Pet Dental Health – What Not to Ignore

Dog with toothbrush

Welcome to the AskVet Webinar Series where our doctors and veterinary professionals present relevant information and discuss important pet topics. Join our live streams to learn how you, your dogs, and your cats can live your best lives! 


Dental disease affects a majority of cats and dogs and is the most common course of chronic pain for our pets. Catching dental issues before they become advanced or painful is the goal of this discussion with Dr. Marks. Dental disease typically has an early onset with more than 80% of dogs and greater than 50% of cats over the age of 3 affected! Untreated dental disease can also cause problems in the body making early detection so important. For those pets afflicted by untreated dental disease, the bacteria under the gums circulates in the bloodstream and can affect the heart, liver, and kidneys. Watch below to learn more about dental disease and ways to proactively look for signs and symptoms.

Lesser known signs of dental disease

  • Discolored teeth (This can be caused by plaque and tartar.)
  • Red gums
  • Broken teeth
  • Bleeding from the mouth
  • Bad breath! #1 indicator (The bad breath is caused by a gaseous waste product of bacteria in the mouth.)

3 subtle signs of dental disease in dogs to not ignore

  1. Swelling under eye
    This is caused by a tooth root abscess of the 4th premolar on the upper jaw, otherwise known as the carnassial tooth. It is the largest chewing tooth. This condition is painful and requires oral surgery such as a root canal or tooth extraction, antibiotics and pain meds.

  2. Drooling 
    This indicates pain. Also nasal discharge can occur if there is an oronasal fistula, or a hole from the canine tooth to the nostril.

  3. Dropping food 
    If dropping food is out of character for your pet, you notice chewing on one side only, or your pet is eating slowly when normally they eat fast, then a dental problem needs to be considered.  

3 subtle signs of dental disease in cats to not ignore

Cats are by nature very stoic. They do not show signs of pain as this makes them vulnerable to predators, so it is important to carefully observe your cat for subtle signs of dental disease. 

  1. Red dots 
    These are resorptive lesions typically found on the crown of the tooth, They are hard to see, but indicate disease under the gum. This is usually a genetic issue where the immune system attacks tooth roots and erodes and dissolves tooth’s blood supply causing the tooth to fracture. Extraction of the affected tooth is the treatment of choice.

  2. Pawing at mouth, 
    Cats will normally paw or rub their faces during normal grooming, but if this behavior becomes more aggressive and less gentle, then they may be experiencing oral pain.

  3. Appetite change 
    Most cats have predictable eating behavior. If normal eating behavior changes, if not dental disease causing the problem, it is something else that needs to be investigated.

Best ways to to prevent dental disease

  • Although brushing is best, it is not always possible in reality. Toothbrushing is dependent upon the pet’s temperament, their training, and your ability to commit time to their dental care. 
  • Try to pair your pet’s toothbrushing session with a bedtime routine. 
  • Use finger or baby toothbrushes. 
  • Daily dental care is the key. Do something every day whether it be dental wipes, chews, oral rinses, or prescription food. It makes you flip the lip to look at your pet’s dental health to hopefully catch abnormalities sooner rather than later
  • Go to the Veterinary Oral Health Council to learn more. They also list many approved OTC dental options for your pets. 

At AskVet, we know that every pet has its own personality and unique set of needs, which will continually evolve over time. We’re here to help you evolve with them. We use 360° Wellness Plans to help guide you through every stage of your pet’s life—and we’re with you every step of the way.

 

Join AskVet Today

 

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Puppy Potty Training Success in 20 Minutes

puppy potty training

Welcome to the Askvet Webinar Series where our doctors and veterinary professionals present relevant information and discuss important pet topics. Join our live streams to learn how you, your dogs, and your cats can live your best lives! 


House training a puppy can be a very frustrating process and can lead to anxiety and even anger, but with patience and a calm presence, can become a very rewarding endeavor. If done correctly, potty training can create a happier dog and a stronger human-animal bond. Join Dr. Marks in our live AskVet webinar to learn how to effectively house train a puppy. 

5 steps to house training a Puppy

  1. Schedule time blocks and a house training routine.
    Before getting a puppy, think proactively about how your life will be affected and if you have time to commit to a puppy. Your work schedule, travel plans, and daily home life for instance will be impacted and must accommodate a puppy that is being house trained. Create a village to help! Have friends, family, co-workers, pet sitters, or neighbors assist with the process.

For puppies, less than 12 weeks of age, they need to be let outside every 1-2 hours during the day. For puppies more than 12 weeks, they need to be let outside every  2-4 hours during the day. Puppies usually need to go immediately after waking, after playing, and after eating or drinking. 

 

Bring them outside on a leash. This not only helps with potty training, but helps them learn how to walk on a leash and aids in socialization. 

 

Use a 2 word command every time you take your puppy outside. For instance, if the puppy’s name is Franklin, say “Franklin potty.” Overtime, Franklin will understand this command. 

  1. Create a feeding schedule. Mealtimes and training times need to be connected. Within 20 minutes of eating and drinking, your puppy will need to potty. Feeding at the same time every day will increase predictability and lead to better house training success. 

  1. Use a crate. Dogs in general are den animals. They like to snuggle and bed down in a safe space. A crate creates this safe space for a puppy. Let your puppy eat treats or meals and  have toy time in the crate to make it a positive space. They also will not sleep or eat where they eliminate, so using a crate is a form of natural discouragement from urinating and defecating in the house. Crate size is important as well. Ensure the crate is only big enough for your puppy to stand up, turn around, and lay down. A crate that is too large will allow the puppy to eliminate in the crate while having a separate space to lay down. Crate dividers can be used to expand the crate size to meet the needs of a growing puppy. 

  1. Reward Be your puppy’s cheerleader especially immediately after eliminating. When your puppy goes, reward instantly with verbal praise, treats, toys, touch and love. 

  1. Learn body language Read your puppy’s body language as most puppies will give cues that they need to relieve themselves. They may start whining, circling, or sniffing. Some may sit by the door patiently; these dogs can be trained to ring a bell when they need to go outside. Others may wander off to find a place in the house to eliminate. If your puppy wanders often, use a light leash in your home when out of the crate to keep a closer eye on your puppy and to catch them before they go.


Potty Training No-No’s

Accidents always happen! Never punish for accidents. No spray bottles, rubbing noses into the soiled area, yelling, or hitting. Puppies do not understand the negative connection and punishment will only create fear and anxiety as well as lead to the deterioration of  your human-animal bond. When a puppy has an accident, it usually is our fault. For instance, we left the puppy in the crate too long, we didn’t adhere to the schedule and routine, or we did not use the proper command. 

 

Puppy Pads

Puppy pads are not a substitute for a crate. They do not create a safe space and are not a den. Most dogs do not need pee pads as it only leads to confusion for them. However, there are special circumstances that these pads can be used successfully. For instance, puppies living in a high rise, dogs with social anxiety, or our geriatric canines. If puppy pads are needed, make a room for the puppy. Place the pee pad next to the crate, so they realize that there is a special place for elimination.

 

 

 

At AskVet, we know that every pet has its own personality and unique set of needs, which will continually evolve over time. We’re here to help you evolve with them. We use 360° Wellness Plans to help guide you through every stage of your pet’s life—and we’re with you every step of the way.

 

Join AskVet Today

 

 

 

Give your pet the personlaized care. Get the app!

Building a First Aid Kit for your Pets

puppy first aid

Welcome to the AskVet Webinar Series where our doctors and veterinary professionals present relevant information and discuss important pet topics. Join our live streams to learn how you, your dogs, and your cats can live your best lives! 


While we think of packing an emergency kit for ourselves, we often forget about our pets! In the event of a natural disaster, a home evacuation, a camping trip, or even a quick trip to the park, it is always best to be prepared. In this webinar, Dr. Emily Gaugh discusses how to pack an emergency kit for your pets and how to perform basic first aid care for our furry companions. Watch below to learn more about building first aid kits for your pets!

Customized Kits

First aid kits should be individualized and customized to your pets. Ideally, you want one kit for every pet in your home. Include the following:

  • Emergency info sheet with the contact info of your regular veterinarian, your local veterinary emergency hospital, and Pet Poison Helpline or ASPCA Pet Poison Control hotline phone number. 
  • Include your pet’s normal vitals (heart rate and respiratory rate) and weight.
  • A medication listing any prescription or OTC medications your pet is taking. Also talk with your veterinarian about what OTC medications are safe to use and have on hand in the event of an emergency. Your vet can provide info on OTC antacid or antihistamine dosing for instance.
  • Have recent photos of your pets in case they are lost. 

Basic Assessment

A basic pet health assessment includes temperature, respiratory rate, and heart rate. Having a watch with a second hand or a phone with a timer, will be needed. It is important to know what your pet’s normal vitals are, in order to determine when they are abnormal.

To obtain an accurate temperature, you will need a rectal thermometer, gloves and lubrication. Only take a rectal temperature if you can do so safely. Even the best dogs and cats aren’t always cooperative. Alternatively, an armpit or axillary temperature can be taken. Add 1.5 – 2.0 degrees to the reading for accuracy. Normal temperature ranges from 100-103 F. However, if your pet is stressed or anxious, the temperature can be falsely elevated. If your pet has just woken up or needs to have a bowel movement, the temperature may be falsely low.

Respiratory rates (how many breaths are taken in 60 seconds) should be obtained when the pet is awake. During sleep, they can experience rapid or slow breathing, twitching, snorting, and other normal behaviors that will make it difficult to get an accurate respiratory rate. Make sure your pet is relaxed and not panting. To obtain a heart rate (how many times the heart beats in 60 seconds), place your hand on the chest behind the point of the elbow, or inside the thigh on the femoral artery. 

Kit Contents 

In addition to the contact info, photos, and medications list, you will want to include a cone or ecollar that is already fitted to your pet. Place the cone on to prevent licking or chewing which will reduce inflammation and decrease the risk of infection. Ideally the hard plastic ones are best. Inflatable donuts to wear around the neck are an option as well, but they do not prevent the pet from reaching extremities. Include an old t-shirt to cover a wound or injury and a large towel. The towel can be used to provide pressure if bleeding, and can be rolled and wrapped around the neck to keep your pet from biting in the event that they are in pain. Consider packing a muzzle. Basket muzzles allow your pet to breath, pant, and drink while offering protection.  Roll gauze can be fastened into a temporary makeshift muzzle if needed. Include a slip leash for handling and a carrier for small pets. Your first aid supplies can be stored in the carrier as well. Some miscellaneous items to include are canned pumpkin. This is a fiber source that can help alleviate diarrhea, Pack Karo syrup in the event of low blood sugar, tweezers for tick or thorn extractions, and a 3 days supply of food and water.

Basic First Aid Care

Reverse sneezing, although scary, is often not an emergency, but a reflex due to irritation in the back of the throat. This can be temporarily resolved by getting your pet to swallow. Offer food or water. 


For superficial wounds, mild soap like Dawn dish soap, and water is all you need.Wash gently with clean cloth or rags. If a deeper wound or puncture is present, especially on the chest or abdomen, do not wash or flush as we do not know how deep these wounds go. 

 

If there is an eye problem, you can flush with OTC eye rinse. If the problem is not remedied after flushing, the eye is red, held shut, or hazy, more extensive vet care is needed. 

Some mild ear issues can be alleviated with ear cleansing. Use a canine specific ear cleaner. Ask your vet what product they recommend.  If you see redness, debris, or your pet is painful, they will need more care than just cleansing alone. 

Peroxide, although helpful for use in de-skunking baths, is a skin irritant. Do not apply to wounds. Also, peroxide is a gastric irritant and can cause vomiting when ingested. Never do this unless instructed by a veterinary professional as this could lead to esophageal burns, esophageal obstruction or gastric ulceration. Never use in cats!

 

Epsom salts can be used for mild inflammation especially for paws. You can soak a cloth in epsom salts and wrap around the affected area. 

Ice packs and warm compresses  can be used for pain control and to reduce inflammation. Always place a dry towel in between the skin and compress. Do not force your pet to accept heat or cold therapy as we could be causing more harm. Allow them to move away if they chose.


Rest is best for injury. Do not use OTC pain medication for your pets. They are unsafe and could be toxic. Also do not use aspirin. It is not effective at reducing pain and inflammation, it causes stomach ulceration, and prevents vets from using effective meds. 

In the event of bleeding, use non-stick, non adherent telfa pads. Apply pressure with a towel on top of the pad. Do not bandage as there are often complications if not applied correctly, such as more pain, inflammation, and increases the chance of infection. Include nail trimmers and styptic powder, flour, or cornstarch in the event of a broken nail. 

 

Itching can be alleviated by applying a cool compress and wiping feet with cool damp washcloth after being outside. Include in your kit itch spray and calming shampoo. Your vet may have recommendations on what products to use. 

Heatstroke occurs commonly in spring and summer months. Dogs will become weak, may vomit or collapse. Keep pets in cool shaded areas. Check the temp if you are concerned. Do not delay care in this situation, have them seen right away! If this is not possible, place cool water on the body, but remove right away and repeat.  Spray alcohol on paw pads as well to remove heat from body

If your pet ingests a toxin, try your best to estimate when it happened, how much was ingested, and what the ingredients were. Poison control or your vet will be better able to help you and your pet with the more info you can provide. 

 

 

At AskVet, we know that every pet has its own personality and unique set of needs, which will continually evolve over time. We’re here to help you evolve with them. We use 360° Wellness Plans to help guide you through every stage of your pet’s life—and we’re with you every step of the way.

 

Join AskVet Today

 

Give your pet the personlaized care. Get the app!

The Settle Mat: What’s That?

Dog laying on settle mat

Welcome to the AskVet Webinar Series where our doctors and veterinary professionals present relevant information and discuss important pet topics. Join our live streams to learn how you, your dogs, and your cats can live your best lives! 


In this discussion with Dr. Marks, we talk about the use of a settle mat as a training tool. A settle mat creates a safe space for your dog to relax, as well as reduces anxiety and fear. Watch below to learn more about this training technique.

A settle mat is a specified mat that your dog can go to and relax. It is not a dog bed, but a mat where they are trained to go for peace and serenity. It allows you as the pet parent to have more control of your dog’s behavior during the day.

 

Settle mats are a training tool for dogs that are too excitable, or have separation anxiety. 

Pets that are reactive towards people or other pets or dogs that have OCD behaviors (patterned actions with no results, like tail spinning) can benefit from use of a settle mat as well. 

 

What You Need to Start: 

  • Mat (any type such as yoga, bath, front door mat)- This is your training tool. 
  • Clicker- Clicker training creates sounds that trigger your dog to understand good behavior.
  • Treats- Have a variety of types that your dog loves.

Steps to Settle Mat Training

  1. Place the mat down and wait quietly. This takes time and patience. Refer to clickertraining.com for assistance. 
  2. Praise/click and give a treat when your dog steps on the mat. This requires perfect timing. As soon as your dog steps on the mat, praise and click. Repeat 10 times to establish a good habit. Start placing treats directly on the mat. When your pet steps on the mat to get the treat, click and praise at the same time.
  3. Toss treats away from the mat and move the mat to a new location. You need your dog off the mat to continue training. For this next step, your pet must have all 4 paws on the mat this time for treats. Use commands and praise that are succinct, three word phrases, such as “Good job Samantha” or “Good boy Max!” Praise phrases need to be consistent and short so as not to cause confusion for your dog. 
  4. Repetition is key. Continue to move the mat to new locations. Do not leave the mat out all the time. It is a tool to reduce excitement, not a place for a nap. Next your dog needs to sit or lay down on the mat for treats. You may need to give more enticing treats for encouragement. Again, repeat this 10 times to establish a good habit. 
  5. Build up treat intervals. We do not want to condition our dogs for treats only. Using treat intervals solves this issue. Feed 10 treats, but pause briefly in between treats. Wait a moment, then give another treat and repeat. Build up intervals to a 15 second pause and work them up to extended periods of time on the settle mat. 
  6. Add a Cue. Cue them to go to the settle mat. For example say, “Samantha settle” or  “Go to bed,” or simply say “Mat.” Right before, or as you put the mat down, add the cue.  The goal for your dog is to reach 2 minutes and 30 seconds on the mat.
  7. Add distance. Most of the time during training, we are in close proximity to the mat. Take 1 step back then praise and give a treat if your dog remains on the mat. Continue. If your dog is going to be on the mat for a long period of time, choose a toy to be chewed on and that occupies your pup for a while (like a frozen kong, or rope toy). 

Tips for Success

  • Always end a session. Give your dog a cue that the session is over. Roll up mat and put away. Do not allow use of the mat until training session. 
  • Never use a mat as a place of punishment. It needs to always be a positive safe space.
  • Do not interrupt if your dog is settled on the mat. Let them be. 
  • Keep sessions short. A session lasting 30 seconds to 2 minutes of training per day is enough. Training sessions should be short and focused.
  • Use pheromones. Pheromones are natural chemical compounds that dogs emit normally. Adaptil is a helpful product for settle mat training. Spray on the mat, 8 pumps per session. This creates a warm and relaxing feeling for your dog. 

 

At AskVet, we know that every pet has its own personality and unique set of needs, which will continually evolve over time. We’re here to help you evolve with them. We use 360° Wellness Plans to help guide you through every stage of your pet’s life—and we’re with you every step of the way.

 

Join AskVet Today

 

Give your pet the personlaized care. Get the app!

Common Pet Toxins In and Out of the House

Little grey cute cat sits on a branch of blue grapes

Welcome to the Askvet Webinar Series where our doctors and veterinary professionals present relevant information and discuss important pet topics. Join our live streams to learn how you, your dogs, and your cats can live your best lives! 

When we think about pet poison and toxins, we envision chemicals and cleaners. While these substances can cause trouble for our furry friends, so can fruits, veggies, and plants!  Did you know that grapes, bread dough, essential oils, dryer sheets, and Sago Palm plants can cause devastating effects to our dogs and cats if ingested?  In this webinar, Dr. Marks speaks about these common household toxins, symptoms your pet may experience if ingested, and what to do in the event of a toxicity. Tune in below to learn more about keeping your pets safe and toxin free!


Canine HouseHold Toxicities: 

Common toxicities in dogs include Poinsettia plants ingestion, Chocolate, Xylitol, Grapes and Raisins, Over-The-Counter and Prescription Medications, as well as batteries. Some cause more devastating effects than others. For instance, Poinsettias, if ingested, can cause mild vomiting and diarrhea which usually will resolve with time and does not require ER care. Xylitol, however, can be life-threatening if consumed in tiny amounts. Xylitol is a sugar-free substitute found in food products as well as gum, mouthwash, toothpaste, and drink powders. A dog that has eaten a xylitol containing substance, may experience vomiting, stumbling, low blood sugar, seizures, liver failure, and possible coma. 

Other toxins are dose dependent meaning the amount of substance ingested and the size of the dog will determine the severity of the effect. Chocolate, for example, has varying degrees of potency. Semi-sweet, dark chocolate, and cocoa powder are the most powerful chocolate products. A small chihuahua that eats 2 oz of dark chocolate could have heart abnormalities, seizures, and suffer fatal consequences, whereas a Great Dane that consumes the same amount may have no symptoms at all. Grapes and raisins can cause kidney failure, but the severity of symptoms greatly varies among dogs regardless of dog size. 

OTC and prescription products made up a bulk of calls made to Pet Poison Helpline. 17% of  inquiries were about acetaminophen and ibuprofen while 15% were in regards to topical creams, antidepressants, anticonvulsants, and cardiac meds. Make sure to keep your medications in a high, locked cabinet. 

In the event of toxic ingestion, one route of treatment your vet may recommend is to induce vomiting. While this may be safe with some toxic ingestions, the symptoms can worsen with other substances, such as with batteries. The material inside the battery is corrosive and can burn the mouth, esophagus, and internal organs if the pet vomits after eating a battery. 

 

Feline HouseHold Toxicities: 

Common toxicities in cats include Lily plant ingestion, Antifreeze, Rodenticide, Garlic and Onions, and Household Products and Cleaners. Although Lillies are gorgeous flowers, all parts of the plant are toxic and can cause irreversible kidney damage. Never have a lily in your home if you have a cat. 

 

While some toxins have immediate effects, some toxins have a delayed response, meaning your pet will not be sick until days after exposure like with Antifreeze, rodenticide, and garlic and onions making it so important to prevent exposure in your pet. Antifreeze, or ethylene glycol, can cause difficulty walking, increased thirst and urination, along with changes in the nervous system, heart, and kidneys. Check for puddles in your garage and driveway routinely. Rodenticide, mouse and rat killer, are often pink or blue pelleted products that are baited with yummy attractants. This toxin prevents clotting if ingested. Garlic and onions, while a common food staple for people, cause severe anemia, weakness, and pale gums. When cooking or earring garlic and onions, do not leave food unattended. 

 

Other Household Pet Toxicities:

Household items such as essential oils, bleach, jade plants, sago palms, rhododendron, raw eggs, and alcohol should not be accessible to your pet. Additionally, household products and cleaners like paint, spackle, home improvement materials, fabric softeners, dryer sheets, carpet fresheners, and swiffer wet jets should be stored safely and out of your pet’s reach. 

 

Toxic Exposure

In event of toxic exposure

  1. Remove your pet from the area.
  2. Check for breathing. 
  3. Do not give at home anecdotes as this could worsen symptoms and delay care.
  4. Do not induce vomiting unless Pet Poison Helpline, ASPCA Animal Poison Control, or your veterinarian has instructed you to do so. 
  5. Know your local ER location and number.

 

At AskVet, we know that every pet has its own personality and unique set of needs, which will continually evolve over time. We’re here to help you evolve with them. We use Personalized Pet Plans to help guide you through every stage of your pet’s life—and we’re with you every step of the way.

Give your pet the personlaized care. Get the app!