June 28, 2009

 Traveling

  It's the time of season for traveling!  

The best idea for traveling with pets is thoughtful PREPARATION!

Ensure camp areas approve of pets and if there are any regulations.

If traveling across the border, have proof of an up-to-date Rabies Certificate (and that the vaccine is up-to-date).

Some kenneling facilities have certain requirements as to what vaccines each lodger must have- find this out PRIOR to you leaving so that there is enough time to schedule a vaccine appointment.*

Airline regulations are precise and need to be abide by, phone your flight agency that you are booked with to find out said regulations and prepare long BEFORE you travel. Each airline is different, depending on the size of the dog/cat and your destination. ex- a travel sedative**

If you are driving, plan your destination very precisely, where will you be stopping along the way? Who will take the dog for a potty break? What hotels are you staying at and do they allow your pet?                                            

DO NOT LEAVE ANY ANIMAL ALONE IN ANY VEHICLE. Even parking the car in the shade with the windows down will still put the car at 10-20 degrees hotter than the temperature outside. This is VERY dangerous and heat exhaustion must be directed to a veterinarian.

Travel with your pet's own personal belongings (toys, dishes, blankets) to make them feel as comfortable as possible. Always bring bottle water if you are driving, and always bring their food in a sealable container. Apply your parasite preventative 1 month prior to travel.*** Another thought is to keep a record of their vaccine history and even a copy of medical history if your pet has any chronic ailments, DON'T FORGET THEIR MEDICATIONS!

No matter where you do travel, keep in mind courtesy - clean up after your pets! Never assume that it is appropriate to let your dog run up to other dogs and people, you are a visitor.

**Any traveling sedatives are to be prescribed through and EXAM prior to dispensing. Do not give an animal Gravol without veterinary discretion and dosing.

***Topical flea, tick, monthly preventatives are by prescription only, the pet has had to been seen within the year as an annual visit. We will need an up-to-date weight to dose correctly. Heartworm medication (if traveling South) again, needs to be prescribed and have a negative result on a Heartworm Test.                 

For any questions on the above medications, discuss with your veterinarian your destination, the duration of the trip and your needs as well. (examples include - Revolution, Advatix, Advantage Multi, Sentinel, Interceptor, Heartguard)    

Summer is around the corner!

 Notice to clients and furry patients:

Please be advised that ALL pets are to be on a leash or in a carrier before entering the clinic.

Canines

Some dogs become defensive and stressed when being in the presence of other dogs.  Having them on a leash allows you to keep them close to you, keep retractable leashes short and locked. Your dog may not be aggressive towards others, but another dog may react in defense when confronted.

If you have an easily stressed dog, you can keep your dog in your vehicle or walk with them outside. Check into reception normally, we will notify you when an exam room is ready.

We understand that some dogs have gone through rigorous training to stay at your side, or have always stayed close with out a leash. But it is for the safety for your pets that we have this policy.

If you do not have a leash, we provide slip leads to use during your visit with us.

 Felines

Most cats enjoy the security of being in a carrier with a familiar blanket, toy or towel. You are more than welcome to have you cat on a harness or leash if they are comfortable with active dogs barking and other loud noises.

When dropping off your cat for any surgery, we ask that you have them in a carrier the morning of, or when you come to pick them up. It provides a safe haven for the ride home.

If you do not have a carrier, we provide for purchase hard sided and cardboard carriers.

 The waiting room is a very happy place for pet owners to meet and also pets to meet. But please be aware and courteous of others! Thank you!

Spring has Spring, slowly but surely!

With melting snow brings hidden dangers. Ensure that you make a thorough effort of clearing all feces, garbage and deceased wild animals from your yard and dispose of properly. Pets ingesting such things can bring on upset stomach, or in the case of wild animals, intestinal parasites or diseases.

 Clinic Scrapbook

  You may have noticed our clinic scrapbook in the waiting room. Did you know that your pets can be part of it? There's always room, and it's growing quickly! Please bring a photo of your pet to reception. Include your pet's name, age, breed, and quick "bio" and if you'd like, include your name. All entries are accepted and will be posted as soon as possible. If you bring an 8 1/2" x 7" (standard binder sized paper) page decorated as you would like with the above, we can also post that in our book. Join the fun! Everyone enjoys to see new entries!

 Employment Opportunities

 **EMERGENCY CONTACTS**

On Call/After Hours - call Nurses' Registry (807) 623-7451

Be advised that it is at the Doctors discretion to charge a fee for telephone consults after hours. After hour office visits will be charged as well.

Pet Poison Control Hotline - 1-866-897-8049*

ASPCA Poison Control Centre - 1-888-426-4435*

*Please write down the CASE NUMBER given from the above numbers for the veterinarian to use for future reference. Have a valid credit card ready as a $35.00 - $60.00 consultation fee will be applied for these services.