Veterinary Clinic Guide to Traveling with Your Pet

Our pets are family, and many of us prefer to travel with our pets when we go on vacation. Your pet can provide amazing companionship during a trip and if you're driving, a reason to stop and stretch your legs. If you have children, your pet can help keep them occupied, and once you reach your destination, you get to include your pet in all your fun vacation memories. Traveling with a pet does require additional planning to be successful. While it may be more time and effort, we think it's worth it! Our veterinary clinic guide to traveling with your pet covers some of the factors you need to consider as you're planning your next vacation.?

Planning Your Trip with Your Pet

When planning a trip with your pet you need to consider the pet-friendliness of the destination, the travel method, and preparations for your pet before you leave.

Selecting a Vacation Destination

Not every destination is going to be ideal for your pet. A trip to Disneyworld for example would require your pet to spend long days alone while you are at the theme park. This wouldn't be any fun for them, and it would be extra stress on you to make sure your pet has access to use the bathroom, eat, and exercise. 

A trip to a beach would be a better choice. Research the area you are interested in traveling to and make sure they have dog-friendly beaches. National parks are pet-friendly places to vacation. You and your dog can even become  B.A.R.K. Rangers which provides you with all the information you need to know about bringing your pet to a park. And you get a fun badge! 

Research accommodations to ensure you can bring your pet with you. Plan out your stays in hotels or motels to make sure you can book pet-friendly locations. You can find pet policies on the website of a hotel or call to ask. Many pet-friendly hotels will charge an extra fee for fido, and there may be some restrictions on breeds, so be sure to ask questions and do your research.

Most campgrounds will allow pets, although there may be areas in which they need to stay leashed. Pre-plan your overnight stays at campgrounds, and RV parks to eliminate any surprises in policies or with fees.

Wherever you choose as your destination, it's important to research any restrictions or regulations for pets including vaccinations.

Traveling Methods

It's important to know the policies and restrictions that may accompany various ways of traveling. 

Air Travel

Traveling with your pets when you fly has considerable restrictions and policies. Each airline will have their own set of regulations, however, here are some common requirements. 

Fees 

You may be required to purchase an extra ticket if you have more than one pet, or the airline may charge additional money as a "pet fare".  

Carriers 

Be prepared to have your pet travel in a hard-sided or soft-sided carrier. If your pet hasn't traveled much in a carrier, start acclimating them in the months before your flight. Bring treats or toys to keep them occupied on the flight.

Pets may or may not be allowed in the cabin depending on how full the flight is. Your pet may be allowed in the cabin but be required to remain in the carrier for the entire flight. The exception to this rule is service animals. They may remain in the cabin without a carrier. Check with your airline for guidelines for the sizes allowed for carriers as these may differ between airlines. 

Airlines also have limitations on the number of pets allowed in a cabin. If they have met that limit, your pet may not be allowed to travel with you. 

Some airlines allow checked pets, but only for members of the military or people who work for the State Department. There may also be breed restrictions for pets including snub-nosed pets like pugs, and bulldogs. Visit the website for your airline to see the complete list of rules and restrictions for traveling with your pets.

Depending on your destination, you may be required to submit health records including vaccinations such as rabies. Before you book your flights, schedule an appointment with a veterinary clinic like Cimarron Animal Hospital for an annual exam and vaccinations.

Car Travel

Traveling by car with your pet is much easier. You make the rules. However, there are some tips to keep your pets safe and happy while traveling you should consider.

Pet Safety Gear 

Just as you buckle up for safety, it's important to make sure your pet is constrained either with a harness that attaches to a seat belt or in a carrier. This helps keep them safe in the event of a car accident.

Pack Smart 

Be sure to pack the essentials including food, water, bowls, and waste bags. If your pet requires medication, make sure you have enough for the trip and pack that as well. You will want to make sure they are wearing a collar with updated contact information, a good leash, bedding, and treats and toys. Don't forget to pack a pet emergency first aid kit as well.

Stop for Breaks 

You will need to take bathroom breaks and so will your pet! They will also travel better if they can exercise and explore on the way to your destination. Bring bottled water so they can stay hydrated as they take a break to stretch their legs. 

Preparing Your Pet for Travel

If you are traveling by air, and internationally, there are requirements for vaccinations you must follow. However, even if you are traveling by car, ensuring your pet is up to date on vaccines is smart. As they explore new areas they will be potentially exposed to bacteria or viruses that can make them sick. Vaccines from a veterinary clinic protect your pet.

Microchipping your pet is also recommended. In case your pet becomes lost or strays away from you, a microchip will help reunite you much faster. If your pet is already microchipped, make sure your contact information is still accurate, especially if you have moved or changed phone numbers.

Leaving Your Pet Behind

Sometimes it's simply not possible to travel with your pet. If your pet must stay behind, you can either board them in a kennel, or use a pet sitter.

Boarding Your Pet

You may search for "animal boarding near me" to find a reputable boarding facility and read reviews. You can also get a referral from your veterinary clinic if you need a place to board your pet. Cimarron Animal Hospital offers pet boarding services.

You will want to tour the facility to see how clean it is and ask questions about their staff experience and pet interaction time. If you board your pet you will want to leave some familiar items with them (toys, bedding), and medications.

Leaving Your Pet with a Pet Sitter

It may be beneficial to hire a pet and house sitter while you are away. Talk to family and friends for recommendations or you can check with services such as Rover.com. Before you leave, schedule a meet, and greet session. This will ensure that your pet sitter, your pet, and you are a good match.

You will also want to create detailed instructions for pet care. What are your pet's quirks or habits that a pet sitter will need to know? Write down everything you can think of to help the pet sitter understand your pet better and create a comfortable environment for your pet while you're away. Purchase enough food and treats to last while you are away and give instructions for when and how much your pet is fed. 

In case of emergencies, write down the name and contact information of the veterinary clinic, like Cimarron Animal Hospital. It would also be wise to leave a credit card for medical emergencies or put one on file with us at Cimarron Animal Hospital.

Travel Smart & Have Fun

Hopefully, you can plan vacations that include your pet for lots of family fun and memories. If you can travel with your pet, take steps to ensure they are safe and comfortable. This includes vaccinations and checkups with a veterinary clinic like Cimarron Animal Hospital.

In cases in which you can't take your pet, do your due diligence to choose a safe and reputable boarding facility or pet sitter.

If you need to schedule an appointment for examinations, vaccinations, or microchipping before your vacation, or if you need pet boarding, contact Cimarron Animal Hospital. 

Pet Hospital Vaccinations

The Importance of Vaccinations for Your Pets 

Imagine your unvaccinated dog playing in the dog park, meeting a new friend, and several days later they begin coughing. In the time they spent frolicking with a friend, they contracted kennel cough. While kennel cough isn't deadly, other viruses and bacteria are, and vaccinations from your pet hospital can protect your dog or cat from contracting these illnesses or lessen the severity.

How Vaccines Work 

Vaccines in animals work the same as vaccines in humans. Vaccines teach your pet's immune system how to fight off disease by stimulating antibodies that destroy viruses and bacteria before they cause illness. In many cases, this prevents the illnesses altogether and lessens the severity of disease if it is contracted.

Types of Vaccines 

There are two types of vaccinations for your pet: core and non-core. Both types provide protection to your pet.

Core Vaccines 

Core vaccines are recommended for all pets. 

Dogs 

For dogs and puppies core vaccines include: 

Rabies - This virus inflames the brain and can be spread to humans through bites. Once an animal has rabies, there is no treatment. 

Parvovirus - Dogs can contract parvo through contact with an infected dog 's stool or on surfaces like food and water bowls, kennels, and even through humans who have come into contact with the virus. This is a highly contagious virus that causes severe dehydration with diarrhea and vomiting. While it can be treated, it often requires hospitalization which can be expensive, and there is no guarantee the dog will survive. 

Canine Hepatitis - This is another highly contagious disease. Canine hepatitis causes a severe infection in the liver. It can be spread through saliva, urine, blood, feces, and mucus from an infected dog. Some cases of acute canine hepatitis can be cured, but chronic hepatitis cannot be cured. Puppies and young dogs have the highest mortality rate for canine hepatitis.

Canine Parainfluenza - Most commonly known as kennel cough, canine parainfluenza is very contagious and often affects dogs that are in close proximity to one another, such as playing at the dog park, doggy daycare, or while boarding. Though kennel cough isn't typically fatal, it may lead to chronic lung issues in some dogs. 

Canine Distemper Virus - Canine distemper is contagious and causes serious health issues and one in two pets will die from infection. Distemper attacks the immune system and spreads to the respiratory, gastrointestinal, and nervous systems. This disease is spread through the air including exposure to infected dogs that are sneezing, coughing, or barking in addition to shared food and water bowls. There is no cure or antiviral treatment for distemper.

Cats 

In cats, the recommended core vaccines include: 

Feline Panleukopenia Virus - This virus is like parvo in dogs. It is highly contagious and affects the cat's nervous and gastrointestinal systems. It affects kittens more severely than adult cats. Feline panleukopenia is often fatal and can be prevented with a vaccine.

Feline Leukemia Virus (FeLV) - FeLV is a disease that affects a cat's immune system. It can also cause leukemia, lymphoma, and infertility in cats. It cannot spread from cats to humans, and it most often spreads through saliva and bite wounds. 

Rabies - Cats are the most reported domestic animals with rabies and just as in dogs, it is fatal. 

Feline Rhinotracheitis - This is a respiratory illness that inflames the nose and windpipe of an infected cat. Feline rhinotracheitis is the cause of 80-90% of infectious feline upper respiratory diseases. It is spread through direct contact with saliva or nose and eye discharge from an infected cat.

Feline Calcivirus - This condition causes oral and upper respiratory disease in cats. It's highly contagious and can be spread through sneezing, contact with saliva, and nose and eye discharge. Most cats recover, but rare strains of the disease can be fatal.

These core vaccinations are critical to the health of your dog or cat and should not be ignored or put off. Puppies and kittens are especially susceptible to these illnesses and should be vaccinated as soon as possible.

Non-Core Vaccines 

Non-core vaccines are recommended by a pet hospital based on the pet's history and lifestyle.

Dogs 

Non-core vaccines for puppies and dogs are based on where they live including the lifestyle of the pet and owner.

Leptospirosis - This is more common in regions that have warm and wet environments. The bacteria thrive in water and urine-contaminated soil. The disease is spread by rodents and enters the dog 's body through ingestion, mucus membranes, or broken skin. While this condition is usually survivable, it can cause chronic kidney or liver issues.

Canine Giardia - This condition causes diarrhea, nausea, vomiting and other gastrointestinal issues. It's spread through contact with infected fecal matter, rolling in contaminated soil, or coming in contact with a contaminated surface or body of water. Dogs who frequent dog parks or trails may be at higher risk.

Lyme disease - This illness can affect you and your dog. In dogs Lyme Disease attacks the joints and causes arthritis. It can be treated with antibiotics, but symptoms may return. If you go camping, hiking in wooded areas, or through tall grasses your dog is more likely to have a tick bite. 

Bordetella bronchiseptica - This is a contagious respiratory infection that causes dry hacking coughs, as well as sneezing, retching, and watery nasal discharge. Animals that are frequently boarded or participate in events, or where there are multiple animals in the home are more likely to be exposed to Bordetella bronchiseptica. 

Cats 

The following vaccines are recommended based on your cat's history and habits but are not required.

Feline Giardia - Your cat can become infected with giardia which causes gastrointestinal issues, just like in your dog. Giardia can be passed to humans, so pet owners, especially those with immune system deficiencies should dispose of fecal matter with more care. Pet owners can also disinfect spaces with bleach.

Chlamydophila felis - This disease causes conjunctivitis in cats which can be painful and cause severe swelling in the eyes. It's contagious to other cats, uncomfortable, and may contribute to infertility, but is not deadly. However, if you have a multi-cat household a vaccination is recommended. 

When Should Your Pet Be Vaccinated? 

Your pet should be vaccinated as soon as they become a part of your family. If you have a puppy or a kitten, vaccinations are especially important. Young pets are often more severely affected by disease and need the protection of a vaccine. 

If you adopt a pet from a local shelter or rescue, they likely will already have the vaccines they need, but ask for the history for your records. Pets that are adopted as strays should be brought to a pet hospital to be examined, treated for any conditions, and vaccinated. 

In some cases, if your pet already has a disease including feline leukemia virus (FeLV), they should not be vaccinated. It's important to have an initial health exam to help determine which vaccinations are needed.

Vaccination is Protection 

Vaccinating your pets protects them, and sometimes your family, from health conditions that range from unpleasant to deadly.

Vaccinations are an important part of your pet's annual physical exams. The veterinarians at Cimarron Animal Hospital can give your pets the core vaccines they need to stay healthy and prevent disease. Our team can also help you determine which non-core vaccinations will be best for your pet based on their risk.

Contact us to schedule your pet's annual exams, initial vaccinations, and boosters.

Animal Clinics Tips and Tricks for a Happier Pet

Whether you're a seasoned pet parent or a rookie in the realm of furry friends, understanding and addressing your pet's behavior is crucial for a comfortable life together. Fortunately, animal clinics and pet trainers have great information to better understand your pet.

Just like humans, pets have behaviors based on their happiness. Pets have a range of emotions, just like us. It's important to understand these emotions expressed through behaviors so you can train your pets and help them experience a happier life with you.

Animal Clinics Training Tips

Teaching your pets manners isn't just about avoiding chaos; it's a way to strengthen your bond and ensure a stress-free environment for both you and your four-legged friend.

Positive Reinforcement Training

According to the Humane Society of the United States, one of the most effective training methods is positive reinforcement. When your pet does something right, reward them with treats, praise, or even a belly rub. This encourages them to repeat the behavior.

Examples, from the Humane Society of the US, of times to reinforce good behavior include having your pet sit before being let outside, before petting them, and before feeding them. If they are lying quietly or chewing a toy instead of one of your personal items, you should also give positive attention and rewards for those behaviors.

Timing

Timing is essential for positive reinforcement. Your pet must be rewarded within seconds of the good behavior for your pet to associate the reward with the good behavior. One example of this may be giving the command for your dog to sit before receiving a treat. You must give the treat when they sit and not wait until they stand back up. Often pet owners inadvertently reward the wrong behavior just by not acting quickly enough.

Short and Sweet Sessions

Keep training sessions short and enjoyable. Pets have short attention spans, so focusing on one command at a time prevents overwhelm and ensures better retention.

Verbal and Physical Cues

Body language is as important as the words we say when we are training our pet, especially as they are starting out. You can use your hand to coax your pet into the desired behavior. For example, you can hold a treat and move it to the ground so they will lay down.

Adding key word commands is also essential. Some of the most common commands include:

Common Types of Rewards

Your pet can be motivated by several things including treats, pets and other positive attention, or through play. If using treats to train your pet, be sure that you are mixing up the treats, so they don't become bored of the same old thing.

You should also keep these treats small. Since you will be rewarding them multiple times a day, too many larger treats can lead to unhealthy weight gain. Remember to praise your pet when you give the treat. This way they associate your positive words with their reward.

Consistency is the Key

Like humans, pets thrive on routine. Be consistent in your commands and rewards. This helps them understand what's expected and builds a sense of security. If you want your dog to stop jumping on guests, use the command, "off" every time instead of sometimes saying "stop" as well. Consistency will help your pet learn which behavior you are directing them toward.

Behavioral Issues

Even the best-behaved pets can face behavioral challenges. Understanding the root causes and addressing them early can make a significant difference. Remember that change takes an investment of your time and patience. No pet will learn new behaviors overnight and even the smartest pets need time to become acquainted with your commands.

Separation Anxiety

Pets, especially dogs, can experience separation anxiety when left alone. The most common reasons pets may start to experience separation anxiety include moving or being newly adopted from a shelter or foster environment. The death of a family member or other pet is another common trigger, as well as when the family returns to work or school after a prolonged time at home such as during the Covid shutdowns, and summer breaks.

Some of the signs your pet may be experiencing separation anxiety include trembling or shaking, destructive chewing, whining, howling or barking, going to the bathroom in the house, and scratching at doors or windows.

To ease this, gradually increase the time you spend away and provide toys or treats that keep them occupied. Animal clinics may also have medications to help with separation anxiety.

Aggression

Aggressive behavior may stem from fear, territorial instincts, or a health issue. Consult with your vet near you to rule out any medical concerns and work on positive socialization techniques.

Excessive Barking

While barking is natural, excessive barking can be a problem. Identify triggers and use positive reinforcement to redirect their attention. Addressing boredom with toys and mental stimulation also helps.

Digging and Chewing

Dogs love to dig and chew, but it can become destructive. Ensure they have appropriate outlets for these behaviors, like designated digging areas and chew toys.

Enrichment Activities Help Prevent Bad Behavior

Enrichment activities are like a mental workout for your pet, keeping them stimulated and happy. Here are some ideas to turn your home into a haven of fun and learning:

Puzzle Toys

Invest in puzzle toys that dispense treats when solved. This not only challenges their intellect but also provides a tasty reward. You can find a variety of these types of toys in your local pet store or online.

Hide and Seek

Play a game of hide and seek with your pet's favorite toys or treats. It engages their sense of smell and adds an exciting element to their day. As a bonus, this is free and is a great way for you to bond and have fun with your pet.

Interactive Play

Get interactive with your playtime. Tug-of-war, fetch, and even a simple game of tag can enhance your pet's physical and mental well-being.

DIY Agility Course

Set up a DIY agility course in your backyard using household items. It's a fantastic way to keep your pet active and build trust through positive reinforcement. You can find DIY agility courses online as well!

Understanding Your Pet

Understanding your pet's individual needs, quirks, and preferences is the key to fostering a happy and healthy relationship. If you ever find yourself facing challenges or simply want guidance on your pet's behavior, don't hesitate to reach out to Cimarron Animal Hospital, one of Wichita's most trusted animal clinics.

What is GVD in Dogs?

So what is GVD in dogs? Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus (GVD) is a life-threatening condition that affects dogs. You might have heard it called bloat too. But no matter what you call it, this is a serious condition every dog parent should know about.

Understanding Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus (GVD)

GVD, or Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus is a condition that occurs when your pet's stomach fills up with gas and then twists. Think of it like blowing up a balloon and then twisting it: it's not supposed to happen, and it's not good.

How Dangerous Is It?

GVD is a life-threatening emergency for dogs. When the stomach twists, it can cut off blood flow, causing damage to the stomach tissue and other organs. This can happen quickly, and if not treated ASAP, it can be fatal. 

Signs and Symptoms

How do you know if your pup might have GVD? Look out for these signs: 

Preventing GVD

Now, let's talk about the good stuff: how to keep your pup safe from GVD: 

Small, Frequent Meals: Instead of one big meal, split their daily food into smaller portions.

What is the Prognosis?

Without treatment, dogs with GVD will not survive. Time is of the essence with GVD. Dogs who have had symptoms for more than six hours are more likely to have complications. Other factors that increase the likelihood of complications include if a portion of the stomach has to be removed because the blood supply has been cut off. Additionally, if the spleen has to be removed, or if the dog has a history of cardiac arrhythmias complications are more likely to occur.

Dogs at Risk

Remember, GVD can happen to any dog, but some breeds are more at risk: big dogs with deep chests like Great Danes, German Shepherds, or Boxers. If you notice any of those signs or suspect something 's off, don't wait. Get your dog into Cimarron Animal Hospital or another emergency vet right away.

Take Care of Your Pet

Being a dog parent means watching out for their well-being. Now that you know what is GVD in dogs, stay aware, take precautions, and give your dog all the love and care they deserve. Contact Cimarron Animal Hospital if you have any questions about your pet's health or to schedule routine exams. Most importantly, if you notice signs of GVD, contact us right away, or take them to an after-hours emergency veterinarian.

Common Veterinary Clinic Procedures: Keeping Your Furry Friends Happy and Healthy

Welcome back, pet lovers! If you're reading this, chances are you've visited our trusted Cimarron Animal Hospital or are considering a trip to the veterinarian soon. Whether you have a playful pup, a curious cat, or an exotic pet, it's essential to understand some common veterinary procedures that can help ensure your furry (or scaly or shelled) friend's well-being. 

Wichita Vet Common Procedures

Your veterinary clinic, including Cimarron Animal Hospital, is a key player, aside from you, in keeping your pet healthy. Part of being a responsible pet owner is ensuring your pet receives regular veterinary care. Below are some of the most common reasons to visit your veterinary clinic.

Routine Check-Ups

Just like humans, pets need regular check-ups to stay healthy. These routine visits allow your veterinarian to assess your pet's overall health and catch any potential issues early on. During these appointments, your vet will: 

Vaccinations

Vaccinations are essential to protect your pet from various diseases. The specific vaccines your pet needs depend on factors like their age, species, and lifestyle. Common vaccines for dogs include rabies, distemper, and parvovirus, while cats typically receive vaccines for feline leukemia and rabies.

Dental Care

Oral health is crucial for your pet's overall well-being. Dental issues can lead to pain, infection, and even systemic health problems. Regular dental cleanings help prevent tartar buildup and gum disease. If your pet experiences dental problems, your vet may recommend extractions or other treatments to keep their pearly whites in tip-top shape.

Spaying and Neutering

Spaying (for females) and neutering (for males) are common procedures to prevent unwanted litters and reduce the risk of some health problems like uterine infections and certain cancers. These surgeries are usually performed when your pet is a few months old, and they typically recover quickly.

Microchipping

Losing a pet can be a heart-wrenching experience but microchipping can increase the chances of a reunion. This simple procedure involves inserting a tiny chip under your pet's skin, which contains a unique identification number. If your pet ever gets lost and is brought to a veterinary clinic or shelter, they can scan the chip to identify you as the owner.

Surgery

Sometimes, pets require surgery for various reasons, such as injury, illness, or a planned procedure like a dental extraction. Modern Wichita vet clinics like Cimarron Animal Hospital are equipped with state-of-the-art facilities and experienced surgeons to ensure your pet receives the best possible care during surgery and throughout the recovery process.

Parasite Control

Parasites like fleas, ticks, and worms can make your pet uncomfortable and even cause serious health problems. Your veterinarian can recommend and administer preventive medications to keep these pesky intruders at bay. Regular testing for internal parasites is also essential, especially for outdoor pets.

Allergies and Skin Conditions

Many pets suffer from allergies and skin conditions that can lead to itching, discomfort, and even infection. Our vets can help identify the cause of these issues and recommend treatment options, which may include dietary changes, medications, or allergy testing.

Wichita Vets Care for Your Pets

Caring for your beloved pets involves more than just providing food and shelter. Regular visits to your local veterinary clinic, like Cimarron Animal Hospital, are essential to ensure their health and happiness. From routine check-ups to vaccinations, dental care, and more, these common veterinary procedures play a vital role in keeping your furry friends in top-notch shape.

Remember that your veterinarian is your go-to resource for pet care advice, so don't hesitate to reach out with any questions or concerns. With proper care and attention, you can look forward to many more happy and healthy years with your four-legged family members. You can contact us to schedule an appointment for your pet's regular care.

Advice from Animal Clinics: Pet-Proofing Your Home

Keeping Your Pet Safe to Avoid Animal Clinics

When you bring home a pet it's important to make sure your home is pet-proofed for their safety. Puppies, kittens, and even adult dogs and cats are all susceptible to hidden dangers in your home. We share some pet-proofing tips to keep your pets from needing the services of emergency animal clinics.

Pet-Proofing Tips

Curious pets can often find themselves in some trouble, so it's important to keep pet safety in mind for every room in your home.

In the kitchen and the bathroom, use a trash can with a lid to keep your pet out of potentially harmful garbage. Move cleaning products, medication, and laundry soap on high shelves, or in cabinets to keep them out of sight and out of mind for your pet. If your pet can open cabinet doors, install child-proof latches. Keep food out of the reach of pets. Too often pets ingest something toxic and end up in animal clinics fighting for their lives. The ASPCA has a list of foods that are dangerous for your pet to ingest. In your laundry room, check the washer and dryer before starting in case a curious pet made its way into these machines.

Bedrooms pose other threats to your pet. Remove lotions, cosmetics, or medications from bedside tables where they are easily accessible. Keep wires from lamps, or charging devices away from open areas where they can be easily chewed. Laundry can be tempting for pets, so keep your clothes off the ground and out of reach. Check closets and drawers for pets, especially kittens and cats, before you close them.

In your living room or family room, keep house plants out of reach. Many plants are toxic to pets, so research plants before you bring them home. As in the bedroom, keep cords out of reach so they can't be easily chewed. Also, if you have children, keep toys off the floor. Toys can be choking hazards to your pet.

Finally, there are steps to take to pet-proof your garage and yard. Keep toxic materials such as antifreeze, rat poison, and yard chemicals like fertilizer and weed killers out of reach of your pets. If you can place these items inside an upper cabinet, you reduce the chance of your pet getting access. In the yard, only plant flowers and plants that are safe around your pets, and mend any holes in fences.

Contact Us

If you are considering adding a new pet to your home, contact us to establish care and ask any questions you may have about properly preparing for a new pet.

Taking Kittens to a Vet Near Me

Kitten season is here! April through October is the prime time when the cat population explodes. While kitten season may sound charming and wonderful, this time of year brings heartbreak as many unwanted kittens are born without homes and proper medical care.

The animal shelter population grows significantly during this time and strains the resources of shelters and rescues in our community. We have tips for you to keep your feline companions safe and healthy during this time and avoid adding kitten season stress to your home or community.

Keeping Kitten Season Under Control

Spaying and neutering your cats is the best way to control the population of unwanted kittens. Cimarron Animal Hospital offers spay and neuter services. According to the Humane Society of the United States, close to two million cats are euthanized each year in shelters and animal control facilities. You can search for a "vet near me" and find our office to schedule an appointment to spay or neuter your feline friends.

Trap-Neuter-Return (TNR) programs in the community help keep down the population of feral, or unowned cats. In this process, cats are trapped humanely, and then spayed or neutered, vaccinated against rabies, and then returned to their colony.

The Kansas Humane Society has a TNR program that allows people to rent a trap for $2 per day (with a $90 refundable deposit), and then once a cat is trapped, an appointment can be booked to get the spay/neuter procedure and vaccinations. Visit the KHS 's website for complete information on their TNR program.

Safe & Healthy Cats

Cats who have loving families and homes are safer and healthier than feral cats. Be sure to protect your cat from harm by spaying and neutering, as well as microchipping them in case they are lost. Microchipping a pet is simple and helps when someone finds a lost pet. They can simply search "vet near me" and most veterinary offices will be able to scan the microchip.

A collar with your phone number will also increase the chances your cat will be reunited with you in case they get out of the house. Finally, consider supporting local shelters and rescues in their efforts to help control the cat population in Wichita. The Wichita Animal Action League and Kansas Humane Society are just two of the fantastic organizations working to make Wichita a safer place for pets.

Importance of an Exotic Pet Vet

Companion animals such as dogs and cats are common, but there are people who have exotic pets who also need medical care. Regular care at an exotic pet vet is important for your exotic animal, whether it's a reptile or small mammal.

Why Choose an Exotic Pet Vet?

There are many valid reasons to choose a veterinarian who can care for exotic animals. We will examine the top reasons to choose a vet who can treat exotics.

First, vets who treat exotics in addition to dogs and cats will have had more training than a regular veterinarian and will have trained to treat exotics. A veterinarian trained in exotics will know proper handling techniques. This is crucial as improper handling could cause extra stress on your pet.

In addition, these veterinarians will have the special equipment necessary to examine, test and treat exotic pets. If your vet has medication on hand, they will likely have the medications necessary for exotic animals which could be difficult to find otherwise.

Choosing a Veterinarian for Your Pet

Before you choose an exotic pet, you should find a local veterinarian that serves exotics. You need a veterinarian who will understand the possible issues and solutions for your pet's medical needs. These types of pets will have different needs than companion animals. Don't be afraid to ask questions before you choose a veterinarian for your exotic pet. Inquire how much experience the practice has with pets like yours and set up an initial visit for an annual exam or preventative care.

Research the type of pet you're interested in and become familiar with the pros and cons of that animal. For example, some reptiles have a long lifespan. Make sure you can commit the time necessary to care for that type of pet. Additionally, research if the pets should be kept alone or with others. Pets that need socialization will be harmed if they don't have that basic need met, so be prepared to offer the best care.

If your research and heart lead you to an exotic pet, contact Cimarron Animal Hospital to schedule a consultation. We 'd love to have you and your pet as part of our family!

The Importance of Spaying and Neutering Pets

Pet owners often must face the question of whether to spay or neuter their pets. Spaying is the process of removing the reproductive organs of a female dog or cat while neutering is the same for males. According to the ASPCA, approximately 3.1 million dogs and 3.2 million cats enter animal shelters each year across the United States. Some of these animals are abandoned by owners, some are strays with no home, some are the result of accidental breeding when free-roaming, and some are surrendered by their owners. Spaying and neutering your pets are effective ways to prevent overpopulation to relieve the burden on shelters. It is also beneficial to pets in other ways. We examine the importance of spaying and neutering pets below.

Benefits of Spaying and Neutering Pets

Spaying and neutering have multiple benefits including some health and behavioral benefits.

  1. Neutered dogs are less likely to develop prostatic disease and hernias and neutering eliminates the possibility of testicular cancer.
  2. Neutered pets don't feel the need to roam to mate, and therefore are less likely to be bitten by other pets or involved in accidents. Neutered pets are also less likely to engage in marking behaviors.
  3. Spaying pets before the first estrous cycle greatly reduces the risk for breast cancer, as well as eliminates the risk for pyometra, a potentially fatal infection of the uterus.
  4. Spayed pets don't go into heat, and therefore the mess associated with estrous is eliminated. This saves pet owners from potential messes on carpets and around the home.
  5. Males, both dogs, and cats, who are neutered, are less aggressive toward other males and aren't as distracted by females in heat. Spayed females won't attract stray males looking to breed.
  6. Spaying and neutering help prevent behavioral issues such as spraying, marking, and aggression.
  7. Getting your pet fixed will help prevent unwanted pregnancy. Approximately 920,000 shelter animals are euthanized each year. This number includes animals born to stray or feral pets. Spaying and neutering help prevent the overpopulation problem plaguing animal shelters today.

How Are Spaying and Neutering Performed?

When female animals are spayed, the veterinarian will remove the ovaries, fallopian tubes, and uterus. This prevents the animal from going into heat and from being able to reproduce.

When males are neutered, the veterinarian surgically removes the testes which makes the pet unable to reproduce and eliminates male breeding behaviors such as marking.

What Age Should My Pet Get Spayed or Neutered?

Kittens should be spayed around five to six months old and dogs should be six months or older. Male cats should be spayed around five months old and male dogs should be six to nine months. However, adult pets over these ages can also be spayed or neutered if they aren't already.

Schedule Your Pet

The importance of saying and neutering pets can't be overstated. If you have a pet you would like to have spayed or neutered, contact Cimarron Animal Hospital. Our doctors perform spaying and neutering surgeries regularly and are ready to help your pet safely through the process.