Featured Employee: Barb, Licensed Veterinary Technician

We are proud to highlight Barb, Licensed Veterinary Technician as our Featured Employee. 

Barbara is back at Edmonds Veterinary Hospital after a six year hiatus in hot, hot Arizona. She has been a Licensed Veterinary Technician since 2002 and has been in the animal field since the early 80’s. She has had the pleasure of working with exotics as well as with animal advocacy resues and the Woodland Park Zoo over the years. Barb shares her home with three mischievous four-legged kids-2 dogs, Jack and Josie and Bob Franklin, the coolest cat in the world!

Pet of the Month: Stretch

We are proud to honor Stretch as our December Pet of the Month! 

Below is what Stretch's owner Sue has to say about her feline friend! 

"Stretch appeared in our back yard about 14 years ago and we were unable to find his owner. He was extremely shy, so we had a difficult time trying to pet and feed him. It seemed like it was a couple of years before we could get him to come inside the house and then another year before he would sit with us on the couch. It took a lot of treats to convince him it was safe. He's really a sweet cat and enjoys sitting with us in the evening. He can still be a bit jumpy, especially around strangers. We have another cat, Shelly (a small longhair torty with an attitude), who showed up shortly before he came. They have a sort of love/hate relationship. Stretch has a good time teasing her. Since Stretch still likes to spend most of his time outdoors, we provided him with a safe place to take a nap — a 4 ft. x 4 ft. heated glass greenhouse filled with beds and perches. We're very lucky to have both of our cats and I think they're both pretty lucky they came to our house."

A Tail of Two Strays

This month we continue our Annual Food Drive, with a twist.  In our lobby you will find a Giving Tree that benefits Homeward Pets Adoption Center.  With Shelter Pets as our focus, we like to share two amazing stories of adopted homeless pets.

Maddie is a large mixed breed dog that was adopted through Edmonds Animal Control.  She was brought to Edmonds Vet to be euthanized because no one wanted her in her condition.  When she arrived on our doorstep, she had very little hair, bleeding skin, and the worst case of mange we’d seen in a very long time.  Dr. Remick simply could not euthanize her as she softly looked at him with those big brown doughy eyes. 

During that time it was discovered that she had, at some point, a broken leg that was never repaired correctly, along with many phobias-most notably bicycles and skateboards.  She had many foster homes that were simply wonderful with her.  She learned to trust a bit more, learned to respect people, walk on a leash and also learned a few tricks along the way.  Sadly, she has had many homes until 4 years ago when Dr. Remick’s daughter claimed her as her own…never to face adjusting to another home.  She is happy and a joy to be in the family.  While she still has some ‘issues’ she is ‘forever home’ and will never face displacement again.

Mollie is a Border Collie Mix.  She lives with Vickie and her husband and is forever home.  Mollie came to Vickie frightened, anxious and not socialized at the young age of 4 months.  Having been used to a perfect Golden Retriever, Vickie was not sure she was up to the task of this little “train wreck”.  Over the years, with much, much patience, love and positive training methods, Mollie has blossomed into a happy, confident and goofy dog.  She lover people and her cats and plays well with most dogs, yet cannot be trusted with some.  I took a long time to get to this point but she has taught Vickie so very much about behavior and how pet owners have to understand a dog’s world and how they have to learn to live in ours.  

Shelter and rescued dogs may come from homes where their circumstances are difficult at best.  Some lose their homes due to family circumstances.  Almost all are worthy of another chance.  Shelter dogs have a lot of love to share.  Many have to relearn that not all people are bad.  Most have huge hearts inside their tough exterior just begging for love.

Please consider adopting a shelter dog.  Consider helping shelter organizations provide for their charges.  In over 35 years of experience, the overpopulation continues despite the best efforts to raise awareness.

In closing, consider a quote with which Vickie ends all her emails:

“Shelter dogs aren’t broken.

They’ve simply experienced more life.

If they were human, we would call them wise.

They would be the ones with tales to tell, stories to write.

Do not pity a shelter dog.

Adopt one”

Pet of the Month: Ariel

Meet Ariel, the perfect cat.  Our instant bond began when we both laid eyes on each other on June 6^th, 2003 at the N.O.A.H. Center where I served as a volunteer.  Of all the wonderful felines to choose from, this very sweet and gentle little black domestic short-hair was “The One.”  After all these wonderful years together, it still boggles my mind that her original paperwork from the Everett Animal Control stated, “Did not want anymore.”  Ariel was our little gift of life and she was meant to be with us.

Early in 2013, Ariel was diagnosed with a slow-growing lymphoma in her small intestine.  With the help and guidance of her professional team at Edmonds Veterinary Hospital and AMC, Ariel is able to tolerate and maintain the wonderful quality of life that she is accustomed to.  From the initial diagnosis, our decision was whatever was going to be optimal for Ariel.  To this day, that continues to be our focus.  It is all about what is best for her, not what is best for us.  We believe that is the true meaning of love. 

Ariel’s life remains active and happy and we are making the most of every day.  There is no loss of love in our house.  I tell her every day that I love her as much as every piece of fur on her body.  Now THAT is a lot of love.  She has brought so much joy to us since that first day we brought her home.  We all acknowledge the fact that we are lucky to have each other and are grateful to be a family where generous exchanges of love are shared every day.  

TREATS at Edmonds Veterinary Hospital

Want to celebrate Turkey Day the right way? Just in time for the Holidays we've added some new tasty treats for dogs and cats! Try some of our Oven Baked Naturals Turkey and Cranberry treats or Pumpkin and Yam Veggie Chips for dogs. We also have Crunchy Creations Grain Free Chicken Treats for Cats!

Featured Employee: Becky

Becky has worked in the veterinary field since 2003 as a veterinary assistant. She has a wonderful black lab, Ellie, and an amazing cat, Charlotte, who love to snuggle. Becky has loved animals since she was a little girl and takes pride in helping them stay healthy. She is currently working on becoming a Licensed Veterinary Technician.

Pet of the Month: Cassie

We are proud to honor Cassie as our October Pet of the Month! Cassie is a four year old rescue puppy. Her mom is a Border Collie and we think her dad could possibly be a Golden Retriever. Cassie is very smart and enjoys working in rally obedience. She has competed 4 times, winning twice and picking up a 2nd and 4th place as well. Her favorite thing in life is playing with the other family dog Pepper. They are best friends.

What is a hotspot?

Question

My dog was recently diagnosed with a "hotspot." Can you tell me more about this skin condition?

Answer

“Hotspot” is a general term used to describe the angry reaction that your pet’s skin is displaying. It may also be referred to as “acute moist dermatitis.”
Hotspots have many causes, but are usually the result of self trauma and subsequent infection that occurs as your pet tries to relieve himself from a pain or itch. An underlying allergy is most often the cause of the pain or itch. Some breeds are more prone to seasonal allergies, so you may see hotspots at the same time each year.
There are three types of allergies that may lead to hotspots:

• Inhaled allergy (pollens, dust, molds)
• Insect allergy (fleas, bee sting, spider bite)
• Ingested allergy (food)

Please discuss treatment options, which may include thorough cleaning, antibiotics and anti-inflammatory agents, with your veterinarian.
For more information, see Library Articles Skin Problems in Pets, Allergies and Spring Allergies.

Originally published on Healthy Pet.

Stirlin's Forest G AKA "Tater Tot'

December 29th 1987- July 27 2013

Tater loved everyone. He was warm and friendly to everyone, especially women. I guess you could call him a lady's man! While he was part of an internationally-known Cairn Terrier Line, he was down to earth and more willing to live humbly with us.

The Tot was always game for walks, dinner guests and most of all, car travel in his car seat. He loved nothing more than stirring things up! While waiting in the ferry lines, he would watch passersby until they were passed him, then he would let him have it! Barking and wagging, I know he was amused.

They were terrified!

He was an instigator. He would run the fences in the yard with a low, barely audible bark/growl that would set every dog within our neighborhood into orbit barking!

I can't think of a better companion than a Cairn, Tater in particular. We downsized from Airedales and Hans was skeptical. Our friends called them rat dogs. Everyone immediately felt the big dog presence in the Tot. He was truly a big dog, with a big heart inside a 14 pound Cairn. He was tough until the end. His body would not cooperate with that big heart and drive he had to live on, so we said goodbye to him recently. It was respectful and dignified goodbye, facilitated by some great care he received from the clinic. For that we are not appreciative.

Employee Highlight: Katee

Katee is a Licensed Veterinary Technician. She graduated and obtained her license in 2011. She lives with 2 senior kitties named Shala and Phoenix that she loves and treats as children.

ASPCA Guide to Pet-Safe Gardening

ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center (APCC) experts field tens of thousands of calls each year involving animal companions who’ve had potentially hazardous contact with insecticides, weed killers and pet-toxic plants.  

"Keeping animals safe from accidental poisonings should not end once you've stepped outside," says Dana Farbman, APCC pet poison prevention expert. "Protecting your pet from potential hazards in your yard is just as critical."

While gardens and yards are lovely for relaxing, they can also prove dangerous for our animal companions.
Our experts recommend you watch out for the following:
Poisonous Plants
When designing and planting your green space, it's a good idea to keep in mind that many popular outdoor plants—including sago palm, rhododendron and azalea—are toxic to cats and dogs. Sago palm and other members of the Cycad family as well as mushrooms can cause liver failure, while rhododendron, azalea, lily of the valley, oleander, rosebay, foxglove and kalanchoe all affect the heart. Please visit our full list—and pics!—of toxic and non-toxic plants for your garden. 
Fertilizer
Just like you, plants need food. But pet parents, take care—the fertilizer that keeps our plants healthy and green can wreak havoc on the digestive tracts of our furry friends. Ingesting large amounts of fertilizer can give your pet a good case of stomach upset and may result in life-threatening gastrointestinal obstruction. Be sure to follow instructions carefully and observe the appropriate waiting period before letting your pet run wild outside. 
Cocoa Mulch
Many gardeners use cocoa bean shells—a by-product of chocolate production—in landscaping. Popular for its attractive odor and color, cocoa mulch also attracts dogs with its sweet smell, and like chocolate, it can pose problems for our canine companions. Depending on the amount involved, ingestion of cocoa mulch can cause a range of clinical signs, from vomiting, diarrhea and muscle tremors to elevated heart rate, hyperactivity and even seizures. Consider using a less-toxic alternative, such as shredded pine, cedar or hemlock bark, but always supervise curious canines in yards where mulch is spread.
Insecticides
Like fertilizer, herbicides, insecticide baits, sprays and granules are often necessary to keep our gardens healthy, but their ingredients aren't meant for four-legged consumption. The most dangerous forms of pesticides include snail bait with metaldehyde, fly bait with methomyl, systemic insecticides with the ingredients disyston or disulfoton, mole or gopher bait with zinc phosphide and most forms of rat poisons. Always store pesticides in inaccessible areas—and read the manufacturer's label carefully for proper usage and storage. 
Compost
You're doing the right thing for your garden and Mother Earth—you're composting! Food and garden waste make excellent additions to garden soil, but depending on what you're tossing in the compost bin, they can also pose problems for our pets. Coffee, moldy food and certain types of fruit and vegetables are toxic to dogs and cats, so read up on people foods to avoid feeding your pet.
Fleas and Ticks
Since fleas and ticks lurk in tall brush and grasses, it's important to keep those lawns mowed and trim. Fleas can cause excessive scratching, hair loss, scabs, hot spots and tapeworms as well as anemia from blood loss in both cats and dogs. Ticks can cause similar effects and lead to a variety of complications from tick-borne diseases such as Lyme disease, Rocky Mountain spotted fever and Babesia.
Garden Tools
Unattended garden tools may seem like no big deal, but rakes, tillers, hoes and trowels can be hazardous to pets and cause trauma to paws, noses or other parts of a curious pet's body. Rusty, sharp tools caked in dirt may also pose a risk for tetanus if they puncture skin. While cats don't appear to be as susceptible as dogs to tetanus, care should be taken by storing all unused tools in a safe area, not haphazardly strewn on the ground.
Allergy-Causing Flora
Ah-choo! Like their sneezy human counterparts, pets have allergies to foods, dust and even plants. Allergic reactions in dogs and cats can even cause life-threatening anaphylactic shock if the reaction is severe. If you do suspect your pet has an allergy, please don't give him any medication that isn't prescribed by a veterinarian. It's also smart to keep your pet out of other people's yards, especially if you're unsure of what kinds of plants or flowers lurk there. Keeping your pet off the lawn of others will make for healthy pets and happy neighbors.

Originally published by the ASPCA.

Pet of the Month: Zelda

“Do you hunt that dog?”  That’s the question we get asked a lot when some folks meet Zelda.  Although she did attend a couple hunt test trials we never followed up on that part of her outdoor activities, instead she seemed to take a liking to agility.  Zelda ran agility for 5 years and competed in many trials and even won quite a few ribbons in her class.  She competed in just one conformation trial but she got first place.  Of course she was the only dog in her category so we have to take that into consideration.  These days Zelda, now almost 12,  is content to sniff around Yost Park and jump in the water at dog beach in Edmonds during low tide. But mostly she likes to sit in her favorite chair at home and bark at the other dogs as they walk by.

Pet of the Month: Gracie

We are proud to honor Gracie as our June Pet of the Month! 

Gracie was born in Georgia in 1998 and moved with her family to the Pacific Northwest when she was nearly two years old. 

She lived in Vancouver BC for a while and enjoyed walking in Stanley Park, greeting everyone.  She loved to sit in her window looking out over Hornby Street and many interested tourists stopped to take her picture.  Grace has lived in Edmonds for over 12 years now and experienced that big earthquake.  Very unsettling!  She has been boating for these 12 years now and while not totally enjoying the engine noise and the car ride to and from the marina, she has settled into a comfortable routine.

She has trained her family well and gets all the treats she wants and the most comfy spots to rest.  She often walks (on her leash) to visit her docs at Edmonds Veterinary Hospital

Pet Appreciation Week

This week is Pet Appreciation Week, a time set aside for pet owners to show their pets how much they mean to them. Are you doing anything special for your pet this week?

Memorial Day

Monday is Memorial Day, a time to remember the men and women who dedicated their lives to our nation’s freedom.

Pets of the Month: Zoe and Daisy May

Meet Zoe & Daisy May! 

Zoe Blossom is a Havanese and Daisy May is a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel.

They are sweet and sometimes mischievous especially if it has anything to do with food. Daisy is the princess of the family and Zoe pretty much rules the house. Zoe’s favorite sport is chasing and corralling a soccer ball and Daisy just sits and looks pretty! They love people and give out many kisses as we go for walks and meet our neighbors and their dogs. Its springtime so Daisy has already captured her first fly and potato bug, they were delicious. While Zoe busies herself smelling and licking the fresh green grass.

Team Member of the Month: Vickie

Vickie has been in the veterinary field for over 30 years, 9 as a Licensed Veterinary Technician. She has been with Edmonds Veterinary Hospital since 1978. Her passions in veterinary medicine are nutrition and behavior. She loves to learn new things. Vickie has three cats and 1 crazy Border Collie cross. When not at work, Vickie enjoys gardening, working out, listening to music and reading. You can find Vickie at our reception desk and she also works on the Leadership Team with the doctors and management.

It's National Pet First Aid Awareness Month

Brushing Your Pet’s Teeth

Equally important to annual dental exams at your veterinarian’s practice is home dental care, including brushing your pet’s teeth every day if possible. AAHA recommends a technique for both younger and older animals, although it’s easier to start brushing when your pet is young.

To introduce a fearful cat or dog to the idea of dental care, start slowly and gradually. Dip a finger into beef bouillon (for dogs) or tuna water (for cats) and gently rub along your pet’s gums and teeth. The most important area to focus on is the gum line (the crevice where the gums meet the teeth), where bacteria and food mix to form plaque. Focusing on the gum line, start at the front of the mouth, then move to the back upper and lower teeth and gum areas. Once your pet is okay with a little bit of touching, gradually introduce gauze over your finger and rub the teeth and gums in a circular fashion.

When your four-legged friend can handle the gauze, try brushing with a toothbrush specially designed for pets or a very soft, ultra-sensitive toothbrush designed for people. The bristles should be held at a 45-degree angle to the tooth surface and be moved in an oval motion. Scrub in the gum line, as this is where odor and infection begin. Gradually add special dog/cat toothpaste (flavored with meat or fish), but never use people toothpaste or baking soda, as both will upset your pet’s stomach.

Use the following process to clean the inside surfaces of your pet’s teeth:

1. Place your hand over your pet’s muzzle from the top
2. Gently squeeze and push his lips on one side between the back teeth (to keep his mouth open)
3. Pull his head back gently so his mouth opens
4. Brush his teeth on the opposite side
5. Repeat this process for the other side

The entire process should only take a minute or two. If your dog or cat continues to resist, try gently wrapping him in a large bath towel with only his head sticking out. Above all, avoid overstraining and keep sessions short and positive. With plenty of praise and reassurance, your dental sessions can bring the two of you closer---a closeness that won’t be marred by the perils of dog breath.

Home care can be improved by feeding your pet an unmoistened dry pet food and offering him hard biscuits after each meal. Both dry food and hard biscuits produce abrasion to help keep plaque to a minimum on the crown of each tooth.

Dental care of dogs and cats is one of the most commonly overlooked areas of pet health care; however, it is necessary to provide optimum health and quality of life. Diseases of the oral cavity, if left untreated, are often painful and can lead to more serious health problems including heart, lung and kidney disease.

AAHA encourages pet owners to regularly examine their pet’s teeth for signs of periodontal disease, such as brownish colored teeth; swollen, red, or bleeding gums; persistent bad breath; loose teeth or loss of teeth; pus between the gums and teeth; broken teeth and any unusual growth in the mouth. Reluctance to eat, play with chew toys, or drink cold water are warning signs of periodontal or gum disease. Consult your veterinarian if you notice any of these signs in your pet to schedule a dental exam.

There are two critical components of your pet’s veterinary dental care: oral examinations and dental cleanings. Veterinary dental care begins at the puppy and kitten life stage. As your pet ages, your veterinarian will look for developmental anomalies, the accumulation of plaque and tartar, periodontal disease and oral tumors. Veterinarians can perform a basic oral examination on patients that are awake. However, when a cleaning is required, your pet will need to be induced under general anesthesia wherein a thorough examination will be done prior to the cleaning. Dental cleanings performed while your pet is awake is not only dangerous for the team member performing the cleaning but dangerous to your pet as well.

Since there is an element of risk associated with any medical procedure, it is important that safety precautions are used. Among the many standards in the dentistry section, AAHA accreditation requires that veterinarians perform thorough examinations of the teeth and structures of the oral cavity in patients presented for dental procedures and only properly trained practice team members perform dental procedures. Additionally, AAHA Standards recommend that dental procedures are accompanied by pain assessment and appropriate pain treatment.

For more information on pet dental care, read our AAHA Dental Care Guidelines article.

Click here for an instructive video by the Cornell Feline Health Center on brushing your cat’s teeth.

Originally published on Healthy Pet.

February is Pet Dental Health Month

February is Pet Dental Health Month and we we urge you to bring your pet in for a dental appointment because cat dentals are $40 off and dog dentals are $50 off this month! Receive a complimentary nail trim following dental procedures and $2 off any dental product purchase of $20 or more. $5 off any dental purchase of $30 or more, excluding tax and dental diets. Keep your pets’ mouth fresh and disease free this February!

Pet of the Month: Dozer

Dozer came to us when he was 9 weeks old and with the help of our Veterinarian and he has been thriving! He is very smart, calm, quiet, and always eager to please. Now at 4 months, he is really growing fast and is full of energy! His ears and calm temperament grant him many compliments every time he goes on walks and he loves the attention.

6 Common Cat Health Problems

Cats are good at self-maintenance, but even your fastidious feline can't prevent some of the more common cat diseases and health issues. To help you care for kitty, here's a brief overview of six of the most common cat health problems.

Common Cat Health Problem: Vomiting

Vomiting is a very common cat health problem, with causes ranging from eating something poisonous or inedible (like string), to infection, urinary tract disease, or diabetes.

Symptoms are usually obvious, and include drooling and abdominal heaving. Vomiting can quickly leave your cat dehydrated, so if kitty continues vomiting or acts ill, call your vet right away. And, because it's hard for a pet owner to tell the difference between vomiting and regurgitation, collect a sample of your cat's vomit and take it with you to the vet.

Common Cat Health Problem: Feline Lower Urinary Tract Diseases (FLUTD)

About 10% of cats brought to the vet have feline lower urinary tract disease (FLUTD), which is actually a group of feline diseases with multiple causes.

Female and male cats can get FLUTD, and it often occurs in cats that are overweight, unfit, or who eat dry food. Stress, a multi-cat household, and sudden changes can all raise a cat's risk of FLUTD, and treatment depends on the type of FLUTD your cat has. FLUTD symptoms include:

• Straining to urinate
• Bloody urine
• Urinating in unusual places
• Crying when urinating
• Licking around the urinary area (often because of pain)
• Depression
• Dehydration
• Lack of appetite
• Vomiting

It's always an emergency if your cat can't urinate. Call your vet immediately if you suspect your cat has a urinary tract problem.

Common Cat Health Problem: Fleas

Fleas are a very common external feline health problem, but one you can treat easily. Signs your cat has fleas include:

• Flea dirt on their skin (they look like tiny black dots)
• Constant scratching
• Frequent licking
• Red or irritated skin
• Hair loss
• Skin infections or hot spots

Fleas can live for more than a year, and your cat risks anemia if the problem becomes serious, so be sure to treat your cat's flea problem and prevent future infestations.

Talk to your vet about which flea control would be best for your cat. Treatments include oral medication, powders, foams, and topical medication.

Common Cat Health Problem: Tapeworms

One of the most common feline health problems inside your cat, tapeworms live in kitty's small intestine, sometimes growing as long as two feet.

Symptoms of a tapeworm infection can be subtle, but may include vomiting and weight loss. The easiest way to tell if your cat has tapeworms is to look at its feces and around its anus. If you see small white worms, or what look like grains of rice or sesame seeds, your cat likely has tapeworms.

Treatment options include injection or oral medication, but because cats almost always get tapeworms as a result of swallowing a flea, be sure to handle any flea problems your cat has before tackling tapeworms.

Common Cat Health Problem: Diarrhea

Many things can cause diarrhea in cats, including hairballs, spoiled food, allergies, infection, liver disease, cancer, and more.

Symptoms of diarrhea are loose, watery, or liquid stool. Depending on its cause, diarrhea can last for a day, a week, or even months.

If your cat has diarrhea, offer kitty plenty of fresh, clean water to prevent dehydration, then remove kitty's food for no more than 12-24 hours. Take your cat to the vet if he or she still has diarrhea after a day, or immediately if you notice vomiting, dark, or bloody stools, fever, lethargy, loss of appetite, or if you cat is straining to defecate.

Common Cat Health Problem: Eye Problems

Eye problems in cats can be caused by a number of things, including conjunctivitis, cataracts, glaucoma, trauma, viruses, inflammation, and retinal disease.

A few symptoms that may mean your cat has eye problems include watery eyes, tear-stained fur, cloudiness, red or white eyelid linings, gunk in the corners of the eye, squinting, pawing at the eye, or a visible third eyelid.

Unless you know what's causing your cat's eye problems, there isn't much you can do other than wipe away any gunk with a damp cotton ball. After that, call your vet.

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SOURCES: American Veterinary Medical Association: "External Parasites," "What is Feline Lower Urinary Tract Disease?" 

Humane Society of Memphis & Shelby County: "About FLUTD. 

"Veterinary Partner: "Feline Lower Urinary Tract Disease (FLUTD)." "Vomiting and Diarrhea." 

Suevet.com: "Cat Vomiting." 

ASPCA: “Fleas," “Worms," “Diarrhea," “Top Tips for Keeping Kitty's Eyes Healthy.” 

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