Ask Dr. Drool-ittle: Why Do Dogs Slobber?

Dog slobber.

It may be a little like asking why is the sky blue, but it’s perfectly natural to wonder why dogs slobber all over the place. Sure, some breeds are less likely to visibly salivate, whereas others seem to be characterized by a high drool factor. What causes thick, ropy streams of spit to dangle from certain canine lips? And, perhaps more importantly, what can owners do about slobbering?

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An Explanation of Clairmont Animal Hospital’s Increased Wait Times

Dog in hospital with veterinarian.

At Clairmont Animal Hospital, one of our top priorities is to give you a pleasant experience any time you visit our facilities. We know there have recently been increased wait times for phone calls and appointments, and we want to give you an inside look into our new reality to help you understand what’s been happening. Covid-19 has changed all our lives, and it has also impacted the way we see patients.

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How to Identify External Parasites on Your Pet

Decatur, GA dog itching fleas.

You’re grooming your pet and you feel a lump. You run your hand through the fur until you locate the lump, part the hair, and gasp! It’s a tick! You know it’s a tick because the mouth is stuck in your pet’s skin. Ticks and other parasites can harm your pet and cause some unexpected health issues. At Clairmont Animal Hospital, we want to help you keep your household animals healthy by learning to identify parasites that may be thriving on your animals:

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A Real Issue: Counterfeit Drugs and the Online Pharmacy for Pet Medications

A dog sits with his owner who shops on an online pharmacy.

Here in the twenty-first century, we are all about having things at our fingertips. With just a click of a button, we can schedule a doctor’s visit, have our groceries delivered, or start our robot vacuum from miles away. The appeal of being able to order our pet wellness products and medications online for direct delivery is strong.

Clairmont Animal Hospital knows how convenient this is, but we also see some pitfalls and even dangers in the online pharmacy option. We want to be sure that our clients know how to keep their pets safe when using this option and avoid dangerous consequences like counterfeit drugs.

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While Not Perilous, a Reverse Sneeze Attack Can Sound Pretty Scary

A dog in mid-sneeze.

If you have never heard a reverse sneeze, you might be alarmingly triggered by its signature sounds. Generally speaking, a dog that suddenly begins to honk, wheeze, and snort might require emergency veterinary help. However, a reverse sneeze isn’t usually a cause for concern. Sure, it’s weird and uncharacteristic for many animals, but this mechanism is employed for specific reasons. What’s more, if you know what it is, you can help your dog regulate their breathing and interrupt this strange breathing.

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What You Need To Know About Zoonotic Diseases

A woman gives her dog a kiss.

At this time last year, most people had probably never heard of a “zoonotic disease,” which is one that can be passed from an animal to a human. After losing twelve months and counting to the global pandemic, however, we are all thinking differently about disease prevention and what we can do to keep our families safe.

The team at Clairmont Animal Hospital is here to help you keep your pets happy and healthy and to make it easier to avoid issues with zoonotic diseases that could potentially infect your family.

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Reading Between the Lines: Deciphering When Your Cat Is Sick

Whether they’re suffering from an illness or injury, cats instinctively hide symptoms. Hardwired to appear strong and stealthy at all times, cats know they may be easily targeted by predators if seen as weak. 

Of course, indoor-only cats may not experience a specific risk from predators, but they’ll still hide under the bed or in the darkest corners of the closet when they’re not at their best. When cat owners are carefully tuned into the signs that their cat is sick, they not only ensure immediate help but may also prevent long-term complications.

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Paw Diseases in Pets

The pitter patter of tiny feet is often a much loved sound that reminds us of how much we cherish those we share our home with. Our pets’ paws are important, and as their caretakers it is important that we care for and pay attention to them. 

Whether most animal lovers realize it or not, there are several paw diseases in pets that can affect our friend’s comfort and function. At Clairmont Animal Hospital we are happy to be able to help you to look out for your pet, paws and otherwise.

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Spotting and Treating Allergies in Pets

If you suffer from seasonal allergies, you know all too well the misery that accompanies the arrival of spring (or summer, or fall, as the case may be). Allergies affect our furry friends as well and, although the symptoms look different they aren’t any less uncomfortable. Allergies in pets can also lead to negative health consequences if they aren’t treated promptly.

Clairmont Animal Hospital wants to make sure you would know how to tell if your pet has allergies, and what you can do to help them.

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