Pet Digest

🐾 Common Health Conditions in Dogs: What Every Pet Parent Should Know As loving dog parents, it’s our job to stay informed about the health issues our furry friends might face throughout their lives. Just like humans, dogs can suffer from a variety of health conditions—some mild, others more serious. Knowing what to watch out for can help you act quickly and give your pup the best care possible. Here are some common conditions in dogs, what causes them, and how to recognize the signs. --- 1. Allergies Dogs can be allergic to environmental factors (like pollen), food ingredients, or even fleas. Symptoms often include itching, red skin, ear infections, and excessive licking. Common signs: Itchy skin, sneezing, vomiting, diarrhea. Treatment: Depends on the cause—may include antihistamines, dietary changes, or flea prevention. 📖 Read more from VCA Hospitals --- 2. Dental Disease Periodontal disease is one of the most common medical conditions in adult dogs. It can cause pain, bad breath,...

How Your Local Pet Store Can Help You Avoid Prescription Diets How Your Local Pet Store Can Help You Avoid Prescription Diets Part 4 of the Natural Wellness Series When a veterinarian prescribes a special diet, most pet owners don't hesitate. But what if there's a better way? Local pet stores—especially independent, holistic ones—often carry nutritional alternatives that are more bioavailable, less processed, and potentially more effective than prescription diets. In this post, we’ll explore why these alternatives matter and how to navigate them. The Problem with Prescription Diets Veterinary prescription foods are formulated to target specific conditions like urinary crystals, kidney disease, or food sensitivities. But many of these formulas rely heavily on by-products, corn, soy, or hydrolyzed ingredients that are poorly digestible and nutrient-poor. Despite being marketed as specialized care, they’re often not made with the same quality control you might expect from their...