Shaving Pets, Maggots, and Allergies: Oh My!

Did you know: Heavily coated dogs are MUCH more comfortable in the summer if they are shaved! It is a myth that that beautiful hair protects them from heat. Shaving can also help eliminate hairballs in cats.

Did you know: Flies are attracted to open wounds, ear infections, or feces caught in a pet’s hair? They will lay their eggs in the hair and maggots will munch on your pet from the inside out which is painful and life threatening. Keep pets clean and treat infections to prevent your pet becoming a tasty snack.

Did you know: Pets can have allergies just like people. They react to ingredients in food such as chicken, soy, wheat, corn and inhaled allergens such as molds, grasses and pollens like people, but they itch instead of achoo. Recurring skin and ear infections may hint at underlying allergies that may require medication. Allergies CAN be treated!

Did you know: Dogs can develop tumors in their anal sacs? The anal sacs, or glands, are two scent sacs inside the anus of the dog and cat.  Request a rectal exam as part of your dog's yearly check up in any dog over 2 years old. While most of these tumors are usually cancer, if these tumors are found early they can be removed very successfully!

Did you know: Pets can develop masses on their bodies.  While not every mass or tumor is cancer it should be investigated as soon as you find it.  Your vet should perform cytology to diagnose what type of mass it is.  Some masses can be ignored.  Some are cancer and time is critical to give your pet the most treatment options.  So schedule your pet for it's monthly "pat down".  Skim your hands over every part of your pet's body- including between toes, in armpits, and the groin so you don't miss anything abnormal.  If you find something suspicious call your vet.