Animal Health Care Center
July 2007
Id you know that animals can suffer from some of the same allergens as people? This may include things such as: house dust, dust mites, mold, feathers, cotton, pollen, animal dander, flea saliva, wool, tobacco smoke & food, just to name a few. If you suspect that your pet may be suffering from allergies call us today for an appointment.
No matter how much cats fight, there always seem to be plenty of kittens.
- - - Abraham Lincoln
QUICK TIP FOR JUNE:
Does your pet go to the groomer, puppy classes, or boarding facilities? Maybe he is known to wander away from home every now & then, ending up at the local shelter. You may consider keeping him up-to-date on his yearly bordetella vaccine. This helps to prevent kennel cough.
Planning your vacation? We offer boarding services requiring proof of current vaccines and a short reservation notice.
If you are planning to take your pet along, remember to take fresh water and stop frequently for bathroom breaks.
If your pet gets carsick or becomes stressed easily, we do offer medications to make the trip as comfortable as possible for your furry friend.
Remember your car can become very hot in a short amount of time during the summer months. An unattended vehicle is no place for your pets, even for just a few minutes.
Rthritis. Our pets may develop this condition that is inflammation of the joints for a variety of reasons. In many cases it seen in our geriatric patients after years of frolicking after those beloved tennis balls. Sometimes it is due to sustained injuries. Anomalies may also play a role; large breed dogs will often have localized trouble with their hips, while small breed dogs frequently have luxating patellas (or kneecaps) that pop in and out of joint. Dogs that are long-bodied are prone to back problems through out life as well.
So you are concerned that your pet may not be as comfortable as she once was. What is the next step you should take?
The first step is to make an appointment with your veterinarian. Your vet will obtain a history to identify what triggers your pet’s discomfort. He will want to perform a complete physical exam, palpating (or feeling) for stiffness, tenderness, popping, or cracking sensations of the joints. Next he may suggest further testing such as: radiographs (x-rays) and blood work to check organ functions (especially important if long-term pain medicines are indicated).
My pet has been diagnosed with arthritis, now what? Your veterinarian has many options available to him to aid in the treatment of arthritis. Some of them include prescription diets formulated for joint health, daily supplements, & pain medications. Each patient is treated according to her own specific needs.
What can I do as an owner? You can begin as early as puppy & kitten hood to help maintain joint health by placing your new pet on a diet appropriate for them.
Appropriate exercise for your pet is important. When kept still the joints become stiff. Keeping your pet moving may help loosen those joints & maintain the surrounding muscles that support the joint.
The most advantageous thing you can do for your pet through out her life is to maintain her at a healthy weight. Considering our pet’s size, even being a few pounds overweight can make a big difference. This extra weight places unnecessary strain on the joints.
What do I watch for at home? You may notice that your pet has trouble getting up and down stairs or furniture, or is slow to rise especially after being inactive for a while. She may also be slow to sit or lay down. Cold and damp weather may slow her down. She may not be as eager to play as she once was. You may note that she has become cranky, cries out, may snap when affected areas are being handled, or has intermittent lameness.
If you have noticed any of these signs contact us for an evaluation of your pet.
(540) 943-2273