Top Ten Winter Skin & Paw Care Tips

Exposure to winter’s dry, cold air and chilly rain, sleet and snow can cause chapped paws and itchy, flaking skin, but these aren’t the only discomforts pets can suffer. Winter walks can become downright dangerous if chemicals from ice-melting agents are licked off of bare paws.

Says Dr. Louise Murray, Vice President of the ASPCA Animal Hospital, “During the winter, products used as de-icers on sidewalks and other areas can lead to trouble for our animal companions, potentially causing problems ranging from sore feet to internal toxicity. Pet parents should take precautions to minimize their furry friends' exposure to such agents.” To help prevent cold weather dangers from affecting your pet’s paws and skin, please heed the following advice from our experts: 

· Repeatedly coming out of the cold into the dry heat can cause itchy, flaking skin. Keep your home humidified and towel dry your pet as soon as he comes inside, paying special attention to his feet and in between the toes. · Trim long-haired dogs to minimize the clinging of ice balls, salt crystals and de-icing chemicals that can dry on the skin. (Don’t neglect the hair between the toes!) 

· Bring a towel on long walks to clean off stinging, irritated paws. After each walk, wash and dry your pet’s feet to remove ice, salt and chemicals—and check for cracks in paw pads or redness between the toes. 

· Bathe your pets as little as possible during cold spells. Washing too often can remove essential oils and increase the chance of developing dry, flaky skin. If your pooch must be bathed, ask your vet to recommend a moisturizing shampoo and/or rinse. 

 · Dressing your pet in a sweater or coat will help to retain body heat and prevent skin from getting dry. · Booties help minimize contact with painful salt crystals, poisonous anti-freeze and chemical ice-melting agents. They can also help prevent sand and salt from getting lodged in between bare toes, causing irritation. Use pet-friendly ice melts whenever possible. · Massaging petroleum jelly into paw pads before going outside helps to protect from salt and chemical agents. And moisturizing after a good toweling off helps to heal chapped paws. 

· Brushing your pet regularly not only gets rid of dead hair, but also stimulates blood circulation, improving the skin’s overall condition. 

· Pets burn extra energy by trying to stay warm in wintertime, sometimes causing dehydration. Feeding your pet a little bit more during the cold weather and making sure she has plenty of water to drink will help to keep her well-hydrated, and her skin less dry. 

· Remember, if the weather’s too cold for you, it’s probably too cold for your pet. Animal companions should remain indoors as much as possible during the winter months and never be left alone in vehicles when the mercury drops. 

 SOURCE: https://www.aspca.org/pet-care/top-ten-winter-skin-paw-care-tips

Happy Halloween!

Happy Halloween! 

We are proud to highlight Taffy this Halloween! 

Taffy's owner came home to find the screen in her bathroom broken and Taffy was missing. When she found the kitty, she quickly noticed that Taffy had a big problem. THE CAT'S EYE WAS OUT! 

She rushed Taffy to us, and we assessed the situation. Miraculously, the protruding eye and a deep tongue laceration were Taffy's only injuries. It was better for the cat to have the eye removed, and one of our very talented doctors sutured he tongue back together. We still don't know what happened to Taffy, but she is very happy now and is just a bit more unique. 

Her sweet owner brought us these "Taffy Cookies" to thank us!

Ruby and Cooper Blog

My Devote Followers,

                My favorite time of year is finally here! I’m so glad that fall has finally arrived! All the leaves are changing, and the holidays are coming – and you all know how much I loooooove turkey!... And stuffing. And pumpkin pie! Anyway, I love everything about this time of year. Especially the weather! Even though it’s cooler, I’m glad these thoughtful technicians are still sure to get me my Revolution every thirty days! No need for pesky parasites or itchy fleas now, or ever! I’m too much of a lady for that… Time to go bathe in the sunlight. Talk to you soon my furless friends!

XOXO,

Princess Ruby

Dear Dudes,

                It’s finally time for that super special month of October, and my FAVORITE party of all time, Halloween! I totally love seeing everyone come in wearing their radically awesome costumes. Maybe I’ll find something this year to scare a hairball outta Ruby… That’d be absolutely righteous, dudes! Last year I was a mummy, and how do you top that?! It’s probably gonna take me forever, but I’ll think of something! I’m sure the staff here will be more than excited to find me something. I always look so rad dressed up. Better start bugging them now… To The Perch! See you soon!

Later,

Captain Cooper 

Pets & Chewing

It is natural for puppies to explore their environment; however, their natural curiosity often leads to frustration on your part when they chew your favorite slippers. While you may be tempted to punish your naughty pup, reinforcing good behavior is much more effective and will keep you and your dog happier. Chewing is a natural behavior that helps dogs relax and aids in dental health. It is important to provide proper chew toys for your dog. Additionally, giving your dog a specific time for chewing will help them ”wind” down for the night (similar to humans reading a book before bed).

Anxious chewing

However, not all chewing is good for your dog. Destructive chewing may be related to anxiety. It is important to teach your dog that he cannot always receive attention on demand. To reduce anxiety, train him to lie on his bed or in a crate, rather than constantly at your side. For dogs with separation anxiety, begin with short departures and then gradually increase the length of your time away to help them be comfortable and calm while you’re gone.

Anti-chew sprays

Anti-chew sprays can be used to deter your pup from chewing on household items. If you witness your puppy chewing on a household item, calmly walk over and spray the item with the anti-chew spray and firmly say ”leave it”. Instantly redirect your puppy’s attention by animating the dog toy in order to get him excited enough to chew it. Once the dog wants the toy give it to her and then softly praise the dog and back away (avoid turning this into an active game of tug-of-war; you simply want to get the dog interested in the toy). This will give the dog something to chew on and still remain in the calm state she was in previously.

Teething

Chew toys are a great way to keep your puppy busy as well as relieve pain associated with teething. Once the teeth erupt, the real chewing begins. The teeth seem to need “setting” into the jaw and this is accomplished through hard chewing. Present your puppy with a variety of toys to determine which types he likes best (avoid giving him chew toys that resemble household items that you do not want him to chew, i.e. a toy shaped like a shoe). Rotate different toys to keep your puppy’s interest and reward your puppy with praise when he chews on them. If the puppy seem to seek out a certain items that are not for chewing, try finding toys with similar textures because they may need that texture for dental health. Remember, buying a bunch of toys is a lot less expensive than replacing the furniture that he may chew up.

Source: http://www.aaha.org/pet_owner/pet_health_library/dog_care/behavior/chewing.aspx

Catching Up with Ruby & Cooper

My Beloved Fans,

                Whew! It sure has been quite the summer! I hope everyone is beating the heat! I know this fine feline has had a hard time keeping herself groomed with all this humidity! Cooper and I have been doing our best to stay cool and stay hydrated. The technicians and doctors always do a wonderful job of keeping water around for us to drink, although, I can’t say I enjoy sharing a cup with Cooper…

Anyway, I’ve heard the fleas and ticks have sure been out in full force this year. Not that this majestic mouser needs to worry, since those timely technicians are consistent in applying my Revolution every thirty days, which keeps me worm, flea, and tick free all year long! What can I say? I’m a diva. Ta-ta for now my furry friends!

XOXO,

                Princess Ruby

My Fellow Dudes,

                Bro life at the vet is pretty chill this summer, thanks to the A/C being available 24/7. I will have to say though, the view from the perch is super intense! So many puppies and little dudes – that’s hip for “kittens” – have been coming through the doors, it’s totally insane! I always get to catch a glimpse of them when they come to the treatment pad for their baby nail trims, on the house. Just a word to the youngins – I know nail trims can be a little harsh at first, but if your mom or pops keeps up on those, you’ll be a pro in no time! Also, be sure to tell your furless family about our puppy classes! It’s like school, but actually fun, and you get to meet a ton of new friends just like you! Welp, it’s been real dudes, but it’s time for me to head on up to my favorite blanket and take a little cat nap.

Peace!

                Captain Cooper

Welcome Dr. Stone!

We are proud to welcome Dr. Sabrina Stone as the newest doctor we have added to our veterinarian family here at Pekin Veterinary Clinic!

Dr. Stone's Biography:

"Becoming a veterinarian has always been a dream of mine growing up. In fact, I was so little that I told my mom I wanted to be a 'vegetarian' because I couldn't pronounce my t's correctly. I grew up in Antioch, IL, which almost makes me a Wisconsinite since my hometown is that close to Wisconsin. My undergraduate years were spent at the University of Wisconsin-Madison where I played the clarinet in the marching band. I then took 2 years off and went to Veterinary School at the University of Illinois Champaign-Urbana. However, I continue cheering for the Badgers, packers, and Brewers; like I said before, I grew up in the Wisconsin influence. My cat Midna, who is a long-hair, was born in the Madison, WI area. You may ask why I ended up staying in central Illinois, and that is because I fell in love with the clinic and the outstanding staff. In my free time, I like to go running, water related activities, and when it's snowing, I love to snowboard or just simply play in the snow. I also want to get more involved with golf, and Pekin seems like the perfect place for that!"

The entire team at Pekin Veterinary Clinic is so excited to have Dr. Stone on board with us, providing amazing care to the pets and people in the community!

Riddick

Riddick has a history of eating silly things... socks, toys, dish rags... 

He had not been feeling so great, so he was having a Barium Series done to check for a foreign body (a blockage in his intestines). 

A special liquid is given, it contains Barium - a metal radio-opaque solution, that shows up on a radiograph. Several radiographs (X-Rays) are taken over a period of time. We track the Barium flowing through the GI system. 

Riddick did great, what a lover-boy! No sock this time and now he is feeling great!
  

                                              

Bow Fishing Trip

One of our good friends and representative of the company Zoetis (the animal division of Pfizer) has a special boat for a fun sport of Carp Bow Fishing. Team members of Pekin Veterinary Clinic, including Dr. Jess, Dr. Penn, Courtney, Jennifer and Angela were a part of this fishing excursion.

We had a great time, the fish were not jumping much because the river is a bit high. The afternoon was perfect, the companionship was fun, and the drinks were cold!

 P.S. Not a single fish was harmed on this trip! 

Dangers of Pets in Hot Cars

BBQs and Pets

The end of May usually means the beginning of the summer season, and it’s often celebrated with picnics and barbecues. But if your pet is around during your summer cook-outs, keep them safe and away from grills, and keep picnic food far from their reach.

March: Ruby/Cooper

Ruby

To my dear fans,

As winter is nearing an end, I am glad to report that my attitude is fair. I have yet to bite a technician (today).  I have managed to become even more beautiful and feel more amazing these last few weeks. As many of you may know I used to have a weight problem, but my staff here has helped me achieve my goals of the healthy, beautiful shape you see today! 

I have included a photo of my first days here at Pekin Vet. DO NOT LAUGH. I repeat, DO NOT LAUGH or I will have you disposed of.  I have lost a total of about 16 pounds! I know, I know, you're like... “What's your secret, Princess Ruby!?!” “How did you get so beautiful?!”  Well, here it is. Eat less and move more!

 Yep, that’s it…Oh, and the help of a prescription diet and a strict measuring cup... If you want to know more just ask the stingy techs and doctors here.

Pssst, occasionally I can trick someone into feeding me twice! AND sometimes I steal Cooper's breakfast... He can be so dense sometimes! Ta-Ta for now suckers!

*Muah *Muah,

Princess Ruby

Cooper

Hey Dudes!

It’s your Captain speaking. It's been a tough winter, and with this nicer weather coming, I’ve changed my ‘tude a bit. I’ve lightened up my stick demeanor on the technicians. I sleep, eat, and watch everyone rush around while I doze on the counter tops. I don't have any bills to pay, and everyone wants to love on me, of course. Sometimes, taking it easy, can be more overwhelming than you would think! But I’m catching on just fine…

I should plan a trip. I do trip sometimes when I am thinking about food. food. foooood...fooooood. What? Where was I? Anyway, I can't complain. I only wish I knew what was going on with Ruby, she can be so sassy sometimes. And I have no idea what is with the smug look she gives me after breakfast sometimes. Like she knows something I don't. Like she is royalty or something. I like royalty. Prince William seems nice... Wonder if he ever goes by Prince Bill? What was I saying again? Anyway, take care, ‘till next time!

 Later Gater,

Captain Cooper

Tips on Being a Responsible Pet Owner

Owning a dog is not just a privilege-it's a responsibility. These animals depend on us for, at minimum, food and shelter, and deserve much more. If you are considering taking a dog into your life, you need to think seriously about the commitment that dog ownership entails. If you already have a dog, you need to consider if you are fulfilling all your obligations as its owner.

Here are some essential tips on being the best pet owner you can be:

• Think first- For example, recognize the commitment, evaluate your lifestyle, make a list, choose a breed, get a good breeder referral, contact some breeders in your area.

• Make the Commitment- pick your pet after you have researched the type of breed you want your pet to be, including their health risks. 

• Get Ready- Dog proof your home, make a schedule for you and your pet, buy some toys, a collar, contact your Veterinarian!

• Bring Your Dog Home- Housetrain, set house rules, name your dog, let your dog adjust, keep your dog healthy.

• Be a Friend- Play! Go on Walks, Talk to your dog, Give treats, Love your dog, give your time, leave the radio on, plan activities with your dog, give a massage, make that tail wag, go on trips, etc.

Source: http://www.akc.org/public_education/responsible_dog_owner.cfm#keephealthy

Ruby and Cooper

Ruby

Day 27 of the New Year and Cooper is still here. I haven’t been able to shake him yet. With this cold weather, it’s been impossible to plan my escape or his demise. I’ve ventured to the front desk many times, though. Weaving myself between legs and creeping past the swinging doors of the treatment area, each time a step closer to planning my path to the outdoors. I do have to admit, the weight loss does help in that matter. If only spring would hurry up already! I feel cabin fever is really setting in and I’m not sure how much more I can take of Cooper and his nonsense! I’ll report back later, once I come up with a better plan.

XOXO

Ruby

Cooper

Well, you guessed it! Captain Cooper is back to brighten your day. We are almost a month into the New Year, and MAN, is it COLD! Not much to do all day but wake up, eat, sleep, play, and, oh, yeah, bother Ruby. It seems my crew of technicians and doctors have everything under control so far in the treatment area, so I have trained them well. Anyway, back to Ruby. She seems a little upset the last few days. Maybe it’s this weather. It seems to be hard on a lot of us this time of year. I think I will bring her one of my toys or let her sit in my command spot and play with my favorite string!  I hope you all are staying as warm as you can out there. Let’s hope for some warmer weather soon!

Signing out,

Captain Cooper

Case Study of the Month

Fido, a 10 lb, 1 year old Jack Russell Terrier was presented to us after ingestion of some Nicotine gum.  With the ingestion of this type of gum in dogs we worry about TWO different toxicities, nicotine and a sugar called Xylitol.  A physical examination was performed and all was within normal limits.  

Fido's blood work was all within normal limits as well.  The idea behind bringing pets into the clinic after toxin ingestion is to decontaminate or help them vomit ASAP to prevent absorption into the blood stream, along with controlling any symptoms as a result of ingestion.  Pets are hospitalized in order to monitor them for the development of symptoms as a result of toxin ingestion.  Outlined below were the steps taken in Fido's case:

Step 1:  Since ingestion occurred less than 1 hour prior to Fido’s arrival and the patient was stable, we attempted to make him vomit to rid the stomach of its contents and prevent absorption into his blood stream.  We gave Fido several doses of hydrogen peroxide.  With no such luck we tried another emetic agent called apomorphine, which can only be obtained at a veterinary clinic.  Unfortunately, we were unable to induce vomiting. 

Step 2:  Since there is no antidote for either Nicotine or Xylitol toxicity, the next step is to give the patient activated charcoal.  This is performed if ingestion of the toxic substance occurred over an hour after presentation or after the patient stops vomiting.  Activated charcoal binds to the toxin and prevents absorption from the gut.  It is recommended that multiple doses be given. 

Step 3:  Fido was then put on intravenous fluids to flush/filter out the toxin (diuresis) more quickly. 

Step 4: Hospitalization and observation for any clinical signs associated with either toxin exposure as listed below was the final step for Fido.

·         Nicotine initially causes excitement, excess salivation, vomiting, diarrhea, and/or muscle tremors.  Symptoms can rapidly progress to muscle weakness, depression, shallow respiration and paralysis.  The ingestion of this toxin can lead to death because the respiratory muscles can't do their job.  The lethal dose is very little = 2-3mg/kg.  In Fido's case 3 pieces of gum could have been lethal! 

·         Xylitol causes a drop in blood sugar less than 60 minutes after ingestion causing depression, lethargy/weakness, muscle tremors, coma and possibly seizure.  This toxin causes liver damage within 8-12 hours after ingestion leading to vomiting, diarrhea, seizures and possibly death. 

Outcome:  Fido was very fortunate and he never showed any adverse symptoms as a result of the toxin ingestion due to our fast action in decontamination.  His blood sugar remained normal and we kept him on fluids in the hospital for 24 hours.  He was released to his owners the next day.  We followed up a week later to check blood work to make sure his liver wasn't affected by the Xylitol.  His lab work remained normal!  Fido is continuing to live a happy and healthy life with his loving family!