September 2008 News Letter

 
Schools are back in session now.  Fall is approaching.  Hopefully the weather will start cooling down.  At least it wasn't as bad as it was last year. I am looking forward to Fall as I do every year.  It won't be long now.  I hope everyone has a safe and memorable Labor Day.

Greenies

This is an internet site that you can receive a free sample of Greenies Dental Treats for dogs and cats.

www.greenies.com/en_us/FreeSample/.


When Is It Time To See Your Veterinarian?
Pets for Our Good Health

In a research performed by the University Of Minnesota Zeenat Qurishi Stroke Research Center, it was discovered that owning a cat can reduce the risks of heart attacks in humans.  The 10 year study found that subjects with cats were 40 percent less likely to die from a heart attack then the subjects in a non-cat household.  Having a cat as a companion may help combat heart-harming stress and anxiety.  A similar study has been performed on subjects with and without dogs.  Given the health effects of a pet in your home, it is advisable to have your pet examined by your veterinarian, every 12 months if it is under 7 years of age, and every 6 months if it is 7 years or older.  Their good health and longevity can help and aide in your health and longevity.

Johannes Odendaal discusses his research in "Pets and Our Mental Health:  The why, the what and the how" (Vantage Press, 2002).  He found that petting a dog can release several hormones, such as endorphins, dopamine, and oxygen, which makes a person feel better and more relaxed.  He also found a decrease in the stress hormone, cortisol.  So by petting our dogs, it puts us in a positive state of relaxation, not unlike hypnosis and relaxation therapy does.  In caring for your pet, you are also giving yourself a purpose in life and something to look forward to.  These are reasons to keep your pet healthy with regular exams.

Algae Alert
Late summer and early fall are the times when you notice the blue-green algae on the water.  Some of the toxins this algae produces are toxic and deadly.  Not to confuse you, but this algae can also be brown, bright green, or red.  They normally bloom in fresh water lakes and ponds.  They can also be in the ocean or on land. When the harmful bloom dies, it releases toxins in the water.  It is always a good idea to bring fresh drinking water for you and your pet and prevent your dog from lapping water from the shoreline where the algae toxins generally are.  The toxins usually effect the central nervous system within 15 - 20 minutes after exposure.  Symptoms may include, weakness, difficulty breathing, vomiting, diarrhea, and convulsions.  If you think that your pet has been exposed to the algae or if your pet is exhibiting any of the above symptoms, take it to your veterinarian immediately.

Staff News
Dr. Ollis and Dr. Pennington, both recently attended C.E. courses.  Dr. Pennington  attended his continuing education in Birmingham, Alabama.  Dr. Ollis attended her continuing education in Savannah, Georgia.  They will share their new found information with the entire staff at our next staff meeting.

Dr. Ollis and her husband, Sam are expecting their first baby the begining of October.  The baby will be a little boy.  They are both very excited about the upcoming event.


Below is a coupon for $10.00 off a senior exam with blood work.  Remember, senior pets are at risk for many diseases and issues.  This exam and blood work can help us diagnosis any problems that may have arisen as your pet is aging. Remember, a pet's age is different than the age of a human.  They age much faster, 4 years to 1 of human years.

(Right click and save the coupon below, then print.)