Author: Katie Koschalk

If you’ve been exploring ways to strengthen your dog’s immune system, improve their gut health, or help with allergy symptoms, you might’ve stumbled across a supplement called colostrum for dogs.   Though best known as the first milk newborn mammals receive from their mothers, colostrum is now gaining attention in the pet wellness world for its potential benefits well beyond the newborn stage.   But what exactly is colostrum, and why are pet parents adding it to their pup’s routine? Let’s take a closer look at what it is, how it works, and the benefits it may offer your pup.   Always speak to your veterinarian before giving your dog supplements. 

While plums are a good source of fiber, antioxidants, and vitamins, there are a few reasons why dogs should steer clear of plums.,Jump to section Why Are Plums Bad for Dogs? Uh Oh, My Dog Ate a Plum–What Do I Do? Are Plums as Dangerous as Grapes and Raisins for Dogs? How Do I Prevent My Dog from Eating Plums? FAQs About Dogs and Plums

Flea season can differ from one state to another due to the diverse climates across the United States. However, it’s best to keep your pet on a year-round flea preventative, as recommended by your veterinarian. This is because fleas can survive a harsh winter by hiding in areas protected from the cold, such as your home, barn, garage or crawl space. Still, it’s helpful to know when fleas are most prevalent in your area. Find out when flea season is in your state, according to Dr. Sara Ochoa, DVM, a veterinarian at Animal Hospital of West Monroe in West Monroe, Louisiana, and the co-founder of How to Pets; and Dr. Jamie Whittenburg, DVM, owner and director of Kingsgate Animal Hospital in Lubbock, Texas.,Jump to section When Is Flea Season in Your State? My Pet Has Fleas—What Do I Do? How To Protect Your Dog Against Fleas How To Protect Your Cat Against Fleas

“Inflammatory bowel disease is a chronic condition or syndrome where there is a specific inflammatory reaction to irritation of the gastrointestinal tract,” says Jessica Apted, DVM, regional medical director for Sploot Veterinary Care’s practices in the Denver area. While the exact cause of the irritation is often unclear, inflammatory cells flock to the affected areas, triggering an allergic-like response in the gastrointestinal (GI) tract. Any part of the GI tract can be affected, but the stomach and intestines are the most common targets, Dr. Apted says. The GI tract normally allows for smooth digestion and absorption of nutrients, but in IBD, it becomes thickened and swollen due to the accumulation of inflammatory cells. This disrupts the dog’s ability to properly digest food and absorb nutrients, Dr. Apted explains. Though IBD is usually not life-threatening, if left untreated, it can lead to severe dehydration, weight loss, malnutrition, and even blood clots, which can be fatal. To prevent these complications, early intervention and regular monitoring are key.,Jump to section What Is Inflammatory Bowel Disease in Dogs? What Are the Symptoms of Inflammatory Bowel Disease in Dogs? What Causes Inflammatory Bowel Disease in Dogs? How Do Vets Diagnose Inflammatory Bowel Disease in Dogs? How Do Vets Treat Inflammatory Bowel Disease in Dogs? How Do I Prevent My Dog From Getting Inflammatory Bowel Disease? FAQs About Inflammatory Bowel Disease in Dogs

Roundworms are one of the most common intestinal parasites found in dogs. These worms are long and white and resemble spaghetti (or, if you’re into more obscure culinary analogies, mung bean sprouts).   Left untreated, roundworms in dogs can cause uncomfortable symptoms and even serious health issues. Fortunately, these worms are usually easy to treat, but spotting the signs early can be a little tricky.   Here’s everything you need to know about these troublesome parasites, including how they affect your dog, the signs to look out for, and how they’re treated.