June 2009 Newsletter

Lone Mountain Animal Hospital
June 2009 Newsletter

A Pet Safe 4th of July
The 4th of July holiday is truly one of the least “pet friendly” holidays- the noise of the fireworks can cause some pets suffer with fear, anxiety, and even destructive behaviors. So before you get caught up in holiday barbeques- plan ahead to take some quick steps to keep your pet safe and sound this holiday.

Ensure Your Pet ID
This is a good time to make sure your pet has both a microchip ID and a collar with tags. Nobody ever thinks their pet might run away, but the 4th of July is a time when frightened pets may jump fences or run away.

Keep Pets Indoors
We may love the sights and sounds of the holiday, but most dogs absolutely do not. Avoid taking your dog to parades or firework displays to spare the anxiety and decrease risk of heat stroke during the high summer heat.

Provide a Quiet Room
Keep your pet in a quiet room and close curtains or drapes. Turn on music or television.
A favorite toy or treats serve as a welcome distraction.

Try Natural Remedies
Melatonin and pheromones are non-medication remedies to help pets calm an anxious pet. Pheromones are natural scent hormones that are useful with phobias, anxiety, training, and inter-pet issues. Pheromones are available in plug-ins, collars, and environmental sprays.

Consider Tranquilizers
Medication isn’t necessary for every pet, but can help pets with severe anxieties cope with the holiday. There are several medications that can be used to help with both short term anxiety and chronic anxiety conditions. And remember that tranquilizers work more effectively if given before the “boom” of fireworks start. So call your veterinarian BEFORE the holiday if you want to discuss sedatives for your pet.

Holiday Hours
Friday, July 3rd 7am-7pm
Saturday, July 4th 8am-1pm
Sunday, July 5th 8am-1pm

Pet of the Month
Congratulations to our July Pet of the Month! Milla is a loveable rat that will win your heart, even if you didn’t think you liked rats. Visit our website and read more about her story at www.lmah.net

A Sad Goodbye
We say a sad goodbye to one of our great doctors, Dr. Brian McLaughlin who moved out of the Las Vegas area. Dr. McLaughlin has been with us many years and we are sorry to see him go. We wish him and his family the best with their move! Regular clients of Dr. McLaughlin should feel comfortable that he has apprised our other veterinarians about his patients and transferred their care to very capable, caring hands.