6 Helpful Tips on How to Ease Your Pets Storm Phobia

6 Helpful Tips on How to Ease Your Pets

 Storm Phobia

Dog exhibiting anxiety during a Thunder Storm

           Do you find yourself checking the weather constantly or even dreading the 4th of July because you know your pet will be a ball of nerves? Well you are not alone. "Storm Phobia", "Thunder Phobia", "Noise Phobia" can go by many names, but it is unfortunately very common and quite a problem. In fact, in a recent report put out by NBC News quoting Veterinary Behaviorist Bonnie Beaver "Up to 20% of dogs of all ages and breeds suffer from noise phobias so severe that their people seek professional help for them." These phobias can range in severity and can affect our Feline Companions as well. Pets perceive these loud alarming noises as threatening, and the unpredictability and variation of sound accompanied by flashing lights makes your pet feel like they are under attack in a war zone. So no wonder they are terrified. So what to do?

Tips to Help Your Pets Phobia

1.  Compression Garments: Compression Garments such as a Thunder Shirt or something similar gentle hugs your pet creating a comforting feel and sense of security. These however don't work on every pet but it is something easy that is worth a try. These can be purchased online or at any pet store. 

2. Drown Out Scary Noises: You can lessen your pets anxiety by drowning out the noise. Use calming music such as Classical or Reggae which will help cover the noise and calm your pet. There is even specially designed sound therapy clinically proven to help our canine companions called "Though a Dogs Ear" or "Through a Cats Ear" for our feline companions.  You can also use white noise such as a fountain or fan. 

3. Block Flashing Lights: Try to block flashing lights by covering windows or putting your pet in a safe, comforting area away from the flashes. Even turn on lights to decrease contrast. Create a sanctuary, a little secure area with blankets, music, and even something to get your pets mind off of things such as giving them something to focus on, a toy, bone, a puzzle, etc. 

4. Don't Force Your Pet: If your pet is afraid and hiding don't pull or drag your pet from their secure area. This can make matters worse not to mention, a fearful pet may act out and bite unintentionally. You can try to softly coax your pet out, but if they wish to stay hiding leave them be. In addition, never force your pet to "confront their fears" and force them to go outside. This is absolutely the wrong way to handle this situation and will most certain escalate the problem. 

5. Calming Pheromones: Calming Pheromones, such as Adaptil, give off odorless comforting messages that only dogs (Or Feliway for Cats) can sense. These messages are mimicking the comforting sensation a Mother Dog gives off to her pups. These Pheromones can be used in many ways. It comes in a spay, so you can spray blankets, bedding, crates, or even a bandanna to put around their neck. It comes in a plug in that allows the pheromones to continually circulate the environment. Wipes to wipe down areas such as floors, crates, or even or any other surfaces, as well as a collar. 

6. Speak to your Vet: Talk to your veterinarian about any troubles your pet is having with Noise Phobia. Your veterinarian can offer advice and many behavioral solutions. And if severe enough your pet may need anti-anxiety medications such as Trazadone or Gabapentin to help relax them and keep them from getting too upset.  But never give your pet any medications without consulting a veterinarian first. 

Dog looking to her owner for comfort

It can be heartbreaking watching your pet shake with severe anxiety and fear over Thunder Storms and Fireworks. We as humans know there is nothing to fear and that these storms or celebrations will soon pass, but your pet doesn't realize this and feels like an attack is underway.  Owners can feel helpless in trying to get their pet to understand that these noises can't hurt them. But following these tips can really aid in helping your pet get though these situations with less fear, anxiety and stress. 

For more information check out our website at http://harveyanimalhospital.com/

How to Care for a Bearded Dragon

How to Care for A Bearded Dragon

Bearded Dragon

Bearded Dragons are actually known as the most "Dog-Like" reptile, due to their docile nature. Because of this, more and more people are keeping them as pets and they are certainly growing in popularity. But is a Bearded Dragon the right pet for you?

Personality

Although Bearded Dragons can be territorial and even aggressive with other reptiles and should be housed alone, they are quite friendly and sociable with humans. They have a great temperament and are usually calm and tame by nature. They don't mind being touched or handled, unlike other reptile species which is the main reason many people are keeping them as pets. However, they can still scratch or bite so always use caution and handle your Beardie gently. They will also display when they are scared or threatened. They will puff out their beard and lay flat with their mouths open. You might even notice the color of their beard will change black. These are signs your Beardie is upset and on the defense, so its best to let them calm down when they have reached this point.

Bearded Dragon

Habitat and Housing

Bearded Dragons need lots of space. A full grown Beardie needs ideally a 75 - 120 gallon tank. Not only do they need adequate space for growth but they also need specific heat and UV lighting to regulate their body temperature. They need a heat source on one side for basking (about 90 - 100 Degrees F)  and the other side of the tank should be cooler for hiding (around 70 - 76 Degrees F). Improper temperatures or humidity can cause severe illness in your pet.

The bottom of the tank should be lined with reptile carpeting or outdoor carpet or something similar for safety and easy clean up. You can also use paper toweling or other soft cloths but be sure to stay away from cat litter, wood shavings and even sand. These mediums are often accidentally consumed and have been known to cause intestinal blockages, which is a veterinary emergency.

It is important to include different things in the tank to make your Beardie comfortable and happy in its environment. Be sure to  include branches and rocks for climbing and basking as well as a cavernous place to hide. Non-Prickly succulents and non toxic plants can also add enrichment to the Dragons surroundings.

Proper Bearded Dragon Habitat

Diet

Bearded Dragons require an extensive menu to meet all their dietary needs. They need protein in the form of crickets, and many types of worms, such as meal worms, king worms, horn worms and wax worms. They can even eat pink mice as they mature and grow. Be sure the prey you feed is appropriately sized for your Bearded Dragon and that you do not let pray linger for longer then 10 minutes to prevent injury to your pet.

Bearded Dragons also need a wide range of fresh fruits and vegetables in their diet. They need greens such as escarole, parsley, mustard greens, collard greens, dandelion to name a few. As well other vegetables such as green beans, carrots, parsnips and a variety of squash can also be fed. Its important that your Beardie gets a "salad" daily with a variety of leafy and vitamin rich vegetables. Fruits can also be fed such as as Berries, mango, papaya, banana, cantaloupe, etc. But be sure to avoid lettuce, spinach, avocado, and citrus fruits.

And of course, fresh cool water needs to be provided at all times. Shallow bowls or dishes are ideal, to allow for easily accessible drinking.

Bearded Dragon

Like most exotic pets, Bearded Dragons require a lot of care in the form of habitat specifics and diet. However, their gentle nature and wonderful temperament make them the ideal reptile pet. They are a long commitment having a lifespan of roughly 10 - 14 years. But If you are willing to take the steps needed to care for them properly, they make great and interesting companions!

A Pug Puppy and his Bearded Dragon Friend

Keep All Lilies Away From Your Kitties

Keep All Lilies Away From Your Kitties

Spring is Springing and Easter is right around the corner. It's a time where the sun
is shining and flowers are blooming. But did you know there are many flowers and
plants that can be toxic to your pet?

Its true! Common plants such as Daffodils, Daisy's, and Tulips can be very
dangerous to your pet. And one of the most common and most dangerous,
especially to our feline friends, is the Lilly! Just a taste of the petal, leaves,
the pollen or the water from the vase and be deadly. There are many different
species of lily and most all are highly toxic. Listed below are are few of the most dangers species.

The top 8 most deadly species of lily are as follows:

- Asiatic lily – including hybrids (Lilium asiatica)

- Day lily (Hemerocallis species)

- Easter lily (Lilium longiflorum)

- Japanese Show lily (Lilium speciosum)

- Rubrum lily (Lilium speciosum var. rubrum)

- Stargazer lily (Lilium ‘Stargazer’- a hybrid)

- Tiger lily (Lilium tigrinum or lancifolium)

- Wood lily (Lilium philadelphicum or umbellatum)

***For a full list of poisonous plants visit: https://www.aspca.org/pet-care/animal-
poison-control/toxic-and-non-toxic-plants ***

Tiger Lily - Highly Toxic

If you suspect that your cat has been exposed to a lily (or any other poisonous
plant), take them to the vet immediately. Lilies can cause severe kidney failure and
are potentially lift threatening. So take their exposure seriously. Most of the time you will not notice
symptoms until its too late.

Fresh flowers and potted plants are a beautiful Spring time staple. But BEWARE
of their dangers! Many plants and flowers are poisonous, not just lilies. It is best to keep your pets safe and keep  plants and flowers away from your pets!

Why Does My Pet Have Bad Breath?

Why Does My Pet Have Bad Breath? 
Bad Breath Blues 

Are you avoiding puppy smooches and kitty kisses because your pet has bad breath? Smelly breath can be very off putting but don't overlook it. Bad breath can be an indication of a problem with your pets health and most likely their mouth. We see the Dentist once a year and even more if there are problems and your pets should too. Oral health is very important for your pet and if not taken care of can not only be painful but can cause other problems as well. 

Does my pet need a Teeth Cleaning?

The answer is YES! Our pets should be receiving annual dental exams from their veterinarian to make sure things are in tip top shape! They will be able to notice if a full dental cleaning is recommended by examining the mouth and the state the teeth and gums are in. (If the animal is cooperative of course.) But if you notice anything abnormal with your pet at home let your veterinarian know right away. Below are a few things you can look out for:

Signs of Oral or Dental Disease in Dogs and Cats:

-Bad breath

-Tarter Build up

-Red gums 

-Loose Teeth or discolored teeth

-Drooling abnormally

-Dropping food or toys

-Pet does not want mouth touched

-Bleeding

-Loss of Appetite or weight loss

If you notice any of the signs above alert your veterinarian right away. Your Veterinarian will recommend a Dental Cleaning for your pet and possibly, further procedures like tooth extractions if needed.

This cats owner noticed a bad odor coming from her mouth. This kitty was in need 

of a dental cleaning in which the odor indicated severe gingivitis and too decay resulting in 

tooth extraction. Note the Severe Red gums

What happens during a Pet Dental?

Your pet will need to be fasted prior to your appointment and will need to have blood work prior as well. Since your pet is put under anesthesia for this procedure, your vet will want to see recent blood work results to be sure your pets internal organs are functioning as they should. If everything looks good on blood work they will place an IV catheter and begin to induce anesthesia. Once under anesthesia, the technician will begin scaling or scraping off tartar build up and will check for gingivitis. They also check for pockets, cavities, and will be able to see things under the gum line such as bone recession by taking dental radiographs. If any of these things are noticed, the veterinarian will preform the necessary tasks which may include tooth extraction. The teeth are then polished and the pet is sent to recovery. 

You can get a behind the scenes look at the procedure by going to the AVMA website: https://www.avma.org/public/PetCare/Pages/Pet-Dental-Care.aspx

Before and after shot of a dog pre and post Dental. Tarter and 

staining are cleaned visually as well as bacteria below the gum-line

What about Anesthesia Free Dental Cleanings?

Theoretically this sounds like a great option right? Cleaning my pets teeth without having to put them under anesthesia? Wrong! Actually anesthesia free dental cleanings are not very beneficial to your pet at all. This method ONLY scrapes the front surface of the tooth, it does not get to where it matters, under the gum line. 

According to the American Veterinary Dental Collage (AVDC) "Scaling (scraping surface of the tooth with an instrument) the plaque and tartar from the outside surfaces of the teeth does not remove the plaque and bacteria from beneath your pet’s gum line and does not decrease the risk of your pet getting periodontal disease. Consider this, the same level of “gross” build up you see on your pet’s teeth, is also thriving beneath their gum line where you can’t see it or the damage it’s doing. Cleaning and scaling below the gum line is most important because it’s where periodontal disease is most active. This can’t be done without anesthesia."

Not to mention it is very stressful to you pet! We all know we can't tell our pet to open their mouth and "AHH" as we work in their mouth. So if awake, your pet will need to be restrained as they scrape the surface of the teeth. This can be extremely scary and even painful for your pet. It is much more humane and beneficial to your pet to put them under anesthesia so the tasks can be preformed efficiently and stress-free. 

To learn more on Anesthesia Free Dentals please visit:

http://avdc.org/AFD/reasons-not-to-choose-anethesia-free-pet-dentals/

Oral health is very important to your pets overall health. Not only can it be painful for your pet but also constantly swallowing bacteria from decaying teeth can affect your pet systemically as well. Keep your pet happy and healthy by keeping their oral health in mind!

Whats Your Pets New Years Resolution?

Whats your Pets New Years Resolution?

Now that the holidays have passed and we have rang in the New Year, many of us have declared a New Years Resolution. And for many of us that New Years Resolution is to loose weight and be healthier. But what about our pets? If your dog or cat is chunkier then they should be maybe you should include them in your New Years Resolution to be fit as well. 

An alarming 58% of cats and 54% of dogs in the US are overweight or obese.  We all love our pets and they look so cute begging for table scraps or meowing for extra treats but we are killing them with kindness?  Much like humans carrying around extra weight is not healthy for them. Here is a list of a few of the negative effects extra weight can cause. 

*It can be painful. Muscle and joint pain make it harder for your pet to get around and increases risk of osteoarthritis.

*It can compromise the respiratory system. Causing your pet to have a harder time breathing

*Increases surgical and anesthetic risks

*Increases risks of disease, such as heart disease, hypertension, Diabetes, liver disease, etc

*Deceases the immune system making them more prone to sicknesses

*Increases risks of cancer

For starters be sure that you are accurately measuring the amount of food your pet should have in a day.  Which depends on many things. The size and breed of your pet, the type of food you are feeding and if there are any extras like treats or food toppers. Most foods have a weight recommended chart on the back of the bag to help you determine the amount of food that should be given in a day. However it is always a good idea to speak to your Veterinarian about specifics.

 If your pet is over weight you may want to consider eliminating treats or choosing a low calorie option instead.  Many veggies are OK for your pets to eat and can be given as treats such as carrots or green beans. They can even be frozen and be given as a cool treat in the hot summer months.

Exercise is very important too, if your pet is able to of course. Going for an extra walk, playing catch in the back yard or going to the dog park are great activities for your dog. It is however, little more tricky to get your cat to exercise but it can be done. Playing with your cat with toys or a laser pointer can be great kitty exercise. Feeding your cat in an area that they have to go up or down stairs or placing their meal in multiple areas can get them moving more.  Supplying cat trees and other cat safe furniture is another great idea. 

Treat balls are a fantastic idea for both cats and dogs. Using a low calorie treat or even part of your pets regular kibble. A treat ball will slowly dispense 1 or 2 treats at time after its batted around a bit. Which will encourage play and exercise. 

Of course Regular vet visits are very important for your pet to keep them in tip top health. Your Veterinarian will be able to suggest appropriate food options and amounts as well as exercise suggestions catered to your specifics pets needs.

Its a New Year, and setting a New Years Resolution can be a great motivator for people to get fit. But don't forget your pet if they are overweight also.  Its a New Year, a Fresh Start, and time for a happier healthier you and a happier healthier pet! 

Holiday Pet Hazards

Holiday Pet Hazards

The holidays are among us, everyone is busy shopping, baking, and

preparing for celebrations. But whether you celebrate Christmas,

Hanukkah, or any other holiday there are many things you need to

be careful with when it comes to your pet.

For starters, Holiday Decorations. Christmas trees, tinsel, lights, lit

candles, ribbon etc are all very tempting to your pet. Chewing on

electrical cords or lights can cause burns, lit candles can cause burns

and are a potential fire hazard. Tinsel and ribbons can be viewed

as a fun toy but if ingested it can cause intestinal blockages causing

your pet to need surgery. It is best to keep all decorations away from

your pets to ensure their safety.

Another staple of the holidays are festive plants. But most of these

plants such as Poinsettias, Holly, Amaryllis, and Mistletoe to name a

few are highly toxic to your beloved pets. Just a lick can cause reaction

to your pet with symptoms including vomiting, diarrhea,

hyper salvation, seizures, and some can even be life threatening . It is

very important that you keep all of these types of plants away from your

pet. If you suspect that your pet may have ingested a holiday plant call

ASPCA Poison Control immediately http://www.aapcc.org/ 1-800-222-

1222.

Everyone always looks forward to chowing down on the delicious

holiday food and desserts! But many food items can be very toxic to

your pet. Chocolate is highly toxic as well as Xylitol found in many sugar free baked goods. Onions, Garlic, fat, bones, alcohol etc are all "No Nos' for your pet. Just because we can

 digest things doesn't mean our fuzzy friends can. Their metabolism is different then ours and even

though we can handle eating these things they cannot. So don't give these food items to your pet and of course keep things out of reach off counter tops or even in garbage's that your pets can get to or, You might find yourself at the Animal ER with your pet this Holiday.

(You can read more about Holiday food dangers in our Thanksgiving blog. http://harveyanimalhospitalblog.blogspot.com/2017/11/)

The Holidays are fun but can also be stressful, for us and our pets.

They can be confused by all the "fuss" that is going on around this time

of year. And it can be very stressful when strange guest arrive at our

home to celebrate. If your pet seems stressed by strange house guest or

all the "hustle and bustle" of the holidays, It may be a good Idea to

seclude your pet in a quiet area where they can rest peacefully.

The Holidays are a joyful time of year. Just don't forget about your fuzzy friend. By following these steps you can ensure that you and your pet will have a safe holiday season. Now have fun and enjoy! Cheers!

Thanksgiving Pet Safety Tips

Thanksgiving Pet Safety Tips

            The Holidays are upon us and its such a fun and festive time of year. Its a time that brings friends and family together to celebrate and of course feast! But the holidays pose many dangers for your pets as well. Here are a few things every pet owner needs to be aware of this Thanksgiving.

*Kitchen Safety - The kitchen is going to be the busiest room of your house on Thanksgiving. Everyone is scrambling around cooking and preparing the big meal. This is an easy place for accidents to happen. A curious and hungry pet can get into trouble fast. Your pet can get into many things such as the garbage and eat things that it shouldn't. (This is also a hazard after the big day when the tasty left overs have been discarded. So watch your garbage carefully, even after Thanksgiving day. It may be best to just take the garbage right outside away from the pets reach!) They can jump up on counter tops and not only help themselves to the tempting food, but they can also knock over sharp objects or hot pots and pans causing burns and injury. If this happens your pet will need to see a Veterinarian immediately. Since there are so many potential dangers, it is best to just keep your pets out of the kitchen on Thanksgiving Day.

*Food Dangers - When the whole family is indulging, its hard to leave our pets out of the feast. But be careful, there are many foods that pose potential dangers, such as toxicity. Our pets metabolism works differently then ours, so foods that may be safe for us to eat are not safe for them. Even things that you may not suspect such as onions or large amounts of Nutmeg, which are holiday cooking staples, can be very toxic. Some foods can also cause conditions such as pancreatitis. Pancreatitis is inflammation of the pancreas caused by rich and fatty foods that our pets can't properly digest. Here is a short list of items to avoid this Thanksgiving. If your pet eats any of these items, they need to see a veterinarian immediately.

-Turkey Skin, Bones, Brine, Fat, or Gravy
-Herbs/Spices such as Nutmeg
-Onions
-Garlic
-Mushrooms
-Grapes
-Raisins/Currents
-Nuts
-Chocolate
-Desserts - Some desserts contain xylitol which is a sweetener that is very toxic to your pet
-Alcohol
-Corn Cobs
-Bread Dough
-Tea/Coffee

In addition to these items you must be aware of things such as aluminum foil and plastic wrap. When cooking you use many different items and things such as aluminum foil, plastic wrap, parchment paper, even bags, wrappers and other packaging that smells like food is very tempting to your pet. But swallowing items like these can cause intestinal blockages. Which is a veterinary emergency. For a more extensive list please visit https://www.aspca.org/pet-care/animal-poison-control

*Pet Stress - Its wonderful to see family and friends for the holidays. However all the chaos from the additional house guest can cause your pet stress. Explain boundaries to your house guest and always monitor children around your pets. If your pet is too stressed, it may be a good idea to seclude them in a quiet room away from the holiday crazy so they can relax and feel secure.

Thanksgiving is a wonderful holiday that everyone can enjoy. Just be sure to follow these Thanksgiving Pet Safety Tips so your and your pet can have a fun and safe Thanksgiving Holiday!