West Hills Animal Hospital





ASK CHEWBERT

Q:  Dear Chewbert             

I have had the sudden urge to urinate everywhere except my litter box.  Why am I doing this, and should my owner be concerned?

Felix the Cat

A:  Dear Felix

There are many reasons why you could be getting that urge.  It could be due to a health problem or an environmental change that is upsetting you.  My recommendation is to have your owner schedule an examination as soon as possible to get you back on track and in the right bathroom.  They can also give your owner information on ways of preventing this in the future.

Happy trails,
Chewbert

Q:  Dear Chewbert

I just moved away from my mom and siblings into a new home.  I am scared of everything and I miss my family.  What do you suggest for me to become braver in my new home?

Tiny the Puppy

A:  Dear Tiny

It may help if all of your interactions with new people and things are positive.  Ask your owners to take you places where you can meet other pets and other people.  This will help you to understand that the whole world is not necessarily a big and scary place.  I recommend that you go to the veterinarian’s office for “love-up” times, where the staff can cuddle with you, give you treats, and make you feel welcome.  Also, puppy classes are great places to meet new friends.  Remember, it is very important that all of your vaccines are completed on schedule.

Good Luck,
Chewbert

Q:  Dear Chewbert

I recently went to the river to go swimming with my owner and found a very tasty, dead fish to play with.  A couple of days later, I felt awful.  I am not hungry and  don’t feel like playing with my friends.  What could be wrong with me?

Nemo the Lab

A:  Dear Nemo

You could possibly have salmon poisoning disease.  This comes from eating a parasite-infected fish and it is a very serious thing.  You need to see the doctor right away so you can get checked out and on the road to recovery. 

Get well soon,
Chewbert

Q:  Dear Chewbert,

For the past few weeks, I have been itching and itching.  No matter how much I scratch myself, I can’t seem to get rid of the itch.  What is wrong with me?

Hoss the Rottweiler

A:  Dear Hoss

You need to get to the doctor quick!  There is a long list of things that can cause itching.  A friend of mine had a flea once and the scratching kept him awake all night.  This time of year, allergies can cause itching and that desperate need to rub your face and ears.  I am certain with a good check up you can get the relief you need and deserve.

Good luck,
Chewbert

Ferret