Preparing your dog for a new baby

By Jeannine Berger, DVM, DACVB, San Francisco SPCA A new baby in your home is an exciting, yet challenging time for everyone, including your dog. The time to prepare your pet for the arrival of your new little one is as soon as you know you are expecting. If your dog has several months to learn the new rules and routines, the chances for a peaceful transition are better. Read more.

Recognizing and treating pain in our pets

By Dr. Angela Gaeto, DVM, of the Helen Woodward Animal Center community in San Diego County. Recognizing pain Pain can be a difficult thing to recognize in our pets. Most owners will notice a limp, scratch, or yelp from their pet but slow onset and chronic pain can be difficult to determine in pets of any age. Dogs try and hide their pain instinctually. Since animals can’t talk we have to use their subtle body language to hear their concerns. Read more.

East bay hikes for fresh-air fiends

Bright Red Golden Retriever Dog by the River

Don’t come to Oakland or the Tri-Valley without your hiking shoes! You’ll need them, along with a leash, to explore open-space preserves. Read more.

Yosemite’s watery icon

California’s best-known cataract is 2,425-foot Yosemite Falls, a voice-drowning, three-stage gusher that roars like a highway during the snow-melt season. Read more.

National pet dental health month

Proud dog showing off his pearly whites. Photo Credit: Stephanie (CC) By Dr. Angela Gaeto, DVM, of the Helen Woodward Animal Center community in San Diego County. Dental cleaning is the deep teeth cleaning provided to dogs to maintain good oral hygiene. Veterinary dental cleaning involves general anesthesia. This is often an owner's number-one concern. The level of anesthetic risk that pertains to your pet should be considered and discussed with your veterinarian. General anesthesia is necessary for a quality dental exam and cleaning because it is in the best interest of your dog. Read more.