Posts in Category: Pet Health & Wellness

When we think about what it means to raise a happy, healthy dog or cat, some things immediately come to mind: a nutritious diet, regular wellness care, vaccinations, and daily exercise.

Few pet owners think of socialization as a vital aspect of pet ownership, but the truth is, proper pet socialization is the backbone of your companion animal’s emotional health and physical safety.

What Is Pet Socialization?

Pet socialization is the process by which your pet learns how to be a part of human society. Some of your pet’s socialization will happen naturally as you move through daily life together, but it’s important to make sure that he or she is exposed to a variety of people, places, animals, noises, and smells early on in life. Continue…

Most cat owners are aware of their cat’s love of hiding…boxes, paper bags, cupboards, under the bed; it seems that no place is off limits to a curious feline. For their survival in the wild, cats have also evolved to hide signs of illness and injury from other animals. Unfortunately for modern cats, those “other animals” are often their human companions.

Because cats are so stoic when it comes to illness, and often don’t display obvious signs that something is wrong until the condition has become advanced, it’s up to us cat owners to do the detective work necessary in order to figure out if our cat is sick. Continue…

Thanks to significant advances in veterinary medicine, along with a respect for animals not seen in previous generations, pets are living longer than ever before. Although our adult pets may be active, playful, and in good health, many of us are not aware that after 6 or 7 years of age most cats and dogs are considered seniors.

Senior pets, just like senior humans, need extra care and attention to help them live the best lives possible. Changes in physical and mental health can happen rapidly once our pets enter their golden years, making it vitally important to keep up with our pet’s changing needs. Continue…

Thanks to significant advances in veterinary medicine, along with a respect for animals not seen in previous generations, pets are living longer than ever before. Although our adult pets may be active, playful, and in good health, many of us are not aware that after 6 or 7 years of age most cats and dogs are considered seniors.

Senior pets, just like senior humans, need extra care and attention to help them live the best lives possible. Changes in physical and mental health can happen rapidly once our pets enter their golden years, making it vitally important to keep up with our pet’s changing needs. Continue…

Injuries and diseases of the bone in pets are more common than most pet owners realize. Our pets play, run, spin, leap, and generally use their bodies in a variety of interesting and, sometimes dangerous, ways. Unfortunately, these youthful shenanigans can also have negative consequences.

Despite our best intentions, sometimes our pet’s activities can end up leading to bone, joint, and muscle injuries. In addition, many breeds carry with them genetic tendencies toward certain types of bone and joint damage, including, hip dysplasia, back and knee issues. At Lone Tree Veterinary Medical Center, we’re equipped to handle these problems and more through the use of orthopedic surgery. Continue…

Bringing a new puppy home is truly a one-of-a-kind experience. Those adorable paws, sweet puppy breath, sleepy snuggles, and sweet kisses not only cement the bond between you and your pup, but also make the more tedious tasks, such as house training, all the more bearable during your new puppy care time together.

Your newest family member needs much more than food and water to grow into a happy and thriving adult dog. At Lone Tree Veterinary Medical Center we consider it our mission to provide you with the tools and support to help your new companion live a long and healthy life. Continue…

Most pets will need to spend time in a crate or travel carrier at some point in their lives, whether it’s while being transported in a vehicle, during a boarding, grooming or a hospitalization stay, or in an emergency situation. Pets that are already familiar with and comfortable in a crate will experience significantly less stress and anxiety during those times when kenneling is required.

Although many people believe kenneling a pet is cruel, when used correctly, a crate can provide a safe haven for a dog or cat. Not only can it offer a quiet spot to rest, kenneling can help with overall training, as well. Continue…

As animal owners, we are intimately familiar with our pet’s habits, likes, and dislikes. But how are we to know when our pet’s joints are beginning to feel the effects of arthritis, or if his or her liver isn’t functioning at its peak? This is where the wellness exam comes in.

Your pet’s regularly scheduled wellness visits are about so much more than just another round of shots (although that’s important too!). Every time we see your pet we have the opportunity to get to know him or her better, to catch any problems that may be brewing, and to answer your questions regarding your pet’s health. Continue…