentation is a draining tract between the toes. However, grass awns can also cause much more serious...Read More
Why is my dog itching all the time?
Whether for humans or pets, allergies are typically a frustrating diagnosis for all involved. Dogs with severe allergies struggle to find relief for their itch, as you have probably witnessed. They might rub a part of their body against the wall, lick or chew their feet, sneeze and wheeze constantly, or scratch until they develop sores. It’s hard to see...Read More
