What Causes Eye Injuries in Dogs? A dog eye injury can occur for a number of reasons, including: Fights: If your pet gets into a squabble with another, it may result in an eye injury. Foreign Objects: Dust, dirt, or small debris can easily make their way into your dog’s eyes. Aging: As dogs age, they are more likely to develop cataracts or dry eye. Underlying Health Conditions: Certain health issues can increase the risk of eye injuries. Accidents: Mishaps can happen. Even something as simple as playing rough can cause eye injuries.
Keeping your cat’s litter box clean is essential for maintaining its long-term health. Even after meticulously scooping the urine clumps, replacing the litter once a week, and scrubbing every inch of the litter box every couple of weeks, your cat may still experience urinary issues. Urinary obstruction in cats is one of the more serious ailments affecting the urethra and requires urgent medical attention. What is Urinary Obstruction? Urinary obstruction in cats describes situations involving a partial or full blockage of the urethra, which is the tube that carries urine from the bladder to the cat’s external opening. You might hear your veterinarian call it a urethral blockage or urethral obstruction, and it’s one of the most common reasons for cats to see their vets. A urinary obstruction may be referred to as FLUTD, or feline lower urinary tract disease. You may also hear the term FIC, short for feline interstitial cystitis, which refers to inflammation of the bladder. Urinary obstructions are most common in young castrated male cats, but can occur in older pets and intact males as well. FIC is also much more common in cats younger than 10. Risks of Urinary Obstructions Urinating is a vital function for almost all creatures, as it eliminates waste and maintains appropriate levels of bodily fluids. Retaining urine can result in: Bladder tear (rupture) due to increased pressure Renal (kidney) damage or failure Heart problems due to electrolyte imbalances What Causes Urinary Obstructions in Cats? The inflammation that occurs with FIC is a common cause of urinary obstructions in cats. Two other ailments commonly associated with urinary obstructions are uroliths (bladder stones that can travel to the urethra) and urethral plugs, which consist of bodily crystals and mucus. Cancer is a rare cause of urinary obstructions. Preventing Urinary Obstruction Maintaining your cat’s general health, which involves regular vet check-ups, can reduce the chances of urinary obstructions. Ensuring your felines have access to enough water and food is also essential, as is helping them stay at healthy weights. Male cats are prone to urinary obstructions and other FLUTDs because their urethra is narrower and longer than those of female cats. Some cats who experience frequent urinary obstructions may benefit from a procedure called a perineal urethrostomy (PU), which widens the urethral opening. Treating Urinary Obstruction: When to See an Emergency Vet It’s a good idea to take your cat to a vet as soon as possible if you notice signs of urinary obstruction, as serious health problems can crop up within 12 hours or less. Untreated urinary obstructions can cause death in cats within 24 hours, so time is of the essence. Common symptoms of urinary obstructions in cats include: Frequent urination (more than four times per day) Weak urinary flow Urinating only a few drops at a time (or nothing at all) Bloody or cloudy urine Vocalizing or crying out while urinating Straining while urinating Urinating outside of the litter box Vomiting Diarrhea Lethargy Decreased appetite Excessive licking of their genitals If you suspect your cat is exhibiting these symptoms but aren’t sure, we strongly recommend erring on the side of caution and bringing them to a vet as soon as possible. Depending on the location of the litter box, it may be difficult to tell whether your cat is having trouble peeing or not urinating at all. Your vet may insert a catheter to drain the backed-up urine, and your cat may need to take medications for a few days.
It’s a sad fact of life for pet owners that one of our favorite treats can be deadly for our dogs. So, what if your dog ate chocolate but is acting fine? The potential health complications depend on the amount and type of cocoa they eat, and there are a number of symptoms that can alert you to serious problems. If your dog ate chocolate chip cookies or counter-surfed their way into a cup of hot cocoa, here’s what you need to know about chocolate toxicity and when it’s time to call the vet. Understanding Chocolate Toxicity in Dogs So, what is in chocolate that is toxic to dogs? To understand dog chocolate toxicity, we have to look at a key ingredient: cocoa beans. Many animals, including cats and dogs, can experience chocolate toxicosis if they ingest cocoa products. Cocoa contains compounds known as methylxanthines, specifically theobromine and caffeine. While humans can consume (and enjoy) these chemicals, dogs can’t metabolize them properly. Dogs are more sensitive to caffeine in all forms. A single discarded tea bag or a mouthful of spilled coffee grounds can spell disaster for your furry friend. And while we may not think about the caffeine content of our sweet treats, an average ounce of dark chocolate contains about 23 mg of caffeine. Is white chocolate toxic for dogs? It’s less likely, but it all depends on how much they eat. While white chocolate contains less cocoa than milk or dark chocolate, the high fat and sugar content can lead to other problems. Aside from an upset stomach, the sudden ingestion of high-fat foods can trigger pancreatitis in dogs. 6 Signs Your Dog Ate Chocolate Theobromine and caffeine affect the central nervous system and heart. In mild cases, this means gastrointestinal distress and dehydration. At higher doses, dogs can experience seizures, cardiac failure, and even death. If you suspect your dog may have gotten ahold of some chocolate, here are some common initial symptoms to look out for: Vomiting and diarrhea Excessive thirst and urination Restlessness Increased body temperature Rapid heart rate and breathing Muscle tremors My dog ate chocolate but is acting fine: should I be worried? There’s a saying when it comes to toxins: the dose makes the poison. The severity of your dog’s reaction depends on their size and how much chocolate they consumed. Dark chocolate and baking cocoa are higher in theobromine and caffeine, while milk and white chocolate have less. When dogs eat chocolate, the physical signs aren’t immediately apparent. Depending on how much they ate, symptoms can begin to show between 6-12 hours after ingestion. If you know or suspect your dog ate chocolate, immediately call your vet for advice. Monitor your pet closely for symptoms and take note of any unusual behavior. What to Do if Your Dog Ate Chocolate & When to See an Emergency Vet As with any serious health risk, it’s best to play it safe and contact your vet if your dog ate chocolate, even if they are acting fine. Even if they aren’t in immediate danger, early intervention is crucial for preventing long-term health consequences, which can include kidney failure and heart disease. Following a potential chocolate-eating incident, keep a close eye on your dog and contact an emergency vet right away if you notice any of the symptoms listed above. Only a professional can treat chocolate toxicity in dogs, so it’s vital to get help as soon as possible. Your vet can provide the best course of action for your dog’s specific situation. To help your dog, a vet may induce vomiting, administer IV fluids to combat dehydration, and give them activated charcoal to prevent further absorption of toxic compounds.
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An emergency vet visit is a trip to a veterinarian or animal hospital with professionals who specialize in emergency veterinary care. When unexpected health issues strike, a visit to an emergency vet may be unavoidable. But how much does an emergency vet visit cost, and what can you do to reduce the price of care? Let’s take a closer look. How much does an emergency vet visit cost on average? An average trip to the emergency vet could cost pet owners anywhere from $150 to $1,000, depending on the issue at hand. For most basic emergencies – that is, those where your pet can be treated and released within the same day – you can expect to pay a few hundred dollars. But how much does an emergency vet visit cost if your pet needs advanced treatment services? Let’s break down some estimates of the cost of some common interventions used in emergency care: Vet Exam: $150 to $250 Basic Blood Work: $50 to $200 Basic Imaging: $150 to $700 Hospitalization: $2,000 to $3,000 Emergency Surgery: $2,000 to $5,000+ Emergency Vet vs. Regular Vet Costs In most cases, a trip to the emergency vet will cost more than a trip to your regular vet. The average cost for a regular vet visit in the US is about $61. However, you can generally expect to pay more than this for an emergency, even if the treatment your pet receives is fairly straightforward. There are a few reasons this tends to be true: Emergency vet clinics often offer more advanced treatment options and diagnostics, allowing them to deliver life-saving care Vets and staff at emergency clinics have advanced training and skills An emergency visit may come with access to veterinary specialists Factors Affecting the Cost of ER Vet Visits We know that the average emergency vet cost may vary, but what factors – other than your pet’s condition – can affect how much you’ll pay? Below are a few more key factors that might influence emergency vet prices: Pet age Type of animal Breed Gender Age Health history Pet behavior: for example, pets that show aggressive behavior may require medication to calm down, which might increase the cost of care Your location How can I make ER vet visits more affordable? Emergencies don’t follow a schedule. For many pet owners, emergency vet costs can seem legitimately cost-prohibitive. However, there are some ways you can reduce the cost of care. In some cases, you might be able to get help with emergency vet bills by crowdfunding online or working with local charities and nonprofit organizations designed to support pets and their owners. In others, you can use options like those below to offset vet prices. Pet Insurance One of the best ways to ensure that you can access affordable emergency vet services is to plan wisely. Set up an insurance fund so that you have the money you need to cover vet costs at a moment’s notice. Some pet owners choose to achieve this by setting up a savings account and depositing a set amount of money each month, creating a sort of “safety net.” Another option is pet insurance – just be sure to set it up early, before emergencies happen. Payment Installments Some emergency vet clinics may offer payment or installment plans via credit cards specifically designated for medical care that allow you to cover the cost of care over time. Instead of paying the entire amount due at once, you may be able to pay off your balance over a period of several months, often with zero or lower interest rates than traditional credit cards. Because they are limited to medical care, approval rates are also better with higher limits available if needed. Preventative Care Avoiding emergency care altogether will always be the best way to reduce its cost. While not all emergencies are avoidable, many can be mitigated with preventative care. Be sure to take your furry friend to their regular vet visits, stay up to date on all vaccinations and medications, and bring up concerns to your vet before they evolve into something serious. Looking for an Emergency Vet in Austin? Call Violet Crown Veterinary Specialists As we can see, there is no single answer to the question, “How much does an emergency vet visit cost?” It all depends on the situation, your pet, and the vet you visit. In general, though, you can expect to pay several hundred or even several thousand dollars for treatment. The cost of care is nothing to scoff at, which is why it’s important to choose veterinary professionals who are reputable, reliable, and able to help you navigate your pet’s treatment journey. Violet Crown Veterinary Specialists is an Emergency Vet Hospital offering emergency and C ritical Care Treatment Services, including emergency surgery, to our community. When you need access to a trustworthy Austin 24-hour vet and emergency treatment center, our team is here to help. Contact Us Any Time or give us a call at (512) 284-2877 to get started.
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Hip dysplasia: these two simple words raise alarm bells for many large- and giant-breed dog owners. But in reality, dogs of any size can experience this common but potentially painful condition. Hip dysplasia in dogs can significantly reduce your pet’s quality of life, but there are steps that you can take to ensure your best friend gets the help they need before things worsen. What is Canine Hip Dysplasia? Hip dysplasia is a common skeletal condition that affects the “ball and socket” function of the hip joint. Canine hip dysplasia is no different. When the “ball” of the joint doesn’t properly fit into the “socket,” the two rub and grind together instead of smoothly sliding against each other. Over time, this results in deterioration of the joint, eventually leading to loss of function. It’s most common to see hip dysplasia in dogs that are large or giant breeds, but the condition occurs in smaller breeds, too. Signs of Hip Dysplasia in Dogs Some dogs begin to show symptoms of hip dysplasia as young as a few months old. However, many cases of dog hip dysplasia develop over time as your pet ages. Hip dysplasia may emerge alongside osteoarthritis , which impacts the cartilage of joints instead of bone. Specific symptoms can vary depending on the severity of the hip dysplasia. Generally, though, potential signs of hip dysplasia in dogs include: Limping or lameness in the back legs Reluctance or difficulty rising, jumping, running, etc. Loss of muscle mass on the hind legs Shifting of weight to the front limbs (i.e., noticeable enlargement of muscles) Decreased physical activity Decreased range of motion in the hips Hip pain and stiffness What Causes Hip Dysplasia in Dogs? It’s usually not possible to pinpoint a specific cause behind hip dysplasia in dogs. In many cases, several factors may be responsible for the condition’s development, including: Genetics. Hip dysplasia is hereditary. As a result, genetics are considered the biggest single risk factor for hip dysplasia in dogs. The condition is most common in larger breeds, like the Great Dane, Saint Bernard, German Shepherd, and Golden Retriever. Nutrition. Improper nutrition – which can easily affect larger dog breeds that grow rapidly – can also influence a dog’s likelihood of developing hip dysplasia. Exercise. Too little or too much exercise may put extra stress on the joints, whether due to weakness in surrounding muscles, excess weight, or wear and tear from impact on surfaces. Obesity. Carrying extra weight can also put a lot of stress on your dog’s joints, possibly exacerbating or even causing hip dysplasia. Understanding Dog Hip Dysplasia Treatment Options Left unaddressed, hip dysplasia in dogs can significantly affect your four-legged friend’s quality of life. Fortunately, treatment for canine hip dysplasia is typically fairly straightforward. Lifestyle Changes For milder symptoms, lifestyle changes may be enough to help your dog get back to their happy, healthy self. These changes will depend on the risk factors that affect your dog. For instance, dogs with obesity can benefit from losing weight to take stress off their hips. Likewise, dogs that tend to over-exercise may find relief from symptoms if their exercise or outside time is restricted a bit more. Pain Management Many dogs benefit from using joint supplements that help lessen the severity of symptoms and promote good joint health. It’s also possible to use anti-inflammatory pain medications (under your vet’s supervision, of course) to calm down swelling and tightness in the joints. Surgery In cases where hip dysplasia has led to severe joint laxity or has been impacting your dog for a while, surgical treatment may be your best next step. Some of the most common examples of dog hip dysplasia surgery options include: Double or triple pelvic osteotomy (DPO/TPO) Total hip replacement (THR) Juvenile pubic symphysiodesis (JPS) for puppies around 10 to 18 weeks old Does My Dog Need Hip Surgery? Your Next Steps If your dog’s hip dysplasia has begun to affect the use of their limbs, surgery may be the most efficient way to prevent further damage. Only a veterinary professional can tell you whether your dog is a good candidate for surgery, which means it’s crucial to visit a qualified provider if you believe your dog might be living with hip dysplasia. Rest assured, though, that dog hip dysplasia surgery has a high success rate and low risk of complications. This is especially true when you seek the care of a veterinary service provider with experience performing dog hip surgery and similar procedures.
You fill up Fido’s bowl only to find it still overflowing with kibble hours later – despite your best efforts, you can’t seem to get your pup to be interested. If you’re like many dog owners, this scenario and the question, “Why won’t my dog eat?” are nothing new. But what causes dogs to not eat, exactly, and what can you do to change it? Why Won’t My Dog Eat? 5 Potential Reasons If your pooch is turning their nose at the food they used to scarf down, there are a few common issues that may be at play. 1. Picky Eaters Some dogs are just picky eaters, plain and simple. Likewise, you might find that your dog won’t eat because they’re uncomfortable with some element of their feeding situation. How to Address It First, conduct a small investigation. Did you get the same food as usual? Is it the right flavor? Is it expired, wet, or moldy? Some dogs also respond well to specific types of food. You might find that trying to switch food causes your pet to eat less or stop eating altogether. In other cases–if your dog won’t eat kibble, for example–trying a new food, like a wet formula, might be beneficial. 2. Underlying Medical Issues & Pain A decrease in appetite is a common sign of illness, pain, and many medical conditions our dogs can experience. Medical problems may be particularly likely to be behind appetite changes if your dog shows other symptoms, too, like vomiting or nausea. Similarly, if your dog is over the age of three, they likely have some form of periodontal disease , just like 80-90% of adult dogs. How to Address It If you think your dog may be in pain, sick, or injured, the first step you should take is to call your veterinarian. When dental issues are at play, visit your vet and have your pet checked for tooth issues, gum disease, abscesses, or tumors. In other cases, you may be able to encourage your dog to eat more by doing things like: Adding dog-friendly broth (no onions or garlic, low sodium, etc.) or warm water to their food Preparing meals of boiled chicken and rice to soothe the stomach Heating their food in the microwave 3. Behavioral Issues Dogs experience emotions and stress, just like us humans. That means that behavioral challenges like anxiety, depression, and fear can lead to changes in our furry friends’ behavior. It’s also possible for aging and senior dogs to experience changes in eating patterns and behavior. How to Address It If you can identify an obvious trigger for your dog’s behavioral challenges, do your best to avoid it near mealtime. It also helps to set your dog’s eating area up in a safe room of their own when stressors (like visitors or other dogs) are present. Meanwhile, if your old dog won’t eat, you can try to feed them by hand. You can also place a nonslip mat down near their bowls to help them stand securely. 4. Changes in Environment or Routine Whether it’s due to motion sickness, stress, or even time differences, decreased appetite in dogs can easily follow changes in routine. How to Address It Try to keep your dog on as consistent a schedule as possible each day, particularly when it comes to feeding times. Create and stick to a mealtime routine that helps your pup understand when it’s time to focus on chowing down. 5. Overfeeding It’s not as difficult to overfeed your pet as you might think. In fact, many dogs don’t eat the full amount stated on the packaging of their food products. If your dog is carrying some extra weight yet seems unwilling to eat at mealtimes, it may be because they’re getting too many calories elsewhere. How to Address It Reduce the amount you feed your dog, and cut back on the treats. Make sure your pup gets plenty of exercise each day to keep them healthy and happy. When Dogs Not Eating Becomes an Emergency In some cases, the answer to the question “Why won’t my dog eat?” is simple. But in others, a refusal to eat may be a sign your dog needs emergency vet care . If not eating is the only symptom you notice in your dog, you may not have an emergency on your hands. Most adult dogs can go a few days without eating as long as they continue drinking water. However, if your dog won’t eat or drink anything, it’s time to contact your vet. If your dog is very young, has an existing health condition, or is showing symptoms like those below, it’s time to contact an emergency vet: Vomiting Diarrhea Lethargy and unresponsiveness A tense or distended abdomen: your dog may yelp when their abdomen is touched
Paw pads are made of skin cells, just like the skin on our hands. That means they’re susceptible to injury and overuse – including burns from contact with hot surfaces. They also play a key role in protecting your dog’s feet and tendons. As temperatures rise and time outdoors skyrockets, it’s more important than ever to be aware of paw pad burns, what causes them, and how to avoid them. What Causes Paw Pad Burns? Most cases of dog paw paw burns are caused by high temperatures. On hot, sunny days during the summer, the pavement our dogs walk on can quickly and easily reach dangerous temperatures. Dogs can also get paw burns from extremely cold temperatures, particularly if they walk over salt used to melt ice. Paw injuries may likewise occur if your furry friend comes into contact with any strong chemical agents. How hot is too hot for dog walks? When ambient temperature exceeds 85°F (29°C), it’s hot enough for your dog to get paw burns from concrete and asphalt. So, if the temperature near you reaches or surpasses this threshold, it’s probably too hot to take your dog for a walk. Signs of Paw Pad Burns to Look For Since paw pad burns can be extremely painful, it’s important to take signs of them seriously. If you notice any of the following warning signs of burnt dog paws, get your pet off any hot surfaces as soon as possible: Limping Refusing to walk Excessive licking or biting of the paws Visible blisters Discolored paw pads or paws that look darker than usual Extreme redness and swelling Missing skin Missing parts of the paw pad How to Protect Your Dog from Paw Pad Burns & Injuries Keep your four-legged friends safe from paw pad injuries this summer and all year round with these essential tips: Perform a 10-second test on surfaces. On warm days, place your hand or bare feet on the pavement for about 10 seconds. If it’s too hot for you to touch for that long, it’s too hot for your pets, too. Time your walks for cooler temperatures. Avoid walking your pet at the hottest time of day, and try to schedule walks during cooler periods, like during the late evening. Stick to the grass. On warmer days, your dog can still enjoy the outdoors by staying in grassy areas like parks. Consider dog booties. If you can’t avoid hot surfaces on your walks or want to be extra cautious, you can get some dog boots to protect your pet’s paws. How to Treat Dog Paw Burns If you believe your dog’s paws may have been injured by hot pavement, the first thing you should do is assess the severity of the burn , if possible. First-degree burns are the mildest and cause light pink to red skin, slight swelling, and skin sensitivity. Second-degree burns are more severe and usually cause more severe swelling, blistering, and tough skin that may ooze fluid. Third-degree burns are usually considered a medical emergency. These burns are severe and cause necrosis (death) of nearby tissue, which may lead the skin to crack and ooze pus or fluid. Mild first-degree paw burns might respond well to at-home treatment. Here are a few things you can do to keep your pet comfortable and help their paws heal quickly: Soak your dog’s paws in cool (NOT ice) water or apply cold compresses to the area for at least 30 minutes Disinfect the paws and pat them dry. Cut away hair around the paws to prevent infection before bandaging them or covering them with socks to prevent licking. When Should You Go to the Vet for Paw Burns? If your dog’s paws don’t look better after a day of at-home care, it’s time to take them to the vet. Likewise, if your dog has burns any more severe than a mild first-degree burn, it’s best to head straight to the vet. This is especially true if you notice other signs your pet needs emergency veterinary care , like sudden changes in mobility or collapsing. Even if you’re not sure if your dog is experiencing a paw burn, if your pet seems uncomfortable or is struggling to get away, you should still visit a vet for pain relief.
Pets often feel unwell at less-than-ideal times. Maybe you’ve noticed your pet coughing or limping on a weekend or holiday. Or maybe they’ve gotten injured, and your regular veterinarian can’t fit you in right away. In these situations, it’s normal to wonder if your pet needs emergency vet care or if they can wait until the next available appointment. Every second counts when an animal experiences a medical crisis. But it’s not always easy to determine when to take a pet to an emergency vet. Even experienced pet owners can find it challenging to make the right decision. Here are five signs of a pet emergency to help you determine if your pet needs immediate veterinary care. 1. Heavy Panting Panting after an energetic play session or a hard run is normal. However, excessive panting can be a sign of several serious health issues. Heatstroke is commonly associated with heavy panting. This life-threatening condition occurs when animals get too hot and can’t regulate their body temperature properly. They pant excessively as they try to cool down and may have distressed breathing. Other symptoms of heatstroke can include: Agitation or pacing Confusion or lethargy Drooling Excessive thirst Red gums Searching for shade Seizures Vomiting Intense panting can also be a sign of pain in pets . Seek emergency veterinary care if your pet has sudden onset or uncontrollable panting, especially if exposed to hot temperatures. 2. Seizures Witnessing your pet having a seizure can be terrifying, especially for the first time. Seizures typically have three phases: Pre-ictal: Your pet may act anxious, cry, or pace around before a seizure begins. These signs can be subtle. Ictal: The seizure occurs during this phase. Symptoms may include excessive drooling, urination, defecation, and loss of consciousness. Post-ictal: The pet may seem confused or have trouble walking. Your pet needs to see an emergency vet if they have multiple seizures in 24 hours. You should also go to the vet for an emergency visit if they have a seizure lasting more than five minutes or get injured while seizing. 3. Choking Pets can choke on food, toys, clothing, and other objects. They can also choke if their collar gets caught on something. Symptoms of choking include: Blue or pale mucous membranes Coughing Drooling Gagging Pawing at the mouth Carefully open your pet’s mouth if you suspect they’re choking on an object. Look inside and use your hooked index finger to remove any objects caught in their mouth. If the item is lodged in their throat, use tongs or tweezers to remove it. Seek emergency care if you can’t remove the item or your pet struggles to breathe. You can also call the emergency vet and ask them to walk you through the Heimlich maneuver. 4. Sudden Weakness or Collapse Your pet may develop sudden weakness or the inability to walk during a medical emergency. For example, you may notice your pet dragging their hind legs and falling over. Many serious conditions can cause these symptoms, so recognizing them can help you know when to take your pet to the ER vet. Sudden weakness or paralysis can indicate heart disease . Cats may develop rear weakness if a blood clot travels to their back legs. A heart condition can also cause pets to walk with a limp or lose the ability to stand. Spinal injuries can also cause temporary weakness or paralysis in animals. For example, a fibrocartilaginous embolism prevents blood flow to the spinal cord. Seek veterinary care immediately to give your pet the best chance of recovery. 5. Exposure to Toxins Our homes are filled with foods and items that can poison animals. Here are a few common toxins : Alcohol Antifreeze Bleach Garlic Grapes Insecticides Marijuana Mothballs Onions Play-Doh or clay Xylitol in sugar-free gum and candy Many popular houseplants and landscaping plants can also poison pets. For example, your pet may get sick after eating aloe vera, hibiscus, hydrangea, and lilies. Contact the ASPCA Poison Control Center immediately if you suspect your pet has eaten a poisonous substance. They can help you determine when to see the emergency vet and recommend actions you can take at home to protect your pet’s health.