March Team Member of the Month- Karlyne

Many of you may see this face and immediately recognize her for her many years of service to the VCAHAH. If so, then you will also be reminded of the years we were without her.  Thankfully, though Karlyne has returned to our animal house and somehow all seems right again.

When Karlyne began working at the VCAHAH, now almost 10 years ago, she began by learning the ropes as a Veterinarian Assistant (VA).  She was a star employee who quickly rose through the ranks and was asked to be VA team leader. This role was perfect for her, she was a star. However, when family called, Karlyne had to answer and for several years she shared her talents elsewhere.
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Since her return, Karlyne has fallen right back into her role as a leader. She exudes positivity and the staff gravitates to her whenever in need of a helping hand. She can always be counted on to get the job done, not only with 'lightening speed' but with a critical eye on perfection.

She fits in well with our family and "has the patience of a saint- both with our patients and staff!"
She is a true asset to our practice and to our team. We are thrilled she is back and happy to recognize her as our March Team Member of the Month!

VCA Hollywood Animal Hospital National Pet Dental Quarter!!!

While February is National Pet Dental Month, at the VCA Hollywood Animal Hospital it is National Dental Quarter!!!

Dental health and hygiene affects the health and well-being of the whole body. Tartar, gingivitis and more severe periodontal disease causes pain, bad breath and can lead to other more severe diseases. We invite you to come in and allow our trained doctors and staff to provide an evaluation of your pet’s dental health. We will provide you with information about your pet’s dental condition, information about treatment options as well as help you formulate a plan to prevent disease.

From now until March 31st, schedule a dental for your four-legged friend and receive 20 % OFF routine dental services*.  Each dental service will include an Orastrip periodontal disease test, a thorough exam and cleaning of your pet’s teeth and a FREE CET home care dental product.

Schedule your pet's dental appointment today (954) 920-3556!!

*If your pet requires advanced dental services such as extractions, pre-anesthetic blood panels and dental x-rays, these services are available at an additional non-discounted cost.

History of the VCA Hollywood Animal Hospital

Front of HAH

Our History 

The Hollywood Animal Hospital was originally built in 1947 by Dr. C.E. Dee and Dr. I.C. Frederickson on what was then the western edge of the City of Hollywood. The announcement of their practice at 2864 Hollywood Boulevard was sent to the community on November 1, 1947. The phone numbers at that time were Hollywood #1253, Ft. Lauderdale #862 and Miami # 7-7727. 

The original announcement to the community about the opening of our practice.

In 1978, we completed the construction of our current medical facility and in 1996, opened the Outpatient Clinic, which is also referred to as the Annex, located next to the hospital.

In 2010, the construction of our final addition commenced adding several thousand square feet to our practice and expanding our services to include a comprehensive Canine Physical Rehabilitation Center and CT scanner facilities.

In 2014, Veterinary Centers of America (VCA) purchased our practice and included us in a family of practitioner over 750 strong.

Since its inception, the VCA HAH (as it is commonly referred to) has grown to include a staff of more than 22 doctors including Boarded General and Specialist Veterinarians. With more than 100 technical and support staff employed compassionate and communicative team appreciate the special role that pets play in our lives.  In addition, we prioritize the lifelong commitment to continuing education as an integral part of the philosophy of our medical staff.

We are an ever growing animal hospital available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year to provide the finest veterinary care to our patients and to assure that their owners are well informed and comfortable with the decisions made regarding their pets care.

View of VCA HAH from the west. You can see our outdoor kennels and running areas for our pets.

A client saying "Good-bye" to their pet as they leave them to board.

Dr. Dee Sr. evaluating a puppy.

Here are a few of the original images from the 1940's of Hollywood Animal Hospital.

Dr. Dee Sr. using fluoroscopy (their current form of 'radiographs') to evaluate and injured leg

 

Staff area patio.

Lab, Pharmacy, Treatment area

Community Bank Now Collecting for BMOW!!!

 We are very proud to announce the partnership with Community Bank in Hollywood in our efforts to support Broward Meals on Wheels for Companion Animals Food Drive. This community business has started their own drop off point for donations to give back this season.



Between now and December 20th dog and cat food donations can be made at either VCA HAH buildings or  Community Bank in Hollywood.


We are so grateful to be a part of this community!!!

Two Locations!!!

The HAH  

2864 Hollywood Blvd

954-920-3556

WHEN:

M-SAT 7:30a- 7:00pm 

Community Bank
4600 Hollywood Blvd
954.983.7771

M-TH- 8:30a-5p
Fri- 9-6p

WHEN:

Now until- December 20, 2014

OBESITY IN DOGS

Definition: Obesity (the storage of excess fat) is usually caused by excessive food intake and insufficient exercise. 

• Estimates show that 40% to 50% of dogs are overweight and 25% of dogs are obese.

• Dogs can develop many obesity-related health problems. 

• By examining your dog, veterinarians determine whether he or she is overweight or obese and help you create a weight-loss program. 

• The most effective weight-loss plans involve increasing activity and feeding fewer calories. Causes Obesity (the storage of excess fat) is typically caused by excessive food intake and insufficient exercise. 

•  According to estimates, 40% to 50% of dogs are overweight and 25% are obese. Obesity is more common in older, less active pets. Dogs that are fed homemade meals, table scraps and snacks are more likely to be overweight than dogs eating only a high-quality commercial pet food. 

 Diagnosis and treatment 

There are many obesity-related health problems, and some medical conditions can lead to obesity. So it’s important to take your dog in for annual checkups. Remember, you can’t judge if your dog is overweight merely by putting him or her on a scale. By examining your dog, veterinarians can use weight, overall body condition, and other indicators to tell you whether he or she is overweight or obese, what the probable cause is, and what the best weight-loss regimen is. Don’t feel bad if you are told your dog is too heavy. 

Everyone knows that dieting can be challenging. But losing weight can help your dog live longer, avoid disease and feel better, so it is well worth the effort. Get veterinary advice before changing your dog’s eating and exercise habits. Veterinarians are trained to recommend an appropriate diet and exercise program for safe weight loss. When helping your dog lose weight, slower is safer. “Crash” diets or intense workouts aren’t appropriate for inactive dogs. If your dog gained the weight slowly, he or she can lose it slowly. The most effective weight-loss plans involve increasing activity and feeding fewer calories. The more convenient you make it, the better the chance of sticking with it. When on a weight-loss program, your dog should lose 2% or less of its initial body weight per week. For example, a 100-pound dog should lose no more than 2 pounds every week. A successful weight-loss program may take a year or longer. 

Diet 

There are several dietary strategies for helping your dog lose weight. One or more of the following may be recommended by your veterinary hospital. For all of these methods, it’s important to use an actual measuring cup (not an old coffee mug or drinking cup) to keep track of how much you’re feeding your dog. Feed your dog smaller meals more often. This helps your dog burn more calories and should help minimize begging for food. However, don’t feed more food per day. Instead, divide your dog’s daily ration into three or more feedings. Feed your dog less of its regular food per day. This strategy is most effective with increased activity. But check first with your veterinarian to ensure that your dog will receive the right amount of nutrients. Instead of feeding your dog less, gradually switch him or her to a lower-calorie food recommended by your veterinarian. The change should be gradual; a sudden switch could upset your dog’s stomach. 

Combine the new food with your dog’s usual food in larger and larger proportions over several weeks until you are only providing the new food. Give treats only on special occasions, such as birthdays, holidays, or good visits to the veterinarian. Offer low-calorie treats and limit or eliminate fattening ones. 

Exercise 

You can help your dog become more active and lose weight by scheduling regular play times and walks. Consult your veterinarian before beginning an exercise program for your dog. Not all games/exercise are appropriate for all breeds or medical conditions. For walks, start out slowly to give your dog a chance to adapt to an exercise routine. Work up to a brisk 10- to 20-minute walk or jog once or twice a day. On hot or cold days, go easy or rest. If you don’t have time to walk your dog, hire a dog walker. Doggy day care centers can also help ensure that your dog gets plenty of exercise throughout the day. Here are some calorie-burning activities for your dog: 

· Fetch 

· Keep away 

· Playing with other pets 

· Walking or jogging 

· Running off leash in a restricted area 

· Swimming (great for arthritic dogs) 

· Tricks for low-calorie treats 

· Tug of war 

SOURCE: https://www.aaha.org/pet_owner/pet_health_library/dog_care/diseases_conditions/obesity.aspx

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

Back to School Separation Anxiety

With all the excitement of the kids going back to school, many families may not think about what it means to the dog or cat. What you may notice are changes in behavior, a sad dog or cat, who mopes around or sleeps a lot more. Or your dog may suddenly started chewing things he shouldn't, or your cat does a lot more meowing. And you may not even connect the unusual cat or dog behavior with back-to-school time. Dogs and cats love routine, it makes them feel secure. They like knowing that certain things happen at about the same time each day, and they know where they want to be when it happens. If the kids have been around all summer, playing outside with the dog, or giving kitty extra love and snuggles, and suddenly they’re gone all day, it's upsetting. For some pets, they just feel sad and confused, and others feel real separation anxiety and may act up. 

 Kids can help your pet through the back-to-school blues The first thing to note is that this is a family matter, and a good opportunity for the kids to take more responsibility for the care of their pets. Let your kids know that their dog or cat is going to miss them when they're gone all day, and discuss what they can do to help their pets through it. One of the best ways for a pet to get over the loss of one routine is to replace it with another. Your pet may be sad all day at first, but if he knows that at 3:45 your kids will be home from school and will actively play with him soon after each day, your pet has something new to look forward to. If your child has a set time to do homework or read, that's an excellent time for the dog or cat to curl up next to her and "help" with studying. Ask your kids to think of other ways to include their pets in their routines. 

More than just sad, it’s separation anxiety If your pet exhibits true separation anxiety, as in, he goes crazy when he sees your kids put on their backpacks to leave for school, or is destructive when everyone is gone, you'll have to do some gentle training to ease his stress. Your kids may feel sorry for their pet and do a long sad goodbye. This only reinforces your pet’s fears and builds up the anxiety. It’s better to make the goodbye upbeat and brief, or eliminate it completely. Depending on your pet, he may respond well to a goodbye petting, a little goodbye treat, or simply leaving with a cheerful "good boy!" as your kids go out the door. This should happen before your pet gets upset. If your pet is freaking out, absolutely do not reward with anything. If you can't get your pet to calm down if it’s a dog, a simple "sit!" command may help. Then reward with petting and telling him he's ok once he’s calm. If your pet gets upset just by the backpacks or car keys being picked up, pick those items up and walk around the house with them several times a day, but don't leave. Your pet will learn not to associate those items with the pending doom of your kids leaving.

When back-to-school means an empty house If everyone is gone all day, both parents included, your pets are going to be bored on top of being upset. It's important to leave them some interactive toys to help them pass the time. Eventually, they will get used to the new reality, and will likely sleep most of the day. You can balance the boredom by providing vigorous exercise each day when you or your kids are home. Remember, you and your kids may have had a very busy day, but your pet has done virtually nothing, unless there is evidence to the contrary, as in a shredded or chewed up sofa. Providing your dog or cat active, vigorous play each day will help them burn up their pent up energy. Take your dog for a run or go outside and throw a ball or flying disk. For your cat, run around the house with a little toy on the end of a string. You may also want to consider getting your pet a little buddy to keep him company when no one is home. Even an aloof adult cat is likely to accept a kitten into her life, and the kitten will entice the older cat to play. And dogs, being true social animals, nearly always accept another dog to play with. Remember, your pets can get nervous, upset, anxious or lonely just like people, only they don't have the benefit of knowing that you’ll be back when you leave. It's up to you and your kids to make your pets feel secure in ways they understand. 

Source: http://www.petcentric.com/08-24-2009/your-pets-view-of-kids-going-back-to-school

The First Annual Canine Assisted Therapy, Inc 'Comedy Night Show' Benefit Event

Mark your calendars for the Canine Assisted Therapy, Inc's benefit Comedy Night Show, starring Angel, "Chi Chi" Salazar, this Saturday, August 9th, at the Jokers Wild Comedy Club and Bar at Coral Springs Country Club 10800 W. Sample Rd., Coral Springs, FL., from 8 pm until 10 pm. 

Canine Assisted Therapy, Inc. (“C.A.T.”) is a non-profit organization that is not subsidized by government funding. Founded in 2009, C.A.T. is dedicated to providing pet therapy to children and adults who have developmental and physical challenges as well as those who desire comfort and companionship of a loving pet.  C.A.T. improves people’s lives physically, mentally and emotionally.

 Bring all of your friends and family and support our local Canine Assisted Therapy Dogs, while enjoying a great night full of laughter! All proceeds will be benefiting Canine Assisted Therapy, Inc!

Source: http://www.catdogs.org/

Car Sickness In Pets

Does your dog throw up in the car when you go for rides? He may be experiencing typical motion sickness, just like some people do. Motion sickness usually begins very shortly after starting the car ride. The dog will begin to drool and then vomit. It’s not serious, but certainly not something that we like to clean up! 

To solve the problem, first try acclimating the dog to car rides. Do this by simply putting him in the car for a few minutes each day without going anywhere. Then try just going down the driveway and back, and the next day going around the block. Gradually build up the distance and time the dog rides in the car. 

Sometimes this will help to decrease the dog’s anxiety over riding in the car and may help to decrease vomiting. If that doesn't work, there are some over-the-counter medications you can try. The medication will need to be given about an hour before the car ride. Ask your veterinarian for a recommendation as to what drug to try and the dosage for your pet.

(Never give any medications to your pet without your veterinarian’s advice!) These drugs are safe, with drowsiness usually the only major side effect. But since your dog isn't driving the car, that shouldn't be a problem! If over-the-counter drugs don’t work, your veterinarian may be able to suggest another method for curing the car sickness.

Source: http://www.aaha.org/pet_owner/pet_health_library/dog_care/general_health/car_sickness.aspx

June-Patient of the Month-Smokey!!!!

Smokey, a 4year old, Shih Tzu mix was first brought to the HAH for hind limb paralysis.  A resident of the Bahamas, Smokey was diagnosed and treated for neurological deficits with consideration of intervertebral disk disease (IVDD). After being “down” for 12 days, his primary Veterinarian referred him to the HAH for evaluation and possible spinal surgery.  His limping had turned into immobility over a period of one week and the possibility of surgery was real.

Dr. Bibevski, examined Smokey upon arrival. He had minimal sensation in his toes, and was unable to walk. IVDD was probable.

IVDD is a common disease seen in small dogs. The jump from a limping pet to a pet that is completely unable to walk can occur quickly and the compressed spinal cord can cause irreversable damage.

CT scan showing disc compression on the right side.

A Cat Scan was scheduled and performed at the Animal Cancer Care Center for Smokey.  The scan showed two lesions compressing the spine. The more significant of the two lesions was a herniated intervertebral disc that compressed approximately 80% of the spinal cord. IVDD was confirmed and "decompression" surgery was scheduled.

This “decompression” surgery is very delicate and brings no guarantees that when the pressure on the spinal cord is released that the spine will return to its normal function.

During this delicate procedure, Dr. Bibevski removed the herniated disc material. After surgery, Smokey was comfortably maintained to eliminate the possibility that he may further injure his spine. His recovery was very smooth.

Intra-operative photo showing the herniated disk compressing on the spinal cord.

Within one day of surgery, physical rehabilitation therapy began. By day #3  “evidence of independent motor function” was seen. Smokey was on the mend and scheduled for discharge that day.

"I am so grateful to Dr. Bibevski and her team for helping our Smokey. It was a very scary and nerve wrecking experience and thankfully for their great expertise at Hollywood Animal Hospital there was a favorable outcome. His recovery has been nothing short of amazing"

At home, in the care of his owner, Smokey has steadily regained his strength. Today,  he is walking with only a slight indication of any prior injury.

We have cared for many patience with IVDD at the HAH and success stories like this are a testiment not only quality medical care but also to the diligent attention and care of our owner. Smokey was set up for success with his family in his corner. We are very proud to be a part of his medical team and to honor him as our June Patient of the Month!!!

Below are videos of Smokey's home recovery from his initial "sling" walking to near normal cantor.