Last updated 4 months ago
When choosing a pet, most people think of getting a puppy; however, taking home an older dog can be great, too. A mature dog can offer love and affection without the potential drawbacks of having a puppy. When you adopt an older dog, you just may be saving a life. Here are few advantages of adopting a mature dog:
Minimal Training Required
When you take home an older dog, the odds are good that you won’t be required to housetrain him. For individuals with light-colored carpets, or those who don’t like puppy surprises, an older dog is the perfect pet choice. As cute as they may be, puppies can often be destructive, too. Though the teething stage doesn’t last forever, you may be worried about your couches and shoes holding up in the process. An older dog is more likely to be well behaved, and can save you days of worrying over your furniture and clothing.
Less Physical Activity
All pets require some exercise to keep them physically fit and mentally sound, but older dogs usually don’t need as much activity as puppies. Puppies have a lot of excess energy, and may insist that you play with or walk them multiple times a day. While playtime and walks should also be a regular part of an older dog’s routine, he likely won’t demand as much of your time as a puppy.
Short-Term Commitment
Many people worry about being able to provide a long-term home for an animal. If you want to welcome a pet into your home, but aren’t sure if you can have one for 15 years, you should consider an older dog. Though your time with him may be shorter, you’ll get just as much love and fulfillment from the years you have together.
Gully Animal Hospital can help prospective pet owners decide if having an older dog is the right decision. No matter how old your pet is, our veterinarians are standing by to provide optimum care. To speak with a veterinarian about the requirements of having an older dog, call our Arlington pet hospital at (817) 756-6733.
Last updated 4 months ago
Bringing a kitten into your home can be a highly rewarding decision. This video demonstrates why kittens bring so much joy to their owners.
Kittens are full of life, which is why many people love them as pets. These small balls of fur have a seemingly endless supply of energy. Once that tiny creature curls up in your arms and begins to purr, you’ll never want to put her down. Plus, it doesn’t hurt that kittens are extremely cute, making their antics all the more amusing. If you want an animal that can provide years of love, humor, and companionship, a kitten is the perfect pet.
Gully Animal Hospital provides a wide range of preventative and treatment services for kittens and cats. To schedule an appointment with a veterinarian at our Arlington pet hospital, call us at (817) 756-6733 or visit our website.
Last updated 5 months ago
The care that your pet needs changes with the seasons. With winter fast approaching, you should take steps to ensure that your pet remains warm and safe. You can visit the links below for great holiday pet care tips, or contact Gully Animal Hospital in Arlington at (817) 756-6733 for more information.
Last updated 5 months ago
While it’s true that furry cats and dogs have an advantage over humans in the winter, they aren’t impervious to cold. Domesticated animals are just as acclimatized to the comfort of indoors as you are. Pets that are habitually outside need diligent care and attention, since overexposure to cold weather can lead to frostbite or hypothermia. Find out how you can protect your pet this winter with the following tips:
Ensure Indoor Safety
You should keep your pets indoors as much as possible during the winter months. Though the indoors are relatively safe, there are still several dangers that you should watch out for. For instance, you should keep your fireplaces barred off so that your dog’s tail doesn’t accidentally brush against the flames. Space heaters and other hot surfaces should be extremely stable so that your pet doesn’t accidentally knock one over. Check that your pet doesn’t have access to the garage where he might encounter antifreeze—a toxic liquid with a sweet taste.
Prevent Outdoor Harm
Make sure that you accompany your pet any time he goes outdoors. Avoid icy lakes or ponds that he could fall into, and steer clear of puddles that may contain oil or other chemicals. You should be able to gauge how long your pet can endure the cold by his age and medical history. Older dogs with joint problems or hormonal imbalances may have a difficult time withstanding the cold.
Beware of Holiday Dangers
Holiday cheer can turn sour fast if your pet comes into contact with toxic sweets, plants, and décor. Be mindful of where you store the chocolates and goodies, as some candies can provoke liver failure, vomiting, and heart problems in dogs. Moreover, you might want to rethink the holiday foliage since mistletoe, holly, and poinsettias can irritate your pet’s stomach and mouth. If your pet should experience health problems, take him to a veterinarian right away.
Keep your four-legged friend healthy and safe for the holidays by visiting Gully Animal Hospital in Arlington. Whether your pet needs regular vaccines or urgent care, our veterinarian clinic has the equipment and caring staff to help. To learn more about clinic, call us at (817) 756-6733.
Last updated 5 months ago
The holidays offer a much-needed break from work and a great opportunity to visit family and friends. If you’re thinking about taking a vacation from home, you’ll need to make plans for your pet. Whether you’re leaving by car, plane, or train, traveling with pets is far more convenient today than ever before. With enough planning and preparation, you could bring your furry friend along this holiday season. Here’s how:
Air Travel:
For many pet owners, traveling with your pet by air can be a worrisome experience. You can alleviate much of your anxiety by understanding the rules of air travel with pets. Make sure your pet has a valid health and rabies vaccination certificate before you fly. Purchase a transport crate that is large enough for your pet to stand in, clearly labeled with your name and address, and properly ventilated. For the sake of your pet’s comfort, try to reserve a nonstop flight in the middle of the week.
Car Travel:
One of the simplest ways to travel with your pet is by car. However, there are certain guidelines you should follow to maintain the safety of everyone involved. While larger dogs can be trained to sit in a vehicle, cats should be kept in a crate to prevent them from crawling under the driver’s feet. If you’re going on a long trip, give your pet his or her food when you’ve reached your destination and at breakpoints. Allow plenty of exercise by stopping every 2 hours.
Bus & Train Travel:
Unfortunately, guide and service dogs are usually the only pets allowed aboard buses and trains. If you were planning on traveling to your holiday destination by bus or train, you should consider boarding your pet or finding alternative means of travel. If you have any questions about traveling with a pet, you should speak with an experienced veterinarian.
Before you take your pet traveling for the holidays, make an appointment at Gully Animal Hospital for a quality veterinary check-up. We offer preventative care, grooming, and even pet boarding services in case you can’t travel with your pet. Call our clinic in Arlington at (817) 756-6733 for more information.
