Like people, there are plenty of times where increased thirst and water consumption are normal, like during hot weather or after a brisk run. But sometimes, excessive thirst can be a cause of concern. Our vets explain what’s normal, what to look out for if you’re worried, and when to bring your pet in for an exam.

What’s a Normal Amount of Water for My Dog to Drink?

A dog will drink roughly the equivalent of one ounce of water per pound of body weight every day. Dry climates, hot weather, higher physical activity levels, the amount of dry food consumed, and pregnancy or nursing can all make your dog drink more than normal.

While it can be difficult to measure exactly how many ounces your dog laps up, if their water bowl is always empty or your dog needs to urinate more often than usual, it could be a sign of dehydration.

If you’re concerned about your dog’s increased water consumption, track their water intake for 24 hours by measuring how much water you add to their bowl. This will help you get a clearer picture of how much your dog is actually drinking before you start to assume the worst.

Should I Be Worried If My Dog Is Always Thirsty?

Occasional instances of increased thirst are generally not a problem for dogs. It’s when that increased thirst doesn’t level out again that you need to pay closer attention. Many dogs may show additional signs or symptoms besides drinking more water if there’s a health problem. 

Health conditions associated with excessive thirst include:

• Diabetes mellitus
• Cushing’s disease
• Kidney disease
• Urinary tract infections

Excessive Thirst in Dogs: When to Call the Vet

While it isn’t typically necessary to call the veterinarian every time your pet drinks extra water in a day, there are some serious signs of concern that require prompt medical care. 

Contact your vet right away if:

• Your dog’s water intake suddenly doubles
• They are having accidents indoors
• They have vomiting or diarrhea that won’t stop
• Your dog is acting lethargic

Your vet may direct you to bring your dog in for a physical exam, including blood tests and urinalysis. While it can be extremely stressful waiting on lab work, getting an early diagnosis will mean you have more treatment options and a better chance of recovery. 

Excess thirst from time to time is normal, but if you think your dog is drinking too much water, you should call a vet. You know your pet better than anyone, so trust your instincts and start tracking your dog’s water intake if something seems off to you. It’s an easy way to get an objective measurement, and it will give your vet a better understanding of what’s going on. At Anasazi Animal Clinic, we’re ready to help. Contact us to request an appointment today.

Photo by Karsten Winegeart on Unsplash used with permission under license for commercial use 02/15/2026.

The post Is Your Dog Drinking Too Much Water? What’s Normal and When to Worry appeared first on Anasazi Animal Clinic.

But don’t worry—social skills can be taught at any age. With a little patience and the right approach, even the shyest dogs can build confidence and learn to enjoy new experiences.

Why Socializing Your Dog Is So Important

Socialization isn’t just about helping your dog make friends. It’s a key part of their overall well-being. Without proper socialization, dogs can develop anxiety, fear-based aggression, or destructive behaviors. Helping your dog feel more secure in the world around them is one of the most valuable things you can do for them.

Dogs that are well-socialized tend to be:

• More confident and relaxed in new environments
• Less reactive or fearful around strangers and other animals
• Better equipped to handle travel, grooming, vet visits, and more
• Safer in unfamiliar situations, because they’re less likely to panic or lash out

When to Start Socializing Your Dog

The most important window for socializing a dog is between 3 and 14 weeks of age. During this time, puppies are especially curious and open-minded to new experiences. Positive exposure to people, sounds, smells, and different environments during this stage sets the foundation for a confident, well-adjusted dog.

But if your dog is past the puppy stage, don’t worry. Older dogs can still learn how to navigate new experiences. It may just take a little more time and encouragement.

How to Start Training a Shy Dog for Social Situations

If your dog is timid or fearful, it’s important to take it slow. Socialization doesn’t mean tossing them into a loud dog park or crowded event—it means helping them feel safe as they explore the world at their own pace. 

1. Start Small and Go at Their Pace

Jumping straight into busy settings is never a good idea with a shy or nervous dog. Avoid pushing your dog into interactions. If they freeze or back away, give them space and try again another time. Let your dog choose how close to get, and always reward calm behavior with treats or praise. 

Try starting with some low-key interactions, such as:

• Inviting over a calm, dog-friendly visitor
• Sitting near a park or trail where your dog can observe from a distance
• Walking in quiet neighborhoods during slower hours

2. Use Positive Reinforcement

All progress deserves encouragement, whether it’s a tail wag, eye contact, or calmly walking past another dog. Use treats, praise, or play to build positive associations. 

For example:

When Brian first adopted Milo, a shy rescue pup, walks were a challenge. Milo would freeze or start barking any time they saw another dog. So Brian switched to a quieter route and brought along some of Milo’s favorite treats. Any time Milo noticed another dog and stayed calm, Brian gave him a quiet “Good boy” and a treat. Little by little, they were able to get closer to other dogs without Milo getting overwhelmed. Eventually, Milo could pass by calmly on leash without disrupting or pausing their walk.

3. Practice Handling at Home

Some shy dogs are sensitive to touch, which can make vet visits, grooming, or even harnessing stressful for them. However, you can help de-sensitize them with gentle, regular handling. This builds trust and makes future handling much easier.

You can try:

• Offering treats while petting or brushing
• Touching their collar, harness, paws, or ears
• Wiping their paws or gently inspecting their face

4. Sign Up for a Training Class

Group training classes help build confidence in a structured environment. Look for classes with small groups and trainers who specialize in fear-free techniques. It’s a great way to ease your dog into new situations with professional guidance.

5. Keep It Positive

The goal is to build trust, not to overwhelm your dog. Keep socialization sessions short, positive, and pressure-free. If your dog seems anxious or scared, it’s okay to stop early. What matters most is that they feel safe and supported.

Talk to a Dog Behavior Expert

Whether you’ve just adopted a nervous puppy or you’re helping an older dog overcome their anxiety, we’re here to support you. At Anasazi Animal Clinic, we can help you build a personalized socialization plan based on your dog’s age, personality, and comfort level.

We’d love to meet your dog so we can help them feel more at home in the world around them. Contact us today to schedule a visit! 

Photo by DACHENGZI LIANG on Unsplash 06/27/2025 used with permission under the creative commons license for commercial use.

The post How to Socialize a Shy Dog appeared first on Anasazi Animal Clinic.

So I’m on My Phone—What’s the Worst That Could Happen?

If you’re distracted by your phone, you might not see danger approaching, like a truck that’s running a stop sign, or an aggressive off-leash dog running toward you. Or your pet might eat something gross they found on the sidewalk, and the next thing you know, you’re cleaning up dog diarrhea in your living room. 

If you’re not watching where you’re going, you might stumble off a curb or walk straight into a dumpster and hurt yourself. Or your dog might see a squirrel and leap after it so vigorously that you lose your grip on the leash and they dart across a busy road. Or they might lunge into the path of a passing bicyclist, tangling their leash in the chain and causing an accident that harms the cyclist, you, and your pet, too. 

Accidents can happen at any time, but they’re even more likely if you aren’t paying attention to your surroundings. So stay alert! Keeping your phone in your pocket and your hands on the leash will keep you and your dog safe when you’re out for a walk.

If You’re on Your Phone, You’re Not Paying Attention to Your Pet, Either

Dogs don’t go for walks just so they can poop and pee outside. They also need the mental and social stimulation that walks provide. Even if it doesn’t make sense to you, your dog actually needs to spend five minutes sniffing that tree or stopping to pee every ten paces. So don’t rush them—letting your dog set the pace will ensure that they get the physical exercise they need and help prevent boredom at home.

When you’re multitasking during a walk, you might even miss the signs that your dog is uncomfortable. If they’re too hot or too cold, if they’re getting tired, or if they stepped on a thorn, you won’t notice if you’re on your phone. Paying attention to your dog’s signals during a walk will help you prevent minor injuries like burned paw pads in the summer or ice between their toes in the winter. 

If you’re on your phone during your walks, you’re also missing out on training opportunities. Whether you’re trying to teach your dog to walk on a leash without pulling, or to stop and sit at intersections, consistency is very important. Your dog knows when you’re not paying attention, and will be less likely to obey your commands if you’re on your phone. You’re also missing out on those valuable one-on-one interactions that your pet craves, so be sure to give them your undivided attention.

Dog Walking Tips: How to Walk Your Dog Safely 

• Always keep your dog on a leash and obey the leash laws in your area.
• Let your pet set the pace. Pay attention to their cues so you know when they’ve had enough.
• Bring treats to reward good behavior or reinforce training exercises.
• Pay close attention to your surroundings, especially to vehicles, children, and other dogs.
• Keep your phone in your pocket! It’s okay to keep it handy for cute photos or emergencies, but don’t get distracted by text messages or social media.

Compassionate Veterinary Care for Dogs in Gilbert, Arizona

At Anasazi Animal Clinic, we treat all our patients with the same loving care that we give our own pets. We offer a full range of veterinary services, including dental care. If you live in Gilbert, Chandler, Mesa, or the surrounding areas, we’d love to meet you and your pup. To make an appointment, please send us a message or give us a call at 480-497-0505 today.

Photo by Dominik Kempf on Unsplash used with permission under the Creative Commons license for commercial use 3/18/2024.

The post Distracted Dog Walking: Why You Should Leave Your Phone in Your Pocket appeared first on Anasazi Animal Clinic.

How Often Should Dogs Get Treats?

It’s easy to go overboard with treats, especially when you’re training your dog. However, too many treats can quickly lead to weight gain. Obesity increases your dog’s risk of many health issues such as cancer, diabetes, and heart disease, so it’s important to limit treats. 

Dogs can eat treats every day. However, the right number of treats per day depends on the individual dog’s size, age, and diet. As a rule of thumb, treats should account for no more than 10% of your dog’s food in a day.   

How to Choose Healthy Treats for Your Dog: Four Things to Consider

1: Ingredients

Just like dog food, treats should contain natural, high-quality ingredients. There are many treats with ingredients that are not only unhealthy, but also dangerous. Some of them can cause dental decay, bloating, intestinal blockages, allergic reactions, and even cancer. 

However, just because the packaging claims that the treats are natural, doesn’t mean they’re actually good for your dog. Some natural ingredients like sugar are very unhealthy for dogs. You should always check the ingredients list before purchasing dog treats. Healthy dog treats should only contain whole foods, whole grains, fruits, and vegetables.

Avoid the following ingredients when choosing treats:

• Preservatives, such as propylene glycol, BHA, BHT, ethoxyquin, and potassium sorbate
• Fillers, including wheat gluten, soybean meal, corn bran, and rice bran
• Chemical sweeteners, like sorbitol
• Refined or artificial sugar
• Artificial coloring
• Animal byproducts
• Carrageenan
• Sodium
• Sugar

2: Calories

It’s important to look for low-calorie treats, especially if you’re training your dog and giving them more treats than usual per day. You can break treats into smaller pieces, or look for freeze-dried treats, which typically have fewer calories. 

3: Your Dog’s Size

It’s important to choose appropriate treats for your dog’s size. Treats that are perfectly healthy for a Great Dane could be a choking hazard for a Yorkshire Terrier. Plus, larger treats have more calories, which can easily make smaller pups overweight. 

4: Texture

The texture of dog treats can actually make a difference in your dog’s health. Chewing hard or crunchy dog treats can help remove plaque from your dog’s teeth. However, it’s still important to brush your dog’s teeth regularly to keep them clean and healthy. Keep in mind that crunchy dental treats are not always good for senior dogs—they may need soft treats, especially if they have any missing teeth. 

Dog Veterinarian in Gilbert, Arizona

Keeping your dog healthy means scheduling regular veterinary checkups. The team at Anasazi Animal Clinic provides compassionate, preventative care to keep your pup in excellent health. 

We also provide a wide selection of healthy treats through our online pharmacy, and we can help you choose the right treats for your dog. To make an appointment for a wellness exam, please give us a call at 480-497-0505. 

Images used under creative commons license – commercial use (2/1/2023). Photo by Blue Bird on Pexels

The post How to Choose Healthy Dog Treats appeared first on Anasazi Animal Clinic.

Fireworks bring on severe anxiety in many dogs with their loud bangs, bright flashes, and strong smells. Luckily, the team at Anasazi Animal Clinic is here to teach you about the signs of anxiety in dogs and how to soothe your pooch. Here’s some advice on celebrating a happy Fourth of July with your furry friends.

Signs That Your Dog Is Scared of Fireworks

Your dog can’t always tell you when they’re afraid, and sometimes people mistake their pet’s anxiety symptoms for bad behavior. If your pup is showing any of these symptoms during a fireworks celebration, they are most likely anxious, not disobedient.

• Shaking
• Hiding
• Whining
• Pacing
• Panting
• Destructive behavior
• Accidents
• Excessive barking

Concerned dog parents often try to medicate their pets to calm them down, but there are better ways to ease your dog’s fireworks anxiety during the fourth of July.

Six Tips to Help Your Dog with Fireworks Anxiety

1. Practice Sound Training

If this is your puppy’s first Fourth of July, they may be afraid of fireworks because the noise is unfamiliar. Try playing fireworks sounds for your dog a few weeks in advance so they get used to hearing the noise. You can even pair the noises with their favorite treat.

2. Go for an Early Walk

Getting out for a walk earlier in the day makes it less likely that you and your dog will encounter fireworks while you’re out of the house. Plus, a tired pup is less likely to react to late-night fireworks, so a long day of play and exercise may help them sleep through the night. Early potty breaks also decrease the likelihood that your dog will have an accident if they get scared.

3. Use an Anxiety Vest

An anxiety vest swaddles your dog while applying gentle pressure on their torso, and makes them feel safe and secure. Make sure you get your dog accustomed to their vest before July 4th, so they are comfortable in it and feel safe when the fireworks begin.

4. Create a Safe Space

Naturally, dogs are den animals. Creating a quiet, comfy cave for them away from the chaos can help them feel safe. Put their bed or crate in a room or closet away from the action and play white noise or calming music to block out the sound of fireworks.

5. Be There for Your Dog

You are your dog’s source of security. Petting them and speaking in soft, calm tones will help reassure them that they are safe. Play together with some of your dog’s favorite toys, or fill a busy toy with treats to keep them occupied.

6. Talk to Your Vet

Fireworks anxiety is common in dogs, but if your pet’s fear might put you or your pet in danger, it is important to talk to a professional. A veterinarian can teach you more about what you can do to keep your pet and yourself safe during storms, fireworks, and other events that can trigger noise aversion.

Fourth of July Pet Safety

The July 4th weekend is the most common time of the year for pets to go missing. With lots of people coming in and out of the house for barbecues, combined with the loud, panic-inducing noise of fireworks, many pets run away.

One precaution you can take to prevent losing your pet is microchipping. The information stored in the microchip can help anyone who finds your dog get in touch with you, even if your dog loses their collar and ID tags.

The best way to keep your pets safe during the festivities is to make sure you know where they are at all times. Keep them contained in a separate part of the house, or leash them where you can keep an eye on them. 

If your dog does get lost, it’s important to act quickly. Bring your dog’s favorite toy and some treats along with you when you look for them, as well as an extra collar and leash. After canvassing your neighborhood, call local shelters and check social media sites like Nextdoor or Pawboost for “found pet” notices.

Veterinary Care in Gilbert

It is not uncommon for dogs and other pets to be frightened by the light, noise, and smell of fireworks. However, consistent behavioral changes after loud sounds could mean that your dog suffers from noise aversion, a treatable condition that affects nearly 67% of dogs in the United States. 

For more advice on how to help your dog with fireworks anxiety, or to learn more about noise aversion, contact our compassionate team at Anasazi Animal Clinic. Call 480-497-0505 or send us a message so you and your pet can enjoy the Fourth of July together!

Photo by Camylla Battani on Unsplash

The post How to Calm Your Dog’s Anxiety During 4th of July Fireworks appeared first on Anasazi Animal Clinic.

How often does my cat or dog need their teeth cleaned? 

We recommend most dogs and cats come in once a year for a dental cleaning, starting around age two or three. However, there are some instances where a dog or cat may need to come in earlier or more frequently. 

Older Animals

Just like humans, animals they tend to develop more health issues as they age. In regards to oral health, older dogs and cats are more susceptible to tooth decay and more prone to tooth loss. For this reason, we suggest more frequent teeth cleanings for older pets.

Certain Dog Breeds

Some dog breeds require more dental care. Small breeds like chihuahuas have much smaller mouths, which can cause overcrowding of teeth. And dog breeds with “pushed in” faces like bulldogs and pugs may have malformed or crooked teeth, making them prone to dental issues. 

What happens during a dental cleaning? 

Before we start a dog or cat teeth cleaning procedure, we administer a general anesthetic. This allows your pet to stay comfortable during the cleaning, and prevents any accidental injuries to your pet or to the veterinarian. 

Just like your dentist does at your teeth cleanings, a veterinary dentist uses special tools to remove plaque build-up from teeth and gums. They will also polish your pet’s teeth to a nice healthy shine! 

During the dental cleaning, the veterinarian also looks for signs of any dental disease in your pet’s mouth, such as:

• Swollen and/or bleeding gums 
• Cracked, loose, or missing teeth
• Cavities
• Extremely bad breath

The veterinary dentist and their staff take x-rays of your pet’s mouth so they can check for any issues below the gums. And, if the veterinarian finds any teeth that need extraction, they will discuss your options with you. 

Cat and Dog Teeth Cleaning in Gilbert, Arizona

Annual dental cleanings are the best way to make sure your pet’s mouth stays healthy and clean. Healthy teeth and gums help your pets eat well, keeps them free from dental pain, and ensures that they live their best lives. If it’s time to schedule a cat or dog teeth cleaning for your pet, call Anasazi Animal Clinic today at 480-497-0505.   

Photo by Cierra Voelkl on Unsplash

The post Do Dogs and Cats Need Their Teeth Cleaned? appeared first on Anasazi Animal Clinic.

What are the first signs of pregnancy in a dog?

Dogs carry their puppies for a term of about 63 days. Like humans, a dog’s pregnancy includes three trimesters. However, with dogs, the trimesters only last 21 days each. On average, a dog usually carries between six to eight puppies at a time. 

Pregnant dogs may not show a lot of signs within the first few weeks. A few things to look for include: 

• Morning sickness vomiting
• Change or lack of appetite
• Slight weight gain
• Lack of energy
• Behavioral changes, such as a social dog wanting to be left alone or a shy dog who craves more attention

If you suspect your dog is pregnant, your best bet is to take her to a veterinarian for a full check-up. At the clinic, a veterinarian can confirm pregnancy through blood tests and an ultrasound. 

As the puppies grow, your dog may experience some other changes as well, including: 

• Enlarged belly
• Additional weight gain
• Increased appetite 
• Discolored and/or enlarged nipples
• Vaginal discharge
• “Nesting” behaviors such as shredding blankets and other fabrics to create a nest for her puppies. 

How do you take care of a pregnant dog?

Proper care for a pregnant dog means monitoring their diet and exercise. Knowing what to feed them and how much activity is healthy will help you care for your dog when she is pregnant. Here are some of our top care tips for dogs who are expecting. 

Increase Calories

A pregnant dog is eating for more than one! We recommend switching to a food with higher calories, fat, and nutrients to help keep your dog healthy and energized during pregnancy. If you ask us for suggestions, we can make a recommendation based on your dog’s specific needs. After the puppies come into the world, the new mom should continue with the same nutrient-rich diet while nursing. 

Keep Her Active

Although pregnant dogs may have lower energy, keeping them moving is still very important. Gentle exercise like short walks helps the mom-to-be’s body stay limber and strong. Try to avoid overstimulation and energetic activities after four weeks into the pregnancy. 

Be Careful about Flea Treatments and Vaccinations

Whenever possible, a dog should get all their vaccinations before becoming pregnant. We do not recommend that pregnant dogs receive vaccinations. And, while some flea treatments are usually okay for expecting dogs, always consult your veterinarian before using them. 

Pregnant Dog Care in Gilbert, Arizona

Helping your dog bring a litter of puppies into the world is a joyful, wondrous experience. Between the magic of nature and the cuteness overload, it’s something you will never forget. Your veterinarian plays a crucial role in managing your dog’s pregnancy and ensuring both mom and pups stay healthy. If you believe your dog might be pregnant, call Anasazi Animal Clinic at 480-497-0505.   

Photo by Andrew Kota from Pexels

The post My Dog Is Pregnant! What Do I Do Now? appeared first on Anasazi Animal Clinic.

Tips and Resources for Finding a Lost Dog or Cat

1: Act Quickly

As soon as you notice your pet is missing, start searching! Canvass your neighborhood by calling their name and holding a favorite toy or favorite food. Knock on your neighbors’ doors to alert them that your pet is missing and to ask if they have seen them recently. Sometimes cats will run and hide in garages, under porches, or in bushes, so make sure to ask your neighbors if you can look for your cat around their property. 

2: Use Social Media

Post a photo and description of your lost pet to your social media channels, as well as the lost animal Facebook pages for Gilbert or Chandler. The website and app Nextdoor and the website Pawboost can both be useful tools when searching for a lost pet in your local area. 

3: Check Local Shelters

Maricopa County Animal Care and Control offer a variety of tools to help reconnect pet owners with their lost dog or cat. These tools include a Stray Animal map tool and the 24PetConnect.com where they post pictures of the lost animals they find. You should also check the local shelters in person each day to see if your pet has been brought in. 

How to Prevent a Pet from Becoming Lost

1: Use Secure Transportation

When out and about with your dog, make sure they are on a leash that has no frays and that connects to their collar properly. Keep a grip on the leash at all times, just in case your dog decides to bolt for some reason. When transporting a cat, make sure they are in a cat carrier that is fully secured and has no rips. Always keep your cat inside the cat carrier until you are inside a room they cannot escape from. 

2: Keep Dogs Supervised

Pet owners are always shocked to hear that their dog jumped over their tall backyard fence. Dogs are excellent jumpers—and diggers!—and when left outside, they can quickly scale or dig under a fence. There have also been tales of dogs opening gates by themselves. When your dog is playing in the yard, try to be outside with them at the same time, and if you can’t, make sure to check on them frequently. 

3: Keep Your Pet’s Microchip and ID Updated

Just in case your dog or cat is ever lost, it’s important to ensure that the information on their ID tag or microchip is up to date. Microchips make it easy to find a pet’s owner if they ever get lost. Most pets adopted from animal shelters will come with a microchip, but if your pet does not have one, a veterinarian can easily implant one for you. 

Helping Prevent Lost Pets In Gilbert AZ  

Every pet parent’s worst fear is losing their furry companion. If you and your pet are ever separated, we hope that these tips and resources will help you get reunited quickly. If you ever find a lost dog or cat, or would like to get a microchip for your pet, please contact the staff at Anasazi Animal Clinic. We always do our best to ensure a happy reunion!

Photo by Eric Ward on Unsplash

The post My Pet Is Lost—What Should I Do? appeared first on Anasazi Animal Clinic.

Clients of Anasazi Animal Clinic are always asking what is the best food they should be feeding their pets. Let’s take a closer look at these different types of pet food options.  

Types of Pet Foods 

For starters, let’s examine what kinds of pet foods are available on the market today. These include dry, wet canned, fresh, and raw pet foods. 

Dry Pet Food

Probably the most well-known pet food is the dry variety, usually referred to as kibble. To make dry pet food, manufacturers cook the ingredients at a high temperature while being extruded to create small shapes. Many pet owners choose dry pet food as it is very affordable, has a long shelf life, and provides the nutrients dogs and cats need to grow and stay healthy. One downside to dry pet food is it has a very low moisture content—this means pets on a dry food-only diet should always have access to fresh water as they will not receive moisture from the dry food. 

Wet Food

Usually found in cans, “wet” pet food typically consists of a meaty portion surrounded by a sauce or gravy. Just like dry food, wet canned food contains all the nutrients dogs and cats need to stay healthy, but it has a much higher moisture content. The extra moisture can provide health benefits for animals who do not drink a lot of water during the day. Wet food has a stronger smell than dry food, which can be an enticement for older pets as their appetite wanes. And, for cats or dogs with mouth or teeth issues, it can be much easier to chew than dry kibble. 

Fresh Pet Food

One of the newest types of pet food on the market, fresh dog foods and cat foods sounds a lot like what you might be making for dinner for yourself. They contain whole protein sources like chicken, lamb, or beef, plus vegetables and whole grains. Fresh pet foods are generally cooked at a lower temperature than dry kibble and wet canned foods. However, because they do not contain preservatives, they require refrigeration or freezing to stay fresh. Refrigerated pet foods can be found in stores or purchased through subscription services that create customized meals based on your pet’s dietary needs. 

Raw Pet Food

Raw dog and cat food have the same whole protein sources, fruits, and vegetables you find in fresh pet food in an uncooked form. Some raw pet foods include ingredients like raw eggs, yogurt, and/or ground bone. Because of the lack of preservatives, raw pet foods are usually kept frozen or preserved through dehydration (freeze-dried cat food). While raw pet foods provide a lot of nutrients, this diet is not suitable for every pet. The American Veterinary Medical Association discourages pet owners from feeding animals a raw food diet that has not been cooked or pasteurized. 

Is Raw or Fresh Dog Food Better? 

In the epic battle of raw vs kibble vs fresh vs canned food, there is no clear winner. All four pet food types have their own positives and negatives. Choosing the right food comes down to the specific health needs of your cat or dog and your veterinarian’s recommendations for the specific nutrients your pet needs to live a long, healthy life. 

If you’re unsure which type of pet food is the best option for your four-legged companion, we’re happy to answer any questions you may have. Contact the vets at Anasazi Animal Clinic today to make an appointment. 

Photo by Laura Chouette on Unsplash

The post Raw, Refrigerated, and Dry Pet Foods—What’s the Difference? appeared first on Anasazi Animal Clinic.

What vaccinations do puppies receive in their first year? 

To ensure dogs receive a jumpstart to excellent health, they should receive their vaccinations between six and eight weeks of age. Because most puppies are not adoptable until they are at least eight weeks old, many times they will have already received their first vaccines by the time you bring them home. When adopting a puppy, it is very important to obtain full medical records from the shelter or breeder so you know what vaccines they have received and which ones they still need. 

The vaccinations we recommend puppies receive include: 

DHPP Vaccine

The DHPP vaccine is actually five vaccinations in one shot. DHPP protects against: 

• Canine distemper
• Hepatitis
• Kennel Cough
• Parainfluenza
• Parvovirus 

Puppies receive the DHPP vaccine over a course of two to four doses spread out over a set number of weeks. How many doses they receive and the amount of time it takes depends on the age of the puppy.

Rabies

Maricopa County requires rabies vaccinations for all dogs over the age of three months. We administer rabies vaccines to puppies once they reach three months of age, followed by a booster at one year of age. 

Leptospirosis

The Leptospirosis vaccine protects dogs against diseases caused by Leptospira bacteria. Both humans and animals can get Leptospirosis and can spread it to each other. Although there are treatments for this disease, in some cases it can cause irreversible kidney and/or liver damage.  

Bordetella

We recommend the Bordetella vaccine for dogs who will frequent puppy daycare centers, training classes, dog parks, and boarding kennels. The Bordetella vaccine helps protect dogs from Bordetella bronchiseptica—the bacteria that causes kennel cough. Kennel cough is an extremely contagious respiratory disease that can leave a dog immunocompromised and vulnerable to other types of infections. 

What does a yearly dog vaccination schedule include? 

Our staff is frequently asked, “what vaccines do dogs need annually?” Vaccines generally require booster shots throughout a dog’s life to ensure they remain protected. The type of vaccine dictates the booster shot schedule. 

Here are some examples of what a typical dog vaccination timeline may look like: 

• DHPP Vaccine: Boosters are generally administered one year after the puppy finishes the initial series, followed by a booster at age 2, and then boosters every three years.
• Rabies: A booster is generally given around the first year of age followed by boosters every three years. 
• Leptospirosis: Annual booster shots are required to keep up immunity.
• Bordetella: Dogs receive booster shots every six months to every year depending on how frequently your dog is around other canines.

Annual Dog Vaccinations in Chandler, AZ

Vaccinations are an important part of a dog’s overall well-being. They are necessary to ensure a dog’s immune system starts off on the right foot when they are young. Adhering to an annual dog vaccination schedule is crucial to making sure your dog remains protected and lives a long, healthy life.  

If you have a new puppy requiring vaccinations or a dog who needs their vaccines updated, contact our staff at Anasazi Animal Clinic today. 

Photo by Pixabay

The post What Vaccinations Does My Dog Need Each Year? appeared first on Anasazi Animal Clinic.