30 Veterinarians Share Things All Pet Owners Should Be Aware Of

Bringing home an animal is a huge responsibility. After all, you're committing to caring for another life. And while it's impossible to know everything, some undertake this challenge without any qualification.

To find out what are some of these shortcomings, Reddit user u/mrktx21 uploaded a question to r/AskReddit: "Veterinarians of Reddit: What is one thing you wish people would know/understand about their pet?"

The post immediately went viral and already has over 31,000 upvotes and nearly 7,000 comments, many of which provide useful information to pet owners, giving them a better understanding of their companion!

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30 Veterinarians Share Things All Pet Owners Should Be Aware Of Cats. Can’t. Be. Vegan.

[SHUT UP] with your “well I’m vegan and I want my pet to be vegan too!!”

THEN GET A [FREAKING] RABBIT

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Ember 3 years ago

This is so true and makes my blood boil when I hear of the stupidity of some pet owners

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With Valentine's Day just around the corner, the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) is eager to share tips with pet owners to keep their furry companions happy and healthy, including which toxins to avoid and fun DIY treats for pets so they can safely join in on Valentine's fun.

Turns out, the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center saw a 30% increase in calls during the week of Valentine's Day last year when compared to other weeks. Many of them involved chocolate, xylitol, and even indoor plants. Below you will find a list of the top toxins pet owners should watch out for to ensure their pet's Valentine's Day is just as special as theirs.

30 Veterinarians Share Things All Pet Owners Should Be Aware Of I am a vet. Do not get a cat and then expect me to amputate its toes because you don't want it scratching the furniture. I refuse to perform declaws on cats because most of the time it is a mutilation for the cosmetics of a couch. There is no medical benefit to the animal.

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Ember 3 years ago

This horrific practice should be illegal everywhere

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First, xylitol. "Many types of gums, candies, and even peanut butter listed as 'sugar-free' can contain the sugar substitute xylitol, an ingredient that can cause hypoglycemia in dogs and lead to other severe conditions such as liver damage and even death," ASPCA told Bored Panda in a statement.

Next, chocolate. "Make sure to keep pets away from the chocolate - light, and dark. Methylxanthines are caffeine-like stimulants that affect gastrointestinal, neurologic, and cardiac function—they can cause vomiting, diarrhea, hyperactivity, seizures and an abnormally elevated heart rate."

30 Veterinarians Share Things All Pet Owners Should Be Aware Of Dogs prefer their ears and tails intact.

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Tantalum_Radium 3 years ago

They have evolved to have ear flaps to keep debris out of their ears and tails to communicate... only a monster would hack them off.

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Then, something that contributes to a lot of humans too. Alcohol. "Never leave alcoholic drinks unattended and clean up spills before your pets get to them first. Because animals are smaller than humans, a little bit of alcohol can do a lot of harm, causing serious, life-threatening issues."

It's a good idea to think of pet-safe bouquets as well—not all flower varieties are safe for cats and dogs. Consider checking out ASPCA's extensive list of toxic and non-toxic plants before you send a floral arrangement to your special someone.

30 Veterinarians Share Things All Pet Owners Should Be Aware Of From my former vet tech girlfriend, don’t leave your pets to be euthanized without you. It’s hard to be there and it’s hard to watch, but if you leave them they will die scared and looking for you. She had to try and comfort pets whose owner’s couldn’t bring themselves to stay and it’s one of the few things that makes her cry.

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Azure Adams 3 years ago

It will hurt more in the long run to not be there than to be there for your animal friend - from a grief therapist

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30 Veterinarians Share Things All Pet Owners Should Be Aware Of About their pet, the best one I know is one I heard a while ago: You have your life, your job, your friends, your family to provide your social interaction per day. Your dog only has YOU. Interact with your dog for more than five minutes per day and maybe your dog will not go out barking every five seconds.

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Ember 3 years ago

Pets are not accessories, they are living beings

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30 Veterinarians Share Things All Pet Owners Should Be Aware Of Your dog doesn't "want to be a mom" or experience the "joys of motherhood"

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Ember 3 years ago

Neutering your pets is the responsible thing to do. There are enough unwanted pets in shelters and roaming the streets without bringing more into the world.

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30 Veterinarians Share Things All Pet Owners Should Be Aware Of Don't buy a dog only because you like the way it looks. Huskies and most sorts of shepherds are working dogs. They need lots of activities to be happy and they often turn aggressive, if they do not get enough of it!

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Periwinkle 3 years ago

Preach. They are massive dogs, LOOK AT THEM! they obviously need lots of space and walks to make sure their mind is cleared and they can function happily.

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Apple Cheesecake. You'll need: graham crackers, applesauce, and low-fat cream cheese.

Step 1: Place one spoonful of cream cheese into the puzzle toy. Holding it upright, tap the bottom against the countertop until cream cheese drops to the bottom;

Step 2: Break ½ of one sheet of graham crackers into chunks and place them into the toy. Then place one spoonful of applesauce into the toy and let it fall on top of the graham cracker chunks;

Step 3: Top with 1-2 spoonfuls of cream cheese.

30 Veterinarians Share Things All Pet Owners Should Be Aware Of Don't complain about your dog not having boundaries when you're literally feeding them scraps off your plate at dinner time! That's 100% on you.

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Ember 3 years ago

Very true...and not just dogs either

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30 Veterinarians Share Things All Pet Owners Should Be Aware Of I am a vet. I wish people just even had a BASIC understanding of dog or cat body language. Ffs. The number of videos posted on reddit of animals in distress and its tagged as "oh my little fluffster is so cute when he plays!" Or whatever makes my blood boil. That kind of moronic ignorance is what gets children bit by the pet dog or the cat who is now dying because the owner had no idea of the signs 4 months ago.

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Monty Is Fiennes 3 years ago

Stopped watching YouTube animal vids because so many freak me out. Why do people treat their pets like that.....

72points

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Nutty Monkey. You'll need: frozen bananas, peanut butter (without Xylitol, of course!), and plain yogurt.

Step 1: Place one spoonful of peanut butter into the puzzle toy. Holding it upright, tap the bottom against the countertop until the peanut butter drops to the bottom;

Step 2: Place a frozen banana chunk into the toy; push and force if needed. Then place one more spoonful of peanut butter and tap again until it drops further in;

Step 3: Top with 1-2 spoonfuls of plain yogurt, then 1 last spoonful of peanut butter.

Caring for a pet is something we learn all our lives. But we need to know the fundamentals. For comprehensive pet grooming guides, nutrition information, safety tips, and more, visit ASPCA.

#10

30 Veterinarians Share Things All Pet Owners Should Be Aware Of Having a pet is a luxury, not a right. If you can't afford unforeseen medical problems or pet insurance, please don't get a pet!

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Foxxy (The Original) 3 years ago (edited)

I get this and agree for the most part but sometimes the unforeseen medical problems cost so much that you literally need to get a loan for it. Our dog needs surgery that is going to cost us $7000. We have literally just spent over a thousand dollars already on consults, x-rays, pain meds, antibiotics etc. $7000 is a LOT of money and the majority of pet owners wouldn’t just have that kind of money lying around. And pet insurance is a load of crap. Even CHOICE Australia doesn’t recommend it, and that is saying something. Maybe if vets did payment plans then it wouldn’t be a huge issue but they don’t. The vets are part of the problem with their high costs and lack of financial help such as payment plans.

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#11

30 Veterinarians Share Things All Pet Owners Should Be Aware Of My wife is a vet. She says that a lot of people tell her they want their dog to experience child birth at least once. It’s a horrible and traumatic experience for dogs because they not only have to go through pregnancy and labor, but they have to give up their babies.

Spay and neuter your pets.

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Ember 3 years ago

I can’t stress enough how important it is the have your pet neutered/spayed

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#12

30 Veterinarians Share Things All Pet Owners Should Be Aware Of KNOW YOUR BREED!!! Don't complain about your dog being too energetic or destructive when you keep them cooped up in a cage for 12 hours a day!! A Labrador is a working dog - he needs a job to do!! A husky is a snow dog - don't own one in Florida!! German Shepherds shed ALOT - don't complain about the hairballs!! DO YOUR RESEARCH 1st!!

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Ember 3 years ago

Research and educating yourself should be mandatory before owning any pet

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#13

30 Veterinarians Share Things All Pet Owners Should Be Aware Of If you see a stray cat with a cleanly clipped ear tip do not take it to a shelter. Either take it home to live with you or leave it on the street.

Clipped ears mean they were caught, neutered/spayed by the city/county, and released. This is a way to control cat populations and, over time, protect wildlife. They compete for resources with fertile cats without adding to the population.

In many cities, stray cats are more likely to be adopted from the street than in the shelter. If the cat is taken to a shelter they cannot legally release it because it is now abandoning the animal. That cat will be euthanized, or at best absorbs resources until it finds a home.

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graye b 3 years ago

TNR ear tips do not look like this, they are much smaller and only clip off a quarter of an inch

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#14

30 Veterinarians Share Things All Pet Owners Should Be Aware Of They rely solely on you for care. For everything. You are their everything. Don’t f**k it up.

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Chelle Jones 3 years ago

The kindest thing you can do is lovingly give up an animal you can not care for. Adoption is hard but sometimes that's the most loving resource available.

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#15

30 Veterinarians Share Things All Pet Owners Should Be Aware Of RVT here. There are sooo many.

1. It is not cute or sweet to have an obese pet. It can cause joint issues and heart disease among many things. Stop showing love through over feeding (especially human junk food).

2. Dogs are living creatures who need preventative medical care just like you do. And sometimes they get sick like you do. If you can’t contribute the bare minimum to take care of them, maybe you should think again about owning one.

3. GET YOUR PUPPY ITS DAMN DISTEMPER/PARVO VACCINES.

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Ember 3 years ago

...and get your pet neutered! Unless you’re a breeder, there’s NO NEED to bring more unwanted puppies/kittens into the world.

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#16

30 Veterinarians Share Things All Pet Owners Should Be Aware Of Not a vet, but my mom was a vet tech for years and I've been an animal profession for awhile now.

Cats DO NOT do things because they are mad at you. Your cat did not poop on your boyfriend's pillow as revenge for being yelled at, and they certainly did not pee on your clothes because they're mad you didn't feed them on time. Cats are creatures of habit and prefer routine to feel safe, so when you have drastic changes in behavior (such as eliminating outside the box), it's typically due to one of two reasons: environmental changes or a medical issues. If you cannot think of anything in your home environment that's changed, then you need to get them checked at the vet.

Neither milk nor tuna from a can are good treats for you cat, despite the stereotype.

Unless it's for a legitimate medical reason, declawing cats is cruel. If you don't want cats clawing your furniture, but can't be bothered to do the bare minimum of just researching how you can prevent it, then don't get a cat. Don't have a completely unnecessary medical procedure done on your cat simply because you don't want to be inconvenienced.

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troufaki13 3 years ago

Some people see their pets as accessories and can't be bothered to spend some time with them. I bet it's the same people who see their children as accessories also. :(

34points

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#17

30 Veterinarians Share Things All Pet Owners Should Be Aware Of If your cat or dog was hit by a car and is whining and limping, when you bring them in and get asked when the accident happened, the damn answer best not be ‘oh, 4-5 days ago, but I haven’t had time to bring him in’

Source = wife is a surgical vet nurse

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Ember 3 years ago

Are people really that stupid? If it were a child hit by a car, would they wait a few days before seeking treatment?

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#18

30 Veterinarians Share Things All Pet Owners Should Be Aware Of Your rabbit is not a f**king hamster.

It needs actual space to run around, and not a single cage sold at a commercial pet store has even close to enough space. They need runs, and access to the house if you can.

They are incredibly social animals, so don't come to me and say you got one. They are lonely, and need a buddy. If they don't have one, be prepared to spend 6+ hours a day hanging out and socializing with them because they need the interaction.

They do not just eat pellets, 80-90% of their diet is should be hay and I'm tired of people coming in with morbidly obese rabbits as a result of the rabbit being fed nothing but calorie dense pellets and carrots.

And stop buying pugs from breeders. Bringing more of those poor suffering creatures into this world is inhumane.

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Ceredwyn Ealanta 3 years ago

Bunnies in a cage in the back garden are not happy bunnies. The House Rabbit society has excellent information on litter training and socialising a rabbit. Rabbits do need to be spayed or neutered, and will live vastly longer if this is done - otherwise they are subject to reproductive cancers. Happy rabbits dance, proink up and shake themselves about, and otherwise are very active. Bored rabbits in cages are numb and mentally broken.

46points

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#19

30 Veterinarians Share Things All Pet Owners Should Be Aware Of Vet here.

Your dog does not need to eat grain free food with massive amounts of protein because they are “basically a wolf.” No. They’re not. They’re a dog. And not only does the actual science not support the need for these trend diets, now there’s concern they’re actually doing harm, causing dilated cardiomyopathy in certain animals.

In a similar vein, we do not get any money from diet companies. Do you think I would be wallowing in my 325K of debt (no this is not an exaggeration in the slightest), driving a 15 year old broken down car, and renting without a hope of buying a house, if I were getting kickbacks? I would not. If we make a diet recommendation it’s because current science says it may help your pet.

We agonize over cases, work longer hours than we should, spend time away from our families and friends to figure out difficult cases and help the really sick pets. Taking out your anger and grief on me and my staff does nothing but tear us apart and contribute to the high suicide rate that vets and vet techs have. We are helpers at heart and it hurts when we can’t help - please be kind and don’t make us feel worse.

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Neva Nevičica 3 years ago

Some of us do know that and appreciate your time and work :)

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#20

30 Veterinarians Share Things All Pet Owners Should Be Aware Of There is no such thing as Alpha. The whole concept was based of a flawed methodology where even the researchers who wrote the book in the first place disavowed it. Simply use force free training and you and your pet will be happier for it

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Bi Kirby 3 years ago

Yah, I saw an episode on that through Adam Ruins Everything. Apparently, some researcher guy thought a pack of wolves had an older alpha, and younger wolves who followed them around, but the " Alpha " turned out to be their mom.

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#21

30 Veterinarians Share Things All Pet Owners Should Be Aware Of Not a vet but my mom is.

One thing that really frustrates her is the myth that neutering a cat will make them fat and lazy.

It reduces the amount of calories they need which means they need less food and/or more exercise to maintain the same weight. Cats generally get less energetic as they get older regardless, but most will still perk up if you make the effort to wave a toy in their face every so often.

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Periwinkle 3 years ago

Neuter the cat unless you want to become sasha from the math books. They will multiply I promise you.

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#22

30 Veterinarians Share Things All Pet Owners Should Be Aware Of Vet Nurse for 10+years....

90% of your pets behavioural issues are your fault. If you're not willing to train your pet (mostly dogs here, cats just dgaf) basic commands and getting them used to being handled then you can bet we will restrain and muzzle if need be or we will charge extra for sedation. My colleagues and I are not in the business of fluffing around whilst trying to treat your pet and or getting bitten.

What you think is cute in your large breed puppy (growling, resource guarding, biting) is not cute when it is a 30+kg uncontrollable beast.

Retractable leashes are the worst invention ever and should be banned. You have no control over your pet.

Stop letting your pet wander up to any other pet in the waiting room. Not all dogs are friendly and cats are stressed enough.

Overfeeding your pet is the same animal abuse as underfeeding.

Start a savings account for your pet if pet insurance doesn't suit. If you never need it you have money you can spend on a holiday.

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Ember 3 years ago

Fantastic advice

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#23

30 Veterinarians Share Things All Pet Owners Should Be Aware Of If your pet eats your weed stash, let the vet know. They are not going to call the police. They need to know everything they can to diagnose your pet.

D-Rock_502 , Kumweni Report

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120points

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Premislaus de Colo 3 years ago

Dogs and cats can't metabolize THC. It's not only that they eat your stash - don't smoke in company of your pet and FFS don't blow your smoke at your pet!

37points

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#24

30 Veterinarians Share Things All Pet Owners Should Be Aware Of Ripping your cat's claws out to preserve your furniture is absolutely disgusting and inhumane.

Don't justify it by saying that at least you're giving him/her a good home. You're depriving the animal of one of the core essence of being a cat!

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Ember 3 years ago

This barbaric practice should be illegal everywhere and in this day and age I’m surprised it isn’t.

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#25

30 Veterinarians Share Things All Pet Owners Should Be Aware Of Vaccines you get at the drug store on the corner or the feed and tack shop ARE NOT as good or the same as the ones you get at the vet.

Just because your dog is scratching its ears does not mean it has ear mites.

Your cat is not urinating outside the box because its a jerk ( it might be) it probably has an infection.

Not eating for 3 days while vomiting and having diarrhea is a huge deal! That 5lb chihuahua or even 80lb lab cant lose that many fluids without having any intake and be ok and neither would you.

misssnorlax , John Donges Report

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Ember 3 years ago

Educate yourself as a pet owner. Many minor problems can be treated easily at home without huge vet bills. There are many books on pet health, but make sure your pet sees a professional if you’re unsure.

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#26

30 Veterinarians Share Things All Pet Owners Should Be Aware Of That they are NOT human. Anthropomorphizising your pet often leads to behavioural issues ( small dogs being treated like babies makes them feel they're pack leaders, no your dog is not smiling, he's [fricking] stressed, no, your dog is not guilty, he's terrified of punishment). So for the love of all your deities... Love your pet as if it was your child and treat it how it deserves to be treated - through communication it understands!

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J. F. 3 years ago

Took care of my sisters cat - her now ex-husband was kinda rough with the cat and it took me two month to gain her trust.

28points

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#27

Woah, I rant about that so many times to my coworkers lol.
1. Having an obese pet is NOT cute.
2. Even if your pet is a darling at home, it still can bite me and you shouldn't judge me if I put on a muzzle (even more if it's a big, angry dog/cat).
3. Your pet has moods, just like a human.
4. Any change in behavior of your pet should be critically looked at. Why is it that your pet suddenly growls/bites when you touch it in a special place? Could it have pain there?
5. Argh dunno how many times I said that but most people bring in their pet when it's too late, I had so many cases where I had to use much more expensive treatment cause Karen was too lazy to come here with her cat who obviously had a tumor.
6. I wish people would understand a pet is not a toy for your children you buy and stuff away whenever you're done with it.
7. It's NOT cool to make your dog into a killer machine. Especially if I - the vet - have to give it a shot etc.

Yeah... sometimes I highly doubt some people should be allowed to even own stuffed toys...

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Walter 3 years ago

this makes me a sad walter. people don't realize that pets are not just things you watch so you can pass time once and a while. no matter the pet, as soon as you adopt it, it becomes a member of your family, just like a child. it needs DAILY ATTENTION, not just some food, water, and a couple ball tosses. they're LIVING BEINGS, not an entertainer!!!!!!!!

26points

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#28

30 Veterinarians Share Things All Pet Owners Should Be Aware Of The internet is not a place for you to self-diagnose and treat your pet. I saw way too many things happen to pets that didn't need to. Like putting oregano or oil in your dog's ear to treat an ear infection.

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Periwinkle 3 years ago

My dog has an ear infection and an eye infection, we consult vets and get the medicine. It's working and he is now turning 12 this year. On valentines day, actually.

36points

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#29

30 Veterinarians Share Things All Pet Owners Should Be Aware Of It’s not cute to have a dog that obsessively protects you. It means they see you as a resource to guard. Nothing more than a toy or bone. They are supposed to belong to you, not the other way around.

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Chelle Jones 3 years ago

It's not pleasant for your neighbors either.

32points

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#30

30 Veterinarians Share Things All Pet Owners Should Be Aware Of Veterinarian here.
Getting and relying on medical advice from breeders and groomers (with no medical background). I once saw a rat terrier with a fractured humerus, which typically requires surgical correction. As I stepped out of the room to check availability with a surgeon, the client called the dog’s breeder who said not to follow my advice and to “just put the dog in a sling” and that she’s “done on her own dog's plenty.”

Also, not exercising dogs enough. Many behavioral problems can be solved with ample exercise daily.

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Periwinkle 3 years ago

I once saw an episode on an animal rescue program where a horse was bought from a horrible, deep scumbag who told the new owner the horse only had a small pain in their feet and could be treated easily. The rescue had to come because the horses hooves were curved in, I think. I also remember that the horse died or something else very tragic.

21points

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#31

30 Veterinarians Share Things All Pet Owners Should Be Aware Of Worked at a pet clinic for a couple of years and there are waaay to many people who buy cattle dogs/shephards and don't give them the attention/exercise they need. Then they want to know why the dogs are stressed, tearing everything up and running away. Don't get a working dog if you aren't up to the challenges necessary to meet their needs. Get a pet that fits with your lifestyle, not just one that's popular or intelligent or "the kind you always wanted". These are living beings with feelings, emotions and needs, not a fashion accessory or tool to get internet points.

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Ember 3 years ago

There is a mountain of information out there on different breeds and their characteristics, find the breed that is most suited to your lifestyle/circumstances

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#32

30 Veterinarians Share Things All Pet Owners Should Be Aware Of RVN Here (U.K.).

1)Vaccinating you’re animals costs WAY less than treating them for potentially fatal diseases. If we wanted your money we would advised AGAINST vaccinating.

2) calling your pet obese isn’t fat shaming. It is no different to having a super skinny underfed animal. Under weight or overweight, this is cruel and your animal is suffering.

3) your animal will not die peacefully at home. It’ll often take days or even weeks of suffering, struggling to get up, struggling to breathe. Please put your animal to sleep when we recommend you to. We are really doing it for the best interest of your pet.

4) your pet is in pain. Just because he is eating or running around doesn’t mean he isn’t in pan. Animals live in the moment, and do not show pain as much as humans as a way to survive. They can still run around with crippling arthritis. If we tell you your pet is in pain, trust us, they are.

5) please neuter your animal. They will not lose their personality. Neuter your animal, is much cheaper than treating them for prostate/testicular cancer, or a womb infection (pyometra). Please neuter your pets.

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Ember 3 years ago

Very true. I’ve shared my home with dozens of cats over the years and have never had one die peacefully at home. You know when it’s time to take that final journey to the vets, you can see it in your pets eyes and can tell that they are suffering. It’s painful, heart breaking and difficult, but it’s the last loving act you can do for your beloved pet.

17points

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#33

“I can’t believe you pulled 12 teeth out of Lucy!”

I didn’t pull, they fell. They FELL OUT. It amazes me how many people don’t notice the discomfort their pet is experiencing with their teeth rotting out of their face. Preventative dental care is so important!

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Canadian in Cornwall 3 years ago

Well, people SHOULD be able to tell if there is decay, it stinks to high heaven !!

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#34

There are so many things, but I really want people to realize that while puppies are cute, they NEED APPROPRIATE SOCIALIZATION AND TRAINING. Especially when that cute puppy will grow up to be huge! I have seen many young dogs this year since COVID-19 has left many people with free time on their hands. They obviously aren't using this free time working on their pet's behavior though. Nothing like juvenile dogs who don't know how to walk on a leash, will literally knock you down, or will just try to bite you if you get near them. Or a young dog who is terrified of everything.

Also, update your concept of training to this century please! No self respecting behaviorist or trainer will use dominance theory or negative reinforcers like shock collars. Evidence based research has shown is this is NOT the way! It breaks my heart when people take their dog to a trainer and it gets worse because of the methodology used.

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Ember 3 years ago

It is your responsibility to ensure your pet is well trained and socialised. If this sounds like to much work, then you’re clearly not ready to be a pet owner.

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#35

30 Veterinarians Share Things All Pet Owners Should Be Aware Of What anxiety actually looks like in animals, especially dogs, and how unfair it is to the animal.

People don’t know that yawning, side-eye, lip licking, constant paw licking, etc. are signs of anxiety. That is your animal trying to speak to you and their surroundings that they aren’t ok. Over time it can escalate when they aren’t heard (up to biting) and the only way I can really intervene as a vet is some behavioural therapy but mostly through lifelong meds.

Many clients hate giving anxiety meds because it is a daily commitment and/or they don’t believe it is a big deal. They don’t think that their animal feels anxiety because they perceive the animal to have had a good life and what they do is "just a quirk." Furthermore, if they stop some of the meds the animal will be chemically resistant when you try use them again (like Prozac). Animals can’t really go to a therapist like we can but also it’s unfair to let them live in states of extreme anxiety. Think of those moments when you have a situation (or no obvious trigger) that you feel your stomach drop, you can’t focus, and you have that sense of impending doom you can’t shake. Animals feel that too.

Also don’t get me started on behaviour misinformation. Dominance/alpha theory, ignoring your animal when you come home/leave, purposely switching up your routine so they can’t "tell" your leaving. All bulls**t.

miss_fin Report

Final score:

33points

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lucy dale 3 years ago

our cat had to go on anxiety meds and she is acting so much better now that shes on them

8points

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#36

30 Veterinarians Share Things All Pet Owners Should Be Aware Of Not a vet but I worked/interned at a vet for about a year. Take care of your pet’s dental hygiene the best you can. I’ve seen many gnarly mouths and several pets that have had to have almost all their teeth pulled. Also, dental diseases can cause your pet a lot of pain.

lalaf0x Report

Final score:

33points

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Anne 3 years ago

My dog is at the vet now, getting her teeth cleaned. She's in good shape, just prevention.

7points

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#37

Absolutely do not have your rabbit in a carrot only diet. They need balance. Some of them don't even like them. Thanks bugs bunny

KAMEKAZE_VIKINGS Report

Final score:

33points

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Periwinkle 3 years ago

Hay hay, get some hay for gods sake and take care of that rabbit.

17points

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#38

30 Veterinarians Share Things All Pet Owners Should Be Aware Of Vet tech here : if you can’t afford the adoption or breeder fee, then you can’t afford a pet

Pets, especially DOGS need pet insurance. Do your research before getting a pet. They are not just something you can throw away. You would think adults would understand this but some really just don’t

travelingvettech Report

Final score:

31points

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Russell Ellwardt 3 years ago

Well, there are adults in a certain part of the world who believe that health insurance for humans is an unnecessary nuisance enforced on them by certain politicians. Sheesh.

10points

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#39

30 Veterinarians Share Things All Pet Owners Should Be Aware Of Not a vet but my sister is.

Vet care is NOT FREE. There are a crazy number of clients who think that vet care should be free because if they charge money they must "hate animals and like to watch them suffer"

Yeeteth_thy_baby , Percy Pix Report

Final score:

29points

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More Thinking Needed 3 years ago

Thus begins the debate for Universal Pet Care.

7points

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#40

If they're limping/straining/ clamping one eye shut they're in pain. They don't cry and whimper like we do.

I'm not making up how serious heartworm disease is where I live in South Texas. Yes, even for cats.

At least where I live, you won't dry out their haircoats by bathing them. Skin allergies are so prevalent here it actually really helps.

You can socialize cats and acclimate them to carriers and car rides. I encourage you to do so, it'll make their +/- 20 year lifespan so much more enjoyable for both of you!

PLEASE don't declaw you cats and crop your dogs ears.

Don't pay a backyard breeder to "rescue" a puppy or kitten from them.

Whew- looks like I had a lot to unload here!

jcdvm87 Report

Final score:

29points

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geometric_dolphin 3 years ago

Backyard breeders are... evil

1point

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#41

RVT here. Exotic animals (reptiles, birds, small mammals such as rabbits, hamsters, guinea pigs and rodents) may be easy to acquire and assumingely easier to take care of but most of these animals have very specific housing and dietary needs that need to be met and require enrichment.

Also, not every veterinarian has experience with exotic animals, and exotic animal medicine is sometimes at a premium but is still necessary. I’ve met a lot of people who get a small mammal or a small bird for like $20 from the pet store and then won’t pay for medical care because it costs way more than the pet was purchased for.

spookybunno Report

Final score:

27points

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Cori 3 years ago (edited)

Same can be said for pot bellied pigs. They fall into the gap between small, companion animal medicine and farm animal care. Not all small animal vets will treat them and not all large animal vets know much about them. Also people often don't realize how important it is to spay and neuter their pet pigs. It prevents A LOT of behavior and health problems. But finding a vet who is willing to do surgery on a pig can be difficult. That's why it's so important to find a vet BEFORE you get your pig. That was the very first thing I did before I agreed to take my two little porcine hell raisers.

4points

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#42

30 Veterinarians Share Things All Pet Owners Should Be Aware Of Ex vet tech.

Dogs and pancreatitis. It Can happen by eating the wrong food once, and it can kill an otherwise healthy dog within 2-3 days.

For the love of god. Don’t feed your dog table food. 1 intake of the wrong food can potentially cause pancreatitis. Most people think that “we rarely do it” so it’s okay to sneak some sausage to their dog during dinner

No no no. One time Can trigger it and it can be extremely deadly.

Also hand in hand with this: if your dog isn’t eating or drinking water, it needs medical attention. Don’t “wait a few days” if it isn’t drinking or eating. It will get dehydrated and it may die.

Skagem Report

Final score:

27points

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Monty Is Fiennes 3 years ago

My dog died from pancreatitis and the trauma f*cked me up for years. The vet didn't work out what it was and she died within 48 hours of first sign. She'd had a sausage....it's just not worth it....

17points

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#43

Your pet is not just there for cuddles and cuteness. They require training, proper diet, and health. Don't let your dog be a pee/poop demon just because you can't be bothered with its existence unless it gives you attention.

Satyrlove Report

Final score:

27points

POST

Arctic Fox Lover 3 years ago

YES, my mom's friend has a history of having pets and then taking crap care of them. For instance, their previous dog, Mini, was kept in a small cage (I'd say about 1x1 1/2) all day. She always peed and pooped in that cage because they didn't take the time to potty train her! I came over to play with her daughters one day, and she told us to take her out for a walk. They let her out of the cage (of course, aggressively grabbing her and forcing her into a leash) and walked her about 7 feet from the left of their doorway and back. Luckily I was there, and told them that they should walk her more. I took the leash (not snatching it out of her hand, my friend let me take it lol) and walked her all the way down the yard and then to the other side a few times, and then let her chase me around the yard. I even taught her a few tricks! I taught her to sit and to come here. And at first she didn't even need treats to do the tricks, but I thought she deserved a reward, so we gave her

11points

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#44

5yr Vet Tech Assist.

If your pet is scratching and we find flea dirt, then your pet has fleas. Just because you take 1 pet out for just a few minutes doesn't mean they can't get fleas. Accept it, treat it, prevent it.

STOP feeding table scraps. Pancreatitis sucks for everyone involved and is an expensive treatment.

Yes, we recommend heartworm prevention all year around. We are not in it for "the money". We are in the South, it doesn't stay cold enough to keep the pests away.

Your clearly aggressive animal isn't cute behavior. Period.

Klumzee Report

Final score:

26points

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#45

30 Veterinarians Share Things All Pet Owners Should Be Aware Of DON’T FEED GRAIN FREE FOOD! If your dog actually has a grain allergy it will need a veterinary prescribed diet. Don’t listen to the people at the pet stores. Grain free is causing DCM.

Sharp_Anteater_3045 Report

Final score:

26points

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lara 3 years ago

Dogs are omnivores, like humans. If you won't eat it [I don't mean dog food] because it is "old" or "smells funny" or is "moldy" do NOT FEED IT TO THE DOG. They can die of food poisoning, too.

5points

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#46

Vet in the UK - 1. the sounds that flat faced dogs make are not normal 2. there is no such thing as 'he/she is just a bit stiff but he/she is not in pain, it's just old age' if your dog/cat is stiff or slowing down on walks then it's very likely they are in pain 3. on the same note pain relief is important, yes all pain relief has side effects just like all human medication does, but please don't let your pet suffer 4. if your vet says your dog/cat needs a dental then please follow their advice, I've seen some horrendous mouths covered in calculus with teeth falling out and the poor animal's had to put up with it for years because 'he/she is still eating so his/her teeth must be fine'

gh2405 Report

Final score:

25points

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Ember 3 years ago

Dental hygiene is so important in both cars and dogs. It amazes me the amount of pet owner who don’t even think about it.

6points

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#47

Getting them spayed or neutered under six months of age is going to prevent unwanted litters, cancer issues later in life, infections (pyometra), and behavioral issues. What it wont change is them gaining height or muscle. That stuff is genetic.

misssnorlax Report

Final score:

22points

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Periwinkle 3 years ago

Thank you, Because many people needed to hear that

7points

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#48

I wished that they understand that they have a live creature that need all type of cares not just medical but environment enrichment a correct and health feeding and why not? even emotional care but the average pet owner think that him/her just have a teddy bear or something.

Badassvet Report

Final score:

21points

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Tiredpossum 3 years ago

I'd say imagine if it was your child would you keep it in a cage all day and not bother with it's health? If you said yes GTFO thank you.

3points

#49

30 Veterinarians Share Things All Pet Owners Should Be Aware Of America, don't call the vet's office to describe your own symptoms in the hope they'll let you run in and pick up some meds for ... the dog. And don't take fish antibiotics from Petmartco, either.

Thanks,

Our neighbor Dr. Lucy, DVM

AllTheyEatIsLettuce Report

Final score:

19points

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Mim Dim 3 years ago

The what?

4points

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#50

Not a veterinarian, but I am a veterinary assistant. What people often think is an "emergency" really isn't an emergency and your pet will not die that night if we can't squeeze you in for a same-day appointment. For example, if your dog has a minor ear infection, it's not gonna die if we tell you that our earliest appointment is next week and we don't have anymore available slots for the current day, especially not when we're about to close in an hour. We had a client with a GS insist that her dog needed to be seen NOW because it was an absolute emergency and that her dog was completely, 100% non-ambulatory and that she (the dog) would need to be carried into the hospital via a stretcher...Dr agreed to squeeze her dog in for an appointment during his lunch time, and guess what, the dog was walking fine and our doctor didn't find anything significant even with radiographs.

matchakuromitsu Report

Final score:

15points

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No you didn't 3 years ago

Then again, please take it seriously if your pet is not fine.

5points

What do you think ?

E Menendez 3 years ago (edited)

This post is focused on dogs and cats, so I am going to add something as an owner of hamsters - THEY ARE NOT GOOD FOR KIDS. Hamsters take a lot of work and the terrible cages sold at the pet shop are nowhere near the right size. They may be small but they need a large cage. As with any pet - DO YOUR RESEARCH. It makes me so mad that people with these pets with no understanding - even as simple as the fact that they are nocturnal. And I take them to the vet if I notice anything unusual in their health. We are obligated to care for any creature we make reliant on us for their care.

You are Beautiful (He,Him) 3 years ago

I don't think people understand how serious declawing cats is. It's not only ripping out their claw, it's making them paralyzed in their finger joints and it puts the cat through incredible pain. PLEASE DON'T DO IT!!!!!

Daniel Brodzik 3 years ago

Sad thing is, most landlords (at least around me) require proof of full declawing before a cat is allowed to live with you. But it’s like chopping their fingers off.

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Meeow 3 years ago

Good info, and that your animal will not die peacefully at home, I disagree on this one, my dog and my other cats died at home in our arms after we told them don't worry about us, we'll meet again on the rainbow bridge. And around 30 mins to 45 mins they all sleep peacefully. I would not let them died in that cold table.

Xenon 3 years ago

Every case is different. I've had pets die peacefully of old age at home, but had to take my best friend cat to the vet. He dropped like a rock at home and was in agony when I got to the vet, even with kitty morphine. He could not be saved. I damn sure didn't leave the room, I held him in my arms and was pspspspsps'ing into his neck at the end.

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