Ask AAHA: Answers from the experts
When you have questions about your pet, you need expert answers quickly. AAHA Answers addresses some of your most common questions below. Your AAHA-accredited veterinary hospital can answer the rest!
Why AAHA?
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Can I still take my pet to the vet during COVID-19?
Because of the important services veterinary hospitals provide in keeping pets healthy and safe as well as protecting public health, most veterinar... -
How can I prevent heatstroke in my pet?
After a long, cold winter, you’re likely ready to head outdoors for some fun in the sun. But, your adventure may be cut short if your pet develops... -
What is veterinary physical rehabilitation?
Physical therapy or rehabilitation has helped many people recover from injuries and surgery. Now, physical rehabilitation increasingly is being use... -
Should my pet get a massage?
The joys of a relaxing massage are no longer just for people. Pets also are reaping the benefits, as veterinary hospitals realize that the positive... -
How can I fix my pet's behavior problems?
Nothing is more frustrating than coming home to another pair of gnawed-on shoes, clawed furniture, or urine-soaked bedding. But consider the cause... -
What is my pet's poop telling me?
We really do love our pets—enough that we will pick up their feces and even examine it for signs our furry companion is not feeling well. What seem... -
Is my pet overweight?
Unfortunately, yes, it's likely that your pet is overweight. According to the 2018 Association for Pet Obesity Prevention survey, more than half th... -
How can my pet have stress-free veterinary visits?
Many of our beloved pets don’t go to the veterinarian for their recommended annual visit, forgoing the benefits of preventive medicine. The reason?... -
What should I know about my puppy?
So, you just used the AAHA Canine Life Stage Calculator to determine that your dog is in the puppy stage of life. Congrats! Knowing your dog’s life... -
Is my dog at risk for cancer?
According to the National Cancer Institute , approximately 6 million new cancer diagnoses are made in dogs each year. Since not all pets receive... -
What should I know about my mature adult dog?
So, you just used the AAHA Canine Life Stage Calculator to determine that your dog is in the mature adult stage of life. Congrats! Knowing your dog... -
Can I take my dog camping?
Dogs enjoy romping in the great outdoors, and your canine companion would love to be included in your next camping trip. However, before packing yo... -
When should I spay or neuter my pet?
As part of the battle against pet overpopulation, it used to be common practice to spay and neuter young pets as soon as it was safe to do so, and... -
What should I know about my young adult dog?
So, you just used the AAHA Canine Life Stage Calculator to determine that your dog is in the young adult stage of life. Congr ats! Knowing your... -
Why isn’t my cat using her litter box?
Housesoiling is one of the most common reasons owners abandon or surrender a cat, which unfortunately often leads to euthanasia. Cats do not urinat... -
How can I discourage my dog from running away?
Pets who run away can get lost, injured, or stolen. Although some dogs have a natural tendency to roam, there are many precautions you can take to... -
Why does my pet shed?
While the amount of fur your pet sheds cannot be changed, the best way to prevent pet hair from accumulating in your home and on your clothes is to... -
What is pancreatitis?
Pancreatitis is a painful inflammation of the pancreas that can make pets extremely ill. The pancreas is an abdominal organ located just below the...
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Is my cat's kneading normal?
Cats are mysterious creatures who often do strange things. Kneading may seem strange, but it is an entirely normal activity for our feline friends.... -
How can my pet have stress-free veterinary visits?
Many of our beloved pets don’t go to the veterinarian for their recommended annual visit, forgoing the benefits of preventive medicine. The reason?... -
Is a kidney transplant right for my pet?
Kidney failure is a leading cause of death in pet cats, with at least 30% of cats developing this devastating health condition as they age. Many... -
Is a pocket pet right for me?
A furry little pet who loves to snuggle in your shirt pocket can be a great family addition. But, although rodents such as rats, mice, gerbils, and... -
Why are regular veterinary visits important?
Routine veterinary visits help your pet live a long, healthy, and happy life. Annual or biannual exams nip emerging health problems in the bud and... -
How can I safely walk my reactive dog?
You can walk your leash-reactive dog safely around your neighborhood, but she will need dedicated training and management. Many canines are sweet a... -
What is a veterinary technician?
Veterinary technicians are animal nurses (and much more). In addition to their nursing duties, they act as patient advocates, phlebotomists,... -
What is veterinary laser therapy?
What is veterinary laser therapy? Veterinary laser therapy is an innovative treatment that has gained popularity in recent years as veterinarians... -
What should I know about my senior dog?
So, you just used the AAHA Canine Life Stage Calculator to determine that your dog is in the senior stage of life. Knowing your dog’s life stage... -
What are the most common household toxins for pets?
As a pet owner, you want to keep your furry friend safe and healthy, but your pet’s curious nature can sometimes get him into trouble. Animals... -
Should my pet be anesthetized for dental care?
Your pet must be anesthetized to allow thorough evaluation of his mouth, clean his teeth above and below the gumline, and treat painful dental... -
What is limber tail in dogs?
If you notice that your dog has a limp tail and is not wagging happily when you walk through the door, she may have a condition known as limber tai... -
Should my pet be vaccinated?
The recent debates about human vaccine safety have left many pet owners wondering whether their dogs and cats should be vaccinated. The short answe... -
Can I volunteer with my pet?
Volunteering with your pet is a wonderful way to share the love and joy that animals bring people. Our canine and feline friends have talents and... -
How can I tell if my pet has had a stroke?
Pet owners often don’t notice signs of a mild stroke in their companions since animals can’t say that they feel dizzy, can only see out of one eye,... -
How can I make my pet’s last day special?
Losing a loved one is never easy. Knowing your pet is nearing the end is bittersweet, because the grieving process often begins with a poor...
