The contents of this page will help you refresh your memory to the dangers to your pet during this time of year, introduce you to new products, and inform you of specials and other bits of information that we think may be helpful and keep your pet healthy and happy.

* Below you will find information on the five plants most hazardous to your pets health. Before you begin planting, read up on these toxic plants to ensure a safe environment for your pets........(if you are interested, find more comprehensive information regarding toxins and poisonings on our "Library" pages).

Another Threat to your Pets

As you may have heard, there is a new threat to our dogs - The FDA is warning that there is a potential link between an onset of illness in dogs, and jerky treat products widely available to consumers. 

The treats are described as chicken tenders, chicken strips or treats.  The AVMA has learned that all complaints of illness have involved jerky treats from China. The FDA is currently testing these treats, but have yet to identify the contaminant.

Symptoms of the illness believed to be associated with these treats may include vomiting, diarrhea-sometimes with blood, decreased appetite, increased water consumption and lethargy. 

Although most dogs have recovered from their acute onset of illness, there have been some reports to the FDA involving dogs that have died.

For more information, including signs of illness being observed, see the FDA statement at http://www.fda.gov/cvm/CVM_Updates/Chknjerky.htm.

 We have worked very hard with our drug manufacturers and suppliers to bring you the most competative pricing possible on the following products; 

 Frontline, Advantage, Heartguard, Program and, Sentinel,  and  an additional 10 % off if purchasing a one year supply. 

All of our medications come with the full manufacturers guarantee (not available when purchased from pet stores or on-line), as well as your assurance that the medications you purchase from your veterinarian are safe and effective, with the most up to date expiration dates and the best price possible. 

You can call ahead-858-453-6312, send your request by fax-858-453-8312, or email your request for refills to; gacoffice@excite.com.

Also save when you purchase your pets pain/anti-inflammatory medications in these sizes/amounts;  Rimadyl Chewables in the #180 count size, Metacam 100ml, and Deramaxx #90 count size.

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Our task must be to free ourselves....by widening our circle of compassion to embrace all living creatures and the whole of nature and its beauty.

Albert Einstein

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Teaching a child not to step on a caterpillar is as valuable to the child as it is to the caterpillar

Bradley Miller

Pets Said to Outnumber People in U.S.

Pets outnumber people in the United States by 60 million, according to an article published by CNN.comon March 14, 2006. The article quotes dollar investments in pets – which totaled $36.3 billion in 2005, and the types of pampering services that have become more popular, such as massage.

Some thoughts from "Dr.Dog".........................(printed with permission)

Outside Dogs
by Dennis Fetko, Ph.D.

Unless you're medically intolerant of the dog (and therefore can't take care of him in
a medical emergency, so you shouldn't have the dog anyway),making a dog stay
outside is a costly waste.
If he's for protection, what do you think I want to steal - your lawn?
When you leave, do you put your valuables and your kids out in your yard? Just what is the dog protecting out there?
Most dogs kept outside cause far more nuisance complaints from barking and escaping than any deterrent to intrusion.
Such complaints cause teasing, antagonism, release and poisoning. With your dog a helpless victim, it's no laughing matter.
If I'm a crook and your dog is out, your fence protects ME, not your possessions or your dog. If I just open the gate, 9 out of 10 dogs will run off! I can safely shoot, stab, spear, poison, snare, strangle them, or dart through the fence and you just lost your dog AND everything I steal!

If he's tied up and I keep out of reach, he's useless. He'll bark, but outside dogs bark so much, they're usually ignored.
But let a dog hit the other side of a door or window I'm breaking into, and I'm GONE! I can't hurt the dog until he can hurt me, and nothing you own is worth my arm. Deterrence is effective protection.
Protection and aggression are not the same. Protection is defensive, reactive, often passive, and threatens or injures no one.
Aggression is active, harmful and offensive, threatens all and benefits none. Yard dogs often develop far more aggression than protectivity because everyone who passes by or enters has already violated the territory that dog has marked dozens of times a day for years. That's not protection, it's not desirable and it overlooks two facts of life today:

First, property owners have implied social contracts with others in the community. Letter carriers, paper boys, delivery people, law enforcement, emergency medical personnel, meter readers and others are allowed near and at times on your property without your specific permission.
And sure that ten-year-old was not supposed to jump your fence after his Frisbee; but neither you nor your dog are allowed to cause him injury if he does. Imagine this: A neighbor looks into your yard or window and sees you, your wife or child laying on the floor in a pool of blood. They call 9-1-1 and your dog prevents paramedics from assisting!
Should they shoot your dog or just let you die?

Great choice.

Second, even if the intruder is a criminal, few places allow you or your dog to cause physical injury to prevent property loss.
Convicted felons have sued the dog's owner from jail and won more in the suit than they ever could have stolen! Appalling? True.

And don't be foolish enough to believe your homeowner's insurance will cover the loss. Now you see why many feel that an outside dog is a no-brainer.

The more a dog is outdoors, the less behavioral control you have. It's easier to solve four or five indoor problems than one outdoor problem.
The reason is valid and simple: The more you control the stimuli that reaches your dog, the more you control the responses.
You've got a lot more control over your living room than you do over your entire county! When your dog is bored, but teased by every dog, cat, bird, squirrel, motorcycle, paperboy, airplane, firecracker and backfiring truck in the county, OF COURSE he'll dig, chew, and bark.

Would you sit still all day everyday? Do you want unnecessary medical and parasite fees, especially as the dog ages?

When a dog is alone indoors, you are still 30% there because your scent and things he associates with you, constantly remind the dog of you and your training.
When he's out, your dog is alone whether you're home or not. Do you really expect him to keep YOU in mind while the entire world teases, distracts and stimulates him?

The media is full of stories about the family dog saving everyone's life during a fire.
How many people, including children, would be dead today if those dogs were kept outside?
SURE - you ALWAYS get up to investigate every time your yard dog barks.
And I've got this bridge.

An outdoor dog has an address, not a home.

Dogs offer real value as companion animals.

Stop behavior problems and start enjoying real protection and companionship.

Bring your dogs inside.

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Some Facts About Chaining or Tethering Dogs
The Humane Society of the United States

 What is meant by "chaining" or "tethering" dogs?
These terms refer to the practice of fastening a dog to a stationary object or stake, usually in the owner's backyard, as a means of keeping the animal under control.
These terms do not refer to the periods when an animal is walked on a leash.

 Is there a problem with continuous chaining or tethering?
Yes, the practice is both inhumane and a threat to the safety of the confined dog, other animals, and humans.

 Why is tethering dogs inhumane?
Dogs are naturally social beings who thrive on interaction with human beings and other animals.
A dog kept chained in one spot for hours, days, months, or even years suffers immense psychological damage.
An otherwise friendly and docile dog, when kept continuously chained, becomes neurotic, unhappy, anxious, and often aggressive.
In many cases, the necks of chained dogs become raw and covered with sores, the result of improperly fitted collars and
the dogs' constant yanking and straining to escape confinement. Dogs have even been found with collars embedded in their necks,
the result of years of neglect at the end of a chain. 

 Who says tethering dogs is inhumane?
In addition to The Humane Society of the United States and numerous animal experts, the U. S. Department of Agriculture (USDA)
issued a statement in the July 2, 1996, Federal Register against tethering:
"Our experience in enforcing the Animal Welfare Act has led us to conclude that continuous confinement of dogs by a tether is inhumane. A tether significantly restricts a dog's movement.
A tether can also become tangled around or hooked on the dog's shelter structure or other objects, further restricting the dog's movement and potentially causing injury."

 How does tethering or chaining dogs pose a danger to humans?
Dogs tethered for long periods can become highly aggressive. Dogs feel naturally protective of their territory;
when confronted with a perceived threat, they respond according
to their fight-or-flight instinct.
A chained dog, unable to take flight, often feels forced to fight, attacking any unfamiliar animal or person who unwittingly wanders into his or her territory.
Numerous attacks on people by tethered dogs have been documented.
For example, a study published in the September 15, 2000, issue of the Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association
reported that 17% of dogs involved in fatal attacks on humans between 1979 and 1998 were restrained on their owners' property
at the time of the attack. Tragically, the victims of such attacks are often children who are unaware of the chained dog's presence
until it is too late. Furthermore, a tethered dog who finally does get loose from his chains may remain aggressive, and is likely
to chase and attack unsuspecting passersby and pets.

 Why is tethering dangerous to dogs?
In addition to the psychological damage wrought by continuous chaining, dogs forced to live on a chain make easy targets for other animals, humans, and biting insects.
A chained animal may suffer harassment and teasing
from insensitive humans, stinging bites from insects, and, in the worst cases, attacks by other animals.
Chained dogs are also easy targets for thieves looking to steal animals for sale to research institutions or to be used as training fodder
for organized animal fights.
Finally, dogs' tethers can become entangled with other objects, which can choke or strangle the dogs to death.

 Are tethered dogs otherwise treated well?
Rarely does a chained or tethered dog receive sufficient care. Tethered dogs suffer from sporadic feedings, overturned water bowls,
inadequate veterinary care, and extreme temperatures.
During periods of extreme heat, they may not receive adequate water or protection from the sun. What's more, because their often
neurotic behavior makes them difficult to approach, chained dogs are rarely given even minimal affection.
Tethered dogs may become "part of the scenery" and can be easily ignored by their owners.
The HSUS recommends that all dogs be kept indoors at night, taken on regular walks, and otherwise provided with adequate attention, food, water, and veterinary care.
If an animal must be housed outside at certain times, he should be placed in a suitable pen with adequate square footage and shelter from the elements.

 Should chaining or tethering ever be allowed?
To become well-adjusted companion animals, dogs should interact regularly with people and other animals, and should receive regular exercise.
It is an owner's responsibility to properly restrain her dog, just as it is the owner's responsibility to provide adequate attention and
socialization. Placing an animal on a restraint to get fresh air can be acceptable if it is done for a short period. However, keeping an
animal tethered for long periods is never acceptable.

 What about attaching a dog's leash to a "pulley run"?
Attaching a dog's leash to a long line—such as a clothesline or a manufactured device known as a pulley run—and letting the animal have a larger area in which to explore is preferable to tethering the dog to a stationary object.
However, many of the same problems associated with tethering
still apply, including attacks on or by other animals, lack of socialization, and safety.

 What can be done to correct the problem of tethering dogs?
At least 25 communities have passed laws that regulate the practice of tethering animals.
Maumelle, Arkansas; Tucson, Arizona; and New Hanover, North Carolina, are a few communities that prohibit the chaining or tethering of dogs
as a means of continuous confinement. Many other communities
allow tethering only under certain conditions.

 Why should a community outlaw the continuous chaining or tethering of dogs?
Animal control and humane agencies receive countless calls every day from citizens concerned about animals in these cruel situations.
Animal control officers, paid at taxpayer expense, spend many hours trying to educate pet owners about the dangers and cruelty involved in this practice.
A chained animal is caught in a vicious cycle; frustrated by long periods of boredom and social isolation, he becomes a neurotic shell of his former self—further deterring human interaction and kindness.
In the end, the helpless dog can only suffer the frustration of
watching the world go by in isolation—a cruel fate for what is by nature a highly social animal.
Any city, county, or state that bans this practice is a safer, more humane community.

The beautiful and fragrant Stargazer lily                                     Sago Palm

THE FIVE PLANTS MOST HAZARDOUS TO YOUR PET’S HEALTH

 ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center (APCC) is educating owners about the five plants most potentially dangerous to pets. “We typically recommend that pets not be allowed to eat plants in general,” says APCC veterinary toxicologist Dr. Safdar Khan. “However, it is especially critical that the following plants be kept out of reach of animals, as they have the potential to cause serious, even fatal systemic effects when ingested."

* LILIES rank number one in dangerous plant call volume at the APCC, and are highly toxic to cats. Easter Lilies and other forms of the lily family can cause kidney failure in cats. Unfortunately, all parts of the lily plant are considered toxic to cats and can be life-threatening, even in small doses.
If your pet does eat lily plant material, within a few hours it may vomit, become lethargic or develop a lack of appetite. Because these signs continue and worsen as kidney damage progresses, it's important for owners to contact their veterinarian promptly. Luckily, animals that receive quick, aggressive care have a good chance of making a full recovery.
Online materials, including photos of dangerous lilies, are available at www.apcc.aspca.org.

* AZALEAS, indigenous to many eastern and western states and commonly used in landscaping, contain substances that can produce vomiting, drooling, diarrhea, weakness, and central nervous system depression. Severe cases could lead to death from cardiovascular collapse.

* Frequently used as an ornamental plant, OLEANDER contains toxic components that can cause irritation of the gastrointestinal tract, hypothermia, and potentially severe cardiac problems.

* Also a popular ornamental plant, SAGO PALM can potentially produce vomiting, diarrhea, depression, seizures, liver failure, and even death. One pit bull terrier in Florida became ill and subsequently died from liver failure after chewing on the leaves and base of a sago palm in his yard.

* Although all parts of the CASTOR BEAN plant are dangerous, the seeds contain the highest concentration of toxins. Ingestion can produce significant abdominal pain, vomiting, diarrhea, and weakness; in severe cases, dehydration, tremors, seizures, and even death could result.

For more on these dangerous plants, please visit ASPCA online. If you suspect that your pet may have consumed one of these—or any other potentially toxic substance—please contact your veterinarian or the APCC’s 24-hour hotline at (888) 426-4435.

Also very toxic to your pet;

Chocolate is toxic to your dogs, so keep candy up and out of the reach of your pets.  Depending on the form involved, chocolate can contain high amounts of fat and caffeine-like substances known as methylxanthines.  If ingested in significant amounts, chocolate can potentially produce symptoms ranging from vomiting and diarrhea to panting, excessive thirst and urination, hyperactivity, abnormal heart rhythm, tremors, seizures and even death in severe cases.

Typically, the darker the chocolate, the higher the potential for  problems from poisoning.  White chocolate has the lowest methylxanthine content, while baking chocolate contains the highest.  As little as 20 ounces of milk chocolate, or only two ounces of baking chocolate can cause serious problems in a 10-pound dog.  While white chocolate may not have the same potential as darker forms to cause a methylxanthine poisoning, the high fat content of lighter chocolates could still lead to vomiting and diarrhea, as well as the possible development of life-threatening pancreatitis, an inflammatory condition of the pancreas.

If you suspect that your pet may have ingested a product or substance containing chocolate, contact us for immediate assistance. 

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The Story of Greyfriars Bobby

In 1858, a man named John Gray was buried in old Greyfriars Churchyard. His grave levelled by the hand of time, and unmarked by any stone, became scarcely discernible; but, although no human interest seemed to attach to it.

The sacred spot was not wholly disregarded or forgotten. For fourteen years the dead man's faithful dog kept constant watch and guard over the grave until his own death in 1872.

The famous Skye Terrier, Greyfriars Bobby was so devoted to his master John Gray, even in death, for fourteen years Bobby lay on the grave only leaving for food.

It is reported that a daily occurance of people from all walks of life would stand at the entrance of the Kirkyard waiting for the one o'clock gun and the appearance of Bobby leaving the grave for his midday meal.

What are Heartworms and how do dogs get them?

Whether your pet spends lots of time in the great outdoors or rarely ventures out of your own back yard, it's still at risk for exposure to deadly heartworm disease. Heartworms are a nationally-recognized threat to both adult dogs and puppies; fortunately, prevention of heartworm disease is 100% preventable with HEARTGARD® Plus. Heartworms are parasites that live in the hearts and lungs of infected dogs and puppies. The resulting heartworm disease can cause serious health problems and can eventually lead to heart failure and death. Heartworm disease has been found in all 50 states in the U.S. One reason for the prevalence of these worms in puppies and dogs is that we live in a mobile society - people and their pets travel from place to place, unknowingly taking parasites along for the ride. Thankfully, there's HEARTGARD Plus. When used as directed, HEARTGARD Plus is 100% effective in preventing heartworms. The transmission cycle of the heartworm begins when a mosquito bites an infected dog and feeds on blood that contains tiny immature heartworms. As it feeds, the mosquito takes in the immature heartworms. During the next two to three weeks, these tiny worms develop into larvae (the infective stage of heartworms) within the mosquito. If the infected mosquito bites another dog or puppy, it can transmit infective larvae to that healthy animal. But, if the dog or puppy is protected with HEARTGARD Plus, the lifecycle ends here. HEARTGARD Plus protects against heartworms in puppies and dogs. Without proper dog and puppy care that includes a heartworm preventive, the heartworm lifecycle may continue. Infective larvae enter the dog's body through the mosquito bite, and they continue to develop over the next few months. They migrate through the dog's tissues, eventually reaching the heart and lungs. Once in the dog's heart, the worms may grow to between 7 and 11 inches in length and can cause significant damage to the heart and lungs. If left untreated, heartworm disease may result in death. The life cycle of the heartworm is approximately 6 months.

         Capone, Brando and Carlida get a tasty Heartgard chewable once a month for heartworm protection

The one absolutely unselfish friend that man can have in this selfish world, the one that never deserts him, the one that never proves ungrateful or treacherous.....is his dog.

When all other friends desert, he remains.

When riches take wings and reputation falls to pieces, he is as constant in his love as the sun in its journey through the heavens.

George Graham Vest                       

Spring & Summer Allergies

As new plants and flowers burst into life this spring, so  do the symptoms of allergies. But humans aren't the only ones who suffer. Blooming plants, grasses and flowers can trigger allergic reactions called atopy in dogs and cats.

The allergy is similar to hay fever that humans suffer. The animal reacts to inhaled particles such as mold, pollen, and dust, but instead of sneezing, pets typically have itchy skin and will persistently scratch, lick and bite to get relief.  If left untreated, dogs and cats with  allergies will scratch, bite and lick themselves constantly.  In an attempt to relieve themselves, dogs and cats often create sores that become secondary infections. If you suspect that your pet may be suffering from seasonal allergies, please visit your veterinarian.

Skin Diseases & Conditions in Pets

Dogs and cats suffer from many problems affecting their skin. It is important to understand that the skin is an organ, just as the liver and kidneys are organs. The skin functions as a barrier to protect the body from infection, caustic substances, ultra violet light and dehydration. Good health of the skin is dependent on the health and function of the other organs which make up our pets bodies. 

 The following are common diseases and conditions affecting the skin.

Allergies: Pets usually react to allergies by scratching, reacting to an allergen, which is a substance that causes sensitivity. Most allergens are inhaled, but a few are the contact type, such as an allergy to wool. Some allergens are found in food, most commonly corn, wheat, soy, beef, and dairy products. The first signs of allergic reactions are scratching, licking, biting, or rubbing the skin. This can lead to infection characterized by red bumps and pimples. Because of the discomfort, it is important to get professional help as soon as possible.

Bacterial Infection: A bacterial infection is common, but is usually secondary to another underlying disease such as an allergy. Treatment for bacterial infections may include antibiotics— either given orally or topically. It is important to seek professional help to treat the bacterial infection while searching for the underlying disease.

Hot Spots or Acute Moist Dermatitis: Hot spots are usually a result of self trauma and resulting infection that occurs as your pet tries to relieve itself from pain or itch. Treatment may include thorough cleaning, clipping the hair at the infected site, topical and systemic antibiotics, and anti- inflammatory agents.

Pyoderma: Pyodermas include a wide range of infections which result in the formation of pus. Pyodermas vary in severity. Treatment is similar to that for hot spots, but typically is longer term. Shampoos and rinses are also helpful.

Atopy or Allergic Inhalant Dermatitis: Atopy is a very itchy skin disease which is the result of allergies to microscopic particles in the air.  Treatment includes dietary supplements, antihistamines and steroids, and is often long term.

External parasites: include mites, fleas, and ticks.  The bites of these parasites  may lead to allergic conditions. Diagnosis is achieved by observation and microscopic examination of skin scrapings. Treatment depends on the parasites present and include strict flea control, shampoos and rinses.

Fungal Infections include Malassezia sp., Dermatophytosis (Ring Worm), and Dermal Coccidioidomycosis. Diagnosis is achieved by cultures, microscopic examination of skin scrapings and blood tests. Treatment includes topical and systemic antifungal drugs and antifungal shampoos and rinses.

Food allergies: Food allergies often manifest themselves as skin problems. Food allergies are usually diagnosed by ruling out other possible conditions. Treatment is trial feeding of hypoallergenic diets for a minimum of six weeks.

Secondary Skin Disease: Secondary skin diseases such as hypothyroidism are diagnosed by clinical testing for the underlying disease. Diagnosis often requires blood tests, biopsies, and X-rays. Treatment of the underlying condition usually results in improvement of the skin problems.

Your pet's skin problems very often combine two or more of the above diseases.

Fleas

The flea is a hardy insect with a lifespan of six to 12 months. During that time, a pair of fleas could produce millions of offspring.

 Fleas can cause reactions in your pet varying from a mild skin irritation to a severe allergic reaction. Because fleas feed on blood, an extreme infestation can cause anemia or even death in animals. All cats and dogs are susceptible to flea infestations, except for some that live in high elevations or in extremely dry environments.

Whether or not you actually see fleas on your pet, they may be there. Scratching, scabs and dark specs, or "flea dirt," found on the skin can all be signs that your pet has fleas. Fleas can carry tapeworms, too. If you notice small segments that look like white rice  in your pet's feces or in the hair around his anus, your pet probably has tapeworms, which means he may also have fleas. In extreme cases, an animal may be lethargic and its lips and gums pale.

The battle of the flea has been made much easier in the past few years with the ever-popular "spot-on" treatments such as Advantage and Frontline.     Be very careful to use the products as directed; some may be effective for dogs, but toxic to cats. Consult with your veterinarian before implementing any flea control program.

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