URGENT DOG AND CAT FOOD RECALL NOTICE!!!!

May 14, 2012 Dr. Shannon Sura Newsletters Leave a comment , , ,

If you are feeding any of the following dog or cat foods to your pet, please stop feeding that food immediately. 

  • Chicken Soup for the Pet Lover’s Soul
  • Country Value
  • Diamond
  • Diamond Naturals
  • Premium Edge
  • Professional
  • 4Health
  • Taste of the Wild
  • Apex
  • Kirkland Signature (Available only at Costco)
  • Kirkland Signature Nature’s Domain (Available only at Costco)
  • Canidae
  • Natural Balance

If your pet has been eating one of these foods and displays any of the following symptoms, diarrhea, loss of appetite or lethargy, please call Dr. Sura immediately at

480-945-9466.   Dr. Sura can also advise you on dietary alternatives.

People can become sick by handling the tainted pet food or through contact with an animal that has eaten the contaminated food.  An outbreak strain of Salmonella Infantis has been linked to the above list of foods.  At least 16 cases have been confirmed with at least 5 people requiring hospitalization.


Heartworm, Fleas, & Ticks oh my!

May 3, 2012 Dr. Shannon Sura Newsletters Leave a comment , , , , , ,

Cases of Heartworm Disease can be found in all 50 states. Both cats and dogs are equally at risk.  The fact that your cat is an indoor cat doesn’t mean that it won’t get bitten by a mosquito.  Mosquitos find their way into our homes buzzing about in search of a victim on which to feed.  Wherever you find mosquitos, you’ll find Heartworm Disease.  Perhaps there was a time when Arizona was free of the disease, but that is no longer the case.  All it takes is one heartworm infected pet or wildlife creature to be bitten by a mosquito. That mosquito then carries the disease to another cat, dog or wildlife creature.  Hundreds of thousands of cases of Heartworm Disease are reported every year. A simple blood test will tell you if your pet tests positive for Heartworm Disease.

If your pet becomes infected with Heartworm Disease, you may not see any sign of illness until it has reached advanced stages.  Some pets never show any signs of being infected, until it is too late. Signs of heartworm infection may include coughing, difficulty breathing and lethargy.  Treatment for Heartworm Disease involves a product that contains arsenic.  In addition to the treatment, your pet will have to remain inactive for weeks afterward.   It is risky, expensive and may not be successful. Heartworm Disease can be fatal to your pet. Year-round treatment is recommended by the American Heartworm Society and the Companion Animal Parasite Council.  Heartgard is recommended by Dr. Sura and is the #1 choice of veterinarians in the prevention of Heartworm Disease.

In addition to the prevention of Heartworm Disease, Heartgard is also used to treat intestinal parasites.  The most common types are Roundworms and Hookworms.  Dogs and cats of any age can get roundworms or hookworms, but young puppies are the most vulnerable and it is often contracted from their mother. While a pet may show no sign of infection, symptoms may include vomiting, loss of appetite or severe weight loss.  Heavy infections in young puppies and kittens may be fatal. Roundworms and Hookworms are also transmittable to humans.

Ticks and fleas can also create health issues for your pets.  Ehrlichiosis or tick fever is a tick transmitted disease.  The brown dog tick transmits the disease as it feeds on the dog’s blood.   The disease has two phases, acute and chronic.  Clinical signs of the acute phase of Ehrlichiosis are non-specific and may include listlessness, swollen lymph nodes, anorexia, fever, nervousness and discharges from the nose and eyes.  Signs of the chronic phase may include those of the acute phase as well as nosebleeds, other abnormal bleeding, weight loss and eye problems.  In both phases, the damage done to the body relates to the destruction and decreased production of all blood cells. This leads to anemia, decreased resistance to disease, infection and abnormal bleeding.  Accurate diagnosis can only be confirmed through bloodwork.  The acute phase of Ehrlichiosis usually responds to treatment within a short period of time.  However, the chronic phase is difficult to treat and can be fatal.  Treatment in both cases requires administration of specific antibiotics and may require other supportive care.

The best approach for tick control is twofold.  First, protect your pet with either Frontline or Certifect.  Frontline is an excellent choice to prevent the transmission of disease to your dog by killing ticks before they can transmit disease.  Certifect is the optimum choice if your dog already has ticks, since it begins killing the ticks within the first six hours of application.  Next, you’ll want to make your yard unfriendly to ticks by keeping grassy areas short, bushes trimmed and minimizing mulch and leaf litter. When walking your pet, avoid areas that might be inviting to ticks.

To check your pet for ticks, look and feel for them as you brush, pet and play with your cat or dog.  You’re likely to feel the tick bump before you can see it.  Pay special attention to the head, neck and paws, since these are areas that ticks prefer to attach themselves.  If you find a tick on your pet, contact us immediately so that the appropriate treatment can begin as soon as possible.

While flea infestation is less common in Arizona than in other parts of the country, your pet may still be at risk for infestation if allowed in undeveloped areas.  Outdoor cats are especially prone to flea infestation.  Excessive scratching may be the first sign that your pet has a flea problem.  Fleas can cause Flea Allergy Dermatitis and anemia as fleas continue to feast on your pet. 

To check for fleas, look for black specks (flea dirt) on your pet or its bed.  You may also run a metal comb through the coat, making sure that you reach all the way to the skin.  If the comb gathers black specks you may have found flea dirt.  Another method in checking for fleas is to place a white paper towel or sheet of paper beneath your pet and rub your hands through its coat.  If black specks fall on the towel, it may be flea dirt.  If you find live fleas with either of these methods, drown them in soapy water before they can jump back on your pet.

Apply Frontline Plus for the prevention or treatment of flea infestation.  Frontline Plus works on contact to kill fleas already on your pet and helps prevent new fleas from making their home there.  If your pet has fleas, they’re likely thriving elsewhere in your home.  Check carpeting, bedding and furniture or anywhere in the house your pet has been for flea infestation.  While Frontline Plus will treat your pet, you may need to consult a pest control specialist to properly and effectively treat your home.

Whether it’s Heartworm Disease or Tick and Flea issues, prevention is always the most cost effective and helps to insure that your pet live a longer, healthier life.  Currently there is a $15 rebate if you purchase 12 doses of Heartgard.  If you purchase 3 doses of Frontline you get 1 dose free, and with a purchase of 6 doses you get 2 free doses.  With a purchase of 3 doses of Certifect, there is a $5 coupon and for 6 doses there is a $12 coupon.  We have coupons and rebate forms available for all of these products.


Why Spay & Neuter Your Pet?

April 10, 2012 Dr. Shannon Sura Family Pet Hospital, Newsletters Leave a comment , , ,

Whether or not to Spay or Neuter our cats and dogs should be an easy decision.  If your pet isn’t already spayed or neutered, and you’re considering keeping them intact, please read the following information, and you may reconsider.

Females that are not spayed will have heat cycles.  Female dogs can have heat cycles twice a year. F emale cats can go into heat four to five days every three weeks during breeding season.

Heat cycles can cause your female to:

  • display personality changes – an otherwise sweet dog can become more assertive or aggressive with both people and other pets
  • yowling and marking – especially female cats, may become quite vocal and mark throughout the house
  • blood staining – a female in heat can leave trails of blood creating quite a mess during the heat cycle
  • have an unwanted pregnancy – unless closely monitored, a female cat or dog can attract intact males and result in an unplanned pregnancy

Intact females are subject to:

  • uterine, ovarian and mammary cancer – which is fatal in 50% of dogs and 90% of cats
  • pyometra – a common life-threatening uterus infection of unspayed dogs
  • urinary tract infections – can be more frequent

Males that are unneutered will also have issues for their owners to address. 

  • desire to roam – unneutered males will go to great lengths to escape in search of a mate
  • marking – both unneutered male cats and dogs are likely to mark throughout the house – neutering around six months of age is likely to prevent any likelihood of marking
  • testicular cancer –  the risk is eliminated with a neutered male
  • prostatitis - is a bacterial infection of the prostate and can occur in an unneutered male
  • benign prostatic hyperplasia – is a condition where the prostate enlarges resulting in difficulty urinating and defecating
  • urinary tract infections and diseases – can occur in unneutered males – this can be quite serious and even fatal in unneutered male cats
  • temperament -  intact males may become more assertive and even aggressive to other pets and people especially if they catch the scent of a female in heat in the area
  • humping – both male cats and dogs are prone to humping other pets, people’s legs, their toys  and even couch cushions

Some of the myths about spaying and neutering should also be dispelled.

  • The pet will get fat after being spayed or neutered.   No, metabolism and food intake determine if a pet becomes overweight.  Pets that have been spayed or neutered may be calmer and require less food
  • The pet’s personality will change after being spayed or neutered.   No positive personality or behavioral traits will change.   Negative traits, such as marking, aggression and the desire to roam usually lessen once the pet has been spayed or neutered.
  • A female should have at least one litter.  This is a myth.  There is no medical reason for a female to have litter of puppies or kittens.  It is the owner’s perception that the cat or dog wants to have a litter or that it would in some way a benefit to the pet or others.  If you love your pet, you would likely care what happened to its offspring.  It is a tremendous responsibility and sometimes expense, to care for a pregnant pet through the delivery of the litter.  Then what about placing all of those puppies or kittens?  Ask yourself, would you want that puppy or kitten in a neglectful or abusive home?  Screening potential owners is an arduous, time consuming task.
  • My pet would never escape or want to leave our home.  This may be true for a devoted neutered or spayed cat or dog.  But, the hormonal surges of your intact pet are very likely to cause it to go to any length to find a mate.  Now your pet is at risk of contracting sexually transmitted diseases, parasites, being in a dog or cat fight or even worse, being hit by a car.

If all of the above information hasn’t convinced you about the value of spaying or neutering your pet, just take a trip to your local Humane Society.  You will find rows and rows of cats and dogs longing to find a forever home.  Many others, due to age, health, temperament or just plain shelter overcrowding have been or will be euthanized.


Water Safety For Your Pets

February 29, 2012 Family Pet Hospital Family Pet Hospital, Newsletters Leave a comment , , , , ,

SOME THINGS TO REMEMBER

Not all dogs can swim, even those that are thought to easily adapt to the water. Some breeds, such as English Bulldogs, Pugs, Bassett Hounds and others are not swimmers and may not be able to stay afloat and sink to the bottom of the pool or other body of water.

Water safety is equally important in the winter as in the summer months. Small dogs especially can succumb to hypothermia quickly if they fall into a pool of cold water.

Young, inexperienced dogs or puppies may not be instinctively aware of the danger that the swimming pool provides.

Disabled and older dogs can lose their balance or sense of perception and fall into a pool with disastrous results.

Dogs can tire and get into trouble if they are not able to find their way out of a swimming pool or are unsuccessful in their attempts to exit the pool.

Even good swimmers can become disoriented if they unexpectedly fall into a pool.

Heat from the sun is more intense around water. Watch your dogs for signs of heat exhaustion and sunburn.

Rinse your dog’s coat after swimming whether it is in a pool, river, lake or ocean. Chlorine, salt and bacteria can cause skin irritation.

Do not let your dog drink from the pool, lakes, rivers or oceans. Chemicals, bacteria, parasites and salt can cause gastric upset.

TIPS TO AVOID A DROWNING TRAGEDY

Never leave your pet alone around a swimming pool or hot tub unless the area is fenced
and secure.

Teach your dog where the stairs or other means of exit from the pool are located.

Purchase pet pool safety products and aides that help your dog get out of the water such as a ramp for an easy exit. Other safety products include a life jacket, pet collars, pool alarms and of course fencing around the pool.


February is Dental Health Month

February 3, 2012 Family Pet Hospital Family Pet Hospital, Newsletters Leave a comment , , , , ,

Checking inside your cat or dog’s mouth is always a part of Dr. Sura’s nose to tail exam whenever they come to see her at Family Pet Hospital. For our more cooperative patients, she can get a pretty good idea about the condition of their teeth and gums. But as you know, not every animal appreciates strangers peering into their mouths. And of course for the doctor, the pet’s recourse could be mean a nasty bite to her hand. However, she does her best to access the pet’s mouth and provide owners with the best course of action for their dental health. Prevention of dental disease is the goal. But if your pet already has some degree of dental disease you should plan on taking the necessary steps recommended by the veterinarian.

Periodontal Disease is an infection of the tissue surrounding the teeth that progresses in stages.

  • It starts out as a bacterial film which is called plaque. The bacteria attach to the teeth.
  • Whens the bacteria die they can be calcified by saliva. This forms a hard, rough substance called tartar or calculus which allows more plaque to accumulate on the teeth. Initially, plaque is soft and brushing or chewing hard food or toys can dislodge it.
  • But if left untreated, the plaque can lead to gingivitis. Gingivitis is an inflammation of the gums, causing them to become red and swollen and they bleed easily.
  • As plaque and calculus develop below the gum line, professional cleaning will be needed to manage it.
  • If the plaque and tartar buildup continues unchecked, infection can form around the root of the tooth.
  • Finally periodontal disease will destroy the tissue surrounding the tooth, eroding the bony socket that holds the tooth in and the tooth becomes loose.

Periodontal disease can affect your pet’s heart, lungs and kidney and liver function thereby shortening their life.

For prevention of the beginning stages of plaque buildup you might try the following:

  • Hills T/D diet is designed to remove plaque and tartar from the teeth as your pet bites into the kibble. You should notice a difference in a few weeks.
  • Brushing your pet’s teeth daily with toothpaste specifically made for your canine or feline pet.
  • Chew toys that are designed to aid in the removal of plaque. But beware of meat bones, as they may damage the teeth causing slab fractures.

If your pet has periodontal disease and Dr. Sura advises a dental cleaning, once scheduled, you can expect the following:

  • Because your pet will receive anesthesia, there will be no food after 8:00 p.m. the night before the scheduled procedure. Water may be given up until the time that you arrive at Family Pet Hospital.
  • On the morning of the procedure, when you arrive, you will be asked to sign a Dental Care Authorization and Surgical and Anesthetic Release Form. Arrival time is 7:00 a.m. unless otherwise specified.
  • Once the paperwork is signed and any questions you may have answered, you may leave. You are welcome to call during the day to check on your pet if you have any concerns
  • Your pet will then receive a Pre-anesthetic exam and blood work to be sure that he or she is healthy enough to undergo anesthesia. You would be notified immediately if Dr. Sura believes your pet is at risk and she feels it is not in the best interest of the animal to proceed with the dental.
  • Your pet will receive IV fluids during and after the procedure to insure that their blood pressure remains stable during the dental and the anesthetics are flushed from the blood stream. A small patch of fur will be shaved from one of the front legs to accommodate the IV catheter.
  • During anesthesia, your pet’s vital signs (such as body temperature, heart and respiratory rate, oxygen saturation, and blood pressure) will be monitored and recorded to insure the safety of your pet.
  • Dental radiographs (x-rays) of the teeth will be taken to completely evaluate your pet’s oral health. X-rays will disclose any abnormalities below the surface that are not visible with examination alone.
  • Your pet’s teeth are then scaled to remove the plaque and tartar. The teeth are then polished with a special paste to smooth out any scratches in the tooth enamel. Once polished, a fluoride application is performed.
  • Extractions, if necessary are also done at this time.
  • An application of Doxirobe Gel may be used if the gingival pocket is large, to avoid further periodontal disease and potential future extractions.
  • All pets are treated to a complimentary nail trim.
  • All cats and dogs are monitored as they wake from anesthesia with vital signs being taken one final time prior to their discharge.
  • Discharge instructions are gone over with the owner and they are provided with a digital copy of the dental x-rays as well as tooth brush, toothpaste and a toy to go home.

Happy New Year!!

January 1, 2012 Family Pet Hospital Family Pet Hospital, Newsletters Leave a comment , , , , , , , , , ,

As we welcome the New Year with resolutions, goals and budgets for 2012, let us not forget to include our pet’s needs.

Read below to find how to Save as much at $240 on your pet’s annual care.

Because pets age so rapidly, major health changes can occur in as little as three months. The risk of cancer, diabetes, obesity, arthritis, heart disease and other serious conditions all increase with age. And, because today’s pets are living longer than ever, chances are, many can experience a potentially serious illness during their lifetime. Twice-a-year wellness exams, coupled with annual blood work can help your veterinarian diagnose, treat, or even prevent problems before they become life-threatening.

In accordance with the American Veterinary Medical Association recommendations, we are now offering Wellness Plans suited to your pet’s species, age, and size. Please take a moment to review the benefits of our new Wellness Plans. You will find the Wellness Plans to be the most cost effective method of insuring your furry family member’s health and longevity. The Wellness Plans can be paid in full at the time of purchase or paid in 6 equal monthly payments.

SERVICES INCLUDED IN THE WELLNESS PLAN SAVE 20% ON:

  • Biannual Wellness Exams
  • Vaccinations as needed
  • Adult or Senior Wellness Blood Profile (based on age), includes Heartworm Test and Fecal Test
  • 12 Month Supply of Heartgard®

20% DISCOUNT ON ANNUAL DENTAL CLEANING IF YOU PURCHASE THE WELLNESS PLAN W/DENTAL

ADDITIONAL BENEFITS OF THE WELLNESS PLAN INCLUDE

  • 20% off Frontline® or Certifect® (when purchased at Family Pet Hospital)
  • 20% off all Hills® & Science Diet® Products (when purchased at Family Pet Hospital)
  • 20% off Home Again® Microchip placement & first annual registration fee
  • 20% off Sick Pet Exams

Preparing for a New Pet

December 1, 2011 Family Pet Hospital Family Pet Hospital, Newsletters Leave a comment , , ,

Are you thinking about adding a cat or dog to your household? Perhaps you have a family member or friend that has this wonderful, well-behaved pet; and you’d like to have one too! But, before you rush out, take some time to consider the time, effort, and money that may have been spent to develop and maintain that pet; and the priceless relationship that you too want to enjoy. Just like people, cats and dogs have their own personalities.

We’ve assembled some information below for you to review that may help you find the loyal, furry companion most suited to your lifestyle.

Are you considering adding a pet to your household? Before you buy or adopt, research the breeds that are best suited to your lifestyle. Even with mixed breed dogs, the traits of their ancestors will help comprise their personality, temperament and activity levels. The kitten or puppy that may look adorable and steal your heart, could turn out to be ill-suited for your family. Whatever you do NEVER buy or adopt on impulse. Bringing a pet into your home should be considered a commitment for the lifetime of the pet. Shelters are filled with pets that were never given proper consideration prior to their purchase or adoption. The following two sites will help you identify the breeds which would best fit what you’re looking for in a companion:

For Cats
http://animal.discovery.com/breedselector/catselectorindex.do

For Dogs
http://animal.discovery.com/breed-selector/dog-breeds.html

This information can also be used when adopting a mixed breed cat or dog if you or the shelter can identify, at least in part, what breeds are likely in the animal’s background. There is also genetic testing available for dogs (www.wisdompanel.com) which can help to identify what breeds your dog is comprised of. The testing will also provide information on genetic disease related to the pure breed components of your new mixed breed dog.

Owning a pet can have a financial impact on the household. Even the “inexpensive” cat or dog that you adopted from the shelter, can come with untold medical issues that are initially undetected. Before purchasing or adopting, plan to have a veterinary fund available to take care of the pet’s wellness needs and any major medical issues that may arise. Be prepared before you’re faced with a medical emergency. Remember that you are responsible for your pet’s health. Click on the following link, http://www.aspca.org/adoption/pet-care-costs.aspx, to get an idea of the annual cost of caring for your new pet.

As part of your research, consider your living space before adding a pet. If you’re in a small apartment with no yard, time or inclination to walk a dog, rain or shine, perhaps a cat is the best choice as a companion. A medium or large dog isn’t likely to do well in a small confined space without regular exercose. Even some of the small breed dogs have high energy levels, and would benefit from having a yard where they can run and exercise.

All pets require a time commitment; the amount of time depends on the individual pet. Cats. in general, will require less attention than dogs. However, even the most aloof cat will need some attention as well as its’ daily meals and clean, fresh water. A clean litter box helps to insure that the cat will continue to use it, and not soil around your home.

Dogs generally require much more attention. As with cats, they need their daily meals and clean, fresh water. Since dogs don’t use litter boxes, they either need a yard to go out into or regular walks several times a day. Some dogs can demand a lot of attention, or they may become destructive. Training a dog is another time commitment. A dog that will respond to basic commands will be a much better companion. So many dogs end up in the shelter because their owners never took the time to train them. They can only learn what we teach them. Before adopting or purchasing, consider the time you’ll have available, and be realistic. It may mean the difference between having a loyal, lifetime companion or another dog in the shelter.

Both cats and dogs will require some grooming time. Keep in mind that long haired cats and dogs will require much more brushing to keep them matt free, than their short haired counterparts. It is also a good idea to get your pet used to regular nail trims. This is something that can be done by you or a groomer. There are a few options when it’s time to bathe your pet. You can do it yourself at home, locate a do-it-yourself grooming facility, use a mobile groomer, or take the pet to a grooming salon. Whichever you choose, occasional bathing will help to keep their skin and coat healthy. It is a good idea to get your pet used to being brushed and combed and having its nails trimmed. Ask which brush and comb is best to use for your pet’s coat and start with very short brushing time increasing the length of time gradually. Ideally your pet will begin to look forward to getting the special attention from you.

One last, but vitally important piece of research, is to locate a veterinarian that you are comfortable working with to maintain the health of your new pet. Check with family and friends for referrals. You may choose to stop in for a brief visit to acquaint yourself with the staff before you take your pet in for an appointment. You can use this visit to inquire about cost estimates and any special vaccine or wellness programs available. Here at Family Pet Hospital, in an effort to make the pets’ wellness more affordable while providing quality care, Dr. Sura has put together Prepaid Puppy and Kitten Packages as well as Wellness Plans for Adults and Seniors.

Once you’ve determined your financial abilities, time and space availability, and have some general guidelines on a suitable pet through research, it’s time to go in search of your new companion. When that right someone is found, you’ll want to be prepared for their arrival into their new home. Ideally having the appropriate collar, leash, food and water bowls as well as a bed, carrier or crate ahead of time will lessen the turmoil when the pet arrives in his/her new home.

When you purchase your crate for the dog, make sure that it allows for at least enough room to stand up and turn around. The crate should be a safe place for your dog to retreat to comfortably. Initially placing treats inside the crate as a reward for entering reinforces that it is a good place. Also allowing the dog to enter and exit freely at first helps reduce the sense of being a placed in confinement. Dogs are den animals and with a crate, you’re providing a den, a dog’s safe haven. If you use the crate as an aid for housebreaking, you’ll want to make sure that while following the guidelines of adequate space to stand up and turn around, you’ll not want to allow for much additional space. The reason for this, is that most dogs will not soil where they sleep. While giving adequate space to stand up and move about a bit, you don’t want to leave a portion that can be used as a potty area and then be avoided.

Here are some of important things to remember regarding crating your puppy or dog.

  • Puppies have small bladders, and must be allowed “potty time” in a designated area after meals and at least every few hours throughout the day. Crating a puppy for too long, may force him or her to soil the area where they sleep and make housebreaking a more difficult job. Puppies need also socialization, play, exercise, and training time.
  • Even adult dogs should not be crated for extended periods of time. They too require potty, play, and exercise time.
  • Do not leave a collar or harness on your dog when crated. They risk getting the collar stuck and being strangled in the struggle to free themselves.
  • Always provide water for your dog when crated.

You’ll want to have a carrier for your cat or kitten to use as transport for veterinary appointments, or any other time your cat leaves home with you. The carrier should provide adequate space for the cat to stand up and turn around. If you carry your cat in your arms with no restraint, there is a risk of the cat being startled and running off in fear. To avoid potential disaster, the use of a carrier is the best, safest method for transporting your cat.

No matter how careful we are, accidents can happen. You could find that your cat or dog escaped through an open door or gate. Realizing that your pet is missing elicits an immediate sense of panic and fear. Providing your pet with identification allows for the best opportunity to have him/her returned to you. Tags attached to the collar with the pet’s name and your contact information are one form of identification. However, collars can pull off, or your pet can get out at a time when he or she isn’t wearing their collar. Having both cats and dogs microchipped (www.homeagain.com) provides the permanent solution to identification. If someone finds your pet, a quick trip to a veterinary clinic to check for a microchip will immediately identify the pet and his/her owner. The one caveat here, is that you will want to remain current on your annual renewal to the microchip company, and be certain that they are made aware of any change of address or phone number.

Your puppy or dog will need a collar and leash to be able to go for walks. When purchasing a collar, be certain that it fits properly. You should be able to have two fingers between the dog’s neck and the collar to be sure that there is adequate space so that the collar isn’t choking the dog. A collar that is too loose of a fit will pull over the dog’s head and not provide the containment control intended. When selecting a leash, choose one that you can hold on to comfortably. The leash that allows for the least amount of control is the retractable leash. Use of this type of leash is not advisable for any dog or puppy.

If you want to put a collar on your cat, the breakaway collar is advised. Cats climb and jump and their collars can easily get caught on things in the process. The breakaway collar will release and avoid possible strangulation.

Look for food and water bowls made from stainless steel. The advantage with stainless steel is they are unbreakable and nonporous. The use of ceramic bowls in cats is the most common cause of feline acne.

Not everyone enjoys sharing their bed with their cat or dog. It can get especially crowded if you have a multiple pet household. A soft, comfortable bed will give your pet a place of its own to sleep.

Toys will help to keep your cat or dog entertained and exercised. You can find some toys for them to entertain themselves, or interactive toys for you to play with your pet. When purchasing pet toys, make certain that they are safe for your particular pet. You might not want to give a stuffed toy to a dog that has a penchant for eating clothing or other inappropriate items. A sturdy Kong might be a better choice in this case. Cats also require scratching posts to keep them from scratching on your furniture.


Caution!! Holiday Hazards Ahead

November 1, 2011 Family Pet Hospital Family Pet Hospital, Newsletters Leave a comment , , , , ,

November has arrived!! That means that the holidays are just around the corner. It’s a busy time of year with holiday baking, shopping, and gatherings with family and friends. Maintaining our normal schedule is almost impossible. We get so busy that we may not be as attentive as usual to our furry family members. But when those soulful eyes catch ours, we’re reminded that this is the time of year that we need to take extra precautions to keep them safe from Holiday Hazards.

HOLIDAY FOODS – Entertaining for the Holidays usually means that there is an abundance of food and goodies to be enjoyed by all. But even small amounts of these foods can be disastrous for your pets. Chocolate, onions, kale, grapes, and raisins are among the food items that are toxic to pets. Bones, especially from a turkey or chicken, can splinter and can cause damage to your pets’ digestive system. Fatty meats, gravies, poultry skin and alcohol can cause illness accompanied with vomiting, diarrhea, or severe pancreatitis.

HOLIDAY DECORATIONS – Christmas trees come with a number of potential problems. Whether real or artificial, trees falling on a curious pet can cause serious injuries. If the pet is lucky enough to come out unscathed, it can create quite a mess for you to clean up. But falling trees aren’t the only problem. Pine needles, if ingested, can puncture holes in the pets’ intestines. Treated water in real tree stands may contain antifreeze, or other toxic chemicals that can prove lethal. Do not use aspirin to treat the water. Even untreated water that sits stagnant can harbor harmful bacteria. Artificial snow sprayed on trees can also be toxic. Fragile ornaments can shatter and cause damage to the pet’s mouth or paws. Tinsel, garland, and tree lights might also be inviting to pets that may view them as toys. If ingested, these items can cause intestinal blockage or puncture the digestive system. You might want to consider finding a way to keep the pets that just can’t resist the Christmas tree and its decorations, separated with the use of gates or other deterrents. Additionally, decorative snow globes often contain antifreeze, which is poisonous to pets.

CANDLES – Candles should be kept out of the way of pets at all times. A wagging tail, a curious nose, or an excited pet running past a lit candle could cause it to tip over starting a fire.

HOLDIAY PLANTS – If ingested holly, mistletoe, poinsettias and lilies can be poisonous. If you decorate with live plants, keep them out of your pet’s reach.

HOLIDAY GUESTS – With all of the holiday festivities and preparations, we can get stressed, and so can our pets. In the turmoil, we can lose tract of our pets’ whereabouts. It is important to take extra precautions during this busy time of year as guests arrive and depart making sure that a pet doesn’t get out of the house unnoticed. If you have a pet that likes sneaking past you through open doors, you may want to consider leashing or putting the pet in another room as people come and go as a precaution.

Again, pets also get stressed. If they’re not used to being around children or large groups of people, you’ll want to take that into consideration if you’re having a large holiday party. Separating your pet by putting it in a quieter area of the house will help ease his or her stress and anxiety.

Ask your guests not to feed your pets any table foods. You may consider making available a small portion of kibble or a few treats for those guests that just can’t resist those pleading eyes.

GIFTS & WRAPPING – Your pet may not recognize that the special toy that’s just been unwrapped isn’t his or hers. Aside from having an unhappy child whose new toy is now ruined, the pet could end up with major problems. Vomiting, diarrhea or intestinal blockages can occur from pets ingesting toy parts. Rubber balls, small plastic pieces and styrofoam pose choking hazards. Ingested plastic or cloth toys often need to be removed surgically.

The festive ribbons and bows that adorn the packages, if ingested, can also pose a threat to a pet’s digestive system.

Thinking ahead and taking the necessary precautions to keep everyone, including family pets, safe will ensure a happy holiday season for all.


October Is National Pet Wellness Month

October 1, 2011 Family Pet Hospital Family Pet Hospital, Newsletters Leave a comment , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

OCTOBER 13TH IS NATIONAL PET OBESITY AWARENESS DAY

TWICE A YEAR FOR LIFE is the motto for National Pet Wellness Month. National Pet Wellness is the educational initiative designed to raise awareness about the pet aging process, disease prevention and the importance for twice-a-year Wellness Exams for all dogs and cats.

Our pets age much faster than we do. Many physical changes can take place in a very short time; some may go unnoticed by the owner. This is why the American Veterinary Medical Association advises pet owners to bring their pets in to their veterinarian twice a year for Wellness Exams. Twice-yearly exams help your veterinarian diagnose, treat, and ideally prevent problems before they become serious.

However, insuring wellness for your pet isn’t just about exams and vaccinations. Wellness includes working to maintain a healthy diet and weight, keeping teeth clean to avoid dental disease, bloodwork, utilizing the other preventive measures like Heartgard and Frontline, and blood pressure checks for at risk animals. Preventive Medicine is the most cost effective method to help your pet live a long and healthy life.

When your pet comes to see Dr. Sura for a Wellness Exam, she performs a nose to tail inspection. Upon your arrival the pet is weighed. Significant changes in weight, either up or down, may indicate a medical problem. The veterinary technician will then get a current history by asking you questions about diet, activity level and inquire about any noticeable changes in behavior. Temperature, pulse, respiration are also taken at this time. Prior to seeing your pet, Dr. Sura reviews the medical history from previous visits along with the current information provided. On examination, she looks for any signs of concern or changes in the pet’s physical condition. Listening to the heart and lungs, examining eyes, ears, and mouth and palpating the pet’s abdomen will provide Dr. Sura with additional information that is likely to be undetectable by the owner. The Wellness Exam is the first step in Preventive Medicine.

Annual Bloodwork will provide Dr. Sura with insight into your pet’s organ function. In puppies, kittens and young animals bloodwork will detect parasitic and congenital conditions. It also provides a baseline for organ function which may be useful when assessing future health issues. Early detection can make a tremendous difference in adding years to your pet’s life. If detected early, 75 % of common diseases in dogs and 63% of common diseases in cats can be prevented by dietary modifications alone over a one-year period.

  • Kidney disease is one of the major causes of illness and death in dogs and cats, but symptoms do not usually appear until 2/3 of kidney function has been lost. If caught early, the animal can live with this condition for many years.
  • If a Liver problem is detected at an early stage of the disease and proper treatment is given, the chance of your pet’s recovery is favorable.
  • Early detection of Diabetes is extremely important because an early therapy regimen can be more effective and easier on the animal. Detecting and monitoring diabetes early can also prevent damage to other organs.
  • Annual Bloodwork is also needed to monitor for possible side effects when your pet is on a chronic medication or monitor blood levels of certain medications. Animals may develops problems related to the administration of a chronic medication that necessitate alterations to their treatment plan, or they may need to have supplement levels adjusted with time.

Diet is another very important piece in maintaining your pet’s health and wellness. Not all pet foods are created equal. Because of their continuous nutritional research and innovation, Hill’s Science Diet is the food that Dr. Sura recommends. When your pet comes in for an examination, their body weight, age, size and medical conditions are considered before a specific diet is suggested. Hill’s Science Diet has very specific formulations to support the nutritional needs of every pet. Feeding your pets a diet with the appropriate nutritional balance and maintaining a healthy weight will help them live a full, happy life.

Dental Health is another vital piece in maintaining a healthy pet. Your pet could be suffering with mouth pain from excessive tartar, periodontal disease or tooth decay. Eating may be difficult and painful. Dental disease can also cause organ damage, specifically to the kidneys; liver, and heart. An annual dental for your pet will help maintain a healthy mouth and fresh breath, while thwarting needless organ damage caused by dental disease.


Scottsdale Vet: Family Pet Hospital is a veterinarian animal hospital in Scottsdale, AZ that provides vet exams, affordable wellness plans for dogs & cats, hospital services, surgery, dentistry, canine vaccinations, feline vaccinations, emergency and referral services, along with a full suite of x-ray, lab and diagnostic services.

Family Pet Hospital proudly serves the Phoenix metropolitan communities of Scottsdale, Phoenix, Chandler, Gilbert, Glendale, Mesa, Peoria, Surprise, Tempe, Apache Junction, Avondale, Buckeye, Casa Grande, El Mirage, Eloy, Florence, Fountain Hills, Goodyear, Maricopa, Paradise Valley, and Queen Creek.

Arizona Veterinary Medical Association American Veterinary Medical Association