Best Anaheim Veterinarian

Anaheim Veterinarian Tips

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Unleash the hounds! Actually, don’t do that, but definitely don’t leave them home alone this Halloween. There are tons of dog-friendly Halloween activities in Anaheim and Orange County that you and your pet can attend together. At Brookhurst Animal Medical Center, we’ve compiled a list of events that you and your dog can both look forward to this year. Let’s get started!  

Anaheim Fall Festival Howl-o-ween Pawrade

Every year, the city of Anaheim hosts a Fall Festival filled with ghostly games, activities, and food. This year, it will take place on Saturday, October 27, near Downtown Anaheim. If your dog has a paw-rticularly impressive costume that you two would like to show off, there’s a pet parade at 2:45PM and a costume contest at 3PM. Hope to see you there!

Anaheim Plaza Trick-or-Treat

Anaheim Plaza is a shopping center filled with tons of hip, new shops and restaurants down Euclid Street. This year, they’re inviting you, your family, your friends, and your pets to trick-or-treat with them! Stop by the Anaheim Plaza Trick-or-Treat on Saturday, October 27, for face painting, a balloon artist, a live DJ, raffles, and giveaways between 11AM and 1PM.

Canine Costume Contest

Huntington Beach Downtown is hosting an entire day of Halloween festivities that includes costume contests, pony rides, petting zoos, games, entertainment, and more! The celebration starts along the first three blocks of Main Street and the first block of 5th street at the Strand between 4PM and 8PM. Pets are welcome and encouraged to participate in the canine costume contest.

Doggie Date Night at Fred’s

Every Monday night, Fred’s Mexican Cafe hosts a doggie date night. Bring your pup down to Huntington Beach and with the purchase of each human entree, the restaurant will also give your furry friend a doggie dinner as well. The two of you can feast together on their outdoor patio to get in the spooky spirit on Monday, October 29.

Pumpkin City

Still haven’t gotten your jack o’ lanterns ready for Halloween night? Not to worry, just head over to Pumpkin City in Anaheim, CA. The charming pumpkin farm has tons of gorgeous gourds to choose from as well as amusement rides, game booths, and activities that everyone can partake in. Best part is dogs are allowed in as long as they’re leashed and picked up after. Now, you can finally let your pup pick the pumpkins for once!

Anaheim Town Square Trick-or-Treat

Another spooktacular event that you and your dog can attend this year is the Anaheim Town Square Trick-or-Treat. There will be free crafts for kids, raffles, face painting, train rides, and more. Stop by between 11AM and 3PM on Saturday, October 27, to get in on the fun.

We hope you and your pet have a great time on Halloween! To keep you and your furry friends safe, we’ve also created a Pet-Friendly Guide to Halloween. Brookhurst Animal Medical Center is a veterinary clinic in Anaheim that offers attentive veterinary care to animal throughout Orange County. Contact our Anaheim vet, Dr. Lopez, if you’d like to book an appointment.

 


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According to the LA Times, a relatively new breed of mosquitoes has taken over Southern California. This invasive breed is called Aedes Aegyptai and there have been multiple reports of its migration to Orange County. Unlike other mosquitoes, they bite during the day and mostly on the lower leg and ankle region. While mosquitoes can be itchy and annoying for us, they may be a life-threatening problem for our pets. The bloodthirsty pests are known to and infect dogs and cats with microfilaria, or heartworm larvae.

What is heartworm?

Heartworm is a deadly disease that causes long-lasting damage to an animal’s internal organs. Once the worms have matured, usually within 3-4 months, they can grow up to 12 inches long and survive for many years. They can infect and cause major damage to vital organs such as the heart, lungs, liver, and kidney. Dogs are more commonly affected by heartworm disease than cats, but it’s still possible for cats to get heartworm, too. While heartworm doesn’t affect dogs in the same way, they can cause clots in the arteries, so make sure to keep your Orange County equestrians safe from feral creatures! 

Symptoms of heartworm include loss of breath, lethargy, and a persistent cough. At first, however, there may be no symptoms of heartworm at all. That’s why it’s important to get your pets seen by a veterinarian regularly.

How do I prevent heartworm?

Preventing Mosquito Bites & Heartworm in Orange County

Once your pet is old enough, start getting them tested regularly. If you’re able to catch the infection early on, you can destroy the larvae and prevent heartworm disease.

Your cat or dog veterinarian can help keep these parasites at bay by administering a shot of Moxidectin every six months. It is a neurotoxin that shocks and kills the heartworm larvae before it can reach the internal organs. Another way to prevent heartworm is feeding your pet chewables that also kill off the larvae. While these medications can prevent heartworm, they are still toxins. Ask your veterinarian about how to use them correctly, so you don’t compromise your pet’s immune system.

Since heartworm is carried through mosquitoes, it’s more commonly spread during the hot season and warm climates. By keeping your home clean and mosquito-free, you can also reduce the risk of heartworm infection for your dog or cat. For example, if you have a pool, drain it to keep mosquitoes from breeding close by.

Can heartworm be treated?

Heartworm treatment exists, but it can be costly and dangerous to administer. It is a form of arsenic that is injected into the animal to kill off the worms, but it can also hurt your pet. Prevention is the key to keeping your dog or cat happy and healthy.

Getting bit by mosquitoes is no fun, but it doesn’t mean you shouldn’t enjoy the last of the summer sun! As long as you are taking preventative measures to ward off icky heartworm, you can still go outside with your furry companion. If you have questions about heartworm or animal care, Dr. Lopez is a veterinarian in Anaheim who can help you. Make an appointment today!


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Orange County is full of fun activities whether you’re at Disneyland in Anaheim or touring historical landmarks in San Juan Capistrano. Not only are there amazing experiences for everyone to enjoy, the city is well known for its avid dog lovers and has tons of things for you and your dog to do as well. We highly recommend Orange County as a pet-friendly destination for families everywhere.

Aside from all the festivities that our county has to offer, there are also tons of lodging options that are pet friendly. Here are ten places you can check out for when you’re ready to check in!

#1 Kimpton Shorebreak Hotel

The Kimpton Shorebreak Hotel is located in Huntington Beach, also known as the “Dog Beach” of Orange County. According to the hotel’s policy, pets of all sizes, shapes, and breeds are invited to stay as long as they aren’t a disturbance to other guests. There is no additional fee for pets to stay at the Kimpton Shorebreak Hotel. Even better, you can request water bowls, bedding, clean-up bags, and treats for your pet!

While you’re in Huntington Beach, make sure to stop by one of the many dog friendly bars and restaurants on Main Street. You can also pamper your pooch at the pet spa or treat them to a biscuit from the local Barkery. And of course, the ocean is just a short stroll away, so definitely take advantage of California’s sunny weather and go for a splash in the water!

 

Pet-Friendly Hotels in Orange County

#2 La Quinta Inn & Suites

The La Quinta Inn & Suites are a chain of hotels that have multiple locations throughout Orange County. What’s great about that is each of their locations are pet-friendly! Whether you’re staying in Buena Park, Anaheim, Santa Ana, Irvine, or Costa Mesa, rest assured because they’ll welcome your cats or dogs at no extra cost. We do recommend calling beforehand to check if there are any limits on weight or number of pets allowed since the policy varies at each location.

For anyone staying in the Northern Orange County area, there’s tons of entertainment to be found. Guests often recommend spending a day at Knott’s Berry Farm Theme Park or seeing a joust at Medieval Times in Buena Park. We do advise that you leave your furry friends at an animal daycare rather than in the hotel room if you choose to go to any of these events. It can be boring stuck inside all day!

#3 Motel 6

For anyone looking for a more affordable but equally hospitable place to spend the night, Motel 6 has a few branches of motels in Orange County that offer free board for pets. As long as your pets are well-behaved, you can keep them with you on your vacation! You can find these motels scattered throughout Orange County in cities including Anaheim, Irvine, Santa Ana, Costa Mesa, Orange, and Newport Beach. Usually, they’re strategically positioned right in the middle of bustling downtown areas. For example, the Anaheim Motel 6 is right by the Angels Stadium and the one in Irvine is just a short distance from Irvine Spectrum, where you can take a ride on the ferris wheel for a gorgeous view of Orange County. Definitely consider a Motel 6 if you and your pet plan on exploring the bigger cities!

Pet-Friendly Hotels in Orange County

 

#4 Hotel Peppertree

This cozy, boutique hotel offers all the perks of other hotels in a more suburban region of Anaheim. The calm hotel is perfect for pets and owners alike to relax for a weekend. The staff is happy to accommodate up to 2 pets per room for $25 a night.

Just around the corner of this hotel is Dad Miller Golf Course for a calming afternoon on the range. If you want to take your dog out for a walk, there’s also a park on Brookhurst Street a little further down.

#5 Hyatt House Irvine

Flying in from John Wayne? Hyatt House Irvine is conveniently located right next to the airport. The hotel will board your pet if it is under 50 pounds or if you have two pets, they will take both as long as they are less than 75 pounds combined. Their policy for pets varies depending on how long you stay so call beforehand to get an estimate!

During your stay, you can also venture to a few of the great hikes that the city offers. Red Rock Canyon, Turtle Rock Viewpoint, and Quail Hill Treehead are just a few places to get started. Irvine also boasts a well kept dog park called Central Bark which is great for socializing with other dogs and dog enthusiasts. When you’re out and about, don’t forget to hydrate and stay in the shade!

 

#6 Blue Lantern Inn

This Dana Point Bed and Breakfast is the perfect, cozy destination right by the beach. At Blue Lantern Inn, you can keep up to two dogs per guest room with a reservation and $65 fee paid in advance. They do have limited pet-friendly rooms, so call well ahead of time.The inn offers breathtaking views of the ocean and access to tons of pet-friendly restaurants, trails, and the gorgeous Dana Point Caves.

#7 Hilton Hotel

Not only is the Hilton a well known, upscale hotel, it’s open for pets! For a $50 fee, you can keep up to two pets in your room as long as they are less than 75 pounds combined. There are multiple branches of the hotel in Irvine, Costa Mesa, Anaheim, and Santa Ana.

Pet-Friendly Hotels in Orange County

 

#8 Renaissance Newport Beach Hotel

If you have smaller pets, Renaissance Newport Beach Hotel might be the perfect place for you. You can keep two pets up to 50 pounds cumulatively per room for a flat rate of $50. The hotel boasts beautiful decoration, modern architecture, and friendly staff who are happy to help you with your pets.

A fantastic event for dog-owners in Newport Beach is the annual Corgi Beach Day, where all corgis and their owners meet up for a day of fun in the sun. Similarly, Yappy Hour is an event that’s hosted monthly by local establishments for owners to their dogs mingle and play with each other. There’s also Muttropolis located at Fashion Island if you’d like to pamper your pooch at a fancy dog boutique.

#9 Red Lion Hotel

At Red Lion Hotel, two pets of any size are allowed to stay with a nominal fee of $15. The hotel is right by downtown Anaheim. Guests can easily bring their pets to the Packing House or La Palma dog park in their spare time.  

#10 Air BnB

If all else fails and you don’t think any of these hotels are a good fit, tons of people welcome guests into their homes via Air BnB. Simply filter out all the pet-friendly options and send the owner a message about precious pet beforehand. Orange County is full of animal lovers, so we have no doubt you’ll be able to find the perfect place to stay.

No matter where you choose to stay, Orange County has tons to offer you and your pet(s). Remember that in hotel rooms, hostels, or Bed & Breakfasts, dogs and cats shouldn’t be left alone too long. If they get restless or anxious, they could do serious damage to the property and leave you with huge fees to pay afterward. Worse, they could hurt themselves or others! To avoid such scary situations, keep your pets safe and healthy when traveling with supervision and preparation.

If you find yourself needing a veterinarian during your stay, Brookhurst Animal Medical Center is a veterinary practice located in Anaheim and we are here to help. We know animal emergencies can be stressful and unexpected. We’re here to make those situations more manageable and help your pet no matter what.

Pet-Friendly Hotels in Orange County


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July 24, 2018 CatsDogsPet Care

Pets are a lot of work. From having to keep them clean to cleaning after their messes, dogs and cats can become a huge commitment, but you may also find your life very disorganized after getting a pet. Many American households may find themselves with a variety of animals, from dogs to reptiles. Cleaning after them and keeping an organized structure may become difficult when you don’t know the ins and out of living with mini pigs, birds, cats, reptiles, and such.

Don’t fear, maintaining your pets is not as hard as you think. Here is a list of tips that help when trying to live an organized life when your household has cats and dogs.

To stay organized with multiple pets, it’s best to separate and organize all pet belongings. It starts with veterinary organizing appointments to bedding designation; pet living must be kept organized to help the owner and pet’s happiness.

Organization for Cats and Dogs:

Medication and Record Organization:

We, humans, keep files of paperwork of our health records, taxes, and other necessary paperwork, so why don’t we have a place for our pet records? Pet records include adoption records, traveling paperwork, veterinary visit history, microchip records and any other documentation needed to keep your pet safe and healthy. Keeping separate folders that contain information for each pet will help in case of any unexpected event.

Many pets require medication given to them daily. Organizing the medicine will make it easier to administer medication and lower the risk of feeding the wrong medication. Making it a part of your everyday routine will make it easier to remember to give it to your pet

Organization Tips for Living with Multiple Pets

Pet Supplies and Toys Organization:

It starts with just one squeaky ball, but suddenly, toys and pet supplies multiply, and soon, you are tripping over chew toys and stepping into your dog’s water tray. It is important to remember to maintain pet belongings just as organized as you maintain yours.

  1. Separate Feeding Location: If there is ever tension between your pets when they eat next to each other, it might be a good idea to provide a separate feeding location to avoid food hostility. This will allow peaceful eating because all pets have different styles of how they eat their food. It is also recommended to pick an appropriate location to store your pet’s food bins.
  2. Storing and Separating Pet Toys: Our pets are very territorial, so providing separate toys for each pet will decrease the possibilities of disagreements between pets. We don’t know how many toys we own, but having a selected place where all of them end up at the end of the day will make cleaning less stressful. This also lowers the chances of losing your cat’s favorite feather toy!
  3. Litter Box: Provide a litter box for each cat. Cats will appreciate you for their clean litter box. If you want to go the extra mile, train your cat how to use the toilet!
  4. Multiple Beds: It all starts with a success ful slumber. Providing Multiple Beds around the house will allow each pet to have their space that will enable them to nap and rest. When there is a lot of sharing that needs to be done between the pets, it is helpful to give each pet something that is just theirs. Providing multiple beds will also make the sofa less tempting for your pets.

 

Organization Tips for Living with Multiple Pets

 

Additional Organization Tips:

 

 

Protecting Furniture

There is that one thing that we all hate as dog owners: dog shedding. Some shed excessively, leaving hair everywhere. One way to maintain it is by placing fleece blankets and throws around your home. This gives your living room a trendy look that also hides the hair. If you are allergic to pet hair, you can control your pet allergies with an air purifier. 

Achieving Control

Depending on the canine you own, at times you may find yourself trying to accomplish a task, but your three pets running around the house can make it very difficult. Having baby gates will provide a space for the dog and allow you to cook or clean without complications.

Lastly, more pets mean more fun times, love, and attention! Not just more messes. Make sure you, as an owner, are prepared to provide the quality of care each pet desires.

Difficulties may arise when a household fosters several pets, but the memories and love are unmeasurable. Organize and maintain for your pets as you would for your belongings, and this will help keep an organized life while owning several pets. Organize your next pet appointment with Dr. Lopez, an experienced veterinarian in Orange County, to make sure your pets are healthy and happy! 


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July 16, 2018 CatsDogsPet Care

Does This Human Make Me Look Fat?

Approximately 2 out of 3 American pets are considered overweight or obese. According to a 2017 study from the Association of Pet Obesity Prevention, 56% of cats and 60% of dogs are overweight due to poor diet and lack of exercise. Despite the recent push toward healthy, balanced eating for humans, there has been significantly less information about how to improve the diet and lifestyle of some of our most beloved family members, our pets. Without nutritious food and exercise, animals can easily develop costly and even life-threatening health problems such as diabetes, kidney dysfunction, respiratory disorders, or worse.

How to Know Your Pet is Overweight

The first step to solving pet obesity is identifying pet obesity. Your dog’s pot-belly might be kind of adorable, but could it also be a sign of poor health. Sometimes, it can be difficult to differentiate between a little puppy fat and a serious underlying problem. Here are a few symptoms of pet obesity you can keep an eye out for:

 

Addressing Pet Obesity in America

  • No palpable rib cage                 
  • Lethargy
  • Shortness of breath
  • Overeating
  • Weight gain
  • Waddling

Like humans, all animal body types are different, so make sure to do your research on the healthy size for your pet’s breed. Some dogs are naturally lean and others are perfectly healthy couch potatoes. If you’re still not sure, you can always take your pet to a veterinarian for a professional evaluation.

What to Feed Your Pet

Unfortunately, there are few regulations on pet food to ensure animals are receiving the nutrients and vitamins they need. A lot of products in the market are low-quality and unhealthy for animals. Many owners are unaware that their cat or dog’s favorite food is the animal equivalent of eating junk food with little nutritional content. Check the ingredients before you purchase any pet food.

Avoid the following:

  • BHA (butylated hydroxyanisole), BHT (butylated hydroxytoluene), and ethoxyquin are artificial preservatives commonly used in items like chips, cereal, gum, fast food, pharmaceuticals, and cosmetics. While these preservatives can be harmless in small doses, experts recommend limiting the consumption of them because they might have low doses of potentially toxic content. It’s better to stay on the safe side and opt for a brand with minimal or no synthetic preservatives, especially if you’re feeding your pet the same thing every day.
  • Simple carbohydrates such as white flours, corn flour, and corn syrup can be unhealthy for humans and animals alike when consumed in excess. They cause a quick spike in blood sugar and don’t fill the stomach for long, which may lead to overeating. For animals like dogs and cats, who are primarily carnivores, it’s unhealthy to be eating more filler carbs than healthy protein. When these animals have too much sugar, it can have harmful effects in the long run.
  • Meat, meat-product, rendered fat, or meat byproduct are seemingly harmless, but these names typically indicate low-grade processed meat. These vague terms could mean anything from expired meat and sick animals to unwanted parts such as hooves, organs, or intestines.

Ingredients to look for:

  • Easily identifiable sources of protein such as lamb, chicken, beef, and fish are optimal for cats and dogs who need a protein-based diet. These should be the first few ingredients listed in the food. A meat source followed by the word “meal” is also a sign of quality protein.
  • Whole grains such as brown rice, quinoa, and oats can be healthy for dogs and cats. The complex carbs in whole grains are a soluble fiber that keeps your pet full and help with digestion. They can be really healthy in moderation.
  • Vegetables such as carrots, green beans, and broccoli provide nutritious vitamins and minerals that can boost the immune system. While they’re not necessary, they have many health benefits and add flavor to pet food.

To improve your pet’s diet, take a second to read the ingredients label on pet food and treats the next time you go shopping. You can also get some fresh ingredients to cook for your dogs and/or cats! It’s not 

 

as expensive and time-consuming as it seems and it can definitely benefit your pet to have some variety in their diet. Lastly, stop feeding your animals table scraps! The extra calories  add up and more often than not, human food isn’t healthy for dogs and cats.

Addressing Pet Obesity in America

 

How to Feed Your Pet

 

How you feed your pet is almost as important as what you feed your pet. Portion control is really important to regulating diet. Overeating can result in digestive problems, choking, or bloating. When dogs or cats eat t

 

oo fast, they ingest large amounts of air, resulting in discomfort and even vomiting. In the worst case scenario, they may develop Gastric Dilation Volvulus, which is when air expands in the stomach and ruptures.

Luckily, there are many ways to avoid this problem. If your pet eats dry food, you can scatter food on the floor, so your pet has to eat each piece separately. This method is only viable, however, on clean hardwood floor or concrete. You don’t want your pet ingesting any harmful chemicals, dirt, or other objects.

There are also plenty of slow feeder bowls that are designed with obstructions in the bowl your dog will have to eat around, slowing them down. For cats, puzzle balls are a great option for both mental stimulation and controlled eating. The food is placed in a ball with food inside that the cat must move around for the food to fall out of the holes. A simple way to slow down your pet’s eating is to feed them more meals in smaller quantities throughout the day.

How to Exercise Your Pet

The exercise required to maintain a healthy lifestyle depends on your dog or cat’s breed and age. Ask your local veterinarian to assess just how much is appropriate for your pet. For obese animals, so much exercise all at once can be laborious, so owners may have to slowly incorporate more and more exercise into their pets’ daily routines with time.

Typically, 30 minutes to two hours a day is a good amount of exercise for dogs. Take your dog for a walk, play a game of fetch, or go swim! It’ll be good for both you and your pup to head outside for some fresh air and outdoor activity. If you’re located around Anaheim like us, we have a list of fun things to do for you and your dog to doright here in Orange County.

Unlike dogs, cats have extremely high metabolisms that allow them to lounge about without too much consequence. Nevertheless, you should still consult your veterinarian about a fitness plan for your cat, especially if they’ve been getting a little pudgier than usual. For most cats, aim for around 15 minutes of exercise. Get some toys like yarn, a laser light, a wand, or a ball. Kittens can actually be trained to go on walks similar to dogs, but that does require proper training and equipment. Cats like to climb, so getting a cat tree could encourage your cat to exercise more.

Pet obesity is no joke! It can lead to tons of expensive, painful health issues later down the road such as liver disease or osteoarthritis. Just because your little buddy is somewhat fluffier than normal, that doesn’t necessarily make you a bad owner. Now that you know, there are numerous ways to prevent and treat obesity for pets, so they can live the long, healthy lives they deserve. If you’re worried about your pet, it’s never too late to ask your veterinarian for a checkup, pet food recommendations, and an exercise plan. If you have more questions about pet obesity, Dr. Lopez is an experienced veterinarian in Orange County who can answer your questions and help your furry friend.

Addressing Pet Obesity in America


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June 19, 2018 DogsPet Care

In the opening scene of The Secret Life of Pets, we watch as a French poodle has had enough of the classical music his owner has been playing throughout the morning. The French poodle quickly changes the music to heavy metal the minute his owner leaves for the day. He then starts jamming, headbanging to heavy metal while it blasts through the speakers. Although this is just an animated movie, a question arises. Do dogs enjoy music and more importantly, do they enjoy the music their owners enjoy playing?

We listen to a lot of music in our households. There is always music playing through the house; it can be coming from the kitchen while a meal is being prepared or in the bathroom while we pretend to be America’s next top pop star. Now, have you ever stopped and wondered, does my dog care about the music I play and how loud I play it?

A Dog’s Hearing

A dog’s sense of hearing is ranked second right after their sense of smell. A canine’s sense of hearing is four times better than the average human. Dogs can hear the frequency of 40 to 60,000 hertz, while a human can hear the frequency of 20,000 Hertz.  This means that sounds that can be acceptable for humans may be uncomfortable for many dogs.

It is easy to look around and agree that all human ears look the same. For dogs, that isn’t the case. Dog ears can differentiate in size, shape, or the amount of hair. There’s the prick-eared wolf, bat-eared corgi, drop or pendant eared basset hound, V-shaped ear vizsla and many more. It may be easier for a greyhound with rose ears to listen compared to a bloodhound with folded ears. This is just because of the fur that surrounds the ear and how the ear lays on the dog.

Not to show off, but while a human may be able to wiggle their ears, a dog has 18 muscles in each ear that makes it possible to wiggle, tilt, raise or lower, and rotate their ears. You may ask yourself how your dog heard the mailman way before he was right at your doorstep. Dogs can move their ear around to locate and focus on sounds.

Do Dogs Listen to Music?

Research conducted by Deborah Wells, a psychologist at Queen’s University Belfast shows that dogs do behave differently in response to the different music that is being played. Dogs seem to act relaxed with classical music and seem to bark and seem tensed with heavy metal. So, you may ask why it is that in The Secret Life of Pets, the French poodle seems to hate classical music but enjoys heavy metal? Is it because the French poodle is being rebellious and won’t listen to anything his owner listens to? Is it because dogs can have a sense of understanding when it comes to music and the poodle in the movie has his specific music taste?

Although music for humans is psychological, there have been studies that show that animals do share the same capacity for music as humans. An animal psychologist at the University of Wisconsin-Madison, tells us that dogs enjoy “species-specific music.”

Species-Specific Music: Tunes specially designed using the pitches, tones, and tempos that are familiar to their particular species.

You heard it here folks, dogs might as well have the ability to form their own music taste! And we thought dogs couldn’t get any cooler! Of course, this doesn’t mean that your dog has the same music taste as you do. Actually, for most animals, the music we play throughout the house is unrecognizable. Just like the hertz between humans and dogs are different, so are their vocal ranges and heart rates. Our vocal ranges and heart rates are the reasons we like certain music, and because dogs’ and humans’ vocal ranges and heart races are so different, the music we play is simply just not meant for the ears of dogs.

What Music Does My Dog Enjoy?

If you have an anxious little pup or a huge bulldog, classical music does soothe dogs! Lower frequencies calm the canine nervous systems. Dogs generally like music that is soothing.

Now, don’t go home and play classical music all day long, as you can see in the scene of The Secret Life of Pets, classical music does get boring and heavy metal may be needed. Just remember, some sounds that can be acceptable for humans may be uncomfortable for many dogs.

At Brookhurst Animal Medical Center, Doctor Carlos Lopez would be happy to help figure out if your loved furry one is having difficulties with their pinna or if the music being played at home is the problem.


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Itching to adopt a pet? Literally?

Despite the wishes of their physicians, an estimated 10% of pet owners who are allergic to their beloved animals still keep them, yet they continue to lead healthy and happy lives. By understanding why they are allergic to certain animals and choosing the right hypoallergenic pet, tons of people are able to control their symptoms and enjoy the companionship of a lifetime. In the battle against pet allergies, here’s how you can own yours – let’s break it down.

Round 1: The Source of Allergies

Many animals produce a type of protein that is found in animal urine, saliva, and dander. Some people have immune systems who can’t handle these foreign substances which is what triggers allergies. Symptoms may include symptoms like teary eyes, itching, swollen membranes and more. Contrary to what many believe, people aren’t allergic to pet hair – they’re allergic to the allergens that are present in pet hair. Allergic reactions can be caused when the allergens become airborne as well, so it’s possible to be susceptible to an allergy attack without even touching the culprit.

Don’t forget, animals can be allergic to things, too! Many dogs and cats experience allergies between each other and some are even allergic to humans. If your pet suffers from allergies, visit a local veterinarian to figure out the best course of action.

Animal Lover Vs. Pet Allergies

Round 2: How to Deal with Symptoms

Pet allergies are annoying; there’s no doubt about it. But taking certain steps can improve quality of living and minimize allergic reactions. Here’s how pet owners deal with dander from their pets:

  • Regular grooming: It’s important to bathe and brush your pet regularly to remove dirt and dander that’s building up. Pets should get their fur trimmed quite often as well to reduce shedding.
  • Air purifiers: Investing in an air purifier will get rid of the allergens floating in the air that cause allergies. Not only do air purifiers get rid of dander, they filter out dust, pollen, smoke, and most other pollutants as well.
  • Allergy medication: Pharmacies offer over-the-counter drugs such as Claritin and Zyrtec that contain antihistamines. These chemicals reduce the natural histamines in the body that cause runny noses, teary eyes, and swelling.
  • Immunotherapy: Some doctors may recommend getting allergy shots. How this works is the doctor will inject the patient with a tiny amount of the substance that they are allergic to, which should stimulate the production of “blocking” antibodies that reduce allergy symptoms. Gradually, the doses will increase and then stabilize. This option isn’t for everyone, so make sure to double check with a doctor.
  • Hygiene: Stay extra clean to avoid getting any dander in the sinus cavities, eyes, or mouth. Some good practices include washing your hands after every encounter with your pet, doing laundry every week including pillows and sheets, and vacuuming regularly. This will eliminate pet hair or mucus around the house that may be causing symptoms. Here’s some more in-depth information about how you can keep your home clean when you have pets.
  • Pet-only areas: Lastly, it may be a good idea to designate a specific area for pets to avoid getting allergens all over the house. Keep them outside or invest in a pet gate, so they’re not shedding all over the house.

Animal Lover Vs. Pet Allergies

Round 3: What Hypoallergenic Pets to Adopt

If your pet allergies are extremely serious, many pets are still available out there. According to Babble, experts have determined some animals produce less allergens or no allergens at all, making them better choices for people who are hyper-sensitive to these substances. There are tons of options out there including certain breeds of dogs, cats, fish, reptiles, birds, and more. Here’s a list of hypoallergenic pets that may be compatible with your allergies.

  • Dogs: Often, allergens are spread when dogs shed their fur around the house. By choosing a dog that sheds less and requires more grooming, it is possible to reduce the amount of fur being circulated around your home. No dog is completely hypoallergenic, but for those who are only mildly allergic, consider the following breeds:
    • Tibetan Terrier
    • Shih Tzu
    • Portuguese Water Dog
    • Soft-Coated Wheaten Terrier
    • Poodle
    • West Highland White Terrier
    • Bichon Frise
    • Havanese
    • Chinese Cresteds
    • Basenji
  • Cats: The cause of many people’s pet allergies is the protein Fel d 1 found in cat hair. Like dogs, all cats produce this protein, so none are completely hypoallergenic. However, choosing a cat with less fur and shedding can reduce the amount of protein being circulated in the air. Some breeds have less fur or finer fur which can help reduce allergic reactions. According to Catster, here are a few popular ones:
    • Russian Blue
    • Bengal
    • Devon Rex
    • Sphynx
    • Javanese cats.
  • Small mammals: Gerbils, guinea pigs, mice, and rabbits are all awesome pets because they have short fur and they shed less than dogs and cats. Since they are usually left them outside (in the case of guinea pigs and rabbits) or in a cage, the chance that allergens will spread is much lower. There are even hairless rodents and hamster available for people with extreme allergies.
  • Reptiles: Don’t be fooled by their cold-blooded nature, these creatures can be just as friendly and fun as other typical house pets. Even better, they shed no fur or dander, making them the perfect pets for people with pet allergies. There are a variety of different types of reptiles offered at pet stores such as:
    • Iguanas
    • Lizards
    • Turtles
    • Snakes
    • Bearded dragons
    • Geckos

Animal Lover Vs. Pet Allergies

  • Amphibians: Like reptiles, amphibians don’t have fur or dander. Besides being gloriously slimy, many of them are excellent, low maintenance pets for first-time pet owners. Popular amphibians are frogs, salamanders, axolotls, newts, and toads.
  • Pigs: Pigs can make great pets if you have the space and resources to provide for a bigger pet. They have hair instead of fur, so they have may be a better choice for those with pet allergies. It’s important to remember that most pigs do grow to be over 100 pounds large, so make sure that you can provide the space they need. It’s critical to do your research on mini pigs and how to properly care for them!
  • Insects, bugs, spiders, and more: These unorthodox pets produce no dander and they are very unique pets. Tons of people own spiders, ant farms, snails, and even cockroaches. Just be careful not to let them loose in the house!
  • Hermit crabs: These curious, little invertebrates are completely hypoallergenic. Hermit crabs vary in size, color, and change shells as they grow larger. However, they aren’t as low maintenance as people may believe. Hermit crabs can live over 30 years, but they need lots of space, shells, proper humidity, companions, sand, toys, and a special diet. Here’s more information about hermit crab care for beginners.
  • Fish: Fish come with different sizes, shapes, colors, and personalities. These hypoallergenic pets are a classic.

Pet allergies can definitely be in-fur-iating, but they’re no reason to eliminate the possibility of having pets altogether. There are tons of solutions available to treat them and lots of hypoallergenic pets to adopt. If you’re interested, check out your local pet shelter because there are always animals in need of loving homes. For anyone who’s already a proud pet parent, Brookhurst Animal is a veterinary clinic located in Anaheim, CA, and we are just a call away if your pet needs medical attention.


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May 16, 2017 CatsDogsPet Care

Our pets bring happiness and joy into our lives every day. We all know of the perks that come with owning a pet, including the emotional support and physical health benefits they provide us. But unfortunately, some of us just can’t enjoy spending time with furry friends without facing a stuffy nose, itchy eyes, or rashes.

If you’re allergic to animals, know that you aren’t alone. According to the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America, 3 in 10 people have allergies to dogs and cats.  A common misconception is that pet hair is the main cause of allergic reactions, which is untrue. Allergies are triggered by dander (dead skin cells), saliva, and pet urine. Some of the annoying reactions you might get include mild irritations such as sneezing, a runny nose, itchy eyes, or skin rashes.

So what can you do if you are allergic to furry animals?

We know – it’s tough being an animal lover who is allergic to animals. If you have only mild allergic reactions to animals, and they are not life-threatening, there are a few things that you can do to ease your symptoms.

1. Keep Your House Clean

The first thing you can do to alleviate your allergy symptoms is to keep your home clean. Wipe down surfaces, wash your clothing, and vacuum or mop the floors regularly. These can collect dust, pet hair, and other particles that might be causing your allergies.

2. Use Air Filters (HEPA)

Invest in a High-Efficiency Particulate Air Filter, or HEPA air cleaner, for your home. These can improve the air quality in your rooms by removing allergenic particles, relieving you of your allergy symptoms.

3. Have an Animal-Free Zone

Ideally, this zone would be your bedroom. Keeping your furry friends out of your bedroom will let you sleep peacefully, without the threat of allergic reactions. You’ll also want to create animal-friendly zones in your house as well, where your pet can roam around and play to his heart’s content.

4. Remove Carpets & Rugs

Rugs and carpets can often trap the allergenic particles that cause your symptoms. While vacuuming seems effective, it can stir up the allergens that got stuck to the carpeting and worsen your allergies. You may find it more convenient in the long run to simply remove the carpets and rugs, and replace them with hardwood floors or tiles instead. These are easier to clean, and they do not trap dust and pet hair like carpets do.

5. Over-the-counter Medication

If you have mild allergies, you are probably already familiar with antihistamines. This over-the-counter medication can relieve mild symptoms, allowing you to play with your pets without worrying about allergic reactions.

6. Allergy Shots

If you have more severe allergies and plan to have furry pets for a long time, you may want to consider allergy shots. While it takes a while for allergy shots to fully take effect, it is the most effective way to get rid of your allergies in the long run.

7. Adopt A Fur-less Animal

Lastly, if you are an animal lover looking to open up your home to a new pet, consider adopting an animal without fur. Some of your options are fish, turtles, bearded dragons, geckos, and more fur-less and featherless animals.

If you have any questions about your pet, contact our Anaheim veterinarian, Dr. Lopez, at Brookhurst Animal Medical Center. Our team is always here to help!


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