How to Know When It’s Time to Call a Dog Vet

It can be hard to determine whether or not to call a vet when your dog seems sick. After all, you don’t call your doctor every time you sneeze. Likewise, you probably don’t want to call your vet every time you dog looks a little less energetic. These guidelines will help you determine when it’s time to call your dog vet in Colorado Springs.

If Your Dog Has Eaten a Toxin

Most bottles of toxins will say to call a doctor if you consume them. If your dog gets into human medications, chocolate, chewing gum, Tylenol, Ibuprofen, etc call your vet immediately to talk about options to get the poison out of his system.

Sudden Weight Gain or Weight Loss

A little fluctuation in weight is normal for dogs. However, if you dog suddenly loses or gains weight, your vet needs to know. This could be a symptom of serious illness.

Sudden Change in Temperament

Dogs don’t generally go through personality changes without a good reason. If your dog goes from sweet and cuddly to angry and vicious, your vet will need to figure out what is causing this shift in behavior.

Unexplained Lumps or Bumps

It’s best to figure out what is causing lumps rather than letting them be. They could be something very simple or they could be the cause of something more serious. Your best bet is to check with your vet.

Bad Breath or Yellow Teeth

No one expects a dog’s breath to smell minty fresh. But your dog’s dental health is indicative of their overall health. Foul breath and bad teeth may not be an emergency, but they are symptoms of health issues.

Sudden Change in Appetite or Thirst

Changes in food and water consumption indicate changes in health. If this change lasts for more than 24 hours, get in touch with your vet.

Fight with a Wild Animal

You never know what types of illnesses a wild animal might carry. Even if you don’t see any open wounds, your dog may have scratch marks exposing him to illness or infection. If this happens, call your dog vet in Colorado Springs to find out what illnesses are common in this area.

Abdominal Swelling or Discomfort

This should be addressed immediately as it could be a symptom of a serious health condition.

Sudden Vision Loss

Like a human, a dog’s eyesight can deteriorate over time. If a change in vision happens suddenly, it’s best to make sure there isn’t a serious illness causing rapid vision loss.

If your dog has any of these symptoms, don’t hesitate to call your dog vet in Colorado Springs right away. Dr. Robin offers in-home care for your pets and is prepared to answer your questions. Contact Dr. Robin to set up an appointment.

6 Important Questions To Ask Your Vet

You want your pet to live and thrive as long as possible. Finding a good source for veterinary medicine in Colorado Springs is important for your pet’s health. Make the most of your visits with your vet by asking good questions.

1. Is My Pet at a Healthy Weight?

Obesity is not just a human problem. Animals can also become obese, especially if they are living as domestic pets. Added weight can lead to a whole host of health issues including arthritis and diabetes. Your vet can help you monitor your pet’s weight and provide a weight loss plan if needed.

2. Are There Certain Foods I Should be Feeding My Pet?

We all know that diet and nutrition are important for humans, but we don’t always make the same assumption for pets. When you see a dog eating from the trash and surviving, you easily assume that they can survive anything.

Surviving is not thriving and food choice is important for animals too. Talk to your vet about proper nutrition for your pet’s age, lifestyle, and health history.

3. Does My Pet have the Proper Vaccines?

Not all vaccines are given on the same time table. Some are given yearly and others less frequently. Talk to your vet about your pet’s current vaccine status.

If you didn’t give your pet all the recommended vaccines, you may need to reconsider this decision if life circumstances change. For example, if you have moved or started sending your pet to an animal hotel, they may be exposed to different diseases and need different vaccines. Your vet can walk you through these decisions.

4. How Do You Manage Fleas, Ticks, or Heartworms?

These are the common cold of the animal kingdom. Taking a few measures to prevent these annoyances is much easier than dealing with treatment later. For heartworms, it can be as simple as a once-a-month parasite protection.

5. How Often Does My Pet Need Wellness Visits?

Remember that pets age faster than humans. If you have for a checkup once each year, your pet may need to be seen more often because they are aging faster. Ask your vet how often your pet needs seen for things like booster shots, teeth exams, and wellness checkups.

6. Should I Brush My Pet’s Teeth?

Does your pet have bad breath? That’s not just part of being an animal. It can be a symptom of dental or gum disease. Talk to your vet about your pet’s dental health. You may need to schedule a dental exam every couple of years to prevent dental diseases.

Dr. Robin’s Housecall Veterinary Services is an excellent source for veterinary medicine in Colorado Springs. Dr. Robin can answer your questions and provide excellent care for your pet. Contact Dr. Robin today to schedule an appointment.

6 Advantages To Choosing Mobile Vet Services

You love your pet and will go to great lengths to make sure they’re happy and healthy. Annual check-ups with a vet are important for long-term health for your cat or dog, but getting your pet to the vet can sometimes be a struggle. It requires scheduling an appointment, loading your pet in the car (which can be difficult for some pets), sitting in a stale office, and waiting your turn amongst other sick animals.

Thankfully, there’s another way. With mobile vet service in Colorado Springs, you get to skip the hassle and take great care for your pet the easy way. Here are six reasons why mobile vet services will make your life easier.

Convenience

Avoid loading your pet in the car and driving across town to see the vet. Mobile vet services offer you the convenience of seeing a vet in the comfort of your own home. Save yourself time and hassle by having a vet come to you.

Time With Vet

Appointments in a typical veterinarian office are scheduled back to back. They want to get you in and get you out. This doesn’t always allow for time to ask questions and get answers. When a mobile vet comes to your home, you have more time for a thorough review and can ask as many questions as you need.

Comfort For Your Pet

Some pets love a car ride while it produces anxiety and fear in others. Not to mention, taking them into a clinic with bright lights and other loud pets. It’s sure to cause discomfort in most pets.

When a vet comes to your home, they’re seen in an environment that’s comfortable and familiar. When your pet experiences less anxiety and discomfort, so will you.

Flexibility

When you work with a mobile vet, you have more options. Enjoy the flexibility of being in your home and not feeling like a number in a clinic. You’ll know your pet is receiving expert, professional care.

Personalized Service

When a mobile vet comes to your home, you and your pet are their only priority. You receive personalized service and your pet receives the best care possible. You’ll notice the difference when you use mobile vet services.

Easy Annual Check-ups

Annual wellness check-ups for your cat or dog have never been so easy. Your mobile vet will bring everything they need to perform wellness checks, exams, vaccines, blood tests, or regular maintenance services. You’ll be amazed at the professional service delivered right in your home. With annual check-ups and care, your pet will be happy and healthy!

Don’t wait. Schedule an appointment for mobile vet service in Colorado Springs for your cat or dog with Dr. Robin. She offers the best in-home veterinarian care for your pet while answering all your questions. You’ll love the convenience and personalized service you receive.

How To Choose The Right Pet For You

Though you have the capacity to love any pet, different types of pets have different needs. It’s best to consider your current situation and the needs of a pet before making a decision. Some pets need more attention and annual check-ups with a Colorado Springs mobile vet for preventative care. Consider a cat or dog and learn which is better for you and your family.

Curious Kittens or Cats

Cats are independent creatures and survive well at home alone over long periods of time with proper food, water, and attention. Though they love play time and attention from their owners, they require less personal time and are ideal for busy working professionals or busy families.

To avoid claw marks on furniture, leave a scratching post and toys for your cat to entertain themselves. Though most cats are friendly, be careful with small children as cats are known to claw or bite when feeling attacked. Talk to small children about how to treat cats and watch for negative interactions.

Playful Puppies or Dogs

Dogs are playful companions who become loyal members of the family. Compared to cats, puppies and dogs require more work and personal attention. They need to be trained, walked daily, cleaned up after, and need appointments with a vet for health check-ups or other issues.

If you have a family, the timing of when you get a puppy can play an important role. Avoid training a puppy when welcoming a new baby into your home (two transitions at once can be difficult!) and make sure your schedule allows the time needed to care for a new furry family member.

When choosing a new pet for your home, think about your lifestyle and the specific needs of a pet before making your decision. For preventative care for your cats and dogs, contact Dr. Robin, your local Colorado Springs mobile vet. In-home vet services will keep your pet happy, healthy, and strong!

6 Warning Signs Your Dog Should See A Vet

You may be able to tell if something is wrong when your dog exhibits unfamiliar behaviors, but sometimes it can be challenging to know when to wait and when to see a mobile dog vet in Colorado Springs. How do you know when symptoms or behaviors require medical attention?

Since dogs are unable to communicate, they rely on their humans to feed them, care for them, and seek medical treatment when they need it. Become familiar with these warning signs so you know when you should call your vet. Please keep in mind this is not an exhaustive list. Additional symptoms may require assistance from your vet.

Tired or Loss of Energy

If your dog is no longer interested in going on walks or enjoying playful activities, this can be a sign something is wrong. Some dogs experience muscle fatigue or soreness, but this should not last for more than a day or two. During the summer months, dogs may also conserve energy due to the heat. However, if you dog remains unreasonably sluggish for two or more days, contact your mobile vet immediately. There could be something wrong.

Lack of Appetite

Most healthy dogs are excited for meal time. They’ll eat their own food and the food of anyone else who leaves it within reach. If your dog skips a meal or two, it’s no cause for concern. Two or more days without eating is a warning sign to should call your vet for an examination.

Exposure to Toxins

If you discover your dog has gotten into cleaning supplies, rat bait, fertilizers, or other household chemicals, consult your mobile vet immediately. They’ll advise if you should induce vomiting or monitor them at home. Keep hydrogen peroxide available in case you need to induce vomiting.

Consistent Vomiting or Diarrhea

Occasional vomiting or diarrhea can be common in dogs. It becomes an issue when it isn’t resolved within 24 hours. Call your vet for symptoms lasting more than 24 hours or if blood is present in their vomit or stool.

Seizures

Seizures can be common in some dogs but require immediate care for dogs who have never experienced one. Warning signs include tremors, uncontrolled shaking, blacking out, and loss of bladder or bowel control. If your dog exhibits signs of a seizure, consult your vet immediately. Common seizures result from epilepsy, but other issues may exist.

Red Eyes, Tearing, and Discharge

Symptoms such as red eyes, tearing, or discharge can be advanced warnings for ocular diseases. These issues can escalate into blindness or loss of an eye if not immediately treated. Avoid worse issues by contacting your mobile vet for an examination.

At the first sign your dog portrays unusual symptoms, contact your mobile dog vet in Colorado Springs. By getting your dog help early, you’ll avoid issues getting worse and restore your pet to health. Dr. Robin is the local dog vet in Colorado Springs who is mobilized to care for your dog in the comfort of your home. Contact Dr. Robin to schedule an appointment for your pet.

Top 4 Reasons To Call Your Local Housecall Vet Services

Housecall vet services in Colorado Springs work similar to going to a regular vet, except you don’t have to leave the comfort of your own home! When you call a housecall vet in Colorado Springs, you get to avoid loading your pet in the car, driving across town, and experiencing long wait times in a waiting room surrounded by other sick pets.

Pets love it because they’re cared for in an environment that’s comfortable for them. Their humans love it because they get extra time with the vet to ask questions. If you’re wondering when you should call a housecall vet in Colorado Springs, consider these top four reasons.

1. Vaccines For Your Pets

If your pet needs vaccines, avoid taking them into a clinic where they could be exposed to airborne illnesses and call a housecall vet instead. Housecall vets can administer vaccines at your home so you can avoid your pet coming in contact with sick or unvaccinated pets.

2. Regular Exams

Since pets aren’t able to tell us when something is wrong, they rely on us to get them the help they need. Pets should have regular examinations by a veterinarian to check their overall health and well-being each year.

Exams check the condition of your pet’s eyes, ears, nose, mouth, heart, lungs, legs, joints, skin, and coat. If abnormalities, masses, unusual discharge of the eyes or nose, or heart murmurs exist, your vet will recommend treatments to restore your pet to full health.

3. Wound Care or Minor Surgery

If your pet is injured or needs minor surgery, a housecall vet can offer wound cleaning, bandaging, and minor surgeries from the comfort of your home. This includes laceration repair and removal of skin masses such as warts, cysts, lumps, or lipomas with a local block or sedation available.

Strange locations and bright lights in veterinarian offices can heighten anxiety levels in pets. By calling a housecall vet to come to your home to care for your pet, you can avoid transporting your pet while they’re in pain and causing unnecessary anxiety.

4. Maintenance Care

Did you know your pets can receive maintenance care from housecall vets too? When you schedule an examination, ask your vet to help with nail trimming, ear cleaning, oral deworming, and more. Maintenance care keeps your pet healthy and strong and you get to avoid an extra trip for regular care and maintenance services.

Housecall vet services in Colorado Springs offer you the convenience of excellent service from the comfort of your own home. Next time your pet is due for an exam or needs vaccines, wound care, or maintenance care, call or text Dr. Robin, the local housecall vet in Colorado Springs, at (970) 217-1260 to schedule an appointment.

Cat and Dog Recommendations

Cat Recommendations.

1). Feed a high quality, grain free, high protein diet in healthy cats.  This can change in elderly cats depending on kidney function.

2) Bloodwork and a urinalysis screening is recommended annually starting at 7-8 years of age.
Feline leukemia and FIV blood testing is recommended in all kittens.

3). Yearly comprehensive exams and dental health screenings.   Semi annual exams (every 6 months) is recommended starting at 7-8 years of age.

4). Rabies and FVRCP vaccines are needed as their core protecting vaccines.  Feline leukemia vaccine recommended for cats that go outside and wander.

5) Environmental enrichment in the home is very important.  Such as cat tree/condos, toys, scratching posts, and fresh water at all times!

6). Trim nails frequently.  Recommended every 1-3 months depending on your cats activity level.

7).  Monthly parasite control such as feline Revolution.  protects against heartworm disease, fleas, ear mites, and intestinal parasites like roundworms.

8). Very important to spay/neuter your pet to prevent unwanted pets that end up in shelters!  And a good health decision for your pet.

9).  Microchip your pet, especially the cats that go outdoors. 

Dog Recommendations
1).  High quality dog food, grain free can be advantageous for the pet who has allergies.

2).  Annual exams/dental exams for your dog.  semi annual recommended starting at 5-6 years old.

3). Bloodwork and urinalysis Screening starting at 7-8 years of age.

4). Vaccinations are important.   Rabies and DHPP are the core vaccines.  Highly recommend Leptospirosis vaccine in all dogs!  This is a bacteria that can be found in the urine of many wildlife and can be spread to the dog through oral ingestion of contaminated water, open wounds contaminated with the bacteria or it can get through mucus membranes( ie: dogs who go swimming in creeks, ponds, etc).

5).  Parasite control like Heartgard Plus and Frontline Plus are recommended monthly.

6).  Spay/neuter your pet!

These are a few things that I feel is important.   Also pet insurance for all pets.

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8 Tips For Taking Good Care of Your Pets

Your pet is an extension of your family and deserves the best care and attention. As a mobile vet service in Colorado Springs, Dr. Robin’s goal is to provide vet services in your home to help your pet live a happy, healthy life. To keep your pet healthy and strong, consider the following tips for taking care of your pets.

1. Proper Food and Water

It’s important to feed your pet healthy portion sizes with the proper food to meet their nutritional needs. Avoid overfeeding your pet or giving them table scraps. Human food may contain ingredients which can cause animals to become sick.

Give your pet access to fresh water throughout the day. This is especially important in the summer to keep your pet hydrated.

2. Mental Stimulation

Your pets should have access to daily mental stimulation. Stimulation is important for long-term health in dogs and cats.

Make a point each day to play with your pets. Offer toys or scratching posts for your cat or take your dog on walks and play tug-of-war. Play time helps reduce boredom and enables your pet to live a happier, healthier life.

3. Daily Exercise

Just as humans need exercise to be healthy and strong, your pet needs daily exercise (and play time!) for strong muscle tone. Play with your cat in your home or take your for a walk or to a dog park to run and play.

4. Grooming

Pets do their own daily cleaning, but they rely on us to wash them to reduce odor and prevent disease. Care for your pets by brushing their hair or fur every few days and washing them every 2-3 weeks. Keep your dog or cat’s toenails short to prevent them from breaking.

5. Spay/Neuter Your Pets

This procedure can be performed as young as 4 mo of age and helps reduce unwanted animals in shelters. It offers benefits to your pet by reducing their risk of cancer and eliminating the urge to roam and potentially get lost.

6. Vaccinations

Regular vaccinations can protect your pet from rabies, canine hepatitis, distemper, feline leukemia, and more. Consult your veterinarian about which vaccines your pet needs and how often they need them.

7. Regular Check-ups

Annual exams are vital to your pet’s health. These check-ups make it easier to catch health problems early and offer treatment. Veterinarians can offer advice on nutrition, solutions for parasites, and discuss recommended vaccines for your pet.

8. Love and Affection

Shower your pet with love and affection. The happiest pets are the ones who are well loved!

If you need mobile vet services in Colorado Springs, Dr. Robin has an extensive background with small animals and emergency care. She offers annual exams as well as vaccines and maintenance care from the convenience of your home. Check out her complete list of services and contact Dr. Robin to schedule an appointment for your pet.

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4 Common Health Issues For Dogs

If you’re located near Colorado Springs, housecall veterinarian services can come to your home and care for sick pets or provide annual check-ups.

When your dog is normally happy and healthy, you can tell when something is wrong by changes in behavior or physical symptoms. Unfortunately, your faithful companions can’t tell you what’s wrong, so they depend on you to get the help they need.

It’s important to be aware of common health issues for dogs so you can get your dog help as soon as symptoms occur.

Vomiting and Diarrhea

Vomiting isn’t always cause for alarm. Some dogs have sensitive stomachs and may throw up when they’re active after a meal. If you notice vomiting that isn’t typical for your dog, there may be an issue.

More serious vomiting could mean poisoning, parasites, kidney failure, infection, or be caused by swallowing objects. If your dog continues to vomit for more than a day, contact your Colorado Springs housecall veterinarian service.

Diarrhea may also occur on occasion, but prolonged diarrhea that’s dark or contains blood should be checked out. For vomiting and diarrhea, make sure your dog gets enough water to fight dehydration.

Skin Issues

Many dogs develop skin issues from infections, parasites, and allergies. Your dog may show signs of excessive scratching or biting at their skin, hair loss, or allergic reactions.

Infections can result from ringworm which is very contagious and causes hair loss or scaly patches. Parasites include ticks, fleas, and ear mites. Common allergens including pollen or mold and food allergies such as wheat, corn, soy, chicken, or beef can cause skin irritation.

Skin irritations can be treated with medicated shampoos, antibiotics, or antihistamines. Consult your vet about a diet to reduce food allergies. They can also recommend ways to prevent fleas with monthly topical medications.

Ear Infections

Dogs rely on good hearing to navigate throughout their day. Similar to skin issues, ear infections can be caused by allergies, bacteria, yeast, parasites, foreign objects, and more.

Ear infections can be extremely common in domestic dogs. If left untreated, infections cause prolonged discomfort, inflammation, itching, scratching, and shaking of their ears.

Ear infections won’t go away on their own. If your dog has shown signs of discomfort and excessive scratching, it’s important to consult your veterinarian as soon as possible to diagnose and treat the issue.

Obesity

If your dog eats too much or doesn’t get enough exercise, obesity can increase their health risks. Just like humans, overweight dogs face increased risks for diabetes, joint pain, and other diseases.

For dogs at risk for obesity, reduce snacks or treats and give them time to run and play outside. Consult with your vet regarding a diet and exercise plan to get your dog back on track.

As a Colorado Springs housecall veterinarian service, Dr. Robin can treat your dog if they are experiencing any of these health issues. Contact us today to schedule an appointment.

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Top Questions About Mobile Vet Services in Colorado Springs Answered

Perhaps you’re considering mobile vet services in Colorado Springs, but you have a few questions or concerns about the process and how house-call vet services actually work. We understand your concerns and want to put your thoughts at ease as you consider house-call veterinarian services for your pet. The following are the most frequently asked questions about.

Q: Is a mobile, or housecall, vet just as qualified as a regular veterinarian?

A: Absolutely. A housecall vet must have exactly the same qualifications to operate as a veterinarian. Instead of choosing to remain in one location in a clinic setting, housecall vets bring their business and expertise right to you and your pet in a setting that is comfortable and convenient.

Q: What are the advantages of mobile vet services versus going to a clinic?

A: Some pets don’t do well being transported or can react negatively to changes in scenery, bright lights, or loud noises. For these pets, a mobile vet may be just the answer to your problems.

Mobile vets also save you precious time. You benefit by having a veterinarian come to your home without having to drive your pet across town, leave work early, or pile your kids in a car to take your pet in for immunizations or an annual check-up.

Typical clinic settings usually only offer a small window of time with the vet. Many pet owners choose to go with a mobile vet in order to have more time with the veterinarian to ask questions and make sure their pet is getting the best care possible.

Q: Can housecall vets provide all the same tests and procedures?

A: Mobile vets can perform most tasks that a veterinarian in a stationary clinic can perform. Housecall veterinarians can provide annual physical examinations, give immunizations, and draw blood. They’re able to do most tasks in your home except for surgeries or x-rays.

Emergency services are also available. Check with the mobile vet for more information on services available.

Q: Is the home environment better for receiving care?

A: For many pets and owners the answer is, Yes. The sights, sounds, and smells in a clinic can cause stress and anxiety in some pets. This can mask their symptoms and make it harder to diagnose an issue.

Being around other sick pets in a waiting room can also affect the health and wellness of your pet, especially for young animals who haven’t received all their proper immunizations. By keeping your pet away from other sick pets, you’ll reduce the risk of coming in contact with other diseases or illness.

If you’re considering house-call veterinarian services in Colorado Springs and have more questions, we’re happy to answer them! Dr. Robin offers professional mobile vet services in Colorado Springs right at your doorstep. For compassionate and quality care for your pet from the comfort of your own home, contact us for more information.