Educational Articles
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Being environmentally responsible is healthier for the planet, for us, and for our pets. This handout outlines some easy ways that you and your pet can go green.
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An abscess usually appears suddenly as a painful swelling that may be firm to the touch or compressible like a water balloon. If the abscess is located inside the body (e.g., in the liver), fever is expected, and if the abscess has ruptured internally, there may also be bacteria in the bloodstream. Treatment depends on the location of the abscess and the severity of the infection.
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Acetaminophen (Tylenol, paracetamol, APAP, N-acetylparaminophenol) is used for pain in fever in humans, and may be recommended for dogs in low doses, but should only ever be given under the direction of a veterinarian. Young and small dogs have a higher risk for toxicity.
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Acupuncture is one aspect of Traditional Chinese Veterinary Medicine (TCVM) that focuses on restoring the energy balance in the body to promote healing. The technique requires the insertion of fine needles into the dog's body at specified points, called acupuncture points, where nerves and blood vessels converge. It is often used to treat dogs with arthritis and joint inflammation and may reduce the amount of medication a dog needs for these conditions. This handout explains how the treatment works and what to expect when your pet sees a veterinary acupuncturist.
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African greys are vulnerable to both calcium and/or vitamin A deficiencies, as well as obesity. Feeding a well-balanced diet and making sure your parrot consumes the proper proportions of foods offered will help prevent the development of these conditions. Pellets are the ideal food for your pet African grey and should represent approximately 75-80% of your bird's diet. The remainder of the diet should be comprised of fresh fruits, vegetables, and a small amount of seed (if any).
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African grey parrots are highly intelligent birds and are now commonly bred in captivity as pets. The African grey has a charming personality and is recognized as one of the best talkers among all pet parrots. It is important to keep these smart birds busy, as boredom can lead to problems, such as feather picking and screaming. African greys require regular, preventative veterinary health checkups.
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Amazons are vulnerable to calcium and vitamin A deficiencies, and when fed a predominantly seed-based diet, they are prone to obesity. Feeding a well-balanced diet in the proper proportions will help prevent the development of these conditions. This handout provides guidelines for providing your Amazon parrot with an optimal diet to thrive and flourish.
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Some commonly kept Amazon parrots include the double yellow-headed Amazon, yellow-naped Amazon, blue-fronted Amazon, green-cheeked Amazon, and orange-winged Amazon. They bond readily, often with one member of the family. This one-on-one bond occasionally may lead to aggression towards others. Amazons are generally very affectionate and often solicit petting and head scratches. Like all pets, Amazon parrots require regular, preventative veterinary health check-ups.
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Reptile pets benefit from yearly health examinations. Regular veterinary care, to prevent problems before they occur, is necessary to ensure your pet lives a long, healthy life. Intestinal parasites and/or underlying health problems may only be identified by your veterinarian during a yearly exam.
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Small exotic mammals are well known for hiding symptoms of illness until late in a disease course. Yearly health examinations are essential to uncover health issues before it is too late. Blood tests, radiographs and/or fecal tests may be recommended during an annual exam.