You should bring your pet to the veterinarian anytime you notice changes in their behavior, appetite, energy level, or physical condition. Pets are very good at hiding illness, so even subtle changes can be important. Common reasons for a visit include vomiting, diarrhea, limping, coughing, skin problems, changes in drinking or urination, or if your pet simply seems “not like themselves.”

When in doubt, it is always better to have your pet evaluated early. Many medical conditions are easier and less expensive to treat when they are detected in the early stages.

Dental disease is one of the most common medical conditions seen in dogs and cats, affecting the majority of pets by the age of three. Plaque and tartar buildup on the teeth lead to gum inflammation, infection, and eventually tooth loss if left untreated.

Professional dental cleanings performed under anesthesia allow us to thoroughly clean both the visible surfaces of the teeth and the areas below the gumline where most dental disease develops. Maintaining good dental health helps prevent pain, infection, and bacteria that can spread to vital organs such as the heart and kidneys.

You should seek immediate veterinary attention if your pet experiences any of the following:

• Difficulty breathing or open-mouth breathing
• Collapse or severe weakness
• Seizures
• Severe trauma (such as being hit by a car)
• Persistent vomiting or diarrhea
• Bloated or painful abdomen
• Ingestion of toxins or foreign objects
• Pale gums or signs of severe pain

If you are ever unsure whether something is an emergency, it is always safest to contact your veterinarian or an emergency clinic right away for guidance.

Many dogs occasionally eat grass, and in most cases this is normal behavior. Some dogs simply enjoy the taste or texture, while others may eat grass when they have mild stomach upset. Most dogs that eat grass do not become sick afterward.

However, if your dog is eating grass frequently and vomiting regularly, it may indicate gastrointestinal irritation or another underlying issue. If the behavior becomes persistent, a veterinary examination is recommended.

Excessive scratching, licking, or chewing is often a sign of allergies, parasites, or skin infections. Fleas are a common cause of itching, but many pets also develop environmental allergies to things like pollen, grasses, or dust mites.

Secondary bacterial or yeast infections can develop as a result of chronic skin irritation. A veterinary examination can help identify the underlying cause and provide treatment that brings relief to your pet.

Persistent bad breath is often a sign of dental disease. Plaque and tartar buildup allow bacteria to accumulate under the gumline, which leads to gum inflammation and infection. Over time, dental disease can cause pain, tooth loss, and bacteria that may affect the heart, kidneys, and other organs.

Routine dental care, including professional cleanings and home dental hygiene, plays an important role in maintaining your pet’s overall health.

A healthy pet should have a visible waist when viewed from above, and you should be able to feel the ribs without excessive fat covering them. Obesity is very common in pets and increases the risk of conditions such as arthritis, diabetes, heart disease, and reduced lifespan.

Your veterinarian can help determine your pet’s ideal body condition and develop a safe nutrition and exercise plan if needed.

Occasional vomiting can happen with minor stomach upset, but repeated vomiting, lethargy, abdominal pain, or inability to keep water down should be evaluated by a veterinarian.

Vomiting can be caused by dietary indiscretion, infection, toxins, pancreatitis, intestinal blockage, or systemic disease. If vomiting persists for more than 24 hours, veterinary care should be sought promptly.

Minor strains can sometimes improve with rest, but persistent limping may indicate ligament injury, arthritis, fractures, or joint disease. If the limp lasts more than 24 hours or worsens, a veterinary examination is recommended.

Lethargy or decreased activity can be an early sign of many medical conditions including infection, pain, heart disease, anemia, or metabolic disorders. If your pet appears unusually tired for more than a day or two, veterinary evaluation is recommended.