Friday, December 14, 2012

Candy/Chocolate Dangers

Candy and chocolate are delicious snacks for us, but dangerous for our pets to eat! Be sure to keep all sweet treats out of your pet’s reach this holiday season, to ensure they are happy, healthy, and safe.

Tuesday, November 20, 2012

November Pet of the Month: Buddy Norman


Buddy Norman is our November Pet of the Month! Buddy is a very sweet Westie Mix. His owner's name is Paula Norman. Buddy has been coming to our facility for grooming for about 5 years. He is such a joy to groom, as his grooming history cards says he is 'a very sweet boy!' Congratulations to our November Pet of the Month Buddy Norman! See you next month, Buddy!

Thursday, November 15, 2012

Holiday Foods

During the holiday season, it’s important to make sure your pet is safe. Many of the foods we eat for the holidays are dangerous for our pets and could injure them or make them sick. Sugary treats, turkey, and especially turkey bones are things our pets should never eat. Keep an eye on your pet this holiday!

Wednesday, September 26, 2012

Are You Allergic To Your Pet?


Breathe easy! 


You can still keep your animal companion! 


Although more and more people are discovering the beneficial effects of owning a furry bundle of joy, the fact remains that roughly 15 to 20 percent of the population is allergic to animals. The result? Countless owners in unhappy, unhealthy situations—and their beloved pets are the cause! Allergen is the medical term for the actual substance that causes an allergic reaction. Touching or inhaling allergens leads to reactions in allergic individuals. Symptoms can include red, itchy, watery eyes and nose; sneezing; coughing; scratchy or sore throat; itchy skin, and most serious of all, difficulty breathing.
The most common pet allergens are proteins found in their dander (scales of old skin that are constantly shed by an animal), saliva, urine and sebaceous cells. Any animal can trigger an allergic response, but cats are the most common culprits. People can also become allergic to the urine, dander and saliva of exotic pets such as ferrets, guinea pigs, birds, rabbits and rodents. There is no species or breed to which humans cannot develop allergies. Fur length and type will not affect or prevent allergies. Certain pets can be less irritating than others to those who suffer from allergies, but that is strictly on an individual basis and cannot be predicted.
Once the diagnosis of a pet allergy is made, a physician will often recommend eliminating the companion animal from the surroundings. Heartbreaking? Yes. Absolutely necessary? Not always. Keep in mind that most people are allergic to several things besides pets, such as dust mites, molds and pollens, all of which can be found in the home. Allergic symptoms result from the total cumulative allergen load. That means that if you eliminate some of the other allergens, you may not have to get rid of your pet. (Conversely, should you decide to remove your pet from your home, this may not immediately solve your problems.) You must also be prepared to invest the time and effort needed to decontaminate your home environment, limit future exposure to allergens and find a physician who will work with you. Our three-part program follows:

Improving the Immediate Environment

  1. Create an allergen-free room. A bedroom is often the best and most practical choice. By preventing your pet from entering this room, you can ensure at least eight hours of freedom from allergens every night. It's a good idea to use hypoallergenic bedding and pillow materials.
  2. Limit fabrics. Allergens collect in rugs, drapes and upholstery, so do your best to limit or eliminate them from your home. If you choose to keep some fabrics, steam-clean them regularly. Cotton-covered furniture is the smartest choice, and washable blinds or shades make good window treatments.
  3. Vacuum frequently using a vacuum equipped with a HEPA (high-efficiency particulate arresting) filter or a disposable electrostatic bag. Other kinds of bags will permit allergens to blow back out of the vacuum.
  4. Install an air purifier fitted with a HEPA filter. Our modern, energy-efficient homes lock in air that is loaded with allergens, so it’s smart to let in some fresh air daily.
  5. Use anti-allergen room sprays. These sprays deactivate allergens, rendering them harmless. Ask your allergist for a product recommendation.
  6. Clean the litter box frequently. Use lowdust, perfume-free filler. Clumping litter is a good choice.
  7. Dust regularly. Wiping down the walls will also cut down on allergens.
  8. Invest in washable pet bedding and cages that can be cleaned often and easily.

Decontaminating Your Pet

  1. Bathe your pet at least once a week. Your veterinarian can recommend a shampoo that won't dry out his skin. Bathing works to wash off the allergens that accumulate in an animal’s fur.
  2. Wipe your pet with a product formulated to prevent dander from building up and flaking off into the environment. Ask your veterinarian to suggest one that is safe to use on animals who groom themselves.
  3. Note any symptoms of dermatitis exhibited by your companion animal. Dermatitis often leads to accelerated skin and fur shedding, which will up your allergen exposure.
  4. Brush or comb your pet frequently. It’s best to do this outdoors, if possible. (The ASPCA does not recommend keeping cats outdoors, so make sure your feline is leashed if you take him outside.)

Taking Care of Yourself

  1. If possible, have someone other than yourself do the housecleaning, litter box work and pet washing, wiping and brushing. If you must clean the house or change the litter, be sure to wear a dust mask.
  2. Wash your hands after handling your companion animal and before touching your face. The areas around your nose and eyes are particularly sensitive to allergens.
  3. Designate a “pet outfit” from among your most easily washed clothes. Wear it when playing or cuddling with your companion, and you’ll leave other clothing uncontaminated.
  4. Find a physician, preferably an allergy specialist, who will make sure that your pet is the cause of your allergies and will help alleviate your symptoms. Medications and immunotherapy (desensitizing shots) can often allow you and your companion animal to remain together happily ever after.

Tuesday, September 11, 2012

Plants Poisonous to Cats


Cats are curious creatures, and because they can’t handle things with their paws the way we can with our hands, they often use their noses and mouths to learn more about the world around them. There are many plants that could be dangerous, even poisonous, for our cats, so it’s important to keep those plants out of our yards, and especially out of our homes. For a list of dangerous plants and their descriptions, please visit the list of poisonous plants.

Thursday, August 16, 2012

August 18 is National Homeless Animal Day

Did you know that August 18 is National Homeless Animal Day, honoring pets in shelters? If you’re looking for a new pet, we encourage you to visit the shelter to consider adopting an animal in need. There are many great dogs in shelters, just waiting for a second chance.

Wednesday, August 15, 2012

Pets & Truck Beds

Did you know that letting your pet ride in the bed of your truck can be extremely dangerous, even if you’re traveling at low speeds? Dogs are known to jump and run after things or animals that appeal to them, and jumping from a moving vehicle can cause serious injury. We ask that you NEVER let your pet ride in the back of a truck, but always inside where they are safely secured.

Tuesday, August 14, 2012

Pets & Camping Safety

Are you taking your dog with you on a family camping trip this summer? Don’t forget to be prepared for pet care! It’s important that your pet is up-to-date on parasite prevention and has plenty of food and fresh, filtered or sanitized water to drink at the campground. Also, be prepared for safety by ensuring that your campground of choice allows dogs to visit, and that your dog has a place to sleep, preferably inside the tent where they won’t be bitten by insects or pestered by wild animals! Be safe, and the trip will be that much more fun!

Thursday, June 7, 2012

Pets In Cars

Summertime is almost here and that means a wonderful time to be outdoors and enjoy longer days with our pets, but caution is advised; danger lurks on these bright beautiful days. Driving around, parking, and leaving your pet in the car for "just a minute" can be deadly. Just a few minutes in a car during the summer months can raise the temperature to as much as 120 degrees -- even with the windows cracked.

Wednesday, June 6, 2012

Social PETworking Month

June is Social PETworking Month! This is a month designated to help pair families with homeless pets. The campaign allows Facebook, MySpace and Twitter addicts to put their hours online to good use by advertising adoptable pets to their networks to help get them seen and into loving homes. So if you know of any pets in need of good homes, take to Facebook, MySpace, Twitter, and get the word out this June!

Tuesday, April 24, 2012

April Pet of the Month: Dobby

Our April Pet of the Month is Dobby Robby Goss. He is an adorable, energetic little Apricot Poodle. He is approximately 7 years old and has been groomed here since a little over 4 years ago. He is loved and spoiled by his owner, Marita Goss who lives here is Pekin. Can't you just see the personality?

Monday, April 23, 2012

Pets & Lawn Fertilizer

Did you know that lawn fertilizer can be toxic to your pet if consumed? If your dog likes to roll in the grass, dig holes, or lick their feet after coming inside, you should use caution when choosing your lawn fertilizer. Always read all packages carefully before purchasing, as most manufacturers have specific recommendations about how long your pets should remain off the grass after application. When possible, use products specifically labeled as "pet-safe", to lessen the danger.

Thursday, April 19, 2012

Mobilize the Earth for Earth Day 2012

The first Earth Day, on April 22, 1970, activated 20 million Americans from all walks of life to speak out against the deterioration of the environment and demand change. As a result, the Environmental Protection Agency was created, the Clean Air, Clean Water, and Endangered Species Acts were passed,and the modern environmental movement was born.

Today, more than 1 billion people in 192 countries participate in Earth Day activities each year, making it the largest civic observance in the world. This year, in the face of global inaction on pressing environmental problems, we must harness that power.

Earth Day Network is calling upon individuals, organizations, businesses and governments to Mobilize the Earth™ and demand that environmental issues become a top priority.

Tuesday, April 3, 2012

Pets & Easter Lilies

Lilies are a popular Easter flower, but did you know that they can actually be toxic to your pet? Like the Christmas poinsettias, lilies can attract the attention of your pet, especially cats, and then have a toxic effect when ingested. Keep those Easter lilies far from your pet's reach this season, or look into artificial options. The art of artificial flowers have gotten so advanced that your guests won't be able to tell the difference...and your pet will be safe.

Monday, March 5, 2012

Duke is Receiving Therapeutic Laser Treatments

Duke is receiving therapeutic laser treatments at Pekin Veterinary Clinic for a lick granuloma on his paw He is owned by Feyza Clendenin. Duke really seemed to be enjoying the glasses.


 

March is Poison Prevention Month

March is Poison Prevention Month. Did you know that some of the most common household items that poison pets include human medication, both prescription and over the counter? With over 25,000 reported cases of pets poisoned by eating human medicine, it’s important to exercise extreme caution when it comes to storing these items! Keep your medications high up on shelves and closed inside cabinets, where your pet cannot access them. It’s also important to open bottles over counters so that any dropped pills don’t end up on the floor where they can be snapped up by a curious pet. Use precaution, and give your pet a long, healthy life.
 

Tuesday, February 7, 2012

Dr. Jess Away at Seminar

We are proud to announce that Dr. Jess is attending the Echocardiography Diagnostics and Clinical Cardiology Seminar in Arlington, Texas this week! Dr. Jess is getting education on the diagnostic principles of echocardiography so he can better assist your pets! The seminar was created by Sound-Eklin, the veterinary industry’s #1 Digital Imaging Company, with leadership positions in Ultrasound, Digital Radiography, and Imaging Education.

Friday, January 20, 2012

Amazing Dog Trick

This courageous canine is able to perform amazing acrobatics. What is the most incredible trick your pet can do?

Tuesday, January 3, 2012

2011 Most Popular Pet Names

Most popular feline names for females
1. Bella
2. Chloe
3. Lucy
4. Sophie
5. Lily
6. Molly
7. Gracie
8. Princess
9. Sasha
10. Cleo
Most popular feline names for males
1. Max
2. Oliver
3.Tiger
4. Charlie
5. Simba
6. Buddy
7. Smokey
8. Tigger
9. Jack
10. Sammy
Most popular canine names for females
1. Bella
2. Lucy
3. Molly
4. Daisy
5. Maggie
6. Sophie
7. Chloe
8. Sadie
9. Lola
10. Bailey
Most Popular canine names for males
1. Max
2. Buddy
3. Charlie
4. Rocky
5. Bailey
6. Jake
7. Cooper
8. Jack
9. Toby
10. Cody
VPI's compete list of popular pet names for 2011 will be released in early January, 2012.

Monday, January 2, 2012

Today is National Pet Travel Safety Day

Today is National Pet Travel Safety Day! The mission of this day is to save lives by creating awareness of the vital need for pet safety in all areas of travel. Safe Travels!