Leptospirosis: A Real and Present Threat

A dog rolling in the mud and drinking from a puddle.

Although most dog owners have heard of leptospirosis, and many others make sure their pet is vaccinated against it, the disease remains somewhat of a mystery to many pet owners. This contagious disease that affects both pets and people is on the rise in the United States and Canada, and depending on your pet’s lifestyle, he or she may be at risk. 

Understanding leptospirosis, how it’s transmitted, and what you can do to protect your pet, may be an essential part of your dog’s continuing good health and longevity.

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Help! My Old Dog Smells Bad

A smelly old dog is taking a bath to help eliminate the odor.

Even if you don’t live with a dog, or never have, you could probably still identify with their distinct stink. Sure, puppies have that sort of sweet-smelling funk to them, but it often wears off as they grow up. Dogs might not always smell, but they can give off a fetid odor as they paw through old age.

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Happy Camper: Pet Travel Tips for Fun & Safety

Traveling with pets.

The world has really opened up to well-behaved pets. These days we can take them almost anywhere we need to go, and many businesses go the extra mile to accommodate our four-legged friends. This doesn’t mean we’re given carte-blanche, but it does mean it’s easier than ever before to go on vacation with your pet. Of course, it’s up to you to decide if your pet is up for the break-in routine and all that traveling demands. But if they’re healthy and prepared, this could be the trip of a lifetime.

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Looking For Healthy Pet Snacks to Get Through the Holidays? Look No Further.

Pets enjoy holiday treats.

Few of us have the willpower not to overindulge during the holidays. There’s just so much to eat, particularly hard-to-resist foods that happen to be loaded with calories. Our pets know how much we love to eat because they watch our every move, especially if we’re poking around in the fridge. Just as they mirror our emotional states, pets tend to crave the same things that we do during the holidays. The best way to counter their hankerings is to offer tasty pet snacks that don’t add to their waistline.

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Good Behavior at the Dog Park

Two dogs wrestling at the park

It can take some time in childhood and adolescence to figure out the right ways to behave in certain situations, and the same is true for dogs. They don’t instinctively know what their owners expect of them. Instead, they need to learn how to act accordingly, and many figure it out the hard way. 

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Thanksgiving Treats Your Pets Will Be Grateful For

Pet waiting for holiday treat.

The welcoming aromas of pecan-topped sweet potatoes, roasted turkey, and homemade pumpkin pie might attract more than people to your Thanksgiving table! When your pup or cat stares upward in anticipation, it’s easy to cave to their cuteness. But should you?

This holiday season, the team at East Sacramento Veterinary Center reminds all pet families of the importance of Thanksgiving pet safety. With a little pre-planning, your pets can enjoy their own safe and nutritious Thanksgiving dinner. 

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What to Know About Cancer in Pets

Cancer in pets.

The fact that there are many unknowns can make a cancer diagnosis much more challenging. Because each case is unique, it’s not always clear how cancer will affect a pet’s lifestyle and lifespan. There is definitely room for hope, but it’s important to move quickly toward an effective medical plan after the initial diagnosis. Cancer in pets can be treated (and even cured), and many animals maintain a high quality of life throughout the ordeal.

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Pet-Friendly Halloween Treats

Sacramento cat at Halloween.

Candy corn, bite-sized Snickers, and Tootsie Rolls might taste great to us, but they should never be shared with our animal companions, no matter how much they might beg us for a sample! This Halloween, the team at East Sacramento Veterinary Center reminds all pet families to keep Halloween pet safety top of mind when planning for a season of tricks and treats.

Your pet can join in the fun safely with the following tips for finding (or making your own) pet-friendly Halloween treats.

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