Here are four pieces of advice you may have been given years ago that have actually proved to be false! A couple of these we were told over and over again. This just goes to show when it comes to your dog, it is probably a good idea to talk with dog experts and not those friends and family members who are really sure of themselves.
Myth: Parasite prevention is only necessary in spring and summer.
While it varies by region of the country, it’s true that dogs and cats are generally more likely to come into contact with fleas, ticks and mosquitoes (which can transmit heartworms) during the warmer months. But most veterinarians recommend giving your pet parasite preventive medication year-round because it’s difficult to predict when parasite season will be and fleas and some ticks can lurk in your home all year long — even in the winter. What’s more, some intestinal parasites, like roundworms, can infect your animal at any time of the year.Myth: Neutering May Make a Dog Go Soft
Some pet owners are hesitant to neuter their dog because they fear it will cause him to lose skills that are characteristic of certain breeds like hunting and alerting to strangers. While the surgery, if performed early, may reduce some aggressive behaviors, it generally won’t affect breed traits. There are also many benefits to neutering a dog, including helping to curb annoying puppy behaviors like humping, urine marking and roaming.Myth: Brushing a pet’s teeth every day isn’t necessary
You really do need to brush your dog or cat’s teeth every day. We’re not kidding. If the plaque that builds up on your pet’s teeth isn’t removed within 24 to 38 hours, it can harden into tartar. And too much tartar buildup can lead to dental disease.Myth: Itchy ears means your pet has ear mites
Dogs and cats scratch their ears for many reasons. While your pet could have ear mites, the itching could also be due to allergies, yeast and/or bacterial infections or other problems.
While we are not so sure some of those strange behaviors will stop with neutering — we have an adult dog who still enjoys humping his toys — we do appreciate the information given above.
As a matter of fact, there is more to read over on Care 2 and, if you also have a cat, it gives terrific information about Fluffy peeing outside her litter box!
Just goes to prove, what was true yesterday does not mean it is the same today! Read and keep your dog healthy and happy!
