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

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

• 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.

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.

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

Related articles

• Does your dog/cat need a dentist? (charmingcountryvet.wordpress.com)
• 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)

• 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

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

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

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

We wanted to share how you can safely share this much-loved holiday with your furry friend.  Despite all the fun of Halloween it is one of the most dangerous days of the year for pets. The new experiences also bring new ways that your pet can be put in harm’s way.

1. Don’t leave your dog outside. Even if you have a fenced yard, bring your dog inside where it is safe. Your dog may be used to strangers, but so many little ghouls and goblins running about may be too much. Remember also that it is a natural instinct for dogs to protect the family from strangers, and on Halloween there will be no shortage of strangers.

2. Keep your dog restrained. If your dog is timid or scared, or if he tends to love people a little too much, it is best to put him in a separate room away from the front door to limit his excitability, aggression, and chance of running outside and becoming lost.

3. Reassure your dog. The best thing you can do for your dog when he is feeling unsettled by Halloween activities is to act as you normally would. By over-reassuring your dog or giving him an unusual amount of attention, you inadvertently can communicate to him that because you are acting differently, there must be something to worry about.

4. Have your dog get used to costumes. Your dog may see his family members as strangers once they don their Halloween costumes. Before the kids put them on, allow your dog to scent the costumes. If your costume has a mask, keep the mask off when you are with your dog because dogs can become confused when they can’t see our faces.

5. Check your dog’s ID tag. Be sure identification tags are secure on your dog’s collar-just in case.

6. Keep candy away from your dog. Many candies-especially chocolate-are toxic to dogs. The severity of the toxicity depends greatly on factors such as breed, age, size, and how much candy was ingested. Problems may range from a mild upset tummy to vomiting and diarrhea, or even death.

7. Protect dogs from candles and pumpkins. Excited or agitated dogs can easily knock over a lit candle or pumpkin. Be sure those items are away from your dog’s reach, or consider a battery-powered candle that does not burn

8. Think twice about dressing your dog in a costume. While some dogs might enjoy being dressed up, many don’t. Experiment first to see if your dog likes being in a costume.

9. Be prepared. If you take your dog with you while trick-or-treating, be prepared at all times. Do not let your dog approach the door of a house, and stay clear of possible gags or gangs of goblins who will gather at the door. Dogs do not understand that the person jumping out at you will not hurt you; they often think they can only help you by acting aggressively.

10. Have fun but think of your dog’s safety. Finally, if you want your dog to be included in Halloween festivities, think about his safety much as you would the safety of a small child. Your dog does not understand Halloween, so he needs you to provide the guidance and safety that you always do.

If you have any questions, give us a call!  We will be open from 7:30 AM to 10 PM on October 31st…. we will be there if you need us!

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

2. Don’t Feed Table Scraps. Another problem is that human food can contain toxic ingredients that can seriously poison your pet. The tasty onion rings, grapes, raisons or other high fat meals that you love can make your pet sick.

3. Be Careful With Treats. The best way to keep your pet safe from toxicity or injury due to treats is to only feed them treats which are designed for feline or canine consumption.

4. Check Recalls. Regularly check the FDA recall list and make sure that their food or treats are not anywhere on there. Monitor your pet closely for any signs of injury or illness and if something feels “off,” trust your instincts. Stop giving your pet the treat immediately and call us if symptoms occur. We try to proactively notify our clients of pet food and pet treat recalls.

5. Pick Treats for Your Pets Size. Treats that are too big or too small can cause problems by getting caught in your pet’s mouth or esophagus. For example, items that are too small for your large dog can be easily swallowed.

If you are in the market for healthy, tasty and safe treats for your pet, stop in today and we’ll help you select just the right treat for your furry friend!