Winter Weight Gain: How to Keep Your Pet Fit During the Holidays

pup playing in snow.

As temperatures drop and winter sets in, it’s easy for both pets and their owners to become less active. Unfortunately for our pets, this can lead to weight gain that can, in turn, put your pet at risk of developing health issues. 

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Signs Your Pet May Be Going Blind

puppy looking up.

Our eyes are important for functioning and navigating the world. While it is possible to live a full life without vision, it is certainly ideal to protect this important sense when possible. Pet vision is no different, and protecting their eyes is important. Learn about eye care for pets from your friends at Clairmont Animal Hospital and how to identify if your pet’s vision is impaired.

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Swimming Safety: Tips for Introducing Your Pet to Water

pug on a paddleboard.

During the summer, there’s nothing like jumping into a crisp, cool body of water. If you want to include your pet in this summer fun, it’s important to do so safely. Introducing your pet to water could be the best way to beat the heat, and with our guide to swimming safety, you can both enjoy all the season has to offer. 

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Severe Weather And Thunderstorm Preparedness For Pets

A dog hiding under a blanket from a thunderstorm.

Hurricane and thunderstorm season is fast approaching here in Georgia, and the thunder, lightning, deluge, and potential for natural disaster can leave our pets particularly vulnerable. Your friends at Clairmont Animal Hospital would like to take this opportunity to discuss strategies for protecting and providing for your pet’s comfort and safety during severe weather.

Thunderstorm Preparedness For Pets

Many pets experience high levels of fear and stress during even slight thunderstorms. In some instances, very frightened pets may even try to escape the home. We recommend the following tips for thunderstorm preparedness for pets:

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For Their Own Good: Time to Focus on Pet Poison Prevention 

A dog looking longingly at chocolate.

At first glance, it might seem arbitrary that March is designated Pet Poison Prevention Month, but it’s actually the perfect time to raise awareness. We just finished one of the most chocolate-centric holidays of the year (thanks, Valentines, Day!), and we’re heading toward Easter. Not only that, but the spring season is just about to pop with seasonal color, along with plenty of opportunities for accidental pet poisonings. 

With a little bit of diligence, we can avoid pet toxins and work toward enjoying the season together!

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How to Cat Proof a Christmas Tree and Other Holiday Pet Decoration Tips

cat lying under Christmas tree.

When you have a kitty at home, the holiday season can bring more stress than joy. What if the cat tries to climb the tree? What if she breaks your great-grandma’s heirloom ornament, the one that was passed down to you when she passed away? What if your kitty rips open the gifts under the tree or knocks down your menorah or Kwanzaa candles?

Luckily for you, the team at Clairmont Animal Hospital has seen it all—and we’ve got tips to share with you! Read on to find out everything you need to know about making holiday decorations safe for pets. 

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Common Symptoms of Snake Bites in Pets

dog looking at snake.

Georgia is home to a rich ecosystem that includes 47 snake species. They rarely attack unprovoked, but snakes will certainly defend themselves if they feel threatened by people or pets. With population growth and encroaching development, encounters with snakes are increasing. Whether you witness a snake bite first hand or you notice common symptoms of snake bites in pets, it is important to take quick action.

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Summer Safety: Heatstroke in Pets

Dog drinking from water bottle.

Summer is a great time to enjoy the outdoors with family and friends. For many of us, that includes our four-legged buddies. The Georgia heat can sometimes put a damper on our fun, though, and it can become dangerous for our pets  if we are not careful.

Pets can suffer from heatstroke, and some fun in the sun can turn into a true emergency without proper precautions. Heatstroke prevention in pets is key to making sure that summer stays cool. 

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Protect Your Dog With the Leptospirosis Vaccination

beagle gets injection.

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. 

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The Do’s and Don’ts of Running With Your Dog

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. 

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