Vet Buzz

Welcome to the award winning Vet Buzz, DogTrekker.com’s pet health blog with the latest in veterinary medicine, valuable tips and seasonal guidelines to keep your dog safe and healthy at home and on the road. Whether it is caring for an elderly dog, holistic approaches to health care, toxic algae blooms or tick and rattlesnake warnings, our Vet Buzz contributors have you covered.

Mushroom toxicity

By Chris Pitts, RVT, of Broadway Animal Hospital. The first rains of the season can bring with them the first mushrooms of the season as well. Many a dog has been known to nibble on mushrooms as they pop out of your lawn or out of grasses on your favorite trail. The problem is, many kinds of mushrooms are toxic to your dog. Read more.

What’s that in your dog’s eye

Photo by Marek Piwnicki.

You took your dog out for a fabulous hike and now he is squinting at you with one eye. He probably has something in his eye. Read more.

Dog paddle safety

A golden retriever, adorned in a snug-fitting water flotation vest, sits confidently on a paddleboard amidst the calm waters. The determined expression in its eyes, locked on the camera’s lens, showcases it's ready for an exciting adventure. This picturesque scene seems perfect for pet-owners searching for unique and enjoyable activities to engage their adorable canine companions. - Dogtrekker

Most dogs love swimming and splashing. Labs and other retrievers seem born with an instinct to seek out places to get wet. But other dogs don't like water at all, may not have learned to swim and may not be comfortable on boats. Read more.

Skunk stuff

Skunk and baby skunk on lawn with apples

Pepe Le Pew is on the prowl. Yep, February through March is skunk mating season, and many of us in Northern California have been detecting The Striped Ones’ signature aroma on our morning walks or weekend hikes. Skunks can be found almost everywhere—including your back yard—and are highly active and excitable at this time of … Continued Read more.