4th of July Hazards

When thinking of the 4th of July the most common images people think of are barbecues with loved ones and fireworks. Both of these are meant to be fun and festive but if the proper precautions are not taken for your pet, he or she may have a very different experience.

Fireworks are a major cause of fear and anxiety in animals. Reactions include but are not limited to shaking, hiding, cowering, whining, and even running away. If your dog or cat experiences only a mild phobia of fireworks, you may keep them in a secure, quiet room during this time. For more severe phobias, anti-anxiety medications should be prescribed. These medications take several days to become effective. If medication would be beneficial for your pet, make sure to schedule an appointment at least a week prior to the 4th of July.

Whenever there are large groups of people coming and going, it is very important to keep an eye on your pets to make sure they do not slip through the door. Also, some pets are frightened by large crowds or loud noises, such as music or excitement. Make sure your pet is in a secure and quiet location if either of these things make him or her uncomfortable.

Another thing you must keep an eye on during barbecues and parties is the food. Hungry mouths are often eager to help clean up any dropped or unattended food. Make sure your pet does not get a hold of any toxic or hazardous foods. For a list of foods to keep away from you pet, visit: hazardous human foods

Please do not hesitate to call for more information or to schedule an appointment!

(949)766-4449

Hypothyroidism in Dogs

Hypothyroidism is the most commonly diagnosed hormonal disorder in dogs and many pet owners have no idea their pet may have this condition until blood work is performed.

Hypothyroidism is a hormonal disorder that affects dogs of all age, sex, and breed. 

Some of the most common symptoms include:
*Unexplained weight gain
*Lethargy
*Sensitivity to cold
*Hair loss/ excessive shedding
*Recurring skin/ear infections

For more information, including symptoms, diagnosis, and maintenance, visit: Hypothyroidism in Dogs

Vaccinate Against Rattlesnake Venom

Summer is Here!

(Unfortunately, So Are the Rattlesnakes!)

 

With the summer heat and abundance of dry brush this year, Rattlesnakes are a serious threat for you and your dog. While nothing can replace caution and a watchful eye, the Rattlesnake Vaccine should be given to any dog that MAY (even once) come into contact with snakes. It only takes one bite to change or cost them their life.

While the Rattlesnake Vaccine does not make your pet completely immune to the venom, it decreases pain, swelling, and tissue damage, reduces risk of permenant inujury, as well as aids in faster recovery times by producing toxin antibodies that work to neutralize the toxic venom. 

The Rattlesnake vaccine may also significantly decrease cost of treatment if your dog is bit. Antivenin costs hundreds, sometimes thousands of dollars, depending on the size of dog, the size of the Rattlesnake, and location of the bite. The Rattlesnake vaccine reduces (and sometimes eliminates!) the amount of Antivenin and other treatment required.

The vaccine requires one booster given approximately 1 month after the initial injection, allowing effective antibodies to be produced aound 1 month later. The vaccine should be administered yearly after the initial series, however, if your dog is at high risk, semi-annual boosters should be considered.

 Visit http://www.redrockbiologics.com for additional information.

Please contact us for more information or to make an appointment for your dog!

(949) 766-4449