petadmin, Author at Pet Shield Insurance https://www.petshield.ca/author/petadmin/ Alberta and Ontario pet insurance provider. Thu, 19 Oct 2023 18:45:09 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.5.3 https://www.petshield.ca/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/cropped-Icon-32x32.png petadmin, Author at Pet Shield Insurance https://www.petshield.ca/author/petadmin/ 32 32 Smile Bright: A Guide to Dog Dental Care and Avoiding Costly Tooth Extractions https://www.petshield.ca/guide-to-dog-dental-care/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=guide-to-dog-dental-care Thu, 19 Oct 2023 18:43:33 +0000 https://www.petshield.ca/?p=7604 A dog’s smile can warm your heart, but maintaining those pearly whites is crucial for their overall health and well-being. Neglecting your furry friend’s dental hygiene can lead to expensive tooth extractions, which can easily cost between $500 and $1,000. In this article, we’ll delve into the importance of dog dental care and share tips […]

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A dog’s smile can warm your heart, but maintaining those pearly whites is crucial for their overall health and well-being. Neglecting your furry friend’s dental hygiene can lead to expensive tooth extractions, which can easily cost between $500 and $1,000. In this article, we’ll delve into the importance of dog dental care and share tips to keep your canine companion’s teeth in top shape, both for their health and your wallet.

The Significance of Dog Dental Care

Just like humans, dogs can suffer from a range of dental problems if their oral health is ignored. Dental issues can lead to pain, discomfort, bad breath, and, in severe cases, the need for costly tooth extractions. Here are some common dental problems in dogs:

Plaque and Tartar Buildup

If left untreated, plaque and tartar can accumulate on your dog’s teeth, leading to gum inflammation and tooth decay.

Gingivitis

Gingivitis is an early stage of gum disease. It can cause red, swollen gums and discomfort for your dog.

Periodontal Disease

This is an advanced stage of gum disease that can lead to tooth loss, infection, and severe pain.

Preventing Dental Problems

The good news is that you can take several steps to prevent dental issues in your dog and avoid costly tooth extractions. Here’s how:

Regular Brushing

Just like us, dogs benefit from regular teeth brushing. Use a soft-bristle toothbrush and dog-specific toothpaste to clean their teeth. Start slowly, and make it a positive experience for your dog.

Dental Chews and Toys

Certain dog chews and toys are designed to help clean your dog’s teeth as they chew. Look for products that are approved by veterinary associations.

Dental Diets

Special dental diets are formulated to help reduce plaque and tartar buildup. Consult your vet for recommendations.

Professional Cleanings

Schedule regular dental check-ups with your veterinarian. They may recommend professional cleanings under anesthesia to address any existing dental problems.

Monitor Your Dog’s Dental Health

Regularly check your dog’s mouth for signs of dental issues, including bad breath, swollen gums, and loose or discoulored teeth. Early detection can prevent costly treatments.

Understanding the Cost of Tooth Extractions

If dental problems progress and tooth extractions become necessary, the costs can quickly add up. Factors that influence the cost include the number of teeth to be extracted, the complexity of the procedure, anesthesia, and post-operative care. To avoid these expenses, prioritize preventive care. You can easily run $500-$1,000 for a single tooth extraction on a dog. 

How Pet Shield Can Help

All Pet Shield Insurance policies offer annual coverage for preventative dental care. Depending on the coverage, your pet could get between $200-$600 annually in dental care coverage. This can help cover the cost of routine cleanings that can prevent larger issues down the line. 

Want to start getting dental protection for your dog? Click here to get a free quote!

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9 Ways to Honour Your Pet After They Pass https://www.petshield.ca/9-ways-to-honour-your-pet-after-they-pass/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=9-ways-to-honour-your-pet-after-they-pass Thu, 09 Feb 2023 15:47:10 +0000 https://www.petshield.ca/?p=7539 Discover 9 meaningful and heartfelt ways to commemorate and honor the life of your beloved pet after they pass away. From creating memorials to incorporating their memory into daily life, find comfort and solace in preserving their legacy.

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When a your pet passes away, the feeling can be devastating. You’ve lost an important member of your family and you want to honour the great bond, memories, and time you spent with one another. It is important to note that everyone processes grief differently and what the best way for you to process your grief might be different than someone else.

Here are 9 options you can consider to honour your late pet: 

1. Create a Memorial

This can be as simple as placing a photo of your pet in a special place or as elaborate as creating a dedicated memorial garden. Some people like to take there pets favorite toy or an item that was significant to them to a place that was special to both of you. 

2. Donate to an Animal Charity of Rescue Group

You can make a donation in memory of your pet to an organization that helps animals in need. If your pet was adopted from a shelter, making a donation to that shelter is a nice way to remember them. Your donation can help get a pet in need into a loving home. 

3. Create an Art Piece

If you have a bit of an artistic flair, you can make an art piece that reminds you of them. It could be a painting, sculpture, or another display of them. It doesn’t necessarily have to be an art piece of them. If your pet was named Daisy, a painting of a daisy flower can be a nice way to remember them. 

4. Plant a Tree

Planting a tree or another plant can be a lovely way to memorialize your pet. Some folks like to plant a tree on their pets favorite walking path or near somewhere of significance. 

5. Keep a Journal

Journaling can be a great outlet to express your feelings. You can write about your memories and the good times you shared together. 

6. Share Their Story

Journaling is a nice private way to honour your pet after they pass. Sometimes, sharing your story and your feelings can be beneficial in handling grief. 

7. Volunteer

Volunteering with pets at a local shelter or not for profit can be beneficial. It can also be a nice way to fill the metaphorical void that you have. 

8. Create a Book of Memories

Creating a memory book is a nice way to memorialize your pet after they pass. It gives you a way to look back and appreciate all of the good times you had together with photos, mementos, and keepsakes. 

9. Hold a Ceremony

You can hold a ceremony or memorial service for your pet. It could be as formal as spreading their ashes with your loved ones or as informal as going out for dinner with the rest of your family in their honour. It is up to you on what you need to do remember them best. 

Conclusion

Clearly, losing a pet can be a devastating experience. When you’re ready and you should find a way to honour them that means the most to you. Honouring a pet that has passed can help cope with the grief and sadness that comes with it. 

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Should I Brush My Dog’s Teeth? https://www.petshield.ca/should-i-brush-my-dogs-teeth/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=should-i-brush-my-dogs-teeth Wed, 20 Apr 2022 21:09:34 +0000 https://www.petshield.ca/?p=7210 I brush my teeth daily… what about my dog’s? This may be a surprising fact! To prevent periodontal disease, which affects 80% of dogs, it’s ideal for pet owners to brush their pet’s teeth as often as they would their own: 1-2 times per day. Dental disease is the most common clinical condition in pets, […]

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I brush my teeth daily... what about my dog's?

This may be a surprising fact! To prevent periodontal disease, which affects 80% of dogs, it’s ideal for pet owners to brush their pet’s teeth as often as they would their own: 1-2 times per day. Dental disease is the most common clinical condition in pets, and it is totally preventable. For most dogs, once brushing becomes part of their daily routine, they will reach a point where it’s expected, and even enjoyed.

To learn the steps to follow for teaching your dog to accept tooth brushing, as well as additional tips, visit VCA Animal Hospital’s webpage regarding brushing your dog’s teeth.

Unlike other pet insurance companies, Pet Shield’s coverages include exam fees, taxes, and comprehensive dental coverage. If your pet needs any kind of dental work, as well as related procedures: full incubation, anesthetic, pain medication, X-RAYS, etc., Pet Shield has them covered! We’re also one of the only pet insurance providers that covers dental cleanings!

To learn more about dental coverages for your pet, give us a call at 1-844-421-2121 to chat with one of our pet insurance experts!

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How to Submit a Pet Insurance Quote Online https://www.petshield.ca/how-to-submit-a-quote-online/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=how-to-submit-a-quote-online Wed, 24 Nov 2021 21:07:41 +0000 https://www.petshield.ca/?p=6952 Interested in getting a FREE quote with Pet Shield? If you’re looking into a Pet Shield policy for your dog or cat, we highly recommend giving us a call at 1-844-421-2121 to chat with one of our pet insurance experts. That way, you can have a full understanding of your possible coverages, as well any […]

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If you’re looking into a Pet Shield policy for your dog or cat, we highly recommend giving us a call at 1-844-421-2121 to chat with one of our pet insurance experts. That way, you can have a full understanding of your possible coverages, as well any other questions regarding the claims process. That said, if you’re looking to do a quick & easy pet insurance quote online, you came to the right place! Watch our video below to follow our step-by-step process.

Here are the steps:

  1. Click the get a quote button.
  2. Enter your pet’s information: name, breed, and birthdate.
  3. Enter your postal code and email.
  4. Choose a plan, and make sure to select your deductible amount before attempting to proceed.
  5. State your pet’s gender.
  6. List your veterinary practice. You can search the name, or find it by map.
  7. You’ve reached the checkout page! This contains a summary of your pet’s information and the plan you’ve selected. Now, all that’s left is to fill in your information: address, phone number, email, and payment information.
  8. When selecting that you’ve read and agree to our terms and conditions, as well as our declaration, you MUST click the hyperlink found at each point, and read and/or scroll down to the bottom. This will allow you to check that you agree, and proceed with your payment.

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How to Keep Your Pet Warm in the Winter https://www.petshield.ca/how-to-keep-your-pet-warm-in-winter/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=how-to-keep-your-pet-warm-in-winter Fri, 19 Nov 2021 21:15:39 +0000 https://www.petshield.ca/?p=6864 Cold Weather Tips for Pet Owners Winter is the harshest season in Canada, and each year, we all take steps to prepare for it. That leaves some of us wondering how to keep our pets warm in the winter, especially when taking them outside. We at Pet Shield have chosen our favourite tips for keeping […]

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Winter is the harshest season in Canada, and each year, we all take steps to prepare for it. That leaves some of us wondering how to keep our pets warm in the winter, especially when taking them outside. We at Pet Shield have chosen our favourite tips for keeping your pet warm and healthy during the winter!

Limit Time Outside

No dog is meant to spend huge amounts of time outside in the winter, and thick coats don’t protect all body parts. Ears, paws, and noses are left exposed. Lowering your pet’s exposure to harsh winter conditions is very important for their health. Don’t leave dogs outside unattended for any length of time on cold days. You should really only take them outside in conditions like that if they’re going to be active and exercise. Even then, you should shorten your time spent outside.

Don’t Leave Them in the Car

Just like with hot weather, leaving a dog in the car for extended hours is not a good idea in the cold. During the winter months, cars can get cold fast when left outside. For your pet’s safety and comfort, try to avoid situations where you have to leave them in a cold car.

Wipe Their Paws

When you take your pet for walks, there’s more than snow on the ground to be worried about. Dirt, salt, and other toxic chemicals like antifreeze can build up on their feet. Licking them to clean them off could cause your pet to ingest something toxic, especially antifreeze. Wipe your pet’s paws with a towel once you arrive home, and monitor their feet for any injuries caused by ice. You can also trim the hair between their toes to prevent an ice buildup.

Shelter Outside

We at Pet Shield highly recommend not leaving your pet outside for extended amounts of time, but if you have no choice but to leave them out for an hour or two, make sure they have a dry, roomy shelter out of the wind. To keep your pet safe, the shelter’s floor should be raised a few inches off the ground, and the floor should be covered with straw of another soft covering. Make sure they have plenty of food and that their water hasn’t frozen over, and remember, try not to leave them out for too long.

Winter Dress

We don’t recommend dressing up your pets for fun, but smaller, short-haired dogs can benefit from a little extra covering when the air is chilled. Just make sure to leave their head bare. If it’s so cold that you feel you should be covering their head, it’s probably best to not spend much time outside.

Know the Warning Signs

If your pet starts experiencing these symptoms, get them inside, and considering contacting your vet:

  • Whining, acting anxious
  • Constant shivering
  • Snow or ice on their hair or body
  • Slow movement, little to no movement
  • Looking for places to burrow

These can be signs of severe chills and/or hypothermia. Wrap your pet up in blanket to keep them warm once you get them safely to shelter, then reach out to your vet for further instruction. Sometimes, frostbite symptoms take a bit longer to appear, so make sure to keep an eye on your pet throughout the week to notice anything unusual. Keep an eye out for any painful or pale areas.

Pet Shield is Here!

Make sure your pet remains protected throughout the harshest season of the year, and always. Get a free quote today to discover how easy and inexpensive it can be to provide coverage for your best friend!

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Benefits of Adopting a Senior Dog https://www.petshield.ca/benefits-of-adopting-a-senior-dog/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=benefits-of-adopting-a-senior-dog Wed, 03 Nov 2021 19:36:23 +0000 https://www.petshield.ca/?p=6672 November is Adopt a Senior Pet Month We at Pet Shield thought that sharing our top benefits of adopting a senior dog would be a great way to celebrate! For many pet owners and families, a senior pet is the best possible addition to the family. Here’s why: A Good Home for a Good Dog […]

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We at Pet Shield thought that sharing our top benefits of adopting a senior dog would be a great way to celebrate! For many pet owners and families, a senior pet is the best possible addition to the family. Here’s why:

A Good Home for a Good Dog

Older dogs are adopted at a much lower rate than pups. It’s disheartening to think about these animals spending their golden years in shelters without human companions. When you adopt an older dog from the shelter, you can have a feeling of pride knowing that you’re changing a dog’s life, and offering a heart and home to someone who may not otherwise receive one. Many people are quick to adopt puppies and often won’t consider dogs over the age of five. The love you give your new, older dog will be reciprocated even more than you may realize. Shelters are usually overcrowded, and older dogs may be first to be euthanized. When you adopt a senior dog, you are not only providing it with a better life, but you’re also saving it from being put down.

Their Personality Has Developed

With an older, dog, you’re able to better understand the personality you’re adopting. A puppy not only requires training, but also time and effort to develop an understanding of the best training methods for them, as well as their likes/dislikes. When it comes to older dogs, you have a better likelihood of having this information right away, which can help both you and your dog bond with one another. You can do things like take your dog for walks without having to worry about leash training, or proper socialization. Adult dogs make great workout partners, snuggle buddies, and loyal companions. Not only that, but when you’re adopting an older dog, you can often learn their entire medical history in advance. Vaccinations have been taken care of, and trips too the vet are less frequent than with a new pup.

You Have an Easygoing Companion

With age comes a more relaxed state for most dogs. Less exercise is needed and they are less energetic throughout the day. For seniors living a more relaxed lifestyle, adult dogs can make perfect companions. If you’re interested in adopting but you’re used to a slower lifestyle, or don’t have hours of time to spend on training, walking, and visiting the dog park, a senior pet could be the right choice. Dogs with calmer temperaments will usually have better manners than youthful pups. This comes in handy when the delivery truck arrives, you have guests, and so on. Older dogs often have been socialized previously with both other dogs and humans, so they’ll be more likely to have positive interactions in the future.

They’re Already Trained

While puppies require a great deal of effort training in the early stages of your relationship, an older dog is ready to go for a walk, play fetch, etc. It’s also rare to find an adult dog that still needs to be housebroken. You can spend your early days with your new dog simply bonding and enjoying each other’s company. It’s much more stress-free. There’s a good chance simple commands like “sit” and “stay” will already be in your dog’s vocabulary. And believe it or not, older dogs can be more receptive to learning new commands due to their prior training.

Pet Shield is Here to Help

Pet Shield covers dogs (and cats) of all ages and the coverage does not change based on age. All we ask is that you provide us with your pet’s older pet test medical records before the policy underwriting is completed. This includes a complete exam, urinalysis and blood tests. Get a free quote today to discover how easy and inexpensive it can be to protect your pet!

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Natural Remedies for Your Dog https://www.petshield.ca/natural-remedies-for-dogs/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=natural-remedies-for-dogs Fri, 22 Oct 2021 22:18:51 +0000 https://www.petshield.ca/?p=6503 Homeopathic Remedies for Dogs Sometimes, the natural way is the best way! When your pet experiences minor bodily disturbances, a natural, at-home solution can be the easiest and most effective remedy. Here are Pet Shield‘s top natural remedies for dogs: Poison Control It’s very important to contact your veterinarian or animal poison control immediately to […]

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Homeopathic Remedies for Dogs

Sometimes, the natural way is the best way! When your pet experiences minor bodily disturbances, a natural, at-home solution can be the easiest and most effective remedy. Here are Pet Shield‘s top natural remedies for dogs:

Poison Control

It’s very important to contact your veterinarian or animal poison control immediately to help determine the level of toxicity affecting your pet. Poisonous substances are 100% no joke, and can cause death or other serious health issues. You may consider using hydrogen peroxide, a gastric irritant, to induce vomiting, but first make sure to ask about doing so during your consultation. There are some situations where inducing vomiting can make things worse by increasing damage to your pet’s esophagus. For mild cases of toxicity, Milk of Magnesia can help induce bowel movements.

Stomach Issues

Canned pumpkin with no added spices can help with your pet’s constipation. You can also add a bit of extra fiber (like Metamucil), broccoli, or diced prunes. For more severe cases, add a tablespoon of Milk of Magnesia to pet food. For muscle spasms and cramps, try Chamomile, which helps soothe the stomach. Chamomile tea can be added to dog food or your dog’s water bowl, or given by mouth with a syringe.

Minor Wounds

We at Pet Shield suggest using lavender oil for minor cuts or sores. It’s one of the most popular essential oils around the world, has a long list of benefits, and is gentle enough to be applied directly to the skin. Make sure to clean the wound first with mild soap and water, then keep it dry before applying the oil. More severe wounds, like bite wounds, will likely require a trip to the vet, antibiotics, or even surgery.

Cracked Paws

Shea butter and beeswax are great solutions for soothing and smoothing cracked skin, and locking in moisture.  Rubbing wither of these into your pet’s cracked paws should provide some relief. Another option is Vitamin E cream for paws, or, if your pet doesn’t mind baths, try adding Vitamin E oil to the bath. Just make sure that your pet doesn’t drink the water.

Anxiety/Stress

Many of us can recognize the unpleasantness anxiety brings to our physical and mental well-being. Lightning storms are a common fear for pets, but helping to lessen that fear can make the situation much easier on your furry friend. Some dogs suffer extreme thunderstorm anxiety. If this is the case for your dog, contact your vet to discuss their options. Safe, natural supplements like Zylkene can be very effective during thunderstorms, and can be given whenever you think a storm is coming.

Rough, Dry Coat

You can add some Omega-3 fatty acids to your dog’s diet to restore their coat’s natural oils. Look for liquid Omega-3 products that are free of mercury and other possible toxins. We at Pet Shield recommend checking with your vet for best type and dosage for your dog. Applying a dab of Vitamin E oil can also help soothe your pet’s dry skin. For a more persistent itch that doesn’t seem to be caused by fleas or ticks, try using a chamomile tea spritz. Prepare the tea as usual and allow it to cool before transferring to a BPA-free spray bottle and refrigerating for 3-5 days.

Bee Stings

You can treat bee stings by removing the stinger, then applying a baking soda paste consisting of one teaspoon of baking soda, cold water, and vinegar, to the affected area. Leave the paste on for about 10 minutes, then rinse it off with lukewarm water. If you have difficulty initially removing the stinger, try running a card or against the area to uproot it. If your dog has an allergic reaction to the sting, consult your vet, then you may administer one dosage of Benadryl every six hours.

Bad Breath

This one is short and sweet (literally)! After ruling out any serious dental issues like gingivitis or a broken tooth, you can add a couple drops of peppermint or spearmint oil into your dog’s water bowl to freshen their breath.

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Finding the Best Vet for Your Pet https://www.petshield.ca/finding-the-best-vet/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=finding-the-best-vet Thu, 23 Sep 2021 19:25:21 +0000 https://www.petshield.ca/?p=6414 How to Find the Best Vet for Your Pet Whether it be a new pet, a new home, or something else altogether – if you have to find a new veterinarian, this can be a process. Most pet owners want to make sure they can fully trust their pet’s medical care. Not only that, but […]

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How to Find the Best Vet for Your Pet

Whether it be a new pet, a new home, or something else altogether – if you have to find a new veterinarian, this can be a process. Most pet owners want to make sure they can fully trust their pet’s medical care. Not only that, but proximity to home, parking/accessibility, and other factors also come into play. Read on to learn Pet Shield‘s suggestions for finding the best vet in your area, for you and your pet!

Ask around

Don’t wait for an emergency to start looking for your vet. Talk to other pet owners in your circle: family members, friends, your Facebook connections, etc. Take the advice of those you trust, and look into reviews for the suggested vets and clinics. High ratings are important, but so is location/accessibility, and other factors like parking and hours of operation.

Another way to discover some of the best vets in your area is by using healthypet.com, hosted by the American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA), This site offers an online search for accredited animal hospitals anywhere in Canada or the United States. Accredited practices have completed the application process of the AAHA, which includes an on-site visit to evaluate the facilities and staff.

Visit the clinic

Getting a visual of what might be your pet’s new clinic can greatly impact your decision. Assess the waiting room and overall feel of the clinic. Note the number of people in the waiting room and ask about wait times. But remember that a full waiting room could just be the sign of multiple emergencies at the time.

Ask any questions

It makes sense that you’ll have questions for the person who may provide medical care for your fur baby. Make sure to ask:

  • What are your qualifications?
  • What equipment is found on site (such as ultrasound of endoscopy)?
  • Are any tests or treatments outsourced to a different clinic?
  • Does your clinic provide emergency care?
  • Are there multiple veterinarians? If so, who decides which vet will treat my pet?
  • What are your hours?

You should feel completely involved and in charge of the decision-making process, and well-versed on what could be offered to your pet by this vet and clinic. If you have any concerns, make sure to express them. You will want a vet who is understanding and considerate of these concerns. Knowledge and ability to diagnose disease is important, but communication with clients is equally important.

Veterinarians all have different personalities. Some may try to bond and establish more of a relationship with your pet, while others are more business-like and to the point. Ask yourself what type of vet will be best for you.

Watch Your Pet

Bring your pet down to the clinic during your visit, especially if they’re comfortable with short trips. You may be able to tell a lot from your pet’s body language. You’ll want to see your pet react to the vet they way they might with a friend at home. 

A comfortable pet should demonstrate these behaviours:

  • Eager to enter the building
  • Relaxed attitude
  • Moderate alertness, interest in surroundings

Whereas an uncomfortable may demonstrate these behaviours: 

  • Clung to your side
  • Stiff or jolted movements
  • Whining
  • Ears pinned down
  • Refusing food
  • Excessive panting

Try your best to make the vet’s office a fun place for your pet. Try taking extra trips to the clinic throughout the year for things like weigh-ins, or just a treat, so not all experiences involve uncomfortable prodding or needles.

Cost VS Value

When comparing prices with other clinics, remember that one vet’s price may include things that others don’t. For example, one may include painkilling medication and monitoring, while another vet’s price may not include these necessary treatments. Specify that you are asking for the total price of a procedure. Clinics will also have overhead costs that vary – practices in urban areas may have higher prices than those in smaller towns.

The easiest way to ensure your pet is receiving the best care for your money is having pet insurance! Check out Pet Shield’s Plans & Coverages page today to see what pet insurance could help cover.

Trial and Error

The first veterinary clinics you look into might not be the right fit for you or your pet. That’s okay! Don’t let the process discourage you. A little trial and error can end up with the best
result – a clinic where you are getting your money’s worth, and that you and your pet both feel happy visiting.

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Signs You Should Take Your Dog to the Vet https://www.petshield.ca/signs-you-should-take-your-dog-to-the-vet/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=signs-you-should-take-your-dog-to-the-vet Thu, 09 Sep 2021 22:06:00 +0000 https://www.petshield.ca/?p=6345 Should I take my dog to the vet? This can be a tough decision. Many pet emergencies aren’t subtle, but some problems that can be potentially life-threatening, like bloating, can begin as symptoms that seem minor. We at Pet Shield are here to help navigate through this gray area and make sure your pet gets […]

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Should I take my dog to the vet?

This can be a tough decision. Many pet emergencies aren’t subtle, but some problems that can be potentially life-threatening, like bloating, can begin as symptoms that seem minor. We at Pet Shield are here to help navigate through this gray area and make sure your pet gets the care they need, when they need it.

Emergency Symptoms

First thing’s first – if you notice your pet demonstrating any of these symptoms, this is cause for concern, and you should take them to the vet right away:

  • Seizures
  • Difficulty breathing, stopped breathing, or unconsciousness
  • Repeated vomiting, or vomiting blood
  • Bleeding from the mouth, nose, or eyes
  • Hard, swollen abdomen
  • Open wounds, or possible broken bones
  • Visible shaking or whining from extreme pain
  • Poisoning from eating something toxic

Abnormal Change in Eating Habits

It’s normal for your pet’s easting routine to change slightly from time to time, but a total loss of appetite can be a sure sign to visit a veterinarian.  

Vomitting 

If your pet vomits more than once within a 12-hour period, it’s best to take them to the vet. Though they may not be experiencing life-threatening symptoms, frequent vomiting is a sign of a health issue that needs attention.

Excessive Thirst

Make sure you have an idea of just how much water your dog drinks each day. If your dog is drinking a lot more than usual, this could be a developing kidney disease or diabetes. Pay attention to how often you’re refilling their water bowl or taking them out to pee.

Major Change in Energy Levels

A major lack of energy and enthusiasm is a sign that something could be troubling your dog. Regular fatigue can often be related to high temperatures, but you should see a vet if these symptoms last more than two days.

Rough or Dry Coat

A healthy dog’s coat will be thick, shiny, and soft. If your dog’s coat is rough, dry, or shows bald patches, this could be an indicator for a health concern. The cause of this could be an allergy, dietary concern, skin disease, etc.

Unusual Stool

Your dog should have small, firm, moist stools. Dry, hard stools may be a sign of health dietary problems or dehydration. Take your dog to the vet if they show any of these symptoms:

  • diarrhea for 24 hours or longer
  • worms in stool
  • blood or mucus in the stool
  • straining

If you notice your dog is scooting or dragging their behind, they may have worms, diarrhea, infected anal glands, or a urinary tract infection.

Sudden Weight Loss

Regardless of your dog’s initial weight, rapid weight loss is cause for concern, and should be examined by a vet. If your dog is losing weight quickly, this could be due to a serious health concern.

Cloudy or Red Eyes

An infection or injury to the eyes can result in cloudy or red eyes, discharge, or constant squinting from your dog. If this happens, take your dog to the vet right away – some diseases affecting the eyes can progress to blindness. Your vet should be able to offer medication to cure an infection.

Don’t forget pet insurance!

If your dog is experiencing any of these symptoms, a trip to the vet is necessary, but it can be costly. Pet insurance makes sure you and your pet can always be prepared for the worst. To learn more about Pet Shield’s coverages, give us a call at 1-844-421-2121.

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Does My Pet Insurance Cover Dental? https://www.petshield.ca/does-my-pet-insurance-cover-dental/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=does-my-pet-insurance-cover-dental Thu, 02 Sep 2021 22:21:44 +0000 https://www.petshield.ca/?p=6299 If you’re paying for pet insurance, you want dental coverage. But with most pet insurance companies, there’s usually a catch. Often, these companies will only cover a portion of the bill associated with the diseased tooth. This excludes other teeth, cleanings, X-Rays, anesthetic, etc. It’s a sneaky move on their part! Unlike other pet insurance […]

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If you're paying for pet insurance, you want dental coverage.

But with most pet insurance companies, there’s usually a catch. Often, these companies will only cover a portion of the bill associated with the diseased tooth. This excludes other teeth, cleanings, X-Rays, anesthetic, etc. It’s a sneaky move on their part!

 

Unlike other pet insurance companies, Pet Shield’s coverages include exam fees, taxes, and comprehensive dental coverage. If your pet needs any kind of dental work, as well as related procedures: full incubation, anesthetic, pain medication, X-RAYS, etc., Pet Shield has them covered! We’re also one of the only pet insurance providers that covers dental cleanings!

Not only does dental care improve your pet’s breath, it can contribute to many aspects of your pet’s health. Periodontal disease, a disease that affects the teeth and gums, is very common for both dogs and cats. Periodontal disease affects 80% of dogs and 70% of cats as early as 3 years old. It can lead to infected gums, tooth loss, pain, difficulty eating, and infection and disease in other parts of the body. Dental disease is the most common clinical condition in pets, and it is totally  preventable. Taking care of your pet’s dental health is actually one of the best ways to improve and prolong their life.

Dental diseases can eventually lead to problem’s with your pet’s organs, such as the heart, liver, or kidneys. Caring for your pet’s teeth can help prevent much larger health problems, which also saves you a lot of money  in the long term!

If you’re looking for pet insurance, make sure to ask about dental coverage. Ask specific questions, like “is this type of treatment only covered if it’s recommended by a veterinarian?” Take a look at our pet insurance comparison chart below to see how Pet Shield stands out from the pack.

To learn more about dental coverages for your pet, give us a call at 1-844-421-2121 to chat with one of our pet insurance experts!

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