Dog Services

Dog Allergies / Dermatology

How do you know if my dog has allergies?

If your dog is experiencing persistent itching, scratching, hair loss, red bumps, broken skin, or crusts, these may be indicators of allergies. Additionally, red, dirty, painful, or itchy ears can also signal an allergic reaction.

What causes dogs to have allergies?

Allergies generally fall into three main categories. The first is parasitic allergies, with flea allergy being the most common. Some dogs are allergic to the saliva left behind by flea bites, triggering irritation and discomfort. The second category is food allergies, which typically stem from a reaction to proteins in food, though carbohydrates can also be a culprit. Lastly, environmental allergies encompass a wide range of triggers, including grasses, trees, pollen, mold, and even household dust mites.

Can you cure dog allergies?

Unfortunately, there is no cure for allergies. The best approach is symptom management, and there are many tools available to help. Finding the right solution for you and your pet often involves trial and error, as different methods work for different cases. Effective allergy management focuses on preventing itching and reducing the risk of secondary infections, ensuring your pet stays as comfortable as possible.

Are there any home remedies for dog allergies?

There are several steps you can take to help manage your dog's allergies at home. Regularly changing your furnace filter and vacuuming frequently can reduce allergens inside your home, while keeping windows closed helps limit exposure to outdoor irritants. After outdoor activities, wiping your dog down and giving them more frequent baths can help minimize allergy symptoms. Additionally, ensuring your dog stays up to date on veterinary-recommended flea and tick prevention is crucial—since flea allergies can significantly worsen other allergy symptoms, this is one area that’s relatively easy to control.

How do you know if your dog's allergies are serious enough to bring to the veterinarian?

If your dog is experiencing persistent itching, hair loss, red bumps, scabs, bleeding, or if the ears are red, painful, stinky, itchy, those are all signs that the allergies have gotten out of control and we need to work on getting that infection back under control.

Dog Arthritis

PRP Treatment

What is PRP?

Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy is an exciting new tool we’re using, especially for joint care. It involves drawing a blood sample from your pet, then processing it in a centrifuge to separate the platelet-rich portion. This concentrated plasma is then injected - usually into a joint - to help reduce pain and inflammation, and to support a healthier joint environment.

How is PRP done?

With PRP therapy, we typically start by drawing a blood sample from your pet and administering a light sedative. The sample is then processed to extract the platelet-rich plasma. Once ready, we clip and sterilize the areas around your pet’s joints, and then carefully inject the PRP into the target joints. It’s a straightforward procedure that can offer real relief.

What are the benefits of PRP?

PRP therapy is a fantastic option for managing arthritis in pets. It helps ease pain, slow joint degeneration, and improve overall comfort. One of its biggest advantages is safety - since we’re using your pet’s own cells, there’s no foreign drug to metabolize and virtually no risk of an adverse reaction.

What does PRP treat?

PRP is highly effective in treating arthritis and degenerative joint disease. Emerging research also points to its potential in healing wounds, fractures, and even corneal ulcers. So stay tuned - this therapy may soon have even broader applications in veterinary care.

What are the risks of PRP?

The risks associated with PRP therapy are minimal. While there’s a slight chance of infection simply due to injecting into the joint, the treatment itself uses your pet’s own cells. Platelets are naturally effective at reducing inflammation and fighting infection, so PRP is generally very safe and well-tolerated.

How long does PRP last?

PRP treatment typically provides relief for six to nine months, so you may need to plan on repeating the procedure within that timeframe to maintain its benefits.

Fear, Anxiety and Stress with Vet visits

Fear, Anxiety and Stress - Part 1

Welcome to part one of our series on fear, anxiety, and stress in veterinary visits. Today, we are is focusing on identifying fear and anxiety for veterinary visits.

You might recognize the more obvious signs of fear in pets—like crouching, a tucked tail, or a generally fearful posture. But there are also subtle cues that can be easy to miss: things like yawning, lip licking, looking away, or showing the whites of their eyes (often called “whale eye,” where the eye looks like a crescent moon). These are all important indicators of stress.

Some pets may freeze or move slowly, almost as if they’re exhausted, while others might go the opposite direction—acting hyper, overly energetic, or even a little wild. All of these behaviors fall somewhere on the spectrum of fear, anxiety, and stress.

Fear, Anxiety and Stress - Part 2

Welcome to part two of our series on fear, anxiety, and stress in veterinary visits. Today, we are focusing on preventing fear and anxiety for veterinary visits.

Choice (fear-free handling options)

A lot of times, that looks like minimal or no restraint, or just watching their body language for signs of stress and slowing things down.

Food (bring a favorite snack)

Anytime we can get them to eat, that's a good thing; helps them like us more. And also, if they stop eating and they were, that's a sign that their stress levels gone up and we need to change what we're doing.

Play (bring a favorite toy)

They often really love to play with a toy. It's really hard to be stressed or anxious if you're playing with your favorite toy.

Happy Visits!

We love having our patients come in just for a visit, to come say, "Hi!" and get some treats and some attention, and go home without having anything scary happen. And that helps build the relationship over time.

PVPs (pre-visit pharmaceuticals)

And then the last option is that we use actually frequently, is PVPs or pre-visit pharmaceuticals or anxiety meds taken at home before they come in to visit us.

Fear, Anxiety and Stress - Part 3

Welcome to part three of our series on fear, anxiety, and stress in veterinary visits. Today, we’re focusing on PVPs, or pre-visit pharmaceuticals.

These are oral medications that pets can take about two to three hours before their appointment to help reduce stress and anxiety. And I want to reassure you—this is completely normal. Vet visits can be overwhelming: pets are out of their familiar environment, surrounded by new smells, sounds, and people, and sometimes being poked with sharp things. It’s no surprise they might feel anxious.

That’s where PVPs come in. They help take the edge off, making the experience more manageable for your pet—and more positive in the long run.

Here’s what to expect: we’ll typically prescribe one or two oral medications that you can pick up from our clinic. You’ll give them at home a couple of hours before the visit. Your pet might be a little drowsy, and that’s okay—the goal is to reduce the stress response and help them feel more at ease.

Over time, with consistent positive experiences, we may not even need these medications. The hope is to build trust with your pet so they learn that coming to see us isn’t scary—it’s safe, and maybe even enjoyable.

Thunderstorm Phobia

How can I tell if my dog is afraid of thunderstorms?

Many dogs can sense an approaching storm, and their anxiety may manifest through pacing, panting, clinginess, or restlessness. Some may shake, tremble, hide, or lose interest in food—common signs of fear triggered by loud noises. Thunderstorms and fireworks often cause similar distress, as the booming sounds can be overwhelming for some dogs.

How can I help my dog if they're afraid of thunderstorms?

The first step in helping your dog cope with anxiety is to provide a safe space, such as a bathroom or an interior room that offers insulation from outside noise. Playing calming music, like Through a Dog’s Ear, which is specifically designed to soothe dogs, can be beneficial. Additionally, conditioning them to associate relaxation with a ThunderShirt is key—start by having them wear it during peaceful moments, and once they’re comfortable, use it during thunderstorms to help them stay calm.

What can I do to prevent thunderstorm phobia in my dog?

Thunderstorm phobia isn’t always preventable, as genetics and inherited traits play a role. However, desensitization can help. Using sound apps that simulate thunderstorms at a low volume while pairing the experience with treats and positive reinforcement can gradually acclimate your dog to the noise. Over time, increasing the volume in small increments can help them develop a more relaxed and positive association with storm sounds.

When should I talk to my vet about my dog's thunderstorm phobia?

If your dog regularly experiences anxiety during thunderstorms, we're here to help. We don’t want your dog to suffer through the stress—or for you to struggle with their distress. There are effective medications and training techniques available that can make these situations easier, so don’t hesitate to reach out for support.

Dog Dentistry

How many teeth do dogs have?

Adult dogs typically have 42 teeth, though some may have variations in tooth count due to genetic anomalies. As puppies, they begin with 28 baby teeth, which they gradually lose. By six months of age, all their adult teeth have emerged, replacing the temporary set.

What kind of dental diseases do dogs tend to get?

The most common dental issue in dogs is a broken tooth, often caused by chewing. When a tooth fractures, the exposed pulp can lead to an abscess, causing pain and potential infection. Periodontal disease is another frequent concern, as dogs don't brush their teeth regularly like humans do. This allows bacteria to accumulate in the periodontal space—the area between the tooth and the surrounding bone—leading to infection, bone loss, tooth mobility, and discomfort. Additionally, tumors or growths can develop in the mouth. While some are benign and linked to periodontal disease and inflammation, others can be cancerous and require further evaluation

How do I keep my dog's teeth healthy?

The best way to maintain your dog's dental health is daily tooth brushing. Plaque naturally builds up throughout the day, and within 24 hours, it hardens into calculus. By brushing your dog's teeth every day, you disrupt this cycle, preventing plaque from turning into stubborn tartar and reducing the risk of dental issues.

How can I tell if my dog has dental disease?

One of the earliest signs of dental issues in dogs is bad breath—while "doggy breath" is often joked about, persistent odor is not normal. Other warning signs include red or swollen gums, fractured teeth, and unusual growths. In advanced stages, more serious symptoms like difficulty chewing or excessive drooling may appear, signaling a need for attention.

What are the benefits and risks of having my dog's teeth cleaned?

While dental cleanings do require anesthesia, the risks are minimal compared to the benefits, and we'd be happy to discuss any concerns you may have. To ensure safety, we closely monitor your pet using a multi-parameter system, with a dedicated technician overseeing their well-being. They remain comfortable on a heated water bed, and because dental procedures don’t require deep anesthesia, they only need to be lightly sedated to stay still—nothing we do is overly painful.

The real advantage of professional cleanings is the ability to perform X-rays and a thorough oral exam, allowing us to detect hidden issues beneath the gum line. Many abscesses and infections appear completely normal on the surface, making routine dental care essential for identifying and addressing problems your pet can’t communicate. Regular dentistry helps catch these concerns early, preventing unnecessary pain and ensuring their long-term health.

After Dental Surgery Care for Dogs

How to care for your dog after dental surgery?

When your pet comes home after dental surgery, expect them to be a bit groggy from the anesthesia. It's best to feed them about half of their usual dinner, and the food should be softened to avoid irritating their healing mouth. You can do this by adding warm water to their kibble or temporarily switching to canned food. This makes eating more comfortable and helps protect the sutures.

It's also normal if they have a mild cough - this can be from the breathing tube used during anesthesia. Some pets may drool a little, sometimes with a bit of blood, as their mouth heals. They might also be tender while eating or chewing, which is completely expected.

To aid their recovery, we recommend removing any bones or chew toys from their environment. You don’t want them chewing too soon and accidentally disturbing those sutures. Try to keep those items tucked away for at least two weeks to ensure proper healing.

What should I watch after my dog's surgery?

Keep an eye out for any unusual signs following your pet’s dental procedure. Their breath should smell fresh after a cleaning - if there’s a foul odor, that could indicate a problem. Ongoing discomfort while eating is also something to watch for, as it may suggest lingering pain.

If your pet experiences vomiting, diarrhea, or a lack of appetite, these could be reactions to their pain medication. Please reach out to us immediately if any of these symptoms appear.

Also, while a mild cough can be normal right after surgery (due to the breathing tube), it should resolve within a couple of days. If the cough persists beyond two or three days, let us know.

What complications can happen after dental surgery in dogs?

There are a few uncommon but important complications to be aware of following dental surgery. In some cases, the surgical site may reopen - usually from chewing on something too soon. We try to prevent this by recommending rest and soft foods during recovery.

Occasionally, with severe disease in the upper canines, there may already be a connection between the mouth and the sinuses. This can lead to the development of an oronasal fistula - a small tract that creates an open passage between the two. While this isn't common, it’s something we monitor closely in advanced dental cases.

Another potential outcome is when the lower canines are removed. These teeth help keep the tongue in place, so your dog’s tongue may hang out a bit afterward. There’s also a small chance of temporary facial numbness or difficulty moving the tongue due to nerve involvement, but those complications are rare.

How long does it take for a dog to recover from a tooth surgery?

Recovery from dental surgery typically takes about two weeks, and we like to schedule a recheck around that time to ensure everything is healing as it should. During this period, it's important to continue softening your pet’s food to protect those delicate gums and give them the best chance to heal comfortably.

By the time the two-week mark arrives, most pets are back to their normal selves - often even better. Many of our clients tell us during the recheck that their pets are acting more comfortable and energetic than they have in ages. That kind of transformation is exactly why we're so passionate about advocating for high-quality dental care for our furry companions.

Will my pet need pain medication?

Yes, your pet will need pain medication following dental surgery, and there are several options available. We’ll work with you to find the form that best suits both you and your pet - whether that’s a pill, liquid, or something else. Our goal is to make the process as smooth and stress-free as possible.

Above all, we’re focused on your pet’s comfort. Dental procedures shouldn’t be painful experiences - they’re intended to improve your pet’s health and quality of life. We’re here to ensure recovery is as gentle and positive as possible.

Will my pet be able to eat with fewer teeth?

It’s truly remarkable how well pets adapt, even with missing teeth—or no teeth at all. Most pets can continue eating comfortably, thanks to how well commercial pet foods are designed. These diets are made to be digestible whether they’re chewed or simply swallowed.

If you're feeding dry kibble, the main consideration is size—make sure the pieces are small enough to be easily swallowed without chewing. Many pets actually eat better after dental surgery, once painful or infected teeth have been removed.

If you have any questions or need additional guidance, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us at Covington Veterinary Hospital.

Brushing Teeth

Do I need to brush my pet's teeth?

Brushing your pet's teeth is essential for their overall health. It's the most effective way to prevent periodontal disease - a bacterial infection that affects the structures supporting the teeth. When these areas become infected, it can lead to loose, painful teeth and serious oral discomfort. By maintaining good dental hygiene, you’re helping ensure your pet stays happy, healthy, and pain-free.

How often do I need to brush my pet's teeth?

Brushing daily is key - even if it’s not the answer everyone wants to hear. Plaque starts forming constantly, and within just 24 hours, it can harden into tough, stubborn calculus. By brushing every day, you’re clearing away plaque before it has a chance to settle and harden, helping to maintain a cleaner, healthier mouth.

What supplies do I need to brush my pet's teeth?

To get started with brushing your pet’s teeth, you’ll need a few key supplies. First and foremost: a toothbrush that fits your pet’s mouth. For a dog the size of a Labrador, a medium-sized brush works well. It’s best to choose something inexpensive since pets often chew on the bristles, meaning you’ll likely need to replace it fairly often.

Many pet owners also prefer using a finger brush, or even just a soft washcloth, especially if that feels more comfortable for them and their pet.

You’ll also need a pet-specific toothpaste - never use human toothpaste, as it contains fluoride and other ingredients not meant to be swallowed. Pets will almost certainly try to swallow the toothpaste, so it’s important to use one that’s safe and appealing to them. For example, this CET brand poultry-flavored option tends to be a hit. The key is finding a flavor your pet enjoys to make brushing a more pleasant experience for both of you

How do I brush my pet's teeth?

Start by putting a bit of pet-safe toothpaste on the toothbrush and simply let your pet lick it off. This step helps create a positive association - they’ll start to enjoy the taste and get familiar with the toothbrush. Try doing this daily for a week or two, until your pet begins to look forward to “brush time” and may even remind you it’s time for their dental treat!

Once your pet is comfortable and excited about the toothbrush, begin by gently brushing the front incisors. Gradually, as they become more relaxed, you can slowly work your way further back along the teeth.

Take it at your pet’s pace - don’t force the process. If they show signs of discomfort, pause and slow things down to match their comfort level. And when you do start brushing more thoroughly, focus most of your effort on the cheek-facing sides of the teeth, since that’s where plaque and tartar build up the most - not the tongue side.

What are the signs of dental problems in my pet?

Bad breath and red gums are clear warning signs of dental trouble. Contrary to popular belief, your dog's breath shouldn’t be stinky - so if it is, it’s worth taking a closer look. Other red flags include swollen or bleeding gums, unusual growths or masses around the gum line, drooling, and difficulty chewing.

You might also notice subtle signs, like your pet chewing only on one side of their mouth or favoring one side when eating kibble. These behaviors can indicate mouth pain that needs attention.

Is a professional dental cleaning necessary?

Daily brushing is incredibly helpful, but it doesn’t always reach below the gum line where tartar can build up. That’s where professional dental cleanings at your veterinarian’s office come in. These cleanings include full-mouth X-rays, careful probing of the gum pockets, and thorough scaling and polishing - especially beneath the gum line - to remove tartar and help slow the progression of periodontal disease.

So even if you brush your dog’s teeth every day, it’s still a good idea to schedule regular professional cleanings under anesthesia for a truly deep clean and better long-term dental health.

What if I can't brush my pet's teeth?

Some pets simply won’t tolerate toothbrushing - and that’s perfectly okay. In those cases, there are approved alternatives that can still support oral health. For example, products like Greenies are backed by the Veterinary Oral Health Council (VOHC) and have been shown to help reduce tartar and bad breath.

I recommend checking the VOHC website for a full list of approved options. When shopping, look for the VOHC seal of approval on dental chews, treats, or other products - that’s your sign they’ve been tested for effectiveness. There are also water additives and other tools available to help manage plaque buildup.

That said, daily brushing remains the gold standard, especially for cleaning the canines and front incisors - areas that chews might not reach effectively. But any effort you can make toward your pet’s dental care is a step in the right direction!

If you have any further questions about how to brush your pet's teeth, feel free to contact us at Covington Veterinary Hospital.

Dog Spays and Neuters

Dog Spay

What is a spay surgery for dogs?

Spaying is a surgical procedure that involves the complete removal of the ovaries and uterus - essentially a total hysterectomy. After this procedure, your dog will no longer go into heat or be able to become pregnant.

Why should you spay your dog?

There are many important reasons to spay your dog. One of the biggest is pet overpopulation. Just take a look at Animal Care & Control and Human Fort Wayne (HOPE) - you’ll see plenty of dogs and puppies in need of homes. Spaying helps ensure we’re not adding to that issue.

It’s also better for your dog’s health. Spaying significantly reduces the risk of mammary cancer, completely eliminates the risk of ovarian cancer, and prevents pyometra—a serious and potentially life-threatening infection of the uterus that often requires emergency surgery.

What are the risks of spaying your dog?

The risks associated with spaying your dog are generally minimal. One potential concern is a mild risk of infection at the incision site, but this is relatively rare and typically easy to manage.

The most common issue after spaying is weight gain. Removing the ovaries reduces estrogen levels, which slows metabolism - so dogs may gain weight more easily. Keeping an eye on their diet and activity level can help manage this.

A less common side effect is urinary incontinence, which can occur in a small percentage of female dogs as lower estrogen levels affect urethral sphincter tone. This typically happens during sleep and is usually well controlled with medication.

What age should you spay a dog?

I typically recommend spaying at around six months of age. For most family pets, this timing works well—they’ve completed their rapid growth phase, and their baby teeth should have fallen out. If any baby teeth remain, we can remove them during the spay to help prevent future dental issues like periodontal disease.

That said, the recommendation can vary for large breed dogs. In some cases, waiting until they’re closer to two years old might be worth considering. However, delaying the procedure means the uterus will be larger and more vascular, which makes surgery slightly more complex and potentially more expensive. You’ll also need to manage your dog through several heat cycles, which can be inconvenient.

Ultimately, it’s a personal decision based on your dog’s size, lifestyle, and your comfort level—and I’m here to help talk through the options with you.

What does the spay surgery include?

Before a spay surgery, we recommend pre-surgical blood work to check your dog’s blood cell counts and organ function—this helps ensure she’s a safe candidate for anesthesia and surgery.

During the procedure, we place an IV catheter to provide fluids and medications. Pain management is a top priority: your dog will receive anti-inflammatory injections, opioid pain relief, local nerve blocks (like lidocaine), and cold laser therapy to reduce discomfort and promote healing. She’ll also be kept warm on a heated water blanket throughout the surgery.

An experienced technician will monitor her anesthesia closely using multiple parameters, while the veterinarian performs the procedure in a fully sterile environment - wearing a gown and gloves, using a sterile surgical pack, and prepping your dog’s abdomen carefully.

The surgery itself involves removing both the ovaries and the uterus. Afterward, we close the incision with sutures and monitor her recovery closely. We also apply cold laser therapy to the incision to further reduce pain and support faster healing. Most dogs go home that same afternoon with effective pain medication to keep them comfortable.

What is the spay surgery recovery like?

Recovery after a spay surgery is an important phase, and a little preparation goes a long way. The first thing to focus on is protecting the incision site from licking - since bacteria from the mouth can easily lead to infection. Using an e-collar, inflatable collar, or a surgical recovery suit are all great options to prevent licking and help the area stay clean.

For the first 7 to 10 days, your pup will need to take it easy. That means no running, rough play, or jumping on and off furniture. Leash walks for potty breaks are fine, but overall we want to prioritize rest so the incision heals properly.

Keeping a young, energetic dog calm isn’t always easy, so enrichment activities can be a big help. Try giving her a frozen Kong, a lick mat, or a snuffle mat to engage her mind without straining her body. Slow, scent-driven 'sniff walks' can also help satisfy her curiosity while keeping her activity level low.

Dog Neuter

What is a neuter surgery for dogs?

Neutering is a surgical procedure that involves removing a male dog's testicles, which prevents him from being able to reproduce.

Why should you neuter your dog?

Neutering your dog offers several important benefits. One of the most significant is helping to control the pet population. With so many dogs already in need of homes, having your dog neutered is a responsible choice that helps reduce overpopulation.

There are also clear health advantages. Neutering eliminates the risk of testicular cancer and lowers the likelihood of prostate disease later in life.

In addition, many owners notice behavioral improvements. Neutered dogs often display less aggression, mark their territory less frequently, and generally make calmer, more manageable companions for families.

What are the risks of neutering your dog?

The most common risk associated with neutering is weight gain. Once the testicles are removed, testosterone levels drop, which can slow your dog’s metabolism. Fortunately, this is typically easy to manage with appropriate portion control and a healthy diet after surgery.

Another important consideration is preventing your dog from licking the incision site. Licking can introduce bacteria from the mouth and lead to infection, so using an e-collar, recovery suit, or inflatable collar during healing is key.

What age should you neuter your dog?

In most cases, I recommend neutering your dog by six months of age. This timing helps ensure they receive the full range of health benefits and can also reduce unwanted behaviors, such as urine marking, that often begin around this age.

However, for large and giant breeds, it may be worth considering a later neuter—around 18 to 24 months—depending on individual growth and health factors. This decision should be made in consultation with your veterinarian, who can help determine the best timing for your specific dog.

What does the neuter surgery include?

During a neuter surgery, we take multiple steps to ensure your dog’s safety and comfort. An IV catheter is placed to deliver fluids and medications, and your dog is placed under anesthesia while a dedicated technician monitors them closely throughout the procedure. They’ll also rest on a heated water blanket to maintain body temperature.

Comprehensive pain management is provided, including multiple types of medication to keep your dog as comfortable as possible. The surgery is performed under sterile conditions—the veterinarian wears a sterile gown, gloves, cap, and mask, and uses sterilized instruments and a draped surgical field.

The procedure involves removing the testicles, and once completed, we apply cold laser therapy to the surgical site to help minimize discomfort and speed healing. Most dogs are ready to go home later that same afternoon with pain medication to keep them comfortable during recovery.

What is the neuter surgery recovery like?

Recovery after a neuter surgery requires a bit of preparation, with the main priority being to prevent your dog from licking the incision site. Licking can introduce bacteria and lead to infection, so tools like an e-collar, inflatable collar, or surgical recovery suit can be very helpful in keeping the area protected.

It's also important to keep your dog calm and quiet for 7 to 10 days to allow the surgical site to heal properly. That means leash walks only for bathroom breaks, no roughhousing or jumping on and off furniture, and as much rest as possible.

To help manage their energy during this downtime, enrichment activities can go a long way. Try frozen Kongs, lick mats, snuffle mats, or long, slow sniff walks. These keep their mind stimulated without putting stress on their body during recovery.

Dog Services

Puppy Care

Dog Allergies / Dermatology