What to Know About Microchipping Your Pet

El Dorado Hills dog microchipped.

Microchipping is just one element of pet ownership that gives pet owners a semblance of control in unexpected situations. Not a substitute for physical identification tags, microchips add a layer of protection in the case of a lost or missing pet. If you’ve ever wondered about microchipping your pet, we’ve got all the answers for you here:

Pets on the Run

Undoubtedly, many cats and dogs will not willfully take off on their own. Unfortunately, it does happen occasionally.Pets get curious about something they see, hear or smell and take off in hot pursuit. Their intention isn’t to stay away from home, but sometimes they get picked up, or become disoriented about their location. If the right opportunity arises, even a strictly indoor cat might just feel the need to explore. How do you begin to find your pet once they’ve left your property?

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Does the Rattlesnake Vaccine Belong in Your Pet Vaccine Arsenal?

The goal of pet wellness is, of course, to keep your pet well. There are many things that go into this regiment, such as pet wellness examinations, parasite prevention, and screening testing. Of course, another large part of keeping our patients at MarketPlace Veterinary Hospital healthy is pet vaccines.

Just as in people, though, not every vaccination is needed or even recommended for every pet. Our veterinary staff works to assess each individual patient to come up with personalized recommendations based on lifestyle and other risk factors. One of the pet vaccines that is most variable is the rattlesnake vaccine. Understanding why we might recommend it can help you to make the best decision for your furry friend.

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Prepared for the Unexpected: Is Pet Insurance Right for You?

A dog with a bandaged paw.
Boston terrier dog with injury and bandage in paw lying down and resting with sad face portrait

Having a pet insurance policy is one of the best ways you can cover unexpected veterinary experiences. Most pets experience an illness or emergency in their lifetime that cannot be anticipated. Having pet insurance can save you the heartbreaking decision of whether or not to pursue a life-saving surgery or treatment that otherwise is not in your budget. 

But choosing a pet insurance policy is something not to be rash about. Doing research and asking a lot of questions can inform you on the right policy for your furry friend. The team at MarketPlace Veterinary Hospital is here with some insight on pet insurance and all of the aspects to consider to find the right option for you.

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A Dental Dilemma: Are Dog Dental Treats Worth It?

Dog chewing dental treat.

Sure, your dog loves their daily dental treat. They love anything edible, really. But when you are purchasing these dog dental chews (probably spending a lot of money each month), you may wonder if they stack up to the hype. 

Dental chews are an easy go-to for pet owners who want an easier way to care for their dog’s dental care. In reality, there are some things to consider about relying on dental treats for all that it’s promised to do.

The team at MarketPlace Veterinary Hospital is here to give you the insight into what to expect with dental chews for your Fido friend.

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What A Smile! Tips for Brushing Your Pet’s Teeth

A person brushes a dog's teeth.

As humans, brushing our teeth is (hopefully)part of our daily routine. Without it, we know that plaque, tartar, and odor would build up until the acrid taste and ache of disease emanated unpleasantly from our mouths.

Our pets might not have the ability to brush their own teeth, but they are at risk for these same oral health issues without regular efforts to keep the teeth and gums clean. Many modern pet owners are coming to understand the important role that pet dental health has on an animal’s health and longevity. Keeping your furry friend’s teeth clean also vastly improves the condition of their breath.

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Beyond Fresh Breath: The Importance of Pet Dental Care

El Dorodo Hills dog's teeth

Judging by the amount of toothpaste and mouthwash commercials on TV, it would appear that most of us are on board with dental hygiene. Although we can’t imagine not brushing our teeth every day and checking in with the dentist a couple of times per year, the majority of pet owners ignore their furry friend’s oral health. 

According to the American Veterinary Dental Association, up to 80% of dogs and 70% of cats have some form of dental disease by the time they reach the age of 3. When left unchecked, dental disease can result in pain, tooth decay, tooth loss, and infection, both of the tissues in the mouth and the vital organs of the body. Poor oral health can actually decrease your pet’s lifespan!

Preventive pet dental care is a vital component of your pet’s well being, and MarketPlace Veterinary Hospital wants you to understand how regular home care, routine examinations, and professional dental cleanings can help.

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Pet 911: Do You Know How to Recognize a Veterinary Emergency?

El Dorado Hills dog pet emergency

There are many unavoidable truths to life, and one is that almost everyone we know will experience some form of a medical emergency. This is also true of our pets. 

It’s understandable to not want to focus on such a distressing topic, but when your pet gets hurt or falls ill, it is crucial to be prepared. Knowing how to discern whether or not it is a veterinary emergency is key to a better prognosis and recovery.

The team at MarketPlace Veterinary Hospital is here to explain pet emergencies and what you can do to help your pet.

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‘Tis the Season for Holiday Pet Safety

Sacramento dog with safe treat

The holiday season has officially arrived, a fact that has most Americans busily shopping, prepping, and decking the halls. Regardless of how you’re choosing to celebrate the winter holidays this year, your pets are sure to be included in the seasonal fun. 

Keeping the season merry and bright for your furry friends means keeping an eye on holiday pet safety, and your friends at Marketplace Veterinary Hospital are here to help!

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Pet Wellness Matters!

El Dorado Hills Pet Wellness Dog

Most pet owners wouldn’t hesitate to bring their pets to the veterinarian if they were sick or injured, but it’s easy to let those annual checkups slide, especially if your pet seems healthy. 

Pet wellness is about more than a trip to the veterinarian when needed, thouogh. Annual wellness examinations are truly one of the best investments you can make in your pet’s health, happiness, and longevity.

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