Oakland Veterinary Referral Services Blog

As a Veterinary Cardiologist, I hear this over and over when kitties come to see me for a heart check-up. The problem with cats is that they are sooooo smart that they can hide even the most severe forms of heart disease…until they find themselves in the emergency room. 

Most of us have at least good intentions of being more active in our daily lives. The execution, though, is not always as simple as the desire. Luckily for dog owners everywhere, pups can serve as surprisingly effective personal trainers. Keep reading to see how you can stay active with your dog and enjoy your very own pup-sonal training sessions.

Have you ever spent a lot of money on a toy or bed for your cat just to have them opt for a rubber band or an empty box instead? If you don’t want to break the bank on items for your cat, there are plenty of DIY cat projects you can do. Since cats can be a little…fickle, making something at home can help you save money. With the right supplies and a little bit of creativity, you can create an abundance of feline accessories for any occasion. 

Some dogs are up for anything…until it’s time to get in the car. Dog car anxiety can make it difficult to go to the vet, plan a vacation, or even visit the pet store. Some dogs feel mild discomfort that keeps them from settling down during a car ride (whether it’s long or short). 

Other dogs whine, pant, pace, or cry for the duration of the trip. If your dog is suffering from car anxiety, your friends at Oakland Veterinary Referral Services are here with helpful tips to mitigate this fear:

The older you get, the wiser you get if you learn from life. These white hairs in my doggy whiskers tell stories of the many lessons I’ve learned in my short years here. While I may walk on four legs, I think the dog wisdom I carry can be shared with anyone. 

In the dog days of summer, it is easy to find ways to bond with your dog. From long walks along the beach to hours playing with pals at the park, each day brings a new opportunity for bonding. While bonding activities might not come as easily during the winter, they are still plentiful. Here are four simple ways to increase your bond with your dog this winter:

Animals are truly remarkable creatures that enhance our lives in ways we don’t even realize. The human-animal bond has been known to lower stress, provide socialization, and give a sense of community and belonging. While dogs may often get the glory when it comes to heart-warming stories, cats deserve their turn in the spotlight. The healing power of cats is truly impressive, and here are five stories to prove it:

Winter brings a host of changes to your daily routine. Something you might not realize, however, is that it can also change your pet’s needs. Colder weather means different nutritional and spatial requirements for your pup. Figuring out what your dog really needs helps ensure optimal health and wellness throughout the year. Keep reading for some tips on winterizing your dog’s diet and living space.

People are not the only ones who can benefit from a New Year’s resolution that centers around health. With winter weather that’s less-than-desirable, and daylight that tends to end far too early, your typical healthy habits might not cut it. The team at Oakland Veterinary Referral Services is here to help you find some healthy habits for pets in the New Year:

If you want to help an animal feel welcome in your home, you have to create a space for them. This space should make them feel comfortable and safe and like they belong in your house. Creating these areas in your home means that you are truly opening your house for the love and affection of an animal. Here’s some tips on building a pet-friendly space in your home: