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 Did you know that the majority of pets today are overweight? And that an overweight pet is at risk for early arthritis, respiratory problems, diabetes, and more?
Well, not to worry, if your pet is carrying some extra weight there are ways you can help them slim down and live longer, healthier lives. Start by bringing your pet in to have it weighed and assessed by a doctor. Monitor their weight loss progress by stopping in for monthly weigh-ins. This is not something your pet can do alone. Here are some ways to help your pet stay fit and active.
- Exercise your pet every day
- Limit treats and table scraps given
- Give them low calorie treats such as ice cubes and carrots
- Check with your vet about supplements or medications to help with pain or stiffness that make exercising hard
- Teach them a new trick to keep their mind and body active
- Keep their nails short so walking and running are more comfortable
- Check with your vet about the kind and amount of food you are feeding
Many prescription weight loss diets are available that contain the right amounts of all the things your pets need to lose weight the healthy way. Our veterinarians are happy to help you find the food that is best for your pet.
Your pets depend on you to keep them healthy. If you follow the advice above your pets will feel better and you will enjoy the company of happy, healthy companions. |
Teach Your Dog to Swim! |
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Swimming is a wonderful activity for dogs. It is great exercise and better on their joints than running. The majority of dogs can swim, and many of them enjoy it. But, dogs should be introduced to the water in a safe, fun way.
Never throw your dog into the water. This will could cause them to fear the water instead of enjoy it.
 Start in shallow water and make it fun. Get in the water with your dog. Use treats and toys to encourage them to move around. Let them explore, but always keep them within reach in case they need your help.
Another way to introduce your dog to the water is to go with another dog they get along with who enjoys the water. Dogs will often follow one another around in the water and become comfortable that way.
If your dog begins to paddle with their front legs, but seems to forget they have back legs, assist them by lifting their back legs and helping them float. They should quickly catch on and will begin using both sets of legs.
Swimming is great exercise, but don't let your dog overdue it. They are probably using muscles they don't use often and may tire easily.
If you are swimming in rivers or oceans be careful of strong tides and currents - they can be hazardous even to the best swimmers.
Never leave your dog unattended. No matter how skilled they are at swimming you  should always be ready to help them out of the water if needed.
Life jackets for dogs are a great way to help dogs swim and stay safe in the water. Carver Lake offers a wide selection of sizes here at the clinic.
Swimming can be a great summer activity - but make sure to approach it in a safe comfortable way that will teach your dog to enjoy the water.
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On May 4th, 2007, Carver Lake welcomed Dr. Kelly  Griffin to our team of veterinarians. We are very excited for her to join us and hope that you will take a moment to come and meet her.
Dr. Griffin earned her degree in Veterinary Medicine from the University of Minnesota - College of Veterinary Medicine. Prior to that she attended Concordia college in Moorhead and graduated with a double major in Biology and Environmental Studies.
While in Vet School Dr. Griffin was active in many of the student organizations and frequently received awards and scholarships for her hard work and dedication to the field.
When Dr. Kelly Griffin is not at Carver Lake she can be found spending time with her husband and their 4 year old daughter. The Griffin family enjoys backpacking, hiking, and playing a variety of sports together. They also own a Great Dane named Onyx, and 2 mischievous cats named Mr. Boe Jangles and Gus.
Dr. Griffin is available for appointments and looks forward to providing you and your pets with the same quality care that you have come to expect from our Carver Lake team. |
Kids and Pets |
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As summer approaches many children will be rejoicing as school lets out and summer vacation begins. Summer can be a great time for kids to bond with pets and learn to be responsible for them.
But, remember, kids are kids. They are too young to be solely responsible for pet care. It isn't fair to the pet or to the child to put kids in charge of all of the pet's care. Instead, make pet care a family activity.
Play: Kids can be great playmates for pets and vice versa.  But, it is important to teach kids and pets manners. Dogs that jump and bite - even if playfully - should not be allowed to play with children. Kids should learn that dogs are not allowed to do those things and that play should stop immediately if a dog does this.
Kids should not be allowed to play too roughly with pets. Cats can enjoy playing with kids too, but it is best to use a toy to entice play. Don't let small children carry pets - if dropped, a cat or small dog can be seriously injured.
Feeding: Kids usually love to help feed the pets, but should always be supervised. Pets can easily get an upset stomach, or worse, if fed the wrong food or the wrong amount.
Clean up: Kids can help clean the yard or the litter boxes, but should be instructed to wash their hands immediately after they finish. Many parasite can be carried on animal feces and can spread to humans without proper hygiene.
Walks: Children love to walk dogs, but should not be allowed to do this alone. Even a small dog, if motivated enough by a passing squirrel, can pull a child down the street and into traffic. Dog walks should be done as a family.
Pet Safety: Because your kid has grown up with pets they may feel comfortable approaching strange animals. Teach your kids that they should NEVER approach an animal without the owner's permission. Even if they know the pet, they should not approach it without the owner present.
Kids and pets can be great friends. By teaching kids the right way to care for pets, and always supervising, your kids can be a big help with caring for your pets this summer.
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2201 Ventura Drive