Holiday Tips to Keep Your Pet Healthy

Holiday Tips

1. Keep all  holiday treats: chocolate, nuts, candy, baked goods, out of your pet’s reach
2. Put non breakable ornaments on the lower 2 feet of your tree. Kitties and puppies will think ornaments are toys.
3. No poinsettias, they are toxic. 
4. Even a small amount of leftovers can make your pet extremely ill.
5. Make sure your pet has an escape area from company in case they get over whelmed.
6. Give your pet their usual treats. Too many or new treats can cause severe intestinal upset.
7. Cats may drink from your tree stand so avoid treating the water.
8. No tinsel, cats and dogs love to eat it.
9. When salting your driveway or sidewalk use pet safe product.
10. Consider donating to our local shelters, many more pets are being abandoned then ever before.

Canine Vaccination Series: The facts about Infectious Canine Hepatitis

Infectious canine hepatitis (ICH), caused by canine adenovirus type 1 (CAV-1), is a worldwide disease of dogs. CAV-1 infects a wide range of tissues, including the liver (hence the name hepatitis), kidneys, spleen and lungs. Infected dogs typically develop a fever and abnormal bleeding, and experience loss of white blood cells, which are a key component of the immune system. Opacity of the eye("blue eye") occurs in some cases. Death, chronic hepatitis or severe illness may occur, and recovery may be gradual in nonfatal cases. CAV-1 is shed in urine and can survive outside the host for weeks or months.  


Your dog can contract CAV-1 virus through direct contact with 
infected saliva, urine, or feces either with your dog’s mouth or nose. Even a dog dish that has been licked clean can carry the virus. The tonsils and lymph nodes are the first body parts effected. The incubation period can last 4-9 days, after which the virus enters the bloodstream.


Your dog receives protection against infectious canine hepatitis when they receive their annual canine distemper combo vaccine.  Part of the combo include infectious canine hepatitis. This is given once a year and occurs with their physical. 

Canine Vaccination Series: The facts about Distemper

Canine distemper is a widespread virus that causes high mortality in dogs. Puppies and dogs usually become infected through airborne exposure to the virus contained in respiratory secretions of an infected dog or wild animal (raccoons, foxes and skunks).

Exposure is considered inevitable during a dog's lifetime, so canine distemper vaccination is almost always recommended. Puppies and young dogs without immunity are at greatest risk. Canine distemper virus infects various tissues in the dog's body, producing diarrhea, fever, nasal and ocular discharge, respiratory disease, appetite loss and neurologic signs such as muscular spasms and paralysis. The disease is easily transmitted and often fatal.

Your dog receives protection against canine distemper when they receive their annual canine distemper combo vaccine. This is given once a year and occurs with their physical.

Toxic Foods

HUMAN FOOD FOR PETS…. BAD IDEA. HERE’S WHY.

TOXIC HUMAN FOOD TO BEWARE OF….

ARTIFICIAL SWEETNERS (ESP. XYLITOL)

ONIONS

GARLIC

GRAPES AND RAISINS

CAFFEINE

CHOCOLATE

AVOCADOS

MACADAMIA NUTS

SEVERE ILLNESS CAUSING FOODS…

HAM AND GRAVY

MOLDY/SPOILED FOOD

STAGNANT WATER

DIET PILLS

IF YOUR PET GETS INTO ANY OF THESE ITEMS, DON’T HESITATE TO CALL US OR AN EMERGENCY CLINIC. EVERY MINUTE COUNTS.

FDA Issues Consumer Alert of Online Pharmacies

The FDA has issued a consumer alert of online veterinary pharmacies. The FDA regulators have documented unscrupulous practices regarding the sale of unapproved and counterfeit pet drugs, dispensing of medication without a prescription, and sale of expired medications, which includes the top two medications: anti-inflammatory and heartworm drugs. If you chose to use internet pharmacies, the FDA and Dr. Nicol recommend you check to see if they are accredited through the Association of Boards of Pharmacy’s Vet VIPPS (Veterinary Verified Internet Pharmacy Practice Site) program. We hope this helps you to keep your pet healthy and safe.

Learn more, here.

Quick Checklist for Traveling with Your Pet

1. Make sure your pet is comfortable with travel.
2. Make sure your pet has identification tags with up-to-date information.
3. If your pet does not have a microchip, have one implanted before traveling. Microchips secure your chances of getting your pet back if it ever becomes lost.
4. If you are taking your pet across state or international borders, a health certificate is required.
5. Make sure your pet's vaccinations are up-to-date.
6. Make sure your pet is allowed where you are staying.
7. Have a first aid kit on hand in case any injury occurs. This is especially important if you are going to be in a more remote location.
8. If  your pet does have any health issues make sure you have enough medication for the duration of your trip.
9. Bring a kennel with you in case you need a secure area for your pet to stay.
10. Bring items from home to ease your pet's behavior (bed, toys, etc.).

Click here to learn more about traveling with your pet.

10 Things to Think About Before Breeding

1. Is your pet parasite free? No fleas, ticks, ear mites, internal parasites and heartwormed tested negative.
2. How old is your pet? Breeding age is between 2 and 6 years old.
3. Are you prepared financially to care for all offspring from birth to death if you cannot find appropriate homes? 
4. Are you prepared for the behavior changes that may happen?
5. Is your pet a good representation of its breed? No confirmation defects, like height, hair color, etc.
6. Is your pet certified clear of breed specific genetic problems by a veterinarian? X-ray'd for hip dysplasia, thyroid negative, eyes clear, heart clear, tested for any bleeding disorders.
7. Is your pet current on all vaccinations?
8. Are you prepared financially to care for a pregnant animal? Pets cannot always conceive naturally and many times c-sections are needed. 
9. Do you have the space to provide a birthing area and nursery for the offspring to grow? We do not recommend birthing and raising offspring outside. There are too many risk factors. 
10. Do you have buyers lined up prior to birth?

What's so great about joint supplement?

Just like people, pets develop joint pain and stiffness as the age. The good news is they do not have to live the rest of their life in discomfort. One medication we recommend for joint support is Chondro-Flex (Dasuquin).

What causes joint pain and inflammation?
Cartilage provides a smooth, friction-free surface for opposing ends of joint bones. Cartilage, synovial fluid and underlying bones protect bones from each other and absorb shock as your pet moves, enabling flexible joints. Cartilage continually manufactures and maintains itself with its own specialized cells. Blood does not carry nutrients to cartilage; they enter from surrounding tissue and are carried by the synovial fluid. These nutrients are necessary for healthy cartilage production.

To view pictures of healthy joints and the process of deteriorating click here.

Age, injury, and risk factors such as obesity, size, activity and genetics may cause cartilage and tissue breakdown. When cartilage breaks down faster than it can reproduce itself, your pet may experience inflammation and great discomfort. Damaged tissue allows white blood cells to invade and release enzymes and free radicals, further deteriorating the joint. Enzymes also cause the synovial fluid to become watery and lose its lubricating capacity. The synovial fluid is less able to nourish the cartilage. This degeneration process spirals. Decreased activity and muscle atrophy result, making the problem worse.

What is Chondro-Flex (Dasuqin)?
Chondro-Flex (Dasuquin) Joint Care formulas were designed to provide maximum joint support for dogs, cats and horses with pain and joint stiffness associated with normal daily exercise and activities. They can effectively support connective tissue maintenance including joints, synovial fluid, tendons, ligaments and cartilage.

How do I know if my pet needs Chondro-Flex (Dasuqin)?
Optimal functioning of the joints (hip, shoulder, elbow, hock and stifle) dramatically affects your pet's mobility and activity level. Recent studies show joint pains and stiffness affects more than eight million adult pets in the United States which is often the first sign that owners mistake as part of the natural aging process. Activities such as standing up or walking stairs can become difficult, especially in older and larger pets. Early action is the best action. Regular check-ups with your veterinarian are the best way to monitor your pet's aging process. Have your animal examined if you notice limping, stiffness or a change in gait.

How does Chondro-Flex (Dasuqin) work?
Chondro-Flex (Dasuqin) acts as a 1-2-3 punch to help support and maintain healthy cartilage. Chondro-Flex (Dasuqin) is complete with Glucosamine HCI, low-molecular-weight Chondroitin Sulfate and Methylsulfonylmethane (MSM). Low molecular weight means the particles are smaller and more easily absorbed by the body. It is one of the most pure forms available.

Glucosamine HCI is a major building block of cartilage. It also makes up 50% of the natural lubricant found in synovial fluid. By supplementing naturally present Glucosamine, the body is able to facilitate the manufacture and maintenance of cartilage, and helps restore lubricant in the synovial fluid. Synovial fluid then regains the ability to carry nutrients to rebuild cartilage, insulate bones from friction and cushion the joint.

Chondroitin Sulfate blocks the enzymes that break down cartilage and dilute the synovial fluid. Chondroitin and sulfurs also are key components for lubrication in the joints.

MSM is a natural anti-inflammatory, noted for its exceptionally non-toxic nature. MSM supplies dietary sulfur necessary for collagen production, which helps form bones, tendons and connective tissue.

Why do we recommend Chondroflex (Dasuqin)?

• Safe and effective 
• Correct balance between all ingredients 
• Specifically made for animals
• Tested to ensure the correct ingredients are in the product (Not all supplements are tested)
• Economical
• We use it for our own animals

Pet Loss...How Do I Know When It Is Time

Perhaps the kindest thing you can do for a pet that is so sick or so severely injured that he or she will never recover normal health is to have your veterinarian induce its death quietly and humanely through euthanasia. Your decision to have your pet euthanatized is a serious one, seldom easy to make.

What should I do?
Your relationship with your pet is special, and you are responsible for its care and welfare. Eventually, many owners are faced with making life or death decisions for their pets. Such a decision may become necessary for the welfare of the animal and for you and your family.

A decision concerning euthanasia may be one of the most difficult decisions you will ever make regarding your pet. Your decision is a personal one, but it need not be a solitary one. Your veterinarian and your family and friends can assist and support you. Consider not only what is best for your pet, but also what is best for you and your family. Quality of life is important for pets and people alike.

How will I know when?
If your pet can no longer do with you and your family the things he or she once enjoyed, if your pet cannot respond to you in the usual ways, or if there is more pain than pleasure in his or her life, you may need to consider euthanasia. Likewise, if your pet is terminally ill or critically injured, or if the financial or emotional cost of treatment is beyond your means, euthanasia may be a valid option.

Your veterinarian understands attachment to pets, and can examine and evaluate your pet's condition, estimate your pet's chances for recovery, and discuss potential disabilities and long-term problems. He or she can explain the medical options and possible outcomes. Because your veterinarian cannot make the euthanasia decision for  you, it is important that you fully understand your pet's condition. If there is any part of the diagnosis or the implications for your pet's future that you don't understand, ask to have it explained again. Rarely will the situation require an immediate decision. Usually, you will have time to review the facts before making your decision.

As you make your decision, you may wish to discuss the care of the remains of your pet's body with your family and veterinarian. You have several options, and your veterinarian can provide information about burial, cremation, or other alternatives.

Reference: www.avma.org

Allergy Alert!

Many of our allergy patients are miserable right now. We typically think of allergy season as spring and fall, but August is a very bad allergy time. If your pet has begun scratching or licking more frequently please let us know. Especially, if your pet has already been diagnosed and treated for allergies.

Other signs to look for:

• Pustules on the skin
• Red and irritated feet
• Flaky, dry skin
• Red skin
• Waxy and or red ears
• Hair loss

What can you do to help your pet be more comfortable? Generally, we have to tweak their medication to help them get through the rough patch. Don't hesitate to call if your pet seems more symptomatic.

Tips for Finding a Lost Pet

When Jennifer Paterno of Belleville, N.J., learned that her 8-month-old Labrador retriever mix had let herself out of their new home and slipped a neighbor's grip on a frigid day last January, she did what experts advise panicked pet owners to do: She got busy, fast.

Paterno quickly made and distributed flyers with Jersey's photo and identifying information to area businesses, local police departments, and shelters. She posted notices on her Facebook page and on various online lost-and-found pets bulletin boards. A dozen neighbors and friends drove up and down streets calling Jersey's name.

The next day, employees of a local towing company who had a stack of the flyers spotted Jersey and called the police. The police called Paterno, and the group cornered Jersey a few blocks from home.
Paterno and Jersey were lucky. Jersey wasn't wearing a collar, so she had no tag. She also didn't have a microchip, which would have identified her if she had ended up at a shelter or veterinary clinic with a microchip scanner.
But Paterno otherwise did the right thing, experts say. She acted quickly and covered a lot of ground in her search.
WebMD asked experts for more tips on the best way to find a lost pet. Here's what they said.

Don't Wait

Start your search right away.
"Get out immediately and start shouting and making a lot of noise," says Emily Weiss, PhD, senior director of shelter research and development for the ASPCA. "The simple 'lost' posters are often good ways to get the word out, knocking on doors, waving down cars... most dogs and cats stay fairly close to where they were originally lost."
Some shelters will euthanize untagged animals, especially cats, between 48 and 72 hours, depending on the hold period, she says.

Read the rest of the article,  Tips for Finding a Lost Pet.

When the Fur Flies: Pet Deshedding Tools

Tired of finding pet hair, here, there and everywhere? Learn how you can reduce the hair flying around your house, click here for full article.


Another handy deshedding tool that we highly recommend is a Furminator. To learn more about Furminators, click here. Furminators work great on dogs and cats. The best part is Furminators don't pull and rip the hair out which makes it a lot easier to groom your pet. 

The Dangers of High Temperatures

With high temperatures we have to be very careful with our pets. Dogs and cats can succomb to heat exhaustion.

Tips to keep your pet cool:

• If you have air conditioning leave it on while at work.
• If you don't have air conditioning make sure you have open windows and fans to circulate the air.
• Restrict your pet's activity level especially for older pets.
• Make sure your pet has plenty of access to water.
• Don't leave your pet in the car! Within a matter of minutes a car's internal temperature can escalate well above the outside temperature.
• If you leave your dog outside while away from home make sure they have access to shade and water. With high temperatures dogs cannot be outside for an entire work day.

Pets Highly Susceptible to High Temps:

• Older Pets (8 years of age and older)
• Dogs with smooshed in faces: Pugs, Boxers, Sharpeis, Bulldogs, Mastiffs, etc.

Signs of Heat Exhaustion:

• Bright red gums & skin
• Excessive panting
• Lethargy
• Vomiting
• Feet become sweaty
• Will lay stretched out for long periods of time
• Rapid heart and respiratory rates

If your pet appears to exihibt signs of heat exhaustion they should be see by a veterinarian right away. Prolonged heat exhaustion can result in death.

3 Spring Toxins to Watch For

1. Daffodils

Daffodils contain lycorine, which triggers vomiting. Ingestion of the bulb, plant, or flower also can cause diarrhea, abdominal pain, and possibly even cardiac arrhythmias or respiratory depression in pets. Severe symptoms may require immediate treatment.

2. Lilies

True lilies, including Tiger, Day, Asiatic, Easter, and Japanese Show lilies, are all highly toxic to cats. Even small ingestions (such as eating the pollen or just two to three petals or leaves) can result in kidney failure and potentially death. If you see a cat eating a lily, immediately bring the cat and the lily plant to our clinic.

3. Fertilizers

Ingesting most only causes minor gastrointestinal irritation, but some fertilizers can be fatal to pets that eat them if the pets aren't treated. It is best to keep all lawn products in labeled, tightly sealed containers that are out of pets' reach. This is especially true for the more dangerous fertilizers:

• Blood meal. This is dried, ground, and flash-frozen blood. If eaten, it can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and severe inflammation of the pancreas.
• Bone meal. This is made of defatted, dried, and flash-frozen animal bones that are ground to a powder. If consumed in large amounts, bone meal can form a large, cement-like mass that obstructs the gastrointestinal tract and could potentially require surgery.
• Rose and plant fertilizers. Some of these fertilizers contain disulfoton or other types of organophosphates. As little as one teaspoon of 1 percent disulfoton can kill a 55-pound dog. Organophosphates can cause severe symptoms, such as salivation, lacrimation, urination, defecation, seizures, difficulty breathing, hyperthermia, and even death.

The best tip we can offer is not to plant the above flowers at your house and be very careful with the products you use on your lawn. Even if your pet does not typically eat things, even coming into indirect contact with these toxins can be risky.

Most Pets Do Not Show Dental Pain

We cannot begin to stress enough the importance of dental disease prevention in pets. Learn more about dental disease and why you probably won't see signs of discomfort in your pet, click here.

Interaction is Key!

Interactive Toys
Do you ever wonder if your pet is bored? Interactive toys are a great way to provide stimulation for your pet, including: maintaining a healthy weight, providing mental exercise and all around helping your pet behave better. Dogs especially can develop obnoxious and destructive habits if not provided with an outlet for energy.

Here are some great toys to keep your pet entertained:

Puzzle toys: these toys make your pet think in order to find a treat or another toy, click on this website for some examples, www.pawlickers.com/products/toys/puzzles-games.

Chew Toys: these toys will allow your pet to chew for hours. Kong Company is a great resource for this type of toy, www.kongcompany.com/worlds_best.html. Busy Buddy Company is another good resource, www.busybuddytoys.com/index.cfm.

Cat Fly Toys: these toys bring out the natural predator in your kitty. Fly toys are designed to get your cat leaping in the air for their "prey."


The key to keeping your pet active is interaction from you and a favorite toy or game. Experiment, find out what it is your pet likes to do best and provide that stimulation on a daily basis.

Mistakes People Make Feeding Cats

This article offers some insight into properly feeding your cat to maintain its health. Another important tip to remember: don't free feed. Many cat owners will leave out a bowl full of food throughout the day. Not only can this lead to obesity in cats, but it also does not give a good indication of whether or not your cat is eating. When cats don't feel well they will gradually stop eating. When a bowl full of food is left out it is hard to tell how much they are in fact eating throughout the day. We recommend measuring your cats food daily so you always know how much has been consumed. This will greatly help diagnose any medical issues if your cat becomes ill. View the article by following the link: Mistakes People Make Feeding Cats

All About Ticks

Many of our clients are concerned about ticks and preventing them. The main time to worry about ticks in this part of the state is May, June and July. Ticks are more prevalent in woody areas and tall grassy areas. To learn more about ticks visit this wonderful website, http://www.dogsandticks.com/index.html. You will find a wealth of information. For tick prevention we recommend Advantix. Advantix is a topical flea and tick prevention. It is a liquid that is applied directly to the skin every 30 days.

To view a map of tick prevalence visit this site, http://www.dogsandticks.com/NA-map-lyme-disease-dogs/index.html.

The Facts About Heartworm Disease

What causes heartworm disease?

Heartworm disease is caused by a worm called "Dirofilaria immitis." Heartworms are most commonly found in dogs. However, they can infect a wide variety of mammals including cats, ferrets, sea lions, bears, foxes, wolves, coyotes, and even people. Adult heartworms generally live in the heart and major arteries of the lungs, although they may be found in other areas of the body.

How are heartworms transmitted?

Heartworms can only be transmitted from one animal to another by mosquitoes. Adult worms produce microfilariae (small, immature heartworms) which may be found in the blood of infected dogs. The mosquito ingests heartworm microfilarie when biting an infected host (usually a dog). The microfilarie develop in the mosquito into "infective larvae" and are deposited with saliva on the dog's skin as the mosquito is feeding. The infective larvae pass through the skin and migrate through the body tissues.

What are the signs of heartworm disease?

 

Many dogs infected with heartworms may not show any evidence of infection in the early stages. It can take 6-7 months for symptoms to even begin to appear. This is why prevention and heartworm testing are so important. Initially, dogs tend to develop cough and experience difficulty breathing. They may exhibit decreased tolerance to exercise, develop fainting episodes or suffer severe weight loss. Since the heart and lungs are affected, many of the clinical signs seen are typical of heart failure, pneumonia, or other debilitating disease. The severity and onset of clinical signs relate to three things: number of heartworms present, duration of the infection and the dog's response.

 

How do I know if my dog has heartworms?

 

You don't unless your dog is heartworm tested once a year preferably in April or May. Heartworm testing requires a small blood sample.

 

My dog rarely goes outside. Can it be infected with heartworms?

 

Heartworm infections have been reported in dogs that rarely go outside. If a mosquito carrying heartworm infective larvae enters the house, it can bite your dog and the larvae may infect your dog. In addition, most dogs have frequent short trips outside which mosquito bites may occur.

 

Heartworm Disease is Preventable

 

Many heartworm preventions are on the market. The product we recommend is Interceptor. Why do we recommend Interceptor? Interceptor is safe for all dog breeds, prevents heartworm disease, internal parasites, and is the product Dr. Nicol uses for her own pets. We do not recommend any products that Dr. Nicol wouldn't use on her own pets. Interceptor is given orally once a month in the form of a flavored tablet.

 

Take Heartworm Disease seriously. Make Sure your pet is tested once a year and on heartworm prevention. It is far easier to prevent heartworm disease than to treat it!

Proin Can Help

Urinary incontinence is a term that refers to the inability of the bladder to store urine. For normal storage of urine, the bladder wall relaxes to allow filling and the urethral sphincter closes tightly to prevent urine from leaking out. Urinary incontinence occurs when the urethral sphincter loses the ability to tighten, causing urine to leak out.

This disorder can occur in male and female dogs of any age or breed, but is most common to spayed females. Obesity has also been associated with the problem.

The leaking associated with urinary incontinence can be distressing to both you and your pet. An unpleasant odor can develop. Dermatitis, urine scalding, infection around the animal's urethra or vulva, and other health problems can develop.

Urinary incontinence is a fairly common problem that luckily has a treatment available. Phenylpropanolamine hydrochloride (ppa), the active ingredient in Proin, is an alpha agonist drug treatment. It has been proven to be highly effective in the treatment of urinary incontinence in dogs. Proin has few or no side effects. Proin stimulates the neuromuscular receptors of the urethral muscles, aiding in the tightening of the sphincter, which prevents the leaking of urine.

Most of the time you will notice urinary incontinence when your dog sleeps or after he/she gets up from laying down. It can vary from large quantities to small spots of urine. If you ever notice any symptoms of incontinence call us right away. This condition requires treatment not punishment.

Pet Symptoms: 6 Signs of Illness in Your Dog or Cat

What our sick pets can’t say in words, they’ll demonstrate through physical symptoms and behavior changes. To view the article click on the link, http://pets.webmd.com/features/pet-symptoms-6-signs-illness-dog-cat.

Wondering how animals in Haiti have been affected?

Follow the link for a really great article about the relief effort in Haiti and the work being done to aid animals. http://veterinarynews.dvm360.com/dvm/Veterinary+news/Haitis-hard-recovery/ArticleStandard/Article/detail/658802?ref=25

Itchiness, Desire to Scratch, Chew or Lick Causing Inflamed Skin in Dogs | PetMD

To learn more about why animals itch, scratch and or chew/lick follow the link:
Itchiness, Desire to Scratch, Chew or Lick Causing Inflamed Skin in Dogs | PetMD

Keep Your Pet Healthy And Happy

This is a great article about how to keep your pet healthy and important tips to remember throughout your pets life. Check it out: Keep Your Pet Healthy And Happy

Protect Your Dog From a Common Respiratory Disease

Infectious tracheobronchitis (ITB) is the medical term for "canine cough." The most prevalent upper respiratory infection of dogs of all ages, ITB is recognized by a persistent, hacking or honking, gagging, sometimes spasmodic cough. ITB can last for days or weeks if left untreated. It is also extremely contagious.

What causes ITB? ITB can be caused by various viruses and bacteria acting alone or in combination. These include:

• Bordetella bronchiseptica, the bacteria most often isolated in dogs with ITB
• Canine parainfluenza virus
• Canine adenovirus-2

Bordetella bronchiseptica bacteria are widely present in dogs. Whooping cough in humans is caused by a closely related organism.

Is your dog at risk?

• ITB is easily transmitted when dogs cough or come in contact with each other or with contaminated premises.
• Most dogs have not been vaccinated for Bordetella and could potentially be carriers of ITB.
• Puppies are at a greater risk of Bordetella infection because they have not been vaccinated or previously exposed.

Risk of ITB is increased if any of the following risk factors apply:

• Dog lives in a multi-dog household (introduce new dog or friends/relatives bring dogs over to visit)
  
• Free access to unmonitored outdoor activity (ITB often gets passed from "neighbor dogs")
• Visits to dog parks
• Often kenneled for boarding or grooming, or commercially transported (airplane, etc)
• Chronic heart or lung disease
• Attending dog training classes
  

Why protection from ITB is important:

• Severe ITB can lead to prolonged or chronic bronchial disease and pneumonia
• Even after recovery from ITB, dogs take weeks or even months to clear Bordetella organisms from their respiratory tracts
• Dogs with ITB may experience spasmodic coughing
• ITB is a disease of inconvenience that deprives dogs (and owners) of sleep, limits activity and may require treatment with antibiotics and cough-suppressant drugs

Protecting your dog from ITB:

• If your dog is at risk of ITB (see risk factors above) then we recommend administering the Bordetella vaccine
• If you have any questions about whether or not your dog is at risk please call our office

ITB is preventable as long as you keep your dog protected on a yearly basis with routine vaccinations.

February is Dental Awareness Month: Pets Need Dental Care Too

Dental Prevention Month

February is dental prevention month. Stop by and pick up your sample dental kit!!!

You can also enter to win a free dental kit! We will draw 2 names a week to win a free dental kit ($30 value).

Dental kits contain: CET toothpaste, CET dental chews or Tartar Control treats for cats and Biotene plaque removing drinking water additive (odorless & tasteless).

All of the above products are easy to use and require minimal work. The best part is, you don't even have to brush your pet's teeth!

Dental kits are available for purchase. The cost of a Dental Kit is $30.00. Those who purchase Dental Kits will receive a free one after 10 purchases! Even better, Willoughby Pet Clinic will donate a portion of the Dental Kit proceeds to local animal welfare organizations.

The kit should last a month to two months depending on how often the products are used.

Dental disease affects both dogs and cats! The good news is, dental disease is preventable. If gone untreated dental disease can result in tooth loss, jaw bone damage, gum disease, organ damage and infection throughout the body.

For a DOLLAR a day you can prevent dental disease in your furry friend! Ask us how...we are here to help.

Also, anyone who schedules a dental in the month of February will automatically be entered into a drawing to win 20% off a ROUTINE CLEANING!

If you are not sure if your pet needs a dental cleaning please call and ask. We would be happy to help you.

Please note, if you cancel/reschedule your dental after it is scheduled you forfeit your opportunity to win 20% off.

Our goal for 2010 is to get more of our clients preventing dental disease in their pets!

We want all of our patients free of dental disease. After all it is preventable!

Are Pets Supposed to Have Bad Breath?

The answer is no. One of the most common problems we see with pets is gingivitis. Just like humans, pets can get gingivitis, which leads to tooth decay. Bad breath is more than just a nuisance to you. It's an indication that your pet's teeth need attention. As tartar builds, it irritates the gums and leads to bad breath. It could also be a sign of periodontal disease---a condition that has been linked to heart, kidney and liver problems. Ultimately a shorter lifespan for your pet.

Important Terms to Know:

Periodontium
The structures that support the tooth.

Gingiva (gums)
Soft tissues that cover the bones surrounding the teeth.

Cementum
Tissue that attaches the tooth root to the periodontal ligament.

Plaque
A film of bacteria that forms on teeth daily, leading to gingivitis and periodontal disease.

Calculus (tartar)
Mineralized, crusty deposits that irritate gums when plaque is not removed.

Periodontal Disease
Painful oral disease that can lead to tooth loss and organ disease.

Gingivitis
Inflammation of the gingiva.

Periodontitis
Inflammation and disease of the tooth support tissues.

Facts
85% of all dogs over one year of age have some degree of periodontal disease, but only 3% get treated.

72% of all cats older than five years have at least one painful FORL (feline ondoclastic resorptive lesions). They can be likened to a cavity and are extremely painful.

Dogs are diagnosed with dental disease more than any other affliction.

Studies show that 70 percent of cats show signs of gum disease (gingivitis) by age three. Symptoms include yellow and brown build-up of tartar along the gum line, red inflammed gums and persistent bad breath.

Signs & Symptoms of Poor Oral Health

• Persistent bad breath
• Sensitivity around the mouth
• Pawing at the mouth
• Loss of appetite
• Plaque
• Bleeding, inflamed, or receded gums
• Loose or missing teeth
• Difficulty eating and chewing food
• Chronic licking

What can you do?

Brush your pet's teeth daily with approved pet toothpaste. If using a toothbrush is too difficult simply apply the toothpaste on their teeth with your finger. You can also put the toothpaste inside a kong or on a bone. The important part to remember is getting the toothpaste on their teeth and gums.

Use a plaque removing drinking water additive. This can be added to their water and consumed daily. It helps to reduce plaque and provides an easy way to keep their teeth healthy.

Provide dental chews and bones for your pet. CET chews are a great product. They are made for dogs and cats. CET chews are infused with enzymes that reduce tartar and plaque buildup.

OraVet plaque prevention gel can be applied to your pets gum line weekly. Typically this is applied after your pet has had OraVet applied as a sealant during a dental. OraVet works to reduce bacteria that can cause bad breath and help extend the time between cleanings. Applying OraVet takes less than 60 seconds. OraVet is completely odorless, tasteless and invisible once applied.

Routine dental cleanings will also make a dramatic difference in your pet's oral health. Typically between the age of 3 to 5 years pets will need their first dental cleaning. This can be established at the time of their yearly physical exam. Some pets will need routine cleanings once a year; some needs it every 6 months. Establishing a routine of consistent cleanings will make a huge difference down the road! We have found that owners who routinely have their pet's teeth cleaned from an early age on, are less likely to need tooth extractions due to severe periodontal disease. Ultimately, without all the plaque, calculus and bacteria build up your pet will experience fewer complications of the liver, kidneys and heart as they age. This means a longer, healthier lifespan for your furry companion!

If you have any questions about providing oral hygiene for your pet please let us know!

We do carry pet safe toothpaste, drinking water additives and dental chews! Of course we have Dental Kits!

Will you protect your pet's mouth?

Quick Nutrition Facts

The next time you offer your pet "people" food think about these facts:

• Only 1 ounce of cheddar cheese for a 20 pound dog has the same number of calories as 2 1/2 hamburgers or 1 1/2 chocolate bars do for a person
• Do you know that for a 10 pound cat, 1 cup of milk has the same number of calories as 4 1/2 hamburgers or 5 chocolate bars do for a person?
• For a 20 pound dog, eating just 1 hot dog is the same as a person consuming 3 entire hamburgers or 2 whole chocolate bars.
• If a 10 pound cat ate just 1 ounce of cheddar cheese it would be the same as if a person ate 3 1/2 hamburgers or 4 whole chocolate bars.

There are "people" food treats you can give your pet without having to worry about making your pet overweight:

• Apples
• Carrots
• Bananas
• Green Beans
• Rice Cakes
• Deli Meat (small pieces, turkey or chicken)

Help Us Keep Your Pet Safe

If your pet is on prescription medication you might be wondering why periodic blood work and/or monitoring has to occur. Monitoring helps ensure lasting effectiveness and safety. We can catch adverse reactions sooner. Regular monitoring can guide us as we evaluate your pet for any side effects, potential complications and/or interactions with other drugs. If needed, we can make adjustments to keep your pet comfortable and to properly treat his/her condition. It may help us unmask hidden diseases. By testing your pet, we may uncover a hidden ailment or condition that requires attention or alters our recommended course of treatment. We can establish a baseline picture of your pet's health. When we know what's "normal" for your pet, we can determine when changes in your pet indicate areas of concern. This helps us evaluate the treatment plan and make adjustments as necessary. It can help us keep an eye on your pet's pre-existing conditions. Pets with certain conditions may respond differently to medications. By monitoring a pet with a chronic or notable health condition, we can watch for implications of the new medication and make adjustments if necessary. It helps us prescribe the proper medication. Every pet is different and may react differently to medications. We want to make sure your pet's medication is right for its age, size, breed and physical condition.

Hidden Health Problems-We may screen for some of the following conditions in determining your pet's health status.

Liver
Tests can indicate:

• Liver disease
• Cushing's syndrome
• Abnormalities resulting from long-term medications

Kidney
Tests can indicate:

• Kidney disease
• Renal failure
• Abnormalities resulting from long-term medications

Urinalysis and urine protein:creatinine ratio are used to better evaluate:

• Kidney function
• Kidney infection

Pancreas
Tests can indicate:

• Pancreatitis
• Diabetes mellitus
• Abnormalities resulting from long-term medications

Blood
CBC/Hematocrit are used to screen for:

• Infection
• Leukemia
• Anemia (low red blood cells)

Teeth
Dental exams uncover mouth infections, which can cause problems with vital organs.

Thyroid
Tests can indicate hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism.

Heart
Tests can indicate heartworm disease.

Generally, if your pet is on medications for any of the following conditions monitoring is required:

• Arthritis
• Heart Disease
• Allergies
• Epilepsy/Seizure
• Hypothyroid/Hyperthyroid
  

Your Cat May Be At Risk

Feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV) and feline leukemia virus (FELV) are leading causes of illness and death in cats. FIV is the feline form of HIV. FIV only infects cats and is not transmissible to people. Both viruses affect cats in similar ways, and both can be deadly. Simply put, all cats are at risk. Even "indoor" cats should be tested to rule out the possibility of infection.

The American Association of Feline Practitioners (AAFP) urges all cat owners to have their cats tested for FIV and FELV, especially at-risk cats, sick cats and kittens. Early detection of infection will enable you to manage the disease, maintain the health of your cat, and will also help prevent the spread of infection to other cats.

What are the dangers of FIV and FELV?

• Found in every region of the United States
• Highly contagious
• Transmitted from cat to cat
• Can be fatal
• Few outward signs, and no "sure" signs
• Associated with illness and death of more cats that any other disease
• Weaken a cat's immune system

What are the risk factors?

• Fighting
• Time outdoors
• Contact with other cats (boarding, screen windows open in summer time)
• Newly adopted
• Sickness

Without testing, there is no way to know whether your cat is infected. Without a diagnosis, your cat cannot be treated properly. If you do not know the status of your cat, it may carry and possibly spread the disease to other cats.

What are the signs?
There are no "sure" signs of either disease. In some cats, signs don't appear for weeks, months or even years after they are infected.

Infected cats can show any of these signs

• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Weight loss
• Weakness
• Bite wounds
• Infected wounds
• Not drinking water
• Fever
• Bleeding or pale gums
• Behavioral changes
• Grooming changes
• Dull or matted coat
• Swollen lymph nodes
• Mouth sores

What if my cat does have these diseases?
You and your veterinarian will have to carefully assess the health of the cat and develop a management plan to keep the infection down.

31 million cats are at risk for FIV each year and only 11% of cats at risk for FIV/FELV are tested.

If you answer yes to any of the below questions, consider having your cat tested:

• Has your cat had a bite wound?
• Has your cat been outside for even a brief period of time?
• Has your cat been exposed to any other cat whose status is unknown?

Cats are tested for FIV/FELV with a simple blood test that takes 20 minutes to run.

Pets Age Faster Than People

Does your pet act its age? Pets age seven times faster, on average, than people. Most dogs and cats reach adulthood by age two. By age four, many pets are entering middle age. And by age seven, most dogs, particularly large breeds, are entering their senior years. Because dogs and cats age so rapidly, major health changes can occur in a short amount of time. The risk of dental disease, heart disease, diabetes, kidney disease, arthritis and cancer all increase with age. Many of these diseases and conditions can worsen within a matter of weeks. Even pets that appear normal can have an underlying problem that may only be detected during an examination by your veterinarian. Because dogs and cats age so rapidly, they should receive an annual wellness exam.

Important information for cat owners:
There are more than 90 million cats in the U.S., or about 20 percent more cats than dogs. However, according to the American Veterinary Medical Association, cats are brought to the veterinarian only about half as often as dogs. Some veterinarians believe cats hide illness better than dogs, and many times owners may not realize there is a problem. Behavioral changes can be early signs of illness in both cats and dogs. These changes are often less obvious in cats. Cat owners may not notice subtle changes in appetite, elimination or other behavior until an illness is advanced. The risk of cancer, periodontal disease, obesity, kidney disease, thyroid disease and diabetes increases with age in cats. In addition to bringing your cat to the veterinarian for a wellness exam, pay close attention to changes in you pet's weight, food and water consumption, elimination, grooming and other behavior. Your ability to perceive and respond to subtle changes can make a big difference in the life and health of your cat.

Learn more here, www.NPWM.com

Pet Food and Supply Drive A Success!!!

A big thank you to everyone who helped us collect pet food and supplies. With your help we collected 224.5 pounds of pet food and numerous toys, leashes, beds and treats. The donated items were sent to Greater Lansing Food Bank, who then distributed them to area residents in need. Given the success of the pet food and supply drive we are going to continue this effort year round. You may drop off items at any time or provide a monetary contribution and we will purchase food through our distributors. Thank you again for making this such a huge success!!!

The only item we cannot except is an opened bag of food.

Diabetes Awareness

Just like humans, pets are susceptible to Diabetes. Diabetes mellitus is a condition that develops when your pet cannot use sugar (glucose) effectively and control the sugar level in the blood. Insulin, which is made in pancreas, is essential for regulating the use and storage of blood glucose. Insufficient insulin production is potentially life threatening.

There are two types of diabetes, and although there is no cure, pets with either type can be successfully managed through nutrition, exercise and insulin medication. What causes diabetes? A reduction in insulin production is usually caused by damage to the pancreas. In some pets hormonal changes or medications can reduce the effect of insulin. Other factors that increase the chance of your pet developing diabetes include:

1. Body Condition: Overweight cats and dogs are more likely to develop diabetes. Severely obese cats are most at risk.
2. Age: Pets can develop diabetes at any age, but the peak onset is around 8 years.
3. Breed: Some breeds of dogs such as, Samoyeds, Miniature Schnauzers, Miniature Poodles and Bichon Frise are more predisposed to diabetes than others. In cats, Burmese are more at risk than other breeds.

The key to keeping a diabetic pet healthy is routine feeding, exercise and insulin medication at the same times each day. This helps maintain stable blood glucose levels.

Does my pets have diabetes? The signs of diabetes are difficult to recognize because they are similar to those of other disorders. If you notice any of the following, consult your veterinarian:

• Increased thirst
• Cataracts (in dogs)
• Urinates more often (noted in cats by 'clumping' in the litter box and the need to change litter more often)
• Weight loss
• Doesn't eat
• Tired, lack of energy
• Vomiting

Once diabetes is diagnosed, it is important that your pet is regularly monitored. Glucose levels are checked regularly and adjustments often occur frequently at the onset of treatment. Once your pet is diagnosed with diabetes, treatment occurs for the rest of your pet's life.