Winter Hazards for Pets

Winter Hazards for Pets

Extreme winter conditions can be harmful to pets.  Provide them with shelter and some pets may need to come inside on cold days.  Cold conditions may cause hypothermia or frostbite.

Cats and kittens sometimes nap in car engines since they are warm.  Before starting your car knock on the hood or honk your horn.  

Pets like the smell and taste of antifreeze.  Even a small amount can be deadly.  Thoroughly clean any spells.  

Remove ice, salt or caked mud from your pets paws.  Some salts can be toxic if ingested.  

Poinsettias and mistletoe can be toxic to your pet in ingested.

Dogs have about 100 different facial expressions and most of them are made with the ears. What do you call your favorite pet expression?

A #cat's tongue is scratchy because it's lined with papillae—tiny elevated backwards hooks that help your cat groom itself #themoreyouknow

Halloween Dangers to Pets

There are plenty of ways to find trouble on Halloween, particularly if left alone with a bag full of goodies. Chocolate is more harmful to pets than any other candy. In general the darker the chocolate, the more toxic it can be. Symptoms in dogs that have ingested chocolate can include vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy or agitation, elevated heart rate, and in severe cases seizures.

The candy itself isn't the only threat--ingestion of foil and cellophane wrappers can in some cases cause life threatening bowel obstructions, which often require surgical intervention.

If you suspect your pet has ingested any of your Halloween treats, please contact your veterinarian.

Jane Bishop, VT
800-213-6680
www.petpoisonhelpline.com

Unscented clumping litter is recommended and preferred by most cats. Come in and we can chat about litter today!

#Cats have more than 100 vocal sounds, while #dogs have about 10. Who’s louder in your home?

PUPPY TRAINING

Spending time exercising and socializing your puppy is one of the most important gifts you can give to your new family member.

Lack of socialization is a common cause of behavior problems later in life. Some good ways to insure a well rounded, socialized puppy may include puppy classes, which not only teach obedience, but introduce your puppy to other dogs and people. Go for car rides, run the vacuum cleaner, give your puppy a bath, or go out to meet your neighbors.

Exercise and mental stimulation are also very important to raising a well rounded puppy. Playtime with your puppy is great bonding time, and gives your puppy a chance to learn how the world works. Many unwanted behaviors can be linked to inadequate exercise and mental stimulation. Provide safe, interactive toys for our puppy to play with.

Your puppy will also need to experience some alone time. Time to rest and time to play on their own. This will aid in the prevention of developing separation anxiety.

Another very important aspect for your new puppy will develop good bathroom habits. Remember that your puppy will learn best with a consistent routine and positive reinforcement. Using a crate can help ease the potty training process. It is important to know that a crate is NOT a place of punishment; it is meant to be a safe haven for your puppy.

Owning a new puppy is a big learning curve. Most importantly, have lots of fun together. Set your puppy up for success by making the process fun and positive.

Enjoy your time with your puppy and remember he is learning every day and you are his best teacher.

Jane Bishop, VT

Cognitive Changes in Older Pets

Older pets are the most rapidly growing segment in many Veterinary clinic populations. In part this is due to better and more sophisticated treatment, leading to longer living pets. Common client complaints and signs of cognitive decline include disorientation, alterations in social and environmental interactions, changes in sleep/wake cycle and changes in elimination behaviors.

As your pet ages the importance of a complete medical work up is recommended every 6 months. In pets with healthy kidney and liver function, there are a variety of medications that can be used to ease some symptoms.

Jane Bishop, VT
DVM 360

What Pet Owners Should Know About Roundworms and Hookworms

What Pet Owners Should Know About Roundworms and Hookworms

People can become infected with roundworms and hookworms from their pets. Dogs and cats that are infected with these parasites can contaminate their surroundings through fecal matter. The eggs and larvae can survive in the soil at parks, playgrounds and your yard.

Hookworm larva penetrate into the skin causing skin inflammation and infection. They can also penetrate into deeper tissue such as the intestines and other organs.

Roundworms enter the body when the eggs are ingested.  The larvae travel through the liver, lungs, and other organs. In some cases these larva can produce condition know as visceral larva migrans.
These larvae can cause tissue damage, nerve damage and occasionally blindness.

By keeping your pets on a monthly dewormer, such as Sentinel or Trifexis, and good general hygiene, you can prevent these infections.

For more information go to www.cdc.gov/healthypets or www.capcvet.org.

Tammy Washburn, LVT

The Importance of Annual Examinations

Annual Pet Examinations and The Rising Cost of Pet Care:

It is very important to bring your pet to see your veterinarian at least once a year. 

Vaccines are generally required annually once your pet reaches adulthood. Puppies, of course, require a regiment of vaccinations throughout their first year. The kennel cough vaccine, which is given twice a year, is another exception to the general rule of annual vaccinations.


As your pet ages or as health issues arise your pet may need to be seen more than once a year. Most pet owners understand that pets age faster than humans. So, if you only brought your pet in once a year, that would be like you going to the doctor every seven years.

A lot of changes can occur to your pet's health in a year. If your pet is on any long term medication your pet should be seen 2 - 4 times per year for an exam and blood work.

Some Ideas That May Help:

With the instability of the economy, we are all feeling the pinch of rising costs. Budgeting for pet care and medications is very important. It may help are to break your annual visit into two visits (or every six months). Ask your veterinarian if you can get more than one month's worth of medications. Some medications, however, by federal law can only be filled every 30 days.

Using preventatives like heartworm, flea, and tick products monthly year round are cheaper than treating the disease that your pets can get if you do not use these preventatives.

Finally, you may want to inquire about pet health insurances, which may cover the cost of preventative health care.

Amy Marcum, LVT

Rising Cost of Veterinary Care

by Amy Marcum, LVT

You may ask yourself why each visit to the vet seems to cost more and more. Just like when you buy a bag of chips, it costs you more per bag with less chips than there used to be.

The technology and equipment are much better today than 10 years ago.  our blood machines and tests are more accurate and run in minimal time for faster results.  Equipment such as digital x-ray and digital ultrasound all allow us to access better quality images in less time.  To you this means less waiting and better medicine.

Our new, up-to-date computer system allows us to store more client and pet information such as test results, pictures, x-rays and lab reports all within the electronic medical history of the patient. This information can also be shared with the client within the exam room! While this is wonderful for doctors to provide a better service and treatment for our patients, these all come with a large cost to us for providing this overall exceptional and quality experience.

Another issue is the rising cost and availability of medications, which make it frustrating for us and our clients. The FDA has shut down many drug companies due to violations with their process, which has caused the cost of some medications to increase in price and limited availability. We try to keep our prices affordable.

Our doctors and technicians went to school and are licensed to practice. To keep their license, they must attend continuing educational seminars and meetings, requiring them to learn new techniques, procedures for treating various conditions and diseases. We are constantly learning and training our support staff of assistants, and receptionists on new treatments and products to keep our clients informed.

All of this comes with a price. We strive to provide the highest, most cost effective veterinary medicine to our clients and their pets.  "We place a higher value on the health of the pet, whereas most low cost, spay-neuter clinics don't meet the standard of care." Dr. Scott Tritsch

Making a Disaster Plan for Your Pet

Making a Disaster Plan for Your Pet

When natural disasters occur having a plan for your pet(s) can make a difference. Have a safe place where both you and your pet(s) can go if you have to evacuate. Below are several things to do to prepare.


Make sure your pet has some type of ID (microchip or tag). Also have a current photo of your pet(s) in case they become lost.

Have enough non-perishable food and water for 3-5 days. Food needs to be kept in an air and water tight container.

Medications need to also be in an air and water tight container for 3-5 days. Make sure the directions are written down for someone else to read.

First Aid kit for your pet. This should include cotton bandage rolls, bandaging tape, scissors, first aid cream, alcohol, saline and gloves.

Have available extra trash bags, paper towels and gloves to clean up your pet's waste material. You may also want to have some household bleach available for disinfecting.

A carrier for your pet.  Some pets feel more secure in a carrier and there is less chance of them escaping.  Also have leashes, collars or harnesses available.

For more information go to HYPERLINK "http://www.ready.gov", www.ready.gov, or humanesociety.org.

What is Parvovirus

What is Parvovirus?

Canine parvovirus is a highly contagious viral disease that can produce a life-threatening illness.

The virus rapidly attacks your dog's system, severely affecting the intestinal tract, along with attacking white blood cells and other parts of the system. In young puppies it can damage the heart muscles and cause the animal a life time of heart issues.

Symptoms of Parvovirus:

Lethargy

Vomiting

Foul-smelling and/or bloody diarrhea

Loss of appetite

How is Parvovirus transmitted?

Parvovirus is highly contagious and can be transmitted by any animal, person or object that come in contact with the infected dog feces. It is a highly resistant virus and can live in the environment for months. It can live on items like food bowls, blankets, shoes, clothes, carpets, floors and in the soil. 

NOTE: It is not veterinary recommended to purchase vaccination from anywhere but a veterinary clinic, many times during transport of vaccinations they are not stored at proper temperature causing the vaccine to become ineffective.

How can Parvovirus be prevented?

The easiest way to prevent Parvovirus is to keep your dog up to date on vaccination.  Adults should be vaccinated yearly and puppies are recommended a 4 set series of shots with the last one being given after 16 weeks of age.

Because the virus can live in the environment for so long you should take extra care to make sure that your dog is up to date on the parvovirus vaccination before taking them to an unfamiliar area.

Treating Parvovirus:

Parvovirus can be very expensive to treat because there aren't any drugs that actually kill the parvovirus.  Treatment is usually very aggressive and straight forward. the patient is usually hospitalized and treated with antibiotics, drugs to control vomiting and diarrhea, IV fluids and vitamins.

In some severe cases the dog may need to be given a blood transfusion, blood serum or antibodies.

For more information:  http://m.petmd/dog/conditons/infectious-parasitic/c dg canine parvovirus infection.

By: Tracy Frost, LVT

Rabies is Preventable

Rabies is a preventable viral disease that can affect humans and animals.  In animals once gotten the disease is fatal.

Rabies is spread in this area mostly by bats or skunks; however any warm blooded mammal can contract rabies.  This includes our precious companion animal.  Because of this you should never touch or handle a bat, skunk, or any other wild animal and you should have your pets vaccinated against rabies by a licensed veterinarian.  The vaccine is given every 1 – 3 years depending on the type of vaccine used and the laws of the state and county.  

Rabies causes acute encephalitis.  In animals the first sign of rabies may be non- specific and include lethargy, fever, vomiting and anorexia.  The signs will progress within days to cerebral dysfunction, cranial nerve dysfunction, ataxia, abnormal behavior, aggression, self- mutilation and eventually death.

If you or your pet are bitten by a stray animal, wild animal or a bat you should immediately wash the area with soap and water.  Then you should contact your doctor or veterinarian and health department, they can guided you with what to do next.

For more information about rabies you can go to  HYPERLINK "http://www.cdc.gov/rabies/" http://www.cdc.gov/rabies/ or you can contact us with any questions you may have about your pets.

Blueberry Doggy Cheesecake

Blueberry Doggy Cheesecake

Ingredients:

2 cups pureed blueberries

8 ouches cream cheese at room temperature

1/2 cup oatmeal

2 cups whole wheat flour 

1 teaspoom valilla extract

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Puree blueberries and mix with cream cheese. Add other ingredients and knead until dough is formed. On floured surface, roll sought to 1/4" thickness

and cut into chaps using a cookie cutter of your choice. Place the treats on a greased cookie sheet and bake 15-20 minutes.

Cool and refrigerate.

10 Things We Want Clients to Know

• Heartworm prevention should be given year round.

• We have a pet crematory on site.

• Do not give human medication to your pet without consulting your veterinarian.

• If a product says not to use it on cats, then do not use it.

• We are available 24 hours a day for emergency care. 

• Veterinary medicine is expensive and specialized.

• We offer chemotherapy.

• Internet pharmacies may not be as they appear.

• Over 60% of pets are obese

• The mouth is a gateway for diseases.

Thinking of getting a new dog?

Always research the dog breed before adding one as a new pet to your family. 
There are many different breeds of dogs, from fluffy and small to huge and protective. Often, people see an adorable puppy and without thinking they bring it home without any background or research of the breed. A high percentage of these puppies end up in a shelter because either the dog wasn't a good fit in personality or the health care cost doesn't fit into the budget. And please note, it is not the dog's fault if the owner has not done their homework on dog training! So, here are some things to think about when looking for a pet.

1. The larger the dog the higher the cost of food and health care
2. Breed personality: does it do well with children and other pets?
3. Does it need lots of exercise, or is it good for apartment life?
4. Common breed health issues
5, Grooming costs
6. Does it need a fence? (The answer is most likely yes)
7 What is the average lifespan?
8. Do you have time to train a puppy or is an adult dog a better fit for you?

Resource: AKC.com

by Tracy Frost

Freezing Canine Semen

We are a Canine Freezing Center for Synbiotics Corporation.  Dr. Tritsch can collect the semen from a stud dog.  The semen is then evaluated, frozen and stored for later shipment to anywhere in the world.  

Once the semen is collected it is evaluated for motility and morphology and the sperm are counted.  The semen is then cooled and frozen in individually labeled straws. The entire process takes 4-5 hours.  The semen is stored in liquid nitrogen, which keeps the semen viable for an indefinite period of time.  

Freezing Semen can help the owner preserve the qualities of a stud dog long after the dog has pasted away.

WHAT TO DO IF YOUR PET IS POISONED

Don't panic. Rapid response is important, but panicking can interfere with the process of helping your pet.

Take 30 to 60 seconds to safely collect and have at hand any material involved. This may be of great benefit to your vet and/or APCC toxicologists, as they determine what poison or poisons are involved. In the event that you need to take your pet to a local veterinarian, be sure to take the product's container with you. Also, collect in a sealable plastic bag any material your pet may have vomited or chewed.

If you witness your pet consuming material that you suspect might be toxic, do not hesitate to seek emergency assistance, even if you do not notice any adverse effects. Sometimes, even if poisoned, an animal may appear normal for several hours or for days after the incident.

Call the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center

The telephone number is (888) 426-4435. There is a $65 consultation fee for this service.

Be ready with the following information:

• The species, breed, age, sex, weight and number of animals involved.
• The animal's symptoms.
• Information regarding the exposure, including the agent (if known), the amount of the agent involved and the time elapsed since the time of exposure.
• Have the product container/packaging available for reference.

Please note: If your animal is having seizures, losing consciousness, is unconscious or is having difficulty breathing, telephone ahead and bring your pet immediately to your local veterinarian or emergency veterinary clinic. If necessary, he or she may call the APCC.

Be Prepared

Keep the telephone number of the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center—(888) 426-4435—as well as that of your local veterinarian, in a prominent location.

Invest in an emergency first-aid kit for your pet. The kit should contain:

• A fresh bottle of hydrogen peroxide, 3 percent USP (to induce vomiting)
• A turkey baster, bulb syringe or large medicine syringe (to administer peroxide)
• Saline eye solution
• Artificial tear gel (to lubricate eyes after flushing)
• Mild grease-cutting dishwashing liquid (for bathing an animal after skin contamination)
• Forceps (to remove stingers)
• A muzzle (to protect against fear- or excitement-induced biting)
• A can of your pet's favorite wet food
• A pet carrier

Always consult a veterinarian or the APCC for directions on how and when to use any emergency first-aid item.

*P.S. Visit the ASPCA Store to purchase the ASPCA First Aid Kit!

PUPPY TRAINING

PUPPY TRAINING

Spending time exercising and socializing your puppy is one of the most important gifts you can tie to your new family member.

Lack of socialization is a common cause of behavior problems later in life.  Some good ways to insure a well rounded, socialized puppy many include puppy classes, which not only teach obedience, but introduce your puppy to other dogs and people.  Go for car rides, run the vacuum cleaner, give your puppy a bath, or go out to meet your neighbors.

Exercise and mental stimulation are also very important to raising a well rounded puppy. Playtime with your puppy is great bonding time, and gives your puppy a chance to learn how the world works. Many unwanted behaviors can be linked to inadequate exercise and mental stimulation.  Provide safe, interactive toys for your puppy to play with.

Your puppy will also need to experience some alone time.  Time to rest and time to play on their own.  This will aid in the prevention of developing separation anxiety. 

Another very important aspect for you new puppy is potty training.  With patience, your puppy will develop good bathroom habits.  Remember that your puppy will learn best with a consistent routine and positive reinforcement.  Using a crate can help ease the potty training process.  It is important to know that a crate is not a place of punishment; it is meant to be a safe haven for your puppy.

Owning a new puppy is a big learning curve. Most importantly, have lots of fun together. Set your puppy up for success by making the process fun and positive.

Enjoy your time with your puppy and remember he is learning every day and you are his best teacher.

Jane Bishop, VT

Your medicine cabinet is not your pet's medicine cabinet!

by: Erin Bergen, LVT

Your medicine cabinet is not your pet's medicine cabinet!  

One of the most common questions that I am asked by clients is what can they give their pet for pain at home. We have all been there...Fido comes home from the dog park after a good romp a little sore and we don't like to see our friend hurting.  The most common NSAIDs (non steroidal anti inflammatory drugs) that we would take for the same ailment would be Tylenol (acetaminophen), Aleve (naproxen), Motrin (ibuprofen) or aspirin.   What is ok to give?  It is important to understand that dogs and cats do not metabolize medications the same, do not metabolize all medications like humans do and require different dosages.  NSAIDs are no exception.  acetaminophen, naproxen and ibuprofen can be dangerous.  They cant "take two and call us in the morning"!  The most common effects of these medications in our companion animals are adverse reactions in the kidney, liver and digestive tract.  Clinical signs consist of cyanosis (turning blue), respiratory distress, swelling of the face and paws, vomiting, hyperthermia and depression. In worst case scenarios, the kidneys and liver can go into failure resulting in death if not treated or not treated quickly.  In dogs, clinical signs can occur within 4-12 hours and death can occur within 2-6 days as a result of kidney and liver failure.  Cats can be more sensitive to these medications than dogs.  In the clinic we would treat these cases with aggressive supportive care consisting mainly of fluid therapy and a healthy dose of activated charcoal as soon as possible to minimize absorption of these medications into the animal's system.  Time is very important in successful treatment!  So, what can you give at home for those occasional soreness issues?  The best recommendation would be to give us a call and if we have given your pet a recent physical exam we may be able to dispense medication that is formulated for cats or dogs that will be safe for them.  Sometimes, you may also be able to give your dog ( not your cat!) aspirin.  Aspirin should be given with a meal to decrease the risk of stomach upset and should be given sparingly but at the dose of 1mg per pound it can be used occasionally.  For more consistent problems call us and we can help get your pet on a long term pain management plan.  As our regular clients know, you can always call us and ask questions but listed below are also some helpful resources for you.

Poison Hotline. 1-800-213-6680. www.poisonhotline.com 

    (for annual members of Homeagain the poison control hotline is free, please visit

         www.homeagain.com for more information)

www.petpoisonhelpline.com

Remember, what is good for the human is not always good for the companion animal!  At Central Kentucky Veterinary Center we want your furry friends to be happy and healthy!  So if they are having trouble give us a call and let us help!  

The Importance of Microchipping Your Pet

The Importance of Microchipping Your Pet

by Heather Goodlett

Being a receptionist, I receive many phone calls a week from frantic clients that have lost their pets. The pets that are lucky enough to be found have usually been taken to a local shelter or Humane Society.

When a new animal comes to our clinic, one of the first things we do is to scan for a microchip.  When scanned, if the animal has a chip, a number will come up which is specific to your pet. This chip allows many pets to be reunited with their owners.

The procedure is a small injection in the back of the neck, best performed during the initial vet visit. Information such as address or phone numbers can be changed when needed through the company. 

Microchipping is a small price to pay for something as rewarding as finding your beloved pet. For more information such as pricing, or to schedule an appointment, contact CKVC today!

Seasonal Allergies

Seasonal Allergies

Written by Dr. Scott Weakley

It’s that time of year again, the peak time for seasonal allergies in dogs.  From the first part of August until about 2 weeks after a killing frost in October, we will see lots of dogs suffering from allergies.  The culprits are plants such as ragweed and crabgrass that produce pollens that your dog can be allergic to.  Fleas can make the allergy season much worse.
Dogs that have allergies to airborne allergens will usually have itchy ears, lick or chew their feet, and rub their faces on the carpet or with their paws.  Inhalant allergy, also known as atopy, can make your dog miserable and can lead to secondary bacterial or fungal infections of the skin and ears.
Treatments to help your dog include frequent bathing in gentle shampoos, fatty acid supplements, antihistamine, and frequently corticosteroids.  Flea prevention or treatment is also important.  Any secondary infections have to be treated also.
  Call us for an appointment to help your dog if he or she is experiencing symptoms of allergies.

The Importance of Year Round Heartworm and Flea Prevention in the Dog

The importance of year round heartworm and flea prevention in the dog.

Heartworm disease is a potentially fatal condition caused by the presence of parasitic worms in the arteries of the lungs and heart of dogs.  These worms or Microfilaria are passed from one infected dog to another by Mosquitos.  The most common clinical signs are cough and exercise intolerance.  This disease will infect 100% of the dogs exposed to it that are not on a monthly preventative.  But some may ask "if its transmitted through Mosquitos can monthly prevention be skipped during the winter months when Mosquitos are not active?" The answer in my option is no.  Mosquitos have very short life cycles that are dependent on weather conditions.  They are less active in temperatures below 50 degrees but mosquito eggs do not die in cold weather.  The eggs simply hibernate and when the weather conditions are ideal they will hatch no matter the time of year.  We have all experienced Kentucky's fickle winters, Freezing one day, balmy the next.  Mosquitos can complete their life cycle in a little as 4 days (AMCA) and be out feeding off your canine companion.  So, it is a huge risk to only use heartworm prevention in the warmer months in this area of the country.  No one wants to lose their best friend to a disease that is one of the easiest to prevent.  Heartworm prevention comes in the form of once monthly (most times chewable) tablets that can be purchased from your veterinarian.  Please be aware that the vet needs to have proof of a recent negative heartworm test in order to dispense prevention. There is the risk of complications with preventatives if the dog is heartworm positive.  Today heartworm prevention has also evolved to having other benefits.  Heartworm prevention products also treat intestinal parasites such as hookworms, roundworms and in some cases whipworms.  Today heartworm prevention can have a third face to it with added flea prevention.  All in a once monthly pill!  Fleas, like Mosquitos are weather sensitive and can exist in the environment in this area of the country even durning the winter months if conditions are right.  Unlike Mosquitos, fleas will thrive inside during the winter so if you have battled fleas all summer and think a reprieve will come in the winter...it won't!  The safest, efficient and cost effective method to prevent heartworm disease, intestinal parasites and fleas is by prevention before a problem even exists.  1 pill a month is nothing compared to your dogs possible discomfort or death as a result of these parasites!

by: Erin Bergen, LVT

http://www.heartwormsociety.org/download/Incidence-Map-2010.pdf

Improper Eliminatin: Thinking inside the box to solve problems outside the box

By Kevin Fuller, DVM

Urinating outside of the litter box, or improper elimination is one of the leading causes for pet owners to relinquissh their cats to local shelters.  While this may be a frustrating problem.  Medical therapy is not always needed, but if there is ever blood in the urine, or straining to urinate, contact your local veterinarian.

One of the first steps

Canine Blood Donation Program

We have a canine blood donation program.  Dogs that we have selected have been blood typed.  These dogs are current on their vaccinations and previous to entering the program where given an exam, blood chemistries and a complete blood count were done and they tested negative for heartworm disease.  Blood donors can donate as often as every 6 weeks and generally give 400-450mls of blood.  The blood in stored in the refrigerator for up to 28 days.  When one of our patients needs a transfusion we are able to use the blood we have stored.  Blood transfusions may be given to patients who are having a major surgery, for anemia or decreased platelet count.

Upper Respiratory Infection (URI)

  
                                                    By Tammy, LVT

All cats are at risk of Upper Respiratory Infection (URI), especially the young and unvaccinated cats.  The most common cause of URI is Feline Herpes Virus.  Cats that are stressed are more suseptable to catching the virus or having a reactivation of the virus.  This virus is very

Heartworm Disease Is Preventable

   

Heartworm Disease

            Heartworm disease (dirofilariasis) is a serious and potentially fatal disease in dogs.  It is caused by a blood- borne parasite called Dirofilaria Immitis.

            Heartworms live in the heart and pulmonary arteries of infected dogs.  They can live up to 5 years, producing millions of offspring (microfilaria).  These microfilariae live

Common Pet Poisonings

By Tammy, LVT

   There are many things in our homes that can be toxic to our pets.  Some of these items are safe for us, so we don't always think of them being harmful to our pets. 

    Here are a few of the more common poisons

Homemade Treat Recipes

By Amy, LVT

Using canned food:
   1. Shake the loaf of food out of the can.
   2. Cut the loaf into 1/4 - inch thick slices, then divide each
           slice into bite - size pieces.
   3. Microwave treats on high for 2 1/2 to 3 minutes.  If using
           a conventional oven, place bite - sized pieces on an
           ungreased cookie sheet and bake at 350 for 30 minutes
           or until crispy.

Using dry food:
    1. In a blender, grind 2 cups of dry food into a powder.
    2. Pour powder into a mixing bowl, and gradually add 1 to 1 1/4 cups
           of water.
    3. Shape into individual "cookie," and flatten the dough with the back of
           a spoon.
           (The dough will not flatten like it does with standard "people cookies.")
    4. Place the treats on an ungreased cookie sheet, and bake at 350 for 30 minutes
           or until crispy.

Homemade treats should not exceed 10% of the pet's total daily intake because heat alters the nutritional characteristics of the food.  Baked treats should be stored in the refrigerator, never frozen.  Discard leftovers after 5 to 7 days.

This recipe may be used with any Hill's Prescription Diet pet food except Canine and Feline a/d, and Canine n/d and s/d.  In these cases, the canned food can be rolled into balls and placed in the freezer to serve as a frozen treat.
              

Are Dentals For Your Pets Important?

By Tammy, LVT

    Just like in humans dental care for our pets is important.  Dental disease is the most common health problem in dogs and cats affecting 78% of dogs and 68% of cats.


    Your pet's teeth should be examined once a year by your veterinarian.  Tartar buildup is mineral deposits on the tooth from unremoved food particles on your pet's teeth.  It can cause gums to be red, swollen and painful.  Infection in the mouth can lead to infection in the pancreas, liver, kidneys and other vital organs.

    If your pet has prolonged dental disease it can cause gums to recede, root exposure and possible tooth loss.  A dental cleaning should be done when there is a mild amount of tartar on the teeth.  Once the teeth are cleaned, home care will decrease dental cleanings in the future.  We recommend at home brushing, OraVet or Hills Prescription T/D food to decrease plaque and tartar build up.                 
       For more information about dental cleanings or products please contact our office.                                                           

New Advances In Weight Loss

Obesity affects over 80% of the pet population!

Obesity can cause your pet to live a shorter life.  Even being a few pounds overweight cat increase your pet's risk of serous diseases like diabetes, osteoarthritis, cardiovascular and respiratory disease.  In order for you pets to lose weight they must consume 30% less calories than what is required for its ideal weight.  To obtain your pet's ideal weight contract your veterinarian.

It can be very challenging to get your pet to lose weight.  Many of you in the past have tried feeding foods that are suppose to help your pet lose weight, only to have them not work.  Some of the foods require you to feed a very small amount, only to have your beloved pet look at you with sad and begging eyes.  Knowing that they are still hungry you give in, only to have this plan fail also.

Hills pet food company has developed a new diet that has a synergistic blend of natural ingredients that helps pets lose weight.  The ingredients include carrots, tomato pomace, flax seed and coconut oil.  This special combination of ingredient speed up your pet's metabolism, while allowing them to still feel full.  When fed over 2 months dogs lost 28% body fat and cats lost 29% body fat.  This new diet, Metabolic Advanced Weight  Solutions, is not only a weight loss product,  but also supports lean muscle and the prevention of regain in the maintenance phase.  Once your pet is on this food there is no need to switch to another food once the weight is lost.  metabolic comes in dry, canned and treats for both dogs and cats.

If Metabolic Advanced Weight Solutions will help your pet please contact us for more information.