Having a new puppy in your household is an exciting and exhausting time. Play biting is an aggravating occurrence that many of our new puppy owners ask about. Play biting occurs because that is how puppies play with their littermates and other dogs. They may be confused that what seems so natural to them is something of which we disapprove.

This is not something where the training is quick and easy. Persistence and patience are needed. We will give you some steps to try.

Teaching tug to puppies allows a way to exercise your pup while you sit on the couch!     

First, get a rope toy or other long safe toy that your pup may like. You should be able to hold the toy about a foot away from your pup’s mouth.

Next, show the pup the toy as if it is the most exciting thing in the world. Shake it gently, say take it, and act like you have the best toy in the world. Offer the pup the toy and gently tug it.

Top 3 Easter Hazards for your Pets

1. Chocolate

Chocolate is one of the more frequent reasons for owners to call with concern about a pet’s ingestion. We can understand why-chocolate, unlike some things pets eat, tastes good!

The darker the chocolate and the larger the amount eaten, the more likely your pet will experience problems.     

Fast Facts  

A baby is going to join your household. What an exciting time this is for you. Have you considered this from your dog’s point of view? His life is going to be disrupted, too, and he is not looking at videos, researching the internet, reading about new babies, or talking to his friends about what is going to happen.  Let’s discuss a few things you need to be working on now.

Onion and Garlic Poisoning

Lil Bit, a 2 year old Yorkie and Chihuahua mix, came to Chateau Veterinary Hospital because his dad noticed that he seemed listless. He no longer played or jumped on the furniture.   

We are so excited to meet your dog or cat, puppy or kitten and would like to make their first visit as happy as possible. So let’s discuss what we can do together.

First, gather any records you may have for your pet, any medications your pet takes, and note exactly what foods and treats your pet routinely eats (a photo on your phone is great for this.) Bring as much of this as you can with you. Don’t worry if that is not possible, we will figure it out.

Oh No! My dog or cat has a lump or bump on his/her skin!!

If you find a lump or bump on your pet’s skin, try not to panic. The lump may be from infection (like a cat bite abscess) or a tumor. Tumors are then determined to be either cancer or not cancer.