by harbor21 | Sep 2, 2021 | Dogs, Food, Tips
ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center (APCC)
The ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center (APCC) (aspca.org/pet-care/animal-poison-control) is your premier resource for any poison-related emergency, available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. If you suspect your pet has ingested a poisonous substance, please call (888) 426-4435. A $65 consultation fee may be applied to your credit card. The APCC also offers valuable information to help pet owners identify potentially hazardous substances, including plants, human foods, and human medications.
Chocolate Toxicity Meter
Chocolate contains methylxanthines, such as caffeine and theobromine, which are highly toxic to dogs. Generally, the darker and more bitter the chocolate, the greater the risk. The Chocolate Toxicity Meter (petmd.com/dog/chocolatetoxicity) can help you assess the risk to your dog after accidental chocolate ingestion.
Pet Nutrition Guidelines
The following resources provide information on pet food recalls and tools to help you select appropriate food for your pet:
- The Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO) is an organization of local, state, and federal agencies responsible for regulating pet foods and animal drug remedies. Their website offers practical guidance on pet nutrition.
- FDA.org (FDA.org) provides updated information on pet food recalls directly from the FDA.
General Health & Wellness
The following websites offer valuable information regarding your pet’s health, including dental care, behavior, general well-being, and common diseases:
- Founded in 1991, the Veterinary Information Network, Inc. (VIN) is the veterinary profession’s leading online resource. VIN provides essential tools for veterinary professionals and extends its commitment to animal well-being through its client education website.
Career Opportunities
We welcome resumes from dedicated and compassionate veterinary professionals. If you are seeking a collaborative environment that fosters growth and development, please apply. We are an equal opportunity employer committed to creating a welcoming atmosphere for both employees and patients.
by harbor21 | Sep 2, 2021 | Dogs, Food, Tips
Our facility stands out as the premier choice for pet owners due to our convenient location, specialized care, and a team of well-trained, compassionate staff. We treat every pet as our own, aiming to make their stay with us as comfortable and enjoyable as possible, truly a home away from home. We go above and beyond to meet all your pet’s needs during their visit. You can specify individual requirements such as medication administration, bathing, or even a medical procedure, and we’ll ensure they are met. Our climate-controlled environment guarantees your pet’s relaxation and comfort, regardless of the reason for their stay!
Why should I board my pet?
Whether you are planning to travel for a few days or a few months, consider boarding your pet during your trip. Your mind will be at peace knowing that your pet is being taken care of in a safe and secure environment.
by harbor21 | Aug 3, 2021 | Tips
Did you know that pet dental health issues and periodontal disease is a growing epidemic? Over 70% of cats and 85% of dogs have dental disease by the age of 3.
Preventing periodontal disease is crucial for a longer, healthier life for your pet. Common indicators of this disease include bad breath, excessive drooling, fractured teeth, reluctance to eat or play with toys, and pawing or rubbing of the face. Poor oral health can also lead to sneezing and eye infections. Periodontal disease can progress to tooth decay and gingival infections, allowing bacteria to enter the bloodstream and potentially damage vital organs such as the liver, kidneys, and heart.
- Stage 1: Characterized by red, swollen gums and plaque accumulation on teeth.
- Stage 2: Presents with bad breath, plaque, and calculus on teeth; damage is reversible at this stage.
- Stage 3: Involves severe plaque and calculus accumulation, bleeding gums, bad breath, and permanent damage.
- Stage 4: Marked by gingivitis, bleeding gums, pus, severe bad breath, tooth root exposure, and tooth loss, indicating permanent damage.
Home Dental Health Routine
Establishing a home dental care routine for your pet is an essential first step. Familiarizing yourself with the appearance of a healthy mouth will help you identify early signs of oral diseases. Introducing mouth handling at an early age will accustom your pet to the process, fostering a lifetime of good habits. Brushing your pet’s teeth is as vital as brushing your own. Pet-specific toothpaste, soft-bristled brushes, and treats designed to combat plaque and tartar accumulation are available in our in-house pharmacy or through our online pharmacy.
Dental Do’s and Dental Don’ts
- Do: Begin brushing with a pet-specific toothpaste using your finger or a pet finger toothbrush to acclimate your pet to having something in their mouth, gradually progressing to a toothbrush designed for pets.
- Do: Aim for daily dental home care. Brushing is preferred, but on days when brushing isn’t possible, provide a dental chew.
- Don’t: Use human toothpaste on your pet.
- Don’t: Attempt to clean the inner surface of your pet’s teeth, as their tongue and saliva naturally clean this area.
- Don’t: Consider dental home care an alternative to a full professional dental cleaning if your pet has advanced dental disease. Even a Stage 1 dental score requires professional veterinary care to restore your pet’s teeth to a healthy condition.
Pet Dental Visits with a PetCare Veterinarian
As part of every wellness visit, it is crucial that your pet receives an oral examination to assess their oral health status. Similar to humans, annual professional dental cleanings are key to keeping your pet pain-free and healthy. Dental X-rays should be performed periodically to detect dental diseases not visible to the naked eye. If dental disease is advanced, an anesthetic dental cleaning will be necessary. Pathology below the gum line will be revealed through full-mouth X-rays, which are conducted under anesthesia.
PetCare Animal Hospital is dedicated to serving Haughton and the surrounding communities, always providing the most compassionate care possible. We have trained veterinary dentists and a passionate veterinary team equipped to handle emergencies, wellness exams, routine dental work, and everything in between. Call us today at 318-390-7561 to schedule an appointment and check on your pet’s dental health.
by harbor21 | Aug 3, 2021 | Dogs, Food, Tips
What is K-Laser Therapy?
K-Laser therapy utilizes specific wavelengths of red and near-infrared light to create beneficial therapeutic effects. The device’s power can be modulated and pulsed without negatively impacting normal tissue.
Conditions Treated by K-Laser
The K-Laser is an FDA-cleared Class IV programmable laser designed to deliver therapeutic power strong enough to promote healing in diseased and damaged tissues, thereby alleviating pain and reducing inflammation. Promising results have been observed in treating various conditions, including:
- Acute painful muscle, tendon, or joint injuries
- Arthritis
- Painful spinal conditions (e.g., pinched nerves)
- Dermatitis
- Oral infections
- Wounds
- Ear infections
Distinction Between K-Laser and Other Laser Therapy Devices
Unlike Class III or “cold lasers,” which typically range from 5 to 500 milliwatts, the K-Laser is a high-powered therapeutic device with an adjustable output from 100 to 6,000 milliwatts. This extensive power range allows for a broader array of treatment protocols. The K-Laser system achieves a level of power and penetration not attainable with cold laser devices.
Patient Experience During K-Laser Therapy
K-Laser therapy is generally well-tolerated, causing minimal sensation. Patients typically experience no pain or discomfort, and anesthesia is not required. Some individuals may report a slight warming or tingling sensation during the procedure.
Treatment Frequency for K-Laser Therapy
The number of necessary treatments varies depending on the patient and the specific condition being addressed. However, 6-10 sessions are typically sufficient to achieve treatment goals, with positive results often noted after the initial few treatments. Each K-Laser session lasts approximately 2 to 10 minutes, depending on the size and nature of the treated area. Chronic cases may require periodic booster treatments following the initial treatment plan.
by harbor21 | Aug 3, 2021 | Food, Tips
Wellness Exams
Regular wellness physical exams allow our veterinarians to evaluate your pet’s general health and become aware of any health problems before they become serious illnesses. Since your pet cannot vocalize his/her feelings, you must rely on regular physical examinations by a veterinarian and your at-home observations to assess your pet’s health.
Routine blood testing, urinalysis (urine testing) and other tests are recommended for all pets in their “senior years.” Your veterinarian may recommend these tests and x-rays for younger pets to establish baseline information, which can detect disease before your pet becomes ill or can be used for comparison as your pet ages.
How often does my pet need a wellness exam?
Every year for a dog or cat is equivalent to five to seven human years, so it is important that your pet receives a wellness exam at least every year; Even more often when they enter their senior years! Many aspects of your pet’s health can change in a short amount of time, so make sure your pet does not miss even one exam.
Similar to people, pets need to visit the veterinarian more often as they get older in order to prevent and treat illnesses that come with age. The American Animal Hospital Association recommends that healthy dogs and cats visit the veterinarian once a year for a complete exam and laboratory testing. Healthy senior dogs and cats should receive a wellness exam and lab testing every six months. Depending on your pet’s age and health, your veterinarian will suggest an appropriate physical examination schedule to help keep your pet in tip-top shape.
What can I expect during my pet’s wellness examination?
Your veterinarian will need a complete history of your pet’s health, so don’t forget to mention any unusual behavior that you have noticed in your pet such as:
- Any coughing or difficulty breathing
- Loose stools, diarrhea and/or vomiting
- Eating more or less than usual
- Excessive drinking or urinating
- Excessive scratching and itchiness
Your veterinarian will also want to know about your pet’s daily behavior, including his diet, how much water he drinks and his exercise routine. For example, your veterinarian may ask:
- Does your pet have trouble getting up in the morning?
- Does your pet show signs of weakness or imbalance?
- Does your pet show an unwillingness to exercise?
- Does your pet show signs of stress or aggravation?
- Does your pet run a risk of exposure to fleas, ticks, heart worms and intestinal parasites?
Getting a thorough history will help your veterinarian develop an individualized treatment and/ or preventative health care plan specifically for your pet.
Vital Signs
Your veterinarian or a veterinary technician will typically obtain your pet’s temperature, pulse, respiration (breathing) rate and body weight at the beginning of an exam.
If your pet has lost weight since his last physical exam, they may be experiencing the early stages of metabolic disease such as kidney disease or diabetes. If your pet has gained weight since his last exam, your veterinarian will work with you to develop an appropriate diet and exercise plan to return your pet to a healthier weight. Weight is an important consideration in your pet’s health — an extra two or three pounds could mean the difference between your pet being fit and healthy or obese and at risk!
Ears
Your veterinarian may ask if your pet has been shaking their head or scratching at their ears, and if you have noticed an odor coming from your pet’s ears. Your pet’s ear canals protect their inner ear, but can also become a home for infectious bacteria, troublesome yeast, parasites and other foreign objects. Your veterinarian will closely examine your pet’s ears to make sure they are healthy.
Eyes
Eye examinations often reveal many health issues, including:
- Anemia
- Infections
- Glaucoma
- Cataracts
- High blood pressure
- Jaundice
- and Allergies
- Eye injuries
- Ulcers
Careful observation of the inner structures and outward appearances of the eyes are all part of a proper eye examination.
Mouth
Your veterinarian will attempt to inspect your pet’s gums, teeth, tongue and palate (roof of the mouth) for issues like:
- Tartar buildup
- Dental abnormalities
- Fractures
- Loose teeth
- Tumors
- Infections
- and other problems
For example, similar to people, a lack of red or pink color in your pet’s gums could signal anemia. Your veterinarian will discuss the importance of regular at-home and professional teeth cleaning to prevent periodontal disease, which can cause bad breath, a painful mouth, and tooth loss.
Heart and Lungs
Your veterinarian will use a stethoscope to listen to your pet’s heart and lungs for early signs of heart and lung disease.
Reproductive Organs
If your pet has not been spayed or neutered, your veterinarian may discuss with you the many health benefits of spaying/neutering. Your veterinarian will check your pet’s reproductive system for any swelling, abnormal discharge, or breast lumps.
Skin
Did you know your pet’s skin is the largest organ of their body and a good gauge of their health? Hair loss and skin changes can indicate a more serious internal disease problem. Your veterinarian will check your pet’s skin and hair for fleas, ticks, other external parasites, as well as signs of allergies, infection, warts, and tumors.
From Head to Toe
Your veterinarian will palpate (feel) your pet’s entire body for abnormalities, including enlarged organs, masses or painful areas, to detect problems with the head, neck, chest, stomach, intestines, kidneys, liver and other organs. Your veterinarian will also examine your pet’s legs and feet and the condition of your pet’s joints, muscles, lymph nodes, and tail (assuming your pet has one). They may recommend additional testing to diagnose or verify a health problem if any abnormalities are found during your pet’s thorough examination.
Vaccination
Vaccinations are one of the most important preventive measures you can take for the health of your pet. Dogs can be immunized against distemper, hepatitis, leptospirosis, parainfluenza, parvovirus, coronavirus, bordetella, rabies, Lyme disease, and canine influenza. Cats can be immunized against feline panleukopenia (distemper), rabies, feline rhinotracheitis, calicivirus, chlamydia, and feline leukemia.
How frequently you should have your pet vaccinated against certain diseases depends on many factors, including where your pets lives or will live, so talk to your veterinarian to understand what is recommended for your pet’s unique environment and lifestyle. Do not underestimate the importance of taking your pet to the veterinarian for regular wellness examinations. Someone (probably a veterinarian) once said, “An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.” These regular examinations will help your pet live a longer and healthier life, so do your part to care for your furry friend!
by harbor21 | Aug 3, 2021 | Dogs, Food, Tips
PetCare Animal Hospital is committed to providing our clients access to the top diagnostic laboratories in the country to ensure that their pets wellness status or illnesses are diagnosed correctly. New medical diagnostics are constantly being discovered while existing ones are continually being improved; therefore, we are always assessing and incorporating the latest innovations in diagnostic testing.
Here are a few of the more common diagnostic tests we perform:
1. Complete Blood Count (CBC)
A Complete Blood Count shows a complete picture of all of the cells that circulate in the blood. This test helps diagnose anemia, infections, and leukemia among other disorders. It is an important screening test for your pet’s annual wellness examination.
2. Blood Chemistries and Profiles
The results of Blood Chemistries and Profiles reveal the health of all the major organs in the patient’s body (including the heart, liver, and kidneys) in addition to detecting hormonal abnormalities that may be present. This is also recommended as part of your pet’s annual wellness examination to ascertain the general health of your pet.
3. Urinalysis
Also known as Complete Urine Analysis, a Urinalysis is important in determining the health of your pet’s complete urinary system (including the kidneys and the urinary bladder). It aids in detecting urinary tract infections, which are very common and can remain undetected without proper testing. A urinalysis is also recommended as part of your pet’s annual wellness screening.
4. Heart Worm Testing
This test, performed annually, now tests for much more than just heart worms. Several important diseases transmitted by ticks, including Lyme Disease, are accurately detected using this latest technology.
5. Fecal Testing
Also performed annually, Fecal Testing detects the presence of parasitic worms as well as identifying other microscopic organisms that cause acute and chronic gastrointestinal problems.
6. Cytology
The microscopic examination of your pet’s skin, or “lumps and bumps”, is performed in our in-house laboratory by our doctors and trained staff. We also send cytology samples to specialized laboratories that have been determined to be the best in diagnosing particular diseases should the need arise.
7. Histopathology
The microscopic examination of your pet’s skin, “lumps or bumps”, or any abnormal tissue that has been biopsied or removed from your pet is sent to (and performed by) expert laboratories to identify the cause and severity of the suspected condition.
8. Bacterial Culture and Sensitivity
Bacterial Culture and Sensitivity testing is performed when an infection does not respond to current treatment or is suspected to be a more serious infection or chronic problem. The report identifies the bacteria that is causing the infection and tells us the best antibiotic to use to combat the infection. The laboratories that perform this service for us are staffed with experts in bacterial and fungal infections.
9. Surgical Procedures
Our Surgical Procedures suite is fully equipped with the latest in monitoring and life-saving systems for routine and specialty surgeries. At PetCare Animal Hospital, your pet’s safety and comfort is our top priority. Inside our state-of-the-art surgical suite, all animals under anesthesia are closely monitored with specialized equipment such as:
- Pulse Oximetry Measuring Oxygenation
- ECG Machines
- Continuous Blood Pressure Monitoring
- Temperature Probes
- Newly developed equipment to maintain body heat
and most importantly,
- A surgical nurse evaluating these monitors and your pet during the entire surgery
Using state-of-the-art machines and monitoring devices, we can adjust the anesthesia based equipment readings to ensure your pet’s safety under our care.
Before surgery, pre-anesthetic blood screening is evaluated to give us a more complete picture of your pet’s internal health. This allows us to create the safest anesthetic protocol to meet your pet’s specific needs. Each patient has pre-medications tailored to each individual patient to ensure their safety and comfort. Surgical incisions are treated with a Class 4 K-Laser immediately after surgery to promote healing and decrease pain at the incision site. After your pet’s surgery, they are recovered individually and placed in our surgical recovery area, allowing us to continuously monitor them in a controlled environment.
