Did you know that you can brush the teeth of your dog or cat? In fact, this is something all dog and cat owners should do. Otherwise, harmful bacteria can develop on top of their teeth and cause major health issues. Daily brushings can keep plaque and tartar on the teeth at bay.
Guinea pigs are strict herbivores who need a lot of fiber in their diet to stay healthy. Hay is the best source of fiber. Alfalfa hay is good for young guinea pigs, but older guinea pigs should be switched to timothy hay to avoid weight gain.
Monthly flea and heartworm medication is standard for dogs, however were you aware that cats can get heartworms and fleas as well? Many people think if their cats are only indoors they can’t get them, but some still do.
Taking the cat to the vet can be just as hard on their owners as it is on the patient. To smooth things along, try to get the cat used to the carrier way before any vet trip. Bringing favorite treats and talking calmly can help soothe a nervous traveler, too.
Jeff Waters
September 20 at 7:14 PM ·
My dad lost an English Setter on Sunday September 20 near Reynolds Creek canyon near the end of the pavement, and hasn’t found him yet. His collar has a brass plate riveted to it with contact info. Please keep an eye out for him if you’re out that way CONTACT: Call 208-467-4607 it is a landline or text/call 208-204-4905. UPDATE: we are still looking for him in the area and have put up cameras with bait but still have not seen him. If someone has him or has seen him with someone there is a REWARD.
Remember that lawn fertilizers are extremely toxic to pets. Be sure to store them in a place where your animals can’t get into them, and keep your pet off the lawn for the recommended time frame after any fertilizers or treatments have been applied.
Cat’s eyesight is believed to be both better and worse than humans. It is considered better because cats have a wider peripheral field of vision. However, cats have trouble seeing color as well as humans do. Scientists believe that grass appears red to cats.
Jennifer and Mikayla getting in on some puppy loves during a vaccine appointment. We can't wait to see these little guys back here in a few weeks.
Did you know that dogs and humans have the same type of slow wave sleep, rapid eye movement and that during this REM stage dogs can dream? The twitching and paw movements that occur during their sleep are signs that your pet is dreaming.
Lastly, we are celebrating two more wonderful team members, Jennifer and Aspen! Jennifer has been with us since 2013 and Aspen came aboard just early this summer of 2020. Both of these ladies know what makes them proud to be a vet tech. Jennifer stated, "that besides getting to enjoy working with my animal patients', I am proud to be the second wave of communication between the doctor and the client. I like being able to assist my doctor and provide secondary aid." What makes Aspen proud is seeing the excitement of her patients when their owners come to pick them up. As well as seeing her work space so clean, neat, and tidy! Thank you so much for all your hard work. You are so valuable to our team!
Today we are spotlighting Niki and Mikayla. Niki has been at our hospital since 2012 and Mikayla joined our team just earlier this year. "What makes you proud to be a vet tech", Niki is proud "to be able to be a care provider for an integral part of your family by providing them with the care that they deserve and need." Mikayla is proud "to be able to build her client-patient relationships within our hospital and care for our sick and injured patients." Thank you Niki and Mikayla we are proud to have you apart of our team.
Halfway through tech week and we have two more amazing technicians to introduce you to today, Morgan and Jamie. Morgan came to our hospital in 2018 and Jamie joined in early 2019. Morgan is proud to be a vet tech because “gets the chance to help and save animals lives. There is nothing more rewarding than that.” Jamie is proud because “I am able to see the animals that we have worked so hard to nurse back to good health get to go home with their family happy and healthy.” We couldn’t agree more with you two; thank you for all you do for our patients and clients!
Persistent bad breath, sensitivity around the mouth, bleeding, tartar, loose or missing teeth, and difficulty eating or chewing food are all signs of gum disease and dental problems. If your pet is experiencing any of these symptoms, contact your vet immediately.
A common question people ask veterinarians is what kind of food they should be feeding their pets for optimum health. You should start with specially formulated puppy or kitten food for the first year, and then switch to a good-quality brand of wet or dry food. Your vet will recommend food for any special dietary requirements.
Cats are typically more active at night, and because of this they have more advanced night vision than we do. Cats need only one-sixth of the light level to see than humans require.
Do you have your cat on a dental diet? You should be feeding your cat at least some dry kibble as part of his or her diet. Dry foods are abrasive and help keep the teeth clean and sharp. Many cats do best with a diet primarily of canned food, so discuss your food choices with your vet.
According to the BBC, the oldest parrot on record is a Blue and Gold Macaw named Charlie. Charlie is reported to have been owned by Winston Churchill, and is believed to be over 105 years old.
Donna Austin
Yesterday at 8:01 AM ·
My daughter opened my door this morning and my dogs bolted out. Sadly I found my boy hit by a car but I am still looking for my pit mix. Her name is Charlie. She is terrified of everything and is unlikely to go to anyone. If you see her please call or text me at 2087241626
Are you concerned that something may be wrong with your dog or cat because of the unusual behavior they’ve been exhibiting lately? While it could be nothing more than a personality quirk you’ve never noticed before, it may be worth it to bring them in for a checkup all the same.
Dr. Ludwig has a bonded pair of bottle fed kittens she has been fostering that she is looking for a loving home for. She would really like them to go together if possible and be kept indoors. They are 8 week old male kittens that are full of fun and energy. If interested, please give our office a call. Thank you!
The risk of your new puppy getting parvovirus is a great reason to visit us. This extremely contagious virus attacks the animal's white blood cells and can be fatal. A vaccination program at an early age is the best protection.
It’s important to remember that getting a diagnosis of endocrine disorder or diabetes in your pet doesn’t have to be a devastating blow. Thanks to advances in veterinary medicine, it’s often possible to help manage the condition in your pet so that they can continue to have an active life.
