Thursday, February 14, 2013

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.
              

Friday, February 1, 2013

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.