• Rescue alert sticker – A free rescue alert sticker from the ASPCA offers valuable information about your pet including the species, breed, and name as well as contact information for your veterinarian. Be sure to apply this sticker in a highly visible spot for rescue workers in case of an emergency evacuation.
• Plan for emergency shelter for your pet – Surrounded by chaos, the last thing you want to worry about is finding a safe place for your furry friend. Not all disaster shelters accept pets; so decide where you will take your pet ahead of time. Make plans with family or friends, or create a list of recommended boarding facilities in advance of a disaster.
• Supplies and travel necessities – Keep these supplies clearly labeled and stored in a kit that is easy to carry. Be certain that all members of the house know where these supplies will be stored.

1. Pet First Aid Kit
2. Copies of your pet’s medical records
3. Two week’s supply of necessary medications
4. One week’s supply of canned/dry food
5. One week’s supply of bottled water
6. Paper towels, disinfectant, small disposable garbage bags
7. Collar, Leash and ID Tags (as well as recent photos of your pet should you become separated)
8. Crate or carrier, and a snuggly blanket
9. Disposable litter and litter tray
10. Toys, toys, toys!

Be sure to supplement this list by creating an emergency kit for the humans in your family too!

• Arrange temporary and permanent caregivers – When choosing a temporary caregiver, consider someone who lives close to your residence. He or she should be someone who is generally home during the day while you are at work or has easy access to your home. A set of keys should be given to this trusted individual. This may work well with neighbors who have pets of their own—you may even swap responsibilities, depending upon who has accessibility. When selecting a permanent caregiver, you’ll need to consider other criteria. This is a person to whom you are entrusting the care of your pet in the event that something should happen to you. When selecting this “foster parent,” consider people who have met your pet and have successfully cared for animals in the past. Be sure to discuss your expectations at length with a permanent caregiver, so he or she understands the responsibility of caring for your pet.
• Evacuation plan - As pessimistic as it may sound, it’s important to plan for the absolute worst! If you think you may be gone for only a day, assume that you may not be allowed to return for several weeks. When recommendations for evacuation have been announced, follow the instructions of local and state officials. To minimize evacuation time, take these simple steps:

1. Store your emergency kit close to an exit
2. Check your pet’s tags to make sure their ID is current, and includes a name, telephone number, and any pertinent medical needs. Include this information on your pet’s carrier as well.
3. Always bring pets indoors at the first sign or warning of a storm or disaster. Pets can become disoriented and wander away from home during a crisis.
4. Consider your evacuation route and call ahead to make arrangements for boarding your pet outside of the danger zone at the first sign of disaster.

Additional Information:

American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA)
Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA)
PetFinder
American Red Cross

Pet-proof your home today to help ensure that 2011 is a safer year for our furry friends!

• Medications: Many medications made for our pets are flavored for ease of giving. Unfortunately, that means that animals may ingest the entire bottle of medication if they find it tasty. The most common culprits include over-the-counter medications (ibuprofen, acetaminophen), antidepressants and ADHD medication. To put it into perspective, as little as one acetaminophen tablet can be fatal to a feline.
• Insecticide: While lawn and garden products do pose a threat to your pet’s health, the most serious cases of insecticide poisoning were the result of the improper use and application of flea and tick preventives. These topical treatments, specified for cat or dog, often list pyrethrins or pyrethroids as active ingredients. These two insecticides are highly toxic. Using medication intended for a canine on your feline friend can prove hazardous to their health since they are more likely to ingest the substance when grooming. Be cautioned that even if you treat your dog with either of these two insecticides, your cat may still lick it off your dog and become contaminated.
• Rodenticides: Baits used to kill mice and rats are mostly grain based, which means they may look like a tempting treat for your pet. Unfortunately, this “treat” can cause internal bleeding, kidney failure, or seizures. Please be mindful when placing traps.
• People Food: Xylitol, grapes, raisins, onions and garlic may be tasty to us, but are harmful for our pets. Grapes and raisins can cause kidney failure in dogs, while onions and garlic can lead to anemia. Xylitol, a substance used to sweeten sugar free gums and mints, can cause low blood sugar and liver failure in dogs. Chocolate contains methylxanthines, which can cause agitation, vomiting, diarrhea, high heart rate, muscle tremors, seizures and even death.
• Plants: With flowers in bloom, it’s important to know that one of the most poisonous plants to your four-legged friend is the common lily. These delicious smelling flowers are common décor in homes, but they also toxic enough to cause fatal kidney failure!
• Household Cleaners: Cleaning supplies, such as bleach, acids, alkalis and other detergents, can cause corrosive injury to the mouth and stomach. Other household items such as batteries and liquid potpourri can cause similar problems. Always keep these toxins behind securely locked doors.

ADDITIONAL RESOURCES:
http://www.aspca.org/pet-care/poison-control/
http://www.aspca.org/pet-care/poison-control/what-to-do-if-your-pet-is-poisoned.aspx
http://pets.webmd.com/cats/slideshow-foods-your-cat-should-never-eat
http://pets.webmd.com/dogs/slideshow-foods-your-dog-should-never-eat

We realize that some pet owners are weary of scheduling a spay or neuter appointment for fear that this procedure will hurt their four-legged pal. The reality is, these procedures are wildly beneficial to your furry companion! Still skeptical? Read on for the bountiful number of benefits spaying or neutering will provide your pet.

Both neutering, removing of a male’s testicles, and spaying, removal of the female’s reproductive organs, are performed while the dog or cat is under anesthesia so the animals do not feel any pain.

If your dog or cat is a new mom to her litter, it is important to know that she can still get pregnant while nursing. It is recommended to schedule a spay procedure just after her babies are weaned, about 4 to 6 weeks.

Though she may not thank you, rest assured that spaying your cat or dog would spare her, and you, the misery of her heat cycles. This will shift her behavior from seeking her prince charming, to being your adoring pet, all while eliminating the mess, nervous behavior, and stray male studs around your home. Oh, did we mention you are also drastically reducing her risk for many types of animal cancer?

Neutering your male dog or cat will reduce his natural urge to fight and spray, all while preventing testicular cancer. You will have an all-around better mannered little man as his hormones balance out, about 6 to 8 weeks post-surgery. He will be friendlier, and less likely to bite or attack. Also, cat lovers will be happy to know that neutered male cats live longer than male cats that are not neutered.

Take it one step further and look at how positively spaying and neutering impacts your community. You are supporting their efforts to control the unwanted animals that account for a majority of the homeless pet population in local shelters, as well as the most vicious bites and attacks reported to animal control.

When you consider all the perks to your pal, the cost to spay or neuter is well worth it. Consider it an investment in your pet’s health, and a big hoorah to you for doing your part to help control the pet population. Contact us today to schedule your pet’s painless spay or neuter procedure.

1. Educate yourself on reporting animal cruelty – Create a list of who to contact should you need to report an incidence. This list should include phone numbers and names of your local humane law enforcement office, your veterinarian, and local rescue shelters. Understand the role each person on your list plays in the investigation, as it varies state to state. Knowing who to call will help ensure that action is taken immediately. Don’t be scared to make the call. Reports from concerned neighbors and citizens save animal’s lives every day.
2. Get involved at an animal shelter – Shelters are dependent on volunteers who care about the welfare of animals. Whether you sign up to foster an abused animal, or simply spare an hour or two a week to clean cages, animal shelters are always looking for compassionate people to help make a difference.
3. Organize a neighborhood watch – Invite your neighbors to join you in raising awareness of companion animals in your neighborhood. Familiarize yourself with your local pet population, and educate one another on reporting any signs of abuse, neglect, or suspicious behavior.
4. Become an advocate for spaying and neutering – Raise awareness of the millions of cats and dogs that are euthanized every year by encouraging friends, neighbors, and family to spay and neuter their pets. Make sure your animals are spayed and neutered, and be aware of any local strays that appear to be on the prowl for potential mates. You may also want to consider adoption when considering adding a pet to your family.
5. Set the standard – Love and care for your pets in a way that serves as an example to others. If you have children, make sure to teach them to respect animals and treat them with kindness. And remember, being a responsible pet owner goes beyond the primary needs of your animal, extending to proper exercise, affection, and health care.

Additional Resources:
www.aspca.org/fight-animal-cruelty
www.americanhumane.org/animals/stop-animal-abuse
www.petside.com/article/5-simple-ways-prevent-animal-cruelty

• Beware of open flames – Pets are generally curious and will investigate cooking appliances, candles, or even a fire in your fireplace. Ensure your pet is not left unattended around an open flame and make sure to thoroughly extinguish any open flame before leaving your home.
• Monitor your stove – Be sure to remove stove knobs or protect them with covers before leaving the house. According to the National Fire Protection Association, a stove or cook top is the number one piece of equipment involved in your pet starting a fire.
• Switch to flameless candles – These candles contain a light bulb rather than an open flame, and take the danger out of your pet knocking over a candle. Cats are notorious for starting fires when their tails turn over lit candles.
• Avoid using glass bowls on wooden decks – Do not leave a glass water bowl for your pet outside on a wooden deck. The sun’s rays when filtered through the glass and water can actually heat up and ignite the wooden deck beneath it. Choose stainless steel or ceramic bowls instead.

Though you can take measures to prevent your pet from starting a fire, it doesn’t entirely remove the possibility of one occurring. So prepare for the worst, and follow these tips to keep your pet safe.

• Keep pets near exits – Keep collars on pets and leashes at the ready in case firefighters need to rescue your pet. When leaving pets home alone, keep them in areas or rooms near entrances where firefighters can easily find them.
• Secure Young Pets – Especially with young puppies, keep them confined away from potential fire-starting hazards when you are away from home such as in crates or behind baby gates in secure areas.
• Consider monitored smoke detectors – Consider using monitored smoke detectors which are connected to a monitoring center so emergency responders can be contacted when you’re not home. These systems provide an added layer of protection beyond battery-operated smoke alarms.
• Use a Pet Alert window cling – Write down the number of pets inside your house and attach the static cling to a front window. This critical information saves rescuers time when locating your pets. You can request a FREE pet rescue window decal from the ASPCA by following this link: www.aspca.org/about-us/free-aspca-stuff/free-pet-safety-pack.aspx.

1. Examine the cat’s eyes. They ought to be bright, clear, and free of discharge.
2. Check the their nose. Healthy noses are slightly moist and clean.
3. Listen for any breathing problems like wheezing, sneezing, or coughing.
4. Examine the cat’s ears. Kittens can carry ear mites!
5. Check the animal’s fur for fleas, ticks, and overall cleanliness and luster.

 
Additional Resources:
www.petfinder.com/before-pet-adoption/thinking-adopting-cat.html
www.aspca.org/adoption/adoption-tips
www.animalleague.org/adopt-a-pet/cats/adopt/

Your pet needs your help to develop good habits. That’s why we’ve put together this list of potential New Year’s resolutions you and your pet can commit to together! Whether it’s brushing your pet’s teeth every day, making sure their meals are meeting their nutritional needs, or engaging in an easy to stick-to exercise routine, a small change can make a big impact on your pet’s life.
We’ve included a few of our favorites below:

Resolve to help your pet lose weight:
Humans aren’t the only ones affected by the obesity epidemic. Our pets’ waistlines are bulging, too. Nearly half our nation’s dogs and cats are overweight or obese, according to a study by the American Journal of Veterinary Research. All that extra weight can increase your pet’s risk for developing diabetes, arthritis, and a host of other ailments exacerbated by extra fat. Although you should always consult a veterinarian before committing to a regimented weight loss program for your pet, there are a few things you can start doing TODAY to battle the bulge:

• Remove your pet from the room when the family eats.
• Feed your pet several small meals throughout the day.
• Feed all meals and treats in the pet’s bowl only.
• Reduce snacks or treats.
• Provide non-food related attention.

Resolve to take better care of your pet’s appearance:
You’re not the only one who likes to be pampered. Make your pet feel like a whole new pooch, or kitty, with a head to tail makeover.

• Dental Care. Bacteria and plaque-forming foods can cause build-up on your pet’s teeth. This can harden into tartar, possibly causing gingivitis, receding gums and tooth loss. We recommend that you brush your canine or feline companion’s teeth every other day for optimal dental health.
• Grooming. Regular grooming sessions with a brush or comb will help keep your pet’s hair in good condition by removing dirt, spreading natural oils throughout their coat, preventing tangles and keeping their skin clean and irritant-free.
• Paw Care. Keep you dog’s paws in tiptop shape with regular nail trimming sessions. Meanwhile, make sure to provide your kitty with a
  scratching post since felines need to scratch to shed their outer nail
  sheaths and reveal the sharp, smooth claws underneath.

Resolve to spend more quality time with your pet:
The greatest gift you can give your pet is quality time together. Spend a few minutes each day playing with your pet. Exercise is essential for your pet’s mental and physical health because it relieves stress and boredom, improves circulation, builds muscle tone and can prevent or reduce behavioral problems.

O Christmas Tree
Securely anchor your Christmas tree so it doesn’t tip and fall, causing possible injury to your pet. This will also prevent the tree water—which may contain fertilizers that can cause stomach upset—from spilling. Stagnant tree water is a breeding ground for bacteria and your pet could end up with nausea or diarrhea should he imbibe.

Tinsel-less Town
Kitties love this sparkly, light-catching “toy” that’s easy to bat around and carry in their mouths. But a nibble can lead to a swallow, which can lead to an obstructed digestive tract, severe vomiting, dehydration and possible surgery. It’s best to brighten your boughs with something other than tinsel.

No Feasting for the Furries
Your average dog will eat almost anything if given the chance, while the majority of cats are picky eaters. But just because your four-legged friend hasn’t done it before, doesn’t mean they won’t sneak a bite of potentially harmful holiday foods if the opportunity presents itself. Make sure to keep your pets away from the table and unattended plates of food, and be sure to secure the lids on garbage cans. Also, be especially careful to keep chocolate and any sweet treats containing xylitol out of paws reach.

Chocolate can contain high amounts of fat and caffeine-like stimulants known as methylxanthines. These compounds cause stimulation of the heart and nervous system. Typically, the darker the chocolate, the higher the potential for clinical problems from methylxanthine poisoning. White chocolate has the lowest methylxanthine content, while baking chocolate contains the highest. As little as 20 ounces of milk chocolate—or only two ounces of baking chocolate—can cause serious problems. Plain, dry unsweetened cocoa powder contains the most concentrated levels of methylxanthines. Depending on the type and amount of chocolate a pet eats, the signs can range from vomiting, increased thirst, abdominal discomfort and restlessness to severe agitation, muscle tremors, irregular heart rhythm, high body temperature, seizures and even death.

It’s important to note that while white chocolate may not have the same potential as darker forms to cause methylxanthine poisoning, the high fat content of lighter chocolates could still lead to vomiting and diarrhea, as well as the possible development of life-threatening pancreatitis, an inflammatory condition of the pancreas.

The artificial sweetener xylitol is likewise potentially fatal if consumed by your pet in large enough quantities. It has the potential to cause a sharp drop in your pet’s blood sugar. This can result in depression, loss of coordination and seizures, and in some cases, liver damage. Xylitol is most commonly found in sugar-free gum. Keep gum out of reach—watch out for open pockets, purses, counter tops, and in the car. Xylitol can also be found in sugar-free (low carb and diabetic) candies, baked goods, some pharmaceuticals and many dental products, including mouthwashes, mints and toothpastes.

Toy Joy
Looking to stuff your pet’s stockings? Choose gifts that are safe.

• Dogs have been known to tear their toys apart and swallowing the pieces, which can then become lodged in the esophagus, stomach or intestines. Stick with chew toys that are basically indestructible, Kongs that can be stuffed with healthy foods or chew treats that are designed to be safely digestible.
• Long, stringy things are a feline’s dream, but the most risky toys for cats involve ribbon, yarn and loose little parts that can get stuck in the intestines, often necessitating surgery. Surprise kitty with a new ball that’s too big to swallow, a stuffed catnip toy or the interactive cat dancer—and tons of play sessions together.

Forget the Mistletoe & Holly
Holly, when ingested, can cause pets to suffer nausea, vomiting and diarrhea. Mistletoe can cause gastrointestinal upset and cardiovascular problems. And many varieties of lilies, can cause kidney failure in cats if ingested. Opt for just-as-jolly artificial plants made from silk or plastic, or choose a pet-safe bouquet.

That Holiday Glow
Don’t leave lighted candles unattended. Pets may burn themselves or cause a fire if they knock candles over. Be sure to use appropriate candleholders, placed on a stable surface. And if you leave the room, put the candle out!

Wired Up
Keep wires, batteries and glass or plastic ornaments out of paws’ reach. A wire can deliver a potentially lethal electrical shock and a punctured battery can cause burns to the mouth and esophagus, while shards of breakable ornaments can damage your pet’s mouth.

House Rules
If your animal-loving guests would like to give your pets a little extra attention and exercise while you’re busy tending to the party, ask them to feel free to start a nice play or petting session.

Put the Meds Away
Make sure all of your medications are locked behind secure doors, and be sure to tell your guests to keep their meds zipped up and packed away, too.

Careful with Cocktails
If your celebration includes adult holiday beverages, be sure to place your unattended alcoholic drinks where pets cannot get to them. If ingested, your pet could become weak, ill and may even go into a coma, possibly resulting in death from respiratory failure.

A Room of Their Own
Give your pet his own quiet space to retreat to—complete with fresh water and a place to snuggle. Shy pups and cats might want to hide out under a piece of furniture, in their carrying case or in a separate room away from the hubbub.

New Year’s Noise
As you count down to the new year, please keep in mind that strings of thrown confetti can get lodged in a cat’s intestines, if ingested, perhaps necessitating surgery. Noisy poppers can terrify pets and cause possible damage to sensitive ears.

Happy Holidays,
The doctors and staff at Brentwood Veterinary Clinic

Tip 1: Change your pet’s exercise habits.

As seasons change and temperatures get chilly, many pet owners become less active outdoors. Owners have the option of venturing into a heated gym to keep fit during the cold months, but what about our pets? Here are some tricks for keeping your pets healthy and fit year round:

• Portion control: Because your dog or cat may be burning fewer calories in the winter months, it may be prudent to lower their calorie intake. This could mean a small decrease in their regular diet, or just watching their treat intake during less active months.
• Exercise: This is easy in the summer but can be difficult as temperatures plummet. Get creative indoors – run your pet around the house, or sign your dog up for doggie daycare a couple of times a week for playtime with friends. And, if you’re still going outside for those walks, make sure it’s not too cold for your pooch. You might want to consider purchasing a doggie coat or sweater.
• Kitty Playtime: Indoor options are easier for cats – have Garfield chase a laser or flashlight – or temp him with a feather to get moving. No matter the temperature, it’s important to keep pets fit year round.

Tip 2: Pay attention to the temperature.

Pets can experience frostbite and hypothermia just like people can. Prevention is key.

• In general, pets shouldn’t be out for prolonged periods of time in temperatures below freezing. Some pets are better suited for colder temperatures than others. Check with your veterinarian about specific breeds and temperature restrictions.
• Hypothermia occurs when your pet’s core body temperature drops significantly below a normal 102 degrees. Signs of hypothermia can include shivering, an increase or decrease in blood pressure and heart rate, lethargy, lack of coordination and even collapse. If your pet has been exposed to cold temperatures, warm his or her body with warm blankets and hot water bottles and consult your veterinarian. Do not use overheated water bottles or rice socks and never use heating pads. These can cause severe thermal burns that may not become evident for 1-3 days after the burn occurs. For a body temperature below 96 degrees your pet will need warm IV fluids and 24-hour care for 1-2 days as the body is re-warmed. Bloodwork will need to be done to monitor organ function as well.
• Frostbite occurs when your pet has been exposed to prolonged periods of cold causing ice crystals to form in the blood and tissues. Signs of frostbite include ice on your pet’s body and limbs, shivering, and a change in tissue color from a normal pink to pale, dark reds or purples and even to black. If you see any of these symptoms in your pet, treat the affected area with warm water, NOT hot water, and consult your veterinarian.

Tip 3: Be aware of what your pets are ingesting.

The winter season brings a lot of dangerous treats and harmful chemicals.

• Antifreeze is a chemical used in the winter months to protect motorized vehicles. Unfortunately, this poisonous chemical is also sweet tasting and pets may lap it up if they find a few drops on the driveway or garage floor. Symptoms include depression, lack of coordination, vomiting, diarrhea, increased thirst, and seizures. If you suspect your pet has ingested a poisonous chemical, see your veterinarian right away.
• Other chemicals used to melt snow can also be toxic to pets. Be aware of what chemicals are being used in and around your home. If left unattended be sure your pet’s play area is chemical free.
• Wintertime also brings holidays filled with tasty treats for people and pets. Remember, many of these treats can be toxic to our pets. According to the Pet Poison Helpline, 97% of the cases involving chocolate toxicity are associated with dogs. Whether you live in a dog or a cat household, keep chocolate and other tasty human treats away from your pets this holiday season.

By following the simple tips above and paying close attention to your pets this season, you and your furry family members will enjoy a happy and healthy winter together!

Safeguard the candy: Unguarded candy poses the biggest threat to your pets. Make sure all candy is stored in a safe place where your pets can’t get to it. Dogs are at greater risk when it comes to the dangers of chocolate because cats are content to merely taste while dogs will chow down on an entire bag of Snickers bars and Hershey’s Kisses before you have time to even realize what’s happening.

Initially, the ingestion of chocolate may upset your pet’s digestive system due to its high fat and sugar content, causing vomiting and diarrhea. Depending on the amount, more dangerous symptoms–including irregular heartbeat, changes in blood pressure, and even seizures–could develop. This is due to a caffeine-like substance in chocolate called Theobromine. All chocolate contains Theobromine, but the darker the chocolate the more Theobromine it contains and the greater a danger it poses to your pets.

Another threat luring in that trick or treat bag is the artificial sweetener Xylitol, which can be fatal to dogs and cats even in very small quantities. Because Xylitol is a sweetener that prevents tooth decay, it’s most commonly found in sugar-free gums and mints. But because of its minimal effect on human blood sugar levels, it’s also used in chocolates and a number of products designed for diabetics or dieters. Unlike chocolate, which is likely to make your pet sick, Xylitol toxicity is life threatening.

Keep your pets safe when trick-or-treaters come calling: When the doorbell rings make sure you’re aware of you pets’ location before you open the door. Because they could dash out of the house, it’s important keep your pets away from the door as you’re doling out candy to the neighborhood kids.

Remove pet costumes as soon as the photos have been taken: Dogs, and cats alike, can get tangled up in Halloween costumes causing unnecessary distress and even injury. Make sure to limit the amount of time your pet spends in his or her costume, and after the photos have been taken do your four-legged friend a huge favor and take off the costume.