The Roanoker - March/April 2021 - 60

ASK
THE PET
EXPERTS
S P O N SO R E D CONTENT

Q: How can I maximize playtime Q: What are Paw Plans and
why are they important?
with a new kitten?
A: Playing allows cats to satisfy innate hunting
instincts. Playtime is more fun for your kitten when
you control the toy. Your frisky pet will have to focus
to track where her 'prey' will go next. This offers
her beneficial mental stimulation. It's also a great
confidence booster! Remember that kittens tend to
gravitate towards things that aren't safe, so keep a
close eye out. Don't let her play with anything that
could be dangerous, such as small or sharp objects,
plastic wraps, and anything with dangling threads.
Dr. Michelle Spangler
Old Dominion Veterinary Clinic
540-966-1992
Olddominionveterinaryclinic.com

Q: What are you doing to
help me and my pet feel
safe?
A: In addition to heightened cleaning
protocols and wearing masks, Cave
Spring Vet offers curbside and outdoor
appointments when possible. We can
also bring the mobile clinic to you. We
know not all pets love coming to see
us and we don't want to add to their
stress any more than we have to. With
these changes, some pets may need a
little more help. Ask us about " happy
medications, " which are safe, effective,
and can help calm a worried pet.
Steve Karras, DVM
Cave Spring Veterinary Clinic
540-989-8582
Cavespringvet.com

A: Vinton Vet offers 12 different
Wellness Packages to provide wellness
care services, diagnostics and surgical
services to any patient whether a puppy/
kitten, adult or senior! We offer unlimited
examinations with gold standard
diagnostics, even dental packages, juvenile
and adult spay and neuter! These services
are offered at a substantial discount when
enrolled in our Paw Plans.
Dr. Courtney Wiegard
Vinton Veterinary Hospital
540-627-5118
Vintonvet.com

Q: Why is socializing my dog recommended?

A: Socialization is important for several reasons. It helps to alleviate separation anxiety and
boredom by providing a much needed outlet for pent-up energy. A dog that is not well socialized,
especially among other dogs, can grow up acquiring bad habits. (Think chewed up shoes and
digging in trash cans!) Lack of socialization and play can lead to anxiety and fear... fear of new
experiences, new places, new people, and even other dogs. Getting your new puppy (or adopted
older dog) experiencing as much as possible is extremely essential and beneficial. Bring your
canine best friend to City Dogs for a free first day of playcare and discover how our caring and
attentive staff can help.
Lynda R. Knezovich, Owner, City Dogs Boarding & Playcare
540-206-3299, Citydogsroanoke.com

Q: What is the best way to train
a dog?

A: Dogs are not mind readers! They do not know
what we want them to do, so it is our responsibility
to teach them. Learning should feel safe and
enjoyable, so our dogs like working with us. Positive
reinforcement is a science-based method of teaching which involves
reinforcing behaviors. When a dog demonstrates a desired behavior, we
reinforce that behavior with something that the dog views as good--a
treat, a toy, a belly rub, etc. Instead of simply punishing a behavior we do
not like, we teach our dog what we want him or her to do instead. This
way, learning is fun and helps us bond with our dogs. Training methods
that rely on inflicting pain or discomfort should not be used. Take the time
to teach your dog the proper, humane way. It works!
Hope Cogen, Owner
High Hopes Dog Training
540-343-3849
High-hopes.net
60 MARCH/APRIL 2021

TheRoanoker.com

http://www.olddominionveterinaryclinic.com/ http://www.Vintonvet.com http://www.Citydogsroanoke.com http://www.Cavespringvet.com http://www.High-hopes.net http://www.TheRoanoker.com

The Roanoker - March/April 2021

Table of Contents for the Digital Edition of The Roanoker - March/April 2021