It's Disaster Preparedness Month!

It's Disaster Preparedness Month!

Across the country, September is Disaster Preparedness Month. And here in South Florida, that means making sure we're ready for the possibility of a hurricane. When storms approach, our local authorities diligently remind us how to prepare. But what about our pets?

Regarding emergency supplies, allot at least two to three gallons of water per pet. Each pet should have at least a week's worth of food and medications on hand before a storm arrives. Cats require at least a week's supply of extra cat litter per cat. A kiddie pool filled with sod can be kept indoors so dogs have a place to answer nature's call without the risk of going outdoors during a storm. If you plan to use a public shelter, bear in mind that Dade County only has two pet friendly shelters, and you must register to use them ahead of time. You can do this at any time by visiting www.miamidade.gov/hurricane or calling 786-331-5354. Pet owners are solely responsible for the care, feeding and walking of their pets while in the shelter. Be sure your pet's vaccinations are up to date, and bring proof of their vaccination status and registration.

With a little forward planning and due diligence, South Floridians can weather the worst of the season - and look forward to our beautiful winters!

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.

Meet Josie, Our August Pet Of The Month

World, meet Josie, our August Pet Of The Month!

Josie is a nine-year-old Yorkshire Terrier mix who is the apple of her mama's eye! When she's not showing off on social media, Josie enjoys playing with her four-legged sister and being the model lap dog.

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

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.

Meet Blue, Our June Pet Of The Month

World, meet Blue, our June Pet Of The Month!

This five-year-old pound puppy is a gentle giant who fancies himself a lap dag. When he's not giving kisses or being a marshmallow, Blue can be found on his favorite throw rug, snuggling with his sister, Luna.

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

Living With A High Energy Dog

Living With A High Energy Dog

Those of us living with high energy dogs often wonder why our dogs are not content to sit quietly at our feet while we lounge at an outdoor cafe. We may wonder how we have failed at training, or suspected we simply have "bad dogs."  Our dachshunds do their best, but sitting still in the presence of so many interesting scents and sounds is a very tall order. While it's a nice fantasy, and not an impossible undertaking, it is not who they are.

For a high energy dog, using their senses to complete a task is often much more meaningful - and fun - than simply being by our sides. These dogs often benefit from nose work, activities where dogs work to find a scented object. While often associated with law enforcement, these activities can easily be modified to fit into the patterns of life at home. The games are fun for humans as well as adults, and children especially enjoy helping Fluffy with her "job." Ask your veterinarian to recommend a Certified Professional Dog Trainer who can teach your family the basics of canine nose work.