Rachael Monson

3 weeks ago | sidewalkdog.com | Rachael Monson

When it comes to keeping our canine pals healthy, one of the most important tools a pet parent can have is a reliable dog thermometer. Monitoring your dog’s temperature can help you detect fever and other health issues early on, making it easier to seek timely veterinary care. As a veterinary assistant with over a decade of experience, I’ve seen firsthand how knowing your dog’s normal temperature can make a world of difference.

3 weeks ago | sidewalkdog.com | Rachael Monson

Accidents happen! If you think your dog might be pregnant, each week will reveal new signs to watch for. Understanding these changes can help you prepare for her journey to motherhood. Before diving into pregnancy indicators, let’s first discuss how to recognize when your dog is in heat. Knowing these signs can help you prevent an unwanted pregnancy. Let’s get into it. Your dog’s heat cycle is important to understand if you want to spot a possible pregnancy.

1 month ago | sidewalkdog.com | Rachael Monson

Cancer can affect dogs in many ways. Symptoms will vary depending on where it starts, how fast it grows, and whether it spreads. The most common signs of cancer in dogs include:Lumps or Bumps: New growths on or under the skin that get bigger or don’t go away. Sores That Don’t Heal: Open wounds that stay the same or get worse over time. Weight Loss: Losing weight without a change in diet or activity. Changes in Eating/Drinking: A sudden change in appetite or skipping meals often.

1 month ago | sidewalkdog.com | Rachael Monson

When your dog won’t stop scratching, it’s tempting to grab the same hydrocortisone cream you’d use for your own bug bite or rash. But human medications aren’t always safe for pets, and in this case, that little tube could cause more harm than help. Human-grade hydrocortisone isn’t made for dogs. Here’s what dog parents need to know before applying anything. Hydrocortisone is part of a group of drugs called glucocorticoid steroids.

1 month ago | sidewalkdog.com | Rachael Monson

Canine distemper is a serious disease that affects dogs. Unfortunately, canine distemper can lead to death even with appropriate treatment. Thankfully, effective vaccines that protect dogs against canine distemper exist. Let’s dive into what you should know about canine distemper and how you can keep your dog safe. Canine distemper is caused by the canine distemper virus (CDV).