Pet obesity is an epidemic in North America. More than 60% of cats and 58% of dogs are classified as overweight or obese—roughly 56 million cats and 50 million dogs. Unfortunately, pet obesity is more than an aesthetic concern, because excessive body weight can cause or contribute to serious health issues (e.g., arthritis, cancer, kidney… Continue reading How Do I Know if My Pet is Overweight?
Author: UrgentVet
My Pet Ate a Dead Animal—What Should I Do?
It’s common for pets to eat things they shouldn’t. These can include human food, plants and material items, and even dead animals. (Yes, very gross – but common.) At UrgentVet, we regularly hear from concerned pet owners whose dog or cat has decided to dine on something—or someone—that is past expiration. So, here’s a simple… Continue reading My Pet Ate a Dead Animal—What Should I Do?
5 Tips for a First Time Pet Owner
Becoming a “pet parent” for the first time is exciting! A new family member is about to enter your home. This is also a time for careful consideration and planning. Your new pet has needs – love, safety, comfort, routines, food, water, a designated place to go potty and many more. The first days at… Continue reading 5 Tips for a First Time Pet Owner
Not So Sweet Treats—Chocolate and Xylitol Toxicity in Pets
Valentine’s Day is meant for sharing expressions of love and devotion, and while a box of gourmet chocolate hearts or lip-shaped candies say “I love you” to a significant other, friend, or family member, they can be the very dangerous for cats and dogs—especially if they include xylitol. Chocolate ingestion ranks as number one on… Continue reading Not So Sweet Treats—Chocolate and Xylitol Toxicity in Pets
Veterinary Care: UrgentVet vs. Emergency Vet – What’s the Difference?
My Pet Is Sick! Where Do I Go for After Hours Veterinary Care? When your pet falls ill or becomes injured, you likely first reach out to your primary care veterinarian for advice, or to schedule an appointment. However, general veterinary practices typically don’t offer late hours or open hours on holidays, so where do… Continue reading Veterinary Care: UrgentVet vs. Emergency Vet – What’s the Difference?
7 Steps to a Longer Life for Your Pet
As a pet parent, we want our best friends to enjoy a long and happy life. Are there ways to extend a pet’s life? The answer is yes – most likely. We can potentially add years to our pets’ lives by taking a preventive and proactive approach to their wellbeing. Here are 7 ways to… Continue reading 7 Steps to a Longer Life for Your Pet
Give a Little Bit—Holiday Gifts for your Dog or Cat
At least half of all U.S. pet owners will purchase their pet a gift this holiday season—did your pet make the list? Before you wrap another fleece bone or catnip-infused toy for the third year in a row, check out UrgentVet’s pet holiday gift list for some fresh and practical ideas your pet will truly… Continue reading Give a Little Bit—Holiday Gifts for your Dog or Cat
Talking Turkey—Thanksgiving Safety for Pets
As the leaves turn and the air chills, you may find your thoughts wandering to Thanksgiving dinner. You daydream about appetizers, sides, and desserts, and wonder what—if anything—you can share with your pet. After all, what better way to express your thankfulness for their unconditional love and companionship than through your mutual love of food?… Continue reading Talking Turkey—Thanksgiving Safety for Pets
My Pet Ate Halloween Candy—Should I Take Them to the Vet?
Halloween is a night filled with mischief and mayhem, and it’s all in good fun until you find your sneaky pet with chocolate on their breath, gummy candy stuck in their fur, and cellophane wrappers scattered like confetti. What now, you think? You immediately remove the remaining treats from your pet’s reach, but the damage… Continue reading My Pet Ate Halloween Candy—Should I Take Them to the Vet?
FAQs About Pets and COVID-19
COVID-19 has wreaked havoc worldwide since early 2020. This viral respiratory disease can cause people to experience issues from mild symptoms to severe illness. As you grapple with the concerns and inconveniences of the virus, you may also worry about your pet. COVID-19 is a concerning issue, but luckily pets are not typically significantly affected.… Continue reading FAQs About Pets and COVID-19