Pet Obesity Diagnosis and Treatment Options 

Pet Obesity Diagnosis and Treatment Options 

Over the past few years, the topic “Pet Obesity Diagnosis and Treatment Options” has caught pet owners’ attention. And that’s because recent studies conducted in Australia have revealed a concerning trend regarding the weight of cats and dogs. These studies indicate that a significant proportion, up to one-third, of the pet population in the country is currently classified as overweight.

Studies have shown that dogs have a higher likelihood of experiencing weight problems compared to cats. Additionally, certain factors such as age, neutering, and living in single-pet households can further increase the risk of weight issues in pets.

How do I know if my pet is obese?

If your pet weighs more than 15 percent more than is ideal for its breed, it is termed overweight. Anything that is higher than 15% is considered to be in the category of obesity. Use your hands to touch the animal’s ribs and spine to determine if they are carrying excess weight. You should be able to feel a healthy animal’s bones just a little bit, even if they have a small amount of fat.

If your pet is too heavy for you to feel their ribs, that means they are carrying extra weight and are overweight.

Pet Obesity Diagnosis and Treatment Options

When a pet is obese, it’s important to create a special diet plan that helps them lose weight. Just like people, it’s important to remember that overweight pets need a special exercise plan made just for them. In addition, your vet will make a maintenance plan to help your pet stay at a healthy weight.

We can help your pet

Our team of competent vets is experts at figuring out if pets are overweight. We will carefully evaluate your pet’s condition, considering different factors like their breed, age, and overall health. Once we figure out if your pet is overweight, we’ll give you a detailed plan that’s made just for your pet.

Compulsory Microchipping of Cats and Dogs in Baldivis and Golden Bay

Compulsory Microchipping of Cats and Dogs in Baldivis and Golden Bay

It is important to pay attention to the compulsory microchipping of cats and dogs in Baldivis and Golden Bay for several reasons. There are a bunch of reasons why this is so important. First of all, microchipping makes sure that your pets are safe and well taken care of. When you have a microchip on your pet, it makes it more likely that you’ll find them again if they run away.

Microchipping is a handy tool

This trendy technology helps animal shelters, vet clinics, and local authorities find and talk to the owner of a pet with a microchip. Also, making it mandatory for pets to have microchips helps decrease the number of stray animals in the neighbourhood. When all cats and dogs have microchips, it’s easier to make sure pet owners take responsibility for their pets.

Microchipping of cats and dogs in Baldivis and Golden Bay: What is it?

A microchip is a tiny electronic gadget. It helps with identifying pets in a way that lasts a long time and is super dependable. The chip is about as big as a grain of rice and is put under the animal’s skin between its shoulder blades, near the bottom of its neck. Each chip has its own unique number that can be identified using a special scanner for microchips.

Authorities carefully record and keep the unique microchip number in a detailed database list. This list has a lot of information about the animal, like what kind it is, how old it is, and its medical history. It also has information about the owner, like how to get in touch with them and where they live. Veterinarians, animal shelters, and local councils can scan your pet for a microchip.

When should you have your cat or dog microchipped in Baldivis and Golden Bay?

The Cat Act of 2011 says that if your cat is over 6 months old, it has to have a microchip. This is in Sections 14 and 23 of the Act. The government passed the Dog Act in 1976, which required dog owners to implant a microchip in their dogs once they reached 3 months of age.

However, if your pet is not feeling well, your veterinarian might decide to delay the process of microchipping.

Kennel Coughs Call your local Vet

Kennel Coughs Call your local Vet

Call Port Kennedy Veterinary Hospital

Our Veterinary Hospital team understands and respects the extraordinary nature of the human-animal bond. We dedicate ourselves to ensuring your pet achieves the best quality of life. Should you suspect your dog has Kennel Cough, call us.

Contact us today if you’re concerned about your dog suffering from kennel cough. Please read below to check out our guide to managing and getting your dog cured.

Port Kennedy Veterinary Hospital

1/9 Fielden Way, Port Kennedy, WA 6172

Phone: +61 89 524 6644

Fax: +61 89 524 6626

Email: admin@portkennedyvet.com.au

Allow up to 24 hours for responses to email.

If your dog has a loud cough and looks distressed, call

Phone: +61 89 524 6644

.

It can be distressing to witness your dog being sick. Your dog is generally miserable and lethargic. The cough itself is also loud and can sound quite concerning. This type of cough can become quite serious if left untreated for a long time, and it also prevents your dog from being near other dogs until they have recovered.

Kennel Cough, what is it?

Kennel Cough is a respiratory disease that occurs in puppies and dogs. Dogs tend to catch it at boarding kennels or off-lead dog parks. Treatment is easy. Dogs should be immunised to minimise risk.

Symptoms of Kennel Cough. 

Some common symptoms are associated with kennel cough, one being a ‘honking’ sound as your dog coughs. Other symptoms may include:

• Frequent sneezing

• Runny nose

• Tiredness

• Loss of appetite

The treatment of Kennel Cough?

Treatment is similar to a common cold in humans. A fortnight of rest should be enough for recovery to take place. Should the symptoms persist, it may be necessary to prescribe antibiotics or cough medication to ease the symptoms.

Treatment is essential if symptoms persist. 

Often, a cough may resolve itself on its own. However, if after 14 days, your dog is still not well, antibiotics may have to be used.

How to stop the spread of Kennel Cough.

Separate your dog from other pets and keep their food and water bowls apart. 

Are humans at risk?

Humans can’t catch kennel cough, but other animals may become infected.

Day out local suggestions

 

How Can I Tell If Something Is Wrong with My Cat’s Teeth?

Important Cat Vaccinations for Pets

As a responsible and caring cat owner, being vigilant about your feline friend’s dental health is essential. So, you must worry about “How Can I Tell If Something Is Wrong with My Cat’s Teeth?” 

Like humans, cats can experience dental issues requiring attention and treatment. Here are the signs to watch out for:

1. Tooth discolouration

Tooth discolouration in cats can occur due to various underlying causes. The causes can include pulpitis, pulpal haemorrhage, or pulpal necrosis that arises as a consequence of tooth trauma. These conditions can lead to changes in the coloration of the affected tooth.

2. How Can I Tell If Something Is Wrong with My Cat’s Teeth: Bad breath

One of the most frequently encountered issues when it comes to feline oral health is halitosis, also known as bad breath. This unpleasant odour can be attributed to a variety of factors, but the most prevalent cause in cats is periodontal disease.

3. Facial swelling

If you notice any signs of a potential cat tooth abscess, it is crucial to seek veterinary assistance promptly. Your trusted veterinarian may start suspecting the presence of a tooth abscess in your feline companion if they observe certain indicators.

4. Swollen and/or bleeding gums

Gingivitis is a common dental condition in cats. It refers to the inflammation that occurs along the gumline, where the gums come into contact with the teeth.

5. Changes in eating habits

Tooth problems in cats can have a significant impact on their overall health and well-being, particularly when it comes to their eating habits.

6. Excessive drooling in cats

Excessive drooling in cats is a common concern among pet owners. It can be quite alarming to see your furry friend drooling excessively, especially if it is out of the ordinary. This can be a sign of a tooth issue. 

What to do for tooth problems in cats? 

The topic, “How Can I Tell If Something Is Wrong with My Cat’s Teeth?” is now cleared. So, what should you do next? The recommended treatment for your cat will depend on the severity of their condition and how it is affecting them. When it comes to assessing the condition of your pet, it is always recommended to seek the expertise and guidance of a qualified veterinarian.
Consulting with a professional in the field of veterinary medicine comes with many benefits. You can ensure that your beloved companion receives the highest level of care and attention.

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How Can You Tell if a Dog’s Teeth are Unhealthy?

How Can You Tell if a Dog's Teeth are Unhealthy?

Your canine companion is a four-legged version of man’s best friend. Therefore, it is imperative that we always look out for their well-being. So, how can you tell if a Dog’s Teeth are Unhealthy? Here are some warning indicators to keep an eye out for:

 

1. Yellow or brown teeth

One common dental issue that can affect dogs is the discoloration of their teeth. This can manifest as either yellow or brown staining. 

 

2. Excessive drooling

One common issue that dogs may experience is excessive drooling. It can be attributed to various factors. One such factor is tooth problems, which can lead to an increase in saliva production and subsequent drooling

 

3. How Can You Tell if a Dog’s Teeth Are Unhealthy? Bad breath

When it comes to our beloved furry friends, fresh breath is not typically their strong suit. Nevertheless, have you ever experienced a situation where your pet’s breath just doesn’t smell right? It’s not always because of something they ate. In fact, sometimes it can be a sign that bacteria and plaque have accumulated in their mouths.

 

4. Changes in eating habits

Have you recently noticed that your beloved pet’s appetite has suddenly changed? It could potentially indicate underlying issues with its dental health.

 

5. Swollen or bleeding gums

Gum disease and other infections may cause inflammation and bleeding in your pet’s gums.

 

6. Pawning at their mouth

This might indicate normal teething. However, it could also be an indication of something more severe, like tooth discomfort.

 

7. Growths on the gums

You should make an appointment with your veterinarian if you see any lumps or growths on your pet that can’t be easily explained. 

 

What should you do next? 

Unlike humans, dogs have a different composition of teeth, and their oral health requirements vary. Therefore, the regular toothpaste that we use for ourselves may not be suitable for our canine companions. In fact, it can even be harmful to their health.

 

The health and happiness of our animal companions are of paramount concern. As responsible pet owners, we must ensure that we are proactive in addressing any potential health concerns that may arise. That’s why it is highly recommended that you schedule a visit to the veterinarian if you suspect your pet is experiencing any dental issues.

 

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Vaccination Requirements for Your Dogs

Your veterinarian will assess the risks and benefits based on specific lifestyle requirements
for you and your dogs and advise you appropriately. Vaccination plans vary depending on
your local area and the product and form of vaccination your vet has offered. Consequently,
if you contact different practices, you often get different prices.

https://portkennedyvet.com.au/contact-us/


Why do dogs need multiple vaccinations?


Newborn animals have not yet had the chance to develop their immunity, so they need
protection against infection. They’re receiving immunity from their mother. Maternal
immunity is only temporary. It’s steadily declining over the first few weeks of life and
almost gone by twelve weeks. The rate of decline varies depending on many factors. The dog
must undergo three vaccines from 6 to 16 weeks of age.


When can I take my puppy out after he’s had a vaccine?


Your puppy is not guaranteed to develop complete immunity from diseases vaccinated for up
to 10-14 days after our recommended third vaccine. Nevertheless, the socialisation of your
puppy at this age is essential. Puppies are better socialised to other pets, people and places
between 8 and 14 weeks of age. At this time, they are at the highest risk of infection from
diseases, especially parvovirus. Canine parvovirus is a contagious virus affecting dogs. CPV
is highly contagious and is spread from dog to dog by direct or indirect contact with their
faeces. Mortality can reach 91% in untreated cases.


It would help to avoid public areas such as parks and beaches until your dog finishes the
vaccination program. Your puppy should only socialise around animals verified to be fully
vaccinated or free from parvovirus in a setting you are comfortable with.


Do the vaccinations have 100% protection? 


Vaccines have been highly successful in safeguarding most dogs from diseases, such as
distemper, that were once common but now rare. But there are situations in which immunity
conferred by a vaccine can be overcome, and a vaccinated dog can still develop a disease. In
such instances, the infection is usually milder than it would have been if a pet had not been immunised.

A safe place for your dog.

Dental health care for your Pets

Dental health care for your Pets

Pets need regular dental care to ensure their teeth stay healthy and functional for as long as
possible. It’s critical to prevent the build-up of plaque and tartar. Dental health care for your Pets for more information read on.

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Dental plaque


Dental plaque is a sticky deposit of bacteria from saliva, food and fluid that coats the teeth
and collects where the teeth and gums meet. These bacterial deposits can damage the tooth,
forming tartar, and cause periodontal disease.
The gums can become swollen and red and bleed at the beginning of periodontal disease. The
early stages are called gingivitis. 


Dental tartar


Dental tartar forms when minerals from saliva are deposited into dental plaque, making it a
hard layer that strongly bonds to the tooth enamel. Dental tartar is difficult to remove except
during professional cleaning. Be sure to check into your vet for a regular dental check-up and
cleaning.


Symptoms 


A bacterial infection of the mouth can be a severe condition; it inflames the gums and
destroys the bone surrounding and supporting the teeth. If left untreated, it can lead to tooth
loss or needing teeth removed. 
Periodontal disease is also associated with severe health problems like kidney, heart and
liver infections. Thankfully it is easily preventable and reversible if treated appropriately in
its early stages.


Regular care of your pet’s teeth is essential.


Regular check-ups with a vet to stay on top of your pet’s dental health is essential.
Dental disease is the most common health condition affecting pets, with nearly 80% of dogs
and cats experiencing some dental disease by age four. Dental disease can cause
significant pain to your pet, and as it advances, your pet could experience tooth and gum
infection, inflammation, and bone and tooth loss. All of which can affect your pet’s general health too.

A caring place for your pet to stay when you are on Holiday.

Putting Commercial Cat and Dog Foods to the Test

Tick Paralysis in Cats Dogs and Other Species

Supermarket pet foods should usually meet the basic nutritional needs of your animal, but you really do get what you pay for. Ingredient lists are often vague and confusing so it’s hard to be sure of exactly what you’re getting, and cheaper meals are often harder for your pet to digest. We recommend choosing a premium pet food as this way you get guaranteed quality, and you can choose a formulation which supports the individual needs of your pet.

Our Favourite Cat Food

Here at Port Kennedy Veterinary Hospital we are proud to stock Hill’s premium cat food for our customers. This cat food is available in the form of a delicious wet stew or crunchy dry pellets, and each formula is carefully designed for the needs of different cats. Hill’s prescription diet range includes specific meals for weight reduction, kidney care, digestion help, skin irritations, urgent care and more. You can also choose a food that’s appropriate for the age of your cat or kitten, and all meals have been scientifically tested to ensure that they’re nutritionally balanced.

Cat Food Runner Up

The second commercial cat food that we would recommend is Royal Canin Instinctive Nutrient Preference. This formula has a great overall balance of nutritional requirements, a healthy amount of fats, protein and taurine as well as a really great injection of additional minerals. The pouches contain either chunks in gravy or chunks in jelly, and your cat will love both!

Our Favourite Dog Food

The vets here at Port Kennedy Veterinary Hospital love Hill’s dog food just as much as we love their cat food! If your dog could stand to lose a little weight, has chronic stomach issues food sensitivities or a kidney problem then you can choose one of the specially formulated meals to help cure the problem. These recipes contain no artificial flavours, colourings or preservatives and are packed full of nutrition to support vitality and mobility no matter the age of your pooch.

Dog Food Runner Up

Purina Pro Plan is our next choice for commercial dog food. This premium brand is a little more expensive, but we believe that your dog deserves the best food available as what they eat has such a huge impact on their overall health. Pro Plan is designed to support your dog’s immune, digestive and coat systems with options for different age categories and wet or dry meals available.

Hill’s premium pet foods come as part of our wellness programmes. Find out more by calling our team today on 08 6555 5149 or visit our contact page for more ways to get in touch.

Are Australian Pets Overweight by International Standards?

The answer to this question is unfortunately yes. Cats and dogs in Australia are more overweight than ever, with up to one third of pets needing help with weight management in order to remain healthy. The ideal weight of your animal will depend on its breed, age and lifestyle but as an owner, it’s usually easy to tell if your pet is over the weight it should be.

Why is my Pet Overweight?

As a pet owner, you have a responsibility to monitor your animal’s health, but this doesn’t always mean that it’s your fault your pet is overweight. Dogs are more likely than cats to have weight problems, and certain breeds are more likely to become obese than others. After your pet is neutered it is common for it to put on some additional weight, and older animals are more likely to struggle than younger ones. Animals in single-pet households also tend to be heavier – it seems a little competition between pets is healthy!

Why Does It Matter if My Pet is Overweight?

Carrying extra weight around can unfortunately affect many aspects of its health. The strain of the additional pounds puts extra pressure on joints and ligaments which causes extra wear and can make fractures and damage more likely. The risk of your pet developing a range of conditions including diabetes, heart disease and respiratory issues is significantly increased and their life expectancy will inevitably be shortened.

Take Action – Diet and Exercise

Your first step towards having a healthier pet is reassessing its diet. Speak to your vet and calculate how much energy your pet actually needs per day based on its breed, size, age, weight and usual amount of exercise. You might be surprised at how much you can safely cut down on your dog or cat’s food intake! When considering portion control, make sure your pet is still getting all of the nutrients it needs with a well-balanced meal programme. Once meals are under control – it’s time to get outside! Take your dog for longer walks and encourage it to run around as much as possible by throwing toys and balls, or playing with other friendly dogs. If you’re trying to help your cat lose weight, then it’s time to get the whole family involved by playing lots of games and turning meal times into a treasure hunt!

Get Some Specialist Help

If you want to manage your pet’s weight in the healthiest and most efficient way possible then you should come to one of Port Kennedy Vet’s free weight loss clinics. At these sessions, our vets can provide you with professional advice on sensible weight loss targets and how to achieve them. Our priority is the health of your pet which is why we offer our clients this service for free, whether your pet is already obese or simply showing signs of becoming overweight.

To arrange a visit to one of our free weight loss clinics, call the Port Kennedy Veterinary Hospital team today on 08 6555 5149 or visit our contact page for more ways to get in touch.

Top 10 Healthiest Foods for Dogs

Wellness Packages​

Dogs can eat people food too! Below we list our top ten favorite simple and healthy snacks for dogs.

Peanut Butter for Energy

Peanut butter is packed full of protein, healthy fats and vitamins so it gives your dog nutrients and helps them keep going longer! Some dogs find the texture of peanut butter odd at first, but the creamy salty taste is usually very popular once they get used to it. You can spread peanut butter on a slice of apple or carrot, or put it on a bone or chew toy so they can work on licking it off. Just make sure you’re using the healthy kind of peanut butter that doesn’t have any added sugar, or sugar substitutes such as xylitol which are dangerous for dogs.

Cheese for a Protein Boost

As long as your dog isn’t lactose intolerant, cheese can be an easy and healthy snack with lots of protein and calcium. Cottage cheese is an especially good choice for dogs as it is very high in protein, low in fat and easy to digest.

Carrots for Healthy Teeth

Raw carrots aren’t just for horses – they’re a great healthy snack for your dog too! Chewing carrots is great for your dog’s teeth and helps them to stay sharp, as well as being especially good for overweight dogs as they are so low in calories.

Yogurt for Digestive Health

This one is quite specific as what you’re looking for is plain, unsweetened, live yogurt. The live cultures and probiotics are great for your dog’s digestive health, and as with cheese, adding extra dairy to your dog’s diet means a boost of protein and calcium.

Eggs for Extra Calories

Your pup can enjoy eggs cooked or raw. Raw eggs can be given to your dog whole (preferably outside!) including the shell as this contains a lot of great nutrients such as biotin and riboflavin. If you’re not sure about raw eggs then try a hard boiled egg, peeled with no seasoning. High in protein and a good calorie boost for a growing pup!

Green Beans for Veggo Dogs

Green beans are the perfect snack for a vegetarian dog that needs to lose weight. The stringy vegetable is very high in fibre which will help your dog to feel full, but doesn’t contain many calories so will aid weight loss.

Apples for Vitamins

Chuck a chopped apple into your dog’s bowl at snack time to give it a daily dose of vitamins A and C. No need to peel it as the skin is where much of the nutrient content is stored, but avoid seeds as much as you can as these contain small quantities of cyanide.

Fish for Good Fats

Cooked salmon or sardine is especially beneficial to your dog as they contain a heap of good fats and amino acids. Make sure any fish you feed your pet is fully cooked through and remove all bones before to ensure there’s no risk of choking.

Coconut for Immune Protection

Coconut contains a fatty acid called lauric which helps the immune system and can help in weight loss. You can feed your dog coconut flesh, coconut milk or coconut oil but make sure they don’t get their paws on a whole coconut as the furry outer shell can cause problems if swallowed. Coconut has also been shown to help with bad breath and skin conditions so this one’s an all-rounder!

Peanuts for More Protein

Peanuts are one of the only nuts that your dog can eat. Macadamias, walnuts and pecans are highly toxic to dogs, whilst almonds pose a choking risk due to their shape. Peanuts on the other hand are completely safe and are a good source of protein and healthy fats. Just make sure you feed your dog shelled, unsalted peanuts to keep this snack healthy.

Port Kennedy Vets offer a Wellness Programme to help you keep your dog in top condition and living a long, healthy and happy life. Call 08 6555 5149 or visit our contact page today to find out more.