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Chip Your Pet Month: 6 Essential Facts about Microchipping Your Pet

At Animal Wellness Center, we want to ensure you have all the information you need to make an informed decision about microchipping your pet.

Chip Your Pet Month: 6 Essential Facts about Microchipping Your Pet

As pet owners, we all want to keep our furry friends safe and secure. Unfortunately, pets can easily become lost, and it can be a scary and stressful experience for both pets and their owners. That’s why May is Chip Your Pet Month, a time to raise awareness of the importance of microchipping your pets. At Animal Wellness Center, we want to ensure you have all the information you need to make an informed decision about microchipping your pet.
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Microchipping FAQs

Here are six facts about microchipping that every pet owner should know:
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1. What is a microchip? A microchip is a small device, about the size of a grain of rice, that is inserted just under your pet’s skin. The chip contains a unique identification number that can be read by a special scanner.

2. How does a microchip work? If your pet is lost and someone finds them, they can take them to a veterinary clinic or animal shelter where they will scan for a microchip. Once the unique ID number is found, the clinic or shelter can contact you and reunite you with your beloved pet.

3. Is microchipping painful for my pet? No, the procedure is quick and relatively painless. It can be done during a routine visit to the veterinarian’s office and most pets tolerate the process well.

4. Can the microchip move or fall out of place? The microchip is inserted under your pet’s skin and will stay in place for the life of your pet. The microchip is also designed to be compatible with your pet’s tissue and will not cause any adverse reactions.

5. Is microchipping only for dogs and cats? No, microchipping can be done on a variety of pets including birds, rabbits, and even reptiles.

6. What if I move or change my contact information? It is important to keep your contact information up-to-date with the microchip company. Most companies have an online portal where you can update your information, or you can contact them directly.

Protect Your Pet with Microchipping and Quality Veterinary Care at Animal Wellness Center

At the Animal Wellness Center, we believe in providing the best care for your pet. We offer microchipping services at all of our Southeast Wisconsin locations. Don’t wait until it’s too late, make sure your pet is microchipped and up-to-date on all their vaccinations. Contact us today to schedule an appointment.
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Heartworm Awareness Month: What Pet Owners Need to Know

April is Heartworm Awareness Month, a time when veterinarians and animal welfare organizations raise awareness about this potentially deadly disease.

Heartworm Awareness Month: What Pet Owners Need to Know

April is Heartworm Awareness Month, a time when veterinarians and animal welfare organizations raise awareness about this potentially deadly disease. Heartworm disease is caused by a parasitic worm called Dirofilaria immitis, which is transmitted by mosquitoes. It primarily affects dogs, but can also infect cats and other animals. If left untreated, heartworm disease can lead to heart failure, lung disease, and even death.

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Signs and Symptoms of Heartworm Disease

Unfortunately, heartworm disease is often asymptomatic in its early stages. As the disease progresses, however, dogs may begin to exhibit the following symptoms:
  • Persistent cough
  • Difficulty breathing
  • Lethargy
  • Reduced appetite and weight loss
  • Swollen abdomen (caused by fluid accumulation)
  • Pale gums
  • Collapse
Cats with heartworm disease may exhibit similar symptoms, as well as vomiting, diarrhea, and seizures. However, cats are much less likely to show clinical signs of heartworm disease, which can make it difficult to diagnose.

Diagnosing and Treating Heartworm Disease

If you suspect that your pet has been infected with heartworm, it is important to schedule an appointment with your veterinarian as soon as possible. Early detection and treatment can improve your pet’s chances of recovery.
To diagnose heartworm disease, your veterinarian will perform a blood test to detect the presence of adult heartworms. In some cases, additional tests, such as X-rays or an echocardiogram, may be necessary to determine the extent of the infection.
Treatment for heartworm disease typically involves a series of injections to kill the adult worms. This can be a lengthy and expensive process, and pets must be closely monitored during and after treatment to ensure their safety. In some cases, surgery may be necessary to remove large clumps of worms from the heart and lungs.
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Preventing Heartworm Disease

Preventing heartworm disease is much easier and less expensive than treating it. There are several preventative options available, including monthly oral or topical medications, as well as a six-month injectable medication. It is important to talk to your veterinarian about which preventative option is best for your pet, based on their age, health, and lifestyle.

Heartworm Diagnosis & Treatment At Animal Wellness Center

If you suspect that your pet has been infected with heartworm, don’t wait to seek treatment. Call Animal Wellness Center today to schedule an appointment for heartworm testing and treatment. We have 5 locations in Southeast Wisconsin, and our compassionate team of Veterinary professionals is eager to help your pets! Remember, preventing heartworm disease is the most important thing you can do for your pet’s health and well-being. Let’s work together to keep our furry friends safe and healthy!
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Protect Your Cat from Toxic Plants: Safe Alternatives for a Healthy Home

Spring is here, and with Easter just around the corner, many of us are excited to bring a little bit of nature inside our homes. However, it is important to remember that some plants can be highly toxic to our furry feline and canine friends.

Protect Your Cat from Toxic Plants: Safe Alternatives for a Healthy Home

Spring is here, and with Easter just around the corner, many of us are excited to bring a little bit of nature inside our homes. However, it is important to remember that some plants can be highly toxic to our furry feline and canine friends.
While plants are beautiful, they can pose a significant risk to your pets’ health, and it is essential to know which plants are toxic and which are safe. Animal Wellness Center is here to share some knowledge to our friends and fellow animal lovers and encourage you to read further to learn about some of the common household plants that could cause harm to your pets.
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Common Household Plants That Are Poisonous To Pets

There are many plants that are toxic to pets, and they can cause severe harm to your pet’s health. Some of the most common toxic plants for pets include:

Lilies: Lilies are highly toxic to cats and can cause kidney failure, vomiting, and even death.

Poinsettias: Although not as toxic as lilies, poinsettias can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and skin irritation.

Aloe Vera: While aloe vera can be beneficial for humans, it is highly toxic to animals and can cause vomiting, depression, and even tremors.

Azaleas and Rhododendrons: These plants contain toxins that can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and drooling in cats and small dogs.

Daffodils: Daffodils can cause vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, and even heart problems in pets.

To keep your animals safe, it is important to avoid having any of these plants in your home or garden. If you do have any of these plants, make sure they are kept in a location that is completely inaccessible to your pet.

Safe Alternative Household Plants For A Pet Friendly Home

Fortunately, there are many safe alternatives to toxic plants that you can use to decorate your home. Some of these plants include:

Spider Plants: Spider plants are non-toxic to cats and are easy to grow, making them a perfect indoor plant.

Bamboo: Bamboo is a safe and low-maintenance plant that can add a touch of greenery to your home.

African Violet: African violets are a beautiful and safe plant for pets that require minimal care.

Boston Fern: Boston ferns are non-toxic and help purify the air, making them a perfect addition to any home.

Catnip: Catnip is a safe and enjoyable plant for cats, and many felines love the scent and taste of this herb.

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Taking Care Of Your Pets Needs At Animal Wellness Center In Wisconsin

If you suspect that your pet has ingested a toxic plant, it is crucial to act fast and seek immediate medical attention. Contacting Animal Wellness Center right away can help save your pet’s life.
At Animal Wellness Center, we offer comprehensive veterinary services to pets in Wisconsin and are well-equipped to handle emergencies related to plant poisoning. Our team of experienced veterinarians can quickly diagnose and treat your pet, providing the necessary care to ensure a full recovery. Don’t hesitate to call Animal Wellness Center today if you have any concerns about your pet’s health or behavior. We are always here to help keep your pets safe and healthy!

Pet Dental Month: 5 Common Dental Issues In Dogs

One of the most important aspects of your dog’s health is their dental hygiene, and unfortunately, dental issues are a common problem for dogs. February is Pet Dental Month and our team at Animal Wellness Center is here to help raise awareness about the importance of caring for your pets oral health.

Pet Dental Month: 5 Common Dental Issues In Dogs

As a dog owner, you want your furry friend to be healthy and happy. One of the most important aspects of your dog’s health is their dental hygiene, and unfortunately, dental issues are a common problem for dogs.
February is Pet Dental Month and our team at Animal Wellness Center is here to help raise awareness about the importance of caring for your pets oral health. In this blog post we will talk about some of the most common dental issues in dogs and what you can do to prevent and treat them.
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5 Common Dental Issues In Dogs And What You Can To Prevent & Treat Them

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1. Bad Breath

Bad breath, also known as halitosis, is a common problem for dogs. It can be caused by a variety of factors, including dental disease, gum disease, or even something your dog ate. If your dog’s breath smells bad, it’s important to have their teeth and gums checked by a veterinarian. In the meantime, you can try giving your dog dental chews or toys to help freshen their breath.

2. Gum Disease

Gum disease is a common dental issue in dogs, especially as they get older. It occurs when bacteria build up in the gums and can cause inflammation, bleeding, and even tooth loss. Regular dental cleanings by a veterinarian can help prevent gum disease, but it’s also important to brush your dog’s teeth regularly and provide them with dental chews or toys to help clean their teeth.

3. Tooth Decay  

Tooth decay occurs when bacteria build up on the teeth and form plaque, which then hardens into tartar. The bacteria in plaque produce acids that can erode the enamel of the teeth, leading to cavities and tooth decay. This can cause pain, infection, and even tooth loss if left untreated. Tooth decay is most often caused by a diet high in sugary or starchy foods. Regular dental checkups and cleanings by a veterinarian can help prevent tooth decay, and a healthy diet can also play a significant role in maintaining your pet’s dental health.

4. Broken or Cracked Teeth

Broken or cracked teeth are a common dental issue in dogs, especially those who love to chew on hard objects. Broken teeth can be painful and can become easily infected. If your dog has a broken or cracked tooth, it’s important to have it treated by a veterinarian as soon as possible.

5. Oral Tumors

Oral tumors are a more serious dental issue in dogs that can be benign or cancerous and can cause pain, difficulty eating, and even death if left untreated. Regular dental checkups can help detect oral tumors early, making treatment more effective.

Treat Your Dogs Dental Problems With Help From Animal Wellness Center

Dental issues are a common problem for dogs, but they can be prevented and treated with a healthy diet and good dental hygiene. At Animal Wellness Center, we provide specialized knowledge in pet dental hygiene and can provide your pet with the best possible care during examinations. If you suspect any dental issues in your dog, don’t hesitate to contact us to schedule an appointment for proper diagnosis and treatment!

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Make Your Pet’s Life Better in the New Year With These Resolutions for Pets

If, this year, one of your New Year’s resolutions is to give your pet a better life, then consider the following New Year’s Resolutions for pets. These resolutions only involve minor adjustments to your daily routine and promise to strengthen your bond with your pet while making his or her life all the better.

Make Your Pet's Life Better in the New Year With These Resolutions for Pets

If, this year, one of your New Year’s resolutions is to give your pet a better life, then consider the following New Year’s Resolutions for pets. These resolutions only involve minor adjustments to your daily routine and promise to strengthen your bond with your pet while making his or her life all the better.
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6 New Year's Resolutions to Improve Your Pet's Life

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1. Increase Exercise
Exercise is one of the best things for your pet’s physical and mental health. Exercise activities enrich pets’ daily lives while also helping to manage your pet’s weight and stave off heart disease, diabetes, arthritis, and other weight-related health problems.
2. Get Healthier With a Better Diet
Proper nutrition and caloric intake form a primary foundation for your pet’s health. Schedule a nutritional counseling appointment to provide your pet with a personalized diet designed to meet their nutritional and caloric needs while also addressing certain health problems.
3. Play More
Play enriches your pet’s life, reduces stress, and helps them burn off energy. Plus, it bonds them to you.
4. Learn New Tricks
Both dogs and cats benefit from training sessions where they learn manners and new tricks. Sign up for a local or online training class or simply work more with your pet, using positive reinforcement training.
5. Focus on Wellness and Preventative Care
Wellness and preventative care are essential to preserving your pet’s good health. Pets should visit the veterinarian regularly (once a year for healthy adult pets and more frequently for seniors, puppies, and kittens) for routine wellness and preventative care. Additionally, talk to your veterinarian about your pet’s dental health and consider scheduling a cleaning to protect them from the dangers of periodontal disease.
6. Get a Pet Microchip
No one plans on losing their pet, but it, unfortunately, still happens all of the time. If your pet doesn’t already have a microchip, we strongly encourage you to resolve to get your pet microchipped in 2023. Pet microchips significantly increase the odds of being reunited with your pet if they become lost or stolen.

Start Your Pet's Year Right With a Wellness Exam and Preventative Care Appointment

To ensure your pet starts the year off on the right paw, we welcome you to schedule an appointment at Animal Wellness Center in Wisconsin. We can check your pet for signs of new health concerns while ensuring they are well-protected from preventable illnesses and parasites.

How to Care for a Senior Pet During Adopt a Senior Pet Month

Senior pets are just as fun and loveable as their younger counterparts, and with the right care, they can enjoy many more years of good health and happy times with their families.

How to Care for a Senior Pet During Adopt a Senior Pet Month

Senior pets are just as fun and loveable as their younger counterparts, and with the right care, they can enjoy many more years of good health and happy times with their families. November is National Adopt a Senior Pet Month, and we’re using the opportunity to encourage people to adopt senior pets out of animal shelters while also educating them on some of the specific care needs that senior pets require.
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6 Tips for Caring for a Senior Pet

1. Know When Your Pet Is a Senior
When your pet is considered a senior depends on its species and breed. Typically, cats and smaller dogs are considered seniors at age 10-11. Larger dogs are considered seniors at age 6.
2. Schedule More Frequent Checkups
We recommend biannual checkups for senior pets. This enables us to detect age-related health problems as soon as they arise so that we can begin treatment and management to slow the progression and improve your pet’s quality of life right away.
3. Request a Health Screening
It’s usually customary to run routine laboratory tests on senior pets. The results of bloodwork, urinalysis, and fecal testing can help us detect the earliest signs of disease.
4. Adjust Your Pet’s Diet
As pets age, their nutritional needs change. They typically require fewer calories and can benefit from a diet that contains nutrients designed to help address a variety of age-related concerns.
5. Modify Exercise
Elderly pets still need to stay active, but they often can’t continue the same type or level of activities they enjoyed when they were younger. We recommend swimming and going for more frequent, shorter walks rather than long treks.
6. Create a Comfortable Environment
Senior pets often suffer from joint problems such as arthritis. You can make them much more comfortable by providing elevated food and water bowls, an ergonomic pet bed, and stairs onto the bed, sofa, or into your car.
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Senior Pet Appointments in Wisconsin

At Animal Wellness Center in Wisconsin, we provide highly personalized care to each of our patients. We tailor the care they receive and our recommendations based on the patient’s breed, health history, lifestyle, and age to ensure our patients have the best chance at living a long and happy life. To learn more about caring for a senior pet or to establish your new pet’s care with one of our veterinarians, we welcome you to contact our office today.

Make Halloween Fun for Everyone (5 Halloween Pet Safety Tips)

With Halloween on the way, October is filled with fun and frightful festivities. To make sure the spooky season is fun and safe for everyone in your family, consider the following Halloween pet safety tips.

Make Halloween Fun for Everyone (5 Halloween Pet Safety Tips)

With Halloween on the way, October is filled with fun and frightful festivities. To make sure the spooky season is fun and safe for everyone in your family, consider the following Halloween pet safety tips.
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5 Pet Safety Tips for Halloween

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1. Provide Easy Identification
Dogs and cats often go missing (or can even be stolen) on Halloween. So, it’s important your pet has a collar with readable ID tags in addition to permanent identification with a pet microchip.
2. Store Treats Safely
One of the best parts of Halloween is the party treats and candy. Remember, though, that many of these goodies contain ingredients (like chocolate, nuts, raisins, and alcohol) that are poisonous to dogs and cats. Store all treats safely and keep your pets in a secure, safe room during Halloween parties so that they can’t accidentally get into anything that’s been left lying around your house.
3. Keep Pets Secure Indoors
With so many trick-or-treaters dressed in scary costumes coming and going from your yard, pets can become frightened and confused. Be sure they are not left in your yard (even if it’s fenced). Keep them safely inside for the duration of the night.
4. Create a Pet-Safe Holiday Display
Halloween decorations often involve things that can be dangerous for pets such as electrical wires or toxins. Be sure to choose decorations that are safe for your pets (i.e. no glow sticks or fake blood) and keep any wires well out of their reach.
5. Supervise Pets in Costumes
If you choose to dress your pet up in a costume for Halloween, be sure you never leave them unattended while they’re wearing the costume (or any clothes for that matter). Clothes can become caught on furniture or branches and put pets in dangerous situations. They can also be choking hazards if pets end up chewing on them.
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Microchip Your Pet Before the Big Night of Frights

If your pet does not yet have a microchip, we strongly encourage you to schedule a microchip appointment at one of Animal Wellness Center’s Wisconsin locations. Getting a microchip is a quick and simple procedure, similar to getting vaccinations, that can greatly increase the odds of reuniting with your pets should they ever become lost. To learn more or schedule an appointment for your pet, we welcome you to contact our office.

5 Tips for Disaster Preparedness Month: How to Prepare Your Pet for Emergencies

September is Disaster Preparedness Month, and that means it’s time for pet owners to take a hard look at their emergency preparedness plans. Disasters can happen anytime, anywhere, and they often have a devastating impact on pets. That’s why it’s so important for pet owners to be well prepared in advance.

5 Tips for Disaster Preparedness Month: How to Prepare Your Pet for Emergencies

September is Disaster Preparedness Month, and that means it’s time for pet owners to take a hard look at their emergency preparedness plans. Disasters can happen anytime, anywhere, and they often have a devastating impact on pets. That’s why it’s so important for pet owners to be well prepared in advance. In this blog post, we will discuss five tips for disaster preparedness month that will help keep your pet safe during emergencies.
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5 Ways You Can Prepare Your Pet For A Disaster

Identification is the first and most important step in pet disaster preparedness. Even if your pet is always wearing a collar with up-to-date tags, there’s always the chance that he or she will become lost. If your pet does become lost, a microchip can help increase the chances of being reunited with him or her. Collars and tags can also help identify your pet, but they can be easily removed or lost. By microchipping your pet, you’ll have peace of mind knowing that he or she is always identifiable, no matter what. If they don’t have a microchip, now is the time to schedule an appointment with your veterinarian to get one.

Secondly, you need to know where you will go in the event of an evacuation. If you are ordered to evacuate your home, do not leave your pets behind. The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) recommends that you take your pets with you if you can. If you must leave them behind, make sure they are in a safe place where they will have food and water and can escape danger.

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Thirdly, always try to stay together with your pet if possible. In the event that you are separated, make sure you have a recent photo of them as well as their identifying information with you at all times.

Fourth, make a pet emergency kit in advance. This should include items like food, water, bowls, leashes, collars, medications, and first-aid supplies. When emergencies hit, you do not always have time to stop and look for all the supplies you may need to care for your pet on the go, having a kit ready at all times will allow for a more stress-free exit from the disaster area.

Finally, know who to contact in the event of an emergency. If a disaster hits while you are at work or away from your home, it is crucial that you have a plan of action in place. Designate a trusted friend or family member who can check on your pet and provide them with any necessary care. Ask your Veterinarian if they have advice or options for you and your pet in case of a disaster or emergency.

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Preparing Your Pet For A Disaster With The Help of Animal Wellness Center!

By following these simple tips, our Doctors and Staff here at Animal Wellness Center are confident you can help ensure that your pet is safe and well-prepared in the event of an emergency. Take the time this disaster preparedness month to put a plan in place and give yourself peace of mind.

How to Hit the Road and Have Fun With Your Pet: 5 Tips for Car Trips With Pets

If you are planning to take a trip and bring your pets along, Animal Wellness Center is here to help give you some tips on how to prepare for the journey. These tips will help put your pets at ease the whole drive-through. Call us today to book an appointment for your pet’s clean bill of health!

How to Hit the Road and Have Fun With Your Pet: 5 Tips for Car Trips With Pets

Nothing beats hitting the open road for a car trip with your best furry friend by your side. Traveling with pets, though, is more complicated than choosing a destination and taking off; it requires careful planning and packing to make sure you and your pet have a fantastic time.
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5 Tips for Better Road Trips With Your Pets

1. Schedule Plenty of Breaks
Make sure to schedule time for plenty of breaks and plan good places to stop along the way before leaving. Be sure you have a secure harness and leash for your pet.
2. Give Your Pet a Designated Spot
Traveling with pets is safer if your pet has a spot to relax safely and securely. Small pets can travel in pet carriers. Larger pets should have a designated dog bed and vehicle harness.
3. Pack Extra Pet Supplies
Bring more food and water than you need. Remember your pet’s medications, poo bags, toys, bed, and an extra leash.
4. Don’t Roll Down the Windows
Yes, pets love to feel the breeze in their fur, but rolling down the windows actually exposes your pet to dust, debris, and allergens that can lead to eye and ear infections. It’s better to leave the windows up and crank the AC.
5. Get a Microchip Before You Leave
Pets are more likely to become afraid, disoriented, and get lost when they’re visiting unfamiliar places. Schedule an appointment to microchip your pet before you leave. Then you can have peace of mind that your pet is outfitted with permanent identification. Be sure your contact information is kept current in your pet’s microchip database.
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Make Sure Your Pet Is Travel-Ready With a Checkup at Animal Wellness Center

Before you hit the road with your pet, getting a clean bill of health from a veterinarian is a good idea. Plus, if you plan to cross state lines or travel to a different area with your pet, then it’s good to make sure your pet has all of the necessary vaccinations, parasite protection, and paperwork to ensure they can travel safely and legally all the way to your destination.
To learn more about traveling with pets or to schedule an appointment for your dog or cat, we welcome you to contact Animal Wellness Center today.

Keeping Your Pets Happy When You Are Away

Whether you’re returning to work at the office after working from home or have a pet that feels anxious when you leave, the following tips can help your pet have a happier, more content time while you’re away for any reason.

Keeping Your Pets Happy When You Are Away

Our pets are social creatures. This is one of the reasons why they love living with us, but it’s also the reason they often have a difficult time being left alone. Whether you’re returning to work at the office after working from home or have a pet that feels anxious when you leave, the following tips can help your pet have a happier, more content time while you’re away for any reason.
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6 Tips to Keep Your Pets Happy When You Aren't Home

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1. Know the Signs of Separation Anxiety  
There’s a difference between a pet being sad that you’re away and a pet that is suffering from separation anxiety. The latter is marked by severe distress, excessive vocalization, destructive behaviors, accidents in the house, and other problems. If your pet has separation anxiety, you should seek assistance with training and your veterinarian right away.
2. Puzzle Toys
Puzzle toys can keep a pet’s mind occupied and busy for hours while they work to solve the puzzle and release the treats hidden within.
3. Dog or Cat Television  
There are several YouTube channels that provide calming, engaging content that is dedicated to entertaining dogs and cats. If this isn’t an option in your home, you can simply leave the television or radio on while you’re away.
4. Chew Toys  
Chew toys are a great way for your pet to direct their instinct to chew (sometimes as a result of anxiety) toward a positive activity. Provide them with chew toys that are appropriate for their size and strength, making sure your pet won’t be able to destroy them and accidentally swallow the pieces while they are unsupervised.
5. Snuffle Mat  
A snuffle mat is a soft, grass-like feeding mat that provides a way for pets to practice the foraging skills they would use if living in the wild.
6. Safe Retreat
Be sure your pet has a safe place, like a bed, cat tree, or crate, where they can find comfort when you are away.

Lifestyle and Behavioral Counseling at Animal Wellness Center

If your pet is exhibiting behavior issues while you’re away from home, we recommend scheduling an appointment with a veterinarian at Animal Wellness Center. We can examine your pet to rule out (or address) any underlying medical conditions that could be contributing to the behavioral issues. We can then provide you with powerful training tools and pet enrichment advice to help you get your pet on the track to happy independence. To learn more or schedule an appointment, contact us today.