Pet Tales Spring Issue 2014

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MESSENGER  POST MEDIA MESSENGER

PetTales SPRING EDITION

Advertising supplement for March 20, 2014

 

2 PET TALES TALES • SPRING EDITION

ROCHESTER COMMUNITY ANIMAL CLINIC’S PROGRAMS provides assistance According to the ASPCA, it is impossible to determine how many stray dogs and cats live in the United States, but estimates for

 flea/mite/worm treatment. Rochester Community Animal Clinic also offers economical veterinary services for dogs and cats

cats alone up tothat 70 million. It’srange no secret pet overpopulation is a huge issue. And the Greater Rochester area isn’t immune to this problem.

with after-hours outpatient urgent care services and wellness care. “For various reasons, animals in our community may not be receiving the veterinary care they need,” Nancy Filiaci, associate veterinarian of Rochester Community Animal Clinic, said. “This clinic allows us to help educate area pet owners about the many benefits of preventative wellness care.”

Since it opened last July, Rochester Community Animal Clinic has been working to reduce the unwanted pet population by providing affordable surgical sterilization for pets whose owners live on a low income. During the first six months of operation, Rochester Community Animal Clinic performed more than 1,000

Routine wellness and non-critical urgent care is available on a walk-in basis to the entire community regardless of income level. The clinic also offers an array of wellness packages for puppies, kittens, dogs and cats. Walk-in wellness and non-critical urgent care is available: Monday 2:00-7:00 pm; Wednesday 3:00-8:00 pm; Friday 3:008:00 pm; and Saturday

surgeries. clinicsurgery offers spay and The neuter appointments to pet owners who meet certain eligibility requirements. Pet owners qualify for RCAC’s income-based spay and neuter procedures if: 1. Their adjusted gross income is $40,000 or less,  2. They are current college students,

noon-7:00 pm.

3. They are actively serving in the military,

Most pet owners want what is best for their pets and will provide the best care possible, regardless of income level. Rochester Community Animal Clinic offers pet owners the opportunity to provide care for 5. They are a recipient of any of the following programs: their pets that they might not otherwise be able to afford. For more   • New York State Temporar Temporaryy Assistance information about the services available at Rochester Community Animal Clinic or to schedule an appointment for a spay or neuter   • HEAP (Home Ener Energy gy Assistance Assistance Program) Program) surgery, please call 585-288-0600.   • Unemployment Unemployment Benefts Dr. Joanna Bender is the director of Rochester Community Animal Clinic.   • SSDI (So (Social cial Security Disability Ins Insurance) urance) Prior to that, she cared for pets at Bayview Animal Hospital since 2006,   • SSI (Supplemental Security In Income) come) and has been a veterinarian with Monroe Veterinary Associates since  Joanna Bender Bender,, DVM 1989. A native of Bloomfield, NJ, Dr. Bender attended Montclair State   • Veteran’s Retirement  Director University, where she received her Bachelor’s Degree in Biology with a   • Veteran’s Disabilit Disability  y  Rochester Community minor in Chemistry in 1984.She continued her veterinary education at Animal Clinic The clinic, located at 985 Bay Street, doesn’t just offer services for owned Purdue University School of Veterinary Medicine and was awarded her Monroe Veterinary Associates pets. Each week, spay and neuter surgery appointments are also available Doctorate of Veterinary Medicine in 1988. Following veterinary school, to feral cat caregivers and approved pet rescue/humane organizations. Dr. Bender completed a one-year small animal internship at Cornell Additionally, a “Friends of Ferals” clinic is held each month to help further address the University from 1988-1989. feline overpopulation problem in our area. During the th e clinics, 30-40 feral cats are spayed or Dr. Bender is deeply committed to helping all animals and she volunteers her time with local neutered. The cats also receive rabies and distemper vaccines, are ear-tipped and receive  spay/neuter clinics for for feral cats.

4. They are retired and collecting social security or

“Cats are rather delicate creatures and they are subject to a good many different ailments, but I have never heard of one who suffered from insomnia.”    —Joseph Wood 

 

PET TALES TALES • SPRING EDITION 3

SOME BUNNY’S hungry!

 A guide to pro proper per feeding feeding of your hoppy hoppy friend  lots of variety), but with these diets your rabbit will almost certainly only pick out and eat the fatty, less nutritious pieces. This results in an unbalanced diet that is too high in fat and calories for our rabbits, and too low in that essential fiber.

In veterinary school there was a phrase ph rase that was used many times in our “pocket pets” and exotic species classes: “Proper husbandry accounts for 90 percent of a (rabbit/guinea pig/turtle/etc.)’s good health.” Husbandry is a word that means the appropriate management and raising of animals—so essentially how they are fed, housed and cared for.

Just like us, when given the choice between wholesome food and junk food, a bunny will tend to go for the bad stuff, which is unhealthy. unh ealthy. It is up to us to make sure they have those uniform pellets so they don’t have the opportunity to eat only the “junk” food.

As a veterinarian who enjoys helping our smaller furry friends, especially rabbits, I can say without a doubt that this statement is true. Too many times I see rabbits brought into our hospital with health problems that were actually caused by their well-meaning, but poorly informed owners.

While this may sound boring to us, remember that it is our responsibility to take care of them properly. There will be plenty of opportunity to provide them with variety in the next section! A rabbit should only be fed between 1/8 and 1/4 cup of pellets a day, depending on their size. Overfeeding pellets can lead to a lack of appetite for the essential Timothy hay that rabbits so desperately need, and is almost ALWAYS the

Unfortunately, there is too much inaccurate information being found on the internet, at pet stores and from others who have never learned the proper way to care for rabbits. The most common mistake that is made is feeding an unsuitable diet, which can easily lead to health problems such as overgrown teeth, obesity and gastrointestinal disease.

reason hay. for a rabbit not showing interest in their

The following list is a detailed description of what to feed your family rabbit to ensure she has a well-balanced, satisfying diet and in turn a long and happy life!

In addition to hay and pellets, all rabbits should be offered a variety of vegetables and some fruits f ruits on a daily basis.

Vegetables/Fruits

Leafy greens are the best choice, as they are very nutritious and provide for extra water intake. You can provide one packed cup of fresh, washed greens for every two pounds of body weight per day. Examples include romaine, escarole, red and green lettuce, herbs and dandelion greens and flowers from outside.

Hay The single most important part of a rabbit’s diet is Timothy hay. Rabbits are so efficient at processing their food that they can easily survive on this hay alone, although we enjoy supplementing with other food items for more balance and variety.

You may also offer a total of one tablespoon per two pounds of body weight per day of other types of veggies or fruits, such as carrots, squash, tomatoes, apples, pears, peaches or berries.

The biggest feeding error we see owners making with their rabbits is not providing any (or not providing enough) Timothy hay. This hay should ALWAYS be provided to rabbits—they should have access to it at all times and it should comprise the majority of their diet. It can be offered in a trough hung from the side of the cage (this keeps it up off of the floor where things can sometimes get messy), inside of boxes, wicker baskets, paper towel rolls within the cage or just piled in clumps around their habitat. Rabbits were made for foraging—in the wild they would be spending hours a day searching for nutritious food to eat, so they will appreciate as many challenges that you can provide them by hiding their food in different places!

Make sure to stay away from starchy foods such as corn, beans and potatoes (which can cause stomach upset) and cereal products such

Sarah Gebbie, DVM

as bread, crackers or cookies (which will cause obesity and stool problems). Unused veggies from your fridge, peels and vegetable tops from appropriate foods are a welcome treat and need not be discarded. In general, offering commercial treats such as “yogurt drops” is not recommended as they are often full of sugar and lack nutrition.

East River Veterinary Hospital Monroe Veterinary Associates

Timothy hay serves the very important purpose of helping to keep your rabbit’s evergrowing teeth short and in good working order, as well as providing the essential fiber that your rabbit’s gastrointestinal tract needs to keep moving! Always make sure the hay is “Timothy” hay and not “Alfalfa” hay, which has too much calcium for a rabbit’s system. So remember, hay, hay, HAY!

Pellets The second biggest diet-related mistake we see being made with bunnies is not providing them with the correct type and amount of pellets. Rabbits should only be fed a uniformly pelleted diet—one in which all of the food pieces look exactly the same (usually small cylindrical pellets). Regrettably, ther theree are many mixed seed and pellet pellet diets on the market for rabbits that look much more interesting to the human eye (colorful and with

Rabbits can be a wonderful choice of pet for your family. They are gentle creatures, entertaining to observe and interact with, and are quite easy to care for and there really is nothing cuter than watching a bunny munching away at something he loves! All that is needed is th thee knowledge of their proper husbandry to provide them with a healthy and fulfilling life in your home.

Dr. Gebbie is an associate veterinarian at East River Veterinary Hospital, where she has worked  since 2012. Dr. Gebbie completed her undergraduate undergraduate education in 2002 at the University of California, Los Angeles and received her Bachelor’s Degree in Ecology, Behavior and Evolution, with a minor in Classical Civilization. She went on to attend the University of Minnesota College of Veterinary Medicine and was awarded her Doctorate of Veterinary Medicine in  2006. She enjoys working with more species than cats and dogs; she regularly sees exotic and pocket pets, including rabbits, ferrets, chinchillas, guinea pigs and rodents. Outside the hospital, Dr. Gebbie can most often be found spending time with her husband, Stephen, her cats, Harry and Weasley Weasley,, and her dog, Sheba.

 

4 PET TALES TALES • SPRING EDITION

Learn what you can do to HELP PREVENT DOG BITES

Your veterinarian veterinarian can help to guide you regarding proper training, recommend behaviorists and rule out health concerns that may lead to aggression. He or she may also discuss if any medications could be helpful for an anxious pet. Remember that medication alone can never eliminate a behavioral problem and should always be used in conjunction with proper training and exercise.

According to the Centers for Disease Control, 4.7 million people are bitten by dogs each year in the US. And contrary to popular belief, they aren’t all postal workers. The majority of severe dog bite victims are children. Learn what you can do to help prevent dog bites from happening.

Start early

If someone is bitten

If you are looking for a new puppy or dog, make sure that you are familiar with the breed characteristics. High-energy breeds may not make ideal pets for f or a busy family.

Contact a medical professional for any animals and people involved. Rabies status of the animal must be verified and in some cases, the New York State Health Department may be

Often, dogs that do not get enough exercise or attention develop anxiety which can lead to other behavioral issues. No matter how experienced the pet owner, puppy classes are a great way to get the family involved in training and can help socialize your new dog or puppy.

Kirsten Mueller Penfield Veterinary Hospital Monroe Veterinary Associates

Proper socialization

contacted. Youronveterinarian or medical doctor can help guide you depending the situation. For additional resources:

http://apdt.com/petowners/tr http://apdt.com/ petowners/training-and-behavior/dog-bite aining-and-behavior/dog-bite- prevention/   prevention/ 

Whether you are starting with a younger dog or have adopted an older one, it is important to be cautious when socializing your new pet. Bites often occur when a pet is fearful. Owners should be aware of their dog’s body language when around new people and other pets.

https://www.avma.org/public/Page https://www.avma.o rg/public/Pages/Dog-Bite-Pr s/Dog-Bite-Prevention.aspx  evention.aspx 

A behaviorist can help to recognize signs of fear or stress and avoid situations that may exacerbate aggressive behavior.

Before joining Penfield Veterinary Hospital in July 2011, Dr. Kirsten Mueller worked as an Associate Veterinarian for East River Veterinary Hospital and Greece Animal Hospital. She has worked with practices in the Monroe Veterinary Associates family of veterinary hospitals since 2008. A native of Pittsford, New York, Dr. Mueller attended Syracuse University for her undergraduate studies and graduated in 2003 with a Bachelor of Science in Environmental and Forest Biology. In 2004, she enrolled at Ross University’s School of Veterinary Medicine where she earned her Doctorate of Veterinary Medicine in 2008. Her areas of particular professional interest include exotic animals and internal i nternal medicine.

It is important to address these issues as early as possible to avoid problems. The more your dog experiences fear, the more ingrained the behavior becomes.

Avoid high-risk situations Talk to your children about approaching ANY dog at the right and wrong time. Don’t leave young children alone with dogs. Even a familiar family dog can bite in the wrong situations. Talk to your veterinarian

http://www.aspca.org/pet-care/do http://www.aspca.or g/pet-care/dog-care/dog-bite g-care/dog-bite-prevention -prevention http://www.cdc.gov/homeandre http://www.cdc.go v/homeandrecreationalsafety/do creationalsafety/dog-bites/index.html  g-bites/index.html 

 

PET TALES TALES • SPRING EDITION 5

FIRST AID for your four-legged friends Attending to sickness and injury in our pets can be a stressful ordeal. Here are some basic guidelines for first aid. Remember that these initial

Always approach injured animals with caution, keeping in mind that even gentle and well-behaved animals can be dangerous when they are in

steps are NOT a substitute for veterinary care. Always call your veterinarian if you have questions or concerns.

pain. If you can do so safely, cover large wounds with a clean towel or cloth until you arrive at your veterinarian’s office.

Vomiting and diarrhea

Apply pressure to the wound if there is a large amount of bleeding. Tourniquets are not recommended.

Gastrointestinal upset can occur for a variety of reasons, ranging from simple dietary indiscretion to medical emergencies such as a foreign body obstruction or severe metabolic disease.

Seizures To avoid injury, do not attempt to restrain or soothe a pet during a seizure episode. If possible, shield them from objects and uneven surfaces.

If your pet develops vomiting or diarrhea, withhold food (not water) for 8-12 hours and then offer a small amount of bland food.

Seek prompt care if your pet has more than one seizure in a 24-hour period, or any seizure lasting longer than five minutes.

If he or she is able to keep that down, you can continue offering the bland diet in small frequent meals.

Difficulty breathing

To make a homemade bland diet, mix boiled meat (e.g. lean ground beef, chicken or turkey) with cooked rice.

Signs of difficulty breathing include fast/shallow breaths, abdominal effort, open-mouth breathing (especially in cats) and pale or blue gums.

Seek veterinary care if the vomiting and diarrhea persist, become profuse or if your pet becomes weak and lethargic.

If your pet is having trouble breathing, try to keep them as calm as possible and bring them directly to your veterinarian or the nearest emergency clinic.

Toxin Toxin exposu exposure re If you suspect that your pet ingested a toxic substance, contact your veterinarian or a poison control center immediately. Recommended resources include ASPCA Animal Poison Poison Control (888-426-4435, http:// www.aspca.org/pet-care/animal-poison-control) and the Pet Poison Helpline (800-213-6680, http://www.petpoisonhelpline.com).

Trauma and wounds

Cecilia Murch, DVM

Traumatic Trauma tic injuries often cause more damage than what is visible on the

VSES

surface. Your veterinarian will beofable to and advise you ontreatment. what steps are needed to determine the extent injury provide

Monroe Veterinary Associates

Dr. Murch grew up in Cincinnati, Ohio and attended Denison University,  graduating valedictorian with a major in Biology. Biology. She then went to Tufts University,, Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine, graduating in 2013. University Her professional interests include internal medicine, emergency medicine, and public health (in par ticular, preventative medicine, medicine, zoonotic diseases, and international veterinary medicine). She shares her home with two domestic short hairs, Rupert and Wellington.

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Serve up your small pet’s favorite timothy hay salads mixed with tasty fruits and veggies! Add variety with hearty, healthy ready-to-eat salads in an edible, woven grass bowl provide essential roughage to help support healthy digestive systems. Original salad bowl blends timothy hay, dried apples and dried cranberries. Veggie salad bowl blends timothy hay, carrots and broccoli. Ideal for rabbits, guinea pigs, mice, rats, hamsters, chinchillas, and other small pets. Both salads feature dehydrated fruit or vegetable pieces conveniently packaged in a sealed pouch along with an edible, refillable timothy hay bowl. Fun, mess-free way to offer roughage to your small pet. 3.5 oz. - 5” diameter diameter.. $3.99 each at www.drsfostersmith.com

 

6 PET TALES TALES • SPRING EDITION

FIRST AID KIT RECORDS AND REFERENCES Material

Indications for use

Instructions Instructio ns

Notes and precautions

Veterinary contact information 

Contact your vet if you have any medical concerns, or if you are unsure whether your pet needs to be seen on an

Keep phone numbers and addresses on hand for your primary care veterinarian as well as the nearest emergency

Keep in mind that your veterinary office may refer you to a poison control hotline for specific exposures

emergency basis

clinic(s)

(see below)

Poison control contact information

Contact your veterinarian and/or a poison control hotline if your pet has a witnessed or suspected toxin exposure

ASPCA poison control: (888) 426-4435 Pet poison helpline: (800) 213-6680

Fees apply when using poison control services

Medical records

This is helpful information for your veterinarian during routine visits as well as trips to the emergency clinic

Keep a file of your pet’s medical records (including vaccination and medication history) in an easily accessible location

In the event of a medical emergency, don’t worry about collecting records— seeking prompt care takes priority!

SUPPLIES Material

Indicationss for use Indication

Instructions Instruct ions

Notes and precautions

Hydrogen peroxide (3%)

Hydrogen peroxide is used to induce vomiting in dogs (not c ats) after recent ingestion of specific toxins or foreign material

If your pet has ingested a potentially toxic substance or foreign material (e.g. cloth, toys), call your veterinarian to determine the best course of action for treatment. An oral dosing syringe or turkey baster may be helpful for administration

Do NOT use unless under direct instruction by a veterinary professional —certain types of toxins or foreign material can cause more harm if vomiting is induced. Peroxide can irritate the lining of the GI tract

Dawn dish soap or baby shampoo

Bathing is indicated for exposure to certain contact allergens or toxins absorbed through the skin

If your pet is having an adverse reaction to a substance with which she has come into contact, your vet may recommend bathing her with a mild soap or shampoo

Bathing may not be sufficient for severe reactions and/or exposure to highly toxic substances—contact your veterinarian to determine if further care is warranted

Benadryl (25 mg tablets)

Benadryl is used to treat allergic reactions - signs may include a sudden onset of itchiness, hives, swelling of the muzzle, lips and/or eyes

Administer according to your veterinarian’s instructions. Be sure to purchase the tablets with NO additives

Animals with allergic reactions may require injectable medications if signs are severe or do not respond to oral Benadryl

Pepcid (10 mg tablets, or 20 mg if pet weighs over 40 lbs.)

Pepcid (famotidine) is an antacid that is commonly used for GI upset, and is tolerated well in pets

Administer according to your veterinarian’s instructions

Animals with GI upset often require veterinary attention, especially if their signs are persistent or severe

Muzzle

A muzzle can help keep you and your pet safe when they are painful or panicked—even the most gentle animals can be dangerous to handle in these situations

Keep an appropriately sized muzzle on hand that you can use if needed. If you do not have a muzzle available, you can use stockings, a tie or a gauze roll

Do NOT place a muzzle on your animal if she is vomiting or has labored breathing

Towel or blanket

A clean towel or thick blanket can be helpful for restraining cats or small dogs when they are injured

Wrap the towel or blanket around your pet if you are having difficulty restraining them

Be sure that your pet is able to breathe comfortably (it’s nose/mouth should not be covered)

 “You really should advertise in the next issue of Pet Tales...”

It’s easy! Call 394.0770 today! 

 

PET TALES TALES • SPRING EDITION 7

MICROCHIPS: the only form of permanent pet identification A microchip is easily implanted and can be done on an out-patient bbasis. asis. At our hospital we frequently place microchips in puppies and kittens that are with us for their elective spay or neuter surgery.

In 1995, as a young veterinary student, I decided to bring our family cat, Ripley, back to school with me. Before heading out, I stopped at a friend’s house and Ripley accidently got out of the car. We searched neighborhood, butimmediately he was nowhere to the be found. I was hopeful; he was young, healthy and street smart and we were less than five miles from home. We put up signs, talked to neighbors, set up food and protection and contacted rescue groups, animal control and local shelters.

We strongly encourage microchips for all our patients: young and old, working dogs, indoor cats as well as cats that venture outdoors. I have personally placed microchips in pets ranging in age from five weeks to 16 years old.

Had I had known the grim statistics, I would not have been so optimistic. The reality is that less than two percent of cats and 20 percent of dogs are ever returned to their owners. Most of these have some type of identification; Ripley did not. He was never found.

The cost of a microchip can vary slightly depending on where you have it done and the brand used, but averaged over a 12 year life span, a microchip will cost you less than two cents a day. Just a couple of pennies will give you the peace of mind to know that your family friend has the best possible chance of being returned to you, should he or she be lost or stolen.

Every year in the United States, eight to 12 million animals enter the shelter system and approximately five to nine million are euthanized. A majority of these animals are strays—they belonged to someone. Most will never be reunited, simply due to the fact that they cannot be identified. Pet owners assume that a collar with tags is adequate identification, but collars are easily lost or removed. The only form of permanent identification we can provide for our pets is a microchip.

My own Ripley, didcollar not have microchip, and his cat, break-away did anothing to help us find him. For years I worried and wondered what became of my friend. My heart hopes that he was adopted by another family and lived out his life comfortably. I wish I knew then, what I know now. Ripley taught me a difficult lesson; all of my pets have been microchipped since then.

A microchip is approximately the size of a grain of rice that is injected beneath your pet’s skin.

Dr. Susan Hubbard is the director at Greece Animal Hospital and has an extensive history of caring for pets in the Greece area. Dr. Hubbard Hubbard started her animal care career at Stone Ridge Veterinary Hospital as a kennel worker and animal care assistant in 1986. A native of Rochester, Rochester, she continued working at  Stone Ridge during school breaks until 1994 and returned to the hospital as an associate veterinarian in 2002 before joining the Greece Animal Hospital in 2012. Her professional interests include dermatology dermatology,, canine reproduction reproduction and dentistry. She is a member of the Genessee Valley Veterinary Medical  Association and the American Veterinary Medical Association. Dr. Dr. Hubbard is

The microchip has a special, unique code that is registered to the owner. Microchips have no battery and are designed to last for the life of your pet. They require no maintenance, but it is important to keep your contact information current with the company’s database. All the microchip companies make this very easy to do by phone, mail or online. If your pet is found and scanned, this unique code is identified and the registry can be contacted to allow you to quickly reunite with your pet. The technology used in the microchips and scanners is utilized worldwide, so you can be comfortable traveling with your pet, even out of the country.

Susan Hubbard, DVM

also the care and treatment of puppies and guide dogs for Guiding Eyes active for theinBlind.

Greece Animal Hospital Monroe Veterinary Associates

Book ” “The Animal Book” by Steve Jenkins

A Collection of the Fastest, Fiercest,Toughest, Cleverest, Shyest — and Most Surprising — Animals on Earth. Animals smooth and spiky, fast and slow, hop and waddle through the two hundred plus pages of the Caldecott Honor artist Steve Jenkins’s most impressive nonfiction offering yet. Sections such as “Animal Senses,” “Animal Extremes,” and “The Story of Life” burst with fascinating fac ts and infographics that will have trivia buffs breathlessly asking, “Do you know a termite queen can produce up to 30,000 eggs a day?” Jenkins’s color-rich cut- and torn-paper artwork is as strikingly vivid as ever. Rounding out this bountiful browsers’ almanac of more than three hundred animals is a discussion of the artist’s bookmaking

process, an animal index, a glossary, and a bibliography. A bookshelf essential! Ages 6 to 10. $15.83 on amazon.com

 

8 PET TALES TALES • SPRING EDITION

Benny’s story  PROVIDED BY ROCHESTER HOPE FOR PETS

On May 13, 2012 Benny’s owners noticed he was in serious pain. He could barely walk or stand on his hind legs, but they didn’t know why. They immediately rushed him to the emergency hospital and it was discovered that he had suffered a spinal cord injury.

Benny went through months of rehab and acupuncture, and loved every minute of it. Therapy did help him regain feeling in his feet and he was able to wag his tail again. Benny’s family also purchased a cart for him so he could play in the backyard with the rest of their th eir gang.

After receiving heavy pain medication and a series of X-rays and MRIs, they learned his condition was inoperable and possibly fatal. His owners were told Benny might have a chance at surviving, but there was a chance he would never walk again. His owners elected to wait overnight, knowing Benny was being treated for pain and was comfortable. By the next morning the swelling had gone down and they realized that he would survive.

In mid-April 2013, tragedy struck Benny once again. He started to bring up a lot of water and foamy mucus. This went on for days. His breathing became heavily labored and he seemed very uncomfortable and lethargic. The doctors believed that Benny had developed a condition called megaesophagus, but they needed more tests to be sure. X-rays confirmed he had aspiration pneumonia from the fluids he brought up, and he did indeed have megaesophagus.

After a few months of rest, there were some major life changes for Benny; he was paralyzed, but no longer in pain. Benny’s family worried he might get depressed, but instead he thrived!

With an award from Rochester Hope for Pets, Benny’s family was able to afford the th e treatments he needed. Since then, he has celebrated his sixth birthday and shows sh ows no signs of slowing down. Go, Benny, go! 

 SAVE THE DATES!  We hope you’ll participate in any or all of the upcoming events for f or Rochester Hope for Pets. More information available at rochesterhopeforpets.org/activities.php rochesterhopeforpets.org/activities.php or call 585-271-2733 x89.

Saturday, April 26 Fourth Annual New-to-You New-to-Y ou Sale S ale  Cornell Cooperative Extension 249 Highland Avenue, Rochester

Established in 2008, Rochester Hope for Pets is a not-for profit organization funded by the generosity of private donors. Our mission is to improve the quality of life for  pets living in the Greater Rochester area, with our key objective being to provide cost-sharing awards to owners who have financial limitations but whose pets are in need of veterinary care. The organization also assists with continuing education for veterinary health teams and works to reduce Rochester’s feral cat population. For more information, visit www.RochesterHopeforPets.org or call (585) 271-2733 x89.

Saturday, May 17 Red Cross Bloodmobile  Veterinary Specialists & Emergency Service Parking Lot, 825 White Spruce Blvd. Saturday, June 14 Sixth Annual Dog Walk Lilac Arches in Highland Park (Highland Avenue between Goodman Street & South Avenue) Sunday, Sept. 14 Seventh Annual Golf Tournament Shadow Lake Golf & Racquet Club 1850 Five Mile Line Road, Penfield

Benefit book sales:  Local author and friend of Rochester Hope for Pets, Joanne Brokaw, has generously designated us to receive a portion of sales of her funny and heartwarming new book, What the Dog Said.  For more details visit  joannebrokaw.com/buy-the-book.html.  joannebrokaw.c om/buy-the-book.html.

Rochester Hope for Pets • 2816 Monroe Avenue • Rochester, NY 14618 • 585-271-2733 x89 • RochesterHopeF [email protected] [email protected] om

 

PET TALES TALES • SPRING EDITION 9

CANCER in cats and dogs Our animal companions can experience many of the same types of diseases that afflict people, including cancer. Cancer is a disease that occurs when the body’s normal cells malfunction and fail to turn off their replication cycles. These abnormal cells can gr grow ow anywhere in the body, including the skin, abdominal organs, lungs, brain and blood cells. The resulting group of cells can emerge as solid tissue masses (malignant tumors such as carcinomas or sarcomas) or as dispersed cancers like lymphoma and leukemia.

If you see any swelling on or under your pet’s skin, it’s best to have it looked at by your veterinarian. Your veterinarian can often distinguish between serious disease and benign growths with an examination and simple tests. Cancers that develop in internal organs can be harder to identify. Cancers in internal organs can cause signs of illness that can be very non-specific. Some of the more common signs of cancer can include:

There is no single description of what cancer looks like in our pets. The variability in the types of cancers and the organs in which they can grow means there is also a wide range of ways in which cancer can manifest.

• Vomiting and diarrhea

• Changes in appetite /weight loss • Changes in thirst or urination (including increased thirst or urination) • Weakness/lethargy  • Trouble breathing

Owners are often surprised when cancer is diagnosed in their pet because many

• Trouble walking • or Trouble urinating defecating

pets mayare actalso completely Many owners surprisedhealthy. that their pet with cancer can have normal blood or other test results.

• Changes in behavior  • Collapse

Animals have a tremendous ability to compensate for illness and hide their signs of disease. As a result, some signs of cancer occur very suddenly with animals already presenting in a critical state. Many of these patients have had cancer developing over weeks or even months, but have only recently become ill.

• Seizure

It is important to recognize that the signs of disease listed above are not specific to cancer. They can be seen with any disease process that occurs within internal organs. You shouldn’t panic when you see any of these signs, but you should have your animal evaluated by a veterinarian. Your veterinarian is trained to help evaluate illness and diagnose many types of disease.

Masses that grow on or under the skin or in lymph nodes near the body’s surface are typically seen or felt. These may be noted during routine interactions (playing/petting) with your pet or during a routine examination by your veterinarian. Not all swellings of (or under) the skin or lymph nodes are due to cancer. Non-cancerous growths such as benign cysts, fatty lumps, ‘skin tags’, inflammation and infection can also appear similar to a cancerous tumor. Some skin cancers can grow and shrink seemingly randomly, while others can appear in multiple spots simultaneously. Skin cancers can also look like non-healing sores.

Michael ACVIM Koch, VMD Diplomate (SAIM) Internal Medicine Department Veterinary Specialists of Rochester Monroe Veterinary Associates

Dr. Michael Koch is the Clinical Director of the Internal Medicine Department at Veterinary Specialists of Rochester Rochester.. He graduated from the University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine. He completed his residency at the Matthew J. Ryan Veterinary Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania where he received the Jules and Lucy Silver Animal Bedside  Manner Award. Award. Dr. Koch’s professional interests include endocrinology endocrinology,, nasal disease, gastrointestinal disease and immune mediated disease. Dr. Koch is a board certified member of the American College of Veterinary Internal Medicine. Michael and his wife, Lauren, have two cats: Pudding and Twizzler.

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Is your pup celebrating their birthday? Let them celebrate with their very own cake! This soft cake is a peanut butter carrot cake decorated with a hard yogurt coating. For larger parties you can order pupcakes to go with the custom cake that serves three. Each cake for dogs comes in a white cake box with bakery twine along with storage sheet explaining how to keep it and what to do with leftovers. Cake is 4.5” wide by 2.25” high. All natural ingredients. $30 at www.nipandbones.com

 

10 PET TALES • SPRING EDITION

Finding trustworthy pet behavior advice Pets are big business, so there are plenty of resources online. he problem for pet owners is figuring out who you can trust for good pet behavior advice. Many sites offer articles on pet issues, but a couple of animal welfare groups operate websites that let users submit questions, which animal behavior experts then answer. BY WYNNE EVERETT | MORE CONTENT NOW

The ASPCA, the well-known animal welfare agency that is the oldest such group in the Western Hemisphere, has a large and detailed website at

entertained.

ASPCA.org advice. that includes a feature that lets pet owners ask an expert for

for animal rescue groups and shelters, which often encounter stray pets with behavior problems.

The virtual pet behaviorist service (www.aspca.org/Pet-care/virtual-petbehaviorist) lets users ask about how to deal with pets that bark or meow too much or how to train animals an imals to stay off furniture, among other issues. The section also offers detailed articles about common pet problems, including why cats eat houseplants and how to read a dog’s body language. The site even has a section of information about horse behavior.

San Mateo County California’s Peninsula Humane Society and SPCA also offers online pet advice at peninsulahumanesociety.org.

The feature is popular with users, said ASPCA spokeswoman Kelly Krause. “The ASPCA virtual pet behaviorist has helped 2.7 million pet owners around the world,” Krause said. Some of the most common questions the association’s behaviorists address involve separation anxiety, house training and keeping a pet occupied or entertained. The experts have recently answered questions about how to prepare a cat for a new baby in the home and how to keep a horse

Along with helping pet owners, Krause said, the feature is a good resource

Users can submit questions through the website, or browse the archives of advice about the behavior of house pets, including separation anxiety, litter training, crate training and other common issues. The site even offers many of its pet advice articles in Spanish. Users can fill out a detailed request for pet behavior advice, which behaviorists will read and assess before responding. Experts stress that pet owners should also turn to their veterinarians for help. Many peculiar or sudden behavior issues can be symptoms of illness or injury that a vet should diagnose and treat.

“Te little furry buggers are just deep, deep wells you throw all your emotions into.”    —Bruce Schimmel 

 

PET TALES • SPRING EDITION 11

DISE ASE prevention LYME DISEASE provide afaster kill time and should be discussed with your veterinarian.

Lyme disease is caused by an organism (Borrelia burgdorferi) that is transmitted by ticks. Dogs that have a Lyme disease infection have very different symptoms

There are vaccinations available that are designed to help prevent transmission of the B. burgdorferi organism from the tick to the new host. These vaccines are most appropriate for pets that have not been exposed to the B. burgdorferi organism and do require annual boosters for continued immunity. The use of this vaccine for your pet is dependent on lifestyle and risk factors for exposure and should be discussed with your veterinarian.

than people do. People develop symptoms within a few weeks and these can include a rash, flu-like symptoms and joint pain. Dogs often will not begin to display symptoms for weeks or even months after infection. Symptoms may include hot and swollen joints, fever and swollen lymph nodes. Symptoms of dog Lyme disease rapidly respond to treatment with antibiotics. The common factor of both human and canine Lyme disease is the requirement of a tick biting and feeding to transmit the Lyme disease organism.

Ultimately, preventing ticks from feeding on your pets is the best prevention of Lyme disease transmission and is safe and effective for most of the pet population. Remember, if your pets are picking up ticks, you should carefully check yourself to make sure you have not picked up any ticks on your adventures with your pets.

The tickdeer thattick, spreads B. burgdorferi is the Ixodes scapularis. These ticks can be infected when they are young (larva, nymphs) or as adults when they feed on infected animals. If these infected ticks then feed on dogs or people they can transmit the organism that causes Lyme disease. Ticks feed on blood and must keep the blood liquid while feeding. This is accomplished by regurgitation of enzymes that prevent the blood from clotting. It is during this regurgitation process that the Lyme organism is transmitted to the new host. Transmission requires requires that the tick be attached and feeding for 48 hours. Tick control is an effective method of B. burgdorferi infection prevention. There are many products available that will kill the tick or cause it to drop off before the 48 hour time period. These products include liquid medications that you apply to your pets’ skin or collars that slowly release the medication over time. Newer preventative products often

See your veterinarian to discuss the risk of Lyme disease in your area, available options for tick control and specific recommendations for your pet.

Monica Bunkenburg, DVM Suburban Animal Hospital Monroe Veterinary Associates

Originally from Skaneateles, New York, Dr. Bunkenburg attended Arizona  State University, University, where where she received received her bachelor’s bachelor’s degree in agribusiness.  She then attended the Louisiana State University School of Veterinary Veterinary  Medicine, graduating in 2012. Her professiona professionall interests include exotic animal medicine and surgery surgery..  Although Although she has lived in Florida, Arizona and Louisiana, she is very happy to return to Upstate New York.

Good dog bucket

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Soggy doggy super shammy

Reward your bestie with this exclusive ecofriendly galvanized gift bucket personalized with their name. Irresistible, all-natural contents include a bag of gourmet cheese treats baked in the USA, a squeaky hemp fabric bone and a cotton Celtic knot rope pull-ball and a cotton rope bone. Plus, a set of biodegradable dog waste bags in a recycled-plastic case with refills. Sizes: S (with 7” hemp bone; 2.25” rope ball; 5.5” rope bone), L (11” hemp bone; 3.25” rope ball; 8.5” rope bone). Please specify up to 10 letters

Keep a soggy doggy super shammy at the back door this spring! Absorbs seven times its weight in water! Quick drying microfiber chenille. Odor free with convenient hand

and spaces. expressatdelivery. Small $49.95,Sorry, largeno$59.95 www. inthecompanyofdogs.com

pockets. Machine 31” wash and$19.95 dry. One size dries all! Measures x 14”. at www. thegrommet.com

 

12 PET TALES • SPRING EDITION

CAT TREATS economical, econom ical, easy and nu nutritious tritious Many families are struggling to find time

been more than 20 recalls by pet food manufacturers since January, 2013, according to the FDA. And with increased incidents of pet obesity, allergens and contaminants, knowing what’s in pet food - and where it’s made - is becoming increasingly important.

to sit down together for a meal these days so it may seem funny that more people are making time to bake treats for their pets. But pets are gaining status in the family hierarchy, hierarchy, according to a Harris Interactive study. In fact, more than 90 percent of pet owners say their pets are an official member of the family. Twenty-four percent say they frequently cook specifically for their pets.

“We want to ensure that our pets are getting the same level of food quality [that we are]. If a dog food is made in China, we don’t know for sure what standards are being met. I would not want my pet eating something that might make them sick,” states Ridsdale. [BPT]

Dedicated pet owners have been making treats for their furry buddies since the 1800s, according to Chef Noel Ridsdale, culinary academic director at The Art Institute of Tucson.

Chef Ridsdale’s homemade cat treats 1 cup buckwheat or oat our

He adds that in the last five to seven years, the number of people making pet treats has taken off. “There are many reasons for this, but I think it is the attitude that people have taken with their pets. It seems that over the past 20 years or so, pets have almost become another child in the house. So with this change in behavior toward our pets, it only makes sense that we would now want to feed them better.”

1/2 cup dried garbanzo beans,  ground into our  our 

Value - both in cost and better health

Preheat oven to 350 F. Grease a 13x9 pan with olive or canola oil. Cats can detect the taste of vegetable or corn oil, so do not use these.

1 teaspoon baking soda

1 teaspoon salt  1 egg 6 ounces tuna, salmon, or other meat  1/2 cup olive oil   1/2 cup water 

Chef Ridsdale states that making pet treats at home is both economical and healthy.

Combine dry ingredients in medium bowl.

“Recipes for these treats are not any different than food for their human counterparts. Most recipes include a protein, a vegetable and a bread. All of these ingredients are readily available and are inexpensive.”

Mix tuna, egg and oil together at medium speed. Slowly combine wet and dry ingredients.

Do-it-yourself recipes are available on reputable food databases including Allrecipes.com, food.com and AnimalPlanet.com—just be sure that the recipes have been tested by others prior to trying them on your pet. Chef Ridsdale cites additional, important reasons for making treats at home. There have

Add enough water to create a cake batter consistency. Spread batter in pan evenly and bake for 1 hour. Lower oven temperature temperature to 250° F and bake for 45-60 minutes more. Remove pan and slice into 1-inch squares but keep treats in the pan until ready to serve.

Pooch have you puzzled? Cat have you curious? Want answers to your questions? Email your questions to [email protected]!

 

PET TALES • SPRING EDITION 13

Prevent   Prevent Tick Diseases! ENGORGED DEER TICk 

 Tics are common common parasites that that can be found anywhere, from woods to urban pars.  They wait and then then lunge onto passe passersby. rsby.  Tics can transmit transmit Lyme d disease, isease, Ehrlich Ehrlichiosis iosis and Anaplasmosis. They can also cause anemia and other problems. Because Rochester’s weather is so unpredictable, year-round parasite prevention is recommended.

EMPTY DEER TICk 

In New Yor State in 2013, 1 out of 10 dogs tested positive for Lyme disease and 1 out of 20 dogs tested positive for Anaplasmosis.

In Monroe County, the percent of dogs who tested positive for Lyme disease more than doubled from 2011 to 2013.

 Ask your veterinarian veterinarian today about the best tick prevention for your pet!  *Statistics from the Companion Animal Parasite Council website Engorged tick image source: http://4photos.net/en/image:125-202904-engorged_deer_tick_images

 

14 PET TALES • SPRING EDITION

Portraits  of  Love 

Each week, Lollypop Farm receives letters and emails flled with happy endings for animals who have been adopted from our shelter. Pictures help to tell these wonderful stories.

RIPLEY was adopted by Colleen in 2012

MOLLY & LEO were adopted by Eileen in 2012

COCO was adopted by Michelle in 2013

 

PET TALES • SPRING EDITION 15 MESSENGER POST MEDIA

PetTales 73 Buffalo Street, Canandaigua, NY 14424 585.394.0770

SPEAK! We welcome our readers’ letters. Please write to: Pet Tales Tales c/o Darlyn Reddy 73 Buffalo Street, Canandaigua, Canandaigua, NY 14424 email: dreddy@messengerpo [email protected] stmedia.com Correspondence may be edited for length and clarity. Please include your name, address, daytime telephone, and e-mail address.

We provide kind, compassionate care, when you need it the most.

www.monroevets.com Thank you to Pet Tales’ major sponsor! Monroe Veterinary Associates was founded in 1969 as a single hospital and has grown to include 14 full-service veterinary hospitals, a 24-hour emergency and specialty practice, a house call service, a full-service reference laboratory and a rehabilitation center, all of which are located in or around Rochester. Monroe Veterinary Associates contributes actively to the community in a variety of ways. MVA provides financial support to the Humane Society at Lollypop Farm, Rochester Animal Services and the Seneca Park Zoo. MVA veterinarians and staff members volunteer countless hours toward helping animals in the community. For example, veterinarians donate their time to Friends of Ferals, which works to help decrease the feral cat population in the Rochester area. Also, MVA’s personnel are active in local educational initiatives, including classroom presentations, student shadow programs and student externships. Find out more about the many services that Monroe Veterinary Veterinary Associates offers or to find a location near you, visit monroevet monroevets.com. s.com. You can also follow us on Twitter @MonroeVets or like us on Facebook.

Monroe Veterinary Associates SUBURBAN FAIRVIEW DIREC TORY BUSINESS DIRECTOR Y VETERINARY ANIMAL HOSPITAL*

Full Service Veterinary Hospitals

ANIMAL HOSPITAL OF PITTSFORD* 2816 Monroe Avenue Rochester, NY 14618 585.271.7700 pittsfordvet.com BAYVIEW ANIMAL HOSPITAL  HOSPITAL  1217 Bay Road, Suite #1A Webster, NY 14580 585.671.3120 bayviewanimalhosp.com CANANDAIGUA VETERINARY HOSPITAL   HOSPITAL 4410 Lakeshore Drive Canandaigua, NY 14424 585.394.3340 canandaiguavet.com CATS S & CRI TTERS TTERS   CAT 23 Somerton Street Rochester, NY 14607 585.442.4373 catsandcritters.com COMPANION ANIMAL HOSPITAL* 2800 West Henrietta Road Rochester, NY 14623 585.424.2900 companionvethosp.com EAST RIVER VETERINARY HOSPITAL   HOSPITAL 5152 East River Road West Henrietta, NY 14586 585.334.3110 eastrivervet.com

HOSPITAL* 6735 Pittsford Palmyra Road Fairport, NY 14450 585.223.0940 fairviewvet.com

GREECE ANIMAL HOSPITAL  HOSPITAL  3180 Latta Road, Suite 800 Rochester, NY 14612 585.227.7100 greecenanimalhospital.com IRONDEQUOIT ANIMAL * 2150 Hudson HOSPITAL Avenue Rochester, NY 14617 585.266.8020 irondequoitanimalhospital.com PENFIELD VETERINARY HOSPITAL* 1672 Penfield Road Rochester, NY 14625 585.381.2441 penfieldvet.com

2495 East Henrietta Road Rochester, NY 14623 585.334.4230 suburbanvet.com VETERINARY HOUSECALL SERVICE OF ROCHESTER  ROCHESTER  2800 West Henrietta Road Rochester, NY 14623 585.264.0200 rochesterhousecallsvet.com VETERINARY SPECIALISTS OF ROCHESTER  ROCHESTER  825 White Spruce Blvd. Rochester, NY 14623 585.424.1260 vetspecialistsofrochester.com

24-Hour Emergency Care ANIMAL EMERGENCY SERVICE  SERVICE  825 White Spruce Blvd. Rochester, NY 14623 585.424.1277 animalemergencyservices.com

PERINTON VETERINARY HOSPITAL* 11 LaSalle Parkway

* Offers Boarding

Victor, NY 14564 585.248.5566 perintonvet.com STONE RIDGE VETERINARY HOSPITAL* 550 Center Place Drive Rochester, NY 14615 585.227.4990 stoneridgevethosp.com

All Monroe Veterinary Associates hospitals are on Facebook. Find and like us today!

 

16 PET TALES • SPRING EDITION

You provide food, shelter and plenty of love...

 Make sure sure you also provide provide the best health care. care.

monroevets.com

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