Pets as Presents? Things to Consider...

You think you have found the perfect gift: a new puppy in a big red bow for someone you love. Surprise! Think again. Sure, it's the thought that counts, but there are several reasons to avoid giving a new puppy or dog as a present. Bottom line, it's usually not an ideal situation for the dog, nor the new owner.

Dogs as Gifts for Adults

First of all, can you really be sure that this person even wants a new dog? If so, is the receiver actually ready for a dog? If you know this person is a dog lover, but does not already have a dog, there's probably a good reason why. If he or she already owns a dog, perhaps it's not the appropriate time to add another dog to the family. Talk to this person about dog ownership. Maybe you can go as moral support when the time comes to choose a dog. Either way, it's safest to stick with gifts of the non-living and breathing variety.

Dogs as Gifts for Children

The gift of a new dog or puppy is something many kids dream about. Unfortunately, most of these little ones do not realize that with dog ownership comes responsibility. Soon enough, the care of the dog can fall into the hands of mom or dad. If you are not the child's parent, then you really have no place giving that child a new dog unless the parent(s) are on board. If you are a parent of the child, then getting a dog is a family decision. Have a discussion with your child about the responsibilities involved. Examine your household situation so you can choose the right dog for your family.

If a New Dog is Right

If the receiver of the gift is actually in a position to welcome a new dog into the home, there are still some important things to consider. Dogs given as gifts on birthdays and holidays can get caught up in all the hustle and bustle of the events. Sadly, they may be soon forgotten like new toys and games - particularly where kids are concerned. If someone you care about is interested in getting a dog, give a book about dog ownership or a dog accessory as a gift. Discuss plans to go and pick out that new dog or puppy. If the future owner of the dog is part of the decision process, it will be in everyone's favor. It's the best way to start dog and owner off on the right foot.

Holiday Decorations & Pet Safety

It’s about that time of year, the time which brings so many of us joy and happiness.  We slowly begin to decorate our homes, and our trees, ready in time for that special day towards the end of the month.  But what about your beloved pets?  

Here are the top 10 holiday decorations to avoid because of the dangers they pose on your pets.  

LET’S BEGIN…

#10: CHRISTMAS TREES:   this one is a toughy…it’s hard to just not have a tree during the holidays, but dogs and cats tend to jump up when they see a tree, climb up, and try to play with the ornaments, which may lead to the tree falling down.

#9: IMITATION SNOW:  although this looks very neat on the windows of our homes or on our Christmas trees, it can be very hazardous to pets if ingested.

#8: PRESERVATIVES ON YOUR TREE:  chemical preservatives are sometimes used on trees to keep them fresh longer, but because of the chemicals, if your pet licks the tree, or drinks the water, it is extremely poisonous.

#7: EDIBLE ORNAMENTS: candy canes are very festive, and it’s very fun to make homemade ornaments, but if your pet tries to eat it, they will be eating all the sugar, the toxic glue, and potentially some hazardous and poisonous materials.  Place them high on the tree.

#6: LIT CANDLES: Be mindful to keep lit candles far away from pets as they may become curious and either burn themselves or knock over the lit candle.

#5: CHRISTMAS LIGHTS: keep the lights away from the bottom because that makes it very easy for your dog or cat to find a new chew toy.

#4: HOLLY BERRIES: according to the ASPCA, holly berries are considered potentially toxic if consumed in large amount and they may result in gastrointestinal irritation and depression of the central nervous system.

#3: ANGEL HAIR: angel hair is finely spun fiberglass that was used in vintage decorations, but are no longer on the market.  If you have any old decorations made out of angel hair, please don’t use them due to the health concerns.

#2: DELICATE OR TREASURED ORNAMENTS: if you can’t stand the thought of a sentimental ornament breaking, your best bet is to put it somewhere a pet can’t get to.

#1: TINSEL: it is possibly the most dangerous holiday decoration for your pets.  If ingested, even a little strand, may lead to severe illness and even deadly effects of intestinal obstruction.  Stay Away!

Simon's Cat in 'Fowl Play'

Table Foods and Pets

Great Bridge Veterinary Hospital suggests resisting the urge to feed table scraps from your holiday feast to your pets. Ask your guests to refrain too. Make sure your trash containers are secured and pet proofed. Be sure that all alcoholic beverages are properly disposed of as they contain ethanol, which can seriously harm your pet. Those tasty turkey bones can splinter and perforate stomach and other internal organs. Indulging in too much of the other holiday goodies such as grapes, raisins, onions can be toxic or can cause diarrhea and intestinal upsets in the best behaved pets. We want your holiday season with your pets and family to be a happy and safe one!

 

National Mutt Day

Today is National Mutt Day! National Mutt Day is all about embracing, saving and celebrating mixed breed dogs. This is a day to raise awareness of the plight of mixed breed dogs in shelters around the nation and to educate the public about the sea of mixed breed dogs that desperately await new homes. How did you decide that your mixed breed companion was the right pet for you?

 

Testing can uncover hidden health problems in your pet.

Common Medical Conditions in Senior Pets

PET PICTURES WITH SANTA

Bring your pet's in for Pet Pictures with Santa on Thursday December 1st from 5pm to 7pm! We can't wait to see you and your pet's get the holiday season started off with Santa Pictures! 

 

10 THINGS YOU SHOULD DO BEFORE YOU BOARD YOUR DOG!

Dr. Debra Primovic

 

CHECK LIST

Here is a checklist of 10 important steps to consider before boarding your dog. Consideration of each of these items will help you and your dog to have a good boarding experience.

1. Interview - Interview the kennel on the phone. Find out how long they have been in business and ask for references. Use those references. Make a surprise visit or tour the facility before you schedule the boarding. Notice the place is clean, smells, check out where the dogs are boarded, where they are walked and if they seem….happy. Do any dogs have messes in their cages?

2. Look for Recommendations - Talk to a few kennels before you decide where to take your pet. Also, ask your friends or neighbors where they have boarded their pet and what their experiences have been. Recommendations go along way. Don’t go for the cheapest place. Go for the best place.

3. Determine Kennel Requirements - Does your pet need any special vaccines for this kennel? If so, what and when? Do they need a copy of the vaccine record? Can you supply your own food and treats? Can you leave any toys or his favorite blanket? Can you leave your pets leash, collar or harness?

4. Check out Kennel Staff - Find out about the consistency with the staff – is it the same person seeing your dog everyday or someone new? It is someone who knows about pets or a high school student shoveling food into the cages? Does the staff appear competent and do they look like they enjoy working with the dogs?

5. What is the Dog’s Schedule? - How often do they go out? Where are they walked? For how long? Is that enough to make your pet happy? Will you dog interact with other dogs? Is that what you want?

6. Feeding Instructions - Consider taking your dogs own food and request that they kennel only feed his food. Many pets are fed other foods and treats and can develop gastrointestinal upset such as vomiting and or diarrhea. Your pet is already in a new environment which is most likely a bit stressful; so don’t change anything you don’t have to.

7. Contact Information - Ensure that the kennel has your numbers where you can be reached in the case of an emergency. Include your cell phone and any emergency contacts. Plan for the unexpected.

8. Emergency Instructions - Just in case of an emergency, leave instructions on how to proceed. During emergency hours, the kennel may use a certain veterinarian or emergency hospital. During the day, if you want your pet to go to your regular veterinarian – leave your vets name and phone number. Leave instructions on what you do and don’t want and a contact number or credit card number for emergency medical care. If you are not available by phone, make sure they have the authorization to make charges if care is required. You don’t want your pet “waiting” for medical care because of lack of credit card authorization.

9. Medical History - Obtain a copy of your pets pertinent medical record from your vet and give a copy to the kennel. Ideally, this record should include any medications, diagnosed conditions and problems . Include any behavioral quirks e.g. aggressive to other dogs or if he hates cats. Leave information about his tag and microchip numbers.

10. Leave Special Instructions - Make sure you clearly indicate any special instructions. For example, if you pet requires medications, ensure the name of the medication, dose (both in mg and number of pills, and frequency are clearly indicated. Also communicate any special foods or dietary restrictions. Keep the instructions simple with a contact number to call in the case of questions.

Senior Pet Month

November is Senior Pet Month. Do you have an older cat or dog sharing your home? If so, you know the joys of pets who might have less spunk but more soul. Here are five reasons to love a senior pet.
1. Distinguished look
You know how as we age, we are said to look distinguished? The same is true for our pets. I think senior cats project an air of peaceful dignity. And who can resist the precious gray muzzle of an older dog?
2. Laid-back lifestyle
For kittens and puppies, most any time is play time. Older pets, however, don’t need to release all that youthful energy. They are quieter and often content to just watch what’s going on in the living room or outside the window. Cuddling next to you takes precedence over most anything else.
3. Fewer demands
Older pets still need love and attention, but they don’t require babysitting like a frisky puppy or curious kitten. Some older pets have special medical needs, but after all they’ve given us through the years, it’s an honor to take care of them in return.
4. Wisdom of the ages
When I look into the eyes of a senior dog, I see a world of experience and wisdom. Older pets know what to expect, and are generally reliable and even. They require little training since they already know the rules.
5. They might be just like you!
As we get older, our needs and routines change. We might prefer quiet evenings at home rather than going out on the weekends. We still like to exercise, walk, or even run—but sometimes we go at a different pace. We might even nap in our chair occasionally. If you have a senior dog, you might find that he’s just like you!

Client/Team Member Pet Halloween Costumes

Senior Wellness

Did you know that a dog over the age of seven years or a cat over age nine are considered seniors? This means they need a little extra care than a junior pet. Once your pet is considered a senior, it is recommended that they visit us every six months for a wellness exam, so that we can catch any potential problems early. Help us to keep your pet healthy. Call us at 757-547-1600 to schedule your senior pet's senior wellness exam.

Happy Work Anniversary to Stephanie!

Stephanie is a Receptionist at Great Bridge Veterinary Hospital and has been a part of our team for one year. She LOVES her Chihuahuas A LOT...they are her babies. 

Photographs by N.A. Barrett Photography

Wackiest Pet Names of 2011

Ozzy Pawsbourne and Almost-A-Dog top this year's list of quirkiest monikers.
Fido, Spot or Fluffy? For some peculiar pet owners, these names are just too traditional. Although "Bella" and "Max" currently lead the pack as the nation's most popular pet names, thousands of other four-legged friends have much more distinctive names.

So drumroll, please... the 10 Most Unusual Dog and Cat Names for 2011:
Dogs

1. Almost-A-Dog
2. Franco Furter
3. Stinkie Mcstinkerson
4. Sir Seamus McPoop
5. Audrey Shepburn
6. Dewey Decimell
7. Knuckles Capone
8. Beagle Lugosi
9. Shooter Mclovin
10. Uzi Duzi-Du

Cats

1. Ozzy Pawsbourne
2. Mr. Meowgi
3. Murderface
4. Fuglee
5. Scruffernutter
6. Corporal Cuddles
7. Cat Masterson
8. Spam
9. Tape W. Orm
10. Louisiana Purchase

I miss my Mommy!

I love to go camping and hiking and on all kinds of fun trips. My friend, Raven sometimes comes along with me. She is a German Shepherd who is very adventurous. She ran off after a deer on our last hiking trip. I must have taken a wrong turn. I couldn't find Raven and was lost in the mountains for a few days. Someone found me and took me to the shelter. They scanned me for a microchip, but the scanner never beeped to tell them I had a mommy. I wonder why they haven't given me my allergy medications or my pain pills. I'm so itchy and my hips hurt so bad. I want to go home, this is no fun. I bet my mommy is looking for me.... Will I ever go home? 

 

When will we be able to go home?

This is where we belong, in our mommy’s arms or on a soft, fluffy bed. We get our nails done, regular brushing, and perfume galore!

We are spoiled little girls who get our way even though our mommy won’t admit it. We love her so much and the two of us have never been separated! There was one time mommy had to work all day. She dropped us off at grandma’s house but we did not feel like listening to her. She opened the door to get the mail and we ducked out just in time! She tried to catch us, but we are so fast! We chased squirrels, other dogs, people, the mailman… so much fun!

I guess we weren’t fast enough to outrun the dog catcher. We have been separated and told we may not be adopted out together. They keep saying, “Who will want two Chihuahuas who bark and growl at everyone?” They keep saying what bad girls we are because we keep growling, but we are just scared. This is not what we are used to and it’s a frightening place. We are alone now.

When will we be able to go home?

We are sad to announce that Dr. Britt Cohen will be leaving Great Bridge Veterinary Hospital. Dr. Cohen is moving out of the area and we wish him the best of luck! Dr. Britt Cohen received his undergraduate degree in biology pre-veterinary from James Madison University. In 2003, he received his DVM from Ross University. He is a member of several associations including the Greater Peninsula Veterinary Medical Association and the Virginia Academy of Small Animal Medicine. After graduation, Dr. Cohen practiced in Williamsburg, Virginia for 6 years prior to joining the team at Great Bridge Veterinary Hospital in 2009. He enjoys all aspects of general practice but does have special interests in animal behavior and counseling and surgery, particularly soft tissue and orthopedic surgical procedures. Best of luck to Dr. Cohen in his new ventures!

 

Happy Anniversary, Amber!

Happy Anniversary to Amber! She has been a great addition to our team since August 2005! Amber started as a veterinary receptionist and is now the office Manager. We appreciate all of her many contributions to the practice. Stop in today and tell her Happy Anniversary!

 

National Assistance Dog Week

This week is National Assistance Dog Week and we are proud to honor Zephee! The primary objective of the Therapy Dog and han­dler is to provide comfort and companionship by sharing the dog with the patients in hospi­tals, nursing homes and other institutions and wherever else the Therapy Dog is needed. This is done in a way that increases emotional well-being, promotes healing, and improves the quality of life for the people being visited and the staff that cares for these people. A Therapy Dog is a dog with an outstanding temperament, tolerates other animals and gets along with other dogs, wants to visit with people, and loves children. “Zephee” regularly visits Lake Taylor Transitional Care Hospital in Norfolk, VA to spend time with special needs children and adults in the rehabilitation center. Also, she and her handler go to Cedar Road Elementary to read to the children and regularly attends other local community service events.

DISASTER PLANNING TIPS

Whether it’s a large-scale natural catastrophe or an unforeseen emergency that causes you to leave your home temporarily, everyone’s family can benefit from having a household evacuation plan in place before disaster strikes. Every disaster plan must include your pets!

1. If you evacuate your home, DO NOT LEAVE YOUR PETS BEHIND! Pets most likely cannot survive in a disaster by themselves. 1. If they do survive, you may not be able to find them when you return.
2. For public health reasons, many emergency shelters cannot accept pets. Find out, well in advance of needing them, which motels and hotels in your area allow pets. Alternatively, arrange in advance for family or friends to house your pets in case of emergency. Include Great Bridge Veterinary Hospital’s phone number (547-1600) and the Animal Control office number (382-8080) on your list of emergency numbers to call for information regarding pets during a disaster.
3. Ask your veterinarian or a veterinary care team member about microchipping your pet. In the event of separation during a disaster, the microchip placement and pet registration may help you and your pet be reunited easier. Make the microchip part of your family's preparation before disaster strikes. Don't forget to update your registration when your information changes.
4. Prepare a Disaster Kit for your pet. Keep an Evacuation-Pack and supplies handy for your pets. Make sure that everyone in the family knows where it is located. This kit should be clearly labeled and easy to carry. (Visit the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals website (www.aspca.org). Look under “Disaster Preparedness” to order a Free Pet Safety Packet and a Free Pet Rescue Sticker.
To purchase a pet first aid kit and guide book, you can visit the ASPCA store to buy one on-line. Items to consider keeping in or near your pack include:
a. Medications and medical records in a water-proof container
b. Information on feeding schedules and medical conditions
c. First Aid Kit
i. Three to seven days' worth of canned (pop-top) or dry food. Be sure to rotate the food every two months.
ii. Disposable litter trays (Aluminum roasting pans are perfect.)
iii. Paper towels
iv. Liquid dish soap and disinfectant
v. Disposable garbage bags for clean-up
vi. Pet feeding dishes
vii. Extra harness and leash (Note: harnesses are recommended for safety and security.)
viii. Photocopies of feeding schedules, notes on medical conditions, and medical records (with the name of your veterinarian/veterinary hospital) in a waterproof container. Include a two-week supply of any medicine your pet requires. (Remember, food and medications need to be rotated out of your emergency kit—otherwise they may go bad or become useless.)
ix. At least 7 days' worth of bottled water for each person and pet. Store the water in a cool, dry place, and
replace it every two months.
x. A traveling bag, crate or sturdy carrier, ideally one for each
xi. Flashlights
xii. Blankets (for scooping up a fearful pet)
xiii. Especially for cats: Pillowcase or Sack, toys, scoopable litter
xiv. Especially for dogs: Long leash and yard stake, toys and chew toys, a week's worth of cage liner (or
newspaper).
Name and number of your pet’s veterinarian Great Bridge Veterinary Hospital, 1010 Cedar Road., xv.Chesapeake, VA 23322, 757-547-1600, www.greatbridgevet.com
5. You should also have an emergency kit for the human members of the family. Some items to include: Batteries, duct tape, flashlight, radio, multi-tool, tarp, rope, permanent marker, spray paint, baby wipes, protective clothing and footwear, extra cash, rescue whistle, important phone numbers, extra medication and copies of medical and insurance information.
6. Place up-to-date Pet ID tags on your pets and have recent photos of your pets handy in case you are separated and need to make a “Lost” poster.
7. If you have no alternative but to leave your pets at home, there are precautions you MUST take. Remember that leaving your pets at home alone can place them in great danger! Confine your pet to a safe area inside - NEVER leave your pet chained outside! Place notices outside in a visible area stating that pets are inside. List the pets that are inside the house and where the pets are located. Provide a phone number where you or an alternate contact can be reached, as well as the name and number of your veterinarian.
8. For more information:

• Visit Humane Society of the United States at www.hsus.org and click on “Emergency Services.”

• Visit American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals at www.aspca.org and click on “Disaster Preparedness”.

SILVER-Cat Highlight

Silver is owned by Nancy, Licensed Veterinary Technician at Great Bridge Veterinary Hospital. Silver is a three year old domestic cat. He loves playing fetch, chasing the laser pointer and dragging toys until someone will play with him.

At one time, Silver had vestibular disease. Silver was tilting his head, which was cute but not normal. He was also very dizzy, walked in circles, and could not eat on his own. The veterinarian provided him with anti-nausea (motion sickness) medication which helped greatly. It took a few days, but he returned to normal. Every now and then his mom can still see his head tilt.

GROM-Cat Highlight

 

Pam and Grom

We are proud to highlight Grom, a tiger cub, as our Cat Highlight for the week. Pam, our licensed veterinary technician, worked at a zoo for 2 ½ years. She has some amazing stories about her adventures. What an amazing experience! 

TIGER-Cat Highlight

Tiger is a13 year old domestic short-haired cat, owned by Heather, a bather at Great Bridge Veterinary Hospital. Tiger likes bugging his daddy.

Tiger was overweight.  When his mom first got him, he was 21 ½ lbs. Now he has turned it around and weighs about 12 lbs. His mom was very dedicated to his health. It took him one year and a prescription weight loss diet, but he lost the weight and got his energy back. Had he stayed overweight he may have developed a number of diseases, such as diabetes.

SUDS-Cat Highlight

Suds is a seven year old, male cat. He is owned by Charlene. He likes following his mom around the house and watching things out the window. 

 Suds was recently adopted. He was the only kitty at his previous home and is now being introduced to another kitty in his new home. The change was difficult for him so his new mom introduced him slowly to his new environment. Keeping him in the bathroom for 2-3 weeks and then opening the door to allow him to choose to leave if he wanted. This made him comfortable enough to eventually make friends with the other kitty.

There are many tricks to introducing kitties into a new home.

Cat Highlight-Thomas

Thomas is a three year old domestic short-haired cat. He is owned by Pamela, a Licensed Veterinary Technician at Great Bridge Veterinary Hospital. Thomas likes bringing his toys to his mom and dad at night.

Thomas likes to scratch everything. As you can see from his picture, he is an adventurous boy. His mom doesn’t want to declaw him because at his age it could traumatize him psychologically. She deters him from scratching by putting layers of sheets over the couch, which he doesn’t particularly care to scratch. She provides scratching posts and vertical surfaces for him to scratch as well. There are many options if you prefer not to declaw… like Soft Paws!

AZAIAH-Cat Highlight

 Azaiah is a three and a half year old, domestic short-haired feline. She is owned by Rebecca, Veterinary Assistant. Azaiah likes feathers, friends and food.

Azaiah is microchipped. This ensures that if she escapes from the house, she will be returned home. It is important to register her with the correct company to ensure the fastest return home possible.  Did you know that 41% of people with lost cats described their cats as strictly indoors? Also, only 2% of unchipped lost cats make it home versus 75% of microchipped cats making it home. Visit www.petparents.com to read more information about microchipping your pet. 

ASHER-Cat Highlight

ASHER is a domestic short hair, three year old cat. It's human owner is Charlene, a Licensed Veterinary. Asher likes playing air guitar, wrestling with the dogs, talking and cuddling with mom.

Asher must have regular electrocardiograms (ECG). This test is important to monitor his heart murmur. The test makes a graph of the electrical activity of his heart so the doctors can detect any changes. His murmur is not at a stage where he needs regular medications. He is still very active and sweet.

When any irregular heart rhythm is detected on clinical examination, an electrocardiogram (ECG or EKG) should be performed. The small electrical impulses normally generated by the heart are amplified 3,000 or more times and recorded by the ECG machine. An ECG can detect minor disturbances in the heart beat or rhythm and allow your veterinarian to diagnose many types of heart disease.

An ECG is a simple test to perform. Your pet is usually placed in a standing or lying position and electrodes are attached to the elbows and knees. A jelly or liquid is applied to improve electrical conduction between the dog and the electrodes. The ECG machine merely records the electrical impulses from the cat (or dog) and there are no unpleasant sensations nor is there any danger to the pet.

Often an ECG examination is combined with chest radiographs (x-rays).  ECG analysis is a safe, simple test that provides your veterinarian with valuable information about your pet’s health.

Pets and Fireworks

Fourth of July is one firecracker of a day…. but…maybe not for your pet.  We recommend keeping your pet away from sparklers and other fireworks that may be ingested.  Pets have sensitive ears so remember this during the beautiful firework displays.  We can give you suggestions about how to reduce your pet’s anxiety to loud firecrackers. We want you and your pet to enjoy safe summer holidays.

To obtain more information about Fourth of July celebration, please visit here.

Unlikely Friends

PET OF THE MONTH - CALI

Great Bridge Veterinary Hospital is proud to honor CALI as our June Pet of the M...onth. Here is what her owner had to say about her first encounter with Cali....

"I had gone to Petsmart to get stuff for our two cats, of course my husband was on deployment, and I walked over to the pet adoption area. There she was in a cage. She didn't look sad but she was mad. How dare someone put her in cage and how dare someone turn her in. What a great cat! Cali has been the best, most entertaining cat I have ever had. She even lets me put costumes on her for various parties that we host. The funniest moments are how long it takes her to get in empty boxes. Like moths to a flame…as soon as we get a box, there she is…"

NAMIR-CAT HIGHLIGHT

NAMIR is a seven year old Bengal male cat. His owner is Pamela, Licensed Veterinary Technician. Namir is an indoor cat and likes hunting and attacking his toys!  

Namir has recently had his teeth cleaned. During the cleaning the veterinarian noticed a few lesions on some of his teeth. These turned out to be resorptive lesions. The lesions are painful and would have caused many problems had they not been extracted. It is very important for his future dental health to monitor him for signs of difficulty chewing, suddenly missing teeth, or teeth whose gums look inflamed as these can signal another lesion.

In the interest of your pet’s optimum health, we are providing a dental care program to ensure your cat (and dog) will avoid common dental problems.  Residues often build up on the teeth of  many pets.  The rate at which this build up occurs depends on many factors, including the breed, jaw structure, type of food eaten, and dental home care by the owner.  Thus, some dogs and cats are more prone to this problem than others.  Never the less, well over half of the pet population is prone to develop tooth and gum disease by the time they are a few years old. 

The team at Great Bridge Veterinary Hospital is genuinely interested in maximizing the companionship you have with your pet by sensibly avoiding preventable health problems.  Here are some simple measures you can follow to keep their teeth in good condition.

1.  Visual Inspection:  First, check the mouth (some pets are a little head shy and this may take a little patience on your part).  Gently fold back the lips and look at the teeth and gums.  Ideally, the teeth should be ivory or light-tan colored and the teeth should be smooth and shiny.  The gums should be a nice pink color and free of any areas of localized redness or swelling.  If your pet has tartar or plaque build-up, you will notice it as tan or brownish debris accumulated on the teeth where they meet the gumline.  It is most noticeable on the “cheek teeth”, the larger teeth along the sides of the jaw.

2.  Foul Odor:  Pets with tartar or plaque build-up commonly have a foul odor to the breath.  This is from the effects of the bacteria feeding on the plaque that builds up on the teeth.  This infection can spread to the gums, causing irritation (gingivitis).  If you suspect any of the conditions noted above, it is best for your pet to have the teeth cleaned and treated.  Please call our hospital.  We will be happy to answer any questions you have.

3.  Time for the toothbrush!  Brushing your pet’s teeth?  Yes!  In many cases it will help.  Cats and dogs can benefit when you brush their teeth daily with an approved veterinary dentifrice (tooth cleansing solution).  Contact our hospital for recommendations on proper dental care for your pet.

 These tips are offered as a service to you, our valued client.  If you’d like to make an appointment for an examination and cleaning, please call.  Visit www.petdental.com for more information.

Fleas & Ticks

Summers coming and you may not be the only one taking a vacation. Fleas and ticks are out and about looking for a summer cottage. Your dog's skin is the hot spot for these pesky critters. Be sure to bring your dog in or pickup a flea and tick preventative before the season is in full swing. For more information on preventative, visit www.summitvetpharm.com as well as www.lymeprevention.com. 

 

KEELY-Cat Highlight

KEELY is a six year old domestic short-haired indoor cat. Her owner, Debbie, is a Veterinary Assistant at Great Bridge Veterinary Hospital. Keely's favorite things are catnip, bird on a string toy and looking out the window at the birds and squirrels.

Keely has herpes (upper respiratory disease). This feline disease is not transmitted the same way that the human version is transmitted and is not contagious to humans. Cats catch it by contact with other infected cats via grooming, sharing bowls, or fighting. In Keely’s case, she was born with it (which means her mom had it). Her human mom keeps her indoors for two reasons: to keep her health at top-notch and to keep other cats from becoming infected by her. Keely is a beloved part of the family.

                                                                  

Feline Herpesviral Conjunctivitis is a medical term used to describe inflammation of the tissues surrounding the eye. These tissues include the lining of the lids and the third eyelid as well as the tissues covering the front part of the eye or globe. Conjunctivitis may be a primary condition (caused by an infection) or may be secondary to an underlying systemic or ocular disease.

Feline herpesviral conjunctivitis is a form of primary conjunctivitis caused by the highly infectious feline herpesvirus (FHV-1). Herpesvirus infection is common in cats and is the most common cause of conjunctivitis in cats. Many cats are infected with FHV-1 and do not show any signs of clinical illness (i.e. they have a latent infection). Fortunately, less than 45% of adult cats with latent herpesvirus infection develop recurrent ocular disease such as conjunctivitis. In most cases, herpesvirus conjunctivitis is self-limiting and will resolve within two weeks.

The most common clinical signs of conjunctivitis are squinting or closing of the eye, red, swollen tissue surrounding the eye and eyelids, ocular discharge that may range from clear to yellow-greenish in color, and upper respiratory infection symptoms such as sneezing or nasal discharge. These signs often appear suddenly and are especially common after stressful situations such as travel, boarding, surgery or illness. Chemosis, a condition in which the membranes that line the eyelids and surface of the eye appear to have fluid in them, is more commonly associated with chlamydial infections.

There is no cure for herpesviral conjunctivitis. The therapeutic goal is to reduce the frequency and severity of recurrences. Most cats respond well to medical management and lead relatively normal lives. Minimizing the chance of infection, feeding a premium diet, supplementing the diet with l-lysine daily, reducing stressful situations and proper vaccination against preventable causes are your cat’s best defense

Pets and Cookouts

Cookouts are in full swing! We want to remind you that barbeque and picnic foods should not be fed to pets.  Please bring plenty of food and treats for your pets so that they can join in on the fun and food.  

Puppy Obedience Class

Join us for our Puppy Obedience Class tonight from 6:00pm to 8:00pm at Great Bridge Veterinary Hospital. We look forward to seeing you there!

 

Dear Cat Lover

Dear Cat Lover,

Cats are fascinating creatures because of their intelligence, sophistication, and sense of mystery.  We enjoy the company of a cat because of their beauty and lovable nature.  People who have not had the privilege of being owned by a cat are missing out on the many ways that a cat can enrich our lives, a soothing, rhythmic purr in the ear, a playful pat on the pant leg, an agile, entertaining adventure. 

There are 82 million pet cats in the United States compared to 72 million dogs, making cats the most popular pet in the country! Yet studies show a continual decrease in veterinary preventive examinations and veterinary care visits for our feline companions. What’s more, cats are living longer than they did 20 years ago. That’s why putting off veterinary visits can put your cat’s health at risk. 

Cats are masters at hiding illness. Your cat needs regular vaccinations and exams to stay healthy and live a long, happy life. Your cat could be giving you subtle signs of sickness, letting you know that it’s time to visit your veterinarian. We recommend semi-annual wellness visits and examinations any time you suspect that your pet may be showing signs of illness. Visit www.healthycatsforlife.com for a detailed list of subtle signs of illness, which include inappropriate elimination behavior or litter box use, changes in food and water consumption, changes in sleeping habits, or even bad breath. 

We understand that getting your cat to Great Bridge Veterinary Hospital can be challenging sometimes, but it’s worth it to both you and your beloved feline companion.  Here are a few tips to make it easier for both of you:

·         Help your cat be more comfortable in the car by using a pet carrier and taking frequent short rides to places other than the veterinary office.  This will help to acclimate your pet to both the carrier and the car.

·         It should be easy to get your pet in and out of your carrier.  This will lessen the stress to both you and your pet. Top-loading carriers work best.

·         Cats are extremely sensitive to smell, so take your cat carrier out of storage several days prior to taking a trip. Place a familiar blanket inside the carrier along with the cat's favorite toys.

·         Cats travel best on an empty stomach.  Do not feed your cat for several hours before traveling.

·         Place a towel or blanket over the carrier when driving.  Limiting the cat’s vision of moving objects during travel will help to reduce car sickness.

For more information about how you can help your feline companion stay healthy and live a long, happy life, call our office at (757) 547-1600 or visit our website at www.greatbridgevet.com.  Additionally, visit www.catalystcouncil.org and www.vet.cornell.edu/fhc  for more educational information and videos.

Sincerely,

Your Doctors and Veterinary Care Team

At Great Bridge Veterinary Hospital

UNO-Cat Highlight

UNO is a five year old domestic short haired cat. She is owned by Heather, Pet Bather.She has been spayed and stays indoors. She loves staring out the window as if the outside were a fishbowl.

As soon as Uno was adopted, she was tested for feline leukemia and aids. Because Uno was found outside in a barn with other cats, her risk for having contracted these infectious diseases was high. Luckily, the test is fast and within 15 minutes the results showed she had not contracted either of the diseases. She has lived with her family as an exclusively indoor cat for about 4 years and is very happy. These feline diseases are not transmitted the same way that the human versions are transmitted and are not contagious to humans.

Feline leukemia virus (FeLV) is one of the most important infectious viruses of cats. It was first discovered in cats with a form of leukemia, hence its name. FeLV is the cause of a variety of diseases, not just leukemia. Like all viruses, FeLV is a minute micro-organism consisting of nucleic acid and a few proteins and glycoproteins in a simple structure. Viruses can only replicate themselves inside living cells. FeLV is specific to members of the cat family and does not pose a risk to other animals or people.

FeLV infection is found worldwide. In general, around 1-2% of the cat population is persistently infected with this virus, and many more are exposed. The proportion of cats infected differs according to the geographical location, environment and the life-style of the cat. Infection is more common in colonies of cats where there is close contact between individuals.

Direct contact between cats is the most frequent method of FeLV infection. The virus is fragile and cannot survive longer than a few hours in the environment outside of the cat. A cat with FeLV sheds a large quantity of the virus in its saliva as well as in other bodily fluids such as urine and feces. However, FeLV is not a highly contagious virus, and transmission generally requires a prolonged period of close contact between infected and susceptible cats. Close contact activities include mating, mutual grooming, and sharing of litter trays and food bowls. Cat bites by an infected cat can readily transmit infection.

There is currently no specific treatment for FeLV-infected cats. There is no treatment to eliminate the virus from the body.  PREVENTION is the best method! Vaccines are available to protect cats against FeLV infection. Their use is highly recommended for any cat that goes outside at any time and therefore could have contact with FeLV- infected cats. As with other vaccines, an initial course of two injections is required, and regular boosters are necessary to maintain immunity. Your veterinarian will discuss the most appropriate options for your cat with you. All cats should be tested for FeLV prior to vaccination.

Although vaccination is very helpful in preventing infection with FeLV and thus controlling FeLV-related disease, no vaccine is 100% protective. Where possible do not allow your cat, particularly if a kitten, to come into close contact with known FeLV-infected cats or cats without a known history of proper vaccinations.

Visit American Animal Hospital Association for more information about Feline Leukemia.

Walk to Defeat Lyme Disease

National Capital Lyme and Tick-Borne Disease Association will be hosting a Walk to Defeat Lyme Disease on Saturday, May 21st at Mount Trashmore Park in Virginia Beach. Registration will begin at 8:30 a.m. and the walk will begin at 10:00 a.m. Registration includes a tee-shirt; (please bring your own lunch). Come on out for a day of sunshine and fellowship as we all walk together to defeat these diseases!

 

Preventing Ticks on Your Pets

Dogs are very susceptible to tick bites and tickborne diseases. Vaccines are not available for all the tickborne diseases that dogs can get, and they don’t keep the dogs from bringing ticks into your home. For these reasons, it’s important to use a tick preventive product on your dog.
Tick bites on dogs may be hard to detect. Signs of tickborne disease may not appear for 7-21 days or longer after a tick bite, so watch your dog closely for changes in behavior or appetite if you suspect that your pet has been bitten by a tick.
To reduce the chances that a tick will transmit disease to you or your pets:

• Check your pets for ticks daily, especially after they spend time outdoors.
• If you find a tick on your dog, remove it right away.
• Ask your veterinarian to conduct a tick check at each exam.
• Talk to your veterinarian about tickborne diseases in your area.
• Reduce tick habitat in your yard.
• Talk with your veterinarian about using tick preventives on your pet. 

Note: Cats are extremely sensitive to a variety of chemicals. Do not apply any insect acaricides or repellents to your cats without first consulting your veterinarian!

Kill Ticks on Dogs

A pesticide product that kills ticks is known as an acaricide. Acaricides that can be used on dogs include dusts, impregnated collars, sprays, or topical treatments. Some acaricides kill the tick on contact. Others may be absorbed into the bloodstream of a dog and kill ticks that attach and feed.

Pros:

• Helps to reduce the number of ticks in the environment
• Prevents tickborne disease

Cons:

• Tick bites can cause a painful wound and may become infected.
• When bitten, a dog may become infected with a number of diseases. This depends on the type of tick, which diseases it is carrying (if any), and how quickly a product kills the feeding tick.

Examples of topically applied products (active ingredients):

• Fipronil
• Pyrethroids (permethrin, etc.)
• Amitraz

Repel Ticks on Dogs

A repellent product may prevent the tick from coming into contact with an animal at all or have anti-feeding effects once the tick comes into contact with the chemical, thus preventing a bite.

Pros:

• Prevents bite wounds and possible resulting infections
• Prevents tickborne disease

Cons:

• Will not reduce the number of ticks in the environment (doesn't kill ticks)

Examples of topically applied products (active ingredients):

• Pyrethroids (permethrin, etc.)

Reference to any commercial entity or product or service on this page should not be construed as an endorsement by the Government of the company, its products, or its services.

FREE Puppy Training Seminar

Have you heard about Great Bridge Veterinary Hospital's FREE Puppy Training Seminar? This event takes place June 2, 2011 from 6pm to 8pm and is for puppies 4 to 6 months old. Please don't forget to register! We look forward to seeing you and your new furry family member there!

 

Did you know that animals that are overweight live two years less than pets at an ideal weight?  Obesity is fast becoming an epidemic among our pets.  Diet and exercise are the two most important factors in preventing and treating obesity.  We can provide a customized feeding program for your pet and get them back in tip top shape!

Puppy Training Seminar

Take part in Great Bridge Veterinary Hospital's Puppy Training Seminar! This event takes place June 2, 2011 from 6pm to 8pm and is for puppies 4 to 6 months old. Call our office to register your pet for the class!

Allergies

Is your pet’s itching and scratching keeping you awake at night? Spring is the beginning of allergy season as the pollen and mold counts rise. Pets are not born with allergies, they develop with repeated exposure. Chewing, biting, scratching, sneezing, itchy ears and watery eyes may be indications that your pet may have developed some allergies. We have developed a comprehensive plan to address these issues and would be happy to help your pet so they can enjoy the spring season as well.