Posts in Category: You & Your Pet

Our precious pooches enrich our lives in so many ways, from smothering us with slobbery kisses to sharing cuddles with us on the couch. Being responsible dog owners is the best way to show them your love back.

September is Responsible Dog Ownership Month, and our team at BEEVET Animal Hospital is here with some great ways to practice responsible dog ownership and celebrate your favorite canine companion all year long. 

No matter how much they love their home, your beloved animals may head out on a solo expedition through your neighborhood. Lost pets are so common that countless communities run Facebook groups that help pet parents reunite with their furry wanderers. And unfortunately, people do steal dogs, cats, and exotic animals. Pet microchips can reunite you with a lost or stolen pet.  

With their adorable fluff and affectionate nature, rabbits make wonderful pets. They are quiet, clean animals that adore their owners and can even be trained to do tricks. However, rabbits require more attention and care than people typically expect, as much as a dog in many ways. With a life expectancy of 7-10 years, pet rabbits are a long-term commitment. Keep reading to find out if a rabbit is the right pet for you and your family.

At BEEVET Animal Hospital, we love animals of all species. Our team is excited when our feathered clients come to see us for veterinary visits, and we love interacting with their human families as well. Although we know there are plenty of different pet bird species sharing homes with human families in Austin, we have found that these are the most common:

1. Parakeets 

The parakeet, or the budgerigar, is a fan favorite, especially when it comes to families with children. Since they are smaller than some other pet bird species, they do not require as much space. They do need the same care, however, which means regular visits to the bird veterinarian. Parakeets are known for their distinctive whistle, and some can even learn a handful of words and phrases.

2. Cockatiel

The cockatiel is another pet bird that likes to participate in conversations. Like the parakeet, the cockatiel can learn words, but they usually prefer to mimic sounds like the doorbell. Cockatiels come in an array of beautiful colors and can live for up to 20 years.

3. Finch

The finch is a tiny bird companion who prefers the company of birds to the constant attention of humans. That makes these tiny avians perfect for pet owners who love passively watching their feathered friends without having to spend a lot of time entertaining them. Unlike many of the other birds on this list, finches have softbills and only measure about 5 inches (or less). With regular wellness visits, they can live for about 10 years.

4. Lovebirds

If you love parrots but don’t have a lot of space, you might want to bring a lovebird into your home. These tiny parrots are only 5-6 inches, which makes them the perfect companion for apartment or condo dwellers. With the proper care, lovebirds can live for up to 20 years.

5. Dove

These sweet, calm birds are great for homes with older children or just adults who will not get too excited near the cage. Although they do well on their own, doves do need companionship, so be sure to give them plenty of time outside the cage. Placing mirrors nearby can also help them feel like they’re socializing. 

No matter what kind of bird you have, BEEVET Animal Hospital is here to offer them the veterinary care they need throughout their lives. We also see dogs, cats, and exotic pets. To learn more about our services or to schedule an appointment, call (512) 263-9292.

Various birds and other exotics—excluding cats, dogs, farm or wild animals—make terrific household pets. Each has unique care needs, so before bringing an avian or exotic home, you want to be sure they’re a good fit for your space and lifestyle. BEEVET Animal Hospital has put together this guide to help you determine if an avian or exotic pet is the right pet for your household. 

When it comes to a first pet for their children, many parents turn to options smaller than a cat or dog. Not all avian and exotic pets make good choices for kids, though. BEEVET Animal Hospital is here to help sort out how to make a smart choice for your family. 

Imagine an animal that knows exactly who they are and what they’re capable of. They are comfortable in their own fur, don’t make unreasonable demands on your time or attention, and appear out of nowhere to give you lots of love. Sounds like a tall order? Not for senior cats! They are among the most loving and lovable pets around, and they all deserve homes. If you’ve wondered if now was the time to adopt a senior cat, we’ve got some facts for the tipping point.

Those cute faces mean unique challenges for this breed. At BEEVET Animal Hospital, we’ve got your go-to list of tips on how to make this summer a happy one for you and your furry friend by keeping common bulldog problems at bay!

Does your cat always run and hide when strangers come calling? Many cats do if they’re not well socialized. But does that mean that your cat suffers from anxiety? Our expert veterinarians have some answers for you.

What Are the Causes of Cat Anxiety?

If your cat is a rescue animal, it’s likely that you don’t know what he or she experienced before coming to live with you. If they were well treated, your new pet probably wouldn’t exhibit symptoms of anxiety. Poor treatment is only one possible cause of anxiety in cats, however. The following could also be contributing to your cat’s anxiety:

Dog owners are used to some pretty crazy noises coming from their pets. Snorts, sneezes, grunts, and gurgles can be the norm. When your pet makes a new sound outside of their regular repertoire, though, it can be concerning.

BEEVET Animal Hospital is no stranger to calls from clients worried about the noises their pet is making. One of the most common suspicious sounds is the reverse sneeze in dogs. This scary but usually harmless noise is one every pet owner should know.