Summer 2007 Newsletter

Effective immediately we have the ability to offer complete dental x-rays, just like the ones you get annually at your dentist office. Dental x-rays are invaluable for a higher standard of dental prophylaxis and treatment. Dental radiology allows to further evaluate your pets mouth and teeth as well as the supporting structures below the gum line. There are many conditions that require radiographs to help guide proper treatment. These conditions can include, but are not limited to, tooth fractures, periodontal disease (frequently resulting in bone loss requiring extractions) and evaluation of feline ondoclastic resorptive lesion, a common and painful condition in cats.

The dental x-ray unit allows us to take pictures of your pet’s mouth under anesthesia, and are ready for viewing within minutes, giving us instant information to work with to ensure the best possible course of treatment for your pet.

In addition to the dental x-ray unit, we are also very pleased to have added an ultrasound to our practice. A valuable tool, the ultrasound can assist in obtaining lab       samples as well as other basic imaging in-hospital.

 your pet:

Giardia

Recently we have seen an increase in the incidence of Giardia in our area. As a result, we are now recommending yearly Giardia screening along with fecal exams to ensure the health of your pet.

Giardia is an intestinal infection caused by a single-celled organism that lives in the intestines of infected animals. Recent research has shown that Giardia is present in up to 11% of the general population of pets, and as much as 50% of puppies!

 Giardia can be transmitted from pet to pet, through contaminated feed or water, and through the soil. Pets who attend dog-park, doggy day care or are kenneled are at higher risk for infection. Giardia can also be transmitted from infected pets to humans, so testing is especially important for those with young children who may be most susceptible to infection. 

 The most common symptom of Giardia is diarrhea of varying severity. However, many animals who are infected with Giardia show no symptoms, which makes routine testing even more important.  If your pet is diagnosed with Giardia, there are medications  we can prescribe to quickly eradicate the infection. 

We are currently offering a combination fecal/giardia test to your pet for  $67, a $12 savings from doing both tests individually.  For more information, or to set up testing, please give us a call!

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Summer

Come and join us for the 2^nd Annual Dog Days of Summer. A benefit for the Rancho Coastal Humane Society, the event is filled with dog-oriented activities for families and animal lovers alike.  In addition to dog-contests there will be live entertainment, a silent auction, raffle and vendor booths to find that special thing for your favorite furry friend!

We’ll be there, and we hope to see you there too!