Why Dogs Slobber

A bulldog drooling happily

Dog kisses—some humans love them, while others cringe and turn away. There are those dogs, those especially drooly, slobbery dogs, that nobody wants to get near for a sloppy kiss. Why do some dogs slobber so much?

Dogs Drool for the Same Reasons People Drool

Think about a lemon or a sour pickle. Right away, saliva begins to accumulate in your mouth. You have to swallow to get rid of it (don’t spit!). When you aren’t thinking about sour foods, your mouth still stays wet from saliva.

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If Your Dog Has a Pollen Allergy, Would You Know?

Dog playing in park.

Allergies have become the norm, but just because they’re commonplace doesn’t mean symptoms can be dismissed. Sure, mild reactions to dust, mold, smoke and bug bites can resolve on their own, but prolonged exposure to triggers makes matters worse over time. If a dog has a pollen allergy that isn’t addressed or treated, serious health problems may be afoot. 

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A Pet-Friendly Gardening Guide

Pet-friendly gardening tips.

Gardening can be a fun and rewarding activity to enjoy outside, as a way for you to relax in the fresh air and nice weather. It can be even more enjoyable when your pets can relish in the garden with you. With safety in mind regarding toxins, parasite prevention, and fencing, you and your pets can experience quality time together in outdoor gardens. 

The team at Parkside Animal Hospital has put together a pet-friendly guide to gardening so you and your pets can enjoy its fruits, flowers, or veggies together! 

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Hairballs: When to Worry About Your Cat, And When to Simply Clean Up

A cat laying on the ground

The law of cause and effect states that every single action produces a reaction. In the world of cat care, the law of cause and effect can be readily seen. While some cat owners shake their heads at the sight and sound of feline regurgitation, hairballs are part of the natural order of life.

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When it Comes to Pet Lumps and Bumps, Should You Wait or Worry?

An older dog looking up at the camera

One of the best parts of owning a pet is the mutually beneficial act of petting them. It feels good to them, of course, but snuggling and stroking a furry pet has proven to enhance human health, too. 

Equally important during your daily cuddle-fests is the opportunity to feel for any pet lumps and bumps. To be sure, knowing exactly what is normal for your pet’s skin and body condition can go a long way to staying in front of developing problems.

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Can My Pet Make Me Sick? An Overview of Zoonotic Diseases

A woman bends down to pet her dog.
Woman feeding dog.

This past year the global pandemic has been on everyone’s mind, but you probably haven’t thought about your pet (including exotics) in this age of social distancing. 

You may have even heard more about the term zoonosis these days, which means a disease that can be passed from animals to people. House pets do carry their own illnesses, some of which can be transmitted to humans – Salmonella, for example.  

Many pet owners have asked about different viruses and other diseases and whether they can be transmitted to their human family. The team at Parkside Animal Hospital is here to explain more about zoonotic disease and how you can protect your entire family, pet family included.

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HONK-Wheeze: What Is a Reverse Sneeze?

Pet Allergy -- Dog Sneezing

Have you ever been sitting enjoying some quality time with your dog when they let out a weird, honking noise and appear to be struggling to breathe? 

This scary phenomenon is called inspiratory paroxysmal respiration, also known as the reverse sneeze. While it seems like something for dog owners to worry about, in most cases it is a common condition that occurs without serious repercussions in dogs

While most reverse sneezes are completely harmless, there are some cases where it could be a sign of something more. The team at Parkside Animal Hospital is here to help you understand more about the reverse sneeze and what it means: 

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The Pet Lover’s Guide to Paw Diseases

dog showing his paws

There may not exactly be such a thing as a puppy podiatrist, but that doesn’t mean that pets don’t have trouble with their feet. Paw problems are a real issue, and Parkside Animal Hospital is equipped to help you and your furry friends with paw diseases of all kinds.

Protecting Those Pads

As a pet owner, it is your responsibility to pay attention and be proactive when it comes to their health. You put a lot of effort into your pet’s care, and adding a few checklist items that specifically have the feet at heart isn’t much to ask.

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Options for Safe Exercise and Fun After Your Dog Has Surgery

A dog wearing a surgical cone

After your dog’s surgery, they will need plenty of rest and physical restriction for recovery to be a success. This may mean they will be crated or otherwise immobilized during those crucial few weeks after an operation. Gradually, your pet will need to move and get some level of physical exercise as they build strength and stamina. 

If your pet is about to have or has recently had a surgery, you may wonder what options there are for exercise and entertainment. The team at Parkside Animal Hospital is here with some tips and recommendations for getting your bestie back on track after your dog has surgery. 

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A Toothy Topic: Why Dental Care for Pets Is Important to Overall Health

pet dental visit

Aside from the occasional dental chew, most pets don’t get much attention to their dental care. After all, wild animals seem to get on okay without toothbrushing, so why wouldn’t that be true for a companion animal? 

Actually, there is every reason why pet dental care should be on the top of the pet care list. Dental care for pets is paramount to overall health for several reasons, and is key to a pet’s well-being. The team at Parkside Animal Hospital is here to present a solid case for the importance of dental wellness for your four-legged friend.

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