Tag: dogs

Calming Pets During Holiday Gatherings

Posted on by Maddie Cushing
Crisco, a large dog with fluffy red reindeer antlers on his head, smiles in the blog header for calming pets during holiday gatherings.

The holidays offer a joyous time for us to get together and celebrate the year with our family and friends. However, these holiday gatherings may not feel quite so festive for our animal companions. Here are some tips and tricks for calming pets during holiday festivities!

Lula, a dilute calico cat, poses in front of some holiday baubles and tinsel.

Look for Signs of Stress

You know your pet best, so it’s key to keep an eye out for signs that they may be stressed out. Common signs of distress that you may notice in cats or dogs include, but are not limited to…

  • Panting
  • Vocalizing or Whining
  • Tense Posture
  • Dilated Pupils
  • Tucked Tail or Flattened Ears
  • Hiding
  • Destructive Behavior

Create a Safe Space

Set up a quiet and calm room where pets can retreat away from the chaos of holiday events. Be sure to provide comfort items, such as favorite toys or blankets, and plenty of fresh water. It may also be a good idea to turn on some calming music to distract from any party noise. Remember to check in regularly with your pets during events.

Calm Pets by Providing Enrichment Opportunities

Licking and sniffing can be calming activities for both cats and dogs. Providing enrichment such as licky mats or puzzle toys may help keep pets calm. Additionally, supplying a favorite treat or long-lasting chews may also help to calm pets.

Boo, a blue heeler with her tongue out, poses in front of a red backdrop.

Utilize Calming Tools

Products such as pheromone diffusers or sprays, calming vests, and anti-anxiety treats can be helpful for some pets. It is a good idea to test these products out before the day of your event to discover what works and what doesn’t for your pet.

Consult your Veterinarian about Calming Pets

Your veterinarian may be able to recommend solutions for pets with more severe anxiety. In some cases, medication can be prescribed to help with nerves. Be sure to follow your veterinarian’s directions if your pet is prescribed a medication. Do not share the medication with other pets or exceed the prescribed dosage.

Prepare Early in the Day

Make time the morning before your holiday event to ready your pet for the day ahead. Set aside at least 30 minutes for exercise and an additional 10-15 minutes for enrichment. If you are utilizing a medication, be sure to give it to your pet at least two hours prior to the event unless otherwise directed by your veterinarian. Get your pet set up in their safe space before guests arrive.

For additional holiday information, check out our press release regarding holiday safety tips! We wish everyone a very happy and safe holiday season!

RHDV-2 & Leptospirosis Vaccines Available

Posted on by Shae

RHDV-2 Vaccine for Rabbits & Leptospirosis Vaccine for Dogs Available

Our affordable pet clinics in Murray, Utah and St. George, Utah are offering Leptospirosis vaccines to the public. Our Murray clinic is also offering RHDV-2 Vaccines to pet rabbits.

Dog kissing a lady

Leptospirosis has been associated with water sports in contaminated lakes and rivers, especially in tropical or temperate climates, so it can be a hazard for those who travel and do a lot of outdoor activities with their dogs.

LEPTOSPIROSIS

Leptospirosis is a disease caused by infection with Leptospira bacteria. Dogs can become infected and develop leptospirosis if they come into contact with infected urine, urine-contaminated soil, water, food or bedding; through a bite from an infected animal; by eating infected tissues or carcasses; and rarely, through breeding. It can also be passed through the placenta from the mother dog to the puppies. Leptospirosis is a zoonotic disease, which means it can be spread from animals to people. Infection in people can cause flu-like symptoms and can cause liver or kidney disease. Leptospirosis is more common in areas with warm climates and high annual rainfall but it can occur anywhere.

  • The vaccination requires a booster 3-4 weeks later. After the booster is given, the vaccination is effective for one year.
  • Customers do not need to schedule an appointment for vaccinations at our Murray Clinic. Appointments are recommended at our St. George clinic to make sure you have a short wait, but they accept walk-ins.
  • Dogs must be at least 8 weeks old to receive the vaccination.

The Rabbit Hemorrhagic Disease Vaccine is now available at our Murray, Utah clinic by appointment

rabbit

RHDV-2 in domestic rabbits has recently been documented in Salt Lake and Washington County.

RHDV-2

Rabbit hemorrhagic disease is a highly contagious, fatal disease in rabbits and is currently classified as a reportable, foreign animal disease in the United States. It has been spreading to multiple states across the Southwest since 2020. The vaccine should be fully protective 14 days after the second vaccine booster, which should be given 3 weeks after the first dose.

  • It requires an appointment in the Murray clinic. Customers can call 801-261-2919 ext 230 to schedule and need to make sure to mention upfront that they are scheduling for a rabbit (since we don’t take appointments for other pet vaccinations). Appointments will allow us to provide a lower-stress environment for rabbits.
  • Rabbits must be at least 8 weeks old to receive the vaccination.
  • The vaccination costs $40 and the USDA requires that the bunny is microchipped to receive the vaccine. We can provide the microchip implant for an additional $35. Your rabbit will need a booster (or second dose) three weeks later, which costs an additional $40.

If you have any questions about the preventative health services provided by our Affordable Clinics in Murray or St. George, please visit Clinic Locations to learn more.