PET CARE
Choose your pet
Health Care for Dogs
What vaccinations and preventive treatments should I prioritize for my dog?
- Core vaccines (yearly): 5/8in1 and Anti-Rabies;
- Non-core vaccines (yearly): Kennel Cough; Deworming every 3 months, Tick and flea preventives (depending on brand) every 1-3 months; Heartworm preventives; Neutering
How do you care for a newborn puppy?
- 1) Assist puppy in latching onto queen’s nipple.
- 2) It is highly advisable that there would be someone watching over the puppy/kitten while breastfeeding to avoid accidents/trauma.
- 3) Make sure to induce urination and defecation on all puppies/kittens after feeding by having the queen lick on the genitals and anal area or you may do this by gently rubbing a cotton damped in clean water over the genitals and anal area.
- 4) Place puppies/kittens in a warm, dry, and clean area to avoid hypothermia as they are NOT yet able to regulate temperature at a very young age.
- 5) Encourage breastfeeding or formula feeding every 2-4 hours to avoid hypoglycemia on the puppies/kittens.
How should I care for a pregnant dog?
- Food: puppy food (high energy)
- Supplement: should include pregnant/lactating supplement and calcium supplement
- Maintain short hair/fur.
How can I spot signs of anxiety or stress in my dog,
and what steps should I take to manage it?
and what steps should I take to manage it?
- Your dog may be having some unusual behavior, restlessness, discomfort, etc..
- Identify the trigger/source of anxiety and consult with your vet how to manage this.
How can I tell if my dog has allergies or sensitivities?
- There could be redness and inflammation, difficulty breathing, itching on random areas of the body, difficulty breathing, vomiting, diarrhea, etc.
- It is also advisable to consult with your vet to avoid these in the future.
What are the symptoms of heatstroke in dogs and how do you prevent this?
Symptoms will include elevated temperature, excessive hyperemia/redness, seizures, and open-mouth breathing.
How often should I groom my dog, and what type of grooming
is essential for their coat type?
is essential for their coat type?
- Once a week for dogs with normal fur/coat and do not have skin conditions.
- Medicated bathing 2-3x a week for dogs with skin conditions.
How can I ensure my dog’s teeth stay healthy, and what
dental care routine do you recommend?
dental care routine do you recommend?
Brushing every day before sleeping. Enzymatic toothpaste helps.
Health Care for Cats
What regular grooming practices should I follow to prevent hairballs
or matting in my cat's coat?
or matting in my cat's coat?
Brushing everyday or as often as possible. Regular bathing/grooming should be done as well!
How can I identify signs of illness or discomfort in my cat,
especially since they tend to hide symptoms?
especially since they tend to hide symptoms?
Sudden change in demeanor can be one sign! Routine blood work 1-2x a year can help to detect diseases early on.
How often should I deworm a cat?
You should deworm your cat every 3 months!
What do you do if your cat has an upset stomach?
It would be best to bring to them to the vet!
What are common issues in senior cats and how to prevent them?
Kidney disease – give them proper food and make sure cat is drinking water regularly.
How often should I clean my cat’s litter box, and what type of litter
is best for their comfort?
is best for their comfort?
Every after potty is ideal. I personally prefer tofu litter.
What regular grooming practices should I follow to prevent hairballs or matting in my cat's coat?
Brushing everyday or as often as possible. Regular bathing/grooming should be done as well!
What are the best scratching post or furniture options to keep
my cat’s claws healthy and my furniture safe?
my cat’s claws healthy and my furniture safe?
Avoid furniture with easily runny fabric. Use pet friendly furniture and place scratching posts on every major area of the house.
Caring for pets, the right way
Averiel Giorgian B. Francisco, DVM
Lic. No. 10766
PPBCC Veterinary Hospital
Ensure your pet’s health and well-being with expert-backed advice from Averiel Giorgian B. Francisco, DVM. From proper nutrition to preventive care, learn essential tips to keep your furry companions happy and healthy.
