Turner Veterinary Clinic News
Knowing the Signs of Pet Cancer Could Save a Life
Cancer is the leading cause of death in dogs and cats, particularly when the animal is over age 10. According to the American Veterinary Medical Association, 50 percent of senior dogs and 33 percent of senior cats die of some type of cancer. No matter what the age of the pet, a cancer diagnosis often comes as a complete shock to his owner. That is because dogs and cats are good at hiding their symptoms and don't have the ability to verbalize that something is wrong.
Come See Us When Your Pet is Well
October is National Pet Wellness Month. This purpose of this awareness campaign is to help pet owners understand the importance of preventive care. Visiting Turner Veterinary Clinic once a year when your pet is not sick or injured gives Dr. Huelsbergen the opportunity to check for unknown health issues, follow-up on previous treatment plans, and monitor her weight, growth, and behavior. We recommend bi-annual preventive care exams for senior pets due to their changing health needs. If you have a puppy or kitten, Dr. Huelsbergen will discuss the preferred vaccine and exam schedule at her first appointment.
It's Happy Healthy Cat Month
Although your cat probably thinks it should be every month, September is officially Happy Healthy Cat Month. The love and care you provide your cat makes a big difference in his longevity and overall well-being. Cats are wonderful companions who really ask for so little in exchange for the purrs, snuggles, and unconditional love. In honor of this special month, here are some things you can do to give your cat the happy life he deserves:
- Provide several places to sleep and hide throughout your home. Cats need a place to retreat when they feel fearful in addition to wanting privacy from time to time.
- Get your cat microchipped and provide her with a collar and identification tag. This greatly increases the chances of a happy reunion should she ever become separated from you.
- Feed your cat nutritious food, limit treats, and make him work for his food sometimes. Place it inside of a toy or in different places around the house to satisfy his natural hunting instinct. This also gives him much-needed exercise.
- Make sure your cat has plenty of toys and spend a few minutes each day playing with her. Cats are just as entertained batting at a piece of string as they are with an expensive toy from the pet store. Playing with your cat encourages exercise, mental stimulation, and the human-feline bond.
- Place scratching posts in a few different areas of your home to give your cat the chance to sharpen his claws as well as release the natural need to scratch. This saves your furniture too.
Regular Veterinary Care is the Most Important of All
A 2013 study by the American Association of Feline Practitioners indicates that more than half of all cats don't see the veterinarian regularly. Although more than 80 percent visit the vet during their first year of life, cat owners seem to only bring them in when they are sick or injured after that. At Turner Veterinary Clinic, we encourage all cat owners to schedule a physical exam at least once a year. This is important for early diagnosis, monitoring, and treatment of feline diseases as well as to track your cat's growth. Dr. Huelsbergen looks forward to seeing you and your cat soon.
Categories
Recent Posts
Did you know that pets accidentally start nearly 1,000 house fires every year in the United States? It’s a scary thought, but it doesn’t have to be a reality in your home. Our furry companions are naturally curious and love to explore their surroundings, but sometimes their adventures can put them, and your entire household, at risk. The good news? With a little awareness and a few easy changes, you can protect your pets and keep your home safe from fire hazards
If your dog won’t stop licking, chewing, or scratching one spot, it’s natural to wonder: “Is something wrong with my pet?” While occasional itching can be common, constant attention to a single area can signal a more serious issue, such as a hot spot. These inflamed patches of skin can appear almost overnight and quickly become painful and infected without treatment.
Let’s explore what hot spots are, what causes them, and how to help your dog heal quickly.
Sunshine, open windows, and the promise of new adventures—summer road trips are hard to resist. And if you’re like many pet parents, there’s no way you're leaving your four-legged friend behind. Whether you're headed to a cabin up north, the lake for the weekend, or on a cross-country tour, traveling with pets takes some extra planning. But with a little prep, your journey can be just as smooth for them as it is for you.
Before you gas up the car and grab the treats, here’s what you need to know to help your pet stay healthy, safe, and comfortable on the road.
Think heartworm is just a summertime issue? Or that your indoor cat is safe from it? You're not alone—many pet owners have heard (and believed) myths about heartworm disease. But the truth is, this serious and potentially deadly condition affects pets in every state and can impact even those who never leave the house.
Let’s clear up the confusion and give you the real facts about heartworm—so you can protect your furry family members with confidence.
February is here, and love is in the air! But while you're showering your loved ones with chocolate, flowers and cards, don’t forget the furry members of your family. This month is National Pet Dental Health Month and a perfect time to prioritize your pet's dental health. Just like us, pets can develop dental problems that impact their overall health and happiness.
Proper dental care can improve your pet’s quality of life and even extend their lifespan. Here, we’ll share essential tips to ensure your pet’s teeth stay healthy and strong.