HEARTWORM

• In 2005, we had 73 positive cases of heartworm disease.  Three of those cases resulted in deaths.
• In 2006, we had 81 positive heartworm cases.  Sadly, six of those cases resulted in death.
• In 2007, we had 64 positive cases, five of which resulted in death.
• So far in 2008 we have seen 2 positive cases already.

Be sure to discuss heartworm testing and heartworm prevention at your next visit.  Check out our pet library  for more information about heartworm disease.

Skunk Spray Remedies

There are a number of remedies that work for removing skunk smell from a dog.  Here is a home-brewed recipe that works best.

Mix 1 quart of hydrogen peroxide, 1/4 cup of baking soda, and 1 teaspoon of liquid soap.  While the mixture is bubbling, wash your dog.  Rinse with tap water.

NEVER store this mixture in a closed container!

In addition, here are a few other ideas that work:

• Vinegar bath
• Tomato juice bath
• A rag soaked in vanilla extract

Latest Information on Food Recalls

Visit the following websites for more information on the latest pet foods to be recalled:

US Food & Drug Adminstration (lists ALL pet food recalls)

IMPORTANT FOOD RECALL

A huge pet food recall was announced, Friday , March 16, 2007.  Since then other companies have issued recalls for certain pet foods.  If you have any questions at all concerning your pets health please do not hesitate to call us.  If you have questions regarding a particilar brand of food it is best to contact the pet food company directly.

If your pet food is included in a recall:

1. STOP FEEDING THE FOOD.  Even if your pet is acting normal do not feed the food.
2. Change to feeding something that is not on the recall list, or you may feed boiled hamburger/chicken & rice.
3. Contact the pet food company if you have questions about the recall itself.

Signs of kidney failure include: lethargy, decreased appetite, vomiting and increased thirst. 

If your pet is showing signs or you are concerned please call us right away to set up an appointment so we may examine and run blood work to check the kidneys.