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Preventive Care & Wellness + English

  • Socialization is the process during which the kitten becomes familiar with people, other animals, and many aspects of their environment. Kittens are primed for socialization when they are between two and seven weeks old. As soon as kittens have settled into their new home, they can begin gentle exposures to a wide range of stimuli that they may encounter as adults.

  • Choosing to bring a new pet into your life is an exciting journey. Many people decide to adopt, rather than shop, for a pet, since there are so many cats and dogs who need homes. This handout outlines some key resources for adopting pets so you can find the right pet for your family.

  • Spaying is the common term for the surgical procedure known as an ovariohysterectomy. In this procedure, the ovaries and uterus are removed to sterilize a female cat. This operation requires a general anesthetic and complications are rare. Spaying is recommended to prevent ovarian and uterine cancer, prevent unwanted pregnancy, and reduce the risk of mammary cancer and pyometra.

  • Spaying is the common term for the surgical procedure known as an ovariohysterectomy. In this procedure, the ovaries and uterus are removed to sterilize a female dog. This operation requires a general anesthetic and complications are rare. Spaying is recommended to prevent ovarian and uterine cancer, prevent unwanted pregnancy, and reduce the risk of mammary cancer and pyometra.

  • There are many health and behavioral benefits associated with spaying your rabbit, such as preventing unwanted pregnancies, reducing her risk for reproductive cancers, and minimizing the stress associated with sexual frustration. This handout explains the surgical procedure, post-operative care at home, and, although rare, possible complications that may occur.

  • Spaying is a surgery that prevents a female rat from becoming pregnant. An ovariohysterectomy is when the veterinarian removes both ovaries and the uterus. In an ovariectomy, the veterinarian removes only the ovaries. Spaying at an early age eliminates the risk of ovarian and uterine cancer and reduces the risk of breast and pituitary gland cancers in rats.

  • Canine grooming is important. Dogs should be kept clean, be brushed often, and get clipped as needed. If you want to do something more unique, like applying nail polish or hair dye, choose a canine-approved product that is appropriately applied while the dog is monitored.

  • Strokes are rare in cats. Some causes include a blood clot such as a thrombus or embolus that lodges in a cerebral blood vessel, cerebral bleeding from trauma, or a blood clotting disorder; however, the cause is often unknown. Signs of a stroke are variable depending on the regions of the brain affected and the degree and duration of blood and oxygen deprivation. Magnetic resonance imaging is the ideal diagnostic test for diagnosing a stroke. Treatment is complex and there is no guarantee of complete success. Your veterinarian will help you assess progress and plan remedial action.

  • Many pets initially resist having their claws trimmed. This is partly because their paws are sensitive and partly because they are uncomfortable being restrained for the procedure. By taking the time to do some gentle, systematic training and conditioning, you can teach your pet to relax and accept nail trims as part of their regular health maintenance program.

  • Many pets are sensitive to being restrained for grooming. With slow progress and positive rewards, your pet can learn to accept or even enjoy having their teeth cleaned.