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Articles

Diet & Nutrition

  • Food allergies can be problematic for many dogs, especially after years on the same diet. Clinical signs may manifest as gastrointestinal or skin problems. Some animal proteins are the most common causes and strict avoidance is the best way to treat affected dogs. An eight to twelve-week elimination diet trial on a special veterinary diet is the only definitive method to diagnose a food allergy and, in some cases, the veterinary diet may need to be continued long-term.

  • Food intolerance covers a large number of adverse food reactions that do not involve the immune system, and generally cause digestive issues. This handout outlines the various types of food reactions, and how you can help your pet.

  • It is suggested that a selection of various fruits and vegetables be fed to your bird every day. A good source of carbohydrates, vitamins and minerals, fresh produce should comprise no more than 20%-40% of the diet. Bright yellow, red, and orange vegetables and fruits all contain a great deal of vitamin A, which is a critical nutrient in a birds' diet.

  • This handout discusses the causes and potential treatments for excess gas (flatulence) in dogs. Factors such as diet, speed of eating, exercise, and foods to avoid are outlined.

  • A gastrostomy (G-) tube is a small rubber or silicone tube that passes directly into the stomach through the cat’s skin and abdominal wall. It allows you to deliver food, water, and medications directly into the stomach. This article outlines how to use and maintain a G-tube for your cat.

  • A gastrostomy (G-) tube is a small rubber or silicone tube that passes directly into the stomach through the dog’s skin and abdominal wall. It allows you to deliver food, water, and medications directly into the stomach. This article outlines how to use and maintain a G-tube for your dog.

  • Bringing home a new puppy is an exciting time with plenty to consider. In this handout you will find general care advice for your puppy, including nutrition, play, chewing behavior, housetraining, socialization, nail trimming, and basic first aid.

  • Cats like to graze on grass, and eating grass, in moderation, benefits even well-fed cats. Grass provides roughage that aids digestion and elimination. Cats that eat grass routinely may have more regular gastrointestinal tracts, fewer hair balls, and less constipation.

  • Hand-raised babies usually make better pets, as they have been completely socialized with humans. Hand-feeding is a job best left for the experienced bird breeder or aviculturist. If you are considering hand-feeding a baby bird, you should contact your local bird breeder or avian veterinarian for help. This article provides general guidelines and best practices.

  • Guinea pigs can be hardy and easy to care for when provided an appropriate environment for their unique needs. Like all animals, guinea pigs are susceptible to certain problems and diseases. This handout outlines the diagnosis, treatment, and prognosis for some of the more common health problems of guinea pigs.