Happy Spring!
After spending the cooler months anticipating the onset of spring, it should come as no surprise that we're welcoming the seasonal change with open arms. This time of year brings so much excitement. With trees and flowers beginning to bloom and daylight savings allowing us to extend our time outdoors with our furry family members, we're looking forward to the warmer months ahead!
In today's world, there's no shortage of information out there on the various methods of caring for and understanding your pet. For every fact about dogs, there's a myriad of commonly accepted "truths" that are just the opposite. That's why in this month's newsletter, we're taking some time to debunk common pet care myths. Knowing the truth about these myths will help you keep your dog smiling from ear to ear!
Common Pet Care Myths Debunked
When someone tells you something about your pet, how do you know what to believe? With the Internet full of conflicting advice and do-it-yourself remedies, it can often be difficult to differentiate fact from fiction. Here are some of the most common pet care myths combated with cold, hard facts:
"Dogs wag their tails to show that they're happy."
While a wagging tail is often a sign of happiness, this isn't necessarily always the case. This movement can also suggest a wide range of emotions including agitation, anxiety, and even aggression, which is why it's so important to consider the context of the situation to determine your dog's mood.
"You can't teach an old dog new tricks."
This is one of the most common myths out there, but the truth behind it is that a senior dog will happily pick up new tricks and commands. With the right motivation and commitment, you'd be surprised how quickly an older pup can learn something new!
"Dogs' mouths are cleaner than ours."
If you really think about a dog's behavior and environment, the truth behind this should come as no surprise. Similar to human mouths, dogs' mouths are also filled with various types of bacteria. Many of these germs are species-specific and not of concern to humans, while others are certainly capable of causing sickness and wreaking havoc on our immune systems. So, while your dog's mouth isn't technically considered "clean," things like keeping your dog up-to-date on vaccinations and practicing good dental hygiene can help keep the more harmful germs at a minimum.
"If your dog's nose is warm or dry, it means they're sick."
Actually, the temperature of your dog's nose reveals nothing about their health. This is something that will fluctuate throughout the day depending on their environment.
These myths, along with many others, have spread over the years and have misled many pet owners. Your pet is relying on you to keep them happy and healthy, which is why it's so important to do your research and sniff out the truth. If you ever need additional guidance or have questions, don't hesitate to contact your veterinarian or our team here at All American Pet Resorts.
