by Dr. Alan Mafara, Veterinarian, Owner | Jan 24, 2024 | Dogs, Pet Safety
You might think that with our relatively mild winters, walking your dog in the winter is safe in Arizona. And it is, most days of the year in many places. But we live in a big state with mountainous regions and desert valleys that can experience extreme shifts in...
by Dr. Alan Mafara, Veterinarian, Owner | Jan 19, 2024 | General Wellness, Pet Care, Pet Food
What do you think is the dirtiest item in your house? The trash can? The toilet? The door mat? It just might be your pet’s food dish. Even if you only feed your pet dry kibble, their bowl still gets dirty. The combination of saliva and food residue creates a perfect...
by Dr. Alan Mafara, Veterinarian, Owner | Dec 31, 2023 | Dentistry, Dog Health
Dogs might not live as long as we do, but they can still develop some serious—and painful—dental problems as they age. From bad breath to cavities and gingivitis, dogs can fall victim to many of the same dental issues as humans. And since dogs use their mouths a lot...
by Dr. Alan Mafara, Veterinarian, Owner | Dec 27, 2023 | Cats, General Cat Care
Even if it seems like they’re content to spend most of the day sleeping, indoor cats do need exercise. It keeps their joints and muscles healthy and it keeps them from packing on the pounds. Daily exercise provides mental stimulation, promotes good health, and...
by Dr. Alan Mafara, Veterinarian, Owner | Dec 20, 2023 | Pet Safety
Wondering whether poinsettias are poisonous to cats? Did your puppy eat the holly off the wreath you just bought while you were on the way home in the car? Several popular holiday plants are poisonous to pets, and some of them are more toxic than others. Here’s what...
by Dr. Alan Mafara, Veterinarian, Owner | Dec 5, 2023 | Cats, Dental Health
Did you know that cats with diabetes are more likely to develop dental problems? In fact, both gum disease and tooth loss are far more prevalent in cats that have diabetes. Dental problems can cause severe pain and loss of appetite, so if your cat has diabetes, dental...
by Dr. Alan Mafara, Veterinarian, Owner | Nov 30, 2023 | Cats
Have you ever watched your cat gaze longingly out the window and wondered whether they’d be happier outside? Cats need a lot of mental stimulation. When they get bored, they can become depressed, aggressive, anxious, or destructive. Fortunately, there are lots of...
by Dr. Alan Mafara, Veterinarian, Owner | Nov 22, 2023 | Dogs, Pet Food
No matter how sadly and longingly they gaze at your freshly-roasted Thanksgiving turkey, think twice before you toss your pup a slice. You might think that it’s okay to share some of your Thanksgiving turkey with your dog, because it is so healthy. However, turkey...
by Dr. Alan Mafara, Veterinarian, Owner | Oct 27, 2023 | Dental Health
Did you know that dogs need dental care, too? And since dogs use their teeth a lot more than we do, dental care is even more important. Tooth pain changes the way a dog eats, plays, and interacts with you on a daily basis. It can make them lose their appetite, ignore...
by Dr. Alan Mafara, Veterinarian, Owner | Oct 20, 2023 | Fun
From costumes to candy, Halloween can be a tricky time for pets. There are lots of hidden dangers for both cats and dogs on October 31st. Here are some important pet safety tips to keep in mind while you enjoy the festivities together. Five Halloween Pet Safety Tips...
