Knotty Creek Animal Rescue

Knotty Creek Animal Rescue We are a 501(c)3 nonprofit, ensuring every animal experiences love, care, and brighter tomorrows!

Understanding Dog Heat Cycles — and Why Timing Spay Surgery MattersA female dog’s heat cycle isn’t just about reproducti...
01/06/2026

Understanding Dog Heat Cycles — and Why Timing Spay Surgery Matters

A female dog’s heat cycle isn’t just about reproduction. It’s a critical developmental process that affects growth, hormones, joints, and long-term health.
What is a heat cycle?

A heat cycle is a normal hormonal phase in intact female dogs where estrogen and progesterone rise and fall. These hormones play an important role in:
• Bone growth and closure
• Joint and ligament strength
• Muscle development
• Metabolism
• Emotional and neurological maturity

Most dogs experience their first heat between 6–18 months, depending on breed and size.

Why waiting to spay can be important

S*x hormones help guide proper physical development. Removing them too early interrupts natural growth signals, particularly in large and giant breeds, where skeletal maturity takes longer.

Allowing at least one full heat cycle (or waiting until growth plates close) can support:
• Healthier joint formation
• Reduced orthopedic injury risk
• More balanced hormonal development
What can happen if a dog is spayed too early?
Research has linked early spay (before physical maturity) to increased risk of:
• Orthopedic issues
– Hip dysplasia
– Cranial cruciate ligament (ACL) tears
– Abnormal bone growth due to delayed growth-plate closure
• Urinary incontinence
– Especially common in early-spayed females
• Certain cancers
– Increased risk of osteosarcoma, hemangiosarcoma, and lymphoma in some breeds
• Hormonal imbalance effects
– Changes in metabolism
– Increased obesity risk
– Behavioral immaturity

This does not mean spaying is bad—it means timing matters.
Balancing health and responsibility

Spay timing should be an individual decision, based on:
• Breed
• Size
• Growth rate
• Lifestyle
• Veterinary guidance

***Responsible ownership isn’t about rushing procedures—it’s about making informed, evidence-based choices that support long-term health.***

The takeaway A heat cycle is not a medical emergency—it’s a developmental milestone.

Understanding it allows owners to make thoughtful decisions, not reactive ones.
Education leads to healthier dogs and better outcomes. 🐾

References (science-based, veterinary sources)
• American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) – Spay/neuter health considerations
• UC Davis School of Veterinary Medicine – Long-term effects of early spay/neuter
• Journal of Veterinary Medicine & Science – Growth plate closure and s*x hormones
• Frontiers in Veterinary Science – Cancer risk and gonadectomy timing
• Veterinary Clinics of North America: Small Animal Practice – Reproductive endocrinology

01/04/2026

In January 1973, the Endangered Species Act was signed into law, becoming one of the most impactful animal protection policies in history.

The Act was created to protect species at risk of extinction due to habitat loss, pollution, and human expansion. Since its passage, hundreds of species—including the bald eagle—have been given the opportunity to recover through science-based conservation efforts.

The lesson is simple and still relevant today: prevention works best before a crisis.

Whether protecting wildlife or caring for animals in our homes, early action and informed decisions lead to better outcomes.

History shows us what’s possible when education comes first.

01/03/2026

Very pregnant momma, hoping to find owner before she gives birth.

Keizer

Good job pup! 🐾🐕💕
01/03/2026

Good job pup! 🐾🐕💕

THC Is NOT Safe for Dogs — and It Can Cause Dangerous Overheating 🚨As cannabis becomes more common in households, accide...
01/02/2026

THC Is NOT Safe for Dogs — and It Can Cause Dangerous Overheating 🚨
As cannabis becomes more common in households, accidental exposure in pets is increasing. While THC may be tolerated by humans, dogs process it very differently—and the effects can be serious.
What happens when a dog is exposed to THC?
Dogs have a much higher concentration of cannabinoid receptors in the brain than humans. This means THC has a stronger and longer-lasting effect, even at small doses.
One of the biggest dangers: body temperature dysregulation
THC interferes with a dog’s ability to regulate body temperature, which can lead to:
• Hyperthermia (dangerous overheating)
• Excessive panting or drooling
• Increased heart rate
• Tremors or uncoordinated movement
Dogs do not sweat like humans. When their temperature rises and their nervous system is impaired, they can overheat quickly, especially in warm environments or when stressed.
Other common signs of THC toxicity in dogs
• Lethargy or extreme sedation
• Disorientation or “drunken” walking
• Vomiting
• Urinary incontinence
• Anxiety or agitation
Symptoms can appear 30 minutes to several hours after exposure and may last 12–72 hours, depending on the dose and form.
Edibles are especially dangerous
THC edibles often contain:
• High THC concentrations
• Chocolate, xylitol, or other toxic ingredients
• Delayed onset that leads to higher accidental dosing
This combination significantly increases risk.
Important to know
• CBD ≠ THC (they are not the same compound)
• “Natural” does not mean safe for dogs
• Home remedies are not appropriate treatment
• Prompt veterinary care greatly improves outcomes
The takeaway
THC exposure in dogs is not benign and not comparable to humans. Overheating and neurologic effects are real risks, even with small amounts.
If exposure is suspected, contact a veterinarian or pet poison hotline immediately.
Education prevents emergencies—and keeps pets safe. 🐾
References (credible, veterinary-based)
• ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center – Ma*****na toxicity in pets
• Pet Poison Helpline – THC poisoning in dogs
• FDA (U.S.) – Cannabis and animals safety guidance
• Veterinary Emergency & Critical Care Society (VECCS) – Cannabinoid toxicity cases
• Journal of Veterinary Emergency and Critical Care – THC toxicosis in dogs

🩺 Are You Keeping Up With Your Pet’s Health Correctly?Preventative care isn’t about doing everything—it’s about doing th...
12/31/2025

🩺 Are You Keeping Up With Your Pet’s Health Correctly?
Preventative care isn’t about doing everything—it’s about doing the right things, consistently. Here are four areas every pet owner should be actively managing:
🐜 Flea & Tick Prevention
Fleas and ticks aren’t just a seasonal nuisance. They can transmit disease, cause skin infections, and trigger anemia—especially in young or senior animals. Consistent, vet-approved prevention is key, even when pests aren’t visible.
🪱 Deworming: How Often Is Enough?
Routine deworming is important—but timing matters. Puppies, kittens, and adult pets all have different needs based on age, lifestyle, and exposure. Not all parasites are treated by the same products, which is why one-size-fits-all schedules often fall short.
🫀 Heartworm Prevention
Heartworm disease is preventable—and once established, it’s expensive and dangerous to treat. Monthly prevention and appropriate testing protect pets from a parasite that can quietly cause serious heart and lung damage long before symptoms appear.
🥩 Proper Nutrition & Absorption
Nutrition isn’t just about what goes into the bowl—it’s about what the body can actually use. Poor gut health, parasites, or imbalanced diets can lead to deficiencies even in pets that eat well. Quality ingredients, correct portions, and gut support all matter.
The takeaway:
Preventative care works best when it’s proactive, not reactive. Small, routine steps taken consistently can prevent major health issues down the road.
Healthy pets don’t happen by accident—they’re supported intentionally. 🐾

12/30/2025

Adopted
Found at Safeway in Albany. If you have any information please contact us at 541-967-3925. Thank you

12/30/2025

Adopted :)
Found on Crawfordsville Drive Sweet Home. If you have any information please contact us at 541-967-3925 Thank you!

🚨 Coccidia: The Parasite Most New Puppy & Kitten Owners Aren’t Told About 🚨Coccidia is one of the most common intestinal...
12/30/2025

🚨 Coccidia: The Parasite Most New Puppy & Kitten Owners Aren’t Told About 🚨

Coccidia is one of the most common intestinal parasites seen in puppies and kittens—yet it’s also one of the most misunderstood.

What exactly is coccidia?

Coccidia are single-celled protozoa (not worms) that live in the intestinal tract. Because they aren’t worms, standard dewormers do not eliminate them.

Young animals are most affected because:

• Their immune systems are still developing
• Stress reduces gut immunity
• Exposure often happens early in life

How do animals get it?

Coccidia is spread through microscopic oocysts in the environment:

• Contaminated surfaces or soil
• Shared bowls, bedding, or litter areas
• Grooming after contact with contaminated areas
Many puppies and kittens are exposed before they ever show symptoms.

Why do symptoms come and go?
The parasite load can fluctuate.

• Mild infections may cause soft stools only during stress
• Symptoms often worsen after transport, rehoming, or illness
• Animals may still eat, play, and appear “fine”
This is why it’s frequently mistaken for stress diarrhea or diet issues.
Common signs to watch for
• Loose or watery stools
• Mucus in stool
• Poor weight gain or stalled growth
• Dehydration in more severe cases

In young animals, dehydration can escalate quickly.
Why antibiotics usually don’t help
Antibiotics treat bacteria, not protozoa.
While they may temporarily firm stool by reducing inflammation, they do not address the underlying cause and can further disrupt the gut microbiome.

Why testing can miss it
• Oocysts shed intermittently
• Single fecals may come back negative
• Multiple tests or specific protozoal screening may be needed

A negative test does not always rule it out.
Treatment & recovery (high level)
Treatment targets the parasite while allowing the immune system to catch up. Supportive care—hydration, nutrition, and gut support—plays a major role in recovery.
The key takeaway
Recurring diarrhea isn’t “normal.”
It’s communication.

Understanding why it’s happening allows animals to feel better faster and prevents prolonged discomfort.
Education empowers better outcomes—for animals and the people who care for them. 🐾

Merry Christmas
12/25/2025

Merry Christmas

Address

Riggs Hill Rd
Sweet Home, OR
97386

Opening Hours

Monday 9am - 3pm
Tuesday 9am - 3pm
Wednesday 9am - 3pm
Thursday 9am - 3pm
Sunday 10am - 3pm

Telephone

+15416660076

Website

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