Animal Medical Hospital’s Blog

As dog owners, we’re familiar with our best pal’s likes, dislikes, habits, routines, and, of course, their smell. Dog odors can range from pleasant (puppy breath) to downright disgusting (a roll in fresh manure). One smell that isn’t necessarily bad but is certainly perplexing is paw odor. Many dog owners recognize the scent as smelling like Fritos, popcorn, or freshly baked bread.

If you’re wondering why your dog’s paws smell like Fritos, we can help! At Animal Medical Hospital & 24 Hour Urgent Care, we regularly delve into topics like pet grooming, shedding, and dental care. This time, let’s turn our attention to your pet’s adorable yet strangely odiferous paws!

Throughout history, humans have created myths and stories related to events or phenomena we don’t understand. Myths encompass almost every topic imaginable and range from believable to truly bizarre. Dogs have been sharing life with humans for roughly 14,000 years, so it makes sense that we’ve dreamed up plenty of stories about these lovable companions.

Just because it’s 2019 doesn’t mean there aren’t plenty of dog breed myths out there to distract and confuse well-meaning pet owners. Let’s take a look at some of the most common misconceptions about dog breeds.

Children have the capacity to feel things very deeply. When they’re joyful, it’s as if there’s a bottomless well of goodness. When they’re scared, their fear can be all-consuming. But when they’re heart-broken over the death of a pet, it can feel like the end of the world.

Without a doubt, kids form very strong attachments to family pets, and this is often their first experience with death. Understandably, they’ll require lots of help dealing with pet loss and moving through the stages of grief.

The image of a small child and a devoted family dog is a powerful one. At Animal Medical Hospital & 24 Hour Urgent Care, we witness the magic of children and their pets almost daily. There are even scientific studies supporting improvements in emotional skills, reading and cognition, decreased risk of allergies, and improved immune system function in children who are exposed to animals.

Of course, there is a right and a wrong way to do things. While kids and pets make an amazing match, it is important to be sure that we are responsible and safe when putting them together.

If you own a dog, you know there’s a reason they’re referred to as “man’s best friend.” It seems like dogs are always happy to see us, and sometimes, it may feel as if your dog can actually read your mind!

Although the bond between humans and their canine companions is remarkable, there are plenty of times when our pets reminds us they are, in fact, a different species. Let’s take a moment to examine some weird dog behaviors and what may be causing them.

A trip to any grocery or big box store will reveal that Easter is fast approaching. Plastic eggs, colorful grass, and row upon row of chocolates and sweets fill the shelves as many people gear up for the holiday. Unfortunately, so many of the delights that go along with this day can be hazardous to pets.  

Nothing ruins a holiday like a trip to the emergency veterinary clinic! Each year, veterinary hospitals and poison control centers see an increase in calls and visits during Easter weekend. Fortunately, with our Easter pet safety tips, you and your pet can enjoy a fun, safe, uneventful day!

It’s inaccurate to say that all domestic felines detest getting wet, but it’s not far from the truth. Sure, there are some delightful cats out there that, we can only assume, never got the memo about hightailing it far, far away from a running faucet. But for the most part, cats experience intrinsic, and often hilarious, reactions to the elixir of life.

Just when you thought you had them all figured out, we offer some insight regarding why cats hate water.

Picture this – you arrive home after a long day of work only to discover that your pet is nowhere to be found, and the back door is wide open. Or perhaps a friend or worker has been in your home and left the door or gate ajar, allowing your little explorer to slip away unnoticed. Whatever the circumstances, having a pet go missing is one of the worst experiences a pet owner can have.

Hopefully your pet is wearing their collar and ID tags, but even those can become lost or damaged during your pet’s wandering. Pet microchipping can add a level of security to this scary scenario. Join the team at Animal Medical & 24 Hour Urgent Care as we walk you through the ins and outs of pet microchipping.

Charlotte has a reputation for mild weather, but we’re actually the ice storm capital of America. Indeed, our winters can be extreme, but our summers also compete with record-breaking temperatures. Additionally, tornadoes, hurricanes, and even drought are all possible contenders when it comes to natural disasters in our area. Although preparing for an emergency isn’t fun, taking steps to protect your pet is absolutely critical to their safety.

All pets need to be groomed from time to time, and although your pet may not enjoy the process, they probably love the aftermath. At Animal Medical Hospital & 24 Hour Urgent Care, we believe in the power of pet grooming to support the health and longevity of our animal companions. That’s why we’re proud to offer top-quality pet grooming services right here at our facility.

Keep reading to learn more about why this element of pet care is so important.