Tuesday, January 31, 2017

National Toothache Day_ Dental disease can lead to more problems than just bad breath!!!!



Feb 9th is National Toothache Day! At one time or another, we have likely all experienced and suffered through a toothache. This is a problem that our canine and feline pals can also suffer through. In addition to the pain and discomfort that dental problems cause, our pet’s dental issues can be a lot more serious than our own. Left untreated they can lead to life threatening infections and issues including heart, liver and kidney disease. 
This month, take advantage of 20% off our basic dental services. Whether you are starting a new dental routine or keeping on track with your pet’s regular dental cleanings, now is the time to lick dental disease. 

Call or click here to schedule your pet for a dental evaluation.

Schedule your appointment today!!
Here are a few tips to help you with the lifelong care of your pet’s teeth:
 1- Do NOT use human toothpaste for your dog. Don't forget that humans rinse after brushing, but dogs just swallow the toothpaste. An overdose of fluoride can cause vomiting and at higher levels can lead to kidney damage.

2- When possible, clean your dog's teeth manually and regularly with a dog toothbrush and toothpaste. It is ideal to start this from a pup but it can be started at any time in a dog's life

 3- If your dog will not allow you to do this and it ends in blood, sweat and tears, be aware that crunchy kibble is a lot better than soft food for teeth and you can also invest in a variety of chew bones and toys which also assist in teeth cleaning. 

4- Try to look inside your dog's mouth every week or so and if you spot any changes or any of the below then seek veterinary advice:
- Bad Breath
- Change in eating/ chewing habits
- Pawing at face or mouth
- Depression
- Excessive drooling
- Misaligned/ Missing teeth
- Discoloured/ broken/ missing/ crooked teeth
- Red, swollen, painful or bleeding gums
- Bumps or growths within the mouth

Tuesday, January 17, 2017

Top 3 Dog Emergency Room Visits!!!

When most dog owners think of the emergency room visits, they think of broken bones or severe traumas. However, the most common reasons for emergency room visits are minor problems that just happen to flare up after-hours when regular veterinary offices are closed, leaving emergency rooms as the only available option for treatment.

The costs of these ER visits varies depending on the area of the country, what tests were done, how serious the case was, and whether the canine’s issue was treated in the hospital or as an outpatient.

Here are the three most common reasons dogs are brought to the ER, the average costs to treat them, and how you can prevent them. Please note that these are just estimates, and every hospital will have their own unique rates.
 
1. Vomiting

Hands down, this brings more canine patients into emergency clinics than any other condition. There are lots of causes for vomiting, ranging from serious metabolic diseases to dietary indiscretions. If you bring your dog into an emergency room for vomiting, and he leaves with symptomatic treatment and no tests, you’re likely looking at a bill of $140 to $204. With blood work, x-rays and medication to bring home, that cost jumps to $325 to $580, and
with blood work, x-rays, IV fluids, medication, and 24-hour hospitalization, you’re looking at a $480 to $855 bill.

You can help prevent vomiting in your dog by always feeding him a good quality diet (no table scraps!). Also, don't feed your dogs cooked or small bones, and resist giving them bones with lots of fat or raw meat. Prevent exposure to trash and any other objects that your dog may swallow. Finally, whenever you make any changes to your dog’s diet, do them gradually.

2. Diarrhea

Parasites, dietary changes or indiscretions, and metabolic diseases can cause diarrhea. Another common cause of diarrhea (and vomiting) is parvovirus. Commonly called "parvo," this virus can quickly weaken an otherwise healthy dog and is frequently fatal. Make sure your dog is properly vaccinated against parvo during their regular veterinary exam. An ER visit for diarrhea with symptomatic treatment and no tests will cost $100 to $188. With blood work, x-rays and medication to bring home, you’re looking at a $365 to $540
 bill, and with blood work, x-rays, IV fluids, medication, and 24-hour hospitalization, $480 to $795.

The best ways to prevent diarrhea in dogs is to prevent exposure to trash. When letting your dog outside, keep him confined to a fenced-in yard or on a leash to prevent him from getting into and eating things he shouldn't. Diet is also key. Be sure to consistently feed your dog good quality food, avoid cooked bones (especially those used to prepare people food), and keep his diet free of greasy or fatty foods. Again, make any dietary changes gradually.

3. Not Eating

The lack of an appetite is a common symptom and can be caused by just about every problem a dog can get, from very minor to serious. It also can be very scary for a dog owner, which is why it often leads to ER visits. With symptomatic treatment and no tests, the ER bill will be $120 to $165, with blood work, x-rays and medication to bring home, $390 to $570, and with blood work, x-rays, IV fluids, medication, and 24-hour hospitalization, $475 to $820.

Because there are so many possible causes (including infections, trauma, parasites, and various other diseases), this is one condition that is hard to prevent. The best thing you can do is to keep your dog safe and prevent exposure to problem items such as trash, medications, and toxins.

The Best Prevention

These three problems are very common and, unfortunately, they are likely to affect your dog at one time or another. And the costs for these ailments can add up — especially as some may require more than one visit or supervised time in the hospital for recuperation or to determine the underlying causes.

Do you have a separate savings account set up for your dog to cover ER visits and major veterinary expenses? If not, then you should consider pet insurance. It’s more affordable than most pet owners think, and with a number of different plans and options, you’re sure to find the right plan for your dog — and your budget. 

http://www.petplace.com/

Broward Meals on Wheels Food Drive Results are in!!



Results are in! This year’s VCA Hollywood Animal Hospital Broward Meals on Wheels Pet Food Drive has collected 4450 lbs of food and $2000, enough food to fill the bellies of our pet community for at least the next 6 months.

Local clients donated 3650 lbs of pet food and $900 in monetary contributions to our various collection sites. Through the generosity of our VCA vendors Zoetis, Hills Pet Nutrition, Purina, Trupanion Pet Insurance, Elanco and Virbac, VCA HAH donated an additional 800 lbs of food and $1100 delivering a total donation of 4,450 lbs of food and $2000 to the Broward Meals on Wheels for Companions Animal effort. These donations will support the pets of home bound seniors over the next 6 months.

We all know the powerful role that pets play in our lives. This companionship and undeniable love is what keeps us thriving. The same is true for our citizens who receive monthly aid. Broward Meals on Wheels (BMOW) for Companion Animals delivers pet food once a month to homebound seniors who need assistance taking care of their in-home pets.   The success of this food drive ensures that no pet is left hungry for months to come.

VCA Hollywood Animal Hospitals could not be more proud to partner with our local VCA’s and Pet Supplies Plus to get the word out about the work of this wonderful organization.

Anyone interested in volunteering to help deliver food to these pets in need can call Bobbi at 954-295-7709 or email her at stony12345@aol.com

For additional information about BMOW, please visit http://www.bmow.org/our-services/ 

Friday, January 13, 2017

VCA Charities Pet Food Pantry


Since this is the season of new beginnings and sharing, we wanted to take this opportunity to share images and highlights from the VCA CharitiesPet Food Pantry 1.5 million meals served event held in New York City on December 14, 2016. The Pet Food Pantry program was Launched in June 2010 from one location in Venice, CA the program has since expanded to 28 locations in (18 States). The Pet Food Pantry program is co-sponsored by Hill’s Pet Nutrition. Hill’s & VCA are proud partners in this amazing community program and both companies are committed to continue to help provide nutritious pet food to pet owners who could not otherwise afford it. At the foundation of this heartfelt program are the dedicated VCA & Hill’s staffers that volunteer their time and efforts to help those in need and for that we sincerely applaud you!
Congratulations and a huge thank you to the entire VCA Family. If you have VCA charitable news or an amazing story of how VCA cares that you would like to share with the entire company, please don’t hesitate to contact me. Thank you again for your continued support of VCA Charities!
VCA Charities Pet Food Pantry 1.5 million meals served event video:
ABOUT VCA Charities
VCA Charities is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that supports programs and organizations that directly help pets in need. Established in 2005 by the founders of VCA Animal Hospitals.
Ø  VCA Charities is proud to provide financial assistance to over 70 companion animal nonprofit organizations annually across the country.
ABOUT VCA Pet Food Pantry Program
VCA Charities launched the Pet Food Pantry program in June 2010 from one location in Venice, CA. The mission of the Pet Food Pantry program is to provide healthy, nutritious pet food to needy families that could not otherwise afford it.
Ø  28 Pet Food Pantry locations in 18 states.
Ø  Co-sponsored by Hill’s Pet Nutrition.
Ø  Over the history of the program we have provided over 1.5 million meals to pets in need.
Ø  Annually through the program we help provide over 30,000 lbs. of pet food.
Ø  Retail value of over $5,000/pantry location.
Ø  Our agreement with Hill’s allows for VCA to open a minimum of 4 new Pet Food Pantry locations per year.

Thursday, January 12, 2017

Dental disease can lead to more problems than just bad breathe.

Dental disease can lead to more problems than just bad breathe. 

 This is the time to take a closer look at your pet's dental health. As our teeth are a very important part of our overall health so is our pets. Dental problems can often cause or be caused by other health problems.  This is why each year we raise awareness of the importance of veterinary dentistry though our extended Pet Dental Month incentives.
With national focus on pet dental care, you will find great incentives to help you keep your pet's pearly white sparkling. 

Bad breath is not the only indication that your pet may need a dental. Call to schedule your pet's dental service today!!!

 
From now until March 31st we will be take 20% off our basic dental services. To ensure that your pet can maintain their new beautiful smile, you will also get a homecare dental kit to take with you.*

What you need to know about your pet's dental health!!! 

From now until March 31st we will be take 20% off our basic dental services.



Here are some reasons why dental care is so important for your pet: 

1. A pet with healthy teeth equals a pet with better breath!

2. Dental disease can actually lead to problems with your pet’s organs, such as the heart.

3. Retained baby teeth can cause problems in pets too! Did you know that full grown dogs have 42 teeth and full grown cats have 30 teeth? Before their adult teeth grow in, though, their baby teeth have to fall out. Sometimes, not all of the baby teeth want to come out. This can lead to problems like gum irritation and tartar buildup.

4. Caring for your pet’s teeth can prevent other health problems, saving you tons of money over the long term!
5. You need regular dental care and you brush your teeth everyday – why wouldn’t your pets? Your veterinarian and these handy videos can help you learn to brush your dog's teeth and your cat's teeth.

6. Did you know that 4 out of 5 dogs over the age of 3 years have some sort of periodontal disease? It can be caused by the buildup of plaque, so it’s important to go in for regular dental checkups and cleanings. 

7. Pets that don’t get dental care can painfully lose their teeth – this can be terribly painful and cause serious health problems.

8. Your dog and cat are very good at hiding pain – you might never know that your pet has a serious dental problem until it’s very advanced. This is yet another reason it’s important to take your pet in for regular dental checkups.

9. Teeth wear out! Your pets are tough on their teeth. 

10. Periodontal disease affects up to 80% of all adult pets. It is 2.4 times more expensive to treat dental disease than to prevent it. 

Call us at 954-920-3556 and ask us how you can SAVE on incredible dental care and products. 
SOURCE: http://www.pethealthnetwork.com/dog-health/dog-checkups-preventive-care/10-reasons-why-you-should-take-care-your-pets-teeth

Tuesday, January 10, 2017

Dental care for your pet may be more important than you think.

Dental care for your pet may be more important than you think. The accumulation of bacteria laden plaque above the gumline can lead to long term oral health issues. Recent studies have demonstrated there is an association between oral health issues and systemic general health issues affecting the kidney, heart and metabolic systems.
Nutritionists & veterinarians have developed prescription diet like Hills t/d® that are clinical nutrition formulated especially to support your dog's dental health. In fact, these diets can reduce plaque, stain, & tartar buildup. 


At VCA HAH we recommend Hills t/d diet to be used as a complete diet or even a great snack to help ware off that pesky plaque.

How quality dental diets helps fight dental disease:

  • Cleans the tooth surface
  • Fights bacteria-laden plaque
  • Promotes overall health
  • Recommended for lifelong feeding of adult dogs

How t/d works is bu using unique kibble shape & size made of a special fiber matrix technology that offers complete & balanced nutrition


 Souces: http://www.hillspet.com/en/us/products/pd-canine-td-dry

Past and Present, Dr. Jon Dee ACVS Foundation Award Winner 2016 and Dr. Jessica Duhon

Past and Present, Dr. Jon Dee ACVS Foundation Award Winner 2016 and Dr. Jessica Duhon


Dr. Jon Dee, a 1966 Auburn Veterinary School graduate and a Diplomate of the American College of Veterinary Surgeons, received the ACVS’sFoundation Legends Award October 6 2016 in Seattle. Dr. Dee practices veterinary surgery at VCA Hollywood Animal Hospital. In his words, he “fixes broken puppy dogs.” In addition he has done research on orthopedic injuries of sporting dogs, contributed to journals and coauthored surgery books, and taught interns at VCA Hollywood Animal Hospital and as adjunct professor at both The Ohio State and the University of Florida Veterinary Schools. Dr. Dees’s other accolades include 1986s AVMA’s Practitioner Research Award and 1991’s AAHA Practitioner of the Year Award, Southeast Region.
 
Dr. Jessica Duhon, a 2014 Ross University School of Veterinary Medicine, is continuing in the family tradition like her grandfather Dr. Fredericksen and her second uncle Dr. Dee. Her grandfather Dr. I.C. Fredericksen and Dr. Jon Dee’s father, Dr. C.E. Dee started Hollywood Animal Hospital in 1947. Dr. Duhon went to University of Georgia for her undergraduate studies and initially was pre-nursing, but she knew her passion was with animal medicine. She went to Ross and completed her final year at Auburn University like her uncle. Dr. Duhon came to VCA Hollywood Animal Hospital for her internship and has continued on as a staff associate veterinarian.

I sat down with the two veterinarians in their office at VCA Hollywood Animal Hospital and chatted.
We spoke about the state of veterinary medicine. Dr. Dee was concerned about student debt. Dr. Duhon agreed and knew students at Ross who weren’t even able to graduate but were saddled with large debt. But we all agreed that you decide what you want, and none of us thought we were going into veterinary medicine for the money. 

Dr. Dee admitted that he wasn’t sure what he wanted to do when he was in college as an undergraduate in Auburn. His father told him to do whatever you want, but be the best at it that you can be. He decided on veterinary medicine when he decided there was nothing else he would like to do.
I asked Dr. Dee why his children did not go into veterinary medicine, and he didn’t know. The passion has to be within you and his niece, Dr. Duhon, seemed to have inherited the gene. Dr. Dee said that he would definitely choose veterinary medicine if he went back to his youth and had a choice to do it all over again. I am sure Dr. Duhon will feel the same way after she has been practicing for 50 years.

December Newsletter-http://www.browardcountyvma.com/