Welcome to our “Ask Dr. Paola” collection, the place each Monday we deliver skilled recommendation straight from Dr. Paola Cuevas (MVZ) to assist our readers higher perceive their canine’s well being and well-being.
Whether or not you’re a brand new pet guardian or a seasoned canine lover, Dr. Paola is right here to offer solutions to your most urgent questions. From diet suggestions and preventive care to troubleshooting widespread behavioral points, Dr. Paola is able to supply insights that can maintain your furry buddy comfortable and wholesome. Keep tuned for skilled steering on a spread of subjects that matter most to you and your canine, so you may make knowledgeable selections and supply the absolute best care to your canine companion. Have a question? Send it in here!
Assist! My Canine is Digging Her Butt!
“Pricey Dr. Paola,
My canine Tiana is continually digging at her butt and I’m undecided why. She doesn’t have fleas or worms. Somebody talked about she may have her anal glands cleaned, I’ve by no means heard of that earlier than although. What ought to I do?” – Taylor
Hello Taylor, If Tiana is continually digging at her rear that is indicating that one thing isn’t fairly proper. Because you’ve dominated out fleas and worms, one chance is certainly that her anal sacs would possibly want consideration.
Dogs have two small anal glands positioned on both aspect of the anus. These glands produce a smelly secretion that helps with marking territory and social communication. These are the very motive why dogs always sniff each other’s butt when meeting!
Usually, these glands empty naturally when your canine defecates. Nonetheless, in some circumstances; particularly with smaller breeds or canine with gentle stools, they don’t empty usually. When the gland’s secretion accumulates within the sacs it may possibly turn out to be impacted or infected, resulting in discomfort. Canine attempt to handle the discomfort by extreme licking or scooting. If left untreated, impacted glands can generally become painful infections or even dangerous abscesses.
Because of this it’s important you are taking her to the vet. They’ll study Tiana to substantiate whether or not her anal glands have to be expressed or if one other concern, corresponding to an allergy or pores and skin irritation, is inflicting her discomfort. Within the meantime, attempt to maintain her from excessively licking or scratching, as this will irritate the realm additional.
Finest needs,
Dr. Paola
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Assist! I Suppose I Am Allergic to My Canine!
“Pricey Dr. Paola,
I feel I’m allergic to my Havanese canine Chewy. My nostril runs, my eyes water and I itch throughout. My situation has gotten worse since she began her menstrual interval. Are you conscious of anybody else who has had this downside with their Havanese canine? Or is there something I can do?” – Jack
Hello Jack, your described allergy signs could possibly be associated to proteins in Chewy’s dander, saliva, or urine, that are widespread allergy triggers. Whereas there isn’t definitive analysis straight linking a dog’s heat cycle to elevated allergy symptoms, hormonal adjustments throughout this time might trigger slight will increase in pores and skin oil manufacturing. Extra importantly, canine usually groom themselves extra throughout their warmth cycle, which might unfold extra dander and allergens into the setting, probably worsening your signs.
To handle this, give attention to sustaining a clear residing area and seek the advice of your physician or an allergist to substantiate the trigger and focus on remedy choices. Allergic reactions will be irritating, however with the suitable method, you could possibly discover reduction whereas continuing to enjoy life with Chewy.
I Want Assist Registering My Canine!
“Good day Dr. Paola!
How do I register my canine? He’s 2.5 months outdated.” – Tony (Kingston’s Dad)
Hello Tony, congratulations in your new pet, Kingston!
In the event you’re referring to registering Kingston with a kennel club just like the American Kennel Membership (AKC) or an analogous group, you’ll usually want proof of his pedigree from the breeder. This often comes as registration papers supplied while you acquired him. Comply with the directions on these papers to register him below your identify, which is probably going potential by the group’s web site.
In the event you imply licensing him along with your native municipality, this is a vital authorized requirement in most areas. Licensing includes contacting your metropolis or county workplace or visiting their web site to study the appliance course of, as it may possibly differ by location. You’ll seemingly want proof of Kingston’s vaccinations, particularly rabies, which is usually given at round 16 weeks of age. Your native veterinarian can assist information you thru the necessities particular to your space. Wishing you all the very best in elevating Kingston!
Wishing you and Kingston all the very best!
Dr. Paola
This text is part of our weekly Ask Dr. Paola collection
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