Posts in Category: For The Dogs

Of the most popular dog breeds in the Atlanta area, French Bulldogs and Bulldogs round out the top five. Perhaps it is their unique charm and inexplicable cute factor that endear them to owners and dog lovers alike, but this can often come at a cost. Indeed, the anatomy of these special brachycephalic breeds can cause problematic breathing, a matter made worse by the scorching temperatures of high summer.

Clairmont Animal Hospital understands the importance of protecting brachycephalic breeds from the heat, and hope we can all increase the safety and comfort of these unique pets.

If only pet allergies were relegated to a certain season (ahem, we’re looking at you, spring)… The truth is, however, they can affect any pet at any time throughout the year. Fall pet allergies are particularly irritating because there isn’t ever a break between pollinating autumnal weeds, such as ragweed, sagebrush, thistle, and cocklebur, that line thoroughfares and paths alike. But there is power in preparation – and when you know the source of the problem, treatment is more effective.

There are so many ways to promote pet wellness. In addition to the basics like a good diet, daily exercise, and enrichment opportunities, disease prevention is at the heart of responsible pet ownership. It’s always a good idea to assess a dog’s risk of various contagions, and make appropriate lifestyle choices accordingly. The leptospirosis vaccination is among the many ways that dog owners can protect canine health and enhance overall safety. 

Running is a great activity for humans and dogs alike. Our four-legged friends make the best running partners; dogs want to be with us, they have boundless energy, and it’s hard to skip a workout with those puppy dog eyes waiting expectantly at the door. 

There are plenty of “do’s” for running with your dog, and a few don’ts as well. Come along with Clairmont Animal Hospital as we check out the basics of a running program with your best fur pal. 

The Do’s Of Running With Your Dog

When it comes to running with your dog, we recommend starting with a check-up. Just as with people, you want to have a clean bill of health before starting any new exercise program. 

It’s cold and flu season for people, and pets are no different. Did you know that canine influenza is an illness that could affect your pupper this winter? Clairmont Animal Hospital has the info that you need to know about the dog flu and how to protect your pup. 

All About Canine Influenza

Canine influenza is a very contagious viral respiratory disease that affects dogs specifically. Thankfully, humans and dogs don’t share this virus!

We first experienced dog flu in the United States in 2004. Since then, there have been several outbreaks across the country. We are currently aware of two different strains of canine influenza. 

Anyone with a special pup in their life knows that our canine companions are all heart. This can make it even more devastating, though, when heart disease in dogs affects your family. Clairmont Animal Hospital is here to help you, though, when it comes to understanding the causes, symptoms, and treatment of heart disease in dogs. 

Have you been spending too much time on the couch? Has your dog been giving you the stink eye every time you pass by the leash? It might be time to dust off those running or hiking shoes. There’s nothing quite like outdoor walks with your dog to get you motivated.

The team at Clairmont Animal Hospital has compiled a few pointers to keep your pet safe, as well as some local suggestions for good fun and exercise.

Safety First: Going on Walks with Your Dog

Before you grab the leash and head outside, make sure you brush up on summer pet safety tips. Be a dog walking pro with the following suggestions:

Dogs are fully equipped with many incredible skills and adaptations that keep domestic life fun and interesting. Despite this, they are lacking in one important area. Their individual cooling systems are woefully ineffective when battling high heat and exertion. In contrast with their human owners and other mammalian species, dogs don’t perspire as a function of numerous glands throughout the body. Instead, dogs sweat primarily through their paw pads. Fortunately, this isn’t the only mechanism they can rely on to cool down.

Food is a phenomenal tool when housetraining and teaching obedience commands. The offer of a treat after a display of good behavior helps to reinforce it. Also, punishment or scolding is replaced by ignoring unwanted behavior, ultimately teaching dogs that bad behavior has no benefit.  

Originally introduced to marine mammals with a whistle, the idea of using sound to link good behavior has proven highly effective over several decades. If you’ve ever wondered if clicker training your dog would be effective, we’ve got some tips to get started.

The relationship between people and pets appears to be mutually beneficial, but if we had to guess, we get way more than we give. Responsible pet owners provide food, housing, medical care, protection, enrichment, and affection. But what we receive in return seems to far outweigh our own contributions. Pets give their time, adoration, and loyalty without conditions, which improves our lives and increases longevity. In other words, the human-animal bond impacts our health and makes us happier.