Meet Buddy, Our May Pet Of The Month!

 

World, meet Buddy, our May Pet of the Month! 

Buddy is a 10-year-old orange tabby who, like many of Miami's fabulous felines, simply showed up and made himself at home. It didn't take long for Buddy to work his way into the hearts of his new humans - sometimes by way of a shoulder. 

When Buddy isn't doing his best parrot imitation, he can be found relaxing with his fellow fur kids or hanging out in the birdbath. He's always a good sport about coming to see his friends at Sabal Chase, especially on acupuncture days with Dr. Rose. Buddy is being treated for inappetence related to kidney disease, and is always calm and content throughout his sessions.

Congratulations, Buddy and share with all your friends - you're our Pet of the Month!

A parrot in a past life...?

Or some other kind of songbird...?

Meet Lola, Our February Pet Of The Month!

 

World, meet Lola - our February Pet of the Month!

Lola is a six-month-old calico cat who absolutely rules the roost. When she's not posing for pictures or lobbying to go along on road trips, Lola can be found living her best life in her super comfy kitty bed. Lola boasts the rare feline trait of being both a feisty calico, and a laid back love bug. She's even chill for her veterinary exams, which means extra cuddles and fear free visits. 

Congratulations, Lola and share with all your friends- you're our Pet of the Month!

"I can haz vacation?"

Kitty's First Christmas

 

If you follow this space, you already know that for many families, 2020 was the year of the pet. Puppies and kittens were added to homes in record numbers. And now that the holidays are upon us, these youngsters will be entering the challenging phase of adolescence. Like human teenagers, adolescent puppies and kittens can be defiant and prone to mischief. When combined with standard holiday decorations, these traits can lead to veterinary emergencies, especially for kittens and cats. 

Young cats are often drawn to indoor plants. The holiday versions of such greenery, particularly poinsettias, amaryllis, holly, and lilies can be toxic to cats when ingested. Additionally some of the seasonal essential oils we use to scent our homes in December cannot be processed by the feline liver, and can lead to severe illness and death. Finally, tinsel is irresistible to most young cats, and if swallowed can cause a linear intestinal foreign body. This life-threatening condition requires risky emergency surgery. It has always been my recommendation that cat parents avoid these products when decorating for the holidays. 

Somebody's on the naughty list!

                                                                                      

Heartworm Disease Cases Expected To Rise

Heartworm Disease Cases Expected To Rise

June of 2020 brought unusually high levels of rainfall to an already waterlogged South Florida. Consequently, urban flooding and standing waters provided ample breeding ground for mosquitoes. Our community has seen an uptick in cases of mosquito-borne West Nile Virus. And as more people and pets head outdoors to escape Covid-induced cabin fever, we can expect to see an increase in heartworm disease as well.

Heartworm disease is carried by mosquitoes and infects both dogs and cats. While we can do our part to control mosquito populations by dumping  the standing water in which they breed, our neighbors might not be as diligent. For this reason, it is imperative to keep both dogs and cats on monthly heartworm prevention. While many pet owners feel that pets who do not go outside often (or ever in the case of indoor cats), mosquitoes will often enter the house as humans come and go. A single bite from an infected mosquito is all that is necessary to transmit the disease to our furry family members. The treatment for canine heartworm disease is very expensive with potentially dangerous side effects. There is no treatment for feline heartworm disease. In both species, the disease is usually fatal if left untreated.

Summer and Pets

Summer And Pets
By Dr. Ian Kupkee

As summer drags on, and many of us continue to work from home, we're likely to have more time to spend outdoors with our pets. While pets appreciate the additional attention, it's important to remember the increased hazards that accompany outdoor activities here in South Florida.

Higher resting body temperatures and dense coats make pets much more likely to suffer from heatstroke than their human companions. The best times to exercise pets, especially brachycephalic, or "smush-faced" breeds, is early in the morning, or at dusk. Provide plenty of fresh water and bring pets inside at the first sign of excessive panting. Keep dogs away from bufo toads as their venom can cause seizures and death. Finally, before leash walking pets, place a hand on the pavement to check the temperature. If it's too hot for you, it's too hot for them. Postpone the walk until a cooler time of day to avoid burning your pet's paws.

Plenty of fresh water? Check!

CBD Products and Pets

CBD Products and Pets
By Dr. Ian Kupkee

As the legal and social status of marijuana and CBD products has shifted, pet owners have been asking questions about the effectiveness of CBD oils and supplements for their furry friends. Anyone who has searched online or in pet stores knows just how many products are available, and how little seems to be known about them.

When shopping for a CBD product, it is important to be able to access the science behind the product. A seller or manufacturer must be able to articulate where the ingredients are sourced, what doses are recommended, whether or not the product has been studied by an independent third party, and if so, whether or not double-blind placebo tests were performed. Products should be full spectrum, and sourced from organically grown plants. Oils should be CO2 extracted and contain no isolates.  Manufacturers or sellers should be able to provide terpine profiles, and copies of research upon the consumers request. Natural products are not immune to side effects or drug interactions, so remember to check with your pet's veterinarian before using any CBD products.

Meet Shnipit, Our January Pet Of The Month!

World, meet Shnipit, our January Pet of the Month!

Ms. Shnipit Rose is a four-year-old tuxedo kitty who loves to be spoiled - and deserves every second of it! When she's not posing for glamour shots, you'll find Shnipit ruling the roost and keeping her canine siblings in charge. They don't mind - who would defy such cuteness?

Congratulations, Shnipit and share with all your friends - you're our Pet of the Month!

Meet Oscar, Our November Pet Of The Month!

World, meet Oscar, our November Pet Of The Month!

This fabulous feline is three years old, and loves to clown around for the camera. He even hams it up during his vet visits. When he's not providing gems for his very own Instagram account, you'll find Oscar snuggling with his mom, or taking a much-needed catnap. Because being a social media star can be exhausting!

Congratulations, Oscar and share with all your friends - you're our Pet Of The Month!

Should I Declaw My Cat?

By Dr. Ian Kupkee

Earlier this year, New York became the first state to ban the declawing of cats. This came as a surprise to many pet parents who remember a time when the procedure was fairly routine. In recent years, however, veterinarians have begun to question declawing, and many clinics, including mine, no longer declaw cats.

During the declaw procedure, the last bone of each toe is removed. This alters the cat's natural footfall, which can result in both orthopedic and soft tissue pain. More and more practitioners have begun to suspect such pain may contribute to common problems such as lameness, obesity, litter box aversion and aggression.  If you are considering declawing your cat or kitten, ask your veterinarian about alternatives. Since Florida may follow New York's lead in 2020, the time to do your research is now.

Dental X-Rays And Pets

Dental X-Rays And Pets
By Dr. Ian Kupkee

Most of us are accustomed to our own dentists routinely recommending dental radiographs as part of a routine dental wellness plan. It has only been fairly recently, however, that veterinary professionals began seeing the potential of dental radiology for the early detection of dental disease in companion animals.

Unlike human teeth, less than 20% of canine and feline teeth are visible above the gums. The other 80% of the tooth is hidden from sight, and is usually where dental problems begin. And unlike human patients, dogs and cats have a remarkable tolerance for dental pain. It is often not obvious to pet parents that their pets are suffering until secondary problems occur. By including x-rays as part of a routine dental cleaning, your veterinarian can diagnose disease and decay before your pet's health is compromised, and before the expense of treatment becomes difficult for pet parents to manage.

Moving With Pets

Moving With Pets

More Americans move between Memorial Day and Labor Day than during any other time of the year. And while few life changes are as stressful as those which involve a change of address, it's important to remember that moving affects our pets as well.

When you list your house, your realtor may tell you to clear the clutter. This is great advice, but may not be appreciated by a dog whose bed and toys are nowhere to be found. These items are important to your pet, so if they are moved to a less visible space in the house, he is likely to find it. Resist the urge to pack away things that may help your pet stay busy while you prepare for the move. And never move a cat's litter box. Cats are creatures of habit, and can be easily stressed. A box that is moved to a place your cat dislikes may be ignored. This can cause medical and behavioral issues for your pet - not to mention bigger problems for both you and your realtor.

Feline Asthma

Feline Asthma

Summer in South Florida means bountiful blooms - and abundant allergens. It's a time when many of my patients present with problems that stem from exposure to environmental allergens. While these flare-ups usually resolve after treatment, feline patients may find themselves suffering from full blown asthma. Feline asthma is caused by an allergic reaction to inhaled allergens that trigger the cat's immune system.

Asthmatic cats may show clinical signs that include wheezing, coughing, labored breathing, and vomiting. They may exhibit a crouched posture while going through an episode. If your veterinarian suspects your cat has asthma, he or she may run a series of tests to rule out other problems. Treatment for asthma may include allergy testing, diet change or hyposensitization. By keeping asthmatic cats indoors at all times and treating clinical signs when necessary, cats with this condition can expect to live long and active lives.

Outdoor cats are more likely to suffer from clinical signs of feline asthma.

It's Pet First Aid Awareness Month!

April is the American Red Cross's Pet First Aid Awareness Month! While it's always important to seek proper veterinary care for a pet in distress, it helps to have a few essentials on hand in case of an emergency.

Your pet's first aid kit should include hydrogen peroxide, and a syringe (without a needle) for the induction of vomiting. If you suspect your pet has ingested a toxin, call your vet, or veterinary emergency clinic and ask if it is safe to do this. Depending o

n the toxin, inducing vomiting can do more harm than good, so be sure to get the green light from a professional first. Sterile eye wash, bandaging supplies and tweezers are a must. The same goes for iodine based disinfectant. Never clean a wound with hydrogen peroxide, as it can slow the healing process and lead to scars.

Be sure to include a leash or carrier for transport to the vet. Since frightened pets are more likely to bite, include a basket muzzle for dogs and a pillowcase for cats. Most importantly, stay calm. Avoiding panic in a stressful situation is the key to saving valuable time in an emergency.

Toxic Treats

March is Pet Poison Awareness Month - it's also a time assess how we're doing on our New Year's resolution to improve our diets! For many of us, that means cutting our sugar intake. But a common sugar substitute called xylitol can be deadly for our dogs and cats.

Xylitol is a natural, sugarless sweetener found in many sugar free gums, candies, mints and snacks. Those sugar free gelatin and pudding cups kids love probably contain xylitol and should never be shared with pets. Additionally, xylitol is often used to sweeten vitamins, supplements, mouthwash and toothpaste! Clinical signs of xylitol toxicity include stomach upset, tremors, lethargy, collapse, seizures and jaundice. Left untreated, the condition can lead to liver failure and death. Since items containing xylitol often make their way into handbags, a good rule of thumb is to keep purses and backpacks where pets can not reach them, and instruct all guests to do the same.

Meet Trey, Our February Pet Of The Month!

World, meet Trey, our February Pet Of The Month!

Trey is a two-year-old Siamese cat who puts the household dachshunds in their place. When he's not melting hearts with those fabulous eyes, Trey likes to catch some rays and hang out near his scratching post. All in all, it's a sweet life for a sweet boy.

Congratulations Trey, and share with all your friends - you're our Pet Of The Month!

Meet Java, Our January Pet Of The Month!

World, meet Java, our January Pet of the Month!

Java is an eight-month-old cutie pie whose humble beginnings are about as humble as beginnings get - he was found in a garbage can. When his family was given the opportunity to adopt him, they couldn't resist his wide eyes and non-stop snuggles. During his recent boarding visit, he spent far more time in laps than in his kennel. It was not easy for our team to give him back!

Congratulations, Java and share with all your friends - you're our Pet of the Month!

What's a kennel?

Meet Shallow Water, Our December Pet Of The Month!

World, meet Shallow Water, our December Pet of The Month!

Shallow Water is an 11-year-old yellow Lab who loves nothing more than a weekend of fishing the flats of South Florida.  When he's not out on the water, you'll find Shallow playing with his ball or relaxing with his human family.

Congratulations, Shallow Water and share with all your friends at the dock - you're our Pet Of The Month!

November Is Pet Cancer Awareness Month

Pet Cancer Awareness Month
By Dr. Ian Kupkee

November is Pet Cancer Awareness Month. Cancer is one of the most common conditions diagnosed by veterinarians, affecting nearly one in four dogs at some point in their lives. While cancer is less common in cats, our feline companions are more likely to suffer from aggressive, and less treatable forms of the disease.

One of the more commonly seen forms of cancer in pets is breast cancer. Fortunately, it is also one of the easiest forms of cancer to prevent. A female dog who is spayed before her first heat cycle has a .6% chance of developing breast cancer later in life. A dog spayed after her first heat cycle has an 8% chance of developing breast cancer. And the breast cancer risk for dogs who are spayed after their third heat cycle is a whopping 65%.

Recent research suggests delaying spay/neuter procedures on large-breed dogs until they are fully grown can reduce their chances of developing orthopedic problems later in life. Since both threats are very real concerns, the pros and cons of each decision should be discussed with your veterinarian.  That said, the best prevention against canine and feline breast cancer is to have your pet spayed in accordance with your veterinarian's recommendation.

Meet Binx, Our November Pet Of The Month!

World, meet Binx, our November pet of the month.

Binx was abandoned on Halloween - arguably the worst day for a black kitten to be wandering the streets. While Halloween can be fun for people, black cats are often targeted for cruel Halloween pranks.

After being scooped up by Dr. Kupkee, fully vetted, and given a clean bill of health, Binx was introduced to our new neighbors at Pizza Project. The result was an instant love connection. Today, Binx is snuggling with his new family in his forever home.

Congratulations Binx, and share with all your friends - you're our Pet Of The Month!

Obesity and Pets

October is Pet Obesity Awareness Month. It's also a great time to think about the paradigms that lead us to allow our pets to become overweight or obese in the first place.

We've all seen those pet food commercials where Fluffy races around the corner and skids to a halt in front of a heaping - and I mean heaping! - bowl of food. If you'll pardon the obvious pun, this is a huge pet peeve for me. Other advertisements feature toy breeds plowing into portions that would gorge a Golden Retriever. With these types of images bombarding pet parents' senses, it's easy to see why over 60% of America's pets are either overweight or obese.

In their zeal to avoid becoming victims of marketing, many consumers take what is usually a wise course of action, and read the instructions on their pet's food bag for portion sizes.  However, the suggested portions printed on these bags are usually enough to make my jaw hit the floor. It's important to remember these are only suggestions, and many food companies would rather err on the side of overfeeding than underfeeding. Additionally, pet food companies are for-profit entities. At the risk of sounding like a conspiracy theorist, no pet food company is going to print a label asking consumers to please use less of their product. Generally speaking, I advise my clients to read the recommended feeding amounts on the package, then reduce that amount by roughly 20%. Your veterinary team can best advise you on the best diets for your pet, as well as the portion sizes that fit your pet's individual needs.