Taylor Vet's Blog

Pet of the Month - February 2012 - Chaos and Jinxx

2012-02-01T06:33:00.000-08:00

Chaos is a 9 year old German Shepard rescue dog. When he was adopted he was 5 1/2 months old and a mere 37 pounds. Chaos was seized from a residence where he was greatly neglected. He was being fostered by a gal from Animal Control. She knew the Pilchers were looking for a German Shepard, so she brought him down to the the Humane Society for them to meet him. They walked him around the back yard, and he decided this was his forever family by jumping on Dawn and smearing her white shirt with mud. That decided it! He has been a cherished addition to their family, but they felt he may like a younger canine friend. Jinxx is a purebread Siberian Husky they adopted from family in New Mexico, and in Jinxx, Chaos got more than a friend, he now has a little brother!

Chaos loves to chase tennis balls, although his arthritis gets the better of him sometimes. Jinxx also likes to chase balls, as well as play tug-of-war. He also loves to rip the squeakys out of his toys, then the squeaky keeps him busy for HOURS!!! But mostly they like to play together in the back yard.

Pet of the Month - January 2012 - Sophie Butters

2012-01-02T12:14:00.000-08:00

Lindsey heard through a friend that there was a little terrier mix puppy that was tied to a tree in Brooklyn, IA. Lindsey walked up to her and saw this sweet puppy was tiny, dirty, had tangled hair and overgrown nails, and had a tag on her that said “Free.” Lindsey has always had a soft spot for animals, even has volunteered at animal shelters, so she knew she had to bring this little girl back to Cedar Falls. She planned on trying to find a friend or family member to take her or possibly to bring her to the animal shelter. The first night in Cedar Falls “Sophie” went and sat next to Lindsey’s bed at bed time and waited for help on the bed, Lindsey knew then that “Sophie” was hers forever “Sophie” has been an easy-going dog who is quite outgoing. She loves to take walks, play and eat turkey with peanut butter for a treat. “Sophie” found her forever home with Lindsey and they both are better off because of it.

Pet of the Month - December 2011 - Dana Jasper

2011-12-01T14:13:00.000-08:00

Kim Jasper loves checking out the animals at the Humane Society, but it seems when she does that, one of the cats out there, steals her heart. That was how Dana became part of her family. Dana was a mellow, friendly cat who loved Kim from the first minute she stepped into the cat room. Dana was adopted on St. Patrick’s Day in 2010, they estimate she was 3 years old then. She is a loveable cat, who puts up with most anything. She loves kids, dogs, strangers. Soon after she came home, she started having digestive issues. Dana spent a lot of time at Taylor Vet after she was diagnosed with megacolon, which causes constipation, abdominal cramping and is very difficult to treat. Kim tried all the treatments, Laxatone, enemas, other types of medicine, a major diet change, and Dana was just not getting better. Dana was such a trooper through it all. Finally after a lot of trial and error, they found the right combination of treatments that worked! Dana now gets medicine three times a day, and eats a very special diet mixed with canned pumpkin. She is a playful cat who loves to bring all her toys to Kim’s bed in the middle of the night and hides them in her shoes. Even though Dana is more high maintenance than most cats, in Kim’s opinion, being able to have her healthy and whole is a blessing that far outweighs the costs.

4 Tips for Bringing Your Cat to the Veterinarian

2011-11-18T12:33:00.000-08:00

We know it can be tough to wrangle your cat for a trip to the veterinarian’s office. Many cats dislike the cat carrier as well as riding in the car, so heading in for an annual checkup can sometimes be a stressful proposition. Follow these four tips when you head to your next veterinary appointment to reduce your cat’s stress and make for a calmer car ride.

1. Make the carrier your cat’s second home.
Cat carriers are typically associated with many unpleasant things. Many cat owners keep the carrier in a closet or in the garage, so the cat hasn’t rubbed on it or slept inside it. Cats who haven’t transferred their scent to the carrier, therefore, see it as a foreign object. So give your cat time to mark the carrier with facial rubbing—she’ll feel like it belongs to her, and you may find it easier to place her inside. If you have room, make the carrier a part of your family room furniture. That means leaving it out all the time with the door open. Place a soft towel inside to make it a little more cozy. Pretty soon, your cat won’t think twice about entering the carrier.

2. Turn the carrier into a meal center.
Put part of your cat’s daily food in the carrier to help your cat associate something good with the carrier. Even better: Use a bit of especially yummy food, like canned food or even a little tuna. Or try tossing your cat’s favorite treat in the carrier when she wants to be left alone. This will reward her for seeking solitude in the carrier and continue to reinforce the notion that the carrier isn’t so bad after all.

3. Try a different kind of carrier.
If you have an emergency and don’t have time to let your cat adjust to the carrier, try using a pillowcase as a carrier. With the cat on your lap, slip the pillowcase over her body, head first. Knot the top of the case and support the bottom when holding your cat. Alternately, you can use any type of item your cat likes to nap in—two laundry baskets connected together could also work. These items aren’t a trigger for fear like your standard carrier might be.

4. Consider using a synthetic product.
Using a product that contains a feline facial pheromone can help calm cats during stressful events. These products can be sprayed on blankets, towels, or bandanas before you head to the veterinarian. Many cats become less agitated when their owners use these sprays, so purchasing one could make your life easier when it’s time to take your cat for a car ride.

Regular wellness exams are crucial for keeping your cat happy and healthy. Use these tips the next time you head to your veterinarian to make it much easier on both you and your cat.

Information courtesy of Dr. Sally J. Foote, Okaw Veterinary Clinic, Tuscola, Ill.

Paisley Cryer - Pet of the Month - November 2011

2011-11-01T18:59:00.000-07:00

Playful Paisley Cryer loves to balance on the rungs of the kitchen chairs, to "stalk" her owners, and to chase ice cubes on the floor. Her favorite toys include a scarf, her own tail, and laundry baskets. She loves to sleep on the third floor of a doll house and carries her little stuffed lion all over the house. She also loves to take catnaps in her owner's arms. Her 5:30 a.m. meowing is tolerated by her owners only because she's so cute and loving. She's an enthusiastic bundle of endless purring and playful tail twitching. Our family is blessed to have her!

Leptospirosis

2011-10-17T12:10:00.000-07:00

Leptospirosis is a zoonotic disease (a disease that can be transmitted from animals to humans) that is found in many wildlife reservoirs, such as deer, raccoons, rats, skunks and opossums. The disease is caused by a spiral shaped bacteria and is transmitted through urine, venereal transfer, across the placenta from mother to fetus, bite wounds, and ingestion of infected meat.
The most common route of transmission is from a carrier animal into stagnant or slow moving water to a dog. Late summer and fall have a higher incidence of disease cases due to the optimal temperatures occurring at this time of year. After only one day of infection, the bacteria begins to attack many organ systems including kidney, liver, spleen, central nervous system, eyes and genital tract. Clinical signs noted at home range from fever, little to no appetite, vomiting, diarrhea, and reluctance to move. Death due to dehydration and organ failure can happen quickly.
Confirmed diagnosis of this disease is important because of the potential risk to all humans having contact with the affected pet. Unfortunately diagnostic lab tests that give a quick result have been difficult to interpret and have unreliable results. The reliable blood tests require several weeks time to confirm a diagnosis and this disease does not allow this kind of time to treat. Treatment must begin immediately based on history and clinical signs.
Treatment for Leptospirosis involves supportive care to treat dehydration and support the organs being threatened. Antimicrobial drugs are administered initially to stop the organism from multiplying and then continued for at least three weeks to stop the carrier state and chronic disease.
Prevention of Leptospirosis is very important. We are seeing an increase in the number of cases of this terrible disease in the Cedar Valley and have updated our vaccination protocal to address this change.
Initially two types, or serovars, of Lepto were believed to cause the majority of disease. They were icterohaemorrhagiae and canicola. After veterinarians began vaccinating for these two serovars the incidence of the disease went down. However the initial vaccine did not protect against all of the serovars of Lepto and soon the incidents of disease caused by these extra types began to rise also. There are more current vaccines now that protect against four of the serovars of Lepto. Now the vaccine for Lepto also includes the serovars, grippotyphosa and pomona. For this reason, your veterinarian may be asking you to bring your dog in for a Lepto booster to boost your dogs immunity to these additional serovars and give your dog
more complete protection against this deadly disease.

Elizabeth Bixby, DVM

Pet of the Month - October 2011 - Max Brown

2011-10-02T15:54:00.000-07:00

Max is the beloved pet of the Brown family for the past 7 years. He came from a co-worker’s farm and was already named Max, but got the added middle name of Joseph, because he has a cross on his chest and a “coat of many colors.” One of his favorite things to do is to snuggle up under a blanket, and in fact, any blanket that comes into the Brown household quickly becomes his! He goes to bed early, and sleeps late and loves to be carried around like a baby and snuggle. Cheese is one of his favorite treats but he also likes to try to “kill” any new toys he gets by chewing on them and destroys them quickly. He loves his walks and gets so excited when he sees squirrels and bike riders through the front window of the Brown home. He doesn’t like the vacuum cleaner and tries to protect his family from it whenever it turns on! He loves his “camp” time with his friends when he gets to kennel at Taylor Vet. Life in the Brown family would not be the same without him.

Meet Thunder!

2011-09-16T13:20:00.000-07:00

Thunder is the newest member of the Bixby family. We recently adopted Thunder from the Aspire Therapeutic Riding Program in Waterloo. Like many of you, I had heard of Aspire, but never gave it much thought until now. We were looking for a pony for our children and a local horse trainer, Jenna Pearce, who also works at Aspire, recommended Thunder. Thunder has been living at the Aspire farm for several years and as many people do at some point in their lives, was becoming a little dissatisfied with his job in life and needed a change. This is understandable, because the horses at Aspire have a very important and tough job to do. After visiting the farm myself, I would say the horses there are more like counselors or paramedics for young souls who need someone to connect with.

I am a veterinarian at Taylor Veterinary Hospital where we care for all small pets. However, once a month I do work at horse sale at a sale barn in northeast Iowa. I know first hand that there are many horses who come through the sale with life stories that include neglect, abuse, abandonment and physical impairments. Sadly, our communities are filled with children who have similar life struggles. Until this week, I didn’t realize that at Aspire, the loving staff there can pair up children whose life stories and struggles mirror an Aspire horse’s life story. I am very proud that there is such a unique and worthwhile program right here in the Cedar Valley. Aspire is so much more than a chance for a handicapped child to ride a horse. The connections that are made between kindred spirits is what is so important between all pets and people, but this program is truly an inspiring testament to the amazing things that can happen when the human-animal bond is fostered.

Aspire has a fundraiser called Dances with Horses on September 24, 2011 at 7:00 at McElroy Auditorium in Waterloo. This is a night of music, choreographed dances with horses, trick riding performances and so much more. You can go to http://www.aspiretrp.org/ or http://www.danceswithhorses.org/ to get more information about how you can support the efforts of the Aspire program. Anyone who has a pet and understands the importance of the bond shared with that pet, should support the wonderful work done for our Cedar Valley kids through the Aspire Therapeutic Riding program.

Elizabeth Bixby, DVM

Pet of the Month - September 2011 - Louie and Lenny

2011-09-01T11:54:00.000-07:00

One day last July, Deb Gallagher and John Smith were taking their normal early morning walk in North Cedar. As they walked along the road, they noticed a small kitten that was laying at the edge of the road. John and Deb have been dog owners for years, but never had any desire to have a cat of their own, but being animal lovers, they had to try to help this sweet kitty. They figured they could take the kitten to the vet to see if there was anything they could do for it. The cuddled it and held it close as they walked home. By the time they were home, “Louie” had stolen a piece of their hearts. After a visit to the vet, they decided to keep Louie as their own. He is a sweet, affectionate cat, who will put his paws on either side of your head and hold you close. After a while, they decided that they would add another cat to their house and visited the humane society. Lenny was adopted and has changed the atmosphere in their home immensely. Louie and Lenny are opposites. Louie is the “Dad” in the family, they call him their “Buddha” with his calm ways. Lenny is the adventurous son who is always into something. Running, chasing and tumbling, Lenny is the daring one. Louie adjusted to having a new cat in the house quickly and now they are the best of buddies.

August 2011 - Pet of the Month - Buddy Cordes

2011-08-01T12:54:00.000-07:00

Buddy has been a part of the Cordes family for about 7 years. He is about 12 years old but began his life as a rescue dog. When his original owner passed away, Buddy was taken into the Cordes family. He is a black lab who loves his family. He gives “hugs” to the kids and loves to be around them. About 6 months ago, they noticed a growth on Buddy’s leg which needed to be removed. The tumor was so large that there wasn’t much skin to close the area. With Buddy licking the wound, and the tight skin, the incision kept coming apart. The area became infected and swollen and Buddy stopped using that leg. Dr. Smith suggested they try laser therapy to help the skin heal faster and reduce the swelling. Once they began the laser therapy, Buddy began to use his leg again and the incision began to heal. The Cordes family was a bit skeptical of the laser therapy at first, but they were amazed at what a huge difference it has made for Buddy. Buddy has regained his mobility, runs and jumps and enjoys life again.

Pet Talk - Help for Motion Sickness!

2011-07-14T14:20:00.000-07:00

While striving to educate people about issues that may arise with family pets, we would also like to help address concerns that our readers may be currently facing. It is our goal to answer general questions related to pet health care that will benefit multiple households. Keep in mind that we recommend pet owners contact their veterinarian for assistance if an immediate answer is required.
~A reader writes..."My dog gets car sick, always has and does every time. Is there anything I can do to help her (drugs, etc.) and does it mean she has stomach issues?”
~It sounds like your dog is experiencing typical motion sickness, just like some people. Motion sickness usually begins very shortly after starting the car ride. The dog will begin to drool and then vomit. It’s not serious, but certainly not something that we like to clean up.
To solve the problem, first try acclimating your dog to car rides by a process called desensitization. Desensitization is the gradual exposure to situations or stimuli that would bring on the undesirable behavior, but at a level so low that there is no negative response.
Do this by simply putting him in the car for a few minutes each day without going anywhere.
Then try just going down the driveway and back, and the next day going around the block.
Gradually build up the distance and time the dog rides in the car. Sometimes this will help to decrease the dog’s anxiety over riding in the car and may help to decrease vomiting.
If desensitization doesn’t work, there are some medications that may help. Dramamine (dimenhydrinate) and Dramamine Less Drowsy (meclizine) are common over-the-counter medications to try.
Ask your veterinarian to determine the proper dosage for your pet. (Never give any medications to your pet without your veterinarian’s advice!) These drugs are safe, with drowsiness as the only major side effect. If over-the-counter medications don’t work, your veterinarian may be able to prescribe some tranquilizers which can lessen agitation and motion sickness.

To have your question answered, e-mail it to petdocs@taylorvet.com with Pet Talk in the subject line.

Dr. Chad Smith is a veterinarian at Taylor Veterinary Hospital. He has a special interest in solving pet behavioral problems. E-mail him at cdsmith@cfu.net.

Pet of the Month - July 2011 - Roxy Davis

2011-07-01T10:10:00.000-07:00

Roxy Davis is a 7 year old Weimaraner who is the “sister” to Abby, Amelia and Ava Davis. She has grown up from the time she was a puppy as part of the Davis family and plays with the girls as if she was one of them. From running and playing outside, to dress-up, and even hide and seek, she has amazingly human characteristics! For her birthday, she gets to sit at the table, dressed up (the picture is this past birthday), eating hot dogs and cupcakes. She loves stuffed animals and cares for them as if they were her babies. She sits patiently while her “sisters” give her pedicures or dress her up. She gets her own Christmas stocking and when the girls were younger, would give them pony rides. Roxy is an amazing family dog and the Davis family wouldn’t be complete without her.

Pet of the Month - Maddie and Rosie DeVoll

2011-06-01T09:47:00.000-07:00

Maddie and Rosie DeVoll are lucky Lemurs. They are a small part of Barry DeVoll’s family of exotic animals. Barry grew up in Cedar Falls and knew early on that he was a hands-on learner and he wanted to provide opportunities for other kids to explore and learn in tangible ways. He started with magic and animal shows as a young entrepreneur and those shows have blossomed into an educational show that travels nationwide. “Bixby and Friends” is a show that teaches families about conservation and how to best take care of the world that we live in.

Maddie was Barry’s first ring tailed lemur. She is 5 years old and just had her first baby, Rosie who is almost 2 months old. While lemurs are cute and social animals, they do not make good pets. After the age of 2, lemurs reach full maturity and their behavior becomes more unpredictable. In order to keep the animal handlers and the audience safe, Maddie is retired and lives a comfortable life in an animal sanctuary. Lemurs are very social animals, and have some human characteristics. They live in groups (called Troups) of 30-60 lemurs. They are adventurous and brave and also affectionate with other lemurs. They eat “monkey biscuits” (a prepared dry food with protein and vitamins) and many fruits such as bananas, papayas, star fruit, apples, strawberries but don’t really like vegetables. For treats they like to eat fruit loops, and fruit snacks.

Bixby’s Rainforest Rescue show can be seen every day this summer at Adventureland. There will be an 8 foot Burmese python, a green winged Macaw, and a kinkajou in addition to a ring tailed lemur that will bring the rainforest alive for the audience. If you get a chance, stop by this summer to see some of these amazing animals and learn how to best take care of our world.

Do you know the 10 signs of sickness in cats?

2011-05-16T11:54:00.000-07:00

Signs of illness may be not readily apparent in cats, says Susan Little, DVM, DABVP. Dr. Little says that one reason cats are not being brought in for veterinary visits as often as they should be is that pet owners don't always know their cats are sick.

Clients should look for these 10 subtle signs of sickness in their cats:
1. Inappropriate elimination
2. Changes in interaction
3. Changes in activity
4. Changes in sleeping habits
5. Changes in food and water consumption
6. Unexplained weight loss or gain
7. Changes in grooming
8. Signs of stress
9. Changes in vocalization
10. Bad breath

If you have seen any of these signs in your cats - call today to talk with your vet! We want your cats healthy and happy.

Taken from May 6, 2011 issue of VETERINARY MEDICINE

What Vaccine Refusal Really Costs: Measles in Arizona

2011-05-05T11:52:00.000-07:00

This article taken from Maryn McKenna is a journalist for national magazines and the author of SUPERBUG and BEATING BACK THE DEVIL.
http://www.wired.com/wiredscience/2011/04/cost-vaccine-refusal/

Every once in a while, there’s news of a measles outbreak. On the surface, they don’t involve large numbers of cases — there’s one in Minneapolis right now that has racked up 21 cases so far — and so people seem to wonder why these outbreaks are such a big deal.

Here’s one reason why: Measles transmission within the US stopped in 2000 because of vaccination. Outbreaks here start with an importation from somewhere else where the disease still flourishes — but they gain a foothold because lack of vaccination, primarily from vaccine refusal, lets the disease get past what should be an impregnable barrier of herd immunity to attack those who are too young to be vaccinated or whose immunity has faded.
Here’s another reason: Stopping the measles virus before it can cause serious disease — and by “serious,” I mean deafness, pneumonia, encephalitis and miscarriage — is incredibly costly and labor-intensive. An account published overnight in the Journal of Infectious Diseases gives a glimpse at just how costly. To stop a 14-person outbreak that began with one unvaccinated tourist visiting a US emergency room, the Arizona Department of Health had to track down and interview 8,321 people; seven Tucson hospitals had to furlough staff members for a combined 15,120 work-hours; and two hospitals where patients were admitted spent $799,136 to contain the disease.
Here’s how the outbreak unfolded:
In February 2008, a 37-year-old Swiss woman who had never been vaccinated against measles arrived in Tucson after a visit to Mexico. She developed breathing problems and a rash and went to a local hospital’s emergency room. They suspected she had a viral illness and admitted her.
Here’s what you have to know, to understand what happened next. Measles is extremely contagious; up to 90 percent of unvaccinated people who are exposed to it will get it. And if someone nearby has it, you will get exposed — because coughed-out measles virus can travel across a room, and hangs in the air for hours. The best protection against spreading measles in a hospital is putting someone in a negative-pressure isolation room, which is engineered so no air can leak out into the rest of the hospital. It took two days to get the Swiss tourist into isolation, because measles is rare enough in the US that it was not the hospital personnel’s first thought.
Meanwhile:
A 50-year-old woman who had spent an hour in the ER at the same time as the Swiss woman caught the disease from her. Patient 2 got taken care of, went home, and started feeling feverish nine days later. She had difficulty breathing and thought at first she was having an asthma attack, so she went back to the hospital and was admitted for two days. That she had measles would not be discovered until six days after that.
While she was in the hospital, Patient 2 unknowingly infected a 41-year-old health care worker who took care of her — and who was scheduled to get a measles-vaccine booster shot that very day, because the hospital was also caring for the tourist. Patient 2 also passed measles to an unvaccinated 11-month-old boy who was in the same ER while she was waiting to get checked for asthma, and to two unvaccinated siblings — 3 and 5 years old — who were visiting their mother on the same hospital floor after Patient 2 was admitted.
Patient 3, the health-care worker, passed measles to a 47-year-old woman in her emergency department — who later ended up in an intensive care unit with measles pneumonia — and later to a 41-year-old man in his home. Patient 4, the toddler, gave the virus to an unvaccinated 1-year-old while they were both in the same pediatrician’s office. Five other people were infected somewhere in their everyday lives: a 2-year-old boy who had never been vaccinated and who also ended up in an ICU with seizures brought on by high fever; a 9-month-old and an 8-month-old, also unvaccinated; and two adults, 35 and 37, who might have gotten one dose as children, but had no documentation of receiving a second dose.
Those 14 are just the confirmed cases. In addition to them, there were 363 suspected ones, and today’s paper makes clear authorities believe there were more illnesses than they know. And for every known case, there were dozens or hundreds of exposed people who had to be checked: 145 passengers on the tourist’s flight from Mexico, 1,795 patients in the ER that treated Patient 2, 25 people who attended church with Patient 7, 10 kids in the same day care center as Patient 8.
There’s an important dimension to this outbreak that may not be evident at first. We tend to blame parents who hold their kids back from vaccination for breaches in the wall of herd immunity. But the people who were infected in this outbreak and shared responsibility for passing it on included adult health care workers who had never been vaccinated and who had missed or declined the chance to get booster shots. By doing that, they put their unknowing patients at risk — and infected, among others, someone with brain cancer and another person living with Down syndrome.
When the hospitals checked to see who among their staff wasn’t vaccinated, they found that 30 percent didn’t know or couldn’t prove it. The two hospitals where measles patients were cared for actually did blood tests on their staff, and found that 9 percent were non-immune: never-vaccinated, never-infected. If the hospitals had not acted to identify those employees and send them home or vaccinate them, they could have hosted a roaring epidemic that might have been impossible to contain.
We can argue endlessly, and do, about people who refuse vaccination for themselves or their children. Under law, they have the right to take that risk. But what this Arizona outbreak makes clear is how many more people are forced to assume that risk without being consulted: not only the infants, elderly and immune-compromised among those 8,321 people exposed in this outbreak, but the hospital shareholders and taxpayers who paid the bill for it to be contained. Until we start counting up those costs as well, we won’t achieve an honest accounting of vaccine refusal’s true price.

Cite: Chen SY, Anderson S, Kutty PK et al. Health Care–Associated Measles Outbreak in the United States After an Importation: Challenges and Economic Impact. J Infect Dis. (2011) AOP April 28, 2011. doi:10.1093/infdis/jir115

Pet of the Month - May 2011 - Missy Kelly

2011-05-02T11:54:00.000-07:00

John and Linda Kelly have a passion for pets. They love both cats and dogs, but when their beloved beagle Kasi passed away, they quickly decided that they needed another small cuddler to help ease the pain. While at the dog show in Waterloo they met up with a breeder of small beagles and within two days were the proud parents of Missy who is also a beagle. Missy is now 6 ½ years old and an integral part of the Kelly family. She is a snuggler, and has to spend time with “Daddy” as soon as he comes home from work and showers him with kisses. She played with assorted toys until one day Linda bought a stuffed fox toy. “Foxy” instantly was the only toy that Missy would play with. She takes “Foxy” with her wherever she goes, uses her as a pillow, and cuddles her as if she was her baby. Missy has recently been on a bit of a diet, but loves carrots, sweet potato, red and green pepper, cabbage and the occasional bite of egg and toast.

Anyone who has dealt with the death of a pet knows the pain of loss. For John and Linda, Missy was the balm to ease that pain and bring joy back into the Kelly family.

Pet of the Month - April 2011 - Shiloh Schnackenberg

2011-04-01T09:51:00.000-07:00

Shiloh Schnackenberg is a Pembroke Welsh Corgi and "daughter" to Mark and Melissa Schnackenberg. She is 4 1/2 years old. She was adopted from a local pet store. Being the dog of a meteorologist, she was introduced on the news because we wanted the viewer's help in naming her. We had many options from viewers like Puddles and Radar, but the one we loved most was, of course, Shiloh. Her favorite thing to do is chase our two cats and any poor squirrel that ends up on our deck. She loves to run. Our house is her own personal raceway daily as she runs laps through each room. Her favorite treat are mini marshmallows. She is a really wonderful little dog. :)

Baby Chick and Duckling Safety Tips

2011-03-14T11:33:00.000-07:00

Salmonella bacteria are a common cause of foodborne illness, but can also be spread to people by direct contact with animals that carry the bacteria, such as reptiles and birds. Children can be at particular risk from these birds, since they are less likely to wash their hands and have more frequent hand-to-mouth contact than adults. Outbreaks of Salmonella infections have been linked to exposure to baby chicks and ducklings, and many of these outbreaks have occurred in the spring, around Easter.
Here are some important tips for parents and child care providers to reduce the exposure of young children to Salmonella from chicks and ducklings.
· Do not let children younger than five years of age handle baby chicks, other young birds, or items contaminated by the poultry.
· Wash your hands thoroughly after handling poultry or their droppings. Pacifiers, toys, bottles or other objects should not touch the baby birds or their cages. If these objects become contaminated, wash them with warm soapy water.
· Do not eat or drink around poultry or their living areas.
· Keep the bird area separate from areas where food and drink are prepared or consumed. Do not allow chicks or ducklings on table surfaces or places where food will be prepared or eaten. Do not wash the birds’ food and water dishes in the kitchen sink.
For more information, visit http://www.cdc.gov/healthypets/easter_chicks.htm
Taken from Iowa Department of Public Health - EPI Update

Pet of the Month - March 2011 - Whiskey Dunakey

2011-03-01T18:57:00.000-08:00

Whiskey was found while Barb Dunakey was scrolling through PetFinder, looking at pictures and descriptions of Shelties available for adoption, when I came across a photo of a little guy listed with a rescue in the Minneapolis area. His story and his picture captured my heart, within a few days we were approved to adopt, and we headed up to visit 'Tate' to see if he was the one for us.
We'd found out that 'Tate' was a dog originally from Iowa, saved by an individual rescue person at a Midwest Auction - more than likely a puppymill dog - and relocated to a caring organization in the suburbs of Minneapolis. They told us 'he was the most disengaged dog from human interaction' they'd ever taken in to their rescue. For the first month he wouldn't even look at them, and it was apparent he hadn't been given any love or affection in his nearly 2 years of life.
When we went to visit, he'd been with them for over 2 months and we were the FIRST potential adopters he even allowed to approach. Anyone else who had come to see him hadn't been able to get close to him as he would run in fear from corner to corner trying to get away. He allowed my husband to approach him in the corner, and his rescurer was amazed that my husband was able to pet him and talk to him. Shortly thereafter, he allowed me to approach and talk softly to him while I petted him as well. It was apparent this little guy had led a traumatic life. Encouraged by the fact that he appeared to like us as much as he was capable, we happily adopted him and brought him home to be a part of our family.
From his arrival home on 8/21/10 until Thanksgiving weekend, he never made a single peep - not even a sigh or a yawn, let alone a bark; however, he did bark playfully at our Granddogs when they were here to visit during the holidays. He has made progress with tiny baby steps towards becoming a more normal, happy dog in the 5 1/2 months we've had him, but he has a long ways to go yet. His past life has left him highly stressed, and he appears to suffer a bit from OCD tendancies as well, but he's learning to trust and is coming out of his shell little by little.
Our little Whiskey is a beautiful Color-headed White/ Blue Merle purebred Sheltie with one blue eye and one brown, and weighs just under 15 pounds. We love him to death and can hardly wait for the time when he feels safe and secure with us! When that finally happens, we know he'll be a happy, content boy in his furrever home and we'll spoil him as much as he'll let us!!

Pet of the Month - February 2011 - Chagall Cook

2011-02-01T15:35:00.000-08:00

Chagall Cook is a White Cockatoo (or Umbrella Cockatoo). One interesting thing about most birds is that it is nearly impossible to determine the sex of the bird without scientific testing. Chagall’s person, Carol, has decided it isn’t worth the stress to Chagall to know for sure and refers to him as a “he.” Chagall is 5 years old and has lived with Carol most of his life, she has had him since he was a few months old and had to hand feed him until he was old enough to take in enough nutrition by himself. He eats pellet food and other food for parrots, but also eats the occasional hard-boiled egg, fruits and veggies. His beak is strong enough that he can crack an almond shell, but also delicate enough that he is able to peel the skin off a grape before he eats it.

Chagall is a very social bird and loves to cuddle. He can be calm and still, but also when he gets nervous, or excited he will show his crest, puff up his feathers, bounce up and down and chatter. He can imitate some human noises and words. He can say his name, “Are you alright?” and “Goodnight”. He can also imitate Carol’s laugh. He feels more comfortable around women, but loves children as well. Cockatoos are chewers, so they need constant attention and toys to keep their chewing from causing destruction to wood. Cockatoos make great pets, but only after careful homework and research. Umbrella Cockatoos can live up to 80 years. The decision to be a Cockatoo owner is not one to be made lightly, but once you commit, they will be your friend and companion for life.

Bengal Cats

2011-01-18T11:58:00.000-08:00

     In the recent issue of the IVMA Update, there is an interesting paragraph about Bengal cats. Bengal cats and other hybrid feline species, such as Savannahs, are currently considered part of the Dangerous Wild Animal Bill. This bill can be found on the Iowa General Assembly website and the code for it is 717F. Although the bill states that domestic cats are not included in it, owners must be aware that the Bengal and Savannah are NOT considered by this bill to be domestic cats. It is illegal to breed these cats and owners are required by law to have them microchipped. These cats must also be registered with the state of Iowa.

      If you happen to have one of these cats, you can go to the Iowa Department of Agriculture website. Once there, scroll under the Animal Industry Bureau to Dangerous Wild Animal Registration to find the form required for registration with the state of Iowa. You can also just phone 515-281-5305 to inquire about the registration process.

~Owners who do not comply with the bill can be fined $200.

     This has been a controversial bill. If you want to voice your opinion about it our state veterinarian recommends you contact your legislator as soon as possible.
Elizabeth Bixby, DVM

January 2011 Pet of the Month - Uncle Sam

2011-01-03T14:45:00.000-08:00

“Sally” was brought to Taylor Veterinary Hospital by one of our staff member’s family as a young pregnant cat and was quickly discovered to be a handsome male. Sam is approximately a year and a half old and is not declawed. Since his arrival, he has been neutered, tested negative for feline leukemia/FIV, dewormed, and has received his distemper and rabies vaccinations (he will require a distemper booster three weeks after his first vaccination).

Sam has established himself as an affectionate cat who enjoys being held and cuddled; his purr is activated almost immediately!

There are some things you shouldn't share.

2010-12-27T11:47:00.000-08:00

A zoonotic disease is an infectious disease that can be transmitted from an animal to a human while the opposite, diseases transferred from a human to an animal, is classified as reverse zoonosis. While not all infectious diseases can be transmitted between species (pets to people, or vice versa), there are some that require special consideration.
Any person in contact with an infected animal may acquire a zoonotic disease, however, certain individuals are more at risk. People with compromised immune systems such as
pregnant women, the elderly, or people undergoing treatment for cancer are much more likely to contract the disease. Children are also more at risk due to immature immune systems and poor sanitary practices.
The following zoonotic diseases are just a few of the many that exist.

Roundworms: Nearly every puppy or kitten is born with roundworms contracted from its mother. These worms can be transmitted to people, especially children. Most infections in people are so mild as to cause no signs at all, but the potential for severe illness exists. Migrating worms may damage the liver, eyes or brain. As the eggs are found in an animal’s stool, sanitation is essential; feces should be removed and disposed of daily and everyone who handles the animal should wash their hands.

This is especially important in young children, who often put their fingers in their mouths. Also remember to cover all sandboxes when not in use to prevent children from contacting contaminated feces. Protect yourself and your family from roundworms by having your veterinarian do a yearly test on a stool sample from your pet. Some veterinarians prescribe regular dewormings even in the face of negative stool tests because of these risks.
A very effective way to protect your family from roundworms is to use year ‘round heartworm preventative that also treats intestinal worms. These tablets deworm your pet each month as well as providing protection against heartworms.
Rabies: Anyone who saw the movie "Old Yeller" knows that rabies is a zoonotic disease. Rabies is caused by a virus transmitted through animal saliva. In Iowa, the most common carrier of rabies is the skunk while the raccoon is the most common on the East coast. Signs of rabies include personality and behavioral changes, incoordination, difficulty swallowing, seizures, and death. Rabies is fatal -- there is no cure in man or animals. Protect yourself by not handling wild or stray animals and by having all your dogs and cats vaccinated against rabies.
Bats are also a potential source of rabies infection. While most bats do not carry rabies, CDC guidelines recommend testing of any bat found in a room with a sleeping person, or someone unable to communicate whether they might have been bitten, such as an infant or an incapacitated adult. If you think you, or a member of your family might have been exposed to a bat under these circumstances, call your physician and explain the situation.
Toxoplasmosis: Toxoplasmosis is caused by a protozoan, a one-celled parasite. Hunting cats often contract this parasite by eating small rodents, and then shed the cysts in their stool. The parasite is also found in raw meat. Most cats and people show no signs of the disease, or have only mild flu-like symptoms. Those who have a weakened immune system may develop a much more serious infection. Fetal infection, especially during the first three months of pregnancy, can result in blindness, so pregnant women must take special precautions to avoid contacting toxoplasmosis cysts. Protect yourself by not letting your cat hunt and not feeding it raw meat. Pregnant women and persons with compromised immune systems should wear gloves when gardening, wash thoroughly after handling raw meat, and should not change litterboxes.
Although the chances of getting a zoonotic disease from your pet are slim, you should be aware that it could happen. The most effective way to prevent zoonotic diseases and ensure your good health is to ensure good health for your pets. Contracting a pet-borne disease usually requires very close contact with animals or their excretions, so zoonotic diseases can be avoided with common sense, cleanliness and regular pet examinations and vaccinations. For more information on zoonotic diseases, talk to your veterinarian, your physician, the public health department, or search reputable internet sites such as the CDC Healthy Pets Healthy People.
Chad Smith, D.V.M.

December 2010 Pet of the Month - Chance Lighter

2010-12-01T05:57:00.000-08:00

This is the amazing story of Chance.

At the beginning of summer, my husband and I wanted to plant some trees on our property. I went out one morning to buy the trees. My initial plan was to go to Lowe's Garden Center, but for some reason, as I drove by, I was compelled to go to Farm & Fleet. When I arrived, the store was not to open for another 15 minutes. Again I felt compelled to sit and wait rather than just leaving.

I picked out my trees and waited for the girls who worked there to check me out, but they were distracted by something.... One of them reached down into a nursery pot full of rainwater from the night before, and picked up a tiny little 3 week old kitten that had been floating in the cold water. He appeared to be dead, and he smelled terrible, as the water was polluted and foul. There were no other cats or kittens around and it is a mystery why he was there.

"He's still alive!" said one of the girls, "But just barely..." I reached out and took him in my hands and could feel a slight heartbeat, but he was unconscious and cold, and so very tiny. He was so dehydrated that his eyes were sunken in. "I'll take him." I said as I wondered how this was going to work out. We already have quite a large family of cats but I was not about to walk away from this little soul who needed a chance to live.

At home, my husband was as concerned as I was that this little kitten might not survive. We cleaned him up, got him warm and began with drops of Pedialyte on his tongue to get some fluids in him. He remained only semiconscious for the better part of the day and I was sure he was going to die.

Drops of kitten formula were placed on his tongue one at a time and I held him and stayed up with him most of the night and he regained consciousness the next morning and began devouring the formula. Within a few more days he was gaining strength. The rest, as they say, is history.

As for his name, it was "chance" that I went to that particular store that day, "chance that I didn't leave before they opened, and "chance" that he was found at that moment, still barely alive. So his name had to be Chance.

Chance is a very affectionate, playful little guy and is interested in everything! He gets along with all the other cats and loves his teddy bear, which he slept with as a tiny kitten, in place of the mother cat.

Buddy Needs a Home - Can you Help?

2010-11-30T15:32:00.000-08:00

Buddy’s owner recently died and he needs a new home. He is a 4-5 yr old Greyhound/hound mix male. Buddy is neutered and current on all shots and vet care. Buddy is social and gets along well with adults, kids, and other animals including other dogs and cats. He has been around kids from infants to teens, lived with a cat and another dog. Buddy is a dog that likes to be outside if his people aren’t home but wants to be inside with people when they are home. He is used to being outside during the day while his owner was at work. Buddy does not tolerate being crated – so do not plan on keeping him in any kind of crate. Buddy does take medication twice a day because he is anxious, though the medication is very inexpensive. If you are interested in providing Buddy a loving home, please contact Barb Lind at 319-504-1489. References will be checked to ensure Buddy goes to a good home. Buddy was much loved and needs a family to continue to give him the home and love he deserves!

Have We Seen Your Cat Lately?

2010-11-15T12:14:00.000-08:00

The majority of cats are not receiving the medical attention they deserve. Though cats outnumber dogs as pets in the U.S., fewer cats receive annual veterinary exams. Feline visits fell from 70.8 million in 2001 to 63.3 million in 2006, even as the number of cat-owning households increased.

The American Association of Feline Practitioners (AAFP) and American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA) recommend a minimum of one wellness exam per year for cats and more frequent exams for those cats with medical or behavioral issues. Cats don’t always display signs of illness to their owners, and wellness exams and routine blood work can help detect concerns before they become life-threatening problems. Progression of medical conditions like kidney disease or heart disease can be slowed with proper medical treatment resulting in a longer, happier life for your cat.
Of cats that visit the vet at least once a year, only 22% receive vaccinations for any disease other than rabies. With vaccines available to help keep our cats safe and healthy, why take the risk of them getting feline leukemia or distemper? Without a current rabies vaccination, your cat is at risk for contracting this fatal disease from a bat that may find its way into your home. After a potential rabies exposure, your cat may need to be quarantined or even euthanized depending on the circumstances.
Even if your cat is a strictly indoor cat, they can still pick up various parasites such as fleas and intestinal worms. Some of these parasites can then be passed onto the human members of your family. An annual exam and stool sample analysis will help to catch the infestations early and minimize illness to you and your cat.
One reason cats are taken to the vet less often than dogs may be that pet owners feel that traveling is more stressful to a cat. This can be remedied in a number of ways. Start by using a top-loading carrier so the cat can be easily placed into and removed from it. Create a comfortable environment inside the carrier with a favorite blanket and toy. Withhold food before the trip to reduce motion sickness and drape a blanket or towel over the carrier to minimize stress.
It can be very tempting to trivialize the importance of an exam, blood work, vaccinations, and stool sample analysis, but would you consider doing these things to allow your cat to live a longer, healthier life? On behalf of your cat, schedule an annual wellness visit today.
Chad Smith, D.V.M.

Pet of the Month - November 2010 - K8 Rastetter

2010-11-01T12:00:00.000-07:00

K8 Rastetter was born on March 14, 2007 in the kitchen of Mark and Donna Rastetter. She was one of 9 puppies that were well loved, even rocked and sang to when they were young. The rest of her siblings were adopted by other families, but K8 worked her way into Mark and Donna’s heart. She loves playing with her tennis ball, and needs her daily walks to use up some of her unending energy. She recently graduated from P.E.T.P.A.L.S. and now is able to provide companionship and therapy to many who need companionship from a pet. P.E.T.P.A.L.S. is a non-profit organization that that has been in operation for 27 years which serves Black Hawk county. They provide volunteer opportunities for animal and human interaction by visiting local nursing homes, hospitals, group homes, schools, and other facilities with approved pets. K8 visited Friendship Village this past month for the first time and loved the attention she received from those she visited. K8 is a special dog who will use her love to impact many lives.

To learn more about P.E.T.P.A.L.S. contact Rachelle Yousefi 277-7418.

Pet of the Month - October 2010 - Rocky Petrucelli

2010-10-01T12:45:00.000-07:00

Our first guinea pig pet of the month is Rocky Petrucelli. He was adopted by Vicki on April 21^st, 2010. Guinea pigs make amazing pets. Rocky loves to be held and cuddled. One of his favorite places to sit is on the shoulder of a trusted person. He will occasionally get the chance to be out of his cage and run but he would rather spend time being held and played with. He is able to keep his sleep/awake schedule in sync with Vicki’s, he is usually awake when she is. Guinea pigs eat many different things, but the staple in their diets is hay. Rocky also loves green leaf lettuce, kale, parsley and carrots. He will occasionally get some apple for a treat. One of Vicki’s favorite things about Rocky is all the vocalizations that he makes. Guinea pigs purr when they are content and happy, can make loud noises when they are hungry or hurt, and other noises when they are scared or nervous. “Popcorning”, or little jumps in the air, is what Rocky does when he gets excited. If you haven’t ever had a guinea pig as a pet, give them a chance. Their personality and love cannot be duplicated.

MRSA, MRSA, MRSA!

2010-09-30T13:30:00.000-07:00

MRSA colonies

There always seems to be one topic that sticks with you and haunts you after attending an informative continuing education meeting. After the fall Iowa Veterinary Medical Association meeting last week in Ames, MRSA was the bug that really had me bugged after the meeting. MRSA stands for Methicillin Resistant Staphylococcus aureus. This nasty bacteria has acquired a gene that reduces the ability of our most common antibiotics, penicillins and cephalosporins, to attach to it. This bacteria can roam around and reproduce quite happily and most antibiotics have little or no effect on it! Not only that, but as many as 1 in 3 people are what are referred to as colonized. This means folks with no clinical signs or evidence of disease what-so-ever are carrying this bacteria and can spread it to others. Those people who have active MRSA infections have fever, wounds, high white blood cell counts and a whole host of other severe problems that stem from a bacterial infection gone wild.

Drug resistant bacterial infections seem to come from two main sources or situations.
1.) Bacteria found in the environment, either in a hospital or in the community.
2.) Bacteria that stems from a patient’s own normal flora ( the normal good bacteria that all people and pets have which normally helps to fight off the bad kinds of bacteria) that over populates because of increased and/or inappropriate antibiotic use.
Risk factors for community acquired MRSA, or drug-related resistant infections, are young age, kids participating in contact sports, sharing towels or athletic equipment, having a weakened immune system, living in crowded or unsanitary conditions, and association with healthcare workers. Risk factors for hospital acquired infections are current or recent hospitalization, living in a long term care facility, invasive devices such as catheters, and recent antibiotic use.
What’s the human - animal connection? The most important multi-drug resistant organisms are MRSA as we described earlier, enterococcus species, enterobacter species, and pseudomonas species bacteria. Colonized animals are a concern due to their potential for future development of infection ( especially if they are scheduled for surgery) and the potential for transmission of these drug resistant bacteria to humans. If an animal or human in a household develops illness, it may be very difficult to tell which way the infection was transmitted because it could pass from human to animal or from animal to human. There has been no evidence to show that giving antibiotics to a colonized individual is a good idea. This would just likely make the resistant bacteria smarter and even more resistant to the next antibiotic chosen.
To quote Dr. Jo Ann Morrison, Senior Clinician and Internal Medicine Service Chief at Iowa State University College of Veterinary Medicine, broad, non-targeted antibiotic therapy has caused the following:

Increased pathogen exposure to antibiotics
Enhanced the resistance mechanisms of bacteria
Increased levels and rates of resistance in pathogen populations
Decreased the effectiveness of medications
Limited future therapy options
Favored emergence of resistance by eliminating competing normal flora ( the good bacteria that fights off the bad bacteria)

Ruptured MRSA infection

All that being said, what are we to do. Do what your mother always has told you. Wash your hands. Wash your hands. Wash your hands. Students should never share water bottles or towels in the locker room. Parents need to make their teenagers aware of MRSA and the population of colonized individuals that they are very likely in contact with every day. Disinfecting locker rooms and bathrooms on a regular basis as well as door knobs, locker handles and water fountains is very important. Households should clean bathroom counter and sink surfaces well too. Store toothbrushes upright and away from other toothbrushes and send them through the sanitize cycle in the dishwasher often.

For more information on good disinfecting protocols go to Disinfection protocol.
MRSA Manual I included this just as an example of a management protocol for MRSA because we have used Techni-care at the veterinary hospital for several years with excellent results, but there are many other examples of disinfecting protocol online.
Dr. Elizabeth Bixby

Hermit Crabs

2010-09-21T12:15:00.000-07:00

Fall is here and it is back to school time. One of the fun things about going to school is the class pet. Students are enjoying learning about the care and responsibility of all sorts of pets in the classroom. One pet who is becoming a big hit is the land hermit crab. These little crabs are very entertaining for kids and adults alike and are relatively easy to care for with a few instructions.
Hermit crabs need a home, which can be simply an inexpensive ten-gallon aquarium. The aquarium must have a substrate covering the floor. This can be clean sand or coconut fiber or better yet something called Calci-sand which has calcium carbonate to strengthen the exoskeleton. The substrate needs to be deep enough to cover the crab because they enjoy digging and burrowing. The hermit crab needs a shallow water dish; if the water is too deep the crab will drown. It needs to be wide enough to fit the whole crab, as he will drag his whole shell into the dish. Hermit crabs enjoy their toys. Put toys for climbing inside the aquarium. Another item for the aquarium is a large sponge. The sponge adds humidity to the air and keeps the crabs gills moist. (Hermit crabs use gills to breath, not lungs like humans do.)

Hermit crabs can be fed a commercial hermit crab food. If it is in pellet form it must be crushed for them to be able to pick it up. Crabs also like a large variety of foods for treats such as fruits, vegetables, nuts, raisins, applesauce and peanut butter. Do not feed hermit crabs dairy products because their systems cannot tolerate dairy at all.

Hermit crabs need water to drink. It is important to give crabs non-chlorinated water and keep food and water dishes very clean and remove any uneaten portions daily. One thing to remember about hermit crabs is that they will molt or shed their exoskeleton as they grow. They outgrow one skeleton and have to grow a new one. The crab will need you to provide a new shell about one -third bigger than the old one. Molting takes about two weeks and during this time you must make an effort to keep the crab extra moist by misting with a squirt bottle and feeding a diet higher in calcium to help make a new skeleton.

One final note to remember is that hermit crabs do pinch. When they first come home they may pinch a lot because they are hungry and mishandled. Children may need to handle them with gloves at first. Kids should handle the crabs over a soft surface like a bed so that if the child drops the crab, it won't be injured. Generally it is recommended to pick up the hermit crab by the shell, but use caution because they can still reach around to pinch. Once the hermit crab is acccustomed to being hand fed and handled the incidence of being pinched does become less and less. They are interesting to watch and a great way to teach kids about crustaceans.

Elizabeth Bixby, DVM

Pet of the Month - September 2010 - Wrigley Hess

2010-09-01T08:40:00.000-07:00

Wrigley Hess (named, of course, because of the Cubs) is a 4 year old German Shorthaired Pointer. His proud parents are Derrick and Lindsay Hess who adopted him when he was a puppy. Wrigley was a bit shy at first, but now he is a dog who loves people and being with his owners. Wrigley can sit, shake hands, lay down, and if you put a treat on his nose, he can flick it off and catch it in his mouth. He is learning how to give high fives as well. Wrigley loves cheese, carrots and any other dog treat. He has found his place to sleep in Derrick and Lindsay's bed and is truly a part of their family. He even tries to join in conversation, when someone talks to him, he will make weird dog noises in response. Wrigley is thrilled that his parents got married in August and has loved "helping" pack the boxes as they move into a new home. He is a very lovable, well-behaved, and smart dog that makes the Hess family complete.

Instructions for Giving your Kitty a Pill (Joke)

2010-08-09T13:08:00.000-07:00

From time to time your little feline friend gets sick and the Vet will prescribe some pills, tablets or capsules as a remedy. Use the following directions for administering them:
1)Pick up cat and cradle it in the crook of your left arm as if holding a baby. Position right forefinger and thumb on either side of cat's mouth and gently apply pressure to cat's cheeks while holding pill in right hand. As cat opens it's mouth, pop pill into mouth. Allow cat to close mouth and swallow.
2)Retrieve pill from floor and cat from behind sofa. Cradle cat in left arm and repeat process.
3)Retrieve cat from bedroom and throw soggy pill away.
4)Take new pill from foil wrap, cradle cat in left arm holding rear paws tightly with left hand. Force jaws open and push pill to the back of the mouth with right forefinger. Hold mouth shut for a count of ten.
5)Retrieve pill from goldfish bowl and cat from top of wardrobe. Call spouse in from the garden.
6)Kneel on the floor with cat wedged firmly between knees, hold front and rear paws. Ignore low growls emitted by cat. Get spouse to hold cat's head firmly with one hand while forcing wooden ruler into mouth. Drop pill down ruler and rub cat's throat vigorously.
7) Retrieve cat from curtain rail, get another pill from foil wrap. Make note to buy new ruler and repair curtains. Carefully sweep shattered antique china cups from hearth and set to one side for gluing later.
8) Wrap cat in large towel and get spouse to lie on cat with head just visible from below armpit. Put pill in end of drinking straw, force cat's mouth open with pencil and blow pill down drinking straw.
9)Check label to make sure pill not harmful to humans, drink glass of water to take taste away. Apply Band-Aid to spouse's forearm and remove blood from carpet with cold water and soap.
10)Retrieve cat from neighbor's shed. Get another pill. Place cat in cupboard and close door on neck to leave head showing. Force mouth open with dessert spoon. Flick pill down throat with elastic band.
11)Fetch screwdriver from garage and put door back on hinges. Apply cold compress to cheek and check records for date of last tetanus shot. Throw T-shirt away and fetch new one from bedroom.
12)Phone fire department to retrieve cat from tree across the street. Apologize to neighbor who crashed into fence while swerving to avoid cat. Take last pill from foil-wrap.
13)Tie cat's front paws to rear paws with garden twine and bind tightly to leg of dining table. Find heavy duty pruning gloves in shed, force cat's mouth open with tongs. Push pill injto mouth followed by a large piece of hamburger. Hold cat's head verticallyand pour a pint of water down the throat to wash pill down.
14)Get spouse to drive you to the emerency room, sit quietly while doctor stitches finger and forearm and removes pill remnants from your right eye. Stop at furniture shop on the way home to order a new table.
15)Take cat to vet to get more pills.

August 2010 Pet of the Month - Meika Olsen

2010-08-02T11:28:00.000-07:00

Jodi Olsen has always loved animals, but has never owned a cat before. Her family have always been "dog people." When she recently bought her first house she decided she was going to jump feet first into cat ownership. On her way home from vacation in Chicago on July 4th, she stopped at a friend's farm near Jesup and picked up Meika. Meika was born on May 1, 2010. Jodi's sister also became a cat owner that day with another kitten named Coco. The other names Jodi's friends wanted to call her were Optimus Prime and Bella but as Jodi was boating one day the name Meika popped into her head. She loves running laps around the house and racing up and down the recliner. She is still very curious and likes to peek into everything. Meika makes friends easily when people come to visit. She will cuddle on your lap or sit next to you on the couch to keep you company. Meika has come in to visit Dr. Smith a few times to make sure she stays healthy and has an active, long life. She has converted Jodi into being a "dog AND cat person!"

Skunks Don't Make Good Pets

2010-07-29T08:58:00.001-07:00

This comes from the Iowa Department of Public Health. Read and pass along!
Several weeks ago, a Northwest Iowa family decided to adopt a baby skunk that they had found in their yard. When the skunk became ill last weekend, a vet was called; the skunk was tested and found to be rabid. The skunk was likely infected with rabies before it was brought into the home. Because of this:
~All five family members are receiving the rabies vaccine and rabies immune globulin;
~Approximately 20 other family members and friends who came in contact with the skunk are being assessed for exposure to rabies and at least 6 others are receiving rabies shots;
~The unvaccinated family dog will have to be put into quarantine for six months, or euthanized.
Lessons to be learned:
~Avoid contact with all wild animals, especially skunks and bats since these animals are the reservoir for the rabies virus in Iowa.
~Vaccinate all pets against rabies.
~Do not keep any wild animals as pets. Special licenses are needed in Iowa to keep wild animals.

Taken from the EPI Update for Friday July 23, 2010
Center for Acute Disease Epidemiology (CADE)
Iowa Department of Public Health (IDPH)

Mosquitoes, Mosquitoes, Everywhere!

2010-07-20T12:57:00.000-07:00

One of the hot topics of neighborly discussion this summer is, "How about those mosquitoes? They are terrible at my house." "Yes, they are the worst I've seen!" Sound familiar? With all the rain this summer the radio and television are full of stories regarding the resulting huge mosquito population.

West Nile Virus and Heartworm Disease are both passed on to dogs by mosquitoes. However, West Nile Virus poses minimal threat of disease where deadly heartworm disease is common among unprotected dogs. According to the Animal Poison Control Center, there has only been one confirmed case of West Nile Virus in a dog in the past year and a half. In 2001, there were 120 confirmed heartworm positive cases in Black Hawk county alone.

Given the burgeoning mosquito population this year we want to urge all dog owners to make the extra effort to have your dog's blood tested for heartworm and then follow with the preventative medication. This not only protects your pets, but it helps assure that we don't get an enormous outbreak of heartworm disease that moves out of control when there is such an opportunity for the spread of disease with the increased mosquito population.

As for West Nile protection, the same concepts you use to protect yourself apply to your dog. Stay inside at times of greatest exposure which seems to be at dawn and dusk. Eliminate all standing, stagnant water sources. Use a mosquito repellant on yourself and on your dog. The sprays vary, a pyrethrin product may be safer for your dog than DEET. All sprays should be used with care, especially around the face and eyes. The repellant wipes may be easier to apply. If you have more questions about heartowm disease, West Nile virus or mosquito repellent, please call us... we would be glad to answer your questions.

Elizabeth Bixby, DVM

July 2010 Pet of the Month - Velvet Austin

2010-06-30T09:01:00.000-07:00

Velvet Austin is a black Lionhead rabbit that was born in the late fall of 2009. She was adopted by Megan from the Cedar Valley Humane society in Cedar Rapids and named for the song "Black Velvet." Her middle name is Lulu, which is Native American for rabbit. Her first visit to Taylor Veterinary Hospital was a busy one at the hospital when another rabbit had a c-section to deliver her bunnies. It was one hopping day there!

Velvet loves any kind of veggies and greens (especially parsley and cilantro). She is very active and runs around both her cage and the house. She doesn't really like to be held for very long, but does love to be petted, especially along the bridge of her nose. One of her new favorite activities is to explore outside with her new harness. She found that she loves clover and has a "cousin" Zoey the poodle who like to spend time together. They are an unlikely pair, but Velvet will even sit still long enough for Zoey to sniff and lick her. Velvet is usually a pretty independent bunny so new visitors and friends have to slowly introduce themselves to her. Velvet will soon be moving to a new home with more room to run and explore. She is one of Taylor Vet's many rabbit friends.

Choosing the Perfect Dog

2010-06-22T13:31:00.000-07:00

Thinking about adding a new puppy or dog to your family? Congratulations! Dog ownership is one of life's most rewarding experiences. Dogs make wonderful companions and friends and can add a great deal of love and joy to your home and family. Before you begin your search for a canine companion, it is very important to do your homework to ensure that the dog breed you choose is a good match for your lifestyle and family. If you're thinking of a mix, it will make your search much easier if you have in mind "something like a lab" or "some kind of terrier."

In finding the perfect dog, a number of questions should be addressed. What is your previous experience with dogs? There are some breeds that are not recommended for first-time owners. How much time and/or money are you willing to spend on grooming to keep a long soft coat free of tangles and mats? Children and dogs can make a wonderful mix... or a very bad one. If you have children, are you prepared to spend time training both the dog and the children to treat each other appropriately?

What size dog is right, how much space do you have and how much exercise can you give your dog are all related questions. Even though large dogs can take up a lot of floor space, they can be quite happy if allowed to expend their energy outside. Some large breeds do not require a lot of exercise and are content lying on the rug in a small apartment. Some small breed dogs only require short walks, while others can be extremely active and a large house may not be enough space to contain their exuberance.

What do you plan to do with your dog? Do you want a loyal couch potato, a jogging partner, or a good watchdog? Keep in mind that only a few breeds were originally designed to be pets. Most dogs were bred to be hunters, herders, guards or some other job which might be contradictory to what you want from a pet.

There are a number of ways to find out "the scoop" on your favorite breeds. A veterinarian is an excellent soruce of information. Talk with people you know about dogs they have had or go to a dog park where you can meet dogs and ask the owners questions. Breed books are available and there are some very good resources on the internet. AAHA's website, http://www.healthypet.com/, is a great place to start. Click on "Find A Pet" to see breed information or take a short quiz to find out the right pet for you. Never buy a dog just because you like how it looks.

If you are thinking about buying a dog for a present, make sure you or the potential owners are ready. You should not get a dog for someone that isn't expecting one or buy one on impulse. Getting a dog is a long-term commitment and should be planned for accordingly.

Whatever breed or mix you choose, remember that no breed is perfect, but researching positive and negative attributes before you get a dog will help ensure the best match possible. A well-behaved, housebroken, quiet, loyal dog doesn't come from any breed, but can be found in any breed, if the owner is willing to work at developing that relationship.

Chad Smith D.V.M.

June 2010 Pet of the Month - Atreyu and Moon Dalbey

2010-06-02T12:51:00.000-07:00

The Dalbey family loves animals and wanted to add a pet. Unfortunately one of the children has allergies to most cats and dogs. Glenn, the father, decided to do some research and found out that Bengal cats do not have as many allergens as other cats. On February 12th, Empress Moon Child (Moon for short) joined the Dalbey family. Soon after Atreyu was also adopted from Iowa Bengal Babyz. They were named after the characters in the “Never Ending Story.” Bengals typically have temperaments more like dogs, according to Glenn, they come when you call, walk on a leash and love to be outside with the family. They are very active, but also love to curl up in your lap and snuggle. They love kids and are very vocal when they want your attention.
Moon and Atreyu love chicken and will eat other meats, except pork. They won’t touch cat treats. Bengal cats continue to get more coloration until they are about 2 years old. They typically have spots kind of like a tiger. They can do amazing jumps, Atreyu can jump about 4 ½ feet straight in the air without running first. As they get older they will be able to jump closer to 6 feet! Moon and Atreyu love to play with anything that has a feather. Their favorite toy is a stick with a feather attached to the end of it. The Dalby family is thrilled with their pets and amazingly enough these Bengal cats are not causing any allergy problems with the family. They are a perfect fit!

New Tests to Keep Your Dog Healthy

2010-06-01T19:31:00.000-07:00

The SNAP 4Dx test is our newest diagnostic tool to help identify and treat diseases before they cause irreversible damage to your dog. It is a simple blood test that can be run in less than 10 minutes and can determine if your dog is positive for heartworm disease or if your dog has been exposed to three

Image via Wikipedia

tick-borne diseases: Lyme disease, ehrlichiosis, and anaplasmosis.

As the saying goes, “an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure,” and that holds true in veterinary medicine. Preventing heartworms can be as simple as giving a pill once a month. As heartworms are transmitted from dog-to-dog through a mosquito bite, using a product like Vectra as a mosquito repellent will help. Vectra also repels and kills fleas and ticks which will minimize disease transmission. Vaccinating your dog for Lyme disease is one more step to help prevent infection.

If your pet is diagnosed with heartworms or a tick-borne disease, early treatment will help minimize any long-term damage.

The Ending of Go Fetch Fitness for 2010

2010-05-27T11:50:00.000-07:00

Today is May 21, 2010, the last day of Go Fetch Fitness for 2010! We had such a tremendous group this year and each week was just packed with fun and learning. Our last two weeks, week five and six, were so exciting! In week five our special guest was Mary McInnis Meyer who has a yoga studio (Field of Yoga) right across the street from the veterinary hospital in downtown Cedar Falls. Mary is a wonderful speaker and she opened her studio up to all of our dogs and us for the first ever DOGA class in Cedar Falls. (That's dogs plus yoga = Doga!) We had a blast and really came away from this experience with a new understanding and appreciation for the health benefits of yoga. You can see pictures from this class at the Waterloo Cedar Falls Courier Website.
Week Six, our last week together, brought some glorious weather as we really pushed our way through our last three days together. This week was all about the exercise and we did our stretch out exercises and then immediately hit the trail. Our goal was a solid 45 minutes of walking which we accomplished along the beautiful Cedar Valley Trail system excending from Taylor Veterinary Hospital to Big Woods Lake and back!!

Team 2, the K-9 kids, were our big winners this year losing a total sum of 22.7 pounds! Wow! Congratulations! These determined walkers will be receiving a year supply of FREE dog food from Hill's Science Diet Pet Foods! Our individual with the most outstanding weight loss is no stranger to Go FEtch Fitness. J. Schmitz and his dog Blue have been through the Go Fetch Fitness program three times. J. is extremely committed to the program once he starts and this year he lost 14 pounds. For his tremendous effort, he received a 6-month FREE membership to the Family YMCA of Black Hawk County.

We have had so many opportunities to learn about our health in the past six weeks. We are all truly blessed to live in a community where we have access to such wonderful professionals to help us stay on the road to good health! Tyson Burton at Snap Fitness, the nurses at the Allen HeartAware program, Merriam Lake and her staff at Wheaton Fransciscan Healthcare, Mary McInnis Meyer our local yoga instructor at Field of Yoga and the Family YMCA of Black Hwk County are all right here and offer a huge variety of styles of health and fitness opportunities. It is our hope that you will take advantage of one or several of these means of improving or maintaining your health.

By taking care of yourself, you do take care of your whole family, even the furry four legged members! They depend on you to be healthy so that you can continue to make good choices for them as well!

Elizabeth Bixby, DVM

Heartworms: Is Your Dog Infected?

2010-05-20T13:57:00.000-07:00

Heartworms are worms found in the heart and large blood vessels of infected dogs They

Image via Wikipedia

are found in most regions of the United States and may cause life-threatening problems if not detected and treated quickly.
The mosquito plays an integral role in the transmission of heartworms. A female mosquito bites an infected dog and ingests microfilaria (immature heartworms). The microfilaria grow in the mosquito and when the mosquito bites a healthy dog, she transmits the microfilaria. It takes five to seven months for the microfilaria to mature into adult heartworms in the dog. At this time, the adult heartworms start producing microfilaria and the cycle continues.
Most dogs act normally and do not demonstrate any signs of heartworm disease for up to two years after infection. Unfortunately, by that time, irreversible damage has already been done. The worms interfere with the function of the heart leading to heart failure and subsequent damage to other organs. The signs of heartworm disease include a dry cough, weakness, shortness of breath, and exercise intolerance. Some dogs may even die suddenly during exercise or excitement.
A diagnosis of heartworm disease can be made early with the proper tests. Your veterinarian can run a simple blood test to determine if your dog is infected. This should be done on a regular basis to detect heartworms before extensive damage is done. If detected, heartworms can be treated, though treatment is expensive and requires hospitalization. The treatment consists of drugs administered at proper doses and time intervals to kill the adult heartworms and microfilaria. Rest is also a key factor in recovery. The success rate is high and even higher if the disease is caught early. As in many instances, the best solution to heartworm disease is prevention. Prevention is as easy as a pill given every month. With simple and affordable heartworm preventives available, no dog should have to worry about this potentially fatal disease. Talk to your veterinarian today.
Chad Smith, D.V.M

Check out these links to find out more information
Heartworms in Dogs: Facts and Myths
Heartworm Disease in Dogs and Cats
Heartworm FAQ

2010-05-04T08:10:00.000-07:00

A Message from Melissa, one of our technicians who's serving with the Army Reserve in Haiti:

I thought I'd write a little update. One more week to go! It's been going really well. We have treated over 2000 animals so far. Mainly we've seen goats, equine, and cattle. We (two vets and myself) are doing a lot of deworming. Many animals are very bloated and skinny. There's been a few treatments on wounds that have been infested by flies. Overall they are taking good care of their animals. Understandable considering they use them for many things. They have appreciated the care for both animal and human. They haven't had anyone help with healthcare for 10 years and the last time an animal clinic came through, they charged for vaccinations. We are vaccinating birds against New Castle and swine against a Swine Fever. Then all the goats, cattle, and equine are getting an anthrax vaccine. Not too many cats are seen here. I guess they are a delicacy for Haitians. (and especially for alcoholics according to our interpreter). Interesting story. It's been pretty hot here. In the sun it's measured at 120 degrees. I've been wearing plenty of sunscreen."

May 2010 Pets of the Month

2010-05-03T13:48:00.000-07:00

February 25th, 2010 was a big day for Deja Frank. She was 5 ½ years old and about to have her first litter of puppies. After visiting Dr. Smith, it was decided that she needed to have a C-Section in order to deliver safely. Roxy, Bella and Mailia Frank came into the world at Taylor Veterinary Hospital. As Deja was waking up from anesthesia, she had no interest in her new puppies, but by the time they were home an hour later, she was licking them, feeding them and taking care of all their needs. Maison, the father of the puppies who’s 1st birthday was the day before the puppies were born, is a very active dad. If Deja was not in the box with the puppies, he was. He is very playful and loves to be with his pups. This family of Pomeranian is taken care of by Mike and Kimberly Frank. Two of the three puppies have already found new homes with extended family. Bella is sticking close to home for now.

Go Fetch Fitness Week 3

2010-05-03T12:05:00.000-07:00

Welcome to another update of Go Fetch Fitness. It is hard to believe that we are already half way though our 2010 program! Our happy pups have really gotten into the swing of coming to Go Fetch to meet up with their new buddies. Our participants give daily accounts of their dogs getting really excited as they approach the clinic. Going to the vet was never something to look forward to before, but now we have so much fun walking and sniffing that these dogs can't wait to come back. It is so fun to watch the transformation from trepidation to anticipation and joy as they scamper in the front door each day.
Monday was weigh-in day. Thanks to our good friends at Novartis, each of our participants received a gift certificate. We had gift cards to Subway, Target, Hy-Vee and Walmart to share with everyone
!
Our speakers were sent to us by Merriam Lake, the Healthy Promotion Facilitator for Wheaton Franciscan Healthcare Wellness Services. Kelsey and Zach are seniors at UNI majoring in exercise science. It was great to have these young, enthusiastic students with us to share information about a topic they are so passionate about. Kelsey and Zach spent the week discussing the benefits of strength training and how strength training affects our metabolism. Kelsey and Zach were very prepared with outlines for everyone, exercises to demonstrate some resistance training as well as helping us by leading our pre-walk stretching exercises each day.
Did you know that according to a 1992 study, middle aged people, especially women, who do not strength train, lost 7 lbs of muscle every ten years, which decreased their metabolism by about 350 calories per day? Did you know that strength training leads to decreased arthritis pain, increased bone density, decreased blood pressure and improved glucose levels? Did you know it is impossible to actually turn muscle into fat or fat into muscle?

If you had been here to listen to Kelsey and Zach this week you would have learned all this and much more about strength training and your metabolism. Plus you would have walked for 90 minutes (30 minutes each Monday, Wednesday and Friday) giving you and your dog 90 out of the recommended 150 minutes of aerobic exercise each week! Plus you would have had FUN!
Elizabeth Bixby, DVM

Go Fetch Fitness Day 6

2010-04-26T12:31:00.000-07:00

Day 6 brought us another very experienced speaker in the area of fitness and the physiology of exercise. Paulette Herold is a Registered Nurse Practitioner and has received her MA in Cardiac Rehab and Exercise Physiology from UNI. Paulette has worked in Occupational Health for 14 years. She taught at Allen College, worked in the Vascular Lab and in Cardiac Rehab.
On Friday April 23rd, Paulette discussed the health benefits of walking your dog and of regular exercise in general. Paulette discussed Type 2 diabetes and how regular exercise helps to stabilize blood sugar. This is true for humans and for dogs. So if you or your dog are overweight and are prone to diabetes or already have diabetes, regular exercise a the same time each day will be very beneficial for both of you.
In addition to exercise, keeping a close eye on our sugar intake is important. Watching sugar intake before diabetes is even a concern, helps train our bodies in how to utilize sugar and how to produce insulin. Choosing low sugar, high fiber and roughage type snacks helps keep our insulin production from occuring in great surges and swings and maintains a more even level production. This protects the organ that produces the inuslin, the pancreas.
I appreciated Paulette's suggestion for low-sugar snacks, especially for kids. Cut up veggies with low or no fat ranch dressing, peanut butter, mozzarella cheese sticks, wheat think crackers, yogurt, fruit and Kashi cereals and granola were great suggestions. I have tried these with my own kids with great success!
The common nutrition message that we have been receiving from all of our speakers so far this Go Fetch Fitness season is to avoid processed foods and foods made with bleached or unbleached white flour and foods with hydrogenated or partially hydrogenated oils. these so called foods, either have no value to us or have a negative impact on our health. They either raise our cholesterol or drive us toward diabetes.
Again, the theme for Go Fetch Fitness is that by exercising with our dogs, we help thwart off the major debilitating diseases that occur in Americans and American dogs such as diabetes, heart disease and even cancer. If we can consistantly watch our diet and exercise, we can live longer with a better quality of life with the ones we love.
Elizabeth Bixby, DVM

Go Fetch Fitness Day 5

2010-04-26T12:20:00.000-07:00

On the fifth day of Go Fetch Fitness, we turned the focus from what we can do for the outside of our bodies to what is going on inside. Heidi DuCharme from Allen Hospital's HeartAware program came to the clinic to perform cholesterol and glucose tests for all of the participants who wanted to have a check. Teresa Elverum, an Allen home health nurse came to perform blood pressure checks for everyone as well. Heidi came back to class and explained just what all the numbers meant. She reminded us that the HDL or high density lipoprotein is the good cholesterol that actually helps clean the cholesterol out of our arteries. The bad cholesterol is reflected in the LDL or low density lipoprotein that tends to clog up our arteries. Heidi reminded us that some factors that contribute to high cholesterol are age, gender and genetics. We cannot change these factors, but she also pointed out the factors we can change such as smoking, obesity and poor diet choices. Exercising with your dog qualifies as a cholesterol fighting tool!! It is recommended that we get 45-60 minutes of exercise 5-7 days a week. This can be split into two 25 minute sessions if that works better for your schedule. Increasing your activity level is reported to increase the good cholesterol (HDL).
Heidi had so much information to share, it is impossible to report it all to you today. I encourage you to go to allenhospital.org to take the HeartAware questionnaire and seek out the information on this website or consult with the nurses in this program.
We have many more tremendous speakers that we will be reporting to you about this Go Fetch Fitness season. To extend the quality time that we have with our families - both two legged and four, is the goal of Go Fetch Fitness. Watch for more upcoming articles as we keep you informed about the journey this courageous group is taking together with their furry friends!!
Elizabeth Bixby, DVM

Go Fetch Fitness

2010-04-20T13:12:00.000-07:00

Image by Skwishy via Flickr

We are enjoying a great start to Go~Fetch~Fitness this year! Week one was absolutely packed with information for all of us - two legged and four!! On day one we calculated the daily energy requirement for each dog. This helped our owners determine the exact amount to feed their pets according to their body condition scores and their activity level. We will be increasing our walking time by five minutes each week. For the first week we started out at 20 minutes with about five minutes of warm up stretching before the walk.

On day 2 we special guest who volunteered to join us from Des Moines! Nicole Schumate is a representative from the Delta Society. She explained that the Delta Society helps prepare pets to become service dogs. These service dogs help in nursing homes, hospitals, physical therapy and in school reading programs. This is a national society and because of this status, when a pet becomes a Delta Society dog, the dog is insured with liability insurance through the Delta Society when they are performing their service activities.
Tyson Burton was our special guest on day 3 and continued to day 4. Tyson is the General Manager of our local Snap Fitness gym. Tyson has a Masters Degree in exercise science and has worked with athletes at all levels, from high school through the professional level! We are so lucky to have him with us as he and his associate calculated the body composition scores for all of our participants and took us step by step through a discussion of the Five Elements of Fitness: Nutrition, Cardiovascular Fitness, Supplementation, Resistance Training, and Personal Assistance.

A Pet's Ten Commandments

2010-04-15T12:30:00.000-07:00

A PET'S TEN COMMANDMENTS.........

1. My life is likely to last 10-15 years. Any separation from you is likely to be painful.

2. Give me time to understand what you want of me

3. Place your trust in me. It is crucial for my well-being.

4. Don't be angry with me for long and don't lock me up as punishment. You have your work, your friends, your entertainment, but I have only you.

5. Talk to me. Even if I don't understand your words, I do understand your voice when speaking to me.

6. Be aware that however you treat me, I will never forget it.

7. Before you hit me, before you strike me, remember that I could hurt you, and yet, I choose not to bite you.

8. Before you scold me for being lazy or uncooperative, ask yourself if something might be bothering me. Perhaps I'm not getting the right food, I have been in the sun too long, or my heart might be getting old or weak.

9. Please take care of me when I grow old. You too, will grow old.

10. On the ultimate difficult journey, go with me please. Never say you can't bear to watch. Don't make me face this alone. Everything is easier for me if you are there, because I love you so.

Using Internet for Pet Information

2010-04-08T14:09:00.000-07:00

The internet can be a very valuable resource when trying to find information regarding pets. However, because anyone can post anything he or she wants, not all websites contain accurate information. Books and journals, on the other hand, have frequently been peer-reviewed and edited by scholars and publishers to assure that each article is credible and based on fact.
On the World Wide Web, there is no similar filter. When researching, it is important to develop skills that will help determine which websites contain reliable content.
Consider the following:
• Is an author listed? What are his/her credentials on the subject?
• Is there contact information available for the author or site creator?
• Is a publisher noted? A publisher would have screened and verified the content.
• Look for signs that the site is academic or scholarly, such as organization name and logo, headers/footers, or a watermark.
• What is the point of view used throughout the site? If it seems opinionated or argumentative, it may not be factual.
• Does a “last updated” date show that the content is current?
Care must also be taken when ordering products from internet sites such as online pharmacies. Some claim to provide information about pet prescriptions and deliver pet medications at a lower cost than veterinarians, and even go so far as to say that you can ‘avoid a trip to the veterinarians’ office’. The facts are that a veterinarian can’t legally or ethically prescribe medication for a pet he or she hasn’t seen recently for the specific condition, or alternately, is not familiar with the care and keeping of the pet. Online prices might be lower because they are very close to expiration date or are coming off the gray market. Or, in some cases, they’re actually no lower. Most medications need to be in a temperature-controlled environment and there is no proof that the online pharmacy is following these regulations, especially since temperature can vary as products are shipped through the mail. Also, because most animal health care companies do not sell to online pharmacies, they will not guarantee medications purchased thru those pharmacies. At least one prominent online pharmacy will not disclose where their products come from, meaning that they could be made to the regulations of a country other than the United States or could be coming from the gray market. As you can imagine, it is easy to get false information from sites like this.
There are a number of credible sites available to pet owners that provide helpful information on a variety of topics. American Animal Hospital Association (www.healthypet.com), American Veterinary Medical Association (www.avma.org), Iowa Veterinary Medical Association (www.iowavma.org), Pfizer Animal Health (www.pfizerah.com), Merck (www.merckvetmanual.com), and Bayer Health Care (www.petparents.com) are just a few animal health companies and organizations that have pet care libraries available. Veterinary Hospitals may also have websites that provide useful information as well as features that help make your pet’s health care more convenient, such as online scheduling and links to current issues. Our website, www.TaylorVet.com, provides our clients with a variety of current pet health topics, links to other useful sources, online scheduling, prescription refill requests, behavior forum, links to past “Pet Talk” articles and many other great features. Google your veterinarian today!
Sam Dugan, Accounting Intern - written in 2008

Bogey Wyborney - Pet of the Month - April 2010

2010-04-01T13:30:00.000-07:00

Bogey was a stray who arrived in the coldest part of winter in early 2009. It had been below zero for days and Bogey was yowling from beneath my car, eager for food, milk and attention. When he squeezed out from beneath my car, he was drooling and so bloated I thought it was a pregnant cat. I took him to see Dr. Smith expecting that he was too sick to treat, but to my surprise, every test came back negative. The good news that he was not suffering from anything untreatable meant Bogey could join our household. Unfortunately this was far from the last word on his health concerns. He suffers from a rare gum disease that caused him to lose all his teeth. He had frost bite which claimed both ear tips, hair and whisker loss, a heart murmur, a benign (non-cancerous) tumor in his ear, and diabetes. His whiskers (when he had some) and his fur are brittle and sharp like porcupine quills. In spite of all his troubles, he is a very happy cat and very thankful to be inside, warm and well-taken care of. He doesn't even mind his insulin shots!

An Itchy Dog May Mean Allergies...

2010-03-29T12:53:00.000-07:00

Just like people, dogs may have allergies to trees, grasses, weeds, molds, dust, and many other

Image via Wikipedia - House Dust Mite

Image via Wikipedia - dog's allergy skin test

things. Allergies can present seasonally, Spring and Fall, or year-round depending on the allergen. While a few dogs show the typical runny eyes, runny nose, and sneezing like a person with “hay fever,” most dogs will just itch. The dog may rub its face and ears, lick its feet or groin area, or scratch its armpits. Allergies are common in all breeds of dogs and usually manifest themselves when a dog is between one and three years of age. Diagnosis is based on the presence of clinical signs and by ruling out other causes of itching. There are two types of allergy testing that also may be used for diagnosis. The traditional allergy test is called an intra-dermal test and is done by injecting small amounts of allergens into the skin and observing for reactions. The second test uses a blood sample to detect the presence of immune cells against specific allergens. Once diagnosed, allergies can be treated a number of ways. Antihistamines and corticosteroids can be used to relieve itching, but do not solve the underlying allergy. Medicated shampoos and certain omega fatty acids may also help to control clinical signs. “Allergy injections” are based on allergy testing results and can be given at specific intervals in an attempt at desensitization. Desensitization is designed to reduce or eliminate the body’s response to an allergen and may provide a “cure” for your dog’s allergies. If your dog seems a little more “itchy” than usual, help may be available. Talk to your veterinarian today.
~Chad Smith, D.V.M.

Think Spring, Think Parasite Protection

2010-03-25T12:26:00.000-07:00

As we begin to see the light at end of the long tunnel of winter lots of
sleeping creatures awake. Many of these creatures are very tiny and are
just waiting to hitch a ride on or in your pet’s body for a nice summer
vacation. Of course, we are reminding you about pet parasites. Now is the
time of year to start thinking about them and how you will best protect your
pet and your home against these little freeloaders.
There are three classes of parasites we have to address each year.
Those parasites that live on your pet are called ectoparasites. Those that
live inside your pet are called endoparasites. The endoparasites are broken
down into two groups; some actually live in the blood and some that live in
the intestinal tract.
Your veterinarian can help you detect or test for each type of
parasite. The parasites on the skin can be found during a physical exam.
The doctor may just comb through your pet thoroughly to find them, may swab the ears or may need to do what is called a skin scraping to find them. Intestinal parasites are detected by evaluating a stool sample for the worm eggs or the actual worm may be seen on the stool or around the anal area.
Parasites in the blood such as heartworm are found by testing a blood
sample.
Preventing parasites from hitching a ride on your pet and into your home has never been easier. The veterinary products used today do a very thorough job of protecting your pet and are easy to use. The days of baths and dips and fogging your home are all but gone except in very extreme cases. Protecting your pet and preventing a big infestation can be as easy as a once a month tablet or pouring a few drops of liquid on the skin once a month. The important thing is to find a quality veterinary product and to follow through with your veterinarian’s instructions carefully to achieve maximum protection. Don’t be fooled by imitation discount products, as you
are guaranteed to regret using them by August!
If you have questions, just call your veterinarian.
Elizabeth Bixby, DVM

When a Dog Becomes a Scaredy Cat

2010-03-18T14:59:00.000-07:00

When a Dog Becomes a Scaredy Cat

Image via Wikipedia

If your dog dives under the bed, crawls into the bathtub, or refuses to leave your side when a storm approaches, there is a reason. Storm phobias are one of the most common behavioral problems dog owners face. Some owners are willing to simply put up with symptoms like hiding, trembling, whining, drooling, and pacing, but in more severe cases, panicked dogs may chew furniture, tear drapes, and even break windows during a thunderstorm. In either case, the behaviors displayed are signs of a terrified, unhappy dog.

Behaviorists are not yet sure what part of the storm frightens dogs the most. It may be that they are reacting to lightning flashes, the sound of thunder, wind blowing around the house, or the sound of rain on the roof. Some dogs even start to pace and whine half an hour or more before a storm. They may be acting in response to a rapidly falling barometric pressure or the electrical charge of the air.

An article in the July/August 2001 issue of the Journal of the American Animal Hospital Association describes an Internet survey of the owners of storm-phobic dogs. The authors discovered that some breeds may be predisposed to a fear of storms. Herding dogs, such as collies and German shepherds, and hounds, such as beagles and basset hounds, seem to be more likely to develop a storm phobia than other dogs. The phobia is also common in sporting and working breeds. The study also showed that rescued dogs (dogs adopted from shelters or rescue organizations) may also be more likely to develop storm phobias.

The first step in helping your dog overcome a storm phobia is to talk to your veterinarian. He or she can help you develop a program to gradually retrain your dog by using the behavior modification techniques of desensitization and counter conditioning. These techniques work by exposing the storm-phobic dog to some gentle reminders of a thunderstorm, such as a very soft tape recording of thunder or a flashing light, and then rewarding the dog with lots of treats, attention, and other positive reinforcement only if there's no evidence of anxiety. Over time, the intensity of the stimulus is increased, and it is important to remember that only calm behavior is rewarded. You should get professional guidance, either from a veterinarian or a veterinary behavior specialist, before you begin this process as introducing frightening stimuli too quickly or not recognizing fear in your dog could make the phobia worse.

If behavior modification alone doesn't solve the problem, there are some medications that can help. Your veterinarian can prescribe one of several anti-anxiety or antidepressant medications to help your dog remain calm during storms. It is also beneficial to have a “safe place” for your dog to retreat to when the weather gets scary. This could be a crate or a certain room in the house where your dog feels protected.

The most important thing to remember is to treat your dog gently and kindly when he is afraid. Don't cuddle and reassure him though, because that will reward his “panicked” behavior, but definitely don't punish him for it either. Instead, just be calm and provide him with a safe, familiar place where he can feel secure and ride out the storm.

Chad Smith, D.V.M.

Taylor Veterinary Hospital's Legacy

2010-03-11T12:04:00.000-08:00

Did you know that Taylor Veterinary Hospital is Iowa's oldest, continuously operating small animal hospital? The building first was a printing company that was built in 1875 which Dr. Bacon renovated to become his home and office in 1917. He sold it to Dr. Lloyd Boxwell in 1943. Dr. Boxwell did some more renovations and in 1981 sold it to Dr. Jim Taylor. In 1991 Dr. Taylor and his wife, Pam did more major remodeling and currently the clinic has 6,000 square feet of space. There are 4 exam rooms, a large waiting and reception area, offices for the 3 doctors and office manager. The in house laboratory, pharmacy and x-ray all help the doctors provide the best quality care for pets. There is also a treatment area, and a modern surgical suite which is used for almost any kind of surgery. They have large dog runs and an area for boarding cats and small dogs. There is even a tunnel that runs underground to connect different parts of the unique building. The upstairs holds an apartment, a large storage space and a room that is used for staff meetings. Taylor Veterinary Hospital loves its location in Downtown Cedar Falls and hopes that you will come and check us out!

Questions from the Exam Room

2010-03-05T13:33:00.000-08:00

"Aren't all pet foods with corn in them bad foods?"~ A client asked me, "aren't all pet foods with corn in them bad foods?" That got me to thinking how to discuss nutrition in an easy to understand, short answer. This is what I came up with...
Food is composed of five items: protein, fat, starch, vitamins, minerals and some water. Minerals, vitamins and starch are non-changeable - either you have them or you don't. All reputable foods have enough of these for your pet. Fat, with some minor variations, is just fat. Some foods have more of the special fats, such as fish oils. These special oils help the coat and control some types of inflammation, such as arthritis.
People seem to have more problems with understanding protein and what source is the best. American culture suggests that the more meat you eat the better off you are. The most important thing is to give food that matches the animal's needs. For instance, a cow should be fed mostly hay, as it is an herbivore. Lions, tigers and domestic cats are true carnivores and need mostly a meat diet. People, bears and dogs are omnivores as they an get their nutritional needs from many sources.
The problem is which protein source is the best. The answer lies in what makes up a protein. Protein is made up of building blocks called amino acids. There are 23 amino acids, eleven of these have to come from the diet and are called "essential" amino acids. The other twelve can be made by the body. So the question becomes "Are amino acids from meat protein better than the amino acids from plant protein?" The answer is a resounding "NO!" Ask any of your friends who are vegetarians if they get enough protein with the correct building blocks of amino acids. They do get a good diet. So does your pet when you feed a good food. So, to answer the opening question, dog foods with corn in them are not bad food, as long as they are a BALANCED diet.
Dr. T. James Taylor March 5, 2010

March 2010 Pet of the Month

2010-03-02T12:08:00.001-08:00

Ozzie Bartlett is the 7 year old Maltese dog of Luke and Becky Bartlett. He is named after Ozzie Smith of the St. Louis Cardinals which is Luke's favorite baseball team. Ozzie tells his people that he has to go outside by ringing a bell. In addition to being very smart, he has an amazing memory. His favorite time of the year is Christmas. When he sees the boxes of Christmas decorations come out, he immediately finds his stocking. He loves presents and loves to help everyone else open their presents. Ozzie is a great friend to Luke and Becky's two young sons and enjoys their attention. He also loves to chase their remote controlled car. He has been helped out a few times by the doctors at Taylor Vet when he has been sick. He is a very important part of the Bartlett family.

Questions from the Exam Room

2010-02-19T11:36:00.000-08:00

The other day a client asked me "Doesn't corn cause allergies?" So I got to thinking about the proper answer, so here it is. For a person, dog or cat to have allergies they have to have received from their parents the genetics that allow allergies to occur. Specifically they have to be able to produce an antibody in the class of "immunoglobulin E". If a body cannot produce this immunoglobulin, allergies cannot develop. So corn does not cause allergies by itself. The corn needs the help for the genetics of the body.
A protein is the molecule that the body's genetics react with to cause an allergy. A protein can come from almost anywhere. The house dust mites in your carpet are a common source of allergic itching. Ragweed gets many of us in the late summer. Tree or grass pollen is another common cause of allergic itch. BUT remember, if your body or your cat's body or your dog's body cannot produce those immunoglobulins (antibodies) then you cannot have allergies.
The above client's question should have been "What are common proteins that dogs or cats commonly react to and develop allergies"? In the case of food, wheat is one of the most common causes of food allergies with others on the list being corn, various meats, cow's milk, and even those unneeded dog biscuits I warn against to prevent excessive weight gain. Just remember, a food does not cause allergies. The body allows allergies to happen.
Dr. T. James Taylor February 19, 2010

Cats VS. Dogs...

2010-02-18T14:12:00.000-08:00

The age-old debate between cat owners and dog owners have some new research to back up their claims. A recent study done by Bristol University in Britian polled 2500 homes and found out that a significantly higher percentage of "cat households" had at least one family member who had a college degree. Other factors in the study such as income level didn't change the outcome.
On the other hand, a recent study done by the University of Texas shows that dog owners are more extroverted than cat owners. Over 4500 people were interviewed and of those 46 percent said they were "dog people". In this group, the subjects were 15 % more likely to be more outgoing and extroverted than the "cat group".
I guess the debate will continue on...

Celebrate Cedar Falls!

2010-02-16T12:06:00.000-08:00

We are excited to be a part of downtown Cedar Falls which was nominated as one of the Dozen Distinctive Destinations by the National Trust for Historic Preservation. This year they are offering to select the favorite by fan votes. We are asking all Cedar Falls fans to vote to help our amazing city rise to the top. Follow this link www.preservationnation.org/ddd to add your votes! Voting ends on February 28th. Vote EARLY and OFTEN!!!

Jazz...

2010-02-11T13:05:00.001-08:00

I don't like to begin our blogging experience with a sad post, but yesterday our clinic had to say goodbye to our in house pet, Jazz. She was our "ferocious watch cat" but really not so ferocious. She lived at the clinic and was loved by the staff and many clients. She was sometimes used to teach clients pet care and would cooperate with most things. Her presence will be missed by everyone who knew her.

Our First Blog!

2010-02-10T08:35:00.000-08:00

Welcome! I am excited to be starting a blog for Taylor Veterinary Hospital. We are located in beautiful downtown Cedar Falls, Iowa. We serve a variety of pets from the typical cats and dogs, to the more exotic birds, reptiles, and pocket pets. Our blog will be composed of a variety of subjects, and we are always looking for more ideas. Feel free to comment anytime to give us your ideas!

We always have a lot of things going on at the clinic. Check in at our website http://www.taylorvet.com/ anytime to see the latest news.