Dr. Paola’s Dogster Advice: Expert Insights for Your Furry Friend
Welcome to our engaging and informative “Ask Dr. Paola” series, where we bring you expert advice from Dr. Paola Cuevas (MVZ) every Monday to help you navigate your dog’s health and well-being. Dr. Paola is a seasoned veterinarian with a passion for providing valuable insights to pet parents, whether you’re a new dog owner or a seasoned enthusiast. From nutrition tips to behavioral troubleshooting, Dr. Paola is here to offer expert guidance on all things related to your canine companion. So, sit back, relax, and let’s dive into the world of dog care together.
How Do You Know When “It’s Time” to Say Goodbye to Your Pet?
Dear Dr. Paola,
I’m struggling with the decision of when to let go of my beloved Boots, a 16-year-old Bichon. He’s dealing with arthritis, incontinence, and a loss of mobility, and I’m unsure if he’s in pain or just seeking comfort. I want to make the best choice for him, but it’s challenging. Can you provide some guidance? – Pam
Pam, your love for Boots shines through your words, and I empathize with the difficulty of this decision. Deciding when to say goodbye to a cherished pet is one of the toughest challenges pet parents face. Evaluating Boots’ quality of life is crucial. Factors like mobility, appetite, pain control, and overall happiness play a role in this assessment. Whining, incontinence, and decreased mobility are signs that Boots may be struggling, possibly due to pain or discomfort beyond arthritis.
Consider whether Boots still finds joy in his daily activities, whether his good days outweigh the bad, and whether his suffering outweighs his moments of happiness. Consulting with your veterinarian and utilizing tools like the “Quality of Life Scale” can provide clarity on his condition and help you make an informed decision. Remember, choosing euthanasia is an act of love and compassion to prevent prolonged suffering. Reach out to veterinarians at PangoVet for additional support and guidance in this challenging time.
My Dog Keeps Licking Her Lips: Understanding Your Pet’s Behavior
Dear Dr. Paola,
My dog Pip has been licking her lips excessively, even waking up to do so. This behavior occurs throughout the day, regardless of her activity. Could there be an underlying issue causing this? – Shelley
Shelley, Pip’s persistent lip licking could indicate an underlying problem, such as nausea, discomfort, or anxiety. Since the behavior is not limited to specific situations, it’s essential to rule out medical causes like oral pain, gastrointestinal issues, or dental problems. Consult your veterinarian for a thorough examination and diagnostic tests to identify the root cause of Pip’s behavior. Recording a video of her lip licking can aid in the diagnosis process and guide appropriate treatment.
My Dog Keeps Burping: Addressing Your Pet’s Unusual Behavior
Hello Dr. Paola!
Lucy, my dog, has developed frequent burping, especially in the presence of others, following her epilepsy medication. Is this a normal occurrence, or should I be concerned? – Kacey
Kacey, Lucy’s increased burping, coupled with her epilepsy medication, warrants investigation. While occasional burping is normal, a sudden rise in frequency may signal an underlying issue like acid reflux or gastrointestinal disturbances linked to her medication. Consult your veterinarian to explore potential causes and consider adjusting her medication or diet to alleviate her symptoms. Implementing strategies like feeding smaller meals and using slow feeders can help manage Lucy’s burping episodes.
Dr. Paola’s Dogster Advice: A Comprehensive Resource for Your Dog’s Well-Being
In conclusion, Dr. Paola’s expert insights offer a valuable resource for pet owners navigating the complexities of dog care. From making difficult decisions about your pet’s health to addressing unusual behaviors, Dr. Paola’s guidance emphasizes compassion, love, and informed decision-making. Remember, your pet’s well-being is a top priority, and seeking professional advice can provide clarity and support in challenging times. Stay tuned for more engaging discussions and expert advice in our weekly Ask Dr. Paola series.
