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Not sure what counts as a pet emergency? If your pet is having trouble breathing, can't wake up, has been injured, is having seizures, or has a worsening medical condition, don't wait - visit the emergency vet immediately. Still unsure? When in doubt, it's always safer to get help.



How to Know if Your Pet Needs to See an Emergency Vet in Smyrna, GA

Shaking isn't always about being cold - your dog could be in pain, nauseated, scared, or even just excited! While some causes are harmless, others may need a vet's attention. If trembling is new or seems serious, don't wait.

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Dog Shivering and Trembling in Smyrna, GA: Causes and Treatments

From off-leash romps at Burger Park to dog-friendly cafes like ParkGrounds in Atlanta, there are plenty of fun, safe places nearby for your pup to play and socialize. Whether you want a fenced-in space or shady trails, there's something for every dog and their human.

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Top 6 Dog Parks in Smyrna, GA

Vaccines protect your dog from serious and potentially deadly diseases like rabies, distemper, and parvo. Following the proper vaccination schedule - starting as a puppy and continuing throughout adulthood - is essential for keeping your pet healthy and safe.



Dog Vaccination Schedule in Smyrna, GA and Why It's Important

If your dog is limping, it may be something minor like a torn nail or something more serious like a broken leg or torn ligament. Examine the paw if your dog allows it, but avoid manipulating the leg if they seem in pain. When in doubt, it's always best to consult your vet.



My Dog is Limping in Smyrna, GA, What Should I Do?

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As a pet owner, you might wonder why cats, unlike dogs and humans, rarely seem to contract Lyme disease. This tick-borne illness, caused by the bacterium Borrelia burgdorferi, can be a serious concern for many animals, but cats are notably less affected. Understanding the reasons behind this can help you better care for your feline friend and appreciate their unique biology and behaviors.Natural Groomers – One of the primary reasons cats are less likely to get Lyme disease is their fastidious grooming habits. Cats spend a significant portion of their day grooming themselves, which includes removing debris and parasites like ticks. This constant grooming often leads to the removal of ticks before they have a chance to transmit the Lyme disease bacterium.Lower Exposure – Cats, particularly indoor cats, are generally less exposed to tick-infested environments compared to dogs. Dogs are more likely to roam in areas where ticks are prevalent, such as tall grasses, wooded areas, and parks. In contrast, cats are more likely to stay closer to home and may have limited access to such environments, reducing their risk of tick bites.Immune System Differences – The feline immune system may also play a role in the lower incidence of Lyme disease. Studies suggest that cats have a different immune response to Borrelia burgdorferi compared to dogs and humans. This difference may help cats fend off the bacterium more effectively, preventing the establishment of the disease.Tick Preferences – Ticks have host preferences, and certain types of ticks are more likely to bite dogs and humans than cats. While cats can still be bitten by ticks, the species that are most efficient at transmitting Lyme disease may not prefer cats as hosts. This preference reduces the likelihood of cats being bitten by ticks that carry Borrelia burgdorferi.Symptoms Often Go Unnoticed – Even when cats are infected with the Lyme disease bacterium, they often do not show symptoms. This asymptomatic nature means that the disease goes unnoticed and unreported more frequently in cats than in dogs or humans. The absence of noticeable symptoms does not mean that cats are immune, but rather that they handle the infection differently.Prevention is Still Key – While the risk of Lyme disease in cats is low, prevention is still important, especially for outdoor cats. Here are some tips to keep your cat safe:1. Tick Prevention Products: Use veterinarian-recommended tick prevention treatments designed for cats. These can include topical treatments, collars, or oral medications.2. Regular Grooming Checks: Regularly check your cat for ticks, particularly after they’ve been outside. Focus on areas like the neck, ears, and between the toes where ticks may hide.3. Environmental Management: Maintain a tick-free yard by keeping grass short and removing leaf litter where ticks thrive. Creating a tick-safe zone can significantly reduce the risk of tick bites.4. Stay Informed: Keep up with regular veterinary check-ups and stay informed about tick prevalence in your area. Your veterinarian can provide the best advice tailored to your cat’s lifestyle and risk factors.Cats’ unique behaviors, biology, and lower exposure to tick habitats contribute to the uncommon occurrence of Lyme disease in felines. Their grooming habits, immune response, and the preferences of ticks themselves all play a role in protecting cats from this tick-borne illness. However, vigilance and preventive measures are still essential to ensure your cat’s health and safety. If you have any concerns or need guidance on tick prevention, don’t hesitate to <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" class="link" href="https://windyhillvet.com/contact/">contact us.</a>

Unlike dogs, cats rarely contract Lyme disease thanks to their grooming habits, lower exposure to ticks, and unique immune responses. Learn why felines are less affected - and how to keep your cat protected.



Understanding the Low Incidence of Lyme Disease in Cats

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Understanding the Low Incidence of Lyme Disease in Cats

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