April 2007 Newsletter

Lone Mountain Animal Hospital
April 2007 Newsletter

Pet of the Month
Please welcome "Rio," our May 2007 Pet of the Month. She is a gorgeous Rottweiler mix who was originally rescued from a shelter.

Pet Food Recall Update
The FDA is currently looking at both melamine contaminated wheat gluten and rice protein concentrate originating from China. The investigation is ongoing as they research how the ingredients became contaminated. Although many brands of pet food have been involved in the recall the actual number of diets affected accounts for less than 1% of all pet diets on the market. For the latest on the recall, log on to our website or visit the FDA website (www.fda.gov).

Safe Hiking With Your Dog
It's a great time of year to enjoy a hike at Red Rock or Mount Charleston. Like so many dog owners, you may want to take your canine friend along. But before you head out on the trailhead, take a moment to consider potential hazards and necessary precautions for any dog owner.

Footpad burns are very commonly seen injuries from hiking and occurs when the combination of vigorous activity is combined with hot walking surfaces, rocks or pavement. Rattlesnake bites are an unfortunate risk when hiking in the desert, especially in the spring months when snakes are out and about. Dogs that get just too close to cactus can suffer from a cactus injury to the face, eyes, and paws. Heat stroke is always a risk in Las Vegas throughout the spring, summer and fall months and not just when the temperatures are in the triple digits. Dogs that are hiking or exercising can suffer heatstroke even in moderate temperatures. Remember that dogs may overheat before we do, because they must rely on panting to cool themselves.

The health threats that many pet owners do not consider are some of the smallest in physical size. Hiking and camping exposes our pets to a greater range of parasites that they might not encounter in their home environment. Ticks and fleas may be encountered especially as dogs venture into wildlife environments. Protecting your dog with a flea/tick product is a good idea before spending time outdoors. And because mosquitoes and heartworm disease are of greater concern these days, it would be wise to have your dog on heartworm preventative. Water found in ponds or streams may contain Giardia, a microscopic parasite that causes gastrointestinal illness to both animals and people.

Hiking Precautions:

1. Carefully decide on taking your dog.
Not all dogs are well-suited for hiking activities. Very young, elderly pets, some short-faced breeds, and those with health conditions may not cope well with hiking.

2. Monitor exercise intensity
Start with short hikes and build up on distances on later hikes. Monitor for signs of overheating, such as panting excessively, anxiousness, and feeling hot to the touch.

3. Carry ample water.

4. Keep your dog on a leash or under close supervision.

5. Ask your veterinarian about special measures for outdoor activities.