Kipling Veterinary Knowledge Base and FAQ's

Caring for your cat's teeth is a crucial aspect of their overall well-being, yet dental care for pets is a modern practice. In the past, pet dental health was often overlooked, leading to various preventable conditions such as tooth decay, gum disease, and even systemic infections. Over the years, as veterinarians gained a better understanding of the importance of oral health, pet owners became more proactive in maintaining their pets' dental hygiene.

As veterinary medicine continues to evolve, we are learning more about the critical importance of dental health for pets. With more than 85% of pets over the age of three suffering from some form of dental disease, veterinarians have long emphasized the need for regular dental care, both at home and in the clinic. Dental disease, if left untreated, can lead to serious complications that affect

Canine obesity is a significant and growing issue for both veterinarians and pet owners alike. In fact, obesity in pets is not a new problem—it has long been a challenge that has escalated over time as our pets’ lifestyles have shifted. With more than 40% of dogs in the United States now classified as obese, the concern is no longer about appearance. Obesity poses life-threatening health risks, contributing to severe conditions such as heart disease, diabetes, respiratory issues, and one of the most common problems: arthritis. These conditions not only shorten your dog’s lifespan but also significantly diminish their quality of life. This is why it is critical to address obesity as early as possible to ensure a healthy, happy life for your pet.

Zoonosis refers to diseases and infections that can be transmitted from animals to humans. Throughout history, zoonotic diseases have posed serious risks to human health. Early awareness of these diseases came from interactions between humans and their domesticated animals, especially dogs, which have been companions to humans for thousands of years. As urbanization and close living quarters with pets increased, the potential for the spread of zoonotic diseases became more significant.

Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) is one of the most common heart diseases affecting cats. It occurs when the walls of the heart’s left ventricle thicken, reducing the heart’s ability to pump blood efficiently. Over time, this can lead to heart failure and fluid accumulation in the lungs, severely impacting your pet's quality of life. While HCM is most prevalent in cats, it is a rare condition in dogs, though the disease can manifest similarly in both species.

In Colorado, the combination of dry air, fluctuating weather patterns, and diverse plant life means that allergy season can feel like a year-round event. While many people associate allergies with spring pollen, the truth is that environmental factors such as dust, mold spores, and pollen change throughout the year, exposing both humans and pets to potential allergens. Cats and dogs are particularly vulnerable to these allergens, and their sensitivity to them is an increasing focus in modern veterinary care.

Chronic kidney failure (also known as chronic renal failure, or CRF) is a progressive and irreversible disease that affects many of our beloved canine and feline companions, particularly as they age. Historically, kidney disease in pets was often misunderstood, and veterinarians had limited treatment options. However, advances in veterinary medicine have greatly improved the ability to diagnose, manage, and treat kidney disease, allowing pets to live longer and more comfortable lives even after diagnosis.

As winter arrives, it is vital to take extra precautions to ensure the safety and well-being of your pets. Cold temperatures, snow, ice, and winter hazards can pose significant risks to both cats and dogs. Historically, pet owners have adapted their care routines in response to seasonal changes, recognizing that pets, much like humans, are vulnerable to the elements. Over time, veterinarians have worked to provide guidance on winter pet care, emphasizing the importance of keeping pets warm, safe, and healthy during colder months.

Diabetes mellitus is a serious and increasingly common condition in both dogs and cats, particularly affecting older and overweight pets. The condition occurs when the pancreas is unable to produce sufficient insulin, a hormone vital for regulating blood sugar (glucose) levels. Insulin helps cells absorb glucose from the bloodstream to use as energy. Without enough insulin, glucose builds up in the blood, leading to hyperglycemia (high blood sugar levels), which can cause a range of health issues that compromise your pet’s overall well-being.

The decision to euthanize a cherished pet is undoubtedly one of the most heart-wrenching choices a pet owner can face. Our pets become beloved family members, sharing years of joy, companionship, and unconditional love. However, when a pet’s quality of life has diminished due to illness, age, or suffering, euthanasia can be a compassionate and selfless decision. It allows us to relieve them from pain and suffering, offering them a peaceful and dignified passing.

Canine influenza (CIV) is a highly contagious respiratory disease in dogs caused by the influenza A H3N8 virus. This virus originally began as an equine influenza strain that affected horses but eventually adapted to infect dogs, leading to widespread transmission between our canine companions. While the virus is easily spread among dogs, there is no evidence that canine influenza can be transmitted from dogs to humans, and there have been no reported cases of human infection with this virus.

Feline house soiling is one of the most common and frustrating behavioral problems that cat owners face. When a cat stops using its litter box, it can lead to profound consequences, including the cat being relegated to life outdoors, surrendered to a shelter, or, in unfortunate cases, euthanasia. However, this issue can often be resolved with the right approach, understanding, and adjustments.

When the warmer weather arrives, our pets are at greater risk of exposure to fleas. Fleas are not only a nuisance but can also transmit several serious diseases, including plague, a disease that many associate with medieval pandemics but which still exists today. The plague can affect both animals and humans, and if your pet becomes infected, there is a possibility they could transmit the disease to you. Therefore, it is crucial to take preventive measures to protect your pets and your family.

Heartworms are dangerous parasitic worms that live in the heart, lungs, and associated blood vessels of affected pets, causing severe lung disease, heart failure, and damage to other organs. The disease is most common in dogs, but cats and other animals can also be affected. Without proper treatment, heartworm disease can be fatal. Prevention is essential because heartworm infections are difficult and costly to treat, with potentially life-threatening complications.

As temperatures rise, it is crucial to remember that our pets are much more vulnerable to heat than humans. Unlike us, who regulate body temperature primarily through sweating, pets cool themselves primarily through panting and their foot pads. This makes them particularly susceptible to heat stress and heatstroke. Understanding how to care for pets during hot weather has evolved as veterinary knowledge and awareness of animal welfare have grown. Over the years, veterinarians and pet advocates have emphasized the need for owners to take extra precautions to protect their pets during the summer months.

Hyperthyroidism is one of the most common diseases affecting middle-aged and older cats. This condition occurs when the thyroid gland, located in the neck, produces excessive amounts of thyroid hormone, leading to an increase in the body’s metabolism. The thyroid hormone plays a critical role in regulating the body’s metabolic rate, so when too much is produced, it can cause a variety of symptoms that negatively affect your cat’s health and overall well-being.

Hypothyroidism is one of the most common hormonal disorders affecting middle-aged and older dogs. It occurs when the thyroid gland, located in the neck, produces insufficient amounts of thyroid hormone. This hormone plays a crucial role in regulating metabolism, cell function, and overall health. Without adequate thyroid hormone, your dog’s metabolism slows down, leading to a variety of symptoms that can affect their skin, hair, energy levels, and weight.

Infectious tracheobronchitis, commonly known as kennel cough, is one of the most frequent and highly contagious respiratory infections affecting dogs. This illness, characterized by inflammation of the upper airways, is generally mild but can lead to more serious complications in puppies, older dogs, or those with weakened immune systems. If untreated, kennel cough can progress to potentially fatal bronchopneumonia in puppies or chronic bronchitis in debilitated or senior dogs.

At Kipling Veterinary Hospital and Wellness Center, we believe in a proactive approach to your pet’s health. Our Wellness Philosophy is built on the foundation of preventive care, ensuring that your pet not only receives treatment when they are sick or injured but also receives regular check-ups and care to prevent issues before they arise. By focusing on wellness and preventive care, we can help your pets live longer, healthier, and happier lives.

First aid for pets is like first aid for humans—it can save lives and prevent further injury during an emergency. Just as with human first aid, the primary goal is to stabilize the pet until professional medical care is available. Over the years, the concept of pet first aid has evolved significantly. In the past, pet owners had limited access to information about emergency care for animals. However, with advancements in veterinary medicine and increased awareness of animal welfare, pet owners are now better equipped to manage emergencies.

The convenience of purchasing pet medications online can be appealing to many pet owners, but it comes with significant risks that could jeopardize your pet’s health. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has issued warnings about the dangers of buying veterinary drugs from unregulated internet pharmacies. While some online pharmacies are reputable, others are fronts for unscrupulous businesses that may sell counterfeit, expired, or unapproved products. These illegal or unregulated pharmacies pose a serious health risk to pets and could even put their lives in danger.

Just this side of heaven is a place called Rainbow Bridge. When an animal dies that has been especially close to someone here, that pet goes to Rainbow Bridge. There are meadows and hills for all of our special friends so they can run and play together. There is plenty of food, water and sunshine, and our friends are warm and comfortable.

As responsible pet owners, we naturally want to share our lives—and sometimes our favorite foods—with our furry companions. However, many common foods that are perfectly safe for humans can be extremely dangerous, even fatal, to pets. Over the years, as our understanding of animal physiology and veterinary care has evolved, veterinarians have identified a growing list of foods that pose serious health risks to dogs and cats. While some of these foods have been recognized as harmful for centuries, others are more recent discoveries, brought to light through ongoing research into pet health and nutrition.

Why Do Dogs Engage in Destructive Chewing? Dogs chew for a variety of reasons, and it is important to identify the underlying cause to properly address the behavior. Here are some of the most common reasons for destructive chewing:

Coprophagy, or the act of eating feces, is a behavior that many dog owners find unsettling and unpleasant. Although this behavior is common among dogs, it has been observed in various animals for centuries, particularly in conditions where resources were scarce or as part of instinctual survival strategies. Today, coprophagy continues to be a concern for pet owners, and while it can have multiple causes, it typically does not indicate a medical problem in most dogs. Some dogs may eat their own feces, while others are drawn to the feces of other animals, such as cats, deer, rabbits, or horses.

Arthritis is a common condition that affects many dogs, particularly as they age. Just like humans, dogs experience joint pain, stiffness, and inflammation because of this degenerative disease. Although they cannot verbally communicate their pain, dogs with arthritis show obvious signs of discomfort, which can range from difficulty moving to changes in their behavior and activity levels. Recognizing and addressing these symptoms is crucial for enhancing your pet's quality of life.

At Kipling Veterinary Hospital and Wellness Center, we recognize that one of the most challenging aspects of being a pet owner is accepting that our beloved dogs have much shorter lifespans than humans. This reality can bring about difficult moments, but it also offers opportunities for deeper reflection about life, love, and the special connection we share with our pets.

The Importance of Dental Care for Your Pet’s Overall Health Your pet’s dental health plays a crucial role in their overall well-being. Much like humans, pets can suffer from dental problems that, if left untreated, can lead to more severe health issues. Historically, the understanding of veterinary dental care has evolved considerably. Early pet owners often overlooked oral health, but today, veterinarians recognize that poor dental hygiene can have far-reaching effects on pets' overall health.

Kipling Veterinary Hospital and Wellness Center: Discover Your Dog’s Genetic Makeup with the Wisdom Panel DNA Test At Kipling Veterinary Hospital and Wellness Center, we believe that understanding your pet on a deeper level can enhance the care and connection you share with them. If you have ever wondered what breeds make up your dog’s unique appearance, behaviors, or personality, the Wisdom Panel DNA test provides you with the answers you have been seeking. More than just satisfying curiosity, this test offers valuable insights into your dog’s genetic makeup, helping you better understand their potential health risks and care needs.

At Kipling Veterinary Hospital Wellness Center, we are committed to providing pet owners with the knowledge and resources they need to keep their furry companions safe and healthy. One common health concern that many pet owners may not be aware of is the risk posed by intestinal parasites, particularly roundworms and hookworms. These parasites can have serious health implications for both pets and their human families, making it essential to understand how to recognize, prevent, and treat these infections.

Neutering (including spaying) of male and female dogs in the first year after birth has become routine in the U.S. and much of Europe, but recent research reveals that for some dog breeds, neutering may be associated with increased risks of debilitating joint disorders and some cancers, complicating pet owners’ decisions on neutering.

The early neutering of male and female dogs and its relationship to an increased risk of joint disorders and some cancers has recently become a concern, raising questions about the standard practice in the U.S. and much of Europe of neutering by 6 months of age. A noteworthy recent finding from this center is that there are major breed differences with small-dog breeds generally showing little vulnerability to neutering compared with breeds of larger body size.

Periodontal Disease Stages Periodontal disease progresses through stages, from healthy to severe, with increasing severity and treatment needs. • Stage 0 (Healthy): No signs of disease. Professional cleaning and home care are recommended. • Stage 1 (Gingivitis): Inflammation and plaque buildup. Reversible with professional cleaning and daily home care.