Health & Wellness
At ReTreat Doggie Daycare, we're committed to providing a safe, nurturing environment for your furry friend. We believe that preventative care is essential for maintaining your dog's overall health and well-being. By following these important health tips, you can help ensure your pet enjoys a long and happy life!
Kennel Cough
Kennel cough is a highly contagious respiratory infection that can easily spread among dogs. It is caused by a variety of viruses and bacteria and can be transmitted through airborne droplets, contact with infected dogs, or contaminated objects.
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Symptoms of Kennel Cough:
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Coughing (often described as a "honking" or "gagging" sound)
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Sneezing
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Runny nose
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Lethargy
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Loss of appetite
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Fever
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What to Do if Your Pet Has Kennel Cough:
If you suspect your dog may have kennel cough, it is important to consult your veterinarian for proper diagnosis and treatment. While most cases of kennel cough resolve on their own, some dogs may require medication to manage symptoms or address secondary infections. To help prevent the spread of kennel cough, avoid boarding or daycare facilities if your dog is exhibiting any symptoms. Keep your dog away from other dogs and clean and disinfect their belongings regularly.
Heartworm/ Parasite Prevention
Heartworms are parasitic worms that can infect dogs and cats. These worms live in the heart and lungs and can cause serious health problems, including heart failure.
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Heartworm Symptoms:
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Coughing
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Lethargy
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Difficulty breathing
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Weight loss
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Vomiting
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Heartworm/ Parasite Prevention:
The best way to protect your dog from heartworms is to administer a preventative medication as recommended by your veterinarian. Heartworm preventatives are available in pill, chewable, and topical forms. It is important to start heartworm prevention before your dog is exposed to mosquitoes, which transmit heartworm larvae. Regularly check your dog for fleas and ticks, especially after they have been outdoors.Regular testing for heartworms is also recommended, especially if your dog has traveled to areas where heartworms are prevalent.
Paw Pads, Ear, Teeth
Paw pads are the unsung heroes of a dog's anatomy, protecting their feet from rough terrain, extreme temperatures, and potential injuries. Regular care of these sensitive pads is essential for maintaining your dog's overall health and comfort.
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Why is paw pad care important?
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Injury Prevention: Paw pads can be easily cut, scraped, or punctured by sharp objects, glass, or hot surfaces. Regular inspections can help identify and address potential injuries before they become more serious.
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Comfort: Sore or damaged paw pads can cause discomfort and pain for your dog, leading to reduced mobility and a decreased quality of life.
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Protection from Harsh Conditions: Paw pads can be affected by extreme temperatures, both hot and cold. Regular care can help protect them from burns, frostbite, and other environmental hazards.
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Detection of Underlying Health Issues: Changes in paw pad appearance or behavior can sometimes indicate underlying health problems, such as allergies, infections, or autoimmune diseases.
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Ear infections are a common problem in dogs, especially those with floppy ears or breeds prone to ear issues. Regular ear cleaning is essential to prevent infections and maintain your dog's comfort.
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Why is ear cleaning important?
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Infection Prevention: Ear infections can be caused by bacteria, yeast, or parasites. Regular cleaning can help remove dirt, debris, and excess moisture, which can create a breeding ground for these organisms.
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Comfort: Ear infections can be extremely painful and uncomfortable for dogs, leading to excessive scratching, head shaking, and reduced hearing.
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Detection of Underlying Problems: Changes in ear appearance or behavior can sometimes indicate underlying health issues, such as allergies, foreign objects, or tumors.
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Dental disease is a common problem in dogs, leading to pain, discomfort, and even systemic health issues. Regular dental care is essential for maintaining your dog's oral health and overall well-being.
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Why is dental hygiene important?
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Pain and Discomfort: Dental disease can cause pain and discomfort for dogs, leading to reduced appetite, weight loss, and behavioral changes.
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Systemic Health Issues: Bacteria from dental infections can enter the bloodstream and spread to other organs, causing serious health problems such as heart disease, kidney disease, and liver disease.
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Bad Breath: Dental disease is a common cause of bad breath in dogs.
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Prevention of Future Problems: Regular dental care can help prevent more serious dental problems, such as tooth loss and abscesses.​​
At ReTreat, we prioritize your dog’s health and well-being. Our grooming services go beyond just a haircut. We meticulously clean ears to prevent infections, carefully trim and inspect paw pads to protect them from injury, and thoroughly clean teeth to promote oral health. By addressing these essential areas, we ensure your furry friend's health and wellness is our #1 priority while they are in our care.