Dog care, symptoms, health issues, and dog health advocacy from an owner's perspective. In loving memory of Jasmine.
How important is having somebody looking over the shoulder of a veterinarian when they care for your dog? Veterinary mistakes and mishaps happen. The difference is that sometimes things can go wrong and it’s nobody’s fault. And sometimes somebody screwed up. Is there a way to prevent that? Brandy was a sweet, happy Cocker Spaniel who loved to play. One…
When I reflect on all the veterinarians we’ve worked with—and it had been quite a few, it brings up an important question. What makes a good veterinarian? Out of all the choices you need to make for your dog’s well-being, this is one of the essential decisions. A good veterinarian is worth their weight in gold. Spoiler alert: A good…
Kennel cough is a respiratory infection in dogs. It is a lay term for an infectious respiratory disease (CIRD) complex. Even though the symptoms are similar, the term paints a picture different from a common cold, doesn’t it? The underlying infection behind kennel cough can be bacteria, viruses, or a combination of both. Some of these microorganisms are more commonly…
Did your veterinarian answer all your questions and addressed your concerns? Are there things you forgot to ask? Don’t ever leave the vet’s office unless you’re fully satisfied that you understand what is going on with your dog. You should be walking out either with a diagnosis and a treatment plan or at least a plan of action and further…
Do you know what questions to ask your veterinarian? In the past, when I was going to a vet, whether it was for a scheduled exam or with a medical problem, I just went. What else would one need, right? Show up, bring the dog–that’s it, isn’t it? Then I came home and realized how many things I forgot to…