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.
What’s that in your dog’s eye
After a hike, a squinting dog likely has something stuck in its eye. Foxtails, thorns, and grass can lodge behind the third eyelid and scratch the cornea. A quick vet visit is far cheaper than risking surgery.
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What to pack for your pup
Packing for a camping trip with your dog means thinking beyond the basics. Cable tie-outs keep your pup safe at the campsite, a portable kennel prevents nighttime wandering and a first-aid kit handles away-from-home emergencies.
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On being a good hotel guest
Staying at a hotel with your dog is a privilege worth protecting. Always clean up immediately, keep your pup off the furniture, bring familiar food, and thank the management for their pet-friendly policies.
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What’s that puddle?
Urinary incontinence is common in middle-aged spayed female dogs and can progress from a few drops to large puddles. While Western medications help, acupuncture and Chinese herbal medicine offer effective alternatives without the side effects.
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Winterize your dog
Cold weather calls for extra preparation when adventuring with your dog. Protect paws with balm or booties, wipe feet after outings to remove toxic de-icers, carry water for both of you, and add extra calories after winter play.
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Pet insurance: Where do you draw the line?
A single hiking mishap can mean thousands in vet bills, raising the question of whether pet insurance is worth it. Weigh traditional policies against alternatives like Pawp, Pet Assure, and dedicated savings accounts.
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Warning: Black walnuts can be toxic to dogs
Black walnut trees are common in California, and the mold that grows on fallen walnuts can cause deadly seizures in dogs. Keep your dog away from walnut debris and call your vet immediately if any is ingested.
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Benefits of physical rehabilitation for your dog
Physical rehabilitation therapies for dogs have come a long way, from underwater treadmills and therapeutic lasers to acupuncture and massage. A veterinarian explains how these treatments help injured, post-surgical and aging dogs.
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When your dog vomits
A veterinarian explains when dog vomiting is a wait-and-see situation and when it requires an emergency vet visit. Key warning signs include blood in vomit, visible discomfort and repeated attempts to throw up.
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Much ado about mushrooms
Wild mushrooms popping up in spring can be toxic to curious dogs, causing symptoms from vomiting and seizures to liver failure. If your dog eats one, get to a vet immediately and bring a damp sample.
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Winterizing your dog
Before heading to snow country with your dog, take a few precautions. Wipe paws after outings to remove toxic de-icers, consider a waterproof coat for short-haired breeds and protect paw pads from ice and grit.
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Spaying or neutering your dog
A veterinarian explains the behavioral and health benefits of spaying or neutering your dog, from reducing the urge to roam and fight to preventing certain cancers. The procedure also lowers licensing fees in most California counties.
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Toxic blue-green algae blooms
Blue-green algae in freshwater lakes and streams pose a serious, potentially fatal threat to dogs during late summer. These toxic blooms can cause seizures, liver failure, and death within hours. When water looks or smells suspicious, keep your dog out.
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Acupuncture for dogs
Acupuncture can help dogs manage pain from arthritis, soft tissue injuries and other chronic conditions, especially when traditional medications fall short. Dr. Angela Gaeto of Helen Woodward Animal Center explains how this ancient practice works for your pup.
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Swimming with fido
Swimming is great exercise for dogs, but it can lead to ear infections, hot spots, and swimmer's tail. A vet explains how to prevent these issues with drying ear cleaners, towel drying, and gradual increases in water time.
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Rattlesnake 101 for you and your dog
Rattlesnakes are California's only native venomous snake, and encounters peak in spring and summer. A veterinarian covers prevention tips, bite symptoms to watch for and what to do if your dog is struck while out on the trail.
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Acupuncture for disc disease in dogs
Disc disease affects dogs of all sizes, from dachshunds to older large breeds, causing pain, weakness, or even paralysis. Studies show that electro-acupuncture can effectively reduce inflammation and restore function, offering a solid alternative to surgery.
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Home Society Silicon Valley
Cheechoo, an 8-year-old pit bull mix at Humane Society Silicon Valley, overcame a tough flea allergy and graduated from obedience training with flying colors. This belly-rub-loving gentleman with excellent leash manners is ready for his forever home.
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Dog sitting vs. boarding
When you can't bring your dog along on a trip, choosing between boarding and a dog sitter depends on your pup's personality. A veterinarian weighs the pros and cons and offers tips for keeping your dog comfortable.
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Treating your dog’s osteoarthritis
Osteoarthritis affects dogs of all breeds, ages, and sizes. A veterinarian explains treatment options including joint injections with Platelet Rich Plasma, Hyaluronic Acid, and corticosteroids, along with therapies like hydrotherapy, acupuncture, and weight management.
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Lumps and bumps on your pet
Finding a lump on your dog can be worrying. A veterinarian explains the common types, from harmless warts and cysts to more concerning growths, and offers guidance on when a bump needs prompt attention versus routine monitoring.
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Muttville’s 10 tips for traveling with senior dogs
The team at Muttville Senior Dog Rescue shares 10 practical tips for traveling with older dogs, covering what to pack, how to keep them comfortable on the road and ways to help them enjoy the destination.
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Mobility assistance for your senior dog
A veterinarian shares practical tips for helping dogs with mobility challenges, from yoga-mat pathways on slick floors and toe grips for traction to supportive harnesses and ramp training for getting in and out of vehicles.
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Napa Humane 2017
Napa Humane supports local pets through low-cost spay and neuter clinics, vaccination services and humane education for kids. Their annual Pawsport Napa Valley event pairs dog-friendly wine tasting with fundraising for animal welfare programs.
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