Does Your Pet Suffer From Springtime Allergies?

May 15th, 2013

itchy dogsApril showers bring May flowers – and with those flowers comes one thing, pollen. Humans are not the only ones affected by pollen and the seasonal allergies it can cause. Animals, including our beloved dogs and cats, suffer from hay fever and allergies just like we do. And, unfortunately, their suffering is just as miserable as ours. Read the rest of this entry »

Whipworms in Pets: Protecting Your Pet Against Intestinal Parasites

May 8th, 2013

A cut of soilSome intestinal parasites are easier to get rid of than others, and perhaps none is quite as formidable as the dreaded whipworm. A relatively common parasite of the dog (as well as coyotes and foxes), the whipworm, or Trichuris vulpis, can be hard to get rid of. Read the rest of this entry »

Happy Tails! The Ins and Outs of Boarding Your Pet

May 1st, 2013

 

HotelWith summer just around the corner, many of our clients have been contacting us with questions about our boarding services. We understand that leaving your pet for an extended period of time can be stressful for you both. We also realize you want to know that your furry friend is in good hands and receiving the love and care he or she deserves while you’re away.

So, if you’re planning on hitting the open road this summer, but won’t be taking your pet along for the ride, here are some helpful hints for preparing your pet for his or her stay at Naperville Animal Hospital’s Dog Suites and Kitty Condos.

Read the rest of this entry »

Forever Family

April 24th, 2013

newpet_iStock_000004223999XSmall

The decision to adopt a new pet brings an excitement unlike any other. Whether you’re looking to adopt a cat, dog, bird or pocket pet, your new bundle of joy is likely to bring big changes to your household. So how do you make the transition a smooth success? By letting the “pet experts” of Naperville guide the way.

Ask Yourself a Few Key Questions

Before heading to the shelter to adopt a new furry friend ask yourself a few key questions and really consider your answers. If you find that the answers to these questions are iffy or don’t sit right with what you know your soon-to-be pet deserves, then the time for adopting might not be right.  Read the rest of this entry »

Poodle with a Mohawk: Dog Grooming with Style and Service

April 17th, 2013

 

Grooming Blue FurWith Spring on its way,  shedding season is upon us. That means the time has come to schedule your pooch for his or her Spring-cleaning. Even if you have your pet on a regular grooming schedule, the time is perfect to freshen up your pet’s look with a new do or a fun flourish of color or scent.

Just like us, pets love to be pampered. A day at the spa can be just as rejuvenating for your pooch as it is for you. Add in a fresh new look and a jaunty little bow or bandana and you’ll notice a spring in your pup’s step that lets you know he or she is feeling frisky.  Read the rest of this entry »

PUPPY TRAINING: IS IT IMPORTANT?

April 10th, 2013

Puppies ready for training

With spring well on its way, everyone—human and animal alike—is looking to get outdoors and play. After being cooped up all winter, the sunshine and warm weather are irresistible. It’s only natural that you want to take your puppy out for a run or a game of fetch at the local dog park.

Without proper obedience training though, your day in the sun can quickly turn into a power struggle between you and your pooch. Read the rest of this entry »

Diagnostic Screening for Your Pet: Early Warning System for Disease

April 3rd, 2013

 

Screening blood1 iStock_000004528468XSmallHave you ever had a diagnostic screening test? You know, when your doctor insists on checking your cholesterol levels, taking your blood pressure, or testing for glaucoma–even though you feel perfectly healthy?

Screening tests are a common strategy used to identify those who have a certain condition or disease even though they are not necessarily exhibiting symptoms.

These diagnostic screening tests are a powerful tool in both human and veterinary medicine, as many diseases respond better to treatment when they are caught early in their course. Many of the tests also provide valuable wellness information that allows your vet to make recommendations for diet or lifestyle to maintain wellness. Read the rest of this entry »

Canine Parvovirus and Your Pup

March 27th, 2013

 

 

iStock_000016544906XSmallSpring has sprung, and with it a whole new slew of pet hazards need to be on your radar. One common danger for pups is the dreaded canine parvovirus. While “parvo” can strike any time of the year, it is most common in the spring and summer months.

So what is this disease all about? Read the rest of this entry »

New Pet Checklist – Helping Your New Pew Stay Happy & Healthy

March 20th, 2013

 

Spring is upon us, and many families will be welcoming new furry pet companions into their homes.  When taking in a new pet, it is important to be sure that you are ready to provide everything that he or she will need.  Use the following checklist to ensure that you don’t forget anything!

  • Good nutrition

Choose a quality diet that meets your pet’s life stage (puppy/kitten, adult, senior), size, and energy needs.  Make any diet changes slowly over a period of 10-14 days. Read the rest of this entry »

Know Thy Enemy: Heartworms in Pets

March 13th, 2013

 

Heartworms are a parasite that every pet owner should be familiar with. How much do you really know about this serious and formidable foe? See if you can answer the following questions.

 

Q:  True or false?  Heartworms only affect dogs.

A:  False. While heartworm disease is mostly a dog problem, cats, ferrets, wolves, coyotes, foxes, and sea lions can all be infected. Read the rest of this entry »