Pet Poison Prevention Month: Do You Know What Toxins Are In Your Home and Yard?

Orange tabby cat sniffing indoor plant.

This month we are raising awareness about pet poison prevention. This is a great opportunity to explore the poisons that are all too common around the house that can harm pets. These range from mild toxicity to fatal when ingested, which is why it is of the utmost of importance to know how to recognize them and the signs of pet toxicity. 

Your friends at MarketPlace Veterinary Hospital want to inform you about this topic, so you can keep your pet safe and sound. 

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Felines 101: Why Do Cats Knead?

El Dorado Hills cat kneads bed.

If you own a cat, then you know that felines tend to exhibit a lot of unusual behavior that seems to have no clear cut rationale. One of the most common (and most confusing) cat behaviors is when they “make biscuits,” or knead your furniture, the blanket on your bed, or even your body. 

The team at MarketPlace Veterinary Hospital wants to help you understand why cats knead so you can develop an even closer bond with your favorite feline.

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A Dental Dilemma: Are Dog Dental Treats Worth It?

Dog chewing dental treat.

Sure, your dog loves their daily dental treat. They love anything edible, really. But when you are purchasing these dog dental chews (probably spending a lot of money each month), you may wonder if they stack up to the hype. 

Dental chews are an easy go-to for pet owners who want an easier way to care for their dog’s dental care. In reality, there are some things to consider about relying on dental treats for all that it’s promised to do.

The team at MarketPlace Veterinary Hospital is here to give you the insight into what to expect with dental chews for your Fido friend.

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What A Smile! Tips for Brushing Your Pet’s Teeth

A person brushes a dog's teeth.

As humans, brushing our teeth is (hopefully)part of our daily routine. Without it, we know that plaque, tartar, and odor would build up until the acrid taste and ache of disease emanated unpleasantly from our mouths.

Our pets might not have the ability to brush their own teeth, but they are at risk for these same oral health issues without regular efforts to keep the teeth and gums clean. Many modern pet owners are coming to understand the important role that pet dental health has on an animal’s health and longevity. Keeping your furry friend’s teeth clean also vastly improves the condition of their breath.

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Beyond Fresh Breath: The Importance of Pet Dental Care

El Dorodo Hills dog's teeth

Judging by the amount of toothpaste and mouthwash commercials on TV, it would appear that most of us are on board with dental hygiene. Although we can’t imagine not brushing our teeth every day and checking in with the dentist a couple of times per year, the majority of pet owners ignore their furry friend’s oral health. 

According to the American Veterinary Dental Association, up to 80% of dogs and 70% of cats have some form of dental disease by the time they reach the age of 3. When left unchecked, dental disease can result in pain, tooth decay, tooth loss, and infection, both of the tissues in the mouth and the vital organs of the body. Poor oral health can actually decrease your pet’s lifespan!

Preventive pet dental care is a vital component of your pet’s well being, and MarketPlace Veterinary Hospital wants you to understand how regular home care, routine examinations, and professional dental cleanings can help.

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Pet 911: Do You Know How to Recognize a Veterinary Emergency?

El Dorado Hills dog pet emergency

There are many unavoidable truths to life, and one is that almost everyone we know will experience some form of a medical emergency. This is also true of our pets. 

It’s understandable to not want to focus on such a distressing topic, but when your pet gets hurt or falls ill, it is crucial to be prepared. Knowing how to discern whether or not it is a veterinary emergency is key to a better prognosis and recovery.

The team at MarketPlace Veterinary Hospital is here to explain pet emergencies and what you can do to help your pet.

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‘Tis the Season for Holiday Pet Safety

Sacramento dog with safe treat

The holiday season has officially arrived, a fact that has most Americans busily shopping, prepping, and decking the halls. Regardless of how you’re choosing to celebrate the winter holidays this year, your pets are sure to be included in the seasonal fun. 

Keeping the season merry and bright for your furry friends means keeping an eye on holiday pet safety, and your friends at Marketplace Veterinary Hospital are here to help!

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Pet Wellness Matters!

El Dorado Hills Pet Wellness Dog

Most pet owners wouldn’t hesitate to bring their pets to the veterinarian if they were sick or injured, but it’s easy to let those annual checkups slide, especially if your pet seems healthy. 

Pet wellness is about more than a trip to the veterinarian when needed, thouogh. Annual wellness examinations are truly one of the best investments you can make in your pet’s health, happiness, and longevity.

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Simple Steps for Successful Housetraining

Housetraining El Doroado Hills Dog

Teaching a new puppy or adult dog the ropes when it comes to basic commands, the rules of the home, and of course housetraining, are all keys in raising a well adjusted dog. Training dogs also requires repetition and consistency to establish those basic training needs for life. 

The team at MarketPlace Veterinary Hospital is here to give you some simple suggestions to successfully house training dogs. Let’s get started!

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