June 2010 Newsletter

Lone Mountain Animal Hospital
June 2010 Newsletter

Ask the Vet- Common Summer Pet Questions

Is it dangerous for my dog to drink from the pool?
The dilution of chemicals such as chlorine, bromine, and even salt are in very low dilutions that will not pose a risk to your pet if ingested. However, pets should not be allowed to swim in or drink from pools that just had a chemical shock treatment. And all concentrated pool chemicals can pose a danger and should be kept far out of pets reach.

Should I shave my dog during the summer to keep him cool?
Some dogs with very dense hair coats can benefit from a full body shave to help keep cool during the summer. But many pets will do better to skip the shave and thin out the hair coat with either a professional grooming, or home grooming using a rake style brush or Furminator. And remember if you do shave your dog, the protective barrier of the hair coat is decreased and your dog may be at risk for sun burn.

Can’t I just cool my overheated pet with ice if I suspect heat stroke?
The answer is NO! A pet with heat stroke may have symptoms of excessive panting, anxiety, weakness, or collapse. Heat stroke can be life threatening and you should see the veterinarian immediately. You can start some home treatment by gradual cooling methods. Take your pet to a cooler environment and apply cool wet towels to the pet especially in the underbelly area. Ice should not be used since it causes blood vessels in the skin to vasoconstrict (get smaller)- this will actually make it harder for your pet too cool down.

Pet of the Month
She’s small but with a mighty wagging tail…meet “Muffin,” our July 2010 Pet of the Month. See her photo at www.lmah.net

Vetsulin Alert
The commonly used veterinary insulin, Vetsulin, is no longer available through regular channels. This means most diabetic pets will need to be transitioned to another insulin product. If you have a diabetic pet, you will be receive both a letter and a call from our veterinarians advising you on how to manage your pet’s diabetes. If you have not yet been in touch with one of our veterinarians, please call 702-645-3116.

Pet Portal
LMAH now offers Pet Portals to our clients. You will be able to check and print out your pets vaccine records, add pet photo’s order most medications online, find articles about pet care, training and much more. To sign up simply make sure a LMAH staff member updates your email address on your account.