North Carolina Veterinary Medical Association

12/24/2024

The holidays can be overwhelming for your pets with all the noise and unfamiliar faces.

Create a quiet, safe space for them by setting up a bed or crate in a calm room. Include familiar toys and treats, and consider using calming music or a white noise machine to help them relax. A peaceful retreat will help your pet manage the holiday chaos and enjoy the season in their own way.

12/24/2024

Not all animals are built to handle cold weather on their own. Hairless and short-haired pets, as well as some livestock, may need extra layers during winter to stay warm and healthy.

-Household pets: Breeds like hairless cats or small dogs with thin coats can't retain body heat effectively. A cozy sweater or jacket can help them stay comfortable outdoors.

-Livestock: Animals like goats and horses (especially older ones) may benefit from well-fitted blankets, especially during freezing temperatures or if they're sick or underweight.

Proper cold-weather protection helps prevent stress, illness, and weight loss, keeping animals healthy and happy all season long!

12/21/2024

As temperatures drop, keeping water from freezing is essential for livestock.

Consider using heated water buckets or automatic waterers designed for winter use. If you don't have heated options, check water dishes regularly and replace frozen water several times a day. Adding a small floating object (like a rubber ball) in the water can help keep it from freezing as quickly.

12/20/2024

Including your pet in family portraits is a wonderful way to capture special memories, but it requires some planning to make sure everyone looks their best—and stays safe! Here are some tips for including your pet in family photos:

1. Be Patient: Animals may take longer to settle into a pose, so give them time and keep the session calm.
2. Choose the Right Setting: Make sure the environment is safe and comfortable for your pet. For indoor shoots, use soft lighting and keep distractions to a minimum.
3. Use Treats and Toys: For dogs and cats, have treats or toys handy to get their attention and keep them engaged.
4. Safety First: Ensure pets are securely positioned, especially in group photos. Avoid forcing pets into poses that could stress them out.
5. Consider Species Needs: For small animals or birds, consider a safe, quiet space where they feel secure, like a favorite perch or bedding.

Capturing the perfect family portrait with your pet takes some extra effort, but the results are always worth it!

12/20/2024

News from the North Pole! After a thorough check-up by American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) President Dr. Sandra Faeh, State Veterinarian Mike Martin, has cleared Santa and his reindeer to fly into North Carolina this holiday season!

We are proud of the important role veterinarians play in keeping North Carolina's animals and livestock safe year-round. Thanks to their dedication, Santa’s reindeer are in tip-top shape for their journey!

Children around the world received some good news today, with officials from the North Pole confirming that Dasher, Dancer, Prancer and the rest of Santa’s reindeer have been approved for their Christmas Eve flight following a health checkup from Santa’s veterinarian.

12/18/2024

Winter can be tough on livestock, as they burn more calories trying to stay warm. Keeping their body weight in a healthy range is crucial to keep them healthy and comfortable all season.

Here are some tips to help:
-Provide Quality Feed: Offer nutrient-dense feed to meet increased calorie needs.
-Ensure Constant Access to Water: Dehydration can lower feed intake; use heated waterers to prevent freezing.
-Offer Windbreaks and Shelter: Protect animals from wind and cold to reduce energy loss.
-Monitor Body Condition Regularly: Adjust feeding plans as needed to prevent weight loss.

A well-fed, well-protected herd is a healthy one all season long.

12/17/2024

Winter weather and predators can be tough on your flock, so it's important to take extra precautions to keep your chickens safe.

Start by securing your coop with strong, predator-proof fencing—ensure there are no gaps or weak spots where animals can enter. Use hardware cloth instead of chicken wire for extra protection.

For cold weather, insulate the coop to keep your chickens warm, and add bedding to create a cozy space. Make sure the coop is well-ventilated to prevent humidity buildup while still retaining warmth.

12/14/2024

As you shop for your pet this holiday season, be mindful of certain toys that can pose a risk to their health.

Rawhides, rope toys, and small chewables can be harmful if ingested or cause choking hazards. Rawhides, in particular, can lead to digestive issues or blockages, while frayed rope toys can be a choking risk or cause intestinal blockages. Instead, opt for safer alternatives like durable rubber chew toys, nylon bones, or interactive puzzle feeders that are both engaging and safe.

12/13/2024

The holidays bring festive fun, but they can also pose risks for curious pets. To prevent accidents, make sure your tree, lights, and ornaments are out of reach.

Consider securing your tree to prevent tipping, and use pet-safe decorations that won't break if chewed. Avoid tinsel or small decorations that can be ingested, and be mindful of electrical cords and lights.

Looking for more ways to keep your pet safe this year? Check out this article https://news.cvm.ncsu.edu/holidays-and-pets-how-to-keep-them-safe-this-season/

11/29/2024

As the holiday season approaches, many families consider bringing a new pet into their home. While the idea of surprising someone with a pet can be tempting, it’s essential to think carefully before making this decision. Pets are a long-term commitment and require careful consideration as to how they fit with your lifestyle and financial expectations.

Instead of gifting a pet, consider giving a thoughtful gift related to their love for animals, such as a donation to a local shelter or a gift certificate for a future adoption when the time is right.

11/28/2024

Happy Thanksgiving! We hope you have a wonderful holiday with family and friends, but remember not to feed pets table scraps. Inform family members to resist the puppy dog eyes! Many Thanksgiving foods can be toxic to pets.

11/26/2024

If you're starting your Thanksgiving prep today, you might have a few four-legged friends underfoot hoping you drop a scrap for them. It's important to know which foods are and are not safe for pets. Check out this list of Thanksgiving foods that pets should never eat.

11/24/2024

Let's talk kibble toppers! Looking to add a little extra love to your pup’s meals? Kibble toppers are a fantastic way to boost flavor and nutrition! Whether it’s savory bone broth, a sprinkle of cheese, or a dollop of yogurt, these tasty additions can make mealtime even more exciting and nutritious for your pets.

11/20/2024

Don’t pet your fish! Fish are incredibly fragile, and petting or grabbing them can easily damage their gills or fins. Additionally, fish are coated in a slime layer that serves as a barrier against bacteria, making them more susceptible to infection and disease if it gets rubbed off.

11/16/2024

Today is National Feral Cat Day! Today, we recognize the importance of spaying and neutering cats to help control the feral cat populations humanely. By fixing your cats, you're not only preventing unwanted litters but also contributing to healthier, more stable communities for both pets and wildlife.

11/15/2024

Is it bath time for your hamster? While you can use water, sand baths are actually a great alternative! Many hamsters love to dig and roll in sand, which helps keep their fur clean and free of excess oil. Just fill a shallow dish with chinchilla sand and let them roll around.

If you do choose to bathe with water, use lukewarm water in a shallow dish, making sure it’s just enough to wet their fur without submerging them. Skip the soap—hamsters have sensitive skin, so a damp cloth works best for cleaning.

11/13/2024

Ever wonder why dogs eat grass? Some dogs munch on it to help settle their stomachs or induce vomiting when they're feeling unwell. Others might be seeking extra fiber or nutrients that their diet lacks. And sometimes, it’s just boredom or curiosity!

https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/advice/why-does-my-dog-eat-grass/

11/10/2024

Thanksgiving is approaching, have you made your travel plans? How about arrangements for your pets? Make a plan to ensure both you and your pet can have a relaxing and safe holiday.