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.

The Hype About Flu

The Hype About Flu!

What You Need To Know About H3N2!

The recent H3N2 outbreak in Central Florida has alarmed many pet owners. Here is some information on what you should know.

• 

  Ace recovering from an upper respiratory infection.

  The H3N2 virus was first discovered in Chicago, Illinois in 2015. Since then the virus has been found in more than 30 states, including Florida.
• In December 2015, Merck released the first H3N2 vaccine.
• PLEASE NOTE: the H3N8 vaccine, either from Merck or Zoetis, does NOT offer cross protection against the H3N2 virus. It is a different strain altogether.
• The vaccine may not 100% prevent the virus, but it will offer more protection than not vaccinating at all. If a vaccinated dog contracts H3N2, it will not last as long and the symptoms will not be as serious.
• The virus can survive in the environment for up to 24 hours but is easily killed with soap and water.
• The best way to prevent your dog from getting the virus would be to vaccinate against the H3N2 virus AND to limit your dog’s exposure to areas that they may socialize with other dogs like dog parks, day care, shelters, pet stores, dog shows, social events, etc.  
• Testing is available if your dog shows signs of coughing, sneezing, nasal discharge, decreased appetite, and lethargy. PLEASE avoid contact with other pets if your dog shows these symptoms.
• The H3N2 virus can infect cats, but not humans. There is currently no vaccine for cats.
• Treatment involves supportive care, cough suppressants and antibiotics to prevent secondary infection. Some dogs contract pneumonia secondary to H3N2 and require hospitalization.

The University of Florida has detailed information for pet owners here. https://vetmed-hospitals.sites.medinfo.ufl.edu/files/2017/05/Info-for-Pet-Owners-on-Canine-Influenza-1.pdf

Here at Sabal Chase Animal Clinic, we have been offering the H3N2 vaccine since it first came out in 2015. At that time, we made it a mandatory vaccine for all of our boarders.

If you wish to schedule an appointment to get your dog vaccinated for H3N2, please call us as soon as possible so we can accommodate you. If this is the first time your dog has received this vaccine (or if your dog was not previously boostered), they will need to return in 2-3 weeks for a 2nd vaccination.

Adopting a Senior Pet

November is Adopt A Senior Pet Month! Many of my clients, some of whom are seniors themselves, express interest in adding another pet to their household, but cringe at the thought of caring for a puppy or a kitten.  Even younger pet owners quietly confess that while the little ones are quick to tug at their heartstrings, they have neither the time nor the energy required to raise a youngster, or the patience required to survive the adolescent stage of development.

After raising two energetic puppies, one of whom grew into a particularly challenging adolescent, I have a whole new appreciation for folks who may decide it is not for them.  If you fall into this camp, you’re in good company - and there are plenty of adoptable pets looking for people just like us.  Senior pets tend to have less drive, and are more content to spend time alone.  Most come

pre-trained, and are well beyond the trials and tribulations of those first few years. Since many adoptive families still prefer puppies and kittens, there are many senior pets in our shelters - and they are often overlooked.  When we choose to adopt senior pets, we are not just enriching our own lives. We are saving theirs.

Pets and Estate Planning

While no one likes to think about the day we will no longer be around for our loved ones, most of us are pragmatic enough to understand that we are not immortal.  Between life insurance, estate planning, and end of life care, we are all encouraged to minimize the impact of our deaths upon those who are dependent on us.  While surviving spouses, children, and favorite charities are the crux of most estate planning strategies, financial advisers seldom remember to ask about our pets.

Many pet owners have unspoken agreements with friends or family members who promise to look after Fluffy if the unthinkable happens.  Still others have assumptions, which sadly, can be inaccurate. In the time that lapses between a promise made and the need to follow through, life can throw many curve balls. Many situations can arise to render even the most trusted friend unable to fulfill a promise to care for your pet.  Place agreements regarding future pet guardianship in writing and keep them with your estate planning and life insurance documents.  To ensure your pet is not left without care due to financial concerns, make sure a reasonable portion of your estate is bequeathed to his intended guardian once they take custody of your pet.  Potential pet guardians are more likely to step up to the plate if they know your pet will not represent a financial burden.

Meet Michael, Our August Pet Of The Month!

Michael is a seven-year-old, sable Collie who is his mom's most trusted and faithful companion - although rumor has it he's got a serious crush on Tiphaine! Sorry, Tiphaine, Michael is his mamma's boy and you can't have him. :-)

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

There's A New Flu In Town!

There’s A New Flu In Town!

Early last spring, a new canine influenza virus known as H3N2 arrived in the United States from either China or South Korea.  It swept quickly through the Chicago area, sickening over 1,000 dogs.  By July, the virus had spread as far south as Atlanta, and as snowbirds begin to arrive in Florida, it is expected to become a problem here as well.  In recent weeks, we have seen three suspected cases in our clinic.  

The “flu shot” our pets have been receiving for the past few years is only effective against the strain known as H3N8.  This vaccine provides no protection against the new virus. An additional vaccine that protects against H3N2 has recently become available.  While it might be inconvenient to add yet another vet visit to your schedule, we are strongly recommending that dog owners take this step to protect their pets.  Dogs infected with H3N2 often develop pneumonia, and are susceptible to serious secondary infections.  We have seen no complications or side effects from the vaccine.  Please consider doing your part to stop the spread of this disease by vaccinating your dog as soon as possible.

Zohan was very brave!

Hidden Holiday Hazards

Hidden Holiday Hazards

If you’ve gotten into the habit of following this blog, you probably know I’m forever warning pet parents of the dangers posed by holiday treats.  Chocolate is toxic. Fatty foods cause pancreatitis.  I know - you get it. At least I hope you do by now!  But what about some of those dangerous delicacies that aren’t quite as obvious?

One of the most common causes of pet poisoning comes from ingesting foods in the allium family.  If you’re fairly certain there’s no allium in your kitchen, think again.  The allium family consists of onions, garlic, leeks, shallots, chives, scallions, and hundreds of wild species. While these foods provide countless health benefits for humans, they can easily kill our cats and dogs.   Allium ingestion can lead to Heinz body anemia, a condition in which red blood cells are destroyed.  Clinical signs include lethargy, pale gums, weakness, loss of appetite, labored breathing, discolored urine, or collapse.  Cats are more likely to suffer from Heinz body anemia.  Since the culprits are present in so many of our foods, it is easy to forget what can safely be given to our pets.  The most severe case seen at Sabal Chase was that of a Jack Russell Terrier who had helped herself to a spice packet.  Santa had placed a chef’s gift basket under the tree, and while the misdeed had been noticed, the ingredients of the packet were not obvious.  It was not until the pet became gravely ill that her family put all of the pieces together.  While little Macy survived, she required thousands of dollars worth of emergency blood transfusions.  So while it’s the season for sharing, it’s best to refrain from sharing the holiday feast with our four-legged family members.

Macy spent Christmas at the emergency clinic after eating a spice packet.

Meet Berrin, Our December Pet Of The Month

Today is National Mutt Day, and to celebrate, we’ve named Berrin our December Pet of the Month!  Berrin was adopted from Miami Dade Animal Services, and her lineage is truly anybody’s guess.  Papillion? Spitz? Miniature Border Collie? Red Australian Cattle Dog? All of the above?  All we know for sure is that she is 100% adorable!  

Mixed breed dogs are less prone to congenital health problems.  They are great conversation starters (“What kind of dog is that?”), and are truly one of a kind.  So congratulations, Berrin, and tell all your friends - you’re our Pet of the Month!

Oh, and Happy National Mutt Day!

Pets And Diabetes

November is Pet Diabetes Awareness Month, and while diabetes in pets is not uncommon, many pet parents are surprised to learn that a disease so prevalent in humans can affect their pets as well. For reasons veterinary researchers do not fully understand, diabetes tends to be more common in female dogs than in males.  Certain breeds of dogs are predisposed as well, including, but not limited to, dachschunds, schnauzers, poodles, and pugs. Cats are far more likely to develop diabetes than dogs.  According to official numbers, 1 in 400 cats is diabetic, but since cats are experts at hiding signs of illness, the actual number is probably much higher.

Diabetes in both cats and dogs generally develops between six and nine years of age. Clinical signs include increased thirst, increased or inappropriate urination, recurring urinary tract infections, change in appetite, change in gait, and lethargy. Treatment can be as simple as a change in diet, but many pets require medication or insulin injections for life. A new type of insulin has been shown to put diabetic cats into remission after several months - or even weeks - of treatment! Just like their human counterparts, cats and dogs are far more prone to diabetes if they are overweight or obese.  For this reason, (and many others) it is wise to ensure your pets maintain a healthy weight and active lifestyle.

Meet Jade, Our November Pet Of The Month!

This November, our Pet of the Month is Jade! Jade is a 16-year-old tabby who’s got her whole family wrapped around her proverbial little finger.  And with good reason. Jade is always a trooper when she comes in to see Dr. Kupkee and all of her friends, and on most days, nothing seems to slow this sassy senior down.  Congratulations, Jade - tell all of your friends. You’re our Pet of the Month!
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Obesity and the Pet Food Marketing Machine

Obesity and the Pet Food Marketing Machine

We’ve all seen those adorable pet food commercials where a pet comes racing around the corner, and skids to a halt in front of a heaping bowl of food. Emphasis on heaping! If you’ll pardon the obvious pun, this is a huge pet peeve for me. Some advertisements feature toy breed dogs plowing into portions that would gorge a Golden Retriever.  With these types of images bombarding the pet owning public’s senses, it’s little wonder that over 60% of America’s pets are either overweight or obese.

In their zeal not to avoiding becoming victims of marketing, many consumers will take what is normally a wise course of action, and the read the instructions on their pet’s food for feeding suggestions. However, the suggested portions of dog and cat food printed on these bags are often enough to make my jaw hit the floor. Bear in mind that these are only suggestions, and many food companies would rather err on the side of overfeeding, as opposed to underfeeding.  Additionally, pet food companies are for-profit entities. At the risk of sounding like a conspiracy theorist, no company is going to print a label that basically tells consumers to please use less of their product! Generally speaking, I advise my clients to read the recommended feeding amounts on the package, and reduce that amount by at least 20%.  Your veterinary team can better advise you on the more quality foods the market has to offer, as well as the amounts best suited for your pet’s individual needs.

What is a Service Dog?

What is a Service Dog?

September is National Service Dog Month! It’s also a good time to answer one of the most commonly asked questions on this topic: What exactly IS a Service Dog?

According to the Department of Justice (the agency that regulates and protects Service Dogs under section III of the Americans with Disabilities Act), a Service Dog is trained to perform tasks that a disabled person cannot do, or tasks that alleviate the effects of a person’s disability.  For example, a Service Dog may be trained to dial 911, alert a diabetic handler to dangerous fluctuations in blood sugar levels, retrieve dropped items, guide a blind handler, or provide physical stability to a handler with mobility or balance issues.  A Psychiatric Service Dog might physically block a handler in a dissociative state from walking into dangerous situations, or may redirect a handler who suffers from panic attacks or PTSD.  By law, the behaviors that designate Service Dogs must be learned behaviors, as opposed to behaviors a dog may naturally display. For example, a dog whose mere presence provides comfort to a handler with an anxiety disorder is NOT a Service Dog. While such a dog may qualify as an Emotional Support Animal, or ESA, these animals are not granted the same rights and privileges as a Service Dog.  For more information, visit www.ada.gov/serviceanimals.

Meet Aya, Our September Pet Of The Month!

September is National Service Dog Month, and to celebrate, we’re featuring Aya, our September Pet of the Month! Aya is a three year old German Shepherd who assists her handler in overcoming mobility issues. Because of Aya, her owner is able to enjoy a quality of life that was previously impossible. For more information on Service Dogs, please visit www.ada.gov/serviceanimals.

Congratulations, Aya! Keep up the great work, and share with your friends - you’re our Pet of the Month!

Aya assists her handler, Sheila at the grocery store.

It's Back To School Time!

Summer is a time when many families decide to bring home a new pet.  When children are home from school, and routines are more relaxed, more time can be spent helping the new pet adjust, and teaching children about the responsibilities of pet ownership.  When the school year starts, and routines change drastically, the pet can easily become confused or develop separation anxiety.  This is especially true of pets who were brought home as puppies or kittens, and are now entering adolescence.

If you suspect your pet has the back-to-school blues, be sure to include them in the morning routine.

Feed them one of their main meals at this time, as they are more likely to sleep throughout the day if their belly is full.  Designate a special toy that is only given to them by the children, and only as the children are leaving for the day.  Look for toys marketed as food  puzzles or brain teasers that will allow your pet to entertain himself.  A “cat sitter” DVD with images of birds and squirrels can keep a bored kitty entertained for hours.  Allow both pets and children to play together and blow off steam as soon as the kids get home.  When it’s time for homework, encourage the pet to sit quietly near the children as they study.  Making the afternoon routine predictable and fun will give your pets something to look forward to, and make it easier for them to cope with being alone all day.

Dogs and Swimming

A question I am often asked during the summer is whether or not all dogs instinctively know how

to swim.  Many breeds of dogs, such as Golden Retrievers, Labrador Retrievers, and

Portuguese Water Dogs are both physically built and genetically wired for swimming, while

many other breeds do not fare nearly as well.  Dogs with deep chests, such as Boxers,

Weimaraners, and Great Danes are naturally top heavy, and may or may not be strong enough

to make up for this natural imbalance.  Brachycephalic, or “smushy-­faced” breeds such as Pugs, Bulldogs, and Boston Terriers tend to be very poor swimmers and are common victims of

drownings.  While some of these dogs may enjoy the water, my recommendation is to only allow

swimming if the dog is wearing a life ­vest, on a leash, and very closely supervised.

While Dachshunds are not generally a water-­loving loving breed, our little Grendel is a skilled

and enthusiastic swimmer! That being said, she has yet to figure out how to budget enough

energy to return to shore before running out of energy. This is not an uncommon problem, so

dog owners should be certain to teach their dogs how to reach the side of the pool and climb out

unassisted. Consider installing a doggie pool ramp and teaching your dog where it is and how to

use it.  Dogs that swim in natural bodies of water must be taught to return to you on command

without exception.  Since Grendel will not do this consistently, she is only allowed to swim in the

bay attached to a long, extendable leash.  As she ages, we are more inclined to add the life

vest.  It is important to remember our dog’s changing physical abilities as each new summer

rolls around.  Dogs that are elderly, blind, deaf, or prone to seizures must never be left

unattended near any bodies of water or unfenced pools.

Meet Leia, Our August Pet of the Month!

Leia was adopted last month from Miami Dade Animal Services. Leia rules the roost in her new home, and her favorite place to be is on top of her new dad’s head! Leia has plenty of friends looking for forever homes in our shelter. If you’ve thinking of adopting a furry friend, check out our social media platforms for details, using the hashtag #ClearTheShelters.

Congratulations Leia and share with your friends - you’re our Pet of the Month!

It's National Mutt Day!

Why We Love Mutts

July 31st is National Mutt Day! Here are just a few of the reasons why we love mutts.

They’re one of a kind

With all the genetic mixing that goes into the creation of a mutt, even two puppies from the same litter can look completely different. Chances are, you’ll never meet another dog that looks exactly like yours.

They tend to have fewer congenital health problems

While this has never been scientifically proven, or even studied, most vets agree that mixed-breed dogs have fewer breed specific problems than their purebred counterparts. Problems that we do see in mutts, tend to be less pronounced and easier to treat. For example, a German Shepherd mix with hip dysplasia is may respond beautifully to supplements and a change in exercise routines. A purebreed, however, is more likely to need expensive orthopedic surgery. Pet insurance companies would seem to agree, as mutts are cheaper to insure. Which leads to the next point.

They’re a heck of a bargain

Mutts are often adopted from shelters for a modest adoption fee. Additionally, they are usually spayed/neutered, microchipped, dewormed, heartworm tested and vaccinated before they leave the shelter. This saves hundreds of dollars in veterinary “start-up costs”. And did we mention they’re cheaper to insure?!

They’re great conversation starters

Whether it’s a trip to the dog park or a dog-friendly social event, someone is bound to ask “What kind of dog is that?” Instant ice-breaker!

You probably saved a life

Mixed breed dogs rarely make it out of shelters alive. And mutts seem to know it. Your reward? Unconditional loyalty and love, the likes of which you’d never imagined.

What do you love about your mutt? And don’t be shy! Send us a picture! We’d love to meet your mutt! 
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It's National Pet Fire Safety Day!

It’s National Pet Fire Safety Day!

According to the National Fire Protection Association,  roughly 1,000 house fires per year are accidentally started by pets.  While this number seems high, it’s a bit easier to fathom when you factor in all the ways in which our pets get into trouble.  Since today is National Pet Fire Safety Day, let’s talk about some ways to keep the whole family safe.

Switch to Flameless Candles

Many house fires are started when candles are knocked over by agile cats, or swept to the floor by dog’s wagging tail. It’s so easy to forget about a burning candle. Give yourself one less thing to worry about and switch to flameless varieties.

Cover Stove Knobs

A surprisingly high number of house fires are caused by “counter surfing” pets who accidentally turn on stove tops! Since toddlers and small children are guilty of this as well, there are many products on the market that turning on the stove impossible for both human kids and fur-kids.

Be Mindful of Electrical Cords

Dogs, puppies, kittens, cats, house rabbits - they all LOVE chewing and playing with electrical cords. Keep them out of your pet’s reach and consider securing pets in crates, or separate rooms when you are not at home.

Keep Crated Pets Near a Window or Door

This will make it easier for firefighters to reach them, which increases their chances of being rescued from a fire. Keep leashes nearby as well, as this can save precious time in a rescue situation.

Alert Firefighters to Your Pet’s Presence

If you don’t think firefighters are willing to risk their lives to save an animal, think again! That being said, make it a bit easier for them. If you’re calling in a fire, let them know how many pets you have and where they are located. Better yet, place “Save My Pet” decals on your windows. While we hope this type of advice is never needed, it’s always better to safe - and prepared - than sorry.

Our July Pet of the Month is Cleo!

Meet Cleo, our July Pet of the Month!

This July, our Pet of the Month is Cleo!

At age 12, Cleo has seen quite a few vet visits. But this sassy senior is always happy to see her fan club here at Sabal Chase - with or without her awesome red dancing shoes! Congratulations Cleo, and share with all your friends. You’re our Pet of the Month!

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Meet Humo, Our June Pet of the Month!

Meet Humo, our June Pet of the Month!

June is Adopt A Cat Month! And three-year-old Humo hit the jackpot with his adoptive family!

When it comes to showing signs of illness, cats can be masters of disguise. But when Humo's mom noticed he seemed down and out, she brought him right in for a checkup. As it turned out, Humo was suffering from a urinary tract condition which could have led to a complicated and costly surgery. Thanks to his mom's quick thinking and TLC, Humo is back to his old self - and up to his usual tricks!

Congratulations, Humo, and share with all your friends! You're our Pet of the Month!

To learn more, visit our website at sabalchaseanimalclinic.com/home.html