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Question - How do I know when I should take my pet to the vet?

 

Answer - There are no hard and fast rules, but here are some guidelines. Don't waste any time before seeking medical attention for sick puppies or kittens. They cannot tolerate symptoms like vomiting or diarrhea, for even a day without running the risk of permanent damage or death. With dogs and cats older than 1 year and current on vaccinations, it is okay to monitor them for a day or two as long as they are eating and drinking, and do not seem depressed. If you are unsure whether a situation is an emergency, call an emergency office and discuss the symptoms with the receptionist, if a doctor is unavailable. They are trained to know what signs constitute an emergency and what can wait.

 

Question - I am traveling by plane and want to bring my dog. What do I need to do ?

 

Answer - Most airlines require that a veterinarian certify your dog in good health within 10 days of the flight. Schedule an appointment with your veterinarian to receive a health certificate. Have an airline approved kennel, and be cautious with sedation. Though very few animals die during transport, over half of the mortalities are from over sedation. Small dogs can travel in a carrier with their owner. Large dogs go in the luggage compartment, which is pressurized. During the summer pick an evening or early morning flight to avoid excessive heat. This is especially important if you have to change flights, because the dog may end up waiting on the tarmac between flights.

 

Question - My cat is sore after getting her yearly vaccinations. Is it okay to give her a little baby Tylenol?

 

Answer - Never give a cat Tylenol unless your veterinarian specifically says that it's okay. Even small amounts of Tylenol can kill a cat. Cats have a small amount of an enzyme needed to metabolize Tylenol to a non-toxic compound. Cats given Tylenol can die from anemia. Dogs are also very sensitive to side effects from Tylenol. They can go into liver failure. If you ever want to give your pet a pain reliever for any reason, consult your veterinarian first.

 

Question - I just found a stray cat and want to adopt her. I already have two indoor cats. Do I need to take any precautions?

 

Answer - Yes, you certainly do. Do not introduce the stray to the others until you get her tested for Feline Leukemia and Feline AIDS. Both are contagious viral diseases that are common in the outdoor cat population. You also want to have her checked for internal parasites (worms), and get rid of any fleas. After your stray kitty gets a clean bill of health and is vaccinated, you need to introduce the cats gradually. Be patient. Most cats resent intruders initially, but usually end up content with a new family member.

 

 

Question - I have an outdoor dog, and I am concerned about heat stroke. What are the signs?

Answer - You are right to be concerned during the coming hot months. Some factors that increase the likelihood of heat stroke are water deprivation, obesity, breeds with flat faces, being very young or very old, lots of exercise, some medications, and some medical problems such as laryngeal paralysis or heart disease. The elevated temperature leads to tissue damage and potentially life-threatening multiple organ dysfunction. The signs you'll see are panting, drooling, depression, weakness, vomiting, diarrhea, and bleeding. Signs may even show up three to five days after the initial heat stroke. To prevent heat stroke, make sure that your dog has plenty of shade and water, and that you check on your dog regularly. Please call us if you have any questions.

 

Question - What can I do to prevent dental disease in my pet?

Answer - Fortunately, dental disease is a preventable and treatable condition. For starters your dog, cat, and even ferrets, should be on a diet of mostly dry food. The abrasive surface of the food helps to prevent plaque build up. Next, there are chew toys and treats that are designed with enzymes to reduce plaque and bacteria build up. There are toothpastes made especially for dogs and cats, which are intended to be swallowed, unlike the human variety, and can greatly reduce plaque build up with daily brushings. Finally, after 2-4 years of age (depending on the state of your pet's gums and teeth) your pet should have its teeth professionally scaled and polished on an annual basis.