Vet buzz Blog
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.
Leptospirosis in California dogs: a Bay Area owner’s guide
Leptospirosis is now a core canine vaccine, and Northern California — especially the Bay Area, North Coast, and Sierra foothills — is one of the higher-risk pockets in the country. What the latest peer-reviewed research says about the disease, the…
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Toxic algae in California waters: Dog owner’s guide
Toxic algae blooms in California lakes and rivers can kill a dog within minutes to hours, and there is no antidote. The state-by-state hot-spot list, the three toxin classes, and the live HAB Reports Map every California dog owner should…
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Heatstroke and hot pavement: California dog summer safety
Heatstroke kills 50–64% of affected dogs, and 3 out of 4 cases are caused by exercise — not hot weather alone. Here's what California dog owners need to know about hot pavement, warning signs, emergency cooling, and the state law…
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Can dogs get poison oak? A vet tech’s guide
Dogs rarely get poison oak thanks to their protective fur, but they can easily transfer the irritating oil to their owners. If your dog brushes through poison oak on a hike, wash them promptly with Dawn dish soap.
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Spring safety tips for dog owners
Spring brings ticks, heartworms, foxtails, and other hazards for dogs heading outdoors. Stay ahead of seasonal risks with tick preventatives, regular checkups, and smart trail habits to keep your pup healthy all season.
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Watch your puppies around those poppies
California poppies are beautiful on spring hillsides, but they are toxic to dogs if eaten in large quantities. Symptoms can include vomiting, lethargy, and difficulty breathing. Keep your pup leashed near blooming areas and contact your vet if you suspect…
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Five most dangerous plants in your yard
Many popular California landscape plants can seriously harm dogs if chewed or swallowed. Sago palms, oleander, and other common ornamentals pose risks ranging from stomach upset to liver failure. Here are five of the most dangerous plants to keep out…
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Here are some tips for bathing your dog
How often should you bathe your dog, and what products work best? Most dogs need a bath every four to six weeks using a gentle, dog-specific shampoo. Here are practical tips for long-haired breeds, water-shy pups, and choosing the right…
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California’s best dog-friendly sports bars
Catch the big game with your dog at these 10 California sports bars, from Riddick's in Redding to spots in Big Bear, Fort Bragg and South Lake Tahoe. Few things are better than catching the big game with good friends…
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Welcome to spring – and the 2024 event season!
Spring kicks off a packed calendar of dog-friendly events across California, from the Sacramento SPCA Doggy Dash and SF Giants Dog Days at Oracle Park to adoption fundraisers, costume contests, and brewery tasting tours. Here are our top picks through…
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Five critical things to know about dogs and wildfires
California wildfire season poses serious risks to dogs, from poor air quality to emergency evacuations. Here are five critical steps to protect your pup, including limiting outdoor time, creating safe indoor spaces and preparing a go-bag. Let's talk about dogs…
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Dog-friendly Lake Tahoe beaches: Your ultimate summer guide
From Carnelian Bay coffee shops to secluded coves on the Nevada side, here is your guide to the best dog-friendly beaches at Lake Tahoe. Both shores offer sandy spots where your pup can splash all summer long.
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Dog paddle safety
Not every dog is a natural swimmer, and introducing a nervous pup to water should be slow and positive. Start in shallow areas, use treats and favorite toys, and invest in a flotation vest for safety.
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Tips for visiting the desert with your dog
Desert travel with dogs requires extra preparation. Keep your pup hydrated, watch for cactus thorns and hot pavement, never leave them in a parked car, and seek out BLM lands where trail restrictions are minimal.
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Family dog rescue
Family Dog Rescue in San Francisco saves dogs of all sizes, breeds and backgrounds, carefully matching each one with the right forever family. They also run spay and neuter clinics in the Central Valley to reduce homeless populations.
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Not all chocolate is created equal
Not all chocolate is equally dangerous for dogs. White chocolate poses minimal risk, while just one ounce of baking chocolate can sicken a 50-pound dog. A veterinarian explains the symptoms and what to do if your pup sneaks a bite.
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Vet buzz: Nail trimming tips
Overgrown nails can cause infections, painful tears and even arthritic changes in your dog's toes. A veterinarian explains how to pick the right trimmers, identify the quick on light and dark nails and build a regular trimming routine at home.
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Impact: San Francisco County
The proposed GGNRA dog rule would ban dogs from most of Ocean Beach, much of Fort Funston, and all of East Beach at Crissy Field. The Park Service budgeted .6 million to enforce the restrictions.
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Marijuana toxicity and your dog
With marijuana use on the rise, canine toxicity cases are becoming more common and more severe. A veterinarian explains the symptoms, from staggering and urine dribbling to dangerous reactions from edibles, and why quick treatment matters for your dog.
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Recognizing and treating pain in our pets
Dogs instinctively hide their pain, so watch for subtle changes like withdrawal, reluctance to be petted or excessive licking. Dr. Angela Gaeto explains how vets diagnose discomfort and treat it with medications, supplements and acupuncture.
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Preparing your dog for a new baby
Expecting a baby? Start preparing your dog now. A veterinary behaviorist from the San Francisco SPCA shares tips on establishing new routines, setting boundaries with baby gates and helping your pup adjust calmly before and after the baby arrives.
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What to do when your dog gets skunked
When your dog gets sprayed by a skunk, act fast. Mix one quart of hydrogen peroxide with a quarter cup of baking soda and a tablespoon of Dawn dish soap. Saturate your dog, wait ten minutes, and rinse.
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Canine cancer: Diagnosis, treatment and holistic options
A veterinary oncologist explains how cancer develops in dogs, from diagnosis through surgery, chemotherapy and holistic options like acupuncture and herbal supplements. Integrating conventional and complementary treatments often produces the best outcomes for pets.
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Torn nails and your dog
A broken nail can cause your dog significant pain and bleeding during outdoor play. Keep nails trimmed short to prevent breaks, and if one occurs, apply a clean sock to contain bleeding on the way to the vet.
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