When to Wash a Dog Bed (and Why)

Dog in dog bed.

The type of dog bed you select for your home is not only important for your pup’s comfort, but has a bearing on their hygiene, too. (It might be worth it to invest in a dog bed that can be machine washed, for example). This brings up many questions about how (and how often) to wash a dog bed. Since it can quickly accumulate unhealthy bacteria, it is vital to wash a dog bed with some regularity and Oakhurst Veterinary Hospital can get you started. 

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Canine Behavior: How Dogs Interpret Emotional Extremes

Embarrassed dog.

We know that dogs sense and react to human emotions, as evidenced by their behavior when we’re either up or down. Ongoing research into canine behavior will continue to emphasize just how in-tune dogs are to their people. In fact, scientists have proven that dogs employ certain parts of their brains just for processing the emotions belonging to their special people. Along the journey of dog ownership, some owners notice an inexplicable, awkward discomfort to various human emotions, including intense physical or emotional pain. In a species known for emotional depth, why does crying creep them out?

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Your Dog Comforts You When You’re Sad. Why?

"dog consoling owner"

Dog owners spend an inordinate amount of time trying to read their dog’s thoughts. In the absence of a shared language, we attempt to understand what they’re thinking and feeling at any given time. If your dog comforts you when you’re sad, there’s a great explanation for their empathy.

Perfectly Aligned

Have you ever gotten really excited about something? Chances are, your dog was right beside you, eager to participate in this electrifying experience. They may have started barking, wagging their tail, jumping up on you, and generally reveling in the moment.  

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Beyond the Fluff: Basics of Doodle Puppy Care

"goldendoodle puppy"

There are certain dog breeds that are the pinnacle of perfection. They are so mellow, intelligent, devoted, and attractive that any improvements to their disposition and appearance would be impossible. Until, that is, two amazing dog breeds are intentionally bred. The result? Doodles! We’re talking labradoodle, golden doodles, Bernedoodles, doxiepoos and other breeds mixed with standard or mini poodles. There are many reasons to love a doodle puppy, and properly caring for them is just one way to share your affection

The Right Paw

All puppies benefit from regular veterinary care. As soon as you bring them home, we encourage you to set up their first appointment with us. There’s so much to accomplish in the first 4-6 months. When all of your doodle’s health requirements are fulfilled early in life, you have a positive influence on their long-term wellness. 

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Tips & Tricks for Administering Your Pet’s Medication

Giving dog medication.

Almost all pets will require medication at some point in their lives, whether it’s to relieve pain, treat an infection, or manage a chronic health condition. Administering medication—and doing it on a reasonably routine basis—can be especially challenging if you have a pet with a picky palate. Cats, in particular, are suspicious of new odors and flavors. If your pet has been prescribed medication, try these tips and tricks from our team at Oakhurst Veterinary Hospital.

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Top 3 Things to Do Before Your First Vet Visit

First pet visit.

Congratulations on your new addition! Welcoming a new cat or dog can be a true joy, and if this is your first foray into pet parenthood, you likely have many questions about when to schedule your pet’s first checkup, what to expect, and how to prepare.

At Oakhurst Veterinary Hospital, we warmly welcome new pet patients, and we’ve compiled some helpful hints for navigating your pet’s first visit. 

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Can Having Pets Help Anxiety?

A man spending time with his dog.

Anxiety disorders are among the most common mental illnesses diagnosed in Americans. Many utilize therapy of varying kinds as well as medications to manage the disease. Have you ever wondered, though, if having pets can help anxiety? In short, the answer is yes, and Oakhurst Veterinary Hospital is excited to share how.

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5 Most Popular Pets in 2022

An Australian Shepherd running with his tongue out.

Have you noticed it feels a bit like deja vu scrolling through social media seeing many of the same kinds of cats and dogs splattered all over your social feed? These pets are adorable and clearly very popular. Maybe you’d love to start a social media page for one of them yourself.  Oakhurst Veterinary Hospital has compiled the 5 most popular pet breeds of 2022 so that you can consider what breed might be right for you before you go out and adopt.

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How to Care for Your Deaf Pet

A white pit bull smiling.

Whether you are a human, a dog, or a cat, losing one of your main senses can really alter your world. Hearing loss can completely change your pet’s life.

Thankfully, just because a pet can’t hear or can’t hear well doesn’t mean that they can’t live healthy and fulfilling lives. Oakhurst Veterinary Hospital has several tips for caring for a deaf pet that are sure to help them thrive.  

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Understanding Canine Parvovirus

Canine Parvovirus is a serious illness for dogs.

Most dog owners have heard of canine parvovirus, especially if they’ve adopted a puppy. The canine parvovirus vaccine is one of the first shots a puppy will receive–and for good reason. This highly contagious disease is often fatal and is extremely prevalent in our environment.

At Oakhurst Veterinary Hospital, we want to make sure pet owners have all the information they need to protect their dogs from canine parvovirus.

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