Critter Corner

05/01/2026

UTAH IS RATTLESNAKE COUNTRY! 🐍
Spring means rattlesnakes are on the move — keep your pets safe with these tips:

HOW TO AVOID RATTLESNAKE BITES:
Learn what local rattlesnakes look like (e.g., Great Basin rattlesnake) and study photos before hikes.

Stay on cleared trails; avoid brush, tall grass, and rocky areas.

Keep dogs on a short leash; don’t let them wander.

If you see a snake, calmly back away with your pet out of striking distance.

Warn others nearby and keep children/pets away.

Never handle, kill, or throw things at a rattlesnake — it increases bite risk and is illegal in Utah.

If you hear a rattle, don’t panic; locate the sound before moving.

IF YOUR PET IS BITTEN:
Get to a veterinarian IMMEDIATELY — stay calm and act fast.

Do NOT try home remedies: don’t suck out venom, cut the wound, use a tourniquet, give aspirin/meds, or apply ice.

TREATMENT YOUR VETERINARIAN MAY PROVIDE:
IV fluids, pain meds, antibiotics, and — if available — antivenom administered by a licensed vet.

KEEP RATTLESNAKES OUT OF YOUR YARD
Remove brush, wood, rock, and junk piles.

Control rodents (limit bird feeders/water sources).

Don’t kill or scare away harmless snakes (e.g., gopher snakes) — they can deter rattlesnakes.

IDENTIFYING RATTLESNAKES
Rattlesnakes: broad triangular head, vertical pupils, tail tipped with a rattle.

Gopher (nonvenomous) snakes: slender pointed tail, round pupils; they may hiss and vibrate tails but lack a rattle.

If unsure, treat any snake as venomous and leave it alone.

For more safety tips and detailed information, check Wild Aware Utah. https://www.wildawareutah.org/wildlife/snakes/

02/27/2026

MARK YOUR CALENDAR! Best Friends Animal Society is holding their annual low cost vaccination clinic on Saturday March 28th.
https://www.facebook.com/events/1555641809054588/?acontext=%7B%22event_action_history%22%3A[%7B%22surface%22%3A%22home%22%7D%2C%7B%22mechanism%22%3A%22attachment%22%2C%22surface%22%3A%22newsfeed%22%7D]%2C%22ref_notif_type%22%3Anull%7D

Send a message to learn more

01/29/2026

🐾 February is Pet Dental Health Month! 🐾

Did you know that just like us, our furry friends need regular dental care? This month, we’re shining a spotlight on the importance of pet dental health! Healthy teeth and gums can help prevent serious health issues down the road.

🦷 Why is dental health important for pets?

> Prevents bad breath
> Reduces the risk of gum disease
> Supports overall health and longevity
> Helps avoid painful dental issues

We encourage all pet parents to make an appointment with their veterinarian for a dental health check-up. Regular vet visits ensure your pet’s smile stays bright and healthy!

Let’s keep those tails wagging and those smiles shining! 🐶🐱

Feel free to drop by our store for dental care treats and toys that promote healthy chewing. Your pets will thank you!

11/21/2025

🌟 Critter Corner extends heartfelt wishes to all our wonderful clients and their beloved fur-babies! May you have a joyful, healthy, and safe Thanksgiving filled with love, laughter, and cherished moments. We also hope the following Thanksgiving pet safety tips will be useful to ensure your furry friends stay happy and safe during the festivities. 🦃💕

Pawsitively Thankful: Tips for a Safe Thanksgiving with Pets!

Keep Food Out of Reach
While it’s tempting to share your feast, many Thanksgiving foods can be harmful to pets. Common items to keep away from furry paws include:
• Turkey Skin: Fatty and rich, it can lead to gastrointestinal upset or pancreatitis.
• Onions and Garlic: These can be toxic, affecting red blood cells and leading to anemia.
• Grapes and Raisins: Even tiny amounts can cause kidney failure in dogs.
• Chocolate and Sweets: These contain substances harmful to pets, and some sugar substitutes, like xylitol, are extremely toxic.
Ensure all food is securely stored and inform guests not to feed your pets from the table.

Create a Safe Space
Thanksgiving gatherings can be chaotic, with many unfamiliar faces and loud noises. Designate a quiet space for your pet where they can retreat and feel safe. This area should include their bed, toys, and water. If your pet is anxious around large groups, this will help to reduce their stress and allow them to enjoy the holiday in a controlled environment.

Watch Out for Decorations
Many Thanksgiving decorations can pose threats to pets, particularly if they are curious or prone to chewing. Avoid using candles, as they can tip over and cause fires. Instead, consider battery-operated options for ambiance without the risks. Ensure that decorative items like cornucopias, string lights, and small ornaments are out of reach.

Keep the Doors Closed
With guests coming and going, it’s easy for pets to dart outside. Make sure all doors are securely closed or install pet gates to keep them safely indoors. This is especially important if your pets aren’t accustomed to new people or outside environments.

Be Cautious with Guests
Not all guests may be as mindful of your pet’s safety. Communicate with your friends and family about your pet’s needs. Remind them to keep food off the floor and to avoid encouraging any begging. If your pet is shy or stressed, let people know to give them space or consider crating them if the gathering will be large.

Monitor Holiday Plants
Many popular plants during Thanksgiving, like poinsettias, holly, and mistletoe, can be toxic to pets. Be cautious and keep these plants out of reach. Instead, opt for pet-safe alternatives or decorations that uplift your home without risking the health of your furry friend.

Emergency Preparedness
In the event that an accident occurs, have a plan in place. Keep the number for your veterinarian and local emergency veterinary services handy. Additionally, having pet-safe poison control contacts available can alleviate stress in emergency situations.

By implementing these tips, you can create a Thanksgiving celebration that’s not only delicious but also safe for your four-legged family members. After all, they deserve to enjoy this special time just as much as we do!

08/07/2025

🦷 Importance of Pet Dental Health
Maintaining good dental health for pets is crucial for their overall well-being. Just like humans, pets can suffer from dental issues that can lead to serious health problems if not addressed. Here are some key reasons why pet dental health is important:

🐾 Prevents Dental Disease
Regular dental care helps prevent periodontal disease, which is a common issue in pets. This disease can lead to gum inflammation, tooth loss, and pain.

🦷 Reduces Bad Breath
Bad breath in pets is often a sign of dental problems. Regular brushing and dental check-ups can help keep their breath fresh and pleasant.

❤️ Supports Overall Health
Poor dental health can lead to bacteria entering the bloodstream, potentially affecting vital organs such as the heart, liver, and kidneys. Maintaining dental hygiene can help prevent these serious health issues.

💰 Saves Money
Preventive dental care is often less expensive than treating advanced dental diseases. Regular check-ups and cleanings can save pet owners from costly procedures down the line.

🐶 Enhances Quality of Life
Healthy teeth and gums contribute to a pet's comfort and happiness. Pets with dental pain may be less active and less willing to play, affecting their overall quality of life.

06/21/2025

This powerful five-minute video demonstration is a crucial resource that will safeguard your dog's life.

Why You Should Never Leave Your Dog in a Hot Car-Even For Just a Few Minutes

Just five minutes of your time RIGHT NOW could be the difference between life and death for your beloved dog(s)!

Veterinarian, Dr. Ernie Ward, undertakes a sizzling experiment to see what it feels like to a dog to be left in a parked car for thirty minutes during warm weather. As the the mercury rises, it becomes quickly evident that a hot car can be a fatal place for a dog.

Dr. Ernie Ward undertakes a sizzling experiment to see what it feels like to a dog to be left in a parked car for thirty minutes during warm weather. As the ...

06/18/2025

HEAT STRESS – SUMMER RISKS FOR YOUR PETS
As the temperature rises and summer arrives, it is important to take extra steps in protecting your pets against the heat to prevent heatstroke, heat exhaustion, and other hot-weather ailments. Whether you are out for a walk, riding in the car, or letting them play in the yard, the heat can take a toll on your pet’s health.

DO WHAT IS BEST FOR YOUR DOG
Dogs don't sweat like humans, causing their body temperature to rise quickly, which can lead to heat stroke or death. Senior dogs, puppies, and brachycephalic breeds (such as a pug) are especially vulnerable in hot weather. It's best to keep them at home in a shady spot with access to cool water.

RAPIDLY RISING TEMPERATURE CAN KILL!
Never leave pets alone in vehicles! On a 70-degree day, temperatures can reach 116 degrees in just 10 minutes, even with windows cracked. Air conditioning isn't a reliable solution, as it can fail. Instead, leave your pet at home in a cool, comfortable space with plenty of water.

WALKS AND HIKING
• Carry enough water for you and your dog.
• Do not take your pets on hot, exposed hikes during the heat of the day.
• Hot Sandy Trails can burn your dog’s paws. If it is too hot for you to walk barefoot, it is too hot for your dog.
• Hot Pavement - Dogs can burn their paws on the sidewalk in the summer. If the pavement is too hot for you to walk barefoot, it is too hot for your dog. To be safe, walk your dog early in the morning or later in the evening. Leave your pets at home when heading to festivals or farmer’s markets.
• Check pets for ticks, foxtails, and grass seeds following outdoor activity.

SIGNS OF PET HEATSTROKE
• Exaggerated panting (or the sudden stopping of panting).
• Rapid or erratic pulse.
• Salivation, anxious or staring expression.
• Weakness and muscle tremors or lack of coordination.
• Convulsions or vomiting, and collapse.
If you notice these signs, here are some steps that may help your pet:
• Move your pet to a cool, shady place.
• Wet the animal with cool water, such as laying them in a stream or a tub.
• Do not apply ice as this will constrict blood flow and discourage cooling.
• Fan your pet to promote evaporation. This cools the blood, helping to reduce the animal’s core temperature.
• Allow your pet to drink some cool water.
• Take your pet to a veterinarian as soon as possible for further treatment.

06/02/2025

This is a thorough and highly beneficial read that can make a real difference in safeguarding your pets.

WARNING – FOXTAIL SEASON IS HERE!!!

What are Foxtails?
Foxtails contain razor-sharp seeds that can embed themselves into your dog’s body. They can enter your dog’s mouth, nose, eyes, ears, paws, ge****ls, and fur.

Where do foxtails grow in the U.S.?
You can find foxtails in grasslands, parks, and meadows throughout the U.S.

What kind of grass produces foxtails?
Foxtails are part of the Poaceae grass family. There are three major types of foxtail plants. They are Giant foxtail, Green foxtail, and Yellow foxtail.

FOXTAILS AND YOUR DOGS – RISKS AND SYMPTOMS
Foxtails can dig through your dog’s skin or be inhaled through its nose or mouth. The spiked seeds then travel through your dog's body and can move to its brain, lungs, and other organs. If your dog shows signs of distress, such as limping or trouble breathing, or if you notice any of the following symptoms, check for foxtails or see your veterinarian:

• PAWS: Foxtail seeds fall to the ground, and your dog can easily step on them.
Once that happens, the seeds can embed themselves between your dog’s toes.
Check for foxtails if you notice swelling or limping or if your dog is constantly
licking their feet.

• EARS: If you notice your dog shaking his head, tilting it to the side, or scratching
nonstop at their ear, it could be a sign of an embedded foxtail. The seed can
move deep inside your dog’s ear canal making it impossible to detect without
your vet's help.

• EYES: Look for redness, discharge, swelling, and your dog squinting and pawing
the area. It may mean that a seed has lodged itself inside your dog’s eye.

• NOSE: If you see any discharge from your dog’s nose, or if your dog is intensely
and frequently sneezing, a foxtail may be lodged in your dog’s nasal passage.

• GE****LS: Foxtails can find their way inside your dog’s ge****ls, too. If your dog
is persistently licking the area, it could be a result of foxtails.

• SKIN: If you notice any wounds or abscesses on your dog’s skin, it could be from
a foxtail seed.

CATS CAN GET FOXTAILS TOO!
• If you have an outdoor cat, check them when they come inside. Foxtails aren’t
usually found in a cat’s nasal cavity because they're too small. However, cats can
step on foxtails, which can be found on other parts of your cat’s body.

TIPS FOR PREVENTING FOXTAIL PROBLEMS
Any dog can get foxtails in the ears, nose, eyes, or mouth. But dogs with long ears and curly hair can be especially prone to foxtail problems. Be sure to:

• Avoid walking your pet in areas where you know foxtails grow; keep your dog
out of overgrown, grassy areas.

• If you find yourself unexpectedly around foxtail plants, keep your dog on a leash
away from the foxtails.

• Just like with ticks, after a walk, check your dog’s entire body to make sure you
don’t find any foxtail seeds. This includes the usual places such as your dog’s
legs, paws, pads of their paws, ears, eyes, nose, mouth, gums, and ge****ls. If you
notice any foxtails, gently pull them out with a pair of tweezers.

• Check your yard for foxtail plants and completely remove them, roots and all.

• Keep your dog’s coat short during the summer and fall, especially on its legs and
feet, because foxtails can get caught in your dog’s fur.

HOW TO REMOVE FOXTAILS FROM YOUR DOG
If you notice a foxtail seed on your dog, remove it using tweezers in the same manner as removing a tick, BEFORE it burrows in. If you don’t know how to do this or if you suspect the foxtail is already embedded inside your dog’s body, take them to the veterinarian asap.

IDENTIFYING FOXTAILS
Foxtails exist in several varieties, with three main types: Giant, Green, and Yellow foxtails. Sizes of these foxtail plants vary:

• Giant foxtails grow 2-4 feet tall and have the largest seed head, about 1.5-8
inches long, which tends to droop downward.
• Green foxtails grow 1-2 feet tall and may have a seed head as large as the giant
foxtail, but it stays upright.
• Yellow foxtails grow 1-3 feet tall and have the smallest seed head of these three
species, about 0.75-6 inches long, which stays upright.

Wishing you and your beloved pets a joyful and safe summer filled with unforgettable moments.

03/25/2024

This is great news!

🐾 Exciting News for Pet Lovers! 🎥 Our Video Library is Now Live! 🎉

We're thrilled to announce that our comprehensive video library is officially open to everyone! 📽️ Whether you're a new pet parent or a seasoned pro, our collection of educational videos is packed with valuable insights and tips to help you care for and love your furry companions like never before.

From grooming techniques to behavior training, nutritional advice to first aid tips, our videos cover a wide range of topics to address all your pet care needs. 🐶🐱 Whether you're looking to brush up on basic pet care or delve into more advanced topics, our video library has something for everyone.

Best of all, these videos are accessible anytime, anywhere, so you can learn at your own pace and convenience. 📲 So why wait? Dive into our video library today and embark on a journey to become the ultimate pet parent! 🚀

https://kanabvet.com/education/

🐾❤️

12/19/2023

Nothing can spoil holiday cheer like an emergency visit to a veterinary clinic. Keeping this toxic plants out of reach of your beloved pets can help prevent a holiday disaster.
"Image Courtesy of Chewy."