Lyme Disease…it can affect your pet and your family… but you can protect both!

Lyme disease is a serious condition that affects dogs and humans and ticks are the number one carrier of Lyme Disease.  Dogs infected with Lyme disease may develop problems like joint swelling, lethargy, lameness, and fever two to five months after the tick bite.

Occasionally, Lyme disease can cause a heart or nervous system problem in your dog. Rarely, kidney failure can occur. If you think your dog has been exposed to ticks, ask your veterinarian for a blood test to detect the antibodies, and, if positive, regular blood tests to monitor Lyme disease titers should be performed.

The good news is that, nine out of ten dogs exposed to the bacteria do not go on to develop Lyme disease.

However, it’s not as rosy a picture for humans. Symptoms resembling the flu can start days or weeks after the infection, and there may be a rash. These symptoms can come and go and, unfortunately, rarely be connected with Lyme disease.

Left untreated, Lyme disease can spread to your brain, heart, and joints. Many people are now discovering that the muscle and joint pain, numbness and tingling, insomnia, memory problems, and a host of other symptoms that they’ve suffered with for years may actually be related to a tick bite they got decades ago.

So, if your dog will be going outdoors this spring and summer (and most dogs spend time outside even if it is just for their daily walk), then you need to protect him and yourself from disease carrying ticks.

The best way to keep ticks – and potential Lyme disease- out of your home is by giving your pet high quality flea and tick prevention medication.  In addition, your dog should receive the Lyme Disease vaccine.  The vaccine is administered in a 2-part dose for the regular price of $60; however, throughout the month of May, your dog can receive both vaccine dosages for a total of $40 and the exam fee is waived.  Call us today to schedule your dog’s appointment and help to protect your pet and your family!

Remember that we are open late and on the weekends to help care for your pet:
Monday – Friday:  7:30 AM – 10 PM
Saturday:  8 AM – 8 PM
Sunday:  10 AM – 8 PM

Your friends @ the Animal Hospital of Polaris
8928 South Old State Road
Lewis Center, Ohio  43035
614-888-4050

 

Hard to believe flea and tick season is upon us…but we have a great, new solution to protecting your pets!

Seresto is the newest breakthrough in flea and tick prevention for your pets! Easier than monthly topicals, you simply apply Seresto to your pet just once and they enjoy 8 months of protection from fleas and ticks!  Seresto is a revolutionary new flea and tick collar that releases two active ingredients in controlled doses over time to protect your pet.  The cost is also impressive… throughout the month of May, the cost of the Seresto collar is just $69.99 with a $20.00 rebate.  Stop in today to purchase this protection for your furry friend! Flea bites can cause skin lesions, hot spots, hair loss and even anemia. Not only is the condition dangerous and uncomfortable for your pet, a single flea can lay up to 50 eggs a day causing a full-out infestation in your home before you know it. Dogs are also common targets for ticks that can transmit serious diseases when they feed on your dog’s blood. A few of the most dangerous conditions: Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever Ehrlichiad Lyme Disease Remember that we are open late and on the weekends to help care for your pet: Monday – Friday:  7:30 AM – 10 PM Saturday:  8 AM – 8 PM Sunday:  10 AM – 8 PM Your friends @ the Animal Hospital of Polaris www.animalhospitalofpolaris.com 8928 South Old State Road Lewis Center, Ohio  43035 614-888-4050

 

Be prepared… what you need to know for pet first aid kit and how to build one!

Most of us have a first aid kit for humans either in our car or our home…or both. But have you ever considered having a first aid kit handy for treating your pets?  If you don’t have a first aid kit for your pets in your household, now is a good time to get one, or you can easily build one.  You can start with a first aid kit built for humans and then consider adding the following items:

• A fresh, unexpired bottle of 3% hydrogen peroxide. This isn’t for cleaning wounds necessarily, but rather for inducing vomiting if your dog gets into something poisonous! Accidental poisonings in our pets occur thousands of times a day across the world, so you always want to be prepared to induce vomiting if necessary. That said, never induce vomiting without consulting your veterinarian or Pet Poison Helpline (800-213-6680, an animal poison control first), as it may make your pet worse.
• A bottle of liquid dish soap (e.g., Dawn, Joy, etc.). Most households already have a bottle of liquid dish soap handy but ensuring you have enough for emergencies is critical. For example, if your cat accidentally had a dog flea and tick medication put on it, you’ll need to bath off this chemical immediately to prevent tremors and seizures. Likewise, if your pet rolled in something poisonous (like motor oil, etc.), you can safely administer a bath with liquid dish soap.
• A can of canned tuna (in water) or a can of chicken broth. You’re probably wondering why this needs to be in a first aid kit. Well, several plants (e.g., Dieffenbachia, Poinsettias, etc.), household products (e.g., glow sticks) and household cleaners can cause severe foaming and drooling of the mouth due to irritation. By simply diluting the taste or chemical out of your pet’s mouth with something tasty (like the water from the tuna), it can safely flush out the mouth and esophagus. This is much safer than using a spray or hose to flush out the taste from your pet’s mouth, as there is a chance your pet could aspirate that fluid into their lungs.
• A few cans of dog or cat food and bottles of water. As the nightly news tells us, disasters can strike anywhere so you need a “pet bag to go” in case of emergency. Making sure that you have pop-off lid canned food is important in case you need to feed your pet during a disaster. Don’t use dry kibble (which can go rancid after years) or cans that require a can opener (since you’re unlikely to remember to grab your can opener on the run!).
• A quart size bag full of kitty litter. Again, you never know when you have to evacuate quickly with your pet. Keeping a bag of kitty litter in your first aid kit or in your cat carrier is imperative in case you’re on the run.

As time and circumstances have taught us, we can’t predict when disaster or tragedy strikes but attempting to be prepared (and keep the first aid materials in a box with a copy of the notes above so you know what to do in instances of illness or injury) will do much to help treat your pet at home, prevent costly veterinary treatments and possibly save your pet’s life.

Does your dog’s breath stink? There might be more to it than just a bad smell…

Halitosis, or bad breath, is the most common sign of dental disease. Classic “doggy breath” is not necessarily normal. It’s usually caused by an infection of the gums and potentially the other supporting structures of the teeth. Plaque builds up every day on the tooth surface including at the gum line. Left in place, the plaque can mineralize, or harden, in less than 2 days. The familiar brown, grey, or yellow staining commonly seen near the gum line is a sign of advancing disease.
Signs of dental disease include bad bath, red inflamed gums, loose teeth, tartar accumulation, and/or calculus on the teeth. Dental disease is the most common ailment affecting pet dogs and cats.

The amount and severity of dental disease in our pets can be very surprising. The best way to reduce the risk of dental disease in pets is proper dental care. A simple and quick tooth brushing just 3 times a week can add years to your dog’s life, but the sad fact is that most dogs never even see a tooth brush. Luckily there are some easy and inexpensive ways to avoid the costly and dangerous issue of periodontal disease.

One of the best ways to reduce plaque and tartar (as well as nasty “doggy breath”) is to brush your dogs teeth daily or offer a toy that cleans your dog’s teeth as they chew.

Call today to schedule your FREE dental exam!

Remember that we are open late and on the weekends
to help care for your pet:
Monday – Friday:  7:30 AM – 10 PM
Saturday:  8 AM – 8 PM
Sunday:  10 AM – 8 PM

Your friends @ the Animal Hospital of Polaris
www.animalhospitalofpolaris.com
8928 South Old State Road
Lewis Center, Ohio  43035
614-888-4050

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• Is A Dog’s Mouth REALLY Cleaner Than a Human’s Mouth? (drdonledentistatwatertown.wordpress.com)
• Dental Disease in Pets, the Silent Killer – Part 1 (rayyathevet.com)
• Your Pet’s Dental Health (barkerspetcenter1.wordpress.com)
• Dental Disease in Pets, the Silent Killer – Part 2 (rayyathevet.com)
• Troubled by your Pooch’s Bad Breath? Then the Pet Food is Missing Dental Dog Treats (indianpetstore.com)

We like to “treat” our pet with special treats…

The idea that it’s natural for dogs to chew on bones is a popular notion; however, it’s a dangerous practice and can be a serious threat to your pet’s health. Why are bones a bad treat for your furry friend?

• Mouth or tongue injury.
• Broken teeth.  This leads to expensive veterinary dentistry.
• Bones can get caught or looped around your pet’s lower jaw.
• Bones can also get caught in the esophagus or windpipe.
• Constipation due to bone fragments.
• Bones can get stuck in the intestines.

These are just a few of the possible tragedies that may come from our desire to “treat” our pets.

Remember that we are open late and on the weekends to help care for your pet:
Monday – Friday:  7:30 AM – 10 PM
Saturday:  8 AM – 8 PM
Sunday:  10 AM – 8 PM

Your friends @ the Animal Hospital of Polaris
http://www.animalhospitalofpolaris.com
8928 South Old State Road
Lewis Center, Ohio  43035
614-888-4050

 

With Spring just around the corner…

As we look forward to Spring (and the warmer temperatures), it may inspire a love-hate relationship for people and pets with allergies. Many people and pets suffer from seasonal allergies in the Spring. Their bodies react to a variety of environmental allergens (substances that cause allergies) and the results can range from mildly annoying to severe. Seasonal allergies are more common in dogs than in cats.

What are signs of allergies? Most allergens are inhaled but some may also be ingested. Most dogs with seasonal allergies experience skin disorders rather than sneezing and watery eyes, and once exposed they usually become extremely itchy.

Pet owners may also notice some typical signs including licking the feet, rubbing the face, and frequent scratching. Your pet might also develop skin or ear infections.  If you notice these signs in your pet, contact your veterinarian and schedule an appointment.  Both people and pets have numerous options and don’t have to suffer.

Remember that we are open late and on the weekends to help care for your pet:
Monday – Friday:  7:30 AM – 10 PM
Saturday:  8 AM – 8 PM
Sunday:  10 AM – 8 PM

Your friends @ the Animal Hospital of Polaris
http://www.animalhospitalofpolaris.com
8928 South Old State Road
Lewis Center, Ohio  43035
614-888-4050

12 things you might not know about parasites…

As a pet owner, your veterinarian has probably enlightened you about the dangers of parasites.  Do you really know everything you should about these tiny, troublesome organisms?  If you haven’t spoken with your veterinarian recently, you might be putting your pet and your family at risk.   Below are some common questions and answers regarding these pesky pests:

1.  What is a parasite? What are the types of parasites that can affect pets?
  A parasite is an organism that lives in or on another organism (its host) and benefits by deriving nutrients at the host’s expense. Some parasites that may affect your pet include:
◦    Fleas
◦    Ticks
◦    Ear Mites
◦    Mange Mites
◦    Coccidia
◦    Giardia
◦    Toxoplasmosis
◦    Heartworms
◦    Hookworms
◦    Roundworms
◦    Tapeworms
◦    Whipworms

2.  Can parasites be transmitted from pets to humans?
  Yes, some worms can be transmitted in the environment, while fleas and ticks can carry and either directly or indirectly transmit several potential illnesses to humans.

3.  What are heartworms? Should I be concerned about them even if I don’t live in a high-risk area? 
Heartworms are nematodes, or microscopic worms that infect many animal species. The larvae are transmitted through mosquito bites, maturing into worms once they arrive at the heart and blood vessels of the lungs. They can grow to as much as 11 inches in length, and can cause pulmonary disease, secondary heart problems and eventually death. Everyone with a dog or cat should be concerned about heartworm; mosquitoes are everywhere, and heartworms have been diagnosed in all 50 states.

4.  How is heartworm prevented?  A simple, chewable pill can prevent heartworm in pets if taken once per month. There also is monthly spot-on prevention medication available.

5.  Why does my veterinarian have to test for heartworms annually if my pet has been on preventive all year long?  
Pets can have a life-threatening reaction if given heartworm preventive medications when they have an active heartworm infection, so your veterinarian wants to be sure that your pet does not have a heartworm infection before prescribing a heartworm preventive medication. You may have accidentally missed a dose, or your pet may have spit the heartworm medication out or vomited it up, leaving your pet unprotected for a period that you were unaware of. Combination tests for heartworms in dogs also help your veterinarian check for other diseases like those transmitted by ticks, such as Lyme disease and ehrlichiosis.

6.  How does a pet become infected with intestinal parasites?
  Pets can become infected with intestinal parasites through many routes, including:
◦    Drinking contaminated water
◦    Coming into contact with other infected animals, although it’s unlikely if it’s just through casual contact
◦    Coming into contact with feces containing parasites eggs or larvae
◦    Swallowing fleas carrying the infective stage of tapeworms
◦    Nursing from an infected mother
◦    Eating a rodent or other small animal carrying the infective stage of a parasite

7.  Why is it necessary to bring a fecal sample in to my veterinarian? 
To test for a number of internal parasites that could possibly be present.

8.  How are intestinal parasites prevented? 
Bowel movements are the source of most intestinal parasites. To avoid parasites, keep your pet away from areas where other animals relieve themselves. Dispose of your own pet’s bowel movements as quickly as possible, and keep your pet and his environment clean. Keep your pet free of fleas, and make sure a fecal exam is included in his annual preventive care exam.

9.  What are the physical signs that an intestinal parasite is present in a pet?
  Keep your eyes open for some of these changes:
◦    Change in appetite
◦    Coughing
◦    Diarrhea (sometimes with blood)
◦    Weight loss
◦    Skin irritation and itching
◦    Rough or dry coat
◦    Overall poor appearance

10.  How are intestinal parasites treated? 
The medication will vary depending on the parasite(s) involved. Your veterinarian may prescribe pills, powders, liquids, or injectable medication.

11.  Are intestinal parasites transmittable from animals to humans?  
Under some conditions, intestinal parasites can be transmitted from pets to people. Especially at risk are children, pregnant women, and immunocompromised individuals (elderly are also at risk).

12.  What can you do to protect your pet and your family from parasites?
  Responsible pet parasite control can reduce risks of pets becoming infected with parasites and their transmission to humans.
◦    Use flea, tick, and heartworm preventive year-round
◦    Visit your veterinarian annually for a preventive care exam
◦    Practice good personal hygiene
◦    Clean up pet feces regularly

If you have any questions, give us a call!  With our expanded weekday and weekend hours…. we will be here if you need us!

Your friends @ the Animal Hospital of Polaris
http://www.animalhospitalofpolaris.com
8928 South Old State Road
Lewis Center, Ohio  43035
614-888-4050

Healthy Treats (and tips) For Your Pet

A recent recall of chicken jerky treats produced in China made the news across the world. It encouraged many pet lovers to think very carefully about the snacks they give their pets. Treats, table scraps and human foods can all cause problems in pets. Today we want to give you a few tips on how to keep your dog healthy and hopefully prevent illness or injury.



1. Don’t Give Dogs Bones: Dogs are notorious for chewing on things they shouldn’t. Such items given to dogs as “treats” can have grave effects. In particular, many people think that giving their dogs chicken or turkey bones (especially during the holidays) is safe, but they soon end up in the emergency room after their dog swallows one. Bones can easily break if chewed and the sharp edges can lead to bleeding, internal injuries, or worse.

2. Don’t Feed Table Scraps: Another problem is that human food can contain toxic ingredients that can poison your dog. The tasty onion rings, grapes, raisins or high-fat meals that you love can make your dog sick, especially if your pet is very small.



3. Only Feed Dog-Specific Treats: The best way to keep your dog safe from toxicity or injury due to treats is to only feed them treats which are designed for canine consumption.



4. Check Recalls: Regularly check the FDA recall list and make sure that your dog’s food or treats are not anywhere on there. Monitor your dog closely for any signs of injury or illness  and if you suspect something, trust your instincts.

5. Pick Treats for Your Dogs Size: Treats that are too big or too small can cause problems by getting caught in your dog’s mouth or esophagus. Items which are too small for your large dog can be easily swallowed.

If you have any questions, give us a call!  With our expanded weekday and weekend hours…. we will be here if you need us!

Your friends @ the Animal Hospital of Polaris
www.animalhospitalofpolaris.com
8928 South Old State Road
Lewis Center, Ohio  43035
614-888-4050

 

Our pets LOVE their toys!

Why do we give dogs toys? Because toys make them happy! But they’re also necessary for your dog’s mental health. What kind of toys does your dog like to play with?  Squeaker toys are by far some of the most popular. But here’s the question on most dog owners’ minds:  If my dog loves playing with squeaker toys so much, why does he destroy them in a matter of minutes?

Dogs attacking their squeaker toys is a common complaint. It’s not unusual for a dog to go after a squeaker toy like crazy until he finally “kills” it by ripping the squeaker out.  The dog loves the toy – why would he destroy it and not be able to play with it anymore? The truth is that this kind of play behavior is based on instinct. “Killing” a squeaker toy is the dog’s objective – that’s the real fun of it for them. The squeaking noises remind your dog of the natural squeals and chirps made by live prey as they are caught, injured and killed.  So the more the toy squeaks, the more excited your dog gets. Toys that squeak a lot can make your dog feel like an expert hunter, the king or queen of the pack. The process of ripping out a squeaker can be VERY satisfying to a dog, which is why squeaker toys are quite often a dog’s favorite.

If you are in the market for some fun toys for your furry friend, stop by the Animal Hospital of Polaris and check out the selection of fun and safe toys that will keep your pet happy and entertained.

Why is flea & tick prevention important throughout the year? PLUS, buy 6 doses of Frontline & get 2 FREE!

Fleas and ticks are more than mere nuisances. They cause distress in dogs and cats and, more important, they cause disease. Intermittent preventive programs are not the optimal way to safeguard the health of your pets and family.

By the time a pet owner notices fleas on a pet, the fleas have injected salivary proteins, transmitted infectious agents and begun laying eggs. Ticks can transmit disease agents to a dog or cat before the pests are found and removed.

Clearly, reactive treatments are insufficient to prevent disease in pets and their owners. We want our patients and their families to be protected…that’s why we are offering the following special:

Frontline: Buy 6 doses, Get 2 FREE*

The key to all-year-round flea control is continued monthly application of FRONTLINE PLUS, even in cooler weather. FRONTLINE PLUS kills all stages of the flea life cycle to protect your pets and their home environment from flea infestation. Stop in today to pick up your FRONTLINE PLUS!

*Cannot be used in conjunction with other offers or coupons.