Posts in Category: Pet Health & Wellness

It is impossible to watch your pet every second of the day, and sometimes our furry family members can get into food, plants, or household items that could be dangerous to their health. 

The team at The Bluffs Pet Clinic wants to help you understand more about what is considered toxic for your animals so you can master pet poison prevention in your home and avoid an unfortunate accident.

Have pictures and videos of really cute puppies and kittens been flooding your feed lately? Or have you taken it one step further over the past several weeks or months and adopted a four-legged angel of your own? Perhaps due to our increased time at home right now, or the need for a little emotional support, young pets are making a huge impact on folks of all ages. 

Kitten and puppy care is definitely rewarding, but it’s not always easy or straightforward. Luckily, we’ve got some tips to make your journey through animal infancy as enjoyable as possible.  Continue…

The long months of winter can have most of us wanting to curl up on the couch. Add to that the busyness of the holidays, frequent travel, and inclement weather, and keeping up with your pet’s exercise needs can be a challenge.

Thankfully your friends at The Bluffs Pet Clinic have some fun, exciting, and easy winter activities for your pet that will have you both up and moving. Let’s take a look at some of our favorite winter activities for pets – and you, too! Continue…

Just like humans, pets can suffer from seasonal allergies or allergies that persist throughout the year. Pet allergies usually manifest as itchy or inflamed skin, rather than sneezing and watery eyes that people are prone too. 

Seasonal pet allergies is one of the most common conditions we see in our veterinary practice. Symptoms can be intense and extremely uncomfortable for pets, and can affect their quality of life. 

Allergies cannot be cured, but they can be effectively managed. With knowledge, patience and support from The Bluffs Pet Clinic, you’ll be on the right track to managing seasonal pet allergies in no time.  Continue…

On July 6, 1885, French biologist Louis Pasteur successfully administered the first vaccination against a zoonotic disease – that is, a disease that can be spread between humans and animals. Each year World Zoonoses Day is celebrated as a way to commemorate this historic event, and raise awareness about the risks of zoonotic diseases.

Intestinal parasites is another example of an organism that can be passed from our furry friends to us, and can wreak havoc on the health and well being of pets and people. In honor of World Zoonoses Day, we would like to highlight the very common problem of intestinal parasites in pets, and what pet owners can do to protect their two and four-legged family members. Continue…

Cats have earned their reputations as low-maintenance pets. But just because they don’t require daily walks or basic obedience training doesn’t mean they don’t benefit from routine veterinary care. Cats have evolved to mask any signs of weakness, meaning that chronic illness or injury can go undetected – and untreated  – sometimes until it’s too late. However, when an owner maintains annual cat wellness exams, their feline is given a better chance for a longer, healthier life.

The Forest Through the Trees

When it comes to routine veterinary care, cats have two strikes against them. First of all, they generally detest travel, the possibility of unwanted encounters, and the prodding hands of strangers. Perhaps more worrisome is that a majority of cat owners erroneously perceive their cats are healthy when they could benefit from medical intervention.

An Ounce of Prevention

Disease prevention is the forefront of cat wellness exams. Not only do cats need vaccinations, parasite prevention, and dental care throughout their lives, regular exams are important for getting in front of developing illnesses. Sometimes health conditions are related to age, but cats can suffer from various illnesses without proactive, preventive care.

The Schedule

Young and adult cats should be seen once a year for comprehensive wellness examinations. Once they turn about 9 years old, we refer to them as senior cats, and recommend exams every six months. We also recommend senior screening blood work and a urinalysis to screen for early disease, such as kidney, liver or thyroid disease just to name a few.   Seeing them more often can help toward sustaining high quality of life, decreasing pain, and supporting age-appropriate nutrition. Adhering to this schedule may slow down the aging process and keep them in great shape.

Shifting Approach to Cat Wellness

Previously, pets were seen by veterinarians only when they got sick or injured. We are always here to treat pet emergencies at The Bluffs Pet Clinic of Red Wing, but many illnesses that bring cats in are entirely preventable. When we see them on a regular basis, we can work together to address all of a cat’s unique needs – long before they get out of control.

Getting to Know You

An important aspect of cat wellness care is that our staff at the hospital are fear-free certified which hinges on building relationships with the owners. When we’re able to communicate effectively, cats have the chance to get the best care possible. We are happy to address your questions and concerns, and encourage you to take notes at home about your cat’s behavior patterns.

At your cat’s routine exam, we’ll pay close attention to the following:

• Nose-to-tail physical health, with a special focus on weight management
• Appearance of the coat, skin, ears, eyes, and teeth
• Diagnostics, such as parasite/disease screening
• Individualized vaccinations and parasite prevention medication
• Nutrition and exercise
• Heart rate
• Abdominal palpation
• Behavioral consultation

Quality of Life

We always look forward to meeting new feline patients and strive to build trust with their owners in order to deliver excellent veterinary care that all cats deserve. If you have any questions or concerns regarding cat wellness and lifelong health, please let us know.

If your pet’s bad breath drives you away as she tries to snuggle up to you on the couch, you may be thinking it’s time for a dental chew. But bad breath can signify deeper dental problems than a simple treat can fix – namely pet periodontal disease.

The problems with periodontal disease go further than bad breath. With over 85% of pets affected by the time they reach 3 years of age, it’s no surprise that this topic gets a lot of our attention. Also known as dental disease, periodontal disease in pets can cause bleeding gums, tooth loss, and even systemic disease of the heart, liver, and kidneys.

Luckily, periodontal disease is preventable. We know that conscientious pet owners want to do the best they can for their pets. Here’s some information to help you do just that.

How Periodontal Disease Happens

Periodontal disease in pets is the progressive inflammation of the supporting structures of the teeth. Here’s how it workds:

• It starts when bacteria in the mouth form plaque that sticks to the teeth.
• Minerals in your pet’s saliva then bond with the plaque, causing it to harden into tartar.
• Bacteria that cling to the plaque and tartar then work their way under your pet’s gum line, causing gum inflammation (gingivitis).
• If tartar is not controlled, it can progress to periodontitis. When this happens, bacteria destroy the supporting structures of the tooth, including the soft tissues surrounding it, the root, and the bone below.

Signs of Periodontal Disease

Pet owners sometimes have a difficult time noticing the first signs of dental disease. We recommend annual preventive care visits in order to spot the signs of dental disease early and treat small problems before they become advanced.

Signs to look for include:

• Bad breath
• Drooling
• Red or bleeding gums
• Pawing at the mouth
• Pain or sensitivity
• Loss of interest in chew toys
• Difficulty eating (sometimes looks like messy eating)
• Chewing on one side of the mouth
• Sudden preference for soft food

It is rare that an animal will actually stop eating from dental disease, but you may notice changes in their interest or comfort while eating.

Treating and Preventing Periodontal Disease

Although dental disease is common, the good news is that it is preventable. Treatment and prevention of dental disease can add years to your pet’s life and help keep them comfortable and healthy. Here’s how we do it:

• Regular wellness exams, even for seemingly healthy pets
• Professional dental cleanings as recommended
• Digital dental x-rays to check for disease under the gum line
• At home care, including brushing your pet’s teeth daily (we can teach you how!)

If you have any questions about your pet’s health, please don’t hesitate to give us a call. Your team at The Bluffs Pet Clinic is ready to help!

Sharing your life with an animal is such a worthwhile experience, but bringing home a new pet is not without its challenges. First and foremost, pet owners must be able to responsibly provide for their new addition in every possible way. But don’t worry – preparing for and meeting the needs of your new pet can be fun!

Before You Roll Out the Welcome Mat

It’s common for animal lovers to convince themselves that love is all they need to care for a new pet. This is undoubtedly important, but without a commonsense approach to living quarters, sustainability, and commitment, even the most loved pet is still at risk of being surrendered. Before making any final decisions, ask yourself the following questions:

• Are you allowed to have a pet where you live? If so, is a pet deposit required? Do your living quarters realistically support the needs of a potential pet (backyard space, living with other pets, access to exercise, etc.)?
• Do you live with others who may have allergies or aversions to certain species or breeds?
• Do you make enough money to meet the health care needs of a pet?
• Are you willing to dedicate several hours each week to training and exercising your new pet?
• Have you considered the needs of other animals you already own?

The Right Match

Choosing the right pet for you is a huge part of the adoption equation. It’s a decision that will impact others for many years and must be one that lasts forever. We’re happy to help you make this life-changing decision.

Bringing Your New Pet Home

Once all the major factors have been considered, there’s a lot that must happen at home and around your property to ensure your new pet’s safety, comfort, and happiness.

• Pet proof your space. Take a close look at what your new pet may encounter. Cords, electrical wires, and other entrapment risks should be removed. Cleaning chemicals, certain plants, medications, and personal products must also be stored properly. Be sure to stash all food off tables and counters.
• Talk with others in your home. If you live with other people, spend time with your roommates or family members (especially kids) discussing how to care for your new pet.
• Get the right gear. Your new pet will require food, bowls, bedding, toys, and ID tags to wear on a new collar and leash. It’s also important to consider bathroom and crate needs.

The First Vet Visit

Some pets are spayed or neutered before adoption and receive some vaccines and parasite preventives. That being said, it’s vital to get a head start on your new pet’s wellness as early as a few days after bringing them home. During your visit, we can discuss any potential problems, the need for training, and address the importance of microchipping.

It can take a few weeks to a few months for everyone in your home to become accustomed to your new pet. If we can help move the transition along, please contact us.

Congratulations on your new pet!

If you ask anyone living outside of Minnesota about our seasons, they may mention the one season we’re famous for – an extremely long winter. All kidding aside, we do have a full four seasons with temperature extremes during both the winter and summer. Instead of bitter cold and snow, however, we tend to face high heat and humidity between Memorial Day and Labor Day.

What does all of this mean for your four-legged friend? For starters, pet anxiety is a real possibility because the shift in weather leads to 30-40 thunderstorms in southern Minnesota alone. Loud noises and changes in air pressure can impact pets more intensely than they impact us.

Such a Display

Thunderstorms have the potential to mesmerize – or terrorize – pets and people alike. The sheer display of power can trigger a sense of awe, but for those with noise sensitivities, storms are a formidable foe. Not only can they be stressful for the animal in your care, but pet anxiety can toss everyone into a real tailspin.

Know the Score

Before a storm’s telltale first rumble, an anxious pet may start to pace, hide, whine, cling to specific people, or even try to bolt. Thundershirts are effective antidotes to stressful situations, as they’re often compared to swaddling a baby. Sure, if a pet doesn’t enjoy wearing vests, sweaters, or any type of clothing, it may be a challenge. However, over time, this drug-free option may be a great solution for pet anxiety.

Shelter From the Storm

Pet anxiety can also be triggered by fireworks, loud music, and the unpredictability of surrounding strangers. It’s not always easy to zero-in on a pet’s behaviors, but you can also try the following to soothe frayed nerves:

• Desensitize your pet by playing recordings of thunderstorms and rain during the off-season. When a storm does ultimately roll in, he or she may not get as upset.
• Do not reward negative behaviors triggered by stress (this will only perpetuate them). Instead, model calm behavior and reward your pet when he or she follows suit.
• If you’re out in a storm, make sure your pet is attached to you via leash. A general rule is to keep your pet close to you during the length of the storm.
• Establish crate training before the summer. This will allow your pet the option to hunker down during thunderstorms or the Fourth of July, bolstering his or her sense of security. Just make sure your pet is not confined inside the crate or kennel, and replenish any water or treats as needed.
• Reduce pet anxiety during a storm or fireworks display by placing your pet in a small room with few or no windows. Turn on some white noise, TV, or music to distract and calm your pet.
• If you pet is willing, try to play with him or her during the storm to create a new positive association. Of course, if your pet is too upset, simply be there and offer snuggles, strokes, and scratches.

Calming Pet Anxiety

It may be in your pet’s best interest to have a medication prescribed for anxiety. There are also other products including herbal therapies that we’re happy to discuss with you prior to the biggest season for thunderstorms, fireworks, crowds, and parties. If we can help ease your pet’s suffering, we encourage you to contact us.

Modern veterinary medicine is amazing. Animals are living longer than ever before, and sick pets have an incredible number of options for their treatment and care. Organ transplants, immunotherapy for cancer, and advanced orthopedic surgeries are a reality.

At The Bluffs Pet Clinic, it is important to us to bring options to our pet patients. We accomplish this through alternative and complementary treatment modalities like veterinary acupuncture. Keep reading to learn how this type of therapy is helping our veterinary patients.

Acupuncture 101

While it may look like sticking needles haphazardly into an unsuspecting patient, acupuncture is an ancient and intricate technique.

One of the four branches of Traditional Chinese Veterinary Medicine (TCVM), acupuncture has been around for thousands of years. Veterinary acupuncture utilizes the insertion of special needles into the body at very specific locations in order to stimulate strategic points. Acupuncture points are located along the channels that Qi, or energy, is thought to move through within  the body.

Acupuncture aims to correct energy flow imbalances and disharmony that are created due to disease and weakness.

A certified acupuncture clinician, such as our own Dr. Cook, uses their knowledge of acupuncture and other TCVM principles to augment more traditional treatments for pets in need.

Helping Pets Through Veterinary Acupuncture

Acupuncture can be used for a great many purposes in veterinary medicine. Any disease or condition that we can diagnose can be benefited from veterinary acupuncture.

Some of the more common applications include:

• Management of orthopedic disease
• Treatment of nerve injuries and diseases
• Pain relief
• Treatment of gastrointestinal disturbances
• Management of seizure disorders
• Support of healthy organ function
• Treatment of respiratory problems
• Augmentation of immune function
• Treatment of inflammation

Acupuncture is typically well tolerated by our pet patients and offers very few side effects. Adverse reactions are uncommon when the treatments are performed by a professional.

The best part about veterinary acupuncture is that it complements traditional veterinary medicine so well. There is no need to rely on only Western medicine to treat a pet for osteoarthritis. Acupuncture can offer another means of relief that may be even more effective when combined with things like medications, supplements, and physical therapy.

We know how important it is to our pet owners to provide the very best care for their four-legged family members. At The Bluffs Pet Clinic, we are committed to opening doors to our animal patients wherever we can. If you would like to learn more about how acupuncture can help your pet, call us today. We are happy to answer all your questions and get started with a treatment plan, personalized for your best friend.