Welcome to the MythBusters: Vet Clinic Edition! We’re on a mission to sniff out the truth, claw through the confusion, and pounce on pet myths like a cat on a laser pointer. Let’s bust some of the most common (and hilarious) myths we hear at the clinic!
1. Myth #1: “A warm nose means my dog is sick!”
Status: BUSTED
Unless your dog is writing itself a prescription for chicken soup, there’s no need to worry about nose temperature. A dog’s nose can be wet, dry, warm, or cool at various times throughout the day. A warm nose doesn’t mean your pup is plotting to call in sick — but if there are other signs (lethargy, not eating, or acting “off”), that’s when to give us a call!
2. Myth #2: “Cats always land on their feet.”
Status: SEMI-BUSTED
While cats are excellent acrobats with righting reflexes that would make Olympic gymnasts jealous, they are not immune to injury. High falls, slippery surfaces, or failed parkour attempts can lead to real problems. Let’s keep the parkour on YouTube and the windows screened.
3. Myth #3: “Bones are good for dogs — it’s natural!”
Status: BUSTED (and sometimes splintered)
We know — dogs love them. But cooked bones can splinter and cause blockages, broken teeth, or internal injuries. It’s natural… like hurricanes and skunk sprays. Stick to vet-approved chews unless you enjoy surprise 2 a.m. emergency vet visits.
4. Myth #4: “Pets eat grass when they’re sick.”
Status: MOSTLY BUSTED
Sometimes they’re bored. Sometimes they just like the taste. Sometimes they’re making weird salad choices. While it’s true that some pets eat grass when they have an upset stomach, it’s not a sure-fire sign of illness. If your lawn is starting to look suspiciously patchy, maybe we should chat.
5. Myth #5: “My dog’s wagging tail means they’re happy!”
Status: MISUNDERSTOOD
Tail wagging = emotion. But what kind? Excitement? Fear? Annoyance at the neighbor’s new poodle? A wagging tail doesn’t always mean happy. It’s like texting in ALL CAPS — could be enthusiasm… could be rage. Look at the whole-body language picture before going in for belly rubs.
6. Myth #6: “My pet’s breath is supposed to smell like that.”
Status: DEEPLY BUSTED
If your dog’s breath could knock over a houseplant, it’s not “normal” — it’s dental disease. Bad breath isn’t just unpleasant; it can be a sign of tartar buildup, infection, or even organ issues. Brushing, dental chews, and vet cleanings aren’t just fancy spa treatments — they’re lifesavers. (And nose-savers.)
7. Myth #7: “A chubby pet is a happy pet.”
Status: BUSTED BY THE SCALE
Fluffy is cute. Overweight is… not ideal. While those extra rolls may be squishable, pet obesity can lead to diabetes, joint pain, and decreased lifespan. We can help you create a weight-loss plan that doesn’t involve CrossFit for dogs (but does maybe involve fewer snacks “falling” off the counter).
8. Myth #8: “Indoor pets don’t need vaccinations.”
Status: VACCINE-BUSTED
Just because your cat thinks the outside world is a rumor doesn’t mean they’re immune to disease. Viruses can hitchhike in on shoes, clothes, or other pets. Better safe than sorry — and better vaccinated than… vet bills.
9. Myth #9: “If they’re wagging, they don’t need training!”
Status: TOTALLY BUSTED (AND POSSIBLY JUMPING ON YOU)
Sure, your dog is friendly. But “friendly” can still knock over Grandma when combined with 70 pounds of enthusiasm and zero impulse control. Training isn’t just for “bad dogs” — it’s for all dogs (and their humans). It makes life smoother, walks nicer, and holidays with relatives… tolerable.
10. Final Myth: “My pet doesn’t need a vet unless they’re sick.”
Status: UTTERLY, FLAT-OUT, BUSTED
Would you only go to the dentist when you needed a root canal? (Please say no.) Preventive care is key to catching issues early, keeping vaccines up to date, and ensuring your pet lives their best, fluffiest life.
In Conclusion:
We love our job — even when we’re elbow-deep in “mystery furball situations.” But the best way to keep tails wagging and whiskers twitching is by busting myths before they turn into emergencies.
Got a weird pet myth you’ve heard? Ask us! We love science, silliness, and saving the day — one busted myth at a time.
Stay curious (and keep those tails wagging),
– Your Tanglefoot Veterinary Team