Don't Delay Pet Care While You Surf For Answers

Technology Can Jeopardize Pet's Health

"Get(ting) Dr. Google's Opinion" is Nancy Kay's perspective of the electronic pet care owners are providing for their beloved pets.  Kay, a veterinarian and author of Speaking for Spot, believes that technology jeopardizes pet health when owners turn to it for solutions to resolve their pet's symptoms.  Too often, necessary treatment is delayed and this increases chances of death. Connect with your family veterinarian before you plug into the Net.  It's critical to: Relieve pain Reduce discomfort Accurately diagnose your pet's symptoms Create an appropriate treatment plan Talk with your veterinarian during your next visit.  Always have your veterinarian confirm what you learn via Internet.  If technology is important to you let your family vet know so they can support your use of gadgets - and continue to provide great care for your pet!

The World Wide Web has opened up communication opportunities between veterinarians and pet owners.  Convenient hand held devices allow pet owners with Web connections to scan, surf, text and email to their heart's content at any hour of the day.  Or night.  You might think this is convenient for pet owners, brings fast results for pets, is easier on your budget than office visits, and is a smart use of available resources.  But is it?  Think again.
Emailing and texting veterinarians with questions that are pertinent to a pet can be a good thing when the communications are between you and your own family veterinarian.  When your family veterinarian is involved that means more information is involved:  your pet's past health history, habits, activity levels, behaviors and several prior lab reports.  More information can provide alternatives, choices and additional treatment measures.
Unfortunately, pet owners are more often using the Internet to find information to identify, heal, or cure their pet's symptoms.  The symptoms, to those not trained in helping pets maintain their health and wellness, may seem minor.  In fact, owners researching solutions via Internet for their pet's emergencies, injuries and ailments can instead be compromising their health.
"Responsibly surfing (the Web) is fabulous," says Nancy Kay, veterinarian and author of Speaking for Spot.  But that "does not take the place of a call or visit to your veterinarian," she reminds pet owners.
"The American Veterinary Medical Association (AMVA) saw veterinary visits decline by 21 percent for dogs and by 30 percent for cats," says veterinarian W. Ron DeHaven and AMVA executive vice president.
"Get(ting) Dr. Google's Opinion" is Kay's perspective of the electronic pet care owners are providing for their beloved pets.  Choosing to use the technology owners keep handy is frequently delaying the necessary treatment an ailing pet requires to relieve discomfort or pain, restore its health, or even save its life.
"The biggest thing I see is an increased rate of euthanasia and much sicker animals than I've ever seen, meaning people are waiting longer," says veterinarian Julie Kittams. 
Marty Becker, veterinarian and author of Your Dog:  The Owner's Manual, calls the phenomenon "Vets vs. Net."  A good veterinarian can quickly and fairly cheaply address many conditions that make a dog or cat miserable, Becker says.  Owners with an itchy-pawed dog chose to let their pet lick and chew constantly for six years before they checked with a veterinarian.  What they believed to be allergies was a "carpet of yeast and staph in his feet."  Appropriate medications eliminated the itching within 48 hours.
A comatose dog in Becker's clinic couldn't be saved after its owners concluded non-stop vomiting was caused by a minor upset stomach.  The piece of carpeting he'd swallowed without their knowledge became lodged in his intestine, causing a rupture and pus-filled abdomen.  "Sometimes hours or minutes matter," Becker says.
Don't delay with technology!  Ask your veterinarian to confirm information you learn via Internet.  Check in quickly with your family veterinarian when your pet's health changes - you could save your pet's life.
Sources:

American Veterinary Medical Association (AMVA).
Balas, Monique. Sick pets put owners in financial bind.
Becker, Marty, DVM. Your Dog: The owner's manual.
Kay, Nancy. Speaking for Spot.
Peters, Sharon L. Dr. Google not always best when pets are ill.
Portland Veterinary Medical Association.

What is an Emergency?

Signs That Usually Do Not Need ER Care

Symptoms that should be seen by a doctor, but not necessarily in an emergency setting include: Itchiness is a common problem, but does not usually need immediate care.  The pet should be seen soon though as it is amazing how fast they can lick or scratch enough to set up an infection in the skin. Reverse sneeze is a common problem, and many dogs are presented at emergency clinics because owners think they're having an asthma attack.  With reverse sneeze, the dog forcefully brings air into his nostrils.  It is usually loud and sounds terrible, but veterinarians aren't too worried about these as long as there is no nasal discharge.  You can see what reverse sneeze looks like by viewing examples on YouTube. Any pet with diarrhea certainly should be examined but it does not need to be in the emergency setting as long as the pet is bright, alert, and eating well. Small wounds can probably wait for your regular doctor, although you should know that dog bite wounds can have small skin openings, but have large areas of tissue damage under the skin.

 We all become worried when our beloved pets become ill, but when should we take them to an emergency hospital?  Most larger communities have an ER for pets, but when do we need to utilize one?  What symptoms are serious and need immediate attention, and what can wait until the next day for your regular doctor? The following list will help you decide. 
1.    Almost any problem involving the eye should be seen right away.  Glaucoma, corneal ulcers, and foreign bodies beneath the eyelids are common eye diseases where waiting could make the problem worse.
2.    Profuse vomiting is another sign that needs immediate attention. Vomiting has many causes.  A common reason, though, is an intestinal obstruction since pets love to eat so many weird things!  If this occurs, the pet can die in a matter of hours, so an ER trip is warranted.
3.    Difficulty breathing is also a problem that should not wait.  This symptom again has many causes but almost all need immediate attention.  Difficulty breathing may be a severe cough, but more commonly it is exaggerated effort in breathing, with pets often using their abdominal muscles to help them breathe.  At first people may not notice their pet is having difficulty, but they may note that their pet does not want to lie down.
4.    If there is active hemorrhage, of course, the pet needs to be seen by a veterinarian right away.  If there is a small wound with just a few drops of blood, it is probably OK to wait for your regular veterinarian.
5.    If your pet suddenly can't use its back legs, is dragging its rear legs, or is unable to get up, this is a reason for an emergency trip.  This is a common problem, especially in Dachshunds, and emergency surgery may be needed to save the spinal cord.  For the best outcome in these cases, time is of the essence.
6.    If your pet has its first seizure, it should be examined immediately.  Seizures are just a symptom, they have many causes, and they should be checked without delay.  The pet should be monitored closely for the next several hours as another seizure may occur.  If your pet has had seizures before, has been diagnosed with epilepsy, is on medication, and has another seizure, it may not need to visit the ER each time it has a seizure,  but if a seizure lasts more than a couple minutes, or there are clusters of seizures, then a trip to the ER is warranted.
7.    If your pet ingests a toxin, they should be taken to the emergency hospital as soon as possible.  The doctor may induce vomiting to try to eliminate some of the toxin, so time is important.  If there is even a possibility the pet ingested antifreeze, it is important to get to the ER immediately.  There is a test to determine if they did drink any of the poison, and the antidote needs to be given within a couple of hours.
8.    If your pet is pregnant, and is having difficulty having the babies, it should see the emergency veterinarian.  This problem is called a dystocia and an emergency caesarean section maybe needed.  Veterinarians advise that a puppy or kitten should be born within two hours of the mother starting active labor, and there should be no more than one hour between puppies or kittens.  But, if you see a baby stuck in the birth canal, take them to an ER right away.
Of course, there are many other problems that pets can have. Dogs and cats can get into some very odd predicaments that may also use ER care.  The dog that gets a tin can stuck to its tongue, or the bone lodged around its lower jaw, does not have a true emergency, but they sure will be happier if they can get them removed as soon as possible!
If you need advice on whether your pet's symptoms should have immediate attention, call the Emergency Hospital for advice. They will be happy to discuss your pet and their problem.

Family Friends Aren't Always Furry - Think of Feathery Friends!

Your home may be one of the many households enjoying a bird as a pet. The American Veterinary Medical Association estimates that birds, though not nearly as popular with Americans as cats or dogs, reside in 4.5 million households. Birds aren't always the first pet that comes to mind for children requesting that perfect pet from their parents, and parents should be wary of letting children handle birds as they are easily injured and do frequently bite.
What is it about birds that make them good household pets?  Friends of a Different Feather by Michelle Sathe indicates that there are positives to pet bird households.  When you want to add a  pet to your family and think you'll enjoy a feathered friend, remember to check with your nearby veterinarian for recommendations, adoption opportunities and guidelines for wellness and good health.
Size
Birds are available in many sizes.  The size of your new pet should be appropriate to the size of your home and the space you have available for it.  Your bird choice can be a big parrot or a tiny canary - and everything in between.  Birds have various life expectancies.  Generally, the larger the bird the longer it will probably live.   Large birds of the parrot family can have a life expectancy as long as a human. 
Maintenance
Your pet bird will need care, though you won't be out for a walk like your neighbors who have dogs.  Your bird will require a cage and space that is free from debris, feces and trash.  It will need a cage-cleaning on a regular basis.  Your bird will have specific nutrition needs. Veterinarian Marlene Anschultz advises that each bird species requires its own special diet and maintenance.  You'll want to establish a relationship with your local veterinarian and have regular checkups and nutrition support.
HealthBirds can be vulnerable to certain illnesses, viruses or diseases like other pets.  Your veterinarian will help you learn how to care for the bird species you select.
Remember that larger birds can have longer lives.  Dr. Anschultz also advises that "small birds are social among each other and are better off in an aviary, so you can get two or three of them and put them in an enclosure.  Bigger birds, such as parrots, need constant affection, attention and holding."
She admits that some people find birds irritating, disturbing or unpleasant.  These people are not willing to enjoy life with a pet bird.  Other people get enjoyment from birds and realize that birds can provide companionship, make you laugh and make your family smile with delight.  "Some birds cackle along with your jokes and make fun of you afterward," she says.  "They can be real characters."

Creating A Pet Friendly Yard

Yards can be a shopping center or candy store for pets.  Pets often find materials that will harm them.  Sometimes objects are forgotten by good intentioned owners.  Other times, pets make their own mischief.  It is important to ensure that your yard is secure, well maintained, and free of debris, trash and toxic substances.
Creating a pet friendly yard is necessary for your pet's safety and well being.  Your budget will thank you for taking the extra effort to patrol your yard from your pet's perspective looking for enticing tidbits that could unknowingly play havoc with their delicate bodies.
Plants "More than 700 plants have been identified as producing physiologically active or toxic substances in sufficient amounts to cause harmful effects in animals," advises the Humane Society of the United States.  "Poisonous plants produce a variety of toxic substances and cause reactions ranging from mild nausea to death.  Certain animal species may have a peculiar vulnerability to a potentially poisonous plant."
Plants, trees, and shrubs of all shapes and sizes have the potential to be toxic to pets.  Animal bodies can be sensitive and each pet will react differently to ingested materials.  When planning your backyard planting projects consider safe alternatives to favorites that could harm Fido or Fluffy.
How to Grow a Beautiful, Yet Dog-Safe Garden by geriatric veterinarian Ellen Friedman suggests eliminating foxglove, monkshood or aconitum, lily of the valley, snowball bush (hydrangea buds), and tobacco plant.  Pet reactions to ingesting these substances can include irregular heartbeats, nausea, convulsions and seizures.
Bees and Wasps Eliminate or screen around low ground covers, shrubs or plants that attract bees and wasps.  Pets interested in the pollen gathering activities can get stung.
Compost Bin "Fence off your compost bin," advises Friedman.  "Decaying vegetable matter can send poochy to the vet with a raging upset stomach."
Gates and Fences Make certain all boundary materials are in good repair:  eliminate protruding nails, chipped or peeling paint, and gaps that allow or encourage escape.
Grass Cut your grass often.  Keep it watered to reduce dust and pests.  Remember to rake or use the yard vacuum to pick up cuttings.  If you must apply fertilizers and weed killers do so while pets are confined or visiting elsewhere.  Always follow the instructions to ensure that treated grass is safe for your pet.  Store fertilizers, weed killers, yard and gardening equipment out of reach and away from accessible play areas.  Maintain a strict weed removal program since weeds can cause a variety of nasty fanny problems for pets that must potty in them.
Pools, Tubs and Spas Immediately fence or screen these areas.  Not all pets are able to swim and those that are may still become trapped under the covers intended as energy savers.
Yard Care Items Tools, equipment, pesticides, fertilizers, weed treatments, repair and building supplies must be securely stored.  Remember that anything sharp - no matter its size -- needs to be secured.  Glass, plastic, wood, or metal can have edges that could easily slice tender pet skin and paws.  Always keep them out of reach of your pets.  Curious or bored animals can create their own entertainment.  Proper storage gives them less opportunity to get hurt.
Your family veterinarian can provide you with additional suggestions when you share photos of your yard during visits.  Walk out your door or through your gate and make your yard pet friendly.  Your pet will love you for it!

Make Your House Pet Friendly

Keeping your house pet friendly is critical to the health and wellness of your pets.  Just what does pet friendly mean?  A pet friendly house is a sheltered location for an animal to live, play and relax that is clean, safe, free from hazards and toxic materials.  Most pets share house space with their owner.  Household items used in a house by an owner are available to the pets.  Many of these materials used by owners can be unsafe or deadly to pets.
"Properly storing and locking up hazardous items is the first step to preventing accidental poisonings," advises Janet Tobiassen Crosby, DVM in Common Household Poisons.  If you haven't made your house pet friendly, do it now.  It will be easiest to move from one room to another checking closets, cabinets, boxes, shelves, and drawers.  Yes, drawers - adept, curious pets can easily get into them!
 
"Not only can a poisoning incident be life-threatening for the pet, it's traumatic for the pet owner," said Carol McConnell, DVM, vice president and chief veterinary medical officer for Veterinary Pet Insurance.  "We recommend that pet owners be aware of which items around their homes can be harmful to their pets-medications, insect poisons, chocolate and certain nuts-and keep these items safely out of reach.  They shouldn't assume that their pets will ignore that bottle of bleach in the laundry room or the Philodendron plant by the window.  Our data shows this just isn't so."
It could be a good idea to isolate your pet for a few minutes while you remove and secure substances that can be harmful.  Pets may enjoy chewing through storage containers you consider safe.  Remember that child-proof does not mean pet proof!
Common Household Poisons by veterinarian Janet Tobiassen Crosby suggests properly storing and securing items that can harm your pet.  Ensure that they are stored up high and out of reach of all pets (and children) in your home.  Your pet doesn't know ingesting these items can harm or kill them.
Household Cleaners and Chemicals These items are used to maintain your home, the furnishings, and items in it.  They may be located in your laundry room, kitchen, bathrooms, or garage.  Secure abrasives, soaps, waxes, disinfectants, powders, aerosol and pump sprays, paints, lubricants, bleach, fabric softeners, and water softener supplies.
Flea and Tick Treatments In addition to storing where pets cannot reach or gain access to these items, use only the recommended doses.  Always follow the dosing schedule.
Antifreeze (Ethylene glycol)
Pets can be attracted to this sweet tasting, brightly colored liquid.  "One swallow may be lethal for small animals," Crosby advises.
 
Pest Control Baits and Poisons These are baits you're using to attract pests and they can also attract your pet!  Beware.
Medications "One of the most common household poisons are medications - either discovered by the pet or purposely administered by the owner," Crosby says.  Your veterinarian must guide you with giving any medications to your pets.  Over-the-counter and prescription drugs require authorization from your veterinarian.  "Accidental poisonings, especially from NSAIDs are very common," she says.
Foods and Food Additives Xylitol is an artificial sweetener that can be toxic to animals.  It is often found in foods labeled as "sugar free."  Chocolate, caffeine, raisins, and grapes are known toxins for pets.
Trash Cans "The sheer mix of items in a trash can (may) make a pet owner forget the combined potential hazard," alerts Crosby.  Cleanser containers, food scraps, broken and sharp objects could severely harm a pet who wouldn't usually bother a trash can.  "Make sure your trash is secure."

Creepy, Crawly Critters

 There are many parasites we need be concerned about that can affect our pets. Ticks are one of the most common and frightful. Most people shudder just at the thought of a tick, let alone finding one on their pet or in their house.  Unfortunately, the people who study these things tell us we should expect a large increase in the numbers of ticks.  Global warming and milder winters may be contributing to the surge of ticks, even to areas they may not have populated before.
Ticks are found worldwide, but tend to be found more in areas with warm, humid climates.  They are parasites that attach to mammals, birds, and occasionally reptiles and amphibians, and suck blood from their host.
There are four stages in the tick life cycle; each tick requires three hosts and takes at least one year to complete the cycle.  Each female tick can lay up to 3,000 eggs in the environment. Egg hatches and forms a larva which is very small, the size of a head of a pin, and it attaches usually to a small mammal or bird.  Once it is done feeding, it detaches, and molts in the environment to the next stage, the nymph.  The nymph then finds another, usually larger host to attach to and suck blood.  Once it is done, it detaches, and matures into the adult tick.  Adult ticks then need to find a suitable host.  They climb to the top of long grass, bushes, or other plants, and wait for a dog, cat, deer, cow, or any other animal to brush up against it.   Once on its host, it again bites the skin and feeds by drinking blood. 
There are many different species of ticks, but most, if not all, can carry diseases they can give to their host.  Common tick borne diseases are Lyme disease, Babesia, Ehrlichia, Anaplasmosis, tularemia, and Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever.  All of these diseases can affect dogs, and many can occur in cats, people, and other species.  The eggs can be infected inside the female tick, so even the tiny larval tick can be infectious.
There are some things you can do to try to prevent ticks in your house and yard.  If you live in a more rural area, guinea fowl are great tick exterminators.  Just two birds can clear two acres in one year.  You can reduce the tick habitat by removing the leaf litter and clearing tall grass and brush.  Discourage any wildlife from entering your yard with fences.  If you live near woods, create a three foot wide barrier at the edge of your lawn with wood chips or gravel; ticks can't crawl across this.  You should check your pets daily and remove any ticks you find.
We have three chemicals that we use on pets that will kill ticks, but only one can be used on cats.  Fipronil, found in Frontline, can be used on dogs and cats.  Permethrin  has been used on dogs, but is very toxic to cats, you need to read labels and if it says "for dogs only", do not apply it to a cat as it will likely be lethal.  Amitraz will also kill ticks.  It is available for dogs only, in the form of a collar called Preventic.  This is very effective but you must make sure the dog can't eat the collar.  A new product by Merial called Certifect is a combination of fipronil and a low dose of amitraz.  This is for dogs only, is applied topically once monthly, and is very effective.
You should talk to your veterinarian about the tick diseases in your area.  There is a test kit your veterinarian can use in the clinic that will test for Lyme disease, Anaplasmosis, and Ehrlichia at the same time your dog gets its annual heartworm test.  Your veterinarian can also discuss any treatments or preventatives from which your pet may benefit.

Prevent Incurable Horse Virus

Quick Facts About Eastern Equine Encephalitis Virus (EEEV)

• Horses are particularly susceptible to the virus.
• A sick horse is not a threat to its owner.
• One horse cannot get the infection from another horse.
• A sick horse cannot give the infection to a human or a mosquito.
• The infection is received by mosquitoes that bite birds carrying the virus in their blood.
• Direct physical contact between a horse and a human will not pass the virus.
• The virus is not passed through body fluids.
• Mosquitoes cannot be infected again by biting an infected horse.
• The virus can only be passed by mosquitoes that have eaten from an infected bird.       

Eastern equine encephalitis virus (EEEV) is transmitted by the bite of an infected mosquito, advises the Centers for Disease Control (CDC).  The virus is rare and causes inflammation of the brain called encephalitis.  Animals, especially horses, are vulnerable to this infection.
"All equine cases are the result of mosquitoes which have fed on infected birds and then feed on unvaccinated horses, " advises Wayne Crans, Entomology Research Professor in Questions Regarding Eastern Equine Encephalitis and Horses.  Horses are increasingly susceptible to the EEEV infection.  The virus involved attacks the horse's central nervous system.  "Onset is abrupt and horse cases are almost always fatal," he says.
Symptoms evident in horses infected with the virus include marked loss of coordination, unsteadiness and erratic behavior.  Other signs to be aware of in horses are loss of appetite, drooping eyelids and lower lip, depression, blindness, aimless wandering and circling, and occasional paralysis.  The treatment that may be provided by your veterinarian or emergency animal hospital is typically ineffective.  Crans reports that after the first indications of illness in an animal "seizures resulting in death usually occur within 48 to 72 hours."
"The greater the number of infected mosquitoes, the greater the risk," says Dr. Alfred DeMaria, Wisconsin's top disease tracker," so preventing mosquito bites becomes even more important."  Protecting yourself and your horse can be enhanced by following the suggestions made by the CDC and the Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection.

▪ Provide nighttime shelter for horses from hungry mosquitoes by housing them in a barn.
▪ Wash out horse troughs frequently to reduce the breeding of mosquitoes near paddock areas.
▪ Eliminate sources of standing water.
▪ Wear protective clothing.
▪ Use insect repellent on exposed skin or clothing when outdoors especially those that contain DEET, picaridin, IR3535 or oil of lemon eucalyptus.
▪ Reduce or avoid outdoor activities between dusk and dawn when mosquitoes are most active.

Crans urges that vaccinations be provided to horses by only licensed veterinarians to ensure that their protection is effective.  Infected horses are often found to have been "improperly vaccinated or (were) vaccinated with vaccine that had lost its protective properties."
The vaccinations when properly given are only effective for one year.  Annual booster shots are required.  Animals receiving their first vaccination will require a two-shot series to guarantee that their protection is adequate.
Humans that are infected with EEEV may not have any apparent illness or symptoms.  Cases that are classified as severe "begin with the sudden onset of headache, high fever, chills, and vomiting.  The illness may then progress into disorientation, seizures, or coma."  These severe cases involve an inflammatory condition of the brain called encephalitis advises the CDC.
Sources:

Boston Globe. Massachusetts health officials raise risk level for EEE.
 
Center for Disease Control.
Crans, Wayne J. Questions regarding eastern equine encephalitis and horses. Rutgers Cooperative Extension Fact Sheet # FS737.
Merck Veterinary Manual.   

Keep Cats Moving and Grooving

Cat Play Benefits Health
How to Play With Your Cat:  Maximize Your Bond While Improving His Health and Well-Being, suggests specific reasons for cat play, including:

• Practice hunting skills
• Maintain healthy weight
• Release of aggression or negative energy
• Strengthens owner/pet bond
• Builds confidence
• Eases transition to a new home

Do you talk with your veterinarian during visits about ways to help your cat keep moving around your home or yard?  If yes, give yourself a fish-flavored treat.  If no, well, add talking with your doctor to your "priority list."
Your doctor will help you create a home program to ensure exercise and activity that will interest your cat.  Your cat will be entertained and the bond between you will deepen.

Keeping your cat active can help it burn calories and use muscles, tendons and ligaments that may often be seen catnapping. Burning calories is important for your cat. The more your cat moves and exercises, the more calories it will expend during the activity. Exercise will help to off-set the naps taken in your favorite chair and help to prevent obesity.
Exercise methods your doctor recommends will depend on your cat's current level of activity, health, age and medical condition.  Indoor cats probably need more encouragement and support with exercise.  You'll want to consider several methods to get your cat moving and grooving.  Then, you'll want to shake up the sequence when you play.
Pet Weight Loss by veterinarian Jan Becker discusses pet exercise for owners of cats and dogs.  "Cats on the other hand can be a bit harder to exercise," says Dr. Becker.  Get your cats moving with cold laser lights flashed onto objects to interest them - but not in their eyes.  Wiggle stuffed animals, move them sneakily to get your cat's interest and increase the attraction of pouncing, sneaking, hiding or batting at the soft toy.

• Rope, shoelaces, yarn and ribbon - Cats typically love to play with long stringy items like yarn and ribbon, but Dr. Becker warns owners to beware of these. Owners must be vigilant of linear products or toys and use these only with supervision.  The string can easily get caught or tangled with your cat's tongue inducing them to swallow it.  Unfortunately, when this happens it can be "very serious or even fatal,  if surgery is not performed to remove the object.
• Flashlights - Everyone in your home has a flashlight for emergency use.  Make sure your cat has one too.  When playtime approaches, pick up your cat's flashlight, ruffle its coat and scratch its tummy.  Move your arm behind you when the cat's awake and shine the flashlight beam two feet away from it.  Your cat will see the light and want to pounce on it.  As your cat moves toward the light, gently shift the light from place to place.
• Bags -  Paper grocery bags and gift bags make crinkly sounds that consistently get cats' attention.
• Boxes - If your cat has a particular box it enjoys, encourage playtime with a small ball to bat from corner to corner of the box.
• Straws -  Tying a drinking straw into a knot and dropping it in your cat's line of view can start playtime.  Your cat will bat it from place to place, sliding, stretching, rolling and tumbling on floor or bed.
• Socks - Add a bit of catnip, a bell or small ball to a spare sock.  Secure tightly and swing or drag gently so your cat will follow.  "Catnip will often get a cat running around," says Dr. Becker. Not all cats are affected by catnip, but for those that are, keep in mind that catnip must be used in moderation.  For cats, the nip is a stimulant that may cause digestive upsets."
• Bottle caps - These caps are typically received on five-gallon water bottles that arrive at your doorstep by delivery.  The caps are larger, a firmer plastic and often times have the plastic neck still attached when you remove them to up-end your water into the household dispenser.  Your cat will enjoy batting the cap around a smooth surface.
• Walk on leash - Cats can be walked on leash and will probably "walk you" advises Dr. Becker.

Is Your Pet In Pain?

Pet Expressions of Pain
Know your pet's usual activities and energy levels.  Be alert to changes in behavior or habits indicating that pain is present.  Veterinarian James Clarkson suggests watching for the following to help identify pet pain.
Start with the obvious signs of vocalizing, whimpering, and limping.  Harder to distinguish signs, but signs that are more common may be one or more of these:

• Lack of appetite
• Body position is abnormal
• Posture is pensive or hunched
• Activity level has decreased
• Handling your pet elicits a response that isn't typical
• Acting withdrawn, self-isolating or hiding
• Movement is painful so they have accidents in the house
• Shakes or shivers 

There are signs to look for when your pet is experiencing pain.  Together you and your veterinarian can identify and help your pet with   pain that may be present. The issue of pain in animals is so critical that the American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA) teamed up with the American Association of Feline Practitioners (AAFP) to develop guidelines and recommendations for veterinarians. The guidelines give veterinarians information and protocols about pain thresholds, causes of pain, medications to resolve pain and treatment recommendations.
"The most common culprits behind pain are trauma and arthritis. Things have come so far in pain management," says Dr. James Clarkson. "Because of that, pets are living better lives." Clarkson, a veterinarian for nearly 35 years says that he's "embarrassed that we didn't do more to address pain in pets during my early years of practice." 
During your visit with your family veterinarian, the doctor will assess your pet. The veterinarian will examine your pet's body and feel each area to check for lumps, bumps, sensitivity, swelling, inflammation, or tenderness. A physical exam includes moving your pet's joints and feeling their response to the movement. Dogs and cats rarely cry in pain during the exam, but your veterinarian can detect areas that they are guarding.
Your pet's exam may also help your veterinarian understand the cause of the pain present. It may be necessary for your pet to have x-rays taken to make a full and accurate diagnosis. Your veterinarian will advise you as to the steps needed to move your pet toward recovery. Other treatments could include medication, physical therapy, or surgery.
There are many different prescription drugs used for pain in pets; some may be used alone, or more commonly, they are used in combination.  "Medications are metabolized very differently by different species.  Dosages can vary due to age, weight and species," says Dr. Clarkson.  For example, many pain medication used in dogs can not be used in cats.  Any medications your veterinarian prescribes must be used exactly as ordered, and you should not use any human medicines without asking your veterinarian. Always discuss the use of herbs or natural remedies with your veterinarian before using them with your pet. Adverse reactions can occur. These substances can also be toxic to pets.
PetsMatter suggests looking for clues in your pet's behavior.  Monitor the following and call your family veterinarian to report abnormalities or changes in your pet's behavior.

• Limping/ lameness
• Posture changes
• Panting
• Snapping when touched
• Restlessness or being less active
• Hesitation going up stairs
• Lack of appetite
• Dilated pupils
• Vocalization
• Inappropriate urination
• Sudden behavior changes

Clarkson advises that he is seeing more pets with dental pain in his office.  He reports that the majority of these pets are over the age of three or four.  Being alert to possible dental pain is also important and he suggests that owners keep an eye on pets for these red flags:

• An odd head tilt
• Passing up treats
• Avoiding crunchy food
• Eating wet food only
• Not eating at all
• Taking longer to eat
• Drooling
• Odor involving the mouth
• Dogs avoiding chew toys or bones

Dr. Clarkson advises that he is seeing more pets with dental pain in his office.  He reports that the majority of these pets are over the age of three or four. Many pets have severe dental disease and even abscesses without showing obvious signs of their pain. They may chew on one side of their mouth, or may swallow their food whole as they still have a drive to eat.  Symptoms of dental disease are odor from the mouth and inflamed gums. There may be drooling or even sneezing.  Signs of very severe pain that may be a result of dental pain include:

• Passing up treats
• Avoiding crunchy food
• Eating wet food only
• Not eating at all
• Taking longer to eat
• Dogs avoiding chew toys or bones

"We help clients relate to the need for pain control by comparing the pain humans experience with similar procedures or illnesses," advises veterinarian Spencer Tally.   Your veterinarian will  help you understand how to control your pet's pain.  Pain management is essential to your pet's wellness and also helps the process for a speedy recovery.

¹American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA) and American Association of Feline Practitioners (AAFP). AAHA/AAFP Pain management guidelines for dogs and cats.
²American Animal Hospital Association. Accredited practices assess pets for pain. PetsMatter Volume 2 Issue 5.
³American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA). Is your pet in pain? PetsMatter, Volume 3 Issue 3.
⁴Shaw, Lorrie. What to do when you suspect your pet is in pain, but hiding it.
⁵Washington State University's College of Veterinary Medicine. How to tell if your pet's in pain.

Nutrition Terms

 As pets have become more important to their owners, what the pets are fed has become more important as well.  Most pet owners are concerned about the quality and nutrition level of the food they are feeding their furry family members.  There are now hundreds of pet foods available to the consumer.  How do you know what to believe regarding pet food claims?
Many pet foods line the shelves of groceries and pet food stores, each with their own marketing claims.  Some of the terms used have a definite meaning to nutritionists, some are just marketing.
Terms that have a legal meaning are natural, organic, and by-products.   The  AAFCO (Association of American Feed Control Officials) defines these terms and publishes recommendations for pet foods.
Natural refers to a "feed or ingredient derived solely from plant, animal, or mined sources, either in its unprocessed state or having been subject to physical processing, heat processing, rendering, purification, extraction, hydrolysis, enzymolysis, or fermentation, but not having been produced by or subject to a chemically synthetic process."

Terms that have no defined meaning on pet food labels:

3.1.1.Holistic
3.1.2.Human grade
3.1.3.Human quality
3.1.4.Premium
3.1.5.Super Premium
3.1.6.Gourmet


Organic has been defined as " a formula feed or a specific ingredient within a formula feed that has been produced or handled in compliance with the requirements of the USDA National Organic Program."  Under this category are three levels:

1. 100% organic - must have 100% organic ingredients and additives, including processing aids
2. Organic - at least 95% of the content is organic by weight
3. Made with Organic - at least 70% of the content is organic

By-products are defined as " non- rendered clean parts of carcasses such as heads and viscera ( organs), free from fecal content and foreign material except in such trace amounts as might occur unavoidably in good factory practice."
The important thing to know is that any food labeled Natural or Organic is not necessarily a good food, and that a food with by-products can be an excellent food.  Natural substances can still be very dangerous; cocaine, heroin, arsenic, and cyanide are all natural but, of course, they are not good for you.  Organic foods may contain ingredients that are free of pesticides, but the food may not be balanced or nutritious. 
Some pet food companies suggest that foods that contain by-products are of a lower quality, but the term doesn't deserve this reputation.  In actuality, by-products are often a good source of vitamins and minerals. 
In summary, some claims by pet food companies are just marketing, without real science to back up their advertisements.  How do you know which food to use?  The best general advise is to choose a food that has been formulated with AAFCO standards and had feeding trials.  Your veterinarian can help you in this choice.

Canine Parvovirus (CPV)

The Parvovirus is known worldwide and causes disease in many different species of animals. Different strains of virus only infect certain types of animals. For example, the Canine Parvovirus (Parvo) will mainly infect dogs and does not cause disease in cats or humans. Feline Parvovirus, a different strain of virus, causes a different type of disease known as Feline Distemper.
Canine Parvovirus made its first appearance in the late 1970s and was first identified as a distinct disease in 1978. As a result of global travel and the importation of animals, the disease spread around the world in only one to two years. Most canines at the time had no natural immunity to the virus and its spread was rapid and devastating, especially for puppies.
The virus is released into the environment from infected puppies when they have a bowel movement. When unprotected dogs come into contact with the feces (stool), infection occurs when the virus is ingested. All dogs are at risk, but unvaccinated puppies are particularly susceptible to infection.
Most dogs with parvo have symptoms of lethargy; loss of appetite; fever; vomiting and severe, often bloody, diarrhea. Dehydration develops rapidly and can be fatal. Early detection and treatment by your veterinarian are essential to improve the chances of survival. This usually involves several days of hospitalization in the intensive care unit at your veterinarian’s facility. Many factors are in play but even with the proper care, the puppy may not survive.
Vaccination and cleanliness are critical to preventing Parvovirus infection. Your Veterinarian will design a vaccination schedule tailored to your pets particular needs.

Cancer

What is cancer:  Cancer, by definition, is the uncontrolled growth of cells.  Any type of cells in the body can become cancerous.  Once these cells grow out of control, they take over areas previously occupied by normal cells; sometimes these tumor cells break off and travel to other areas of the body.  Wherever these cells lodge they can start new tumors.  This process continues until there is not enough normal tissue remaining to sustain normal bodily functions.  There are a number of factors that influence how fast a cancer may grow or spread: type of cancer cell, location, genetics, as well as any concurrent illness or debilitating condition the patient may have.

Why cancer happens:  While there are many research studies devoted to determining the causes of cancer, a lot about this disease is still unknown.  It is evident that factors like genetics; exposure to harmful substances, injury, and advanced age can predispose certain patients to this disease.

Diagnosis:  Regular physical examinations and thorough medical history review are often key components to detecting cancer.  Samples of any abnormal tissue should be evaluated by a pathologist to determine the type of tumor and degree of aggressiveness of the disease.  A pathologist's report, along with other imaging such as X-rays, ultrasound, and lab work help establish the patient's health status and determine the optimal treatment plan.

Treatment:  There are many different type of cancer treatment: surgery, chemotherapy, radiation or any combination of these treatments.  The important thing is to destroy the abnormal cells without damaging the normal cells.  Veterinary oncologists, veterinarians that specialize in the study and treatment of cancer, can be consulted to help determine what treatment would be best for the patient.

Prognosis:  Cancer is not always a terminal disease.  Early detection and appropriate treatments are important in achieving the best outcome.  New advancements in diagnostics and more effective treatments are being discovered all the time.

Canine distemper

Canine distemper is caused by a virus that is shed in bodily fluids of infected animals. The virus affects primarily the lungs, intestines, and nervous system. Symptoms of the infection can include coughing, diarrhea, vomiting, inappetance, dehydration, weight loss, seizures, and encephalitis. Secondary infections can present as discharge from the eyes and/or nose, and pneumonia. Puppies, especially those from shelters, are at the highest risk. Currently there are no antiviral medications to treat canine distemper. Treatment is aimed at controlling secondary bacterial infections with antibiotics and supportive care as needed. Vaccination aimed at preventing distemper is the best strategy. Puppies should be isolated from other dogs until they have completed their series of vaccinations at 16 weeks of age.

Bloat & Gastric Torsion

Bloat & Gastric Torsion is a serious condition and your pet should be rushed to the emergency room if this occurs. Certain breeds of dogs
with deep chests and narrow waists, such as hounds,  Bouvier des Flandres, or Doberman Pinschers  are more susceptible to a syndrome of gastric torsion and bloat.
 This occurs when the stomach twists on its supporting ligaments and the contents begin to release  gas pressure. A similar disease is seen in cattle and horses as well. Dogs who experience such an attack are very susceptible to another which is usually more severe, and this is one case where immediate veterinary care is needed, normally requiring abdominal surgery to prevent a recurrence.

Arthritis

Arthritis is an inflammation of any joint in the body.  The inflammation can have many causes.  The most common type of arthritis is osteoarthritis which can be due to wear and tear on joints from over use, aging, injury, or from an unstable joint such as which occurs with a ruptured ACL (anterior cruciate ligament) in the knee.  The chronic form of this disease is called degenerative joint disease (DJD). It is estimated that 20% of dogs older than one year of age have some form of DJD. One study showed that 90% of cats over 12 years of age had evidence of DJD on x-rays.
Other causes of the inflammation can be infectious.  Septic arthritis is caused by a bacterial or fungal infection.  Lyme disease or Ehrlichia infection can also cause arthritis.  Auto-immune diseases, or what is now called immune- mediated diseases, such as Lupus can cause swollen, painful, inflamed joints.  More rarely, tumors can cause arthritis.
Treatment for arthritis should be directed to the inciting cause if possible. Surgery may be needed to stabilize a joint. DJD may be treated with NSAID’s, pain medication such as Tramadol, cartilage protective agents such as glucosamine or Adequan, acupuncture, or as a last resort, steroids.   NSAID’s  (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) have many types.  In general, it is recommended to use NSAID’s developed for pets, and not ones made for use in people as those are highly likely to cause ulcers in dogs, and most NSAID’s can’t be used in cats.    

Featured Article:

Six Tips for Keeping Your Dog Cool

What To Do If You Think Your Dog is Heat Stressed

The normal temperature of a dog is 100 to 102.5 degrees Fahrenheit . You should worry if the temperature is 105 degrees or above. You can use any human oral thermometer in the dog; place it two to three inches into the rectum for a minute. If your dog is overheated, you should provide them with plenty of drinking water. Put cool water over the entire dog to help bring their body temperature down. If there is a limited amount of water, you should wet the ear flaps and the feet first. An alternate liquid that can be good for cooling purposes is rubbing alcohol. Next, you need to take the dog to your veterinarian immediately. If your dog has heat stroked, there are other treatments that need to be performed other than just cooling him with water.

Many areas of the world are seeing record high temperatures, which makes it even more important to ensure that your pets are kept cool. Veterinarians commonly see dogs with heat stroke, but most of these cases could easily have been averted with some easy precautions.
The following six tips will help you keep your dog cool:

1. The best method for keeping your dog cool is to simply allow him or her to stay inside a house with air conditioning.  Dogs want to be part of the family and almost always enjoy being inside.
2. If your dog must be kept outside in the heat, one tool to help keep your dog from overheating is a child’s small hard plastic swimming pool. Place it in a shaded area of the yard and fill with a few inches of water. Your dog can drink from it, walk through it, or even lie in it.
3. Misters are another good tool which can be installed on your patio or any shaded area of your back yard. These emit a fine mist of water that your dog can use to keep cool.
4. Another trick is to take large plastic jugs such as milk containers, fill them with water and then freeze them.  Place outside in an area where your dog usually stays, preferably in a shaded area.  Behind the ice-filled jugs, place an electric fan so it blows across the ice and creates a cool breeze for your dog.
5. Of course, never leave your dog in a car without the air conditioning on.  Even in relatively mild outdoor temperatures, on a sunny day the environment inside the car can get dangerously hot in just a few minutes.
6. Never leave your dog tied to a tree or a post. A common scenario is for a dog to keep circling the tree, winding the rope shorter and shorter until it is caught close to the tree trunk. As the sun moves across the sky, eventually the dog is in the full sun, and not able to reach its water bowl to try to help keep itself cool. Heat stroke can quickly ensue.

If your dog is heat stressed, it will be panting heavily, with its tongue hanging out long and wide. This increases the surface area of the tongue and allows for more evaporation to happen, which helps keep your dog cool. Another symptom is the color of the gums will be a very bright red or sometimes a muddy color. If you notice any of these symptoms, take action immediately! Cool down the dog and call your veterinarian for further instructions.

Heat stroke in dogs is usually easily preventable. Using these tips will let you enjoy hot weather safely with your dog and may even save your dog’s life!

Featured Article:

Family Cats and Pregnant Women: Take Measures to Prevent Toxoplasmosis Infection

Prevention Recommendations to Keep Mom Safe

Toxoplasmosis is a disease caused by ingesting raw or undercooked meats, or direct contact with infected feline feces.  The risks to your baby increase as your pregnancy develops. Indoor cats pose less of a risk because they are not hunting small rodents while you sleep.  Outdoor cats are a greater risk because they hunt and can bury their infected stool in your yard, garden or flower beds. See your veterinarian early in your pregnancy to discuss your potential risks of becoming infected with toxoplasmosis.  Your veterinarian can make further recommendations to prevent your exposure to this harmful parasite.

Nothing must spoil the joys of becoming a new parent.  Not even your pets.  But family cats with normal, every day habits can pose a risk to expectant women.  Women's immune systems can be disturbed by a parasite carried in fecal matter.  If you're the primary caretaker of your family's feline friend it may be time to ask for help.
Toxoplasmosis is a disease that can be transmitted from cats to humans by ingestion of undercooked meat products or contact with the stool of a contaminated cat. Toxoplasmosis can cause serious problems during pregnancy.
Cats allowed to roam outdoors are more likely to carry the parasite responsible for the toxoplasmosis infection.  They can hunt and kill mice and rats during the nighttime hours.  When the rodents are infected with the Toxoplasma parasite, a cat ingesting the diseased rodent can spread this infection through its fecal matter to humans.  Pregnant women have an increased sensitivity to the dangers of that contamination.
Cats living in an outdoor environment are also defecating outdoors.  They habitually bury their stool in flower beds, gardens and other soft soil areas.  Women who are pregnant must be aware that contact with dirt that has been used by an infected cat is also a danger.  Keeping cats indoors will eliminate their exposure to potentially infected rodents and decrease your chance of coming into contact with the toxoplasmosis parasite.
"More that 60 million men, women, and children in the U.S. carry the Toxoplasma parasite, but very few have symptoms because the immune system usually keeps the parasite from causing illness," advises the United States Center for Disease Control.  Appropriate testing can help your doctor determine the potential impact on your immune system.
The Center for Disease Control recommends that specific measures be taken to prevent exposure to the toxoplasmosis infection.  The CDC's preventative measures include:

• Avoid changing the cat's litter yourself whenever possible.
• Wear gloves if you must change it yourself.
• Wash your hands immediately after changing the litter.
• Wear gloves when you are outside gardening, planting flowers, vegetables, weeding or in contact with soil that could be a potential source of contamination.
• Keep litter boxes outside your home covered.
• Delegate changing the cat's litter to another family member.
• Change the litter on a daily basis because the parasite is most infectious in just-eliminated fecal matter for at least the first five days.
• Keep Fluffy or Garfield inside your house, apartment or condo throughout your pregnancy.
• Wear gloves and/or wash your hands thoroughly after handling raw meats.

"The risk to the baby increases the later in the pregnancy the new infection is acquired," says Michael Richards, DVM.  Check in with your veterinarian early in your pregnancy to ensure a healthy infant.

Featured Article:

Take Preventative Measures When Sleeping With Pets

Share Sleeping Space With Pets - Not Disease!

Use easy to remember prevention methods to keep your sleeping area pest and parasite free when you share it with your pets.  All family members can be affected by bacteria or parasites, so prevention is critical - and it's possible! Prevent parasites Treat for ticks Keep flea treatment consistent Wash hands frequently Cover litter boxes Pick up yard feces often Cover skin wounds Discourage pet licking Vaccinate as recommended Brush teeth daily Remember to discuss household habits with your veterinarian.  Your doctor may have other suggestions to make based on your own specific circumstances.

Adults and children oftentimes enjoy sleeping with household pets.  They can keep us warm, feel comfortable, make us feel safe and loved.  They may lick our faces, hands or other exposed areas before or during sleeping time.
Scratches and bites, wounds, abscesses, ulcerations or other breaks in the skin can allow bacteria to enter the body.  Pay special attention to these areas when they are present.  Eliminate bacteria transmission and infection by keeping them covered to heal quickly.  Also, take measures to prevent your pet from licking these areas.
What happens when the pests traveling on our pets begin to travel on us?  This is an issue of particular concern for family members with compromised immune systems.  If someone in your family has a reduced efficiency immune system due to disease, illness, treatment, aging or other factors you'll want to take special care when your pets stretch out beside them.  Good pet practices are important for all members of your family.  Those practices are critical for family members with reduced immunity to infection or disease!
Zoonoses in the Bedroom places particular attention on several good pet habits that owners must take to maintain the health and well being of their family members when sharing sleeping space.  The Center for Disease Control, vigilantly paying attention to the social-emotional role of pets in households, stresses preventative measures when owners choose to sharing sleeping space with their pets.
Flea Free Take special care to treat your pets for fleas.  This should be a lifetime habit you're already consistently addressing with your veterinarian.  If not, talk with your vet to determine the best course of flea reduction and elimination for your family's household.  Your vet can help you decide which product to use to keep your loved ones safe.  The doctor may also have recommendations to make about treatment options that will provide additional support for your pet's health and well being.
Tick-Tock It's Time to Treat Treating for ticks will be a discussion you need to have with your veterinarian.  Your doctor will be able to recommend treatments and alternatives as appropriate for your pet's health status and your home's location.  You may already be treating for ticks and you'll want your vet's feedback about other concerns and the impact sleeping with your pets may have on your family.
Scrub-a-Dub Remembering to wash your hands frequently will support your family with reducing or eliminating bacteria that may be shared between you and your pets.  Human hands are probably the area of our body that have the most frequent opportunities to transmit disease.  Typically, you may not give much thought to the places your hands have been before they appear in your kitchen preparing food or handling your child's toys.  Scrub-a-dub with lots of suds whenever possible!
Pearly Whites Need to Stay Bright Dental care for your pet is important.  When your pet is sharing your sleeping space keeping the pearly whites bright will have additional importance for the health and well being of your family.  Tartar and buildup on your pet's teeth will gather bacteria in their mouths.  Happily licking you or your family in bed can share that bacteria.
Very Vaccinated Keeping your pet's vaccinations current will help it maintain good health.  Those shots will also minimize chances that you or your family will become ill from something that can be prevented.  Your family veterinarian has a schedule for your pet's shots and can advise you as to necessary vaccine updates and out-dated practices.
Prevent Pests Preventing parasites in your home can be fairly easy when all members participate in preventative practices.  These practice include good hand washing during meal preparation, carefully handling feces and hand washing after handling, keeping litter boxes covered and clean, and maintaining a feces-free yard.  Pet owners who implement flea and tick treatment measures will also help to prevent parasites in their homes, beds and on their skin.
Infectious diseases can be transmitted from dogs and cats to owners that share sleeping space with them.  Notable examples include: Pasteurellosis in Japan and the United Kingdom, Cheyletiella dermatitis in France and cat-scratch disease in Taiwan.

Featured Article:

Pets Can Teach Children How to Nurture and Care

Children Develop Caregiving Skills with Pets

Children in homes with pets have great opportunities to develop critical caregiving abilities and social skills.  When children are encouraged to participate in caring for family pets at age appropriate levels they can begin to learn how to nurture and care for others. Pets are not threatening and can be stress reducers for children.  Providing simple care based on a child’s individual abilities will sow seeds of joy and responsibility. Caring for pets is a neutral activity that is almost always a good fit for children.  Use these tips: Praise your child often to make the experience positive. Create a simple reward program using stickers, extra playtime, games or outings as treats. A daily chart can provide your child with visual evidence of results and rewards. Check with your veterinarian for more ideas to create the best home for your pets.

Gail Melson, author of Why the Wild Things Are:  Animals in the Lives of Children has been watching animals and children for some time.  She estimates that of every ten children, four grow up in a home that includes domestic animals.  She has determined that as many as 90 percent of all youngsters live with a pet at some point during their childhood.
Living with pets and caring for them can teach both boys and girls great lessons.
Young girls are usually encouraged to play with dolls and play house.  Girls learn to care and often actively begin tending to others in the home before the age of eight.  Girls will play dress-up with their animals, dolls and siblings.  Later, girls may become babysitters in their home or neighborhood. The social and caregiving skills learned in these activities are useful to girls throughout their lives.
"Nurturing animals is especially important for boys," Melson says.  Young boys are usually not encouraged similarly and may miss out on the opportunity to learn caregiving skills.  Balls, cars and sports typically occupy the interest of young boys.  Boys can care for pets in their home without fear of criticism or reproach; they are merely caring for their dog, cat, hamster or other animal.  Actually providing the care becomes the only issue and boys are able to feel comfortable with nurturing.  Taking care of an animal is not gender specific and both boys and girls can always remain equally involved.
"Nurturing isn't a quality that suddenly appears in adulthood when we need it," Dr. Melson advises. "And you don't learn to nurture because you were nurtured as a child.  People need a way to practice being caregivers when they're young."  Household pets provide frequent opportunities for young boys and girls to develop nurturing habits.  Caregiving for animals teaches them responsibility for seeing that the family dog or cat receives fresh water and food at certain times throughout the day.
Children can provide simple care from a very young age and fill greater needs as their abilities allow.  Caring for the family pets can also help children expand their sense of self awareness and develop an awareness about other people, time or space.  Children will also to develop their ability to anticipate needs.
Helping your child to become responsible for pets in your home needs to occur on a step-by-step basis.  The process must be implemented according to your child’s cognitive abilities and physical abilities.  Remember that each child is different and has different levels of capabilities when you begin talking to them about caring for your household pets.
When your child is the responsible party for providing care for a pet in your home, always remember that you’ll still need to keep your eye on the water dishes, food bowls, walks and potty trips.  You may find it necessary to provide gentle reminders for your child.  Creating happy notes and making simple awards like stickers, stars or allowing extra playtime will make the transition more fun for your child.  Involving the whole family to encourage your child will increase his or her success and enjoyment.

About Us

Los Angeles veterinarians, Dr. Jeffrey Marks , Dr. Lara Nicolayevsky (Dr. Nic) and Dr Amy Bednarek at Rancho Park Veterinary Clinic are some of the best veterinarians in the Los Angeles area and are committed to your pet's health and well being. Rancho Park Veterinary Clinic excels in pet care and the science of veterinary medicine.
Dr. Jeffrey Marks and the staff at Rancho Park Veterinary Clinic have provided Los Angeles patients compassionate quality veterinary care and pet services since 1986, making us the animal clinic of choice for pet owners in and around the Los Angeles community. We know you'll find our staff welcoming and knowledgeable. Rancho Park is a neighborhood hospital, a place you can go for consistency of care. Read our petsimonials to meet some of our beloved animal friends.
Rancho Park Veterinary Clinic is a full service animal hospital offering the Los Angeles community daytime emergency vet care as well as medical, surgical, and dental services. We are proud to offer state-of-the-art services, including in-house lab equipment, ultrasound, and digital radiography. We also have an in-house pharmacy with access to specialists, making our veterinary facility a one stop shop for your pet's health and medical needs. 
Our West Los Angeles veterinarian office is very easy to get to, and you can find directions on our Contact Us page.  You can also view The Rex and Winston Blog which is created especially for our clients. 

At Rancho Park Veterinary Clinic, your pets are our family!

Dr. Jeffrey Marks
Los Angeles Veterinarian | Rancho Park Veterinary Clinic

310-474-3398

10585 West Pico Boulevard
Los Angeles, CA 90064

rpvc@att.net

Hospital Hours:

Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday     7:30am-5:00pm

Thursday                                                                     7:30am-6:00pm

Saturday                                                                      9:00am-4:00pm

Our Company

We're pleased to offer the following services in our Los Angeles Veterinary Clinic:
APPOINTMENTS
Our appointments are scheduled so you can be seen promptly.  We do accept walk-in patients, however appointments will be given first priority.  Our receptionists and team will attempt to accommodate all requests to the best of our ability.  Appointments may be requested by calling 323-735-0291 or via our PET PORTAL 24/7.  
Emergencies are accepted anytime our clinic is open.  If you feel you have an emergency with your pet, please call us or come to the hospital immediately.  If possible it is best to call before coming in so that a staff member can advise you on your particular emergency. 
    Georgina                   Jennifer
DAILY LOW COST VACCINATIONS
You don't need to wait in long lines for low cost vaccinations.  Our everyday prices are lower than many "specials" at other hospitals/pet stores.  When you talk to our doctors they can make sure your pet has the proper immunizations, not just a package of unneeded vaccinations.  Please note: the Veterinary Board of Examiners and state law require that every pet we vaccinate has a yearly exam. 
GENERAL MEDICINE
Experienced veterinarians diagnose and treat various illnesses.  Emphasizing prevention and education, the staff strives to empower pet owners and improve their pet's overall health.  Please ask our staff about:

• Flea Control
• Dermatology
• Ophthalmology
• Treatment for Infectious Disease and Prevention of Parasites 
• Cardiac and Pulmonary Diseases 
• Metabolic Diseases (Diabetes, Kidney Failure, Cushings, Liver Diseases)

SURGERY
In addition to spays and neuters, Rancho Park Veterinary Clinic offers various soft tissue and orthopedic surgeries.  To insure the comfort, health and safety of your pets, we regularly utilize IV catheters and pre-op blood testing. In addition we use state-of-the-art equipment to monitor the heart, lungs and vital organs during surgery.
ORAL CARE
Dogs and cats need dental care, too.  Preventative teeth cleaning, scaling and polishing, along with oral surgeries can be handled by the experienced team at the Rancho Park Veterinary Clinic.
We now offer Anesthesia Free Dentistry once a month by appointment only.  Come in today for a free oral exam to see if your pet is a candidate!
LATEST TECHNOLOGY
We are equipped with state-of-the-art technology, you can be sure your pet has acess to the best diagnostic tools
Ultrasound    Laser Surgery    Video Otoscope

  

PHARMACY AND DIET FOODS 
One of our greatest assets is a fully stocked pharmacy inside our facilty.  We are able to fill prescriptions for flea and worm control and pharmeceutical medicine.  Following your pet's surgery, procedure and/or visit, you will be able to quickly receive your medicine.  We are competetively priced with the online pharmacies and pet stores, and our products are 100% guranteed (not true with online pharmacies or pet stores). 
We ship all medicine orders over $25 for free, or you can pick them up the same day.  You can place your order by our PET PORTAL via the internet 24/7. 
In addition we offer the full line of Hills Prescription Diets and select Royal Canin products.  These advanced diets are specially made for pets with special medical needs.
                                       
EMERGENCY & URGENT CARE
We have veterinarians and support staff on duty 7 days a week who are trained and equipped to handle any urgent pet care needs.  Usually an emergency team consists of at least one veterinarian and several technicians working together to save a pet's life.  Emergencies include snail bait poisoning, a hit by car accident and chocolate ingestion, etc.  If you ever feel that your pet needs emergency treatment do not hesitate to call or come in immediately.  However if possible, it is best to call before coming in so that a team member can advise you on your particular emergency.
BATHING AND GROOMING

• Medicated Baths
• Hypoallergenic Baths
• Nail Clipping
• Anal Gland Expression

TYPES OF PETS SEEN
Because a large number of veterinarians practice at Rancho Park Veterinary Clinic, we can care for many types of pets:
Dogs
Cats
Rabbits*
Pocket Pets*
*Select veterinarians only. Call us for more information.

PAYMENTS
Rancho Park Veterinary Clinic accepts payment via cash, check, Visa, MasterCard, or American Express.  In order to provide high quality service utilizing the best medical technologies, payment must be made at the time services are rendered.
We provide estimates for all surgeries and hospitalizations.  If you have not received an estimate, please request one at any time.
DISCOUNTS
Rancho Park Veterinary Clinic offers discounted services to senior citizens and local area rescue groups. Pre-approval is required to qualify for the rescue group discounts, please call us for more information.