Dr. Eberhardt's Continuing Education in Dermatology

Dr. Michael Eberhardt of Banderas Pet Hospital attended another dermatology hands-on lab this last Sunday in Tustin, CA.  The dermatology seminar was presented by Dr. Colleen Mendelson of the Animal Dermatology Clinic.  Dr. Mendelson is a  Board Certified Veterinary Dermatologist and lectures throughout the country.  Dermatology is a special interest of Dr. Eberhardt and is a large part of his practice right here in Rancho Santa Margarita.  If your pet kid has itchy skin, a rash that won’t go away or constant ear infections, give Banderas Pet Hospital a call at  949/766-4449 and make an appointment with Dr. Eberhardt.

Easter Hazards For Your Pet Kid

Have A Safe Easter!!!

Easter is a festive time of year for many of us! There are, however, several 

potential hazards for your Pet Kid that you may not be aware of. We want your 

pets healthy and happy, so we do ask that you take care to keep these items 

out of curious mouths!

1. Easter Lillies- All components of Easter Lillies are poisonous to cats: petals, leaves, stem, and even pollen. Ingestion of even a small amount can result in kidney failure. Symptoms include vomiting, dehydration, loss of appetite, and lethargy.

2. Easter Grass- The decorative fake grass used in Easter baskets can cause extremely serious complications, and even death in your dog or cat if eaten. The linear property of the grass may entwine itself in the stomach or intestines, resulting in a linear foreign body. These situations often require surgical removal. Besides seeing your pet eat Easter grass, some symptoms of ingestion include straining to defecate, or a painful abdomen.

3. Chocolate- Easter baskets are often brimming with chocolates and candy, which is great for human kids, but can be deadly for our Pet Kids. The Methylxanthines and Theobromines in chocolate are toxic to dogs and cats and may result in vomiting, diarrhea, hyperactivity, seizures, and even death. Generally, the darker the chocolate, the higher its toxicity.

4. Xylitol- This artificial sweetener is found in some types of candies, chewing gum, and baked goods, and can be extremely toxic to dogs and cats.

5. Easter Eggs (Real and Fake)- Plastic eggs, though cute and fun to hunt, are possible choking hazards for our furry friends. They can also become lodged in the stomach or intestines, causing blockages. Hard boiled eggs that have spoiled can cause severe digestive upsets if eaten by dogs or cats. 

If you believe your Pet Kid may have eaten any of these hazardous holiday items, please call us immediately for advise. (949) 766-4449

Case of the Month- "Mystic"

"Case of the Month"

Mystic

    Our "Case of the Month" for March is a beautiful 2 year old male white husky named Mystic. For several months Mystic had been having chronic diarrhea accompanied by weight loss and loss of energy. After several unsuccessful visits at their prior veterinary hospital, the diarrhea worsened and began to show evidence of blood. Mystic's loving owner grew more concerned and began searching for another veterinarian, eventually finding Dr. Eberhardt. 

    After a thorough examination, Dr. E determined that a blood and urine panel needed to be performed to find the underlying cause of Mystic's condition. The blood panel indicated several abnormal levels of blood chemistry values leading Dr. E to perform a Pancreatitis test. After analyzing the results, it was determined that Mystic was indeed suffering from Pancreatitis! Pancreatits is the  inflammation of the pancreas which results in the release of toxins into the body and severe metabolic complications. If it remains untreated, Pancreatitis can cause diabetes, brain damage, and even death.

 

    Dr. E prescribed appropriate medications, along with a low fat intestinal health diet. Mystic's owner noticed an improvement within 24 hours: the diarrhea stopped, as well as any trace of blood in his stool, and his energy began to return! Within a few days, Mystic regained 5 lbs! After the medications were completed, a repeat Pancreatits test was performed which revealed that Mystic had made a full recovery! 

In Mystic's owner's words, "When I look at Mystic now...healthy, energetic, happy...I think of Dr. Michael J. Eberhardt. If it wasn't for his excellent knowledge & wonderful care of animals, my beautiful boy would not be here today."

How to Make Your Pet's Boarding Experience a Great One!!

How to Make Your Pet's Boarding Experience a Great One!!

To make your pet's boarding stay as pleasant as possible, here are some tips for both dogs and cats:

- Bring your pet's regular food. Sudden changes in diet may cause intestinal upsets.

-Bring an unwashed article of your clothing (no undergarments, please!). The smell of home will make them feel more comfortable.

-If they have a small bed or favorite small blanket, bring it! Although we provide beds and blankets, they often feel safer and more comfortable sleeping in something familiar.

-If they have a favorite toy or snack, bring it!  (Please limit toys to one or two.)