Mars Hill Animal Hospital ‘Dog Care Questions’

How good is a dog’s hearing ability?

Posted on: August 3rd, 2010

Dogs have a great sense of hearing. In fact, it is their second most developed sense (next to smell). Dogs can hear much sharper than humans. Not only can they detect sounds that are much too faint for humans, but they also can hear sounds pitched at frequencies above or below a human’s range. Dogs
Read More…

How far should I walk my dog?

Posted on: August 3rd, 2010

There is not one single right answer to this question. Some dogs will do fine with a two-block walk, while others can go two miles. A good rule of thumb is that the shorter the dog’s legs, the less distance he can go. Smaller dogs, like pugs or toys, won’t be able to go as
Read More…

What age can my puppy go to the groomer for a trim?

Posted on: May 15th, 2010

The only problem with taking a puppy to the groomer is that he’s exposed to a lot of other dogs, both while being groomed and while in the waiting room. To avoid the possibility of infection, you should wait to have your puppy groomed until he’s completed all of his puppy vaccinations. These are usually
Read More…

How often should I bathe my dog?

Posted on: May 15th, 2010

The simplest answer to this question is, whenever he needs it. Dogs who spend the most of their time indoors will not need much bathing, while dogs who are outside a lot, romping in the mud and trees (and possibly other smelly things) will need to be bathed more often. Also, some dogs’ coats will
Read More…

Should I shave my thick-furred dog in the summer?

Posted on: May 15th, 2010

My Alaskan Malamute seems so hot and miserable in the summer. Should I have her shaved? You’re right to be concerned about your dog’s comfort during hot weather. Northern breeds with thick fur like Malamutes and Huskies were developed for cold climates, not the 90 and even 100 degree weather some areas experience in the
Read More…

Who should do my dog’s surgery and what should I expect afterward

Posted on: May 15th, 2010

Ruptured cruciate ligaments will not heal on their own. They will only get worse. If your current veterinarian feels confident completing the surgery, then he or she can do it. Otherwise, you can ask for a referral to a board-certified surgeon to complete the procedure. This injury is just like what happens to athletes. It
Read More…