Tuesday, May 24, 2011


When the weather is warmer owners tend to let their pets outside more. Make sure your pet has an identification tag on its collar. The tag should have your daytime and home phone numbers or email address. Also, ask us about microchipping. It can help identify your pet if it is turned into an animal shelter. 



Tuesday, May 17, 2011


When temperatures soar, remember to watch your pet closely for signs of heatstroke or dehydration. Because dogs and cats don’t perspire heavily, their body temperatures rise much quicker than people’s body temperatures. We recommend scheduling exercise in the cooler mornings and evenings…and stopping for rest if your pet is lagging behind, even slightly. Plenty of shade and fresh water is a must, and keep your pet inside for those particularly hot afternoons. Just a tip so you and your pet can enjoy this great season together! 


Wednesday, May 11, 2011

Bloat and your Dog

Bloat occurs when a dog's stomach fills with gas or air and flips on itself, cutting off circulation. Typically, this life-threatening condition occurs with large dogs.

But Dr. Jennifer Monroe of Eagle's Landing Veterinary Hospital in Georgia notes that any dog can be affected by bloat. Here are a few tips from Monroe to help reduce the chances of your dog suffering from bloat:

Know the risk factors
Doctors don't know what causes bloat, but Monroe says that certain attributes can increase your dog's chances of developing the condition.

Large-breed dogs with deep chests -- such as Great Danes, Dobermans, German shepherds, standard poodles and your beloved boxer -- particularly are at risk. She also notes that the condition also is more prevalent among older, male dogs.

MNN: How to find a place to board your pet
Since gulping down food can contribute to gastric issues, dogs that eat one meal a day or tend to inhale their kibble face a greater risk of developing bloat, Monroe says. Elevated food bowls also may increase risk.
If you have invested in a fancy elevated set for your pooch or if your pet has a tendency to inhale its food, Monroe suggests placing a tennis ball in with the food bowl.

"You are trying to prevent them from gulping air while eating quickly," she says. "Also, try feeding the dog small meals several times a day rather than one large meal."

Slow-feed dog bowls also make it harder for dog snouts to dig in, so scan your local pet store for variations on the theme.

Recognize early warning signs
Head to the veterinarian if your dog's abdomen suddenly appears larger or if your pet has unproductive retching, Monroe says. Other warning signs include pale gums and excessive drooling.
Initial treatment involves stabilizing the dog, administering IV fluids and decompressing its stomach to remove some of that gas.

MNN: What you need for a pet first aid kit
Veterinarians also perform a procedure called gastropexy, which involves tacking the stomach to a wall of the dog's abdomen. This helps prevent the stomach from flipping.

"Twenty years ago, the survival rate was 25 percent," Monroe says. "With surgery and care, especially if treated early, about 80 percent do pretty well." Post-surgery, dogs require limited exercise for about two weeks.

Take precautions
If you have an at-risk breed, Monroe suggests that dog owners take proactive measures and opt for the gastropexy during a neuter or spay procedure.
"It can really save the dog's life."

Tuesday, May 10, 2011


Spring is here! It's time to go outdoors with your pet and check out all flowers and plants.  Make sure to keep an eye on your pet in case a bee decides he doesn't want your pet to get up close and personal.  There are all sorts of flying critters out in the garden, so make sure your pet is protected from allergic reactions to insect bites or stings. Protect your pet so you both can enjoy the spring season together! 


Friday, May 6, 2011

Happy Mother's Day!

We would like to wish a Happy Mother's Day to all the moms out there. You are appreciated and we are sure if your pets could, they would say the same thing! Have a great Mother's Day everyone!

Wednesday, May 4, 2011

This week is Be Kind to Animals Week!

Join the event that’s been celebrated every year since 1915 -- American Humane Association’s Be Kind to Animals Week. In this annual tradition, we commemorate the role animals play in our lives, promote ways to continue to treat them humanely, and encourage others, especially children, to do the same. While Be Kind to Animals Week is celebrated only once a year, we should strive to always be kind to animals every day. What is the kindest thing you've done for your pet today?

 

Tuesday, May 3, 2011

Fleas

As the temperature begins to raise so does something else…the flea population! Ideally, flea control should begin as flea prevention…before flea season starts. As a loving pet owner, you’d do anything to prevent your cat or dog from suffering, after all, they’re part of the family. Yet every year when flea season begins, it’s like an ......old broken record. Fleas bite, and the scratching and chewing starts again. It’s a painful and irritating routine for you and your pet. But that’s not all. The adult fleas on your pet can actually cause serious medical problems…like flea allergy dermatitis or tapeworms, and in some extreme cases, anemia. We can help! Ask us about how to keep your pet flea free, at your next visit!