Archive for the ‘Pet Safety’ Category
Thursday, December 27th, 2012
You may be asking yourself, “Why shouldn’t I order my pet’s prescription online? Good prices, direct shipping, what’s to lose?” Be aware that it may not be as good as it sounds though. Take the following into account before choosing where to purchase your next veterinary prescription:
- When your veterinarian prescribes a medication, he or she can dispense it in a safe manner, ensuring your pet has had any recommended screening performed, looking out for drug interactions, and keeping the product in an appropriate manner. This does not always happen with online pharmacies.
- The FDA says, “buyer beware” about online pharmacies. There has been much concern about the quality and authenticity of drugs that can be obtained online.
- If you have a problem or question, your veterinarian is able to address it directly. Not all veterinary pharmacies can claim the same.
- Websites that sell prescription veterinary products without the need for a prescription are breaking the law, plain and simple. If they are ignoring the law in this respect, where else are they cutting corners?
- Many drug company warranties such as those for heartworm prevention are invalidated when the product is purchased through such venues.
Talk to us or to your veterinarian. He or she truly has your pet’s best interest at heart. And you may be able to walk out the door with your pet’s medication for little more than ordering online.
Our on-site pharmacy is well stocked and able to fill prescriptions before you leave. We are also a compounding pharmacy which means that we can tailor your pet’s medication to their unique needs. This gives us the ability to adjust the dose and method of delivery or to offer solutions for pets that are difficult to medicate, such as adding flavors or ordering transdermal medications.
Talk to us or to your veterinarian about the options they offer. Sometimes convenience is not worth the risk, and your pet’s medications fall into that category.
Tags: animal care, animal care in elmhurst il, Elmhurst IL Animal Hospitals, Elmhurst IL Veterinarians, online pharmacies, pet care, Pet Pharmacies, pet safety, prescriptions
Posted in Fleas and Ticks, Heartworm, Pet Care, Pet Health, Pet Pharmacies, Pet Safety | Comments Off
Thursday, December 20th, 2012
Old Man Winter may be in town, but that doesn’t mean that you can’t enjoy the Great Outdoors with the family pet. If you are going to be spending time outside, however, there are some special precautions that must be taken in order to ensure everyone has a great time! Take the following into account when spending time in the elements this winter:
- Be sure that your pet has access to water. Just because it is cold out doesn’t mean hydration is not necessary. Don’t forget that many water sources freeze in the winter.
- Pay attention to the paws! Your pet’s paws may become sore or even cut when walking on frozen ground and ice. You might consider investing in some protective doggy boots if trekking for long periods in these conditions.
- Many ice-melting products are not pet-friendly! Use a pet-approved product for your own property and be sure to clean any potential contamination from your pet’s fur and paws upon your return home.
- Steer clear of antifreeze. Even a tiny amount of this sweet substance can be lethal.
- Be extra careful around frozen lakes and ponds. If your pet should fall in accidently, it may not be able to get out. Hypothermia is also a concern.
- Use extra care in icy areas for both you and your pet.
- If your pet begins to shake or shiver, it is time to end your outing. Just because your pet is wearing a fur coat doesn’t mean it can’t get cold. Just like you, the more active your dog is, the warmer it will stay. Your pet may benefit from wearing doggy booties or a coat.
- Try to target your outdoor activities for the warmest part of the day. There is a big difference between going for an hour long walk at noon and walking in the evening after the sun has gone down!
Don’t keep your pup all cooped up until Spring! By getting out, you will enjoy the season and keep you and your pet healthy and fit. Just be aware of weather-related dangers so that you can head outdoors worry-free.
Tags: Animal Care in Cold Weather, animal hospitals in elmhurst il, Cold Weather Tips for Animals, elmhurst animal care center, pet safety, veterinary care in elmhurst il, winter pet safety
Posted in Pet Care, Pet Health, Pet Safety | Comments Off
Wednesday, December 12th, 2012
Around the holidays our homes are filled with all sorts of objects that aren’t there the rest of the year. Many times this includes festive plants of all kinds. These plants often end up in the mouths of curious pets, especially puppies and kittens. Some may not cause any problems at all, but many cause side effects ranging from mild to severe. Here is the low-down on a few of the more common holiday house guests:
Poinsettia
While the poinsettia plant is perhaps the most infamous holiday plant, its reputation is not entirely deserved. Its extreme toxicity is largely an urban legend. The plant is mildly toxic and irritating to the mucous membranes. While it is unlikely to cause severe illness, it is probably best to keep this plant out of reach.
Mistletoe
The level of toxicity of mistletoe largely depends on the variety, but the berries of both the American and European variety cause stomach irritation at small doses. At larger doses, it can trigger much more serious problems (including low blood pressure, seizures, and disorientation).
Holly
Eating holly can result in severe stomach upset in dogs and cats. Signs that your pet has eaten holly include smacking of lips, drooling, head shaking, vomiting, diarrhea, and loss of appetite.
Lilies
Lilies are very popular around the holidays, but they are deadly for cats. Ingestion causes severe stomach upset, heart arrhythmias, kidney failure, and death.
Christmas tree
Don’t discount the tree! The oils and sap can be irritating to the mouth and stomach, which can lead to drooling and vomiting.
Tags: animal care in elmhurst il, animal hospitals in elmhurst il, elmhurst animal care center, Elmhurst IL Animal Hospitals, Elmhurst IL Pet Care Center, Elmhurst IL Veterinarians, pet care, pet care in elmhurst il, pet safety, Plant Safety, plants that are toxic to pets, veterinarians in elmhurst il, veterinary care in elmhurst il, vets in elmhurst il
Posted in Holidays and your pet, Pet Care, Pet Health, Pet Safety | Comments Off
Wednesday, November 21st, 2012
Happy holiday season to all of our friends, furry and otherwise! We hope that this is a happy, healthy time of year for you all. While we love to see all of you, we don’t want your pet to visit us unexpectedly during the holidays, so we are providing you with a list of the top five holiday foods that will land your pet in the hospital.
Top Five Holiday Foods That Can Land Your Pet in the Hospital
It’s the main ingredient in many seasonal treats, and your pets may want to indulge as much as you do. It is best, however, for our four-legged friends to avoid chocolate in all of its forms. The offending ingredient is theobromine which is found in the highest concentrations in baking and dark chocolate. Toxicity is dose dependent, which means that the smaller your critter, the less theobromine it will take to cause problems. At lower doses, pets will experience jitteriness and vomiting/diarrhea. At higher doses, much more serious effects can occur including increased or irregular heart rate, seizures, or even death.
Before you throw a piece of Aunt Louise’s fruitcake to Fido, think twice. Raisins and grapes can cause irreversible kidney damage in pets. Some animals seem to be more sensitive than others, and there is no way to know how sensitive yours is until it is too late.
Most people would never intentionally give their pet alcohol, however that glass of eggnog on the end table may prove to be too tempting for Rover to avoid. Alcohol ingestion can lead to low heart rate, hypoglycemia, seizures, even respiratory failure. Also beware of desserts containing alcohol and raw yeast-containing dough that can produce alcohol as it ferments.
If you have candies or sweets around that contain the artificial sweetener xylitol, know that even small amounts can cause a life-threatening decrease in blood sugar and liver failure in dogs.
Ingestion of people food, particularly fatty, rich foods can lead to mild to severe digestive upset, sometimes requiring hospitalization. Some animals may even experience pancreatitis, a sometimes serious inflammation of the pancreas.
Enjoy the holiday with your pets. Just be sure that the only holiday treats they get are pet safe!
Tags: animal care, animal care in elmhurst il, animal hospitals in elmhurst il, artificial sweeteners, chocolate, elmhurst animal care center, Elmhurst IL Animal Hospitals, Elmhurst IL Pet Care Center, Elmhurst IL Veterinarians, grapes, pet care in elmhurst il, pet safety, pets and holidays, raisins, toxicity, veterinarians in elmhurst il, veterinary care in elmhurst il, vets in elmhurst il, xylitol
Posted in Dogs, Holidays and your pet, Pet Safety | Comments Off
Wednesday, October 24th, 2012
We all want to include our pets in the festivities of the season. For many, this includes dressing them in the many cute costumes that are marketed for dogs and cats. Unfortunately, sometimes the concern for safety gets lost in these good intentions.
Some pets just do not tolerate wearing costumes. If your pet seems distressed, anxious, or upset when wearing his/her costume, it may be best to find an alternative. Festive collars, cute bandanas, or even holiday-themed bows can be just as fun. Also, be sure your pet’s costume allows your pet to move, sit, and breathe freely. Never leave your pet unattended in a costume and be sure all pieces of the costume are non-toxic and do not have any choking hazards. Find other ways to include your pets in the holiday celebrations that don’t include costume-wearing and make this Halloween as enjoyable for your them as it is for you!
Posted in Animal Anxiety, Animal Behavior, Halloween, Holidays and your pet, Pet Care, Pet Safety | Comments Off
Wednesday, July 25th, 2012
Summer is the season of parties- graduations, barbeques, family reunions. Your pet is part of the family, and it is only natural to want to include him/her in the celebrations. You probably know to keep your pet away from open flames, fireworks, chocolate, and bones. Here are a few lesser known (but just as dangerous!) hazards to keep your party animal away from:
- Corn cobs- These tasty castaways are very likely to become lodged in the intestine as they make their way through the digestive tract.
- Fruit pits (like peaches)- These are also likely to become lodged in the digestive tract. Believe it or not, cats are as likely to be affected by this type of foreign body as dogs!
- Skewers- These throwaways once held tasty treats, but now they are more likely to puncture your pet’s esophagus, stomach, or small intestine.
- Foil, plastic wrap, and string- These may be garbage to you, but they taste like dinner to your pet. Be sure your garbage is not accessible to Fido and Fluffy.
- Gravel or dirt- Grease and/or meat drippings can make these normally non-edible items extra tasty. Eating these in large amounts can cause your pet problems!
Please contact us if you have any questions.
Tags: animal care in elmhurst il, elmhurst animal care center, Elmhurst IL Animal Hospitals, Elmhurst IL Veterinarians, keeping your pet safe at barbeques, people food and dogs, pet care, veterinarians in elmhurst il
Posted in Nutrition, Pet Care, Pet Safety | Comments Off
Wednesday, July 18th, 2012
Frying eggs on the sidewalk? Here are some ways to help you and your pets enjoy the sun without melting!
- It’s all about the water! Play in the sprinkler, bust out the wading pool, or take a dip in the lake. Always make sure your pet is supervised and rinse him/her off with clean water after swimming.
- Enjoy a frozen treat. Check out special doggy confections like Frosty Paws, make a giant popsicle by freezing treats or toys into a huge ice cube, or head to your local ice cream joint- many have items on the menu for dogs.
- Pack a picnic. Put together some of (both of your) favorite treats and find a shady spot to enjoy. Don’t forget a bowl and fresh water for your pet.
- Outsmart the sun. Head out for a walk or visit the dog park before the sun fully comes up or at twilight during the coolest parts of the day.
It may be hot out there, but that doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy the great outdoors! If you have any questions, please give us a call!
Tags: animal care in elmhurst il, elmhurst animal care center, Elmhurst IL Veterinarians, hot weather activities for dogs, keeping your pet cool, pet care in elmhurst il, pet safety
Posted in Pet Care, Pet Health, Pet Safety | Comments Off
Wednesday, July 4th, 2012
While you are enjoying fireworks, barbeques, good friends, and fun times this holiday, don’t forget to be on the lookout for the following potential hazards for your pets:
- Neighbors & friends – Keep a close eye on your pets if you take them to parties or have people over. Just because you realize that bratwurst might cause digestive upset for your pet doesn’t mean your neighbor does. Also, unfamiliar visitors and crowds can make it easy for frightened or curious pets to slip out the door. Make sure that your pet has a “safe” quiet place to retreat to and be sure it is wearing identification with current contact information.
- Not-so-pet friendly treats – Do your best to keep your pet on its normal diet. Extra treats and fatty food can cause vomiting and/or diarrhea at minimum, and could even result in more severe digestive problems like pancreatitis. Some “people” treats such as alcohol, onions, chocolate, and grapes or raisins could even result in death.
- Fireworks and other hazards – Obviously fireworks and other direct flames can be dangerous to pets. Be sure to keep them secured and out of the way when such activities are occurring. But did you think about the loud noises a fireworks display may cause? Scared pets may hide or worse, try to run from the noise. If your pet has severe anxiety related to fireworks, talk to your veterinarian about potentially using a sedative to help get them through the holiday.
For those of you who are dealing with fireworks anxiety, be sure to enter our sister hospital’s Thunder Shirt sweepstakes!
Tags: 4th of july, animal care in elmhurst il, elmhurst animal care center, Elmhurst IL Animal Hospitals, Elmhurst IL Veterinarians, fireworks anxiety, pet health, pet safety
Posted in Anxiety, Pet Care, Pet Safety | Comments Off
Wednesday, June 27th, 2012
Disasters strike when we least expect them. We never think it will happen to us, yet every year tornados, fires, hurricanes, and floods strike locations all over the United States. If something like this were to affect your family, are you ready? It is National Pet Preparedness Month, and it’s the perfect time to ask yourself the following:
- Where would you go? Do you have a list of facilities or locations that you could take shelter at? Where would your pets go? Try to make a list of pet-friendly hotels, boarding facilities, or homes that would take your pet in case of an emergency.
- What would you bring? Everyone should have an emergency preparedness kit. Be sure to include your pets. Keep a carrier, leash and collar, food, water, and bowls in a designated location. Don’t forget any medications and a copy of your pet’s medical records.
- Could your pet find you if you became separated? Keep identification tags and microchip registration information current so that your pet can find its way home should you have to part.
We all hope that we’ll never have to deal with an emergency like this, but it does happen. Being prepared will give you peace of mind, and is the best way to ensure you and your loved ones will make it through as safely as possible.
Please contact us if you have any questions.
Tags: animal care, animal care in elmhurst il, Elmhurst IL Animal Hospitals, Elmhurst IL Veterinarians, keeping your pet safe in an emergency, pet preparedness, pet safety
Posted in Pet Care, Pet Safety | Comments Off
Thursday, June 21st, 2012
Can you guess what it is? If you guessed leaving your pet in a parked car, you hit the nail on the head. Even on a relatively nice day (think 85 degrees) your car’s interior can reach 102 degrees within 10 minutes and 120 degrees within 30 minutes.
Take into account your dog’s lack of sweat gland and inefficient heat exchange mechanisms (panting), and your pooch can be in a pickle in no time flat. Even leaving the windows cracked is not enough to make a huge difference.
Overheating can lead to permanent damage to major organs including the brain and may even lead to death. If you see a pet in peril this summer, be sure to try to alert the animal’s owner. If that is not successful, call 911. Often law enforcement or animal control can help.
As always, please contact us with any questions.
Tags: animal care in elmhurst il, dogs in cars, Elmhurst IL Animal Hospitals, Elmhurst IL Veterinarians, keeping your pet safe this summer, pets in hot cars, taking care of your pet
Posted in Pet Safety | Comments Off
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