Skip to main content
Monthly Archives

May 2017

May 15
Love0

Taking Fido to the Beach

By Blog No Comments

Do you plan on taking your dog to the shore this summer? Many of our canine pals love fun in the sun! However, the beach can be dangerous for dogs, so you’ll want to take some precautions to keep your furry buddy safe. Read on for some great tips on taking Fido to the beach from a San Leandro, CA vet.

Training

Make sure that Fido knows—and obeys—basic doggy commands, like Sit, Stay, Come, Heel, and Lay Down. This is very important, as it can keep your pup near you, and away from dangerous areas.

Currents

Avoid bringing your canine buddy to beaches with strong currents and/or heavy wakes. These areas can be extremely dangerous for Man’s Best Friend!

Swimming

Before bringing Fido to the shore, take time to teach him how to swim. Keep in mind that swimming isn’t suitable for all of our furry friends. Some dogs love the water, but others, like pugs and other brachys, get winded very quickly, and can easily get into trouble at the beach. The shore can be especially dangerous for small dogs, as they are often over their heads in very shallow water. Ask your vet for specific recommendations.

Heat

Dogs can easily get overheated from running and playing at the beach. After all, Fido is already wearing a fur coat! Bring along plenty of water for your pooch. If you notice your canine friend panting, immediately give him some water and get him out of the sun. If he still seems hot, and/or is lethargic, drooling, or vomiting, contact your vet immediately.

Paw Care

Fido’s paw pads are very delicate, especially when they are wet. Your canine companion could get painful blisters from running around on the sand! Beaches are also dangerous because the sand can hide things like shells, sharp rocks, and broken glass. Use paw balm or wax to protect your furry pal’s feet, and try to keep him on soft ground.

Fur and Skin

Did you know that dogs can get sunburns? If your four-legged buddy has thin or pale skin, ask your vet for advice on putting pet-safe sunscreen on him. We also recommend rinsing Fido off before you take him home.

Please contact us with any questions or concerns about caring for your dog. As your local San Leandro, CA vet clinic, we are always happy to help!

May 01
Love0

How to Create the Purrfect Catio

By Blog No Comments

Do you have a screened porch or sunroom? Why not make a catio for your kitty? Fluffy is both safer and healthier living indoors, but who says she can’t have the best of both worlds? A local San Leandro, CA vet offers some helpful tips on creating a great catio in this article.

Kitty Furniture

A catio is a purrfect place to put your kitty’s cat tower. You can also add a catwalk, or some wall-mounted furniture. If you own your home, and really want to spoil your pet, consider building Fluffy a customized yard enclosure.

A Room With A View

Ideally, your feline pal’s catio should look out over a spot with an interesting view. If your backyard is small or plain, add a few birdfeeders to make it more entertaining for your furball. Cat love spying on local wildlife!

Cat Toys

Playing is great for Fluffy, both mentally and physically. Make sure your pet’s catio includes lots of fun toys. You can include classic kitty toys, like catnip mice or little plastic balls, which are always popular. You can also try something new, like catnip bubbles, or robotic mice.

Plants

No catio is complete without some kitty-friendly plants! After all, one of Fluffy’s favorite outdoor activities is peeking out thorough green leaves. Set out some nontoxic plants for your furball, so she can get a taste of nature. Catnip and cat grass may be the obvious choices, but there are many other great options. You can find a full list of safe and unsafe plants at the ASPCA website.

Beds

Make sure to add lots of comfy beds for Fluffy to relax in. You can find many kitty beds in stores, but if you want to do something a little different, look online for great DIY ideas. You can turn an old suitcase, hatbox, or even an end table into a cute kitty bed for your drowsy feline friend.

Finishing Touches

After adding all of these things, you may find that you still have plenty of room left over for yourself. Add some comfy furniture and decorations, and you’ve got a cute, cozy reading nook or entertainment area.

Is your cat due for an exam, vaccinations, or parasite control? Please contact us, your San Leandro, CA animal clinic, for all of your pet’s veterinary care needs. We are here to help!