Author: Dr. Scott Leffler

Recommended Food and Treats for Your Pet’s Dental Health

Posted on by Dr. Scott Leffler

Keeping your pet’s teeth healthy is essential to their overall well-being. At The Animal Medical Center of Streetsboro, we’re here to help pet owners in Streetsboro and surrounding areas, including Aurora, Akron, and Hudson, understand the importance of dental care for pets.

In this blog, we’ll share tips on why dental health matters, the best foods and treats for maintaining healthy teeth, and how to spot signs of dental issues in your pet.

 

Why Dental Health Is Important for Pets

 

Like humans, pets need good oral hygiene to prevent tooth decay, gun disease, and bad breath. Poor dental health can lead to more serious problems, such as infections that spread to other parts of the body. By focusing on dental care, you can ensure your pet lives a long, healthy life.

Pets are often masters at hiding discomfort, which is why regular dental checkups are so important. At The Animal Medical Center of Streetsboro, our team is equipped to assess and maintain your pet’s dental health at every stage of their life.

 

Top Foods and Treats for Healthy Teeth

 

Greenies Dental TreatsChoosing the right foods and treats can significantly impact your pet’s dental health. Here are some options we recommend:

Dental Chews: Specially designed dental chews help reduce plaque and tartar buildup. Look for ones approved by the Veterinary Oral Health Council (VOHC).

Dry Kibble: Dry kibble can be better for teeth than wet food, as it helps remove plaque. Some brands even offer dental formulas for added benefits.

Raw Bones (for dogs): Raw bones (never cooked!) can help clean teeth naturally. However, always supervise your dog to prevent choking.

Vegetables and Fruits: Pumpkins, carrots, and apples are a few great options as they are easy to eat, aid in cleaning the teeth, and do not stick to the teeth.

Dental Treats for Cats: Cats benefit from dental treats that clean teeth while satisfying their taste buds. Options like Greenies or similar VOHC-approved products are great choices.Water Additives: Additives designed to promote dental health can be mixed into your pet’s water bowl, reducing bacteria and freshening their breath.

Always consult your veterinarian before introducing any new foods or treats to ensure they’re safe for your pet.

 

Signs Your Pet May Need Dental Care

 

It’s important to recognize when your pet’s dental health needs attention. Here are some signs to watch for:

  • Bad breath that doesn’t go away
  • Discolored teeth or visible plaque buildup
  • Red or swollen gums
  • Difficulty eating or chewing
  • Drooling more than usual
  • Pawing at the mouth or showing signs of discomfort

If you notice any of these symptoms, schedule a dental checkup right away. Early intervention can prevent more serious dental or health issues and keep your pet’s mouth healthy.

How The Animal Medical Center of Streetsboro Can Help

At The Animal Medical Center of Streetsboro, we provide comprehensive dental care services to pets in Streetsboro, Aurora, Akron, and other nearby communities. Our experienced veterinarians and team are dedicated to keeping your pet’s teeth and gums healthy.

From routine cleanings to advanced dental treatments, we’re here to partner with you in maintaining your pet’s oral health. We’ll also guide you on how to continue dental care at home, from brushing tips to dietary recommendations.

Schedule a Dental Appointment For Your Pet Today

Don’t wait until dental problems arise—proactive care is key to your pet’s health. Schedule an appointment with The Animal Medical Center of Streetsboro today and give your furry friend the gift of a healthy smile.

Visit our website or call us to book your pet’s dental checkup today!

I Noticed Blood in My Pet’s Urine. What Should I Do?

Posted on by Dr. Scott Leffler
If you notice blood in your pet’s urine, it is important to take them to the vet as soon as possible. Blood in the urine can indicate a variety of different medical conditions ranging from minor infections to more serious illnesses such as urinary stones, tumors, and even kidney failure.

What Conditions can Cause a Pet to Have Blood in Their Urine?

There are several possible causes of blood in a pet’s urine. Here are some common ones:
• Urinary tract infections – UTIs can cause inflammation and bleeding in the bladder or urethra, resulting in bloody urine.
• Kidney stones – These hard deposits form within the kidneys and can travel to the urethra, where they can cause irritation and bleeding.
• Bladder or kidney cancer – Tumors in these organs can also lead to bloody urine.
• Kidney failure – This is a serious condition that can lead to a buildup of toxins in the blood and sometimes results in bloody urine.
• Blood clotting disorders – Certain diseases or medications can lead to a pet’s blood not clotting normally, which can cause bleeding in the urine.

What Should I Do if I Notice Blood in My Pet’s Urine?

If you notice blood in your pet’s urine, it is important to take them to the vet as soon as possible. The vet will be able to perform tests and determine the cause of the bleeding, if any. Depending on their diagnosis, they may recommend further treatment, such as antibiotics or surgery.
It is also important to remember that not all instances of bloody urine point to an underlying health issue; sometimes, it can simply be caused by dehydration or an infection that will clear up on its own. However, it is always best to get your pet checked out by the vet so they can make a diagnosis and provide the best treatment for their condition.
Blood in your pet’s urine is often a sign of an underlying health issue and should not be ignored. If you notice blood in your pet’s urine, contact your veterinarian right away to get them the care they need.

What to Expect at the Veterinarian

Your veterinarian will be able to determine what type of medical condition your pet has by taking a sample of their urine and doing a urinalysis. This will help them to pinpoint the cause of the issue and develop an appropriate treatment plan. In some cases, the vet may also want to do additional tests, such as blood work or x-rays, to rule out any other underlying conditions that could be causing the issue.
If your pet is diagnosed with a medical condition, it will typically need to take medication and/or have surgery to treat it. Depending on the severity of their condition, they may also require special dietary changes or other lifestyle modifications in order to live comfortably.
It’s important to follow all instructions provided by your veterinarian in order to ensure your pet’s recovery. Additionally, make sure that you monitor their behavior and watch for any signs of distress. If you notice anything that seems out of the ordinary, contact your vet immediately.

Schedule a Visit at the Animal Medical Center of Streetsboro

Blood in your pet’s urine is never a good sign and should be taken seriously. If you notice blood in your pet’s urine, it is important to take them to the vet as soon as possible for diagnosis and treatment. Following the instructions provided by your veterinarian will help ensure that your pet recovers quickly and lives a long and healthy life.  Questions? Contact our expert team today!

Does My Dog Suffer From Anxiety? How Can I Tell?

Posted on by Dr. Scott Leffler
Anxiety in dogs can be an extremely stressful and distressing experience for both pet and owner. It is important to understand what causes your dog’s anxiety so that you can effectively manage it.

What Causes Anxiety in Dogs?

Nervous Dog at Loud NoisesCommon causes of anxiety in dogs include fear or distress around loud or unfamiliar noises, changes in their routine or environment, separation from their owners, or a traumatic experience. Other factors like genetics, age, and breed can also contribute to anxiety in dogs. Regardless of the cause, it is important to understand your pet’s individual needs and create strategies that best address their specific triggers and response.

What are the Signs of Anxiety in Dogs?

Signs of anxiety in dogs can vary depending on the severity and type of the disorder. Common signs include barking or whining excessively, trembling or shaking, panting, pacing, hiding, refusing food, and urinating or defecating indoors. Dogs may also display behavioral changes such as chewing furniture or other destructive behaviors. Paying close attention to your dog’s body language and behavior can help you determine if they are experiencing anxiety.

What Should I do if I Think My Dog has Anxiety?

If your dog is displaying any of these signs, it’s important to speak with your veterinarian as soon as possible. Your vet may recommend medications or other treatments that can help manage their symptoms. A behavioral modification plan might also be advised in order to help your dog cope with their anxiety. This plan will typically involve behavior modification techniques and environmental changes that can reduce the sources of stress for your pet. Additionally, providing plenty of mental and physical stimulation through exercise and playtime can help to reduce signs of anxiety in dogs.
At the Animal Medical Center of Streetsboro, we can also recommend CBD supplements or medications that your dog can take to help keep them calm and reduce their anxiety.
Overall, it’s important to be observant of any changes in behavior and to speak with your vet if you suspect that your dog is struggling with anxiety. With the right treatment and care, it’s possible for dogs to lead happy and healthy lives. Contact us today to schedule an appointment.

A Wound Care Guide for Dogs

Posted on by Dr. Scott Leffler
Dogs can get injured in several ways, so as a pet owner, it’s essential to know some basic wound care for your pet to help keep them comfortable and patched up when an injury occurs.


How do I Know If My Dog’s Wound Needs Veterinary Care?

Wound Care for DogsWhen your dog is wounded, they need to be treated quickly to prevent infection. In some cases, certain injuries will require veterinarian care and evaluation for the best results.
If your dog has a deep or severe wound, is bleeding profusely, has a foreign object embedded in the wound, or if the wound is located on its face or near its eyes, it’s important to seek professional care right away. Additionally, any wound to their chest or abdomen will require professional care.


How Can I Care for My Dog’s Wound at Home?

There are some basic steps you can take to care for your dog’s wounds at home. First, clean the wound with cool water and mild soap. Never use hydrogen peroxide, alcohol, or other harsh chemicals, as these can irritate the wound and delay healing.
Once the wound is clean, dry it off and apply an antibiotic ointment to help prevent infection. Finally, cover the wound with a clean, dry bandage. Change the bandage daily to keep the wound clean and dry. Monitor your dog’s wound closely for any signs of infection, such as redness, swelling, or discharge. If you notice any of these signs, please contact your veterinarian right away.
By following these simple steps, you can help your dog heal quickly and comfortably from their wound.


How Do I Care for Their Wound After They’ve Seen the Veterinarian?

After your dog has seen the veterinarian and received treatment for its wound, there are a few additional steps you need to take to ensure they heal properly.
Make sure to keep the wound clean and dry, and continue to apply an antibiotic ointment as directed by your veterinarian. Change the bandage regularly, and monitor the wound for any signs of infection. If the infection does occur, please contact your veterinarian right away.
Additionally, it’s important to keep an eye on your dog’s overall health and well-being during the healing process. If they seem to be in pain or having difficulty moving around, please contact your veterinarian.
With proper care, most dog wounds will heal quickly and without complication. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can help make sure that happens.

Wound Care for Dogs at the Animal Medical Center of Streetsboro

If your dog is injured, we recommend calling our office to have your dog treated to ensure they remain free of infection. Contact us today to learn more.

February is Dental Awareness Month. Why You Should Get Your Pet Dental Cleaning.

Posted on by Dr. Scott Leffler
Just like us, dogs need to have their teeth cleaned! Within your pet’s mouth, bacteria can quickly build up and cause a number of problems. Fortunately, there are steps you can take to prevent these issues from occurring.

Why are Regular Veterinary Cleanings Important?

Having regular veterinary check-ups and cleanings is important for the health of your dog’s teeth and gums. At these check-ups, the veterinarian can detect any problems early on. They may also recommend that you brush your dog’s teeth or give them dental chews to help keep their mouths healthy.
Neglecting your pet’s dental health can lead to tooth pain, decay, and loss of teeth. They can also develop conditions such as gingivitis, periodontal disease, and bad breath without proper care.

What Happens During a Dental Cleaning?

During your pet’s dental cleaning, the veterinarian will examine the teeth and gums. X-rays may also be taken to detect any root problems or other issues. They can then clean and polish the teeth using ultrasonic scaling equipment. The vet may also perform extractions if necessary.

Common Dental Issues in Pets

Plaque is one of the most common issues in dogs, and it builds up quickly with poor dental hygiene. Plaque is a sticky substance that accumulates on the teeth and gums and can lead to tartar buildup. This buildup can cause inflammation in the gums, which can then lead to periodontal disease. The bacteria from plaque and tartar also have the potential to enter your pet’s bloodstream, causing infections in other organs, such as the heart.
Additionally, bad breath can be a sign that your pet’s teeth are not being taken care of properly. This is because the bacteria in their mouth produce an unpleasant odor.
Taking care of your dog’s teeth and gums should be part of your routine pet care regime. By brushing their teeth regularly, providing dental chews, and taking them to the veterinarian for regular check-ups and cleanings, you can help keep your pet’s mouth healthy.
By being proactive about your pet’s dental health, you can prevent more serious issues from arising in the future. Dental health is important to overall animal wellness, so don’t forget to add it to your pet care routine.
This Dental Awareness Month, show your pet some extra love and get them the dental care they need! Schedule your dental cleaning at the Animal Medical Center of Streetsboro today!

Homeopathic Remedies That Will Keep Your Pet Healthy and Happy

Posted on by Dr. Scott Leffler

Looking for a natural way to care for your pets? Consider homeopathic remedies! At the Animal Medical Center of Streetsboro, we’ve put together a guide on some common homeopathic remedies you can use to keep your pet healthy and happy!

Common Homeopathic Remedies for Pets

Whether your dog gets an upset stomach or gets into something they shouldn’t, there are natural ways to treat them until you get them to the vet. We recommend remedies such as:

Baking Soda

Many people trim their dog’s nails at home to save time and money, but sometimes, you may accidentally cut your dog’s nail too close to the quick, which can lead to bleeding. You can pat the area with a little bit of baking soda to help clot the blood and stop the bleeding.

Hydrogen Peroxide

If you suspect your pet has ingested something toxic, you need to call your vet or an emergency vet to speak with them about the situation. Sometimes, they may ask you to induce vomiting with hydrogen peroxide. You should only induce vomiting when instructed to do so by a veterinarian.

If they instruct you to do so, you will want to use the 3% pharmaceutical hydrogen peroxide, not the hair dye type. If it has been longer than two hours since they ingested the poison, then it has already moved through their system to the small intestine. You shouldn’t induce vomiting if the poison is bleach, petroleum distillate, or drain cleaner, as these will cause secondary burns they come back up.

To administer the peroxide, you will use only one teaspoon per 10 pounds of body weight. This will be given orally, and you must walk the dog around. You can expect them to begin vomiting shortly afterward.

Epsom Salts

If your pet has a slight limp rather than an emergency injury, you can use Epsom salt baths to ease their pain before their scheduled vet visit. To do so, you must use one-half cup of Epsom salt in a warm bath twice daily. If your dog does not enjoy bathing, you can soak a warm washcloth in Epsom salt and water and gently apply the cloth to the affected area.

Ginger

If you have a dog that gets car sick or has an upset stomach, you can give them ginger to ease their discomfort. This can be given as a ginger cookie or a few natural form capsules of ginger. For car sickness, try giving your dog a ginger cookie or two, depending on their size, about one-half hour before the car ride to keep their stomach settled.

Coconut Oil

Coconut oilIf your pet has dry skin issues, try coconut oil. This works well because it works inside and outside of your dog to resolve the problem. This is a great remedy for dogs who have seasonal or situational dry skin issues, not for those with allergies. If your pet has allergies, be sure to take them to the vet for proper treatment.

For instances where the central heat dries their skin, or you need to soother their skin before a vet visit, coconut oil drops on their food or applied to the skin can make a major difference in reducing dryness. You can also apply coconut oil to wounds since it is antibacterial.

Schedule Your Pet’s Checkup Today!

For more information on homeopathic remedies for your pet or to schedule your next appointment, contact the Animal Medical Center of Streetsboro today!

Post-Pandemic Pet Strategies

Posted on by Dr. Scott Leffler
As many people return to the office, pets will be left at home alone for extended periods. Whether you got your pet during the pandemic or had them beforehand, your pet will likely need to adjust to you going back to the office.
At the Animal Medical Center of Streetsboro, we’ve put together some tips to help you ease the separation anxiety that may occur in your pet when you head back into the office.
What is Separation Anxiety?
Travel CrateSeparation anxiety is sued to describe dogs that are overly attached or dependent on family members. They will become extremely anxious and show distress when separated from their owner in ways such as:
  • Vocalization
  • Destruction
  • House soiling
Dogs who have separation anxiety will typically try to stay close to their owners, follow them around the home, and will rarely spend time outdoors alone. Signs of anxiety will begin as their owner prepares to leave home. During separation, the dog may experience shaking, shivering, restlessness, refusal to eat, excess salivation, or quietness/acting withdrawn.

Ways to Ease Post-Pandemic Separation Anxiety in Your Pet

There are several ways you can prepare your pet for your return to the office, including:

Depart the Home Quickly

When you are getting ready to leave home, do so quickly. Prolonged goodbyes with your pet can increase their anxiety. By keeping goodbyes low-key, you can help your pet stay calm and teach them to worry less while you are gone.

Create a Place in the Home Where They Feel Safe

Dedicated a place in your home as a safe space for your pet, such as a utility room or crate. Make the area comfy with a bed, water, and their favorite toys. You can also practice leaving your pet for a brief amount of time by giving them a treat while you go to another room. Return to the room and release your pet with no fuss. Allow your pet to adjust and gradually stay away for longer periods as they get used to their safe space.

Keep Your Pet Active in Both Mind and Body

When you exercise your pet, they will find it easier to relax when you are away. Make sure to play fetch and take a long walk each day to help them burn off some energy. You can also set up food dispensing toys or puzzle toys that they can play with while you’re gone.

Turn on the TV or the Radio

Background noise like the TV or the radio can help soothe our pets. For added peace of mind, you can install a pet camera to monitor your pet while you are away.

Maintain a Consistent Routine

When you go back into the office, it is crucial to establish a routine with your pet. This will help them relax as restrictions lift, and you are out of the home more often. Be sure to take regualr walks, playtime, meals, and alone time now before you return to work.

Leave Your Scent Behind

Leave a blanket or shirt with your pet in their crate or safe space. This can help comfort your pet while you are away.

Want to Learn More About Separation Anxiety? We Can Help!

The expert team at the Animal Medical Center of Streetsboro can help you better understand and treat separation anxiety in your pet. Contact us today to schedule an appointment!

Tips to Calculate Your Dog’s Meal Portions Properly

Posted on by Dr. Scott Leffler
Pet obesity can cause serious health issues such as cancer, arthritis, breathing difficulties, and skin disorders and can shorten your pet’s lifespan. While feeding your dogs too little food can leave them malnourished, feeding them too much can lead to obesity, which is why understanding the correct portion sizes is crucial when feeding your dog.
At the Animal Medical Center of Streetsboro, we’ve put together some tips for properly portioning your dog’s food:

Figure Out Your Dog’s Conditioning Score

Obese DogThe body conditioning score or BCS is a way of evaluating your dog’s body fat. Once your veterinarian has visualized and palpated your pet, they will assign your pet a score from one to 9. One is extremely emaciated, and nine is extremely obese. Scoring is as follows:
Emaciated- 1
You can see the ribs, pelvic bone, lumbar vertebrae, and bony prominences, even from a distance. An emaciated dog will have no discernable body fat, and their muscle loss is obvious.
Very Thin- 2
You can easily see the ribs, pelvic bone, lumbar vertebrae, and bony prominences. Minimal muscle loss and no palpable fat are present.
Thin- 3
You can easily palpate their ribs, and the ribs may be easy to see. They have prominent lumbar vertebrae and pelvic bones. Their waist is also easily visible.
Ideal Weight- 4
They have palpable ribs with no excess fat. They have a waist that is evident, and their abdominal tuck is discernable.
Ideal Weight- 5
The dog has palpable ribs with no excess fat. When viewed from above, their waist is evident, and from the side, their abdomen is tucked up.
Overweight- 6
The ribs are palpable but under a slight fat covering with a discernable waist and abdominal tuck.
Heavy- 7
The ribs are under a heavy covering of fat and are difficult to palpate. You can see noticeable fat deposits on their lumbar area and at the base of the tail. Their waist is absent or hard to see. They have slight abdominal tuck.
Obese- 8
You cannot palpate the ribs, and they are underneath a heavy fat covering. You can see heavy fat deposits on the lumbar area and the base of the tail. The waist and abdominal tuck are not visible. You will also see obvious abdominal distention.
Severely Obese- 9
You will see major fat deposits across the dog’s body, tail, and spine. You may even see them on the neck and limbs, with an absent abdominal tuck and waist and abdominal distention.

Don’t Rely on the Label.

Dog Diet and NutritionWhile you may think the label on your dog’s food for recommended food amounts is accurate, they are actually just estimates, and they typically overestimate your dog’s food needs. The general estimates on your dog’s food bag do not consider your dog’s individual needs, which are based on breed, age, activity level, weight, and whether they are spayed or neutered.
While you can use the label as a starting point, you don’t want to assume the label recommendations are completely accurate. Speak with your veterinarian for the correct serving size for your dog’s unique needs.

Determine Your Dog’s Daily Energy Requirements

With your dog’s specification, you can calculate their daily required energy. We recommend an online calculator to make this easier to do. The specification you need includes your pet’s:
  • Weight
  • Body Conditioning Score
  • Species
  • Spay or neuter status
With the caloric needs determined, you can then determine how much food they need daily. You can reference the dog food label to determine how many calories you feed your dog.

Be Sure to Measure Out Their Portions

While it may be easier to eyeball the portion, you need to make sure that you are using a measuring cup or kitchen scale for the most accurate portion size. Eyeballing the portion can lead to overfeeding or not feeding enough.

Keep An Eye on Your Dog’s Weight

You want to be sure that you are weighing your dog every two to four weeks and assessing their BCS. Use a notebook to track the results. This will give you a guide to notice weight changes and adjust their food intake as needed.

Don’t Forget About The Treats

When feeding your dog treats, we recommend keeping the treat at 10% of their caloric intake per day. You must ensure you include these calories in your dog’s overall energy requirements.

Call Your Veterinarian at Animal Medical Center of Streetsboro

If you have any questions or concerns regarding your dog’s weight or diet, be sure to talk to your veterinarian. We will use our knowledge and expertise to guide you in the right direction to meet your dog’s needs.

What Should I Do If Another Dog Bites My Dog?

Posted on by Dr. Scott Leffler
Dog bites are among the most common veterinary emergencies. Your dog could experience a dog fight at a dog park, doggy daycare, a walk, or at a friend’s house. If your dog is attacked by another dog, it can be a scary and chaotic experience for you and your dog.
To help you respond appropriately, the Animal Medical Center of Streetsboro has put together a guide on what to do if your dog is bitten.

Continue reading →

Is Your Pet Afraid of the Vet? What You Can Do To Calm their Nerves

Posted on by Dr. Scott Leffler
Although regular vet visits for exams and vaccines are essential to your dog’s health, going to the vet can be stressful for your dog. At the Animal Medical Center of Streetsboro, we’ve put together a guide to help you ease your pet’s anxiety prior to their next vet visit.

Tips for Preparing Them Before the Appointment

Help Them Get Comfortable with Touch
Nervous DogYour dog is not naturally comfortable with their ears, belly, feet, or nails being touched, so they need time to get comfortable. Take time each day to practice these actions with your pet. This will help them get accustomed to these actions and make them more at ease when they go to the veterinarian.
Get Them Used to the Car
If your dog is not already used to car rides, it’s important to take them on several short car rides before their appointment to prevent them from being anxious about the car ride on top of the vet visit. You should also make sure that they are comfortable with their crate if you plan on using one for travel.
Take Them for a Visit to the Vet’s Office Ahead of Time
If you are able to, bring your dog to our office ahead of your appointment to allow them to become familiar with the sounds, scents, staff, and other animals. This will help your dog form a positive association with our office.
Try an Anxiety Aid
There is a variety of anxiety aids on the market that you can use to help calm your dog, including:
  • CBD oil
  • Calming supplements
  • Pheromone sprays
  • Pressure wraps
  • Herbal supplements
  • Calming collar
Try some different aids for your dog before their vet visit to see what works best for them.
Keep an Eye on Any Symptoms
Since your dog can’t talk, be sure to pay close attention to them and make a note of any issues or symptoms you’ve seen so you can relay the information to your veterinarian.

How Can I Prepare Them for the Day of the Appointment?

On the day of the appointment, there are several measures you can take to keep your dog calm, including:

Let Your Dog Exercise 

Allowing your dog to exercise before the visit can help them with a variety of behavioral issues. Exercising your dog before the visit can help tire them out and relax them before their appointment.

Avoid Petting Your Dog

If you notice that your dog is nervous at their visit, try to avoid petting them or talking to them. This will reinforce their anxiety because it will appear as if you are rewarding their anxious behavior.

Bring Along Their Favorite Treats

By having their favorite treats on hand, you can use them to encourage your pet. Be sure to avoid feeding your pet right before their office visit.

Ready to Make An Appointment? We Can Help!

If you have questions about anxiety in pets or would like to schedule an appointment for a check-up, contact the Animal Medical Center of Streetsboro today!