WHAT KIND OF DOG DO YOU HAVE?

Have you ever looked at your dog's coat and wondered if she has some Golden Retriever in her background? Does the way your family pet tries to herd the kids make you suspect he's part Border Collie? By analyzing your dog's DNA to detect breeds in its genetic makeup, Wisdom Panel MX may deepen your insights and improve your understanding of your pet. Wisdom Panel MX bring the benefits of advanced science to mixed breed dog owners everywhere.

WHY SHOULD YOU KNOW?

Wanting to know your dog's breed mix is much more than a matter of curiosity. The combination of breeds that make up a dog may affect its appearance, behavior, and well-being in many ways.

The important genetic information provided by Wisdom Panel MX can help you work with your veterinarian to develop a customized care plan specifically tailored to your dog's individual needs.

Email or Give the office a call today, and we would be happy to give you more information on this test.

 
  Summer heat increases everyone's risk of heat-related maladies,as well as several other new problems that arrive in conjunction with long, warm summer days. Your pets need you to safeguard them against these pitfalls so that they can enjoythe summer weather as much as you do.

Your outdoor pets need extra protection. Be sure to keep plenty of fresh water available for pets at all times and make sure that animals have access to shade from the sun. Check pens, yards and other areas the pet might inhabit for dangerous inhabitants such as snakes, stinging insects, etc. (Be sure to call a professional for removal of pests for your own safety). Summer weather is synonymous with thunderstorms, which can throw ahil, tree branches and other harmful debris at your pet. In the event of severe weather, be sure to bring your pet inside or provide a safe, sturdy shelter for your pet to stay in during storms. Indoor pets need for you to monitor indoor temperatures as well. If you do not have air-conditioning and must leave your pet inside, be sure to open windows where possible. Leave extra water for pets left alone at home and if it is safe to leave a fan on for your pet, do so.

Keep long-haired pets well brushed out. Coats filled with undercoating and mats hold the heat in so that your pet cannot cool properly. Shaving your pet can help to decrease the amount of grooming necessary to keep your pet comfortable, but be sure to talk to your vet before shaving your dog or cat to avoid dangerous grooming accidents or to find a a professional groomer. Remember that light-colored animals tend to sunburn, expecially when shaved and be sure to provide all pets with adequate shelter from the sun at all times.

With summer also comes the various pests common to pets. Fleas and ticks are more prevalent than ever and are responsible for many diseases ranging from the mild (such as allergic dermatitis from fleas) to the most severe (like tick paralysis and other tick-borne diseases). These pests can be prevented easily with a topical preventative from your vet. Heartworms are also common and are transmitted by mosquitoes more rapidly than any other time of the year. Year-round heartworm prevention is necessary to protect your pet against these pests. Talk to your vet about the various ways you can controll the population of unwanted guests.

Never leave a pet in your car during hot summer days for more than 2-3 minutes at a time. Even with a window cracked, cars can reach temperatures high enough to back cookies within minutes. If possible, have a passenger wait with your pet or leave your pet at home when running errands.

When walking or hiking with your pet, be sure to keep an eye on your pet's energy level and always bring water with you for your pet to drink. If your pet appears fatigued or if your pet is panting and drooling excessively, take a few moments to rest and offer water. Summer sun can also make pavement very hot, burning the bottoms of your pet's feet. If possible, allow your pet to walk in grass or on gravel to avoid the heat.

Contact your veterinarian for more ideas on how to keep your pet safe and happy during the summer months and HAVE A WONDERFUL SUMMER!