Along with annual veterinary care, the wonderful things you do for your fur friend on a daily basis are also integral to good health and wellbeing. From diet to exercise, these are many daily pet care tips out there – the trick is knowing which ones you can rely on. That’s why West Park Animal Hospital has compiled the following list.

Optimal Daily Pet Care Tips: Beyond a Walk in the Park

1. Hydration hacks – Most of us know how much cats love running water. Just turn on the tap, and you’ll find your curious feline sipping from the drip. That’s why a water fountain type dispenser is a great way to keep your kitty hydrated. For finicky dogs who may not enjoy the temperature or taste of (bleh) tap water, try cool, filtered water instead. If that doesn’t work, add some sodium-free chicken broth or ice cubes.
2. The right sleeping spot – Believe it or not, pets are pretty particular about their resting areas. Cats, for example, may prefer to sleep somewhere that’s out of the way – perhaps in a closet or under the bed. Senior pets who suffer from arthritis need extra comfort and support, such as an orthopedic bed. Small pocket pets and exotic pets need their cage bedding cleaned regularly for health and comfort. Always consider your pet’s specific needs when selecting the right bed, bedding, or sleeping quarters.
3. Wash those bowls – Another daily pet care tip involves cleaning and sanitizing water and food bowls at least once a week. This ensures the removal of bacteria and biofilm (that slimy layer that develops on your pet’s food and water bowls). It also discourages flies and other pests.
4. More exercise, please – It’s easy to skip a day or two of dog walks or cut playtime short when life gets a little chaotic. However, exercise has a big impact on health, weight management, and behavioral problems. Try scheduling at least 20 minutes of exercise each day. Remember, indoor kitties can benefit from chasing that laser light.
5. Avoid trendy diets – Organic is always better? Cats should be on gluten-free diets? Pets can be vegan? There are a number of articles online and in print that promote these dietary trends among animals. However, this may result in sick pets. Unlike organic foods for people, these labels can be misleading for pet foods, which do not meet the same guidelines. Grains can also be swapped out for less nutritious tapioca or other fillers (surprisingly, few pets are actually allergic to grains). To get some insight into the best diet for your pet, ask us for nutritional recommendations that meet his or her unique needs.
6. Indoor pet parasite protection – Many pet guardians mistakenly believe that indoor cats and dogs are safe from illnesses transmitted by other animals and pests. Unfortunately, this is not the case. If you haven’t noticed, mosquitoes have a way of making their way indoors through small cracks and openings in your house. This means fleas, ticks, and other insects can also get inside. Screen doors, open windows, and visiting pets can also put an unvaccinated and unprotected pet at risk.

For more daily pet care tips, please ask the team at West Park Animal Hospital.

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Everyone remembers their first job…Whether it’s delivering newspapers, selling movie tickets, or landscaping, the first job is a meaningful opportunity to develop important life skills.

For kids that love animals, working with – or around – them is the ultimate experience. In addition to being rewarding, eye-opening, and educational, jobs for the pet loving kid can provide a great deal of fun, too!

Handling Responsibility

Depending on the age of the pet loving kid in question, he or she may be able to perform a variety of tasks that support the health and wellbeing of animals. Our veterinarians and staff suggest the following ideas to help foster the responsibilities of your budding worker:

• Dog Walker – Of all the jobs for the pet loving kid, dog walker is probably the easiest and most satisfying. He or she could begin with just one dog from the neighborhood and graduate to several over time. Not only good exercise for the dog, getting outside will positively impact your son or daughter’s summer activity levels. Getting paid for this service with a decent wage is great, but the real rewards are the happy tail wags!
• Groomer – For an entrepreneurial kid, setting up a dog wash or cat brushing station could be a wonderful solution. Likewise, learning professional grooming can provide future opportunities. There’s nothing better than learning about individual breeds, and this up close and personal job provides insight into different fur types, styles, animal behavior, and temperaments.
• Pet Sitter – Many professionals in the world of pet care got started with an initial foray into pet sitting. A young pet sitter can provide meals, exercise, grooming, and affection to a young pet or an aging one while an owner is otherwise engaged, and clean up any messes.
• Cleaner-Upper – Speaking of messes…While not the most glorious of all the jobs for the pet loving kid, it’s still a fabulous offer to pet owners looking for some help in the pooper-scooper department.

Other Jobs for the Pet Loving Kid

Looking for other ways to gain experience working with animals? Consider the value of volunteer work with any of these fine local organizations:

• Cleveland Animal Protective League
• Cuyahoga County Animal Shelter
• Animal Rescue Center
• Friends of Cleveland Kennel

Beyond cleaning cages and exercising shelter animals, there are usually a variety of other tasks ranging from administrative to training or socializing. Also, fostering a shelter pet at your home could very well be one of the best jobs for the pet loving kid.

Time to Get Started!

Whether you support money-making endeavors or straight-up volunteer gigs, there are plenty of jobs for the pet loving kid. We hope you’ll  let us know if we can help you at West Park Animal Hospital. Good luck building the resume of the future pet care professional!

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Nowadays, it’s not only common to see people on vacation with their pets, it’s quite trendy. From posh resorts to outdoor adventures, there are plenty of options if you want to travel with a pet!

However, there are some serious things to consider before em”bark”ing on your next vacation. The most important factors deal with the health and safety of your four-legged pal.  

Before You Travel with a Pet: Health Essentials

One of the biggest questions to ask is whether your pet is ready for a travel experience.

Before you leave, schedule a wellness exam and behavioral assessment. This will help address any fears or stress that may cause problems for your pet (and possibly others). If your pet has separation anxiety, aggression, or any other challenge with socialization, you should consider boarding your pet rather than take any risks.

When crossing state lines or traveling internationally, you will need to obtain a certificate of veterinary inspection. Many airlines require this document as proof that your pet is healthy enough to fly. At West Park Animal Hospital, we can assist you in determining the pet health requirements of your destination for domestic travel within the United States as well as provide certification. 

In light of this year’s canine flu outbreak, we may also recommend additional vaccinations to protect your pet.

The Destination

With all the options out there, it can be tough to determine where to travel with a pet. For example, some businesses might advertise as pet-friendly, but that doesn’t guarantee a positive experience for your companion.

Identify top choices for lodging by reading reviews and looking for essential information (e.g., does it mention areas for exercise and potty breaks?). Your mode of transportation is also a factor. Since flying with a pet is more complicated, we recommend using a pet travel agency to assist you in finding the best options.

Even if you plan on spending your entire vacation with your best fur friend, it’s a good idea to have a few doggy daycare or pet resort options on standby. You may encounter a few unplanned activities that don’t jibe with your pet, so having some good kennel options on file provides a safe alternative.

Pack Like a Pro

Now that your itinerary is set and your pet is healthy enough to travel, what should you pack?

The goal is to bring items that allow you to maintain the same level of care and consistency that you provide at home. This includes:

• Preferred food and treats
• Collapsible water and food bowls
• ID tags, collar, leash
• Crate or carrier
• Favorite toy
• Bedding
• Medications
• Medical records
• Waste bags
• Grooming supplies

We also advise pet parents to microchip their pets. This is the best way to ensure a safe return in the event your pet becomes lost. A new location can be disorienting, so microchipping is an effective safeguard.

For more tips on how to travel with a pet or to schedule a pre-travel exam, please contact the team at West Park Animal Hospital.

Happy (and safe) travels!

The post Travel with a Pet? You Bet! appeared first on West Park Animal Hospital Blog.

Although pet ears are adorable – from floppy basset ears to the fuzzy twitching ears of a new kitten – ear health often remains a mystery until infection occurs. When it comes to pet ear problems such as mite infestations, inflammation, or other uncomfortable conditions, many pets suffer needlessly.

Causes of Pet Ear Problems

There are several issues that could be at the root of chronic ear itchiness or infection. Below are some of the most commonly diagnosed ear problems among cats and dogs. We also provide tips on how to keep your pet’s ears perky and healthy.

1. Allergies – Seasonal allergies plague many of us, and our pets are no exception. Airborne allergens are all around and susceptible cats or dogs will amp up the scratching – which may also include those sensitive ears. Fleas, certain foods, and environmental chemicals can also cause an allergic reaction that affects the ears, eyes, nasal cavities, and skin.

Please contact us to have your pet tested for allergies. Seasonal allergies (especially during the spring) are the most frequently diagnosed cause of chronic ear itchiness and inflammation.

1. Ear mites – These miniscule, spider-like creatures live on the skin and in the ears, laying eggs and reproducing until they are destroyed. Mites can cause extreme itchiness and can lead to ear damage over time. Unfortunately, if one pet is diagnosed with mites, it’s likely that all pets in the household are infected.

Signs of ear mites include chronic scratching, redness, black or brown waxy residue, or a coffee ground type substance in the ear canal.

1. Foreign objects or moisture – These issues are likely to be more of a concern with dogs who spend a lot of time outdoors. Objects can and do find their way into the ear canal. Plant awns, foxtails, twigs, and other outdoor debris are also common culprits that can lead to infection, inflammation, and discomfort.

Moisture in the ear can create problems as well, paving the way for bacterial and fungal infections. That’s why it’s important to clean and dry your pet’s ears following every swim or bath.

Other causes of pet ear problems include disorders such as hyperthyroidism or hypothyroidism.

Treatment Options

The treatment of pet ear problems depends on the underlying condition. For example, allergies can be treated with medications, diet, and lifestyle changes, while ear mites can be treated with prescribed medication.

Considering how varied the causes of ear problems can be, it’s best to have your pet checked out if you notice any of the following symptoms:

• Head shaking
• Persistent scratching on or around the ear
• Discharge
• Foul odor coming from the ear
• Head tilt to the affected side
• Behavioral changes
• Decreased appetite

Now Hear This: Prevention is Possible

Many of the conditions that cause pet ear problems are preventable. Practicing healthy ear hygiene and scheduling regular wellness appointments go a long way to keeping those cute, floppy ears at their best.

Here are some other essential ear care tips to incorporate into your regular pet care routine:

• Clean your pet’s ears often with a pet-appropriate ear cleaning solution.
• Keep fur around the ears trimmed or make monthly grooming appointments.
• Maintain annual wellness exams and recommended lab tests to detect issues that can lead to ear infections or other problems.
• Avoid areas with tall weeds and grasses, which might contain dangerous awns.

Schedule an appointment at West Park Animal Hospital to prevent pet ear problems and avoid painful infections.

The post Listen Up: Common Pet Ear Problems and Prevention appeared first on West Park Animal Hospital Blog.

The sheer number of activities during the summer is astounding. Your calendar is brimming with play dates, outdoor adventures, and BBQ’s. Chances are, your pet rushes into this busy schedule with delight, which is why our staff has compiled the following summer pet safety tips and tricks.

Some Basics

Before the heat and humidity hits our fair city, we recommend scheduling your pet’s wellness visit. This proactive approach ensures your pet’s parasite preventives and vaccinations are up to date. A routine check can also reveal problems, such as arthritis, that could become worse if your pet joins you outdoors this summer.

Other Fundamentals

When we go outside, we slather ourselves with liberal amounts of sunblock and insect repellent. It’s not a stretch to assume the same products are effective for pets. However, it’s critical to know which products are considered safe for use on animals. If you ever have any doubt, please contact us.  

A Priority for Summer Pet Safety

A pet left alone in a parked car on a hot summer day can quickly become an emergency situation. The dangers of heatstroke are very real, and keeping your pet cool at all times is a major tenet of summer pet safety.

A Word on Dangerous Plants

Frolicking may very well be your pet’s favorite summer pastime. While this is wonderful to witness and enjoy, exercising caution is another technique of summer pet safety.

Not only can shrubbery or tall grass harbor ticks, your pet could also brush past poison ivy, poison oak, or poison sumac while on a summer jaunt. This may not present any real danger to your pet, but urushiol oil from these plants could rub off your pet’s coat and onto your furniture or bedding. This leaves you and your family at risk of developing very itchy rashes.

Similarly, foxtails can be extremely dangerous to a curious pet. Mostly found in western states, these sharp, spiky grasses can become stuck in a pet’s nose, mouth, ears, or eyes. Foxtails can also burrow and move further into the body.

Before You Go

Once your pet receives a clean bill of health (and is properly protected against parasites), you may want to get busy with a serious exercise regimen. If your pet isn’t used to intense levels of exertion, we recommend gradually easing into a regular routine.

With these summer pet safety tips in mind, West Park Animal Hospital hopes you and your pet have a happy and healthy summer. As always,please let us know if you have any questions or concerns!

The post Fish are Jumpin’, Cotton is High: It’s Time for Summer Pet Safety appeared first on West Park Animal Hospital Blog.

Chances are good that if you’re reading this blog, you are a pet owner and animal lover who does not need advice on the proper way to show love and tenderness toward your precious pet. Unfortunately, many pets in the U.S. are not so fortunate. Animal abuse and neglect is a sad fact of life, and one that occurs in almost every community in the United States.

While it may seem like there is nothing you can do about animal abuse, this is not always the case. Being on the lookout for signs that animals you come across are being abused, and reporting that abuse, can make a significant impact in the fight against animal cruelty. Learn about the signs of abuse or neglect, and what you can do to stop it in your community.

Physical Signs Of Animal Abuse Or Neglect

The following bodily conditions are good indications that an animal is being treated badly and needs help:

• Too-tight collar that has caused a wound or become embedded in the skin
• Open wounds, multiple wounds, untreated illness or injury
• Untreated skin conditions, loss of hair, fleas, ticks, or other parasites
• Signs of poor grooming, such as extremely matted or dirty fur or overgrown nails
• Weakness, limping, or inability to stand or walk normally
• Emaciation or other signs of malnourishment
• Witnessing an owner striking or otherwise physically abusing an animal

Environmental Signs Of Animal Abuse or Neglect

While not all abused animals show outward signs of abuse or neglect, their living conditions can often give us a clue as to how they are being treated:

• Pets are chained or tied up outdoors for extended periods of time without adequate food or water
• Animals are kept outside in cold or inclement weather without access to proper shelter
• Pets’ living area is excessively dirty or dangerous, this may include a large buildup of feces, garbage, broken glass, or other dangerous and potentially harmful objects
• Animals are kept in cages or kennels, often together with other animals, that are too small to allow for any natural movements, including standing and turning around

How You Can Help An Abused Or Neglected Animal

If you suspect an animal is being abused or neglected, please call the Cleveland Animal Protective League at (216) 377-1630 as well as our local police department.

It’s important to gather as much information as possible before submitting an animal cruelty report. Try to have any or all of the following materials ready:

• Written statement of your observations, including dates and times if possible
• Photographs of the animal or animals in question and of their location and/or surroundings
• Names and contact information of anyone else who may have knowledge of the abuse situation if possible

When gathering your information, be very mindful to not put yourself in harm’s way, especially when attempting to take photographs. Don’t enter private property without permission and exercise extreme caution around unfamiliar animals.

At West Park Animal Hospital we are committed to battling animal abuse in Cleveland and throughout the United States. If you have any questions regarding the signs of animal cruelty, please give us a call.

The post Signs Of Animal Abuse Or Neglect And How You Can Help appeared first on West Park Animal Hospital Blog.

In our opinion, there are few things cuter than a feline making bread. Yes, you read that right. Preparing biscuits, kneading dough, baking the proverbial meow muffins…whatever adorable euphemism you choose, they all describe a universal behavior of cats. Both wild and domesticated felines zero-in on this instinct, begging the question: why do cats knead?

The Happiness Reflex

The kneading instinct is honed as a kitten to stimulate mother’s milk. As a result, this action was connected to all the best possible feelings. A fully weaned cat may continue to associate kneading with complete happiness and security.

So, cats knead because of a strong connection to a milk reward? As kittens, yes. The best researchers and behaviorists can only theorize why cats continue to knead throughout life.

Other Reasons

Your cat’s ancestors would lay down in tall grasses, leaves, or brush. They may have used a kneading action to fashion a cozy bed or to uncover other animals hiding out.

Did you know that your female cat will knead prior to going into heat? Beyond indicating that she is an excellent spooner, kneading signals that she is ready to mate with eligible male cats.

Territory

Your cat has scent glands inside the paw pads. When he or she kneads your belly, blanket, or pillow, the message is loud and clear: all mine!

The Kinks

When cats knead, they get an excellent back, shoulder, and arm workout. Kneading can also cause your cat to stretch out any sore or tired muscles and joints, adding to the good feelings.

And Claws

If your cat chooses to knead you, consider it a compliment! However, it can be offputting if his or her claws are out. Remember, the happier cats get when kneading, the more likely they’ll be to use their claws. Your cat doesn’t understand this might hurt you, so try to place a cushy blanket or pillow between you and your pet’s paws. You can resume petting your cat while he or she kneads, but you won’t have to suffer.

We Love When Cats Knead

There are so many feline behaviors to admire and appreciate, and kneading is certainly one of them. Cats knead when they’re happy, satisfied, and content. As far as we’re concerned, there’s nothing wrong with that!

If you have any questions or want to share your thoughts on kneading, please contact our team.

The post A Universal Behavior: Why do Cats Knead? appeared first on West Park Animal Hospital Blog.

A sound that all cat owners recognize – and simultaneously fear – is the gut-wrenching hack of their pet trying to cough up a hairball. Few topics inspire such unease and revulsion, but knowing how to handle cat hairballs (and what causes them) is important. That’s where your friends at West Park Animal Hospital come in!

The Technical Stuff

Slender and slightly cylindrical in shape, cat hairballs consist of – spoiler alert – your cat’s fur. While they certainly make you wince, hairballs are actually a result of your feline’s good grooming habits.

When your cat cleans him or herself, loose hairs get stuck to the small barbs on the tongue. Eventually, these hairs slide down the throat and enter the stomach. A good amount of fur gets digested and eliminated, but the remains accumulate in the stomach until they find their way out through your cat’s mouth.

Growing Concern

Some breeds, such as Persians or Maine Coons, are more likely to experience hairballs for obvious (or hairy) reasons. Other cats are more likely to have hairballs in the spring, when they begin to shed their winter coats.

If you’re wondering whether your kitten or senior cat is responsible for a little present on the floor, it’s likely your older, more experienced cat. Kittens and younger felines don’t typically have as much fur.

Confusing Cat Hairballs

Unless your cat is regurgitating hairballs all the time, there’s no cause for immediate worry. However, if you notice your cat is trying to get something up and can’t, please contact us. Sometimes, a blockage in the digestive tract can cause similar symptoms and should be addressed immediately. Likewise, respiratory problems such as asthma or allergies can also be confused for hairballs.

What You Can Do

To help prevent and reduce the number of cat hairballs in your life, try some of these tips:

• Brush your cat once a day.
• If your cat has a thicker coat, opt to have him or her professionally groomed a couple times throughout the year.
• Ask us about adjustments to your cat’s diet that may yield great results.

What a Relief!

Of the many unique behaviors that we love about cats, their tendency to create hairballs is probably not one of them. However, it’s important to note that hairballs are typically not a source of pain for your beloved feline. In fact, hacking one up every now and then may actually offer some relief, making him or her a much happier cat. Sure, you have some extra cleaning up to do, but if you ask us, it’s worth it!

Please let us know if your cat’s hairballs are getting you down. Our team is always happy to help!

The post Handling Cat Hairballs Fair and Square appeared first on West Park Animal Hospital Blog.

It seems there are two types of pet owners: those who relish friendly pet kisses and those who cringe at the thought. Some animal lovers go so far as to kiss their pets on the mouth!

Whether you’re one of the affectionate types or not, there’s a lot of confusion about the safety and health risks associated with kissing a pet. So, is it disgusting or adorable?

Pet Kisses: Gross, Sweet, or Just Unsanitary?

First, let’s dismiss one of the biggest myths around – that a dog’s mouth is cleaner than a human’s. All animal and human mouths contain a variety of bacteria, some of which can make us ill.

When it comes to canines, pasteurella is a common bacterium found in the oral cavity and on the face. Pasteurella from the saliva of a four-legged pal can enter a cut, scrape, or wound, leading to infection. Bartonella henselae is another type of bacteria that can be spread to people through the saliva of cats.

Other illnesses that can be transmitted to people (zoonotic diseases) include:

• Giardia
• Rabies (most states require rabies vaccination)
• Leptospirosis
• Salmonella
• E. coli
• Cryptosporidium

West Park Animal Hospital encourages owners to consider vaccinating against leptospirosis and giardia if exposure seems likely (for example, a lot of time spent outdoors).

While acquiring infections, parasites, and illnesses from smooching a pet is rare, children and those with compromised immune systems should avoid contact with animal saliva, feces, and urine. Please contact us for more information about protecting you and your pet.

The Good News About Pet Kisses

Fortunately, the occasional pet kiss doesn’t warrant a hazmat suit or a case of Lysol. However, be prudent when dealing with young children since they’re more susceptible to parasites and bacterial infections (and always have their fingers in their mouths).

On a positive note, some studies have revealed a link between early exposure to the germs and bacteria pets carry and a decreased risk of developing certain allergies and asthma. In addition, pet saliva is thought to contain histatins which promote wound healing.

Rather than fight the inevitable early morning pet kisses, one of the best ways to diminish your risk of zoonotic diseases is through regular preventive care and hygiene. This includes:

• Annual fecal exams
• Tailored vaccinations and parasite preventives (based on lifestyle, exposure risk, etc.)
• Deworming
• Good hygiene at home (for example, teach children to wash their hands thoroughly before meals and after playing with a pet)
• Keep the yard free of feces
• Discourage your pet from eating feces or drinking from puddles, ponds, lakes, and other areas where wildlife are present

Remember, there’s always a risk of getting sick when it comes to pet kisses. To stay on the safe side, make sure your pet is healthy, vaccinated, and parasite-free before the lick bandit puts you or your family at risk.

SMOOCH!

The post Pucker Up! The Truth About Pet Kisses and Health appeared first on West Park Animal Hospital Blog.

It’s all fun and games until somebody gets hurt, or so the saying goes. We normally reserve this saying for our children, but in many cases it can be extended to our pets as well.

As of yet, there is no set standard for safety when it comes to pet playthings, so for the time being, it’s up to pet owners to figure out what constitutes safe pet toys and what doesn’t. Fortunately, you have several excellent tools at your disposal: the advice of your veterinarian, your knowledge of your individual pet, and your own common sense.

Safe Pet Toys For Dogs

Your dog’s size, energy level, and personal preferences should all come into play (pun intended) when you are choosing toys for him or her. Consider the following:

Chewing toys – We don’t recommend bones for dogs, as they can contribute to broken teeth, splinter and become lodged in the throat or mouth, or cause gastrointestinal obstruction or rupture. Instead, opt for durable, “indestructible” rubber toys such as the Kong toy, or Nylabone. Rawhide chew toys are not generally recommended and should only be given to your dog under supervision, as they could pose a choking hazard.

Stuffed toys – Dogs use stuffed toys in a variety of ways ranging from comfort to play hunting/killing. Stuffed toys should be large enough to prevent accidental swallowing and also sturdy enough to withstand “attacks”. Pet toys with squeakers inside should not be purchased for dogs with a penchant for ripping apart their toys, as the squeaker could become a choking risk.

Active toys – Tennis balls are perfect for dogs who love fetch, just be sure to discard them if they start to fall apart. There are a variety of food puzzle toys on the market, all of which are aimed at providing mental stimulation. Kong-type toys make great active toys and can be used for fetch, general carrying around, or can be stuffed with treats or frozen peanut butter.

Safe Pet Toys For Cats

There’s something special about watching a cat play, it’s even more exciting if you can get in on the action yourself!

• Cats love to bat at and pounce on balls and other small toys, just make sure kitty can’t get his or her paws on anything small enough to swallow. Chaser toys such as feather wands are a fun way for cat owners to engage in play with their kitties. Be sure to keep string, fishing line, and other household items away from your cat, as these could pose choking or strangulation risks.
• Many cats enjoy carrying around or “fighting” with plush toys. Just be sure your cat’s stuffed animals don’t have any small plastic parts that could pose a choking hazard.
• Cats and kittens love playing in paper bags! Paper bags and cardboard boxes make great toys for cats. Plastic bags, on the other hand, are not safe pet toys, as small pieces can be chewed off and swallowed.

Here Comes The Fun Part!

Now that you’ve educated yourself on what compromises a safe pet toy, it’s time to select some toys for your pet! You know your pet best, and his or her personality and “playing style” will help you to determine which types of toys to choose. Playing with your pet supports bonding between the two of you, so make sure you get in on the fun as well!

At West Park Animal Hospital, we believe strongly in the importance of play for all pets. Please don’t hesitate to contact us with any questions or concerns regarding safe pet toys.

The post Safety First: Choosing Safe Pet Toys appeared first on West Park Animal Hospital Blog.